How To Stop Frustrating Yourself By Using A Good Bass Fishing Tackle System!

It's frustrating isn't it, when your bass fishing tackle looks like a "mish mash" and you need something in a hurry because the bass are biting furiously and your hooks are all over the place tangled in your line. It's an angler's nightmare but one which can be so easily avoided with good tackle management practices.

Organising Your Bass Fishing Tackle

As a child, I often used to watch in wonderment at my old man before every fishing excursion; he was so organised that there wasn't an item in his tackle box which he wasn't aware of. He always spent time before we left organising everything neatly into an arrangement so when he needed it, he didn't have to waste valuable time looking for it.

To be honest, it drove me mad at the time because it seemed like a chore but years later, I've now realised how important managing bass fishing tackle really is.

Did You Know?

It's important to change up your baits when they are not producing. For example, when crank or spinner baits are producing lack lustre results then consider using the old reliable jerkbait. Yes, it has rescued many a fishing mission because of it's ability to find a fish in nearly all conditions.

Important Bass Fishing Tackle Questions

Finding a good storage system for your tackle is easy; there are so many quality products on the market. However, before you go out and spend money on a tackle box or soft binder system, decide firstly what is going to suit your angling activities. Do you like to spend hours on end on the water or do you simply prefer to "blow out the cobwebs" for a couple of hours to get your fishing fix?

Let's take a look at a few important aspects of your overall decision in bass fishing tackle management:

- How much tackle do you like to have on hand? A large storage system is no good if your a short burst type of angler as a bulky system will be more of an inconvenience than anything else. The reverse applies to a busy fisherman.

- How accessible is your tackle? Can you reach and locate it without having to fumble around looking for it and wasting precious fishing time?

- Organize your tackle in such a fashion so the most regularly used components are more easily accessible than those which aren't.

- Plan your fishing trip. This is definately connected with good bass fishing tackle management. If you are fishing a particular area or from a bank or boat, then organizing your tackle to compliment your fishing decision will cut down on the unnecessary waste of both time and needlessly taking equipment you don't need.

While the storage system is vital in good bass fishing tackle management, just as important are the various tackle organizers available on the market. Hooks in hook organizers, weights in weight organizers, baits in bait organizers...you get the picture. Organizers are ideal in larger storage systems such as the bulkier tackle boxes or simply keeping them in an area of the house such as a garage away from the children.

From traditional tackle boxes to the new soft binder storage units, managing tour tackle shouldn't be a chore; it should be a pleasure particularly if you are serious about your bass fishing.

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Want a trouble-free fishing experience? You need to get your bass fishing tackle in order! We tell you how plus, become a bass fishing success with news, tips and techniques at:http://www.bassfishingheaven.com

Grand River Smallmouth Bass Fishing has Excellent Results with Platform Rafts

Smallmouth bass fishing on the Grand River with platform rafts has added a new enjoyment to the sport of fishing in Paris. Normally the riverbanks cannot be walked because the land is privately owned and restricted. This forces fishermen to wade the boulder bottom and wrestle river current when angling for smallmouth bass in the Grand River. The use of platform rafts resolves the wading problem.

With platform raft fishing fisherman now have access to miles of shoreline with excellent small mouth bass fishing all along the Grand River. People of all sizes and ages can enjoy a time together with friends or families to fish as they drift down the Grand. The platform rafts allow anyone of any physical condition the opportunity to get out and fish some of the best spots for small mouth bass.

For families wanting a day of actually catching fish, the platform rafting is a great way to travel together. The rafts offer a safe experience that allows children the freedom of movement and togetherness. There is the joy of no mosquitoes or black flies as the rafts drift through a wilderness of forest, fresh springs and wildlife.

The platform decks normally accommodate two fly fishermen standing or 4 people seated with a guide steering in the back. Those that spin-cast can sit in deck chairs elevated above the water level to easily see striking fish. The best thing about raft platform fishing is the speed of the raft... it allows excellent casting opportunities at every pool.

These Grand River smallmouth bass platform excursions are with experienced guides that know the fishing spots well. The expertise of the guides increases the number of strikes and fish caught. The guides in the Paris area conduct trips on two sections of the river. The upper Grand from Glen Morris to Paris is "catch & keep" or the lower Grand from Paris to Brant Park is zoned "catch & release".

The reason the smallmouth bass fishing has improved is due to the aggressive Fish Management Plan implemented in 1995. Along certain areas of the river special angling regulations have been introduced to protect the smallmouth bass. Anglers must use barbless hooks, no live bait and do catch and release. This restricted zone is called Exceptional Waters between Paris and Brant Conservation area and produces excellent large fish.

July 1st in Southern Ontario is the start of the smallmouth bass season on the Grand River. It is normal to catch 40 to 50 bass in a four hour drift in the Paris area. The fish range from small to under 24 inches with lots of action. At the start of the season late afternoon-evening trips produce some of the best results. For visitors arriving on the Grand without fishing gear and tackle, the Big Catch Bait & Tackle shop in Paris will rent all equipment plus a loaded tackle box for $20.

The Grand River is only one hour west of Toronto. It is easily accessible by the 401 or 403 Highways. For those wishing overnight accommodations there is the countryside River Ridge B&B in the area or the elegant Arlington Hotel. For those wishing to camp, some of the fish guiding companies in the area have secluded campsites right on the river.

Smallmouth bass fishing on the Grand River is exceptional... but so is the scenery and abundance of wildlife. The closeness of the Grand River allows people to get up in the morning... drive an hour for excellent fishing... and be in their own bed at night.

Garth Pottruff grew up along the Grand. He has watched this river go from carp to an abundance of smallmouth bass and migratory rainbow trout.

Garth does some guiding for smallmouth bass fishing on the Grand River. He loves watching the sheer delight of fishermen as they discover the excellent quality of fishing on Southern Ontario?s largest river. For more information on platform raft fishing in the Paris section of the Grand River visit: www.grandriverrafting.ca

Smallmouth Bass Fishing - Showing The True Ontario To The World?

Smallmouth bass are found from picturesque glacial lakes of the Canadian Shield to Ontario's Great Lakes shoals and in thousands of creeks, rivers, and lakes which lie in between.

Soft-plastic twister-tail, tube, and shad jig bodies on 1/8- to 3/8-ounce heads are the most common smallmouth lures. Good jig colors are black, smoke, purple, amber, yellow, and white. Bounce jigs along bottom, while retrieving or drifting with the wind over potential hotspots. One trick is to allow a tube jig to settle on bottom, then release 20 to 40 yards (18 to 36 m) of line. As the boat drifts, nudge the bait along, as you feel for a strike. This technique is particularly useful in clear, deep water for spooky smallmouth. Smallmouth is particularly fond of crayfish, especially soft-shells that have just molted.

Largemouth tactics that workout in other places, work equally effective in Ontario also. Fishing varies from flip-and-pitch techniques around docks, matted weeds, shallow, and stumps, to exciting top-water action on poppers, jerk baits, and floating plastic worms. Although some southern lakes or rivers are turbid, clear water is normal in Ontario. Bait casting tackle spooled with 12- to 20-pound line is ideal around heavy cover for largemouth in stained waters. Light spinning tackle, though, is often necessary to fool largemouth in clear water on sunny days. In these conditions, thin, yet strong, braided or fused line and small plastic worms, grubs, or jigs can jump-start the action, while allowing you to handle fish around cover. Live bait is effective for both species. Leeches, minnows, and juicy night crawlers rigged beneath a float or with split-shot on the bottom will draw Ontario fishing lodges, camps resorts and outfitters. It's the greatest vacation in Canada! Whether you want to casually do some fishing or try some more serious angling, our province is an angler's paradise.

Nowhere else can boast such a catch. Think of it: The largest fresh water lakes in the world, a huge diversity of fish, and Walleye in abundance (over 4.7 million kg caught every year). What's more, there's an entire range of experiences that allow you to "go remote" at fly-in camps in the Northwest and Northeast, or cast a line on day-trips in our Playground. Come here for all your vacation, equipment, and news and weather information. Come equipped, buy, or rent at any one of the outfitters throughout the province. There are boats to charter, guided trips, fishing packages, or be your own guide and take yourself to a place where there's just you and the fish. Discover the riches of a tackle and bait shop, the hub of commerce in any small lakeside town. Ontario at its best and do check it out.

Ontario has the very best Smallmouth Bass fishing in the World with some areas having really good Largemouth Bass Fishing. Bass Heaven's many lakes, rivers and streams are here for you to enjoy.

Temperatures colder or warmer than these will generally cause smallies to slow down their metabolism, making them tougher to catch. Smallmouth bass also inhabit a wide range of water - there are "deep" and "shallow" bass and they are a schooling fish - meaning if you catch one there's a good chance there are several others in the area. Bass generally stick close to the bottom or near structure like humps and saddles. As ambush predators, bass need cover to feed successfully so casting accuracy and presentation are key elements to consider when fishing for them.

Live or artificial baits both work well - night crawlers seem to work particularly well as do tube jigs and small spinner baits. Bring a variety of tackle and experiment to find what works best under the particular conditions you're fishing that day.

Abhishek is an avid Bass Fishing enthusiast and he has got some great Bass Fishing Secrets up his sleeve! Download his FREE 135 Pages Ebook, "How To Become A Bass Fishing Pro!" from his website http://www.Fishing-Masters.com/88/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Bass Fishing Techniques

Learn More About Some Techniques on Bass Fishing

Splitshotting can mean the difference between taking a cold boat ride and a great day of catching fish. Invest the time to practice this technique and you will have more fun bass fishing in the cold winter months. This and other Bass Fishing Techniques are required to master the art of bass fishing.

