"Never a fisherman need there be, if fishes could hear as well as see"
author: unattributable
source: Notes & Quotes, ser. IV, ii, 94
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Smallmouth Guru
The following is an article by Stephen Headrick, The Smallmouth Guru, Bassmaster.com
A question I get asked a lot when I'm traveling around the country doing seminars is "What's the most common mistake smallmouth bass anglers make when they're fishing a jig?" It's a really good question, and I've had a chance to think about it for several years now, so my answer has changed a little over time.
I used to tell people that the biggest mistake was that they didn't fish the jig often enough or that they didn't fish it slowly enough. Both of those answers are true, by the way.
But now I think the biggest mistake most anglers make when fishing a jig is that they don't keep their rod tip low enough when they fish it. Instead they keep the rod tip up at 11 or 12 o'clock, which is a great position for detecting strikes, but a poor one for setting the hook.
If you watch your line carefully, like I do, you'll soon realize that you can see more strikes than you ever feel. And since that's true, you'll do yourself a big favor by keeping your rod low during a jig retrieve — from about 9 to 10 o'clock.You might be able to get away with a high rod angle when largemouth fishing or even when the smallmouth are really tearing it up, but on slow days or when you need to turn every strike into a catch, keeping your rod tip low will pay off for you with more bass.
The reason is simple. When your rod tip is low — nearly parallel to the water — you're in a
better position to set the hook, and you need to be able to do that very, very fast. Smallmouth are curious creatures, but they don't have hands. The only way they can check something out is by picking it up in their mouths. When they're curious and not really feeding — which I think is a big majority of the time — you don't have as long to set the hook as when they're eating heavily and sucking that lure all the way to the backs of their mouths.
By keeping your rod low, your eyes on the line and by having a hair trigger hook set, you're going to catch a lot more smallmouth.And remember to set the hook just as soon as you feel something different, something you can't recognize. The strike isn't always a solid thump or even a mushy feeling. Sometimes it's the complete loss of feeling because a fish has picked up your bait and is moving toward you with it. Other times it's completely different from any of those. Watch your line closely, and set the hook just as soon as you see it move or feel something different.
Almost as important when you're setting the hook on a good smallmouth is to get your hand on the reel right away (better yet, never take it off) and get cranking on that fish to keep the line tight and the bass moving toward you. Slack line is your enemy, and you need to keep that fish coming after the hook set.
Finally, don't wait when you have a strike! It's a guarantee that the bass doesn't have your lure in its hands!
For further articles by this experienced guru, go to http://sports.espn.go.com/outdoors/bassmaster/index
A question I get asked a lot when I'm traveling around the country doing seminars is "What's the most common mistake smallmouth bass anglers make when they're fishing a jig?" It's a really good question, and I've had a chance to think about it for several years now, so my answer has changed a little over time.
I used to tell people that the biggest mistake was that they didn't fish the jig often enough or that they didn't fish it slowly enough. Both of those answers are true, by the way.
But now I think the biggest mistake most anglers make when fishing a jig is that they don't keep their rod tip low enough when they fish it. Instead they keep the rod tip up at 11 or 12 o'clock, which is a great position for detecting strikes, but a poor one for setting the hook.
If you watch your line carefully, like I do, you'll soon realize that you can see more strikes than you ever feel. And since that's true, you'll do yourself a big favor by keeping your rod low during a jig retrieve — from about 9 to 10 o'clock.You might be able to get away with a high rod angle when largemouth fishing or even when the smallmouth are really tearing it up, but on slow days or when you need to turn every strike into a catch, keeping your rod tip low will pay off for you with more bass.
The reason is simple. When your rod tip is low — nearly parallel to the water — you're in a
better position to set the hook, and you need to be able to do that very, very fast. Smallmouth are curious creatures, but they don't have hands. The only way they can check something out is by picking it up in their mouths. When they're curious and not really feeding — which I think is a big majority of the time — you don't have as long to set the hook as when they're eating heavily and sucking that lure all the way to the backs of their mouths.
By keeping your rod low, your eyes on the line and by having a hair trigger hook set, you're going to catch a lot more smallmouth.And remember to set the hook just as soon as you feel something different, something you can't recognize. The strike isn't always a solid thump or even a mushy feeling. Sometimes it's the complete loss of feeling because a fish has picked up your bait and is moving toward you with it. Other times it's completely different from any of those. Watch your line closely, and set the hook just as soon as you see it move or feel something different.
Almost as important when you're setting the hook on a good smallmouth is to get your hand on the reel right away (better yet, never take it off) and get cranking on that fish to keep the line tight and the bass moving toward you. Slack line is your enemy, and you need to keep that fish coming after the hook set.
Finally, don't wait when you have a strike! It's a guarantee that the bass doesn't have your lure in its hands!
For further articles by this experienced guru, go to http://sports.espn.go.com/outdoors/bassmaster/index
Monday, March 10, 2008
How about fly-fishing in Northern Spain
For the fly fishermen there is a beautiful place in Northern Spain, along the Mino, Labra, and Tamoga Rivers. With Brown trout plentiful, you will be fishing with Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and Storks. More wild life abounds here including deer and wild boar. For further information visit www.flyfishinggalicia.co.uk/
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Bull Shoals Lake
An impressive 71,000 acre lake, situated on Arkansas-Missouri border south of Sundown, Missouri, the Bull Shoals Lake is one lake you should consider for your fishing and camping vacations. For a family fishing vacation, you can choose any water sport you like, bring your water skis, scuba diving equipment, camping gear, fishing tackle, as well as hiking equipment. Swimming is great mid May through September.
The Bull Shoals Lake has numerous boat ramps in both Arkansas and Missouri areas. Fishing is great year round, but the peak action is during March, April and May, for bass, crappie, catfish, and many other species.
The Bull Shoals Lake has numerous boat ramps in both Arkansas and Missouri areas. Fishing is great year round, but the peak action is during March, April and May, for bass, crappie, catfish, and many other species.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Bass Fishing Hall of Fame
A five-time Bassmaster Classic contender, Charlie Campbell of Forsythe, Missouri, is one of four men who were inducted recently into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. Campbell competed in 229 Bassmaster events from 1971 to 2002. He scored 27 top-20 finishes, including fifth place in the 1974 Classic. He is also known for creating the Charlie Campbell CC Spinner Bait and contributing to the design of the first Bass Tracker Boats.
Three other pioneers of the sport will be inducted posthumously, including Nick Creme, who with his brother invented the first soft-plastic worm and founded Creme Lure Co. in Texas. Lure inventor and TV show host Virgil Ward of Missouri also will be inducted, as will Elwood Lake "Buck" Perry, the North Carolina angler widely acclaimed as being "the father of structure fishing."
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization based in Hot Springs, Ark.
courtesy Fishing World.com
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
WackyBass on Hit and Run for Bass
I found a site that I am sure you guys will enjoy, Fishing.US, along with this post by WackyBass, check this out.
Hit And Run For Bass
By WackyBass at Fri, 2008-02-08 12:39 Bass Fishing
For the past 33 years I have been on the lookout for an all around bass lure that can be used in the hundreds of ponds, park district and forest preserve lakes that surround my urban world called the Chicago land area and I have found it. I needed a bass lure that would be suitable for just about any bank fishing situation and one that can be carried in my pocket if need be.
My current fast paced lifestyle forces me to be selective in the amount of time that can be dedicated to my favorite hobby and past time, bass fishing. When I see a new body of water I pull over, grab my medium action spinning rod that is rigged with a rabbit hair wacky worm, and cast for 15 minutes or so. When I am on the road whether doing errands or on business, I have a great opportunity to explore new places, possibly catch a bass at a new fishing hole close to home. No matter the time of year (excluding winter); I make my first cast parallel to the shore, no more than 3 feet out. I gradually work my casts further and further from shore until I get that first strike. After the first bass is landed and released, I concentrate on the same distance from shore, still working the lure so it moves parallel to the shoreline. After 15 minutes is up I get a firm understanding of the quality of fishing spot it is, and what my next planned trip will entail.