If you put the time in, you will soon learn how to master the fall and winter bass fishery in British Columbia. Your efforts will be rewarded with exceptional smallmouth bass of trophy sizes. Remember though it takes roughly 8 to 10 years for a smallmouth bass to attain a weight in excess of 5 lbs., so conserve your catch by practicing responsible catch and release methods.

Well the cold weather has put the bass into their winter patterns. Forget about rip baits, spinner baits and crank baits. Now is the time to break out the finesse gear. One of the most common techniques for getting bass to bite during this season is splitshotting. It is a fairly straightforward technique and requires little investment in terminal tackle.

The hardest thing there is to teach a bass angler learning to splitshot is detecting the bite. The bite will vary according to the activity level of the fish. There will be times when they pop the bait hard and you will know immediately that they are eating the bait. Other times there will be a soft, almost imperceptible tick and then nothing. And finally there is the dreaded pressure bite. The pressure bite will take two forms.

The first way to describe a pressure bite is you will feel a slight resistance to pulling your line forward. This is somewhat like hooking a soft, spongy rubber band. The second pressure bite is when you lose contact with the bottom.

A bass has picked up your lure and is just following along with your forward movement. This is why it is so important to maintain bottom contact. Once you realize that you've lost the feel of the weight against the bottom, and your depth hasn't changed significantly, you have to put two and two together and get ready to set the hook.

The preferred hook set for this technique is called a sweep set. Once you have detected a fish holding your bait drop the rod tip towards the fish, reel down to the point of feeling resistance (or just shy of that point) and 'sweep' the rod horizontally away from the fish.

If the rod loads up good and you're sure that you've got the hook in the fish just fight him to the boat. If you set the hook and it didn't feel solid you may want to set the hook a second time. The drag on your reel should be set tight enough that it doesn't give on the initial hook set. But it shouldn't be set so tight that a larger fish can't take the line if needed.

British Columbia, Canada's foremost sport fishing web site containing BC saltwater fishing, BC freshwater fishing, maps, fishing tackle news, sport fishing destinations, fishing tips and techniques, editorials, articles and much, much more. Inside you'll find everything you need to tackle trophy fish of all varieties including salmon, halibut, steelhead, trout, bass, and sturgeon to name a few. They also had their own approach and techniques regarding bass fishing.

Since the best spot to catch bass is never on weeds and cover, use weedless lures when possible. This will cut down on the expense of losing lures.

Bass exist in a wide variety of temperatures, but tend to get inactive during a cold front. Fish swim deeper during the sunniest part of the day. Sun seems to adversely affect bass fishing. Seek out shady spots or deeper water with cover. On cloudy or overcast days try shallower waters. In cold water, retrieve your bait slower. Fish tend to react slower in colder temperatures.

Freshwater Fish Identification is another technique used by anglers. So whether you're watching a consummate professional angler check-in fish during a tournament, or listening to an on-air running commentary on a television fishing program, you know that he'll be speaking the truth of the matter.

Bass fishing is becoming a very popular sport across the world. However many people still struggle to land "THE BIG ONE". At Bass Fishing Techniques we have put together a lot of Bass Fishing Secrets to help you land the "BIG ONE" and be the envy of your friends.

Managing Bass Fishing Tackle

At first it might not seem like such a big deal. However managing your bass fishing tackle can be very important to your fishing trip. Remember when the bass are striking you may need something quick. If your tackle is in a shambles and all messed up with other tackle then that could make the difference between a great and bad day. What really sucks is this is entirely avoided by managing your bass fishing tackle.

I remember when my boys were young. They used to get so frustrated at the amount of time I would take before a trip organizing my tackle. I would make sure everything was in its place, nothing was tangled and I knew where anything I wanted was at a glance. Now that my boys are grown up they too realize the importance and now we even go as far as getting things ready in the winter time.

Something you do want to prepare for is how long you are going fishing. You see it really sucks to travel heavy if you don't have to. My boys and I quite often will head down to the river just for a couple hours in the evening. For this we have just a small tackle box with the basics we might need. However when we do go on our longer trips like 3 to 7 days, yes we take every piece of fishing equipment and tackle we have. Also if you are only going for a couple of hours in the evening you want to utilize every minute you have. So packing lightly allows you more time when you get to where ever you are going.

Of course if you go to your local tackle store you will be amazed at the amount of product available today for all your tackle needs. There is every kind of tackle box you can think of available to you that you can think of. Of course sometime budget does have to come into play but I would suggest getting everything you can afford for managing bass fish tackle. There is no way you will ever regret good equipment and a little pre-planning.

Dale and Blair are involved in many different internet ventures. Mostly they take pride in their blogging efforts. Now, since your reading this you must be a fisher person so quit wasting time and go find out how you can turn your fishing adventures into super star status. You can check out both our fishing blogs at http://fishingneeds.blogspot.com/ and http://fishing-jackie.blogspot.com/

Helpful Advice on Bass Fishing Tackle

Fishing is one of the most popular sports these days. The thrill of the sport attracts people of all ages and every corner of the planet. The bait usually determines the type of fish that is caught and style of fisherman.

Fishing is does not only belong to those who live along the seashore. Most people in cities now are more interested to go fishing, especially during weekends when they tend to have their rest after a long week of pressure at work.

Fishing is not considered as source of living again, people tend to make it as hobby and sport activity in their life. People are willing to spend extra money just to buy the necessary equipment for fishing. Some would even make collections of baits, fishing rod and even the boats that they prefer to use when they go fishing.

There is a lot of information about bass fishing that you can find on the internet. It will be useful when talking about fishing as a hobby or just to give you finer information about it. A lot of boxes full of lures and baits can be found when you go for bass fishing. This equipment may have been used once or twice and sometimes anglers will suddenly realize that these lures had served them many times.

Bass Fishing needs a lot of calculation, such as weather conditions, seasons, types of body of water which would be better in a natural lake and reservoir. All this consideration will help you to determine where the fish can be found, perfect fishing poles, and time to use the right lure.

You may want to take some advice first from someone who has experience in bass fishing. Do that before you walk into tackle shop again and spend some more of your hard earned money. You would not spare any regret in the end if this is your motivation for most of your lure purchases.

Find another helpful advice and tips about fishing, read in Halibut Fishing.

Mexico Bass Fishing in Lake Guerrero

Lake Guerrero is a man-made lake that is among the hottest bass fishing spots in Mexico. This lake was first stocked more than 18 years ago with Florida bass, and from time to time it gets re-stocked to keep the lake alive.

Guerrero is a lake that gained international renowned thanks to the high number of trophy-class largemouth bass caught in it. Large bass live in there, and the vast amount of flooded timber makes this lake a true paradise for anglers. Even after all these years since it was first stocked, it continues to produce record-class bass each and every year. Many anglers leave with stories of catching up to 100 bass a day!

One thing you must know about fishing in this lake, is that Lake Guerrero's bass are aggressive, so you'll need to bring good quality equipment, resistant to these fishing conditions. There are a variety of lures that work well, but guides in the area always recommend you to use lizards as bait, as the bass are used to them.

Lake Guerrero is great lake to fish throughout the year; however, the best season for taking a trip must be between October and June, where there are better temperatures and rain is not so common. During peak fishing conditions you'll find a lot of bass will congregate around old tree stumps. You'll have a great time finding the "sweet spots" on the 97,000 acres area of the lake.

There are different resorts offering you top-of-the-line accommodations in this lake. For the convenience of tourists, most of these lodges and resorts pick up their guests at Harlingen, Texas and bring them to the hotel via the highway on comfortable vans. Over the last decades, bass fishing lodges and resorts have invested money in bringing the best to their guests.

If you are currently planning a trip to Lake Guerrero, be sure to book with anticipation. Peak seasons are always booked well in advance, especially since Mexico has started to become one of the best countries for fishing in the World.

Lee Berke invites you to learn more about Mexico bass fishing, along with the best information on making the most out of your trip. Mexico fishing locations are varied and offer a paradise for all anglers!

Peacock Bass Fishing Tips - Challenging and Addictive Sport

If you haven't tried peacock bass fishing before, you should! It's considered as one of the most difficult, and challenging experiences reported by even some of the most experienced of bass fishermen. Read some tips on how to approach peacock bass fishing here.

Not understood by many, peacock bass fishing truly tests your ability to cast, retrieve as well as boost skills related to bass fishing. Their ability to fight and be extremely aggressive can even put the most skilled fishermen to shame. So, if you're thinking of organizing your next fishing trips for this special breed, here are some simple tips that can get you ready.

Where to look?

The reason why it is not so poplar yet is because they can only be found in South and Central America only. One of the most popular spots for this is The Amazon Basin down the Amazon River. There are popular establishments such as the Araca Camp in Brazil that is specifically built for peacock bass fishing, surrounded by the astounding Araca Mountains, it makes a great vacation spot as well for family trips.

Bass fishing tackle

When choosing for tour equipment, you have to take into consideration the aggressiveness of these fish. You'll need stronger rods to withstand their strength without snapping your rod. Look for a high modular graphite rod at the weight of about 10 to 11, and about 8 feet long. You'll also need to have larger flies that are wind resistant. Underwater obstruction can be commonly found in this region, therefore make sure your flies can handle the pressure.

Generally they can weigh 20 pounds or more, it make perfect sense to use the correct lines and reels. Consider using topwater lures when fishing for them, peacock bass usually feed all time of the day and therefore you do not have to worry about feeding pattern. Almost all lures can be used to fish a peacock bass, it's more important that you know how to work the lure in this instance.

Peacock bass fishing is challenging as well as rewarding because of the difficulty, better yet your trip will be down to the Amazon River, which will make it more memorable due to the amazing and exotic location.

Bass fishing is more than just mere luck, this challenging and addictive recreational sports is now enjoyed by more and more people! Get started today if your new, or further refine your bass fishing skills to appreciate this sport more.

Read more big bass fishing related articles here!

5 Great Bass Fishing Tips

1. Keep Your Engine Looking New

You should see the stares I get when I pull out of the water. Oh no, it's not the engine or the boat that people stare at, it's me wiping down the engine.

By doing this to your engine with a dry cloth while it's still wet you can eliminate embarrassing exhaust and water marks before they dry up and become hard to remove. Not only does it save you time cleaning it at home with chemicals, which could harm your engines outer shell, it also helps keep it looking brand new.

Whether you have a small, medium, large or a high performance engine on your boat why not keep it looking new!

2. Prevent Rust

Tackle now a days doesn't come cheap so why let rust ruin your investment. The trick to stopping rust from forming is letting the lure or hook dry on its own before storing it back into its rightful place. Rust spreads from one hook to the other if stored damp and when its time for your next outing, well you know!

When changing up tackle I keep a dry little plastic container in my tackle storage compartment in the boat. I drop the tackle in the container so that it has plenty of time to dry. At the end of the day I sort through them all making sure that they are all dry before putting them back in their rightful place.

It may sound tedious to some, but when you consider a good quality hook costs a dollar and up then why would you put damp tackle in with the dry tackle letting rust spread like the plague!

3. Catch More Than One Bass

When you notice a Bass quickly swimming off with your bait chances are there is more than one! I strongly believe that when competing for food Bass will take the bait and swim away with it in one quick motion when schooled together! Keep working the same area....what can it hurt! I have been rewarded time and time again!

4. Go Deep During Cold Fronts

During Tournaments I have been confronted many times by cold fronts and believe you me it can be frustrating! One thing that I have learned through the years is that when cold fronts come in I go deep!

The reason we do better in deeper water during cold fronts, in my opinion, is that the Bass down deep aren't as susceptible to the sudden climate change as the shallow Bass are. The only thing dictating what depth to fish is the wind. When a strong wind is a part of the front then I go even deeper simply because deeper water will 'turn' later than shallow water.

We don't have a crystal ball to see the Bass fishing future, but at the very least we can try something that has worked in past outings!

5. Clear Water Blues

Clear water calls for different; well you might say unorthodox methods of catching weary Bass. Hey, if you can see them in the clear water amongst the weeds then they can surely see you!

Now remember, you see them so, the good thing is you know darn well they are there! So what I do is cast or flip my bait, combined with a fluorocarbon leader, a good far distance from the boat and let it hit the water with the loudest splash I can muster. Stealth, in this case, is irrelevant. Think about it...if the Bass are in there and not spooked by natural noises such as Cray fish, wounded bait fish, dropped minnows from fighting gulls or just a frog, they will come and see what made the ruckus. Better yet, if the bait just happens to land in the Bass's line of view, it will smack it thinking that it's just Mother Nature in the vicinity and not a Bass Boat!

Visit Nic DiGravio site at http://www.probassfishing.ca

Starting Bass Fishing

Novices at large mouth bass angling are starting out in a thrilling and gratifying sport. This particular activity is indeed addicting because it requires techniques to find and hook bass and has the exhilaration of battling them after they are hooked.

In case you are not used to bass angling you don't need to spend a fortune on equipment to get started. An effective set up of fishing rod, reel and fundamental equipment can cost you below $50, and it'll end up being all you want to educate yourself about basic principles and hook several fish. You will also need mono filament line and a variety of different tackle. You can often locate low priced lure packages at under $10 in a tackle shop.

After getting the tackle all set start by going to any nearby pond and try out angling in the shallows. This allow you to become accustomed to the gear and get the touch for the way to cast the new rod. Once you're ready its time to go in to a greater depth areas and focus on more substantial bass. Fish close to drop offs and submerged trees to encounter the really large fish.

You will find different methods you must make use of with regards to the time of day you are fishing for bass. Early in the day as well as early evening large mouth bass are going to be found in not so deep areas feeding on bugs as well as little animals. Throughout this period small surface tackle and bait tend to be best. During the late morning as well as early afternoon large mouth bass transfer to the chillier depths, often concealing and waiting until finally it cools down to come out and feed. At these times you will have to use bottom lures such as jigs or crank bait. Toss them to the deepest regions of the pool and retrieve them little by little to provide the bass an opportunity for taking the lure with little additional movement.

Don't make the mistake of setting your hook to rapidly each time a bass strikes. In the event you do not wait for a bass to totally grab the bait inside its jaws you will simply achieve ripping the lure away and spooking other bass in your neighborhood. Wait until the fish has taken some slack following the hit just before setting the line. At this point the hook should be securely set in the fish's jaw and you will be able to battle and bring him in.

Thank you for reading this post. If you want to get a lot more angling suggestions and strategies please visit my site, I discuss topics like fishing lures, fishing plugs and strategies to find big fish.

Just Bitten by the Bass Fishing Bug? A Basic Equipment List

Bass fishing for many begins the first time they get that hit and proceeds from there to become a lifelong avocation. If you have just discovered bass fishing then it's time to start accumulating your bass fishing tackle. Over the course of your bass fishing lifetime you will probably have many rods and reels, literally hundreds of lures and a wide variety of storage boxes. However, the first gear you buy need not be expensive or abundant as long as it suits the needs of a novice bass angler.

Rods. As you become more experienced you may find that you want several rods of varying lengths and made out of different materials. A good first rod for a neophyte fisherman is generally five and a half to six feet long and made of graphite, fiberglass or a graphite/fiberglass blend. Longer rods may give more reach in casting but they also require more nuance. Look for a balanced, medium weight rod. As the term implies, that is a rod which has its weight evenly distributed from end to end.

Reels. Once you have chosen your rod, select a complimentary reel. Consider a rod and reel combo package. Many beginning fishermen shy from this simple answer to tackle selection; after all, buying stuff is half the fun. Still purchasing an inexpensive rod and reel bundle allows you to get the feel for bass fishing gear before making a large investment. If you have decided to make separate purchases, check out the spincast reels. They have fewer line tangle problems and provide smooth casting and retrieval. Most also allow for a wide variance in lines and lures.

Lines. Most rod and reels will recommend the line weights that harmonize well with them. In general, a 10# line will hold up well in the vast number of situations you'll encounter. As you become a more sophisticated angler you will learn the many factors that go into proper line selection. Strength, resistance to breaking, stretch, diameter, even color are all important in making more sophisticated line choices. Don't worry about those now though; just buy a high quality line.

Lures. Choosing the right lure for the right area and the right bass is key to successful bass fishing. If you are going with experienced fishermen or with a guide, they will be your best resource for information on what lure or bait to pack. The number one bait out there though is the humble worm. Stock up on these in a variety of colors and pick up a few inexpensive spinnerbaits.

Tackle boxes. Here again many new fishermen go for the fully featured models, the more drawers and trays the better. Quite often though the more places you have to put things the more ways you have to lose them. Start out with a simple tackle box with a large open bottom and a few small trays.

Now you're ready for the most fun of all: Bass fishing. Hit the water, be safe and good luck.

If you want to catch more bass you need to come over to http://www.AllAboutBassFishing.com. We provide many tips, tactics, articles and more to help with your next bass fishing adventure. Whether you fish for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, peacock bass, or any other type of bass we can help you.

Going Out With The Perfect Bass Fishing Gear

One of the most important aspects of bass fishing is obviously finding the right bass fishing gear for wherever you'll be hunting those lunkers. Some bass fishing gear is necessary pretty much no matter where you're fishing, while other bass fishing gear will depend on your specific situation, place, and preferred techniques.

No matter where you're heading to, some bass fishing gear you'll need includes a minimum of two identical rod and reel combos. This allows for easy replacement if something goes wrong with a rod or reel, and everything is interchangeable. There are two ways to go with the test line: one is to have all the bass fishing gear interchangeable, meaning both reels will have the same pound test line, and the other way is to have one reel with a heavier line to cast heavier lures, while another rod has a lighter test line for lighter lures. Don't take the terms "lighter" and "heavier" too far. With most bass fishing gear 10# test line and 16# test line, for example, will do just fine. You don't want really weak line, or bulky stuff meant for muskies.

The best tackle box is medium sized. Huge tackle boxes are too big and bulky and get in the way, while a small tackle box might not allow you to take all your lures. You never know when that odd spinner or chartreuse rapala will be the perfect bass fishing gear for any given day. Best to be prepared. This also allows you a wide array of baits, from large and small plastic worms and worm hooks (with appropriate sinkers) to rapalas, spinners, and anything else that works where you are. Obviously the best bass fishing gear differs for area. With tons of lily pads and shallow water, the rubber frogs and surface lures are the way to go, while in deeper lakes relative free of weeds you may choose an area to jig or choose to cast using rapalas. On larger lakes, trolling is another option.

Aside from tackle boxes, tackle bags are another option when searching for the right bass fishing gear. Tackle bags are basically similar, being a nylon bag that is set up for tackle boxes to slide in and out of. If you're a fisherman who loves to bass fish, but also occasionally hears the call of bluegill or that trout that keeps mocking you, a tackle bag allows you to organize several tackle boxes, then change them up by sliding them easily in and out of the bag.

These are just a few of the options for good bass fishing gear, but having these in some combination is sure to increase your chances of success.