The trick to this “hit and run” largemouth bass fishing tactic for busy people can only be successful if you are prepared at all times and you travel light. Traveling light means that you have a medium action rod with a spinning reel and a plastic, slow sinking lure such as a rabbit hair wacky worm already tied on ready to go. It is important to have a slow sinking lure since most park district or forest preserve bodies of water are rather shallow and full of vegetation, near the very mucky bottom. If you used a diving or heavy lure such as a crankbait, you will spend the majority of your fifteen minutes removing algae, weeds and other debris from your lure. The slow sinking rabbit hair wacky worm will sink and find the proper depth for you. You will enjoy yourself immensely and have a much better chance of success if your lure is spends a majority of its time fishing rather than snagging.
It can be extremely challenging finding the time to do some quality bank fishing let alone catch some fish with your favorite bass fishing lure, but with a little time management and planning, you will find that there is way to hit and run for bass.
courtesy of Fishing.US
Hit And Run For Bass
By WackyBass at Fri, 2008-02-08 12:39 Bass Fishing
For the past 33 years I have been on the lookout for an all around bass lure that can be used in the hundreds of ponds, park district and forest preserve lakes that surround my urban world called the Chicago land area and I have found it. I needed a bass lure that would be suitable for just about any bank fishing situation and one that can be carried in my pocket if need be.
My current fast paced lifestyle forces me to be selective in the amount of time that can be dedicated to my favorite hobby and past time, bass fishing. When I see a new body of water I pull over, grab my medium action spinning rod that is rigged with a rabbit hair wacky worm, and cast for 15 minutes or so. When I am on the road whether doing errands or on business, I have a great opportunity to explore new places, possibly catch a bass at a new fishing hole close to home. No matter the time of year (excluding winter); I make my first cast parallel to the shore, no more than 3 feet out. I gradually work my casts further and further from shore until I get that first strike. After the first bass is landed and released, I concentrate on the same distance from shore, still working the lure so it moves parallel to the shoreline. After 15 minutes is up I get a firm understanding of the quality of fishing spot it is, and what my next planned trip will entail.
The trick to this “hit and run” largemouth bass fishing tactic for busy people can only be successful if you are prepared at all times and you travel light. Traveling light means that you have a medium action rod with a spinning reel and a plastic, slow sinking lure such as a rabbit hair wacky worm already tied on ready to go. It is important to have a slow sinking lure since most park district or forest preserve bodies of water are rather shallow and full of vegetation, near the very mucky bottom. If you used a diving or heavy lure such as a crankbait, you will spend the majority of your fifteen minutes removing algae, weeds and other debris from your lure. The slow sinking rabbit hair wacky worm will sink and find the proper depth for you. You will enjoy yourself immensely and have a much better chance of success if your lure is spends a majority of its time fishing rather than snagging.
It can be extremely challenging finding the time to do some quality bank fishing let alone catch some fish with your favorite bass fishing lure, but with a little time management and planning, you will find that there is way to hit and run for bass.
courtesy of Fishing.US
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
BASS Federation news blog from BASS Masters Magazine, Bassmasters.com
February 13, 2008
Rhode Island Renaissance
BASS Federation Nation Youth Senior Manager Stacy Twiggs, author
Aside from those die-hard ice fisherman, most of us thin-blooded bass fisherman are grinding our teeth into tiny Chiclets® as we eagerly await the approaching fishing season. The promise of warmer weather and giant bass has every serious bass fisherman chomping at the bit and slobbering over some new secret gizmo bait or unexploited fishing technique. The season of snow leaves plenty of time to prep for the promise of spring, but it's also the most popular time for state BASS Federation Nations to host their annual awards banquets and general membership meetings. My recent trip to the smallest state in the country revealed a spirit bigger than the Montana sky.
The Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation annual awards banquet has flourished over the years and become a fine example of the BFN founding principles. A collaborative effort designed to unite their members brings together adult and youth for a special combined awards banquet. Both adult and junior state teams come together to celebrate the past year's accomplishments complete with award presentations and enough pictures to keep Kodak busy until next year's banquet.