Johns website help beginners and advanced bass fishermen to catch a boat load of fish. Please visit the site for more info... Fishing Tactics

Sea Fishing Tackle Review: Greys G-Series Spin 9' Bass Rod

As a serious angler, I'm always looking to learn about the fish I'm seeking. I recently began sea fishing for bass, but not before I did a bit of research on the species. Did you know that, according to Wikipedia, a vast Internet encyclopaedia, the name bass applies to several different species of game fish in the order Perciformes (perch-like fishes)? In fact, Wikipedia tells us that the word "bass" comes from the Middle English "pers," which means "perch." Bass are found in both fresh and salt water, but I much prefer the sea. So, now that I've gone on a bit about the fish, I'd like to share some sea fishing tackle tips. Tip number one? The Greys G-Series Spin 9' bass rod gives me exceptional results.

About the Greys G-Series Spin 9' Bass Rod

This rod is great for shore bass fishing using a variety of lures, including deep diving plugs and surface poppers. The weather often doesn't stop me when I'm out for bass, so I do appreciate this rod's quality Greys rods are great for extreme conditions. A word about Greys: This company is in the forefront of fishing tackle design. They have invested years of research and development in creating leading edge products using the only best materials. There's a comprehensive range of superior Greys rods available for every type of fishing imaginable. Whether you prefer a conventional or heavy duty model, Greys rods are worth a serious look.

More Details and Specifications

Another feature I like about this Greys G-Series rod is its compact size that in no way compromises performance. Greys is a major name in the fishing tackle industry and the G-Series line draws upon all the company's expertise to deliver a full-featured bass rod for an extremely affordable price that's under ?65.00. I find myself reaching for this rod when I'm planning to use heavy lures. It has a powerful, progressive action that works in a variety of bass fishing venues and conditions. I especially appreciate all the quality touches and sturdy fittings found on this Greys rod, but honestly, I wouldn't expect any less from this legendary brand. This is undoubtedly a superior quality build with a high power to weight ratio. It has features you'd find in much more expensive rods, such as a graphite reel seat. Backed by Greys unconditional lifetime warranty, you'll find yourself reaching for this rod often.

Sea Tackle Recommendations

Pair this rod with one of the reels in the Abu Garcia Cardinal 300 line for the ultimate bass fishing gear set-up. For lures, consider a sidewinder sand eel pearl, an ultra-realistic lure with inbuilt holographic inserts. The lure is fitted with Mustad hooks and it creates an irresistible vibration in the water. Another good choice is the Yo-Zuri crystal minnow suspender with 3D eyes and raised moulded gill plate.

When you're shopping for sea fishing tackle, a quality rod like the Greys G-Series Spin 9' bass rod is a great foundation piece.

I've been fishing since i was 9 years old and nothing soothes me more. To get great deals on sea fishing tackle in the UK I happily suggest KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are extremely well informed and are always very helpful. Check out their online fishing tackle store for more details or call 01656 722448.

Freshwater Fishing Tackle Basics

Those looking to get into the world of fishing will need to have some basic elements that you will need to keep in mind when you are considering freshwater fishing tackle. These are the items that are going to help make your experience more enjoyable and help you to catch fish easier. It is because of this that you will want to ensure that you have some of the basic fishing tackle items like weights, rods and bait which are essential for the avid fisherman.

Perhaps the most important part of the freshwater fishing tackle ensemble is the fishing rod. This unit consists of your reel, fishing line and the physical pole you hold. Generally, you will want to have a fiberglass or carbon fiber unit for freshwater fish. For trout and similar stronger fish, you are going to want to ensure your rod is on the thicker end, with a large hook on the end. In addition, you will need weights to get deeper into the water as well.

When you are looking at fishing tackle, you will want to be sure that you take the time to look over the fishing line and hook. These items play a strong role in terms of freshwater fishing tackle. Of course, depending on what you are looking to catch you might not need too much. Carp and bass for example are going to require light lines that have smaller hooks on them. While trout will require that you have a thicker line that offers a larger hook. Keep in mind the type of fish you want to catch before you set out and purchase your fishing tackle.

While you are looking over your different options for a pole, you may want to consider that both bass and trout could potentially use some of the same tackle as well. In some cases, you can use the same hook for bass that you would use for trout, but it would not be possible to go the other way because of the demands of both fish.

Bair is also very important when you are looking at freshwater fishing tackle. You need to consider the items these fish would find and then offer it to them on your pole. Some people prefer to use artificial bait, while others prefer to use live bait. For freshwater, you will want to have grubs and worms as most fish will be attracted to these items. Be sure you if you use an artificial choice, you don't go to the extreme as you could potentially scare off your potential catch.

Clearly, you will see that fishing tackle is not only important when you are looking to head out fishing, but also the fact that you need to have equipment that is designed for the particular species of fish that you are looking to catch as well. There are some variances that you can take into consideration, just be sure you consider the largest fish you want to be able to catch in the process.

Nicole Roberts
At HookAndHuntShop, you will discover an amazing selection of low priced and excellent quality freshwater fishing tackle.

Considerations About Bass Fishing Tackle

Bass fishing has long been popular throught the southern region of the United States of Amerca. In fact, the enthusiasm for this sport has expanded far beyond the borders of the south. Now people enjoy fishing for bass throughout the world. It has actually become both a competitive sport and favorite family outing in many places.

Bass fishing is a unique outdoor experience. No other type of fishing is quite like bass fishing. No other type of fishing has such loyal, even addicted, enthusiasts. Bass fishing is lot of fun. It is relaxing, entertaining, and practical. Some people even find it to be a very addictive hobby.

Tackle for Bash Fishing

Special tackle is available just for bass fishing enthusiasts. Bass fishing tackle is generally a good bit larger what is used for other types of fishing. Both swivels and weights are identifying characteristics of bass fishing tackle.

Choosing Tackle

The type of tackle that is used depends on how and where an individual is engaging in fishing. For example, if you're using a plastic worm as bait, you will need a hook and weight to keep the worm submerged in the water. The size of the weight to be used is determined by the water's depth and conditions as well as what the wind is doing.

Choosing Line

The type of fishing line a bass fisher will use is decided by looking at how clear the water is and whether there are many things to hang up the line in this piece of water.

Darker water generally calls for fourteen to twenty pound test. Each fishing situation is unique, and has its own nuances and particular needs.

When a plastic worm is used in the popular Carolina style, a line of greatr thickness might be utilized, at least up to where the weight and swivel are located.

The line on the hook, however, should not be so heavy. A lighter hook line will let the bait float a little above the bottom.

The time to use this Carolina style rig is when fishing an an area characterized by grass covering the botom of the water. This technique allows the worm to float just above the level of the weeds so the fish can see it.

In either case, there are certainly many complexities involved in making your final choies.

Be Prepared for Everything

It is important in bass fishing to know what kind of fishing adventure is planned. Many people like to be prepared for all fishing situations and opportunities. Sometimes bass fishing enthusiasts will choose to have more than one rod set up for different fishing scenarios. This way they can easily change setups as the situation warrants. They never have to miss an opportunity due to lack of preparation.

There are many choices available in bass fishing tackle, [http://www.knowbassfishing.com/Midwest_Bass_Fishing/] and the extensive choices offer you many different options for your bass fishing.

Choosing Your Reel

You can't be good at bass fishing without having a good reel. The actual reel to be used is another important decision that bass fishers have to make. You might use spinning tackle or a bait caster with an open face. It really just depends on the type of fishing you plan to do and where you plan enjoy your fishing adventures.

Bait casters can be difficult for novice users to work with. However, they are an excellent and very reliable option for experienced users in their favorite fishing location. Selecting both a rod and reel that you are comfortable with is of utmost importance. You will work most effectively with your bass fishing gear when you feel comfortable with it and you get accustomed to using it. Examine all of your options to find the best fit for you. No one but you knows what feels the best for you. With so many choices, there is sure to be a perfect option for you.

You can also find more info on Bass Fishing Resorts [http://www.knowbassfishing.com/Bass_Fishing_Resorts/] and Early Spring Bass Fishing [http://www.knowbassfishing.com/Early_Spring_Bass_Fishing/]. Knowbassfishing.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Bass Fishing.

Bass Fishing Tips - Buzzbait Tactics For Big Bass

I first started fishing with buzzbaits back in the late 1980's on the east coast in small lakes and ponds in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. In the beginning of the buzzbait craze, nobody in these areas had ever fished a buzzbait in any of these waters. They were virtually untouched!

When I arrived at the lake with one of the few buzzbaits that were available, a single blade 3/8 ounce, from Bass Pro Shops, it was like fishing virgin water! On the first cast i landed a 6 pound largemouth that just exploded on the bait in broad daylight! That day I caught more than 15 trophy class largemouth bass on this bait until it was bent beyond use! I quickly went out and tried to find another for the next day and low and behold found one at a local tackle store. I headed out that night to another local lake, Killens Pond, in Dover, Delaware.

I fished open water, flats, pads, near an Island, it didn't matter! It was like a magic bait! I caught several bass that were in the 5 pound class with one going almost 8 pounds. (Not too bad considering the state record bass is just a shade over 10!.)

I repeated this for years until the word got out and this craze really caught on. Not that it didn't work anymore, but the heyday of the trophy bass almost every day and night was definitely over.

Since that time, I have fished a variety of waters all over the united states, from Delaware to California, and have taken big bass on buzzbaits, but now there are a few tricks that will help you land some of these bigger bass again in many of these same waters.

I found that the bass have seen most every style of buzzbait that you can think of at this point, work ed in most of the traditional areas in the traditional ways. The trick is to use different baits than most anglers are using in a different way and at a different time.

I start out at 10:00 p.m. and I leave when everyone else is arriving at the lake. I start by using a large buzzbait in black, with a black paddle tail type plastic trailer, with a trailer hook if it is possible, depending on the cover. When this bait doesn't produce in the traditional areas, I move away from the back creeks and channels, and go into the open flats where one of more green type of vegetation exist. I stay in about 1-2 feet of water and cut the area up like a piece of pie making literally hundreds of casts in a 360 degree circle working the bait in a steady motion, and alternating to small changes in cadence and giving it little hops when the steady ready doesn't produce what I want.

If this does not produce a decent bass over 5 pounds in about 45 minutes to an hour, I switch to a small, double buzz, and switch colors to black and red with no trailer. This is usually a 1/8 ounce or a 1/4 ounce bait. I use a spinning rod for this with a swivel to reduce line twist. I also use a braided line, in 40 pound test, like Power Pro on a glass or composite rod, and just hesitate a little bit longer before setting the hook.

When all these tactics fail, I go to a Deps buzzjet or a chatterbait, and work it as fast as possible on the surface in the same areas and by the dams.

There are several companies that offer top quality buzzbaits that will produce for you that are not available in a wide variety of stores so that most average anglers won't be using them. They are located at Trophy Bass fishing Videos and tips website in the Tackle Store.

Try some of these baits and tips that they offer there and watch some of the over 300 instructional videos and I am sure that you will be saying, "Man!, That Buzzbait Still Works!"

Steve vonBrandt
Sponsored by: GYCB (Yamamoto),Okuma, TTI-Blakemore, and Ambush Lures.

Steve was the owner of a bass fishing Guide Service in Wilmington, Delaware, Anglers Radio in Delaware and New Jersey, and Delaware Tackle in Delaware. He is a tournament angler and freelance outdoor writer. He has over 40 years of fishing experience in the Northeast and California. He has fished lakes, ponds, and rivers from 1962 until the present. His new website offers over 350 bass fishing instructional videos and discount tackle at World Record Trophy Bass Fishing

http://delawaretrophybass.com

Sea Fishing Tackle Review: Daiwa Exceler X Fishing Reel

The Bass is the prized catch for a saltwater angler. Its population is widely distributed throughout the UK coastline, although mature fish concentration is still greatest in the lower half of England. They range from the 6 inch "babies" to the tough 3 pounder that are still strong in numbers in that region. Still, the bass seems to be the most popular game, but be warned though. Bass have thick, muscular bodies and are sure to put up a fight. Now, the question is, are you prepared for this? How confident are you with your current fishing tackle? This is the reason why Daiwa, a company of more than 50 years is committed to serving you. Here is some information on its esteemed sea fishing tackle, the Exceler X Fishing Reel.

Key Features of Daiwa Exceler X Fishing Reel

Daiwa's Exceler series of reels is known for its magnificent versatility and superb performance. This is excellent sea fishing tackle for the bass or pike. Now, it is made even better, with 3 new sizes available this year for the X and S specifications. It has a moulded body and rotor for that added precision and increased durability. Truly a fine work of craftsmanship and design, it has a wider ABS2 spool and an almost 5:1 ratio that maintains the power and stability of the previous versions. By the way, the gear ratio describes the spool revolution per turn of the handle. So this indicates the how fast your retrieve is. With one turn of the handle, the largest model, EXC-S4000 can wind 86cm of the line. With this fishing tackle in your hands, what else do you have to fear?

More About Daiwa Exceler X Fishing Reel

Daiwa's Exceler X Fishing Reel has a machine-cut handle for the X and a one touch handle for the S. Moreover, it is equipped with Daiwa's Airbail Reel Technology. The Airbail is an ultra-light, hollow yet very resilient and sturdy reel handle. It has no protrusions and snags the line when spinning thereby preventing the line from getting tangled on the handle, apparently a difficult problem to resolve in the past. Not only that, this sea fishing tackle also has Daiwa's exclusive Twist Buster 2 line roller system which also reduces line twist problems on reel spinning. In addition to that, the Twin Buster, which is powered by CRBB (Corrosion Resistant Ball Bearing), also reduces line friction on the roller. To top it off, the Exceler X Fishing Reel is endowed with Daiwa's Digigear II, also called "Super Metal body," which has dual engine plates that allows for silent oscillation. It also features Daiwa's well-known machined aluminum ABS (Anti Backlash System) spools. Spare spools are included with your purchase of this unbelievable fishing reel.

Final Thoughts on Daiwa Exceler X Fishing Reel

Whether it is speed, power or durability, nothing beats Daiwa's Exceler X Fishing Reel, the high-tech sea fishing tackle that puts the word EXCEL in excellence!

I have been fishing since I was 9 years old and nothing soothes me more. To find incredible bargains on sea fishing tackle throughout the UK I happily suggest KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are incredibly knowledgeable and are always very helpful. Visit their online fishing tackle store for more information or call 01656 722448.

Fishing Tackle: Abu Garcia Bass 8' Fishing Lure Rod Review

As a dedicated angler, I'm always stalking one species of fish or another. I must confess, though, that I particularly enjoy fishing for the noble bass. There's no doubt in my mind that the bass is the most sought-after sea fish by many anglers. So, I've made it my business to learn some facts about my worthy opponent. Here are just a few:

About Bass

Although large specimens might weight as much as 20 pounds, about 3 to 4 pounds is the average. This fish can grow to a length of about 40 inches and can live up to 20 years. The bass belongs to the perch family and has an elongated body with dual dorsal fins. These fish have distinctive silver-coloured sides, grey backs and white undersides. Because bass are a predatory species, they have large eyes and mouths with plenty of small but sharp teeth. This is a warm water fish that you'll find near rocky headlands, harbours, estuaries, power station outlets and surf beaches. You need every possible advantage when fishing for bass. Here's some information about a piece of bass fishing tackle I particularly favour: the Abu Garcia bass fishing lure rod.

Key Features of the Abu Garcia 8' Bass Fishing Lure Rod

Expect to pay about ?163.00 for this rod, but do look for it on special offer for about ?140.00. This rod is part of a dedicated line of lure fishing spinning rods that are specifically designed to work equally well whether you're fishing from shore or from a boat. The design gets high grades from me, simply because it is so versatile. If you're the type of angler who shore fishes with deep diving plugs or surface poppers, take a serious look at this rod. If you prefer boat fishing, it's also great for fishing soft plastics or for spinning.

More About the Abu Garcia 8' Bass Fishing Lure Rod

Bass fishermen can expect extreme performance from this Abu Garcia rod. Since I prefer rods with Fuji guides, I was glad to see this rod fitted with them. Although performance is more important to me than looks, I do think this rod is quite attractive, with a deep midnight blue blank and a distinctive fish graphic. This is a two-piece rod that also has a keeper ring. A thoughtful design feature is the unique, V-shaped hook sharpener located on the rod's butt. It comes with a semi-hard protective case and a neoprene rod bag. Neoprene, by the way, is a synthetic rubber that's quite resistant to oils, grease and ageing. Neoprene also is completely waterproof, so you can be assured your rod is well-protected in its case.

Final Thoughts on the Abu Garcia 8' Bass Fishing Lure Rod

This is a good all-around rod that I highly recommend to bass anglers. It's an extremely durable and very versatile piece of bass fishing tackle that helps even the playing field against these wily fish.

I've been fishing since i was 9 years old and nothing calms me more. To get the best deals on fishing tackle in the UK i strongly recommend KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are extremely well informed on everything related to fishing and are always very helpful. Check out their online fishing tackle store for more details or call 01656 722448.

Sea Bass Fishing

In the US Sea Bass fishing in a number of areas is the main means of earning a living for commercial fishing charters and is a popular recreational sport.

In US waters there are two main types of Sea Bass, black and white.

The Black Sea bass is a member of the grouper family, smaller than it's cousins found is Asia and Australia, it is found on the Eastern seaboard between, Maine, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico normal catch weights are between 7 and 8 pounds at a length of 20 inches. This year 2010 the fishing season has been extended from the usual September to the end of December due to the protection measures taken over the last few years following much over fishing. Reproduction takes place between May and June with tiny eggs that only take one and a half days to hatch.

The white Sea bass is a member of the Croaker family and makes a very distinctive noise underwater, usually found off the pacific coasts. White sea bass travel in schools feeding on small fish usually sardines, in shallow waters. Usual catch weight is about 7 pounds and 28 inches long. Some rare fish have been caught that have been over five feet in length and weighing over 90 pounds.

In Europe there is the European Sea bass which can grow to a meter in length and weigh over 15 kg. Normal catch weight is between and 2 and 4 kg.

European Sea bass are very slow growing taking many years to reach full maturity, a 20 year old bass typically weighs around 5 kg with a length of 70 cm.

Over the last twenty years the number of Bass in UK waters has decreased, due to them becoming a commercially valued fish following them being used in recipes by top chefs and cooks. They are now starting to make a comeback but are generally of a smaller size than fish of yesteryear.

When Sea bass fishing you can be sure of a sporting challenge as Sea Bass are well known for their fighting prowess and put up a lively fight when hooked, light tackle can increase the thrill further. They can be caught in a variety of ways ranging from using lures that look like small or injured prey fish to more regular baits such as worm or crab, live baiting especially for White Sea bass can be very productive.

The majority of fishing in the US is done by boat using a variety of tackle but in the UK many fish can be caught from the shore, with specialist tackle available for the keen angler. A technique that many fishermen prefer when fishing from shore is to use very light tackle, just a rod, fixed spool reel and a couple of lures and employing catch and release for any fish caught a very enjoyable day can be had.

I'm fascinated by the sport of fishing and an enthusiastic participant, please visit the following links to learn more:
http://seabassfishing.net

http://www.seabassfishing.net/sea-bass-fishing/sea-bass-fishing-introduction

Sea Fishing Tackle Reviews: Daiwa Supercast 11'6" Bass Rod

I always find it quite thrilling to stand on a craggy, windswept beach, ready to cast my line into the surf. As a bass fisherman, I know all too well the need for the right sea fishing tackle under what can be challenging angling conditions. Choice of rod is particularly important to me. Lately, I've been partial to a nifty rod from Daiwa, the Supercast Bass 11'6". Here's some information about this nearly perfect rod.