Imagine a large group of peers applauding a select team of adult anglers being presented with awards and confirmation of their upcoming trip to the BFN Divisional. Now take a moment to envision the same room interspersed with Junior Bassmasters, fully complemented with decorated jerseys and cheering for their adult mentors. Twenty minutes later, when the roles were reversed, every person in the banquet hall was standing with applause equally flattering for the Junior Bassmasters receiving their awards.
The principle behind a combined banquet is a noble mark of respect for both the adult and youth programs, but it's also a tribute to their goal of integrating their two programs together to the best of their ability. To see the Rhode Island adult state team members along with other adults show the same admiration for their young anglers was an extremely gratifying experience.
In addition to recognizing youth and adult state teams, they honored Rod Hammond with one of the greatest distinctions any BASS member can earn. After reading through a long list of accomplishments they presented Mr. Hammond with the Rhode Island BFN Sportsman of the Year Award. The Northern Rhode Island BASS Anglers were also recognized as Team Club Champions. The club competed the weekend after Independence Day with 8 anglers (4 boaters and 4 non-boaters) competing in a team format where all 8 weights combined together to determine the Team Club Champions. In a theme consistent with the spirit of the Rhode Island BFN, Junior Bassmaster clubs can also team up with their adult sponsoring club to compete in the same event.
This was the second year the state conducted a joint banquet. "The event represents a special opportunity to show appreciation for the people who roll their sleeves up and make things happen within the state," said Roy Costa, Rhode Island BFN president. "There's no way we can possibly thank everyone, but their contributions and support are never taken for granted."
The adult and junior state teams help set up the banquet, hang banners and conduct various fund raisers. Raffle proceeds from the banquet raise money to help support the adult state team as they advance to divisional competition. On the youth side, proceeds go toward funding an entire year's worth of activities, events and awards. "We're very thankful and proud of the support the adults provide to the youth program and their support as boat captains for our events," said Mike Broggi, Rhode Island BFN Youth Director.
Looking across the room, I recognized a familiar face and past Bassmaster Classic qualifier, Joel St. Germain. Bearing the same smile he always has, you could see his support for the youth. He graciously shared products from his personal sponsorships, contributing what he could to the entire Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation. "He's been an unbelievable supporter of the organization and is always willing to contribute," said Costa.
The Rhode Island BFN has worked tirelessly to integrate the youth and adult programs. Broggi is extremely gracious for the overwhelming adult support of the state youth efforts. "Fundraisers like the annual awards banquet help the Rhode Island Junior Bassmaster program fund its annual activities without leaning on the adult treasury," said Broggi.
As I prepared to head back for Florida, Costa proudly reminded me of how special the past year had been. "It's been a great year for the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation! We hosted the 2007 Eastern Divisional, and the state team stepped up to make it a successful event for all the Eastern Division states in attendance. The team helped coordinate, organize and step up wherever needed."
One glimpse of the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation and you know that the next 35 years of this grassroots organization is in prepared and well-groomed hands.
Article from Bassmaster.com
Rhode Island Renaissance
BASS Federation Nation Youth Senior Manager Stacy Twiggs, author
Aside from those die-hard ice fisherman, most of us thin-blooded bass fisherman are grinding our teeth into tiny Chiclets® as we eagerly await the approaching fishing season. The promise of warmer weather and giant bass has every serious bass fisherman chomping at the bit and slobbering over some new secret gizmo bait or unexploited fishing technique. The season of snow leaves plenty of time to prep for the promise of spring, but it's also the most popular time for state BASS Federation Nations to host their annual awards banquets and general membership meetings. My recent trip to the smallest state in the country revealed a spirit bigger than the Montana sky.
The Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation annual awards banquet has flourished over the years and become a fine example of the BFN founding principles. A collaborative effort designed to unite their members brings together adult and youth for a special combined awards banquet. Both adult and junior state teams come together to celebrate the past year's accomplishments complete with award presentations and enough pictures to keep Kodak busy until next year's banquet.
Imagine a large group of peers applauding a select team of adult anglers being presented with awards and confirmation of their upcoming trip to the BFN Divisional. Now take a moment to envision the same room interspersed with Junior Bassmasters