About the Daiwa Supercast 11'6" Bass Rod

The designers and engineers at Daiwa got it right with this rod. The Supercast Bass rod features an extremely powerful butt section and a blended glass tip for extreme responsiveness and sensitivity. Remember, though, that this is a rod for light shore and estuary fishing. If you're out for big or powerful fish, it might be best to choose another Daiwa model. The Supercast is constructed from high-grade carbon fibre, a material that gives the angler many advantages. For example, using a carbon fibre rod gives you much greater control over where to place your bait. The superior stiffness of these types of rods allows for smooth and accurate casts. Carbon fibre rods are much stronger than other types, which means that the rod will be more resistant to stress and damage, a fact you're sure to appreciate when fighting a large or strong fish. In many cases, carbon fibre can be stronger than reinforced materials or even metal.

Features of the Daiwa Supercast 11'6" Bass Rod

Another thing I like about this Daiwa rod is the compound taper tip, a unique design from Daiwa that is both strong and responsive. With split Duplon grips and a quality winch fitting for multiplier or fixed spool reels, this rod has it all. The guides are shock ring protected and made from durable, corrosion resistant aluminium oxide. I often choose this rod for extended fishing sessions or fishing in bad weather because it has a neutral balance that makes it quite comfortable to hold for long periods without much hand or muscle fatigue. The tip responds correctly and has ample power for casting against a strong wind. The rod is designed to cast a weight of 2 to 4 ounces and has a maximum casting range of about 200 yards.

More about the Daiwa Supercast 11'6" Bass Rod

Another reason I like this rod is its versatility. Whether you're standing on clean sand or on mixed ground, the rod is more than equal to fast running tides. This rod is made in the UK, another fact I appreciate. Part of the Supercast 7-member product line, the 11'6" rod uses unique blank shapes that produce an amazing blend of performance and balance. The powerful and strong butt is made from multi-ply, high-grade carbon. The rod's amazingly fast recovery comes from its unique compound taper. The result? Deadly accurate casts!

For a great, all-around piece of sea fishing tackle, I highly recommend the Daiwa Supercast 11'6" bass rod.

I've been fishing since i was 9 years old and nothing soothes me more. To get great deals on sea fishing tackle in the UK I happily suggest KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are extremely well informed and are always very helpful. Check out their online fishing tackle store for more details or call 01656 722448.

Bass Fishing - What? No Bow Fishing This Trip?

We where all ready for our bass fishing trip. We loaded up the tackle box with are favorite top water jigs, spoons, shiners, real bait, power bait etc. etc. Nothing was left out for are fishing adventure down the bayou to catch some nice large-mouth bass.

Then the three children started to plead and beg to load up there bow fishing bows into the fishing boat the night before. What dad can say no to their own children when it comes to the great outdoors and wanting to shoot there bows to polish up on the archery skills they have learned thus far.

Let me set the story strait. The wife (aka the misses) of the house doesn't bow fish. So are day was planned for a great bass fishing adventure and everyone was suppose to fish with there rod and reels. We loaded up the boat with the fishing poles and yes, the bow fishing gear was hidden below in the compartment so the woman of the house wouldn't see them. I didn't want to ruin her day or the kids.  That way I can have my cake and eat it too while fishing.

The morning started off pretty well for a family fishing trip. With are fishing boat already overloaded with gear. It gets a little smaller with five people trying to fish from a sixteen foot Jon boat. We made it to are favorite fishing hole by first light and realized the challenges ahead of us within moments. Are favorite bass fishing spot was over grown with grass and lilies. Now usually, this makes for a great combination of bass near the tree line where it's shaded but we where so overwhelmed by the over growth that it made it very difficult for the kids to cast and jig back to the boat. Almost every cast was either fouled up or caught in the grass.

By late morning we had a half a dozen bass in the boat. Now if your familiar with Louisiana and southern humidity you can understand why the kids wanted there bow fishing bows. The water is to dangerous to take a quick dip to cool down in with all of the snakes and alligators in the water. They started the usual complaining and wanted to get the boat moving to cool down. With the fish not biting as well in the heat the of the day the alligator gar started to splash around. My wife wasn't to happy at the moment. Bass fish generally aren't around when the gar fish are active.  Six bass around 2 to 3lbs  or was it 4 to 5lbs. Anyway we had caught  enough for dinner and the misses was getting the urge to get moving towards the dock. Lunch was approaching plus we where so hot and miserable with the complaining kids.

The misses agreed to bow fishing are way back to the dock. The three kids lit up with grins on there faces with moms suggestion to hunt the way back. The kids wet there bow fishing lines to prevent any line miss happenings and we where on the hunt. The kids practice on a rag target all the time at the house but, it is not the same thing shooting at a moving target or even off of a moving platform.  The kids landed a couple of smaller alligator gar and a few channel cat fish. Everyone was happy with there day spent outside fishing.

Now when I say, "never take your bow fishing bow". What I really mean is, "have your bow fishing bows in your boat at all times". You never know when the fish stop biting and you can still land a prehistoric monster or gar.  Load up your freezer with meat. Now there not the best fish to eat but the Cajuns have a nice gar fish ball recipe to make the fish more palatable.

We finished are evening with some blackened bass for supper. We cooked are meal outside with are camping stove and enjoyed  are meal outdoors with a nice sunset. The fruits of are adventure never tasted so sweet.

Enjoy some great bow fishing and pole fishing adventures in the bayou with Bowfishing & Pole Fishing [http://bowfishing.blogspot.com/].

How To Hook A Lure For Bass Fishing

You may already be a master of bass fishing or you may be just setting out to explore the excitement this sport has to offer. Whatever your reason you have made a wise choice and have many hours of excitement lying ahead of you. You will always have opportunities to better your skills at the sport. If you are a beginner you should spend some time studying your game. There are several things you need to know about the elusive Bass.

You would do yourself a world of good if you spent some time studying the type of lures that are best for fishing Bass. Though the market is flooded with lures that the manufacturers claim to be the best lure for bass fishing, you will be the better judge of that and your judgment will only improve with time.

In your quest to get the best bass lures you will be led to many portals and publications about the sport of fishing. Many of these portals and magazines will have testimonies of masters of the sport. These testimonies will be very useful for your to understand what it is that attracts the mighty Bass. It is up to you to combine the knowledge you have accumulated from your past fishing trips to judge the quality of advice in these magazines. If you feel the advice is practical, go ahead and give it a try, however, beware of any testimony that attempts to promote any particular manufacturer or supplier. These are mostly hyped testimonies and planted stories, and may never work well.

Another good way is to join an amateur fishing club and mix with the more experienced anglers. You will be able to learn a lot from your association with experienced fishermen. You will also be amazed at the tricks up their sleeve when it comes to making Bass lures indigenously. The best lure for bass is made from feathers and brightly colored. You can find all the material you need to make your own Bass fishing lure such as, a bottle cork, a feather, some oil paint, and a bit of string. You will be surprised at the results a colorful lure will get you during your bass fishing trip.

In addition there is non-promotional information not related to any brand such as techniques used in fishing and the best time of day to fish. Many anglers feel that the lure used must suit the time of day you choose to use it. The lure is also matched to the species of Bass you wish to tackle. You must gain this knowledge from talking to experienced fishermen and doing a lot of reading and research on the internet. There are scores of fishing sites that you could learn a lot from and make the best of your hobby - fishing for Bass.

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Sea Fishing Tackle: Shakespeare Salt Extreme Bass Fishing Rod Review

Although I do enjoy freshwater fishing, sea fishing is my true passion. As a Briton, I have an almost mystical regard for the sea and for the myriad creatures that inhabit it. Frankly, I can think of nothing better than casting a line into the sea and waiting patiently for a strike. Then the battle begins! I have a particular fondness for bass, so when a fish takes my lure, I'm always hoping it's one of these wily and agile fighters. When I'm out for bass in salt water, I'm certain to take my most durable sea fishing tackle. One piece of gear I reach for often is my Shakespeare Salt Extreme bass fishing rod. Here's why I like it so much.

Key Features of the Shakespeare Salt Extreme Bass Fishing Rod

The Salt Extreme is a relatively new addition to the Shakespeare product line. It's skilfully designed to handle a wide variety of bass fishing locales and conditions just about anywhere in the UK. I particularly like that the Salt Extreme is made from a durable carbon blank with a slim and elegant profile. It's quite versatile as well, being rung to take either a multiplier or fixed spool reel. Another thing I appreciate is that the rod has an optimal combination of a medium fast taper action with plenty of stiffness in the butt. Whether I'm fishing in an estuary or in the sea itself, this rod is always equal to the task, and has few problems with rough ground.

More About the Shakespeare Salt Extreme Bass Fishing Rod

Fitted with quality Fuji guides, this rod also has spigot joints that make for a secure fit. Another key feature is the butt gimbal that allows me to use a rod bucket when fighting larger fish. The Salt Extreme has a fast action as well as a glazed tip. To protect the rod, it comes with a protective blue X wrap shrink tube. But don't just take my word for the quality of this rod: Know that it was designed in conjunction with Mike Thrussel, a renowned and highly respected sea fishing consultant and journalist. Like all Shakespeare products, the Salt Extreme has undergone rigorous testing to verify both quality and performance. All these features converge in what I consider to be a best in class piece of tackle for sea fishing anglers:

Final Thoughts on the Salt Extreme Bass Rod

For me, the most important features of a quality bass rod are torque resistance and balance. This Shakespeare rod doesn't disappoint in either regard. The rod's length suits it perfectly not only for bass but also for pollack, bream, plaice and dabs. This truly is an excellent all-around rod that sells for a very competitive price, about ?75.99, including VAT and shipping.

For anglers like me who appreciate quality sea fishing tackle, the Shakespeare Salt Extreme bass fishing rod is an excellent choice. My rating? 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars.

I have been fishing since i was 9 years old and nothing soothes me more. To find incredible bargains on sea fishing tackle throughout the uk I happily suggest KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are incredibly knowledgeable and are always very helpful. Visit their online fishing tackle store for more information or call 01656 722448.

Fishing Tips For Bass - Bass Fishing Basics

There is not a fisherman out there who is not interested in learning more fishing tips for bass.  Bass are the most sought after game fish in North America.  They taste great and fight like there is no tomorrow.   But they can be a bit tougher to land than other fish.  The following fishing tips for bass should help you land more fish.

Use the proper tackle.  You don't want to use tackle that is too light, or too heavy.  A good medium - medium heavy action rod and a good reel with at least 3 ball bearings should serve you well.  Don't go with poor quality tackle or you will lose fish.  But you do not have to overspend either as much of the tackle out there is overpriced name brand stuff. 

Bass love structure.  This is the 2ND biggest of the fishing tips for bass.  Look for structure where bass can hide.  Rocks, underwater channels and ledges, and fallen timber provide areas where bass can lie in wait for their prey.

Live bait should be live.  If you are fishing with live bait, check every now and then to ensure that it is still alive.  Bass are not too fond of dead bait.  Catfish however, are very fond of dead bait if you do not mind catching a catfish.

Use proper lure color.  If the water is clear and it is bright outside, use a shiny, flashy lure.  If the water is off color or the sky is gray or dark, use a bright color like chartreuse or orange.  If fishing at night, use a black or dark colored bait.

Let the fish tire themselves out.  When reeling in your catch, let the fish do all the work.  The harder you fight the fish, the harder they will fight back.  Once they tire, it will be easier to get them in the boat.

Remember to practice catch and release.  Sure it is okay to keep a few bass every now and then.  But as a responsible angler remember to properly release bass as often as possible.  If the bass is particularly large, weigh it and take some pictures and then either donate to the ShareALunker program or release back into the water where you caught it.

And don't ever forget that taking someone you love fishing is the absolute biggest of fishing tips for bass.  Go bass fishing today with someone you love and build memories that will last a lifetime.

I trust these fishing tips for bass will help you get started in the sport of bass fishing. My father taught me how to fish when I was young and it is one of my favorite things to do. Just being outdoors and away from it all can really revive the soul. You can learn more tips for bass fishing by clicking the link for more info. Now Go Fish!

Improve Your Catch by Using the Best Largemouth Bass Fishing Lure

It is important the you are always prepared when you go bass fishing and one of the things you will need is to make sure that you have the best largemouth bass fishing lure. Do have this with you and do you know how to get this is the question. The truth is that there is no single fishing lure the is considered as the best, however several do work really well under different fishing situations.

To ensure that you get the best catch, the selection of largemouth bass fishing lure in your tackle box should be as wide and diversified as possible. This is so that you will be able to pick and choose the specific lures you need when you are out in the water to suit the conditions you are in.

To start of with, here is list of a few of the best largemouth bass fishing lures that are available and why you should consider adding them to your lure selection before you take your next bass fishing trip.

The Plastic Worms

Plastic worms are lures that you should always keep in your tackle box as these are really consistent and have in fact contributed to the largest number bass caught throughout the world than any other type of bass fishing lure in the market. They are very reliable when it comes to catching large numbers of bass, and they are also very affordable which will allow you to buy quite a number and still have enough cash to buy other types of lure.

These types of lure are always available and even come in a variety of styles including scented plastic worm baits. They have indeed really revolutionized the worm fishing concept as we know it today. Bass will always and repeatedly hold on to these kind of devices and you will need to know is how to reel the fish in, and you will be sure that you have a bountiful bass catch at the end of the day.

The Spinnerbaits

These types of lure are great and you should have a number of them in your tackle box also. Spinnerbaits will offer you a great deal of ease and versatility in you bass fishing adventures as they have proved to have accounted for a large number of good catches provided they are used properly. Keep a number of the spinnerbaits with different colors in your selection.

The Topwater Plugs

Finally you should also consider having the topwater plugs in your selection of lure. These are really diverse and they tend to always catch the attention of the bass. Bass quickly respond to these type of lure, however you should keep in mind that the bass you are trying to catch must be active for you to be able to catch them with this type of bass fishing lure. Like with the other types of lures , to be able to have a good catch you need to ensure that the fishing conditions are ideal in order for you to maximize the potential of these lures.

When you have these selection largemouth bass fishing lure in your tackle box, you will ensure that you are always in prepared and that you will be more successful during your future bass fishing trips.

Learn more about Bass Fishing [http://www.fishingdiscovery.com] and how to improve your fishing adventures.

Sea Fishing Tackle Review: Penn Powerstix Pro Bass Rod

Don't get me wrong: I'm as enthusiastic an angler as the next guy. I do wish to confess, on the other hand, that the more elderly I become, the less willing I am to carry around a weighty and cumbersome variety of fishing tackle. Whenever I am bass fishing, I prefer to travel light, yet still will need my tackle to be the appropriate sort for pursuing this difficult fish. Furthermore, I will need a rod that works well near the coast, with plenty of resilience to handle larger fish, when I'm fortunate enough to catch one. Just as I was starting to question whether I ever could get a rod to suit all my requirements, I came across the Penn Powerstix Pro Bass rod. Here's exactly why I favour it so much.

Key Features of the Penn Powerstix Pro Bass Rod

This three-piece fishing rod is 11ft 6in in length. I really like that it's made from a lightweight blank and has quite a slim diameter. The Powerstix Pro bass rod features a heart of effective and hard-wearing 24-ton carbon. Why is this important for anglers? Well, 24-ton carbon fibre carries a tensile strength of 24 tons for each square centimetre. Amazing! The fishing rod in addition has a Penn reel seat, EVA fore and also butt grips, eight guides, plus a tip guide. The combination of the guide spacing and guide size with the rod's parabolic action make the Powerstix Pro suitable for use with fixed-spool or multiplier reels, specially when casting baits or lures.

More Info On the Powerstix Pro Bass Rod

This specific fishing rod is definitely the newest version in Penn's renowned Powerstix line, and regardless of the term "bass" in its name, it really is quite adaptable. It is a three-piece fishing rod, meaning it can be stowed and transported effortlessly, because the carrying length is just 3ft10in. All portions are the same length. The Cordura carry tube is firm and protective, includes a convenient shoulder strap, and is also super easy for travelling. The Powerstix Pro bass rod is really a pleasure to cast with. In reality, the strength of the carbon fibre inside the fishing rod makes it possible for it to cast weights up to 4 ounces with ease, smoothness, swiftness, and precision, making it great for close quarters shore fishing. Do try it out on species other than bass, such as wrasse and flatfish.

Ending Thoughts concerning the Penn Powerstix Pro Bass Rod

The Pro Bass features quite an exquisite look. The ten Fuji guides' whippings are exactly the same colour as the blank -- a bold, intense red with silver trim. Yet another highlight I value would be that the last 50cm of the rod is actually reflective, hence bites could very well be clearly seen during the night time. The parabolic action I mentioned earlier is both slow and also through, with the pleasurable result that the fishing rod gives maximal sport without having to sacrifice control. Count on paying between ?65 and ?75 for the Penn Powerstix Pro bass rod.

This is a wonderful item of sea fishing tackle that is definitely affordable, adaptable, and high in quality. I'm pleased to give it a rating of 4.5 out of a potential 5 stars.

I have been fishing since i was 9 years old and nothing soothes me more. To find incredible bargains on sea fishing tackle throughout the uk I happily suggest KeensTackleandguns. Their friendly staff are incredibly knowledgeable and are always very helpful. Visit their online fishing tackle store for more information or call 01656 722448.

Largemouth Bass Fishing Tips - Give Light Tackle a Try!

Regardless of where you live or how tough the conditions are on the lake you are fishing, there are always some bass that can be coaxed into biting. Sure, we all know that there are going to be days when nothing works and you will go home empty handed. That is what prompts us to keep learning and improve our bass fishing skills. This article will provide some largemouth bass fishing tips that will, hopefully, keep you from getting skunked when the conditions are tough.

If you resist the temptation to run around the lake, and if you stay with some simple proven, techniques, then you can certainly reduce your number of fishless days. When the fishing is tough, the worst mistake that can be made is to abandon a proven area without trying a variety of techniques. This is when slowing down your lure presentation and light tackle comes into play. It's not easy to slow down and thoroughly fish a certain area since it requires patience and persistence, but when the conditions are tough and the fish are not aggressive, it is the best way to make the most out of limited time.

We have all heard that big baits catch big bass, but small lures on light line catch all sizes of fish when nothing else works. The next time you find yourself fishing in tough conditions try downsizing your tackle. Try using a spinning rod with 6 to 8 lbs. test line with lures that are 1/16 to 1/4 oz and cover virtually every inch of the area. This is the time when you will need to slow down, fish tight to the cover, and keep your lures in the strike zone longer. Light tackle allows you to offer a more subtle, slower moving presentation with smaller lures. Small lures tend to look more natural and tend to convince reluctant fish to strike especially when the conditions are tough.

Light tackle allows you to do a lot of things differently. Obviously, the downfall is that it is more fragile and you will be more likely to lose some fish and some lures. However, with the proper equipment and quality line, you can handle some mighty big bass on light tackle. So, the next time you are fishing in tough conditions and the fish don't seem to be biting, remember these largemouth bass fishing tips and give light tackle a try. Perhaps you won't get skunked and come home empty handed.

For more largemouth bass fishing tips visit http://www.squidoo.com/largemouth_bass_fishing_techniques.

Spring Bass Fishing - Catchin Them Goin to Bed!

Cold fronts disappearing, green grass returning, flowers blooming, and groundhogs dodging their own shadow are all sure signs that Spring is near! Warm days, cool nights, maybe even a St. Patrick's Day pinch or rumors of chocolate bunnies. These bring back so many memories of childhood, growing up in a rural farming community in north-central Florida.

There was one more sign that would mark the start of a new season without a doubt. Trucks, pulling boats, lined up at the boat ramp on the east shore of Lake George FL at the butt-crack of dawn, beginning the first of many quests of the year for that trophy largemouth Bass. Highly elusive and instinctual, it's by far the most coveted freshwater fish that has ever graced the "trophy wall" of any angler.

Bass fishing in this area my whole life, I was fortunate enough (because of favorable climate conditions) to fish for this species all year long. Notably, the action would significantly increase as the water temperature made it's turn upward. Along with that change in water temperature came an increase in vegetation, the start of the bedding season, and rightfully so, an increase in fishing pressure.

The southwestern shore of the lake would always experience the rise in water temperature first. This was due to extended exposure to the sun. As the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, this area of the lake remained exposed from sunrise through the hottest parts of the day. Lake George is also 9 miles wide at it's narrowest point, separating Marion and Volusia Counties. Lakes of smaller volume will have the same result, but in larger bodies of water the change will be more drastic and remain that way for an extended period of time.

It was on this southwestern shore that bass would begin preparing "beds" for laying their eggs. Now, by beds I mean a small pocket in the sandy bottom usually located in less than 3 feet of water. The female and male bass will take turns fanning with their tails to create this shallow indention in the lake bottom. After both prepare the bed it is now left to the female to maintain it and ultimately lay her eggs in it. There will only be one "sow" bass and up to 4 or 5 "buck" bass occupying one particular bed. Of course the males compete for fertilizing rights, as the female stays close to protect her prize nest.

"Okay. Enough with the biology lesson," you say? Well, to understand this fish you must know why it does what it does. You find this out and "where" this fish are at this time of year becomes pretty easy to determine. Even then, only certain presentations and bait will be the most effective in landing one of these fish. Now, on to locating these critters!

I recommend scouting an area like this thoroughly before you plan your "fishing trip." A smaller, light vessel makes it much easier to navigate the shallows. I recommend a flat-bottom aluminum boat, Carolina Skiff, or skip jack. One with a poling/spotting platform is also quite handy. Poling around the shallows will take a while but it ensures that you don't spook fish and possibly ruin their bedding areas. If in grassy, highly vegetated areas, or covered in lily pads, look for wide, open pockets within these areas. Then keep an eye out for 2-3 feet circles of white sand with a pocket in the middle of it. A good pair of polarized sunglasses does the trick for sighting these areas through the glare of the water's surface. Active beds can be identified by their freshly "fanned" appearance and when approached stealthily, you can usually see the female bass on the bed. Pay attention to this as it is important to only fish active beds. Fish that are spooked off the bed will return later when the threat decreases. After finding active beds mark them with a small buoy about 6 feet away from the bed so you don't disturb it. This will make it easier to find these areas when you come back with your rod and reel!

Now let's talk about bait and tackle for these fish. There are hundreds of artificials, live baits, and other tackle that frequent a bass anglers tackle box. The first instinct of the traditional bass angler is to tie on a rubber worm and dance it in front of the big-mouthed monster! When in fact, the last thing on the female bass' mind is feeding. She is protecting her eggs from the dangers of underwater life. The most effective bait to catch her is known as the bullhead minnow, or pimephales vigilax. The bullhead is a natural enemy of the Largemouth Bass. It's primary food source is fish eggs. They absolutely love the bass beds and in turn, the bass utterly despise the bullhead! It's the perfect bait for the job!

Remember earlier when I spoke of the "sow" and "buck" bass? Well, time for one more biology lesson! The female will be bigger than the male bass 90% of the time. She will also be the most lethargic. As mentioned before, her feeding has slowed greatly and her energy has been conserved for breeding purposes. The male bass on the other hand, are quite frisky, a traditional Spring characteristic! They are usually the first fish caught off the bed and the strike will be violent and explosive! They usually range in size from 2-6 lbs. The female is the one with the girth and weight that would look awesome above your mantle! Be patient and never leave the bed until you have caught at least two fish.

A medium action rod no shorter than 6 feet in length, a spinning or bait-casting reel equipped with 14lb test (min.) fluorocarbon low visibility line is optimal for best performance. The bullhead minnow should be rigged free line, on a 1/0 live bait hook, hooked under the dorsal fin. Make sure not to handle the bait in excess as this shortens the life span thus decreasing activity. You'll want to present the bait with a fragile, low splash cast directly behind the bed and reel up until you feel it drop into the pocket. Now wait...sometimes it takes a long time. The cast, your approach, or boat noise might have spooked the fish and you'll have to give them time to come back. As said before, the male will usually hit first like he's on a mission! The female bass, not into feeding at this point, approaches from a different angle. She will pick the bait up with her mouth, crush it to kill it, swim off the bed and drop it. This process takes just a few seconds and is very easily missed. The trick is to keep just a little slack in your line and watch your line closely. You don't want to rush your hook-set, but when you see the line move, count to three, lay into her, and hold on for the ride!

These methods have been used by bass guides for more than 30 years and have proven themselves as a high-return freshwater fishing tactic. Remember that the bass guides themselves have devoted long hours in perfecting their own means within this method and it comes with large amounts of field research and determination. There are people who pay big money to have someone hook up a bullhead minnow and set them up on big bass hot-spot. So to all of you bass guides, I'm sorry! The cat's out of the bag! Now to you readers, get out there and catch the bass of a lifetime! To you dads out there, take your kid fishing. All of my experience can attributed to my father, who knew the importance of taking his son fishing. Some of the best moments in my life were spent with worm guts on my fingers, and laughing with my dad and uncles as we pulled in the fish.

I hope that this was helpful to all of you fishermen and I hope to see you out on the water! Keep fishing!

"Give a boy a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a boy to fish, you feed him for a lifetime."

http://www.bigfileswapper.com/kharj3-dforvh

Bass Fishing Without A Pole

Bass fishing usually requires a fishing pole, but there are other ways, and that is what this story is about. A warning though: The techniques described here are almost certainly illegal wherever you go fishing. They were fun when we were kids though...

Bass Fishing From A Raft

Wilsey Bay in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is known for its good smallmouth bass fishing. The swimming isn't that bad either, which was why we built the raft. My friend Bruce was probably the oldest at the time, about twelve-years-old. It was probably his idea to use the oil barrels for flotation. Four of them, topped by some wooden pallets and plywood nailed together, made a raft that could support seven or eight people.

We anchored it in the middle of the bay. It is a shallow bay, so the middle was still only six feet deep or so. This would be our swimming area, but more than that. We started to bring small trees out and sink them with milk jugs full of sand and pieces of cinder blocks. Of course, we didn't know that it was illegal to build an artificial environment for fish. In fact, we didn't know that this was what we were doing. We built walls of rocks underwater as well.

Within a few weeks there were schools of fish hanging out below our raft in the racks and tree branches. There were some perch, but most of them were smallmouth bass. As we watched then swimming below us, and then as we watched them next to us during our dives. I had an idea. Who needs a fishing pole when you can get this close to the fish?

Bruce kept the bucket ready in the boat, which was tied to the raft. I had one fishhook and three feet of line. I tied the hook to one end of the line and tied the other end to my finger. I treaded water while Bruce baited the hook with half of a worm. He threw the line over the edge of the boat.

Swimming by the trees, I simply let the baited hook float alongside me, trying to hold it out from my body a couple feet. I could only hold my breath for a minute or less, but by the second dive a ten-inch bass darted out of the tree branches and took the bait. I swam to the boat and lifted it up for Bruce to take. Just barely legal - or at least it would have been if it weren't for the trees. Then again, maybe a fishing pole is a legal requirement. Bruce threw it in the bucket and I went back down for more.

Perch Fishing By Hand

The little creek that enters the bay was occasionally stopped by the sand that built up during storms. Then the water would build up behind the sand for days until it broke loose and opened up the stream again. We didn't always wait, however. Once there was sufficient water pressure, a simple channel dug through the sand by hand, from the dammed creek to the bay, was enough to get it going. It would start out slowly, and then, within an hour the creek would be gushing out into the bay, twenty-feet across where our three-inch channel had been.

Since the creek rarely flowed this fast normally, other things happened that weren't normal. The fish that had been in the creek behind the dam would all get flushed out, for example. The day of the "perch flush" the creek had opened up almost thirty-feet wide, but only a few inches deep. As the perch came out, we grabbed them by hand until we had a couple dozen in a bucket. We built a pond on the beach for these, since it was too many to eat all at once.

Other Childish Fishing Techniques

We caught smelt one at a time by hand with a flashlight, as many as forty in a hour or two. We shamelessly clubbed suckers in the creek ad brought them to the neighbor. She would pressure-cook them with ketchup, and they came out looking and tasting almost like canned salmon. Half for herself - that was the charge for cooking them for us.

Whether bass fishing without a pole or clubbing suckers, these are probably not techniques you'll want to try unless you want to meet the local game warden. And I do have to warn you that the last time I tried using just a hook and a piece of line, the fish bit my thumb and drew blood. Yes, I may be the only person to ever had blood drawn by the bite of a smallmouth bass. But it is fun to remember how much fun childhood fishing could be.

Copyright Steve Gillman. For more Fishing Stories visit: http://www.999FishStories.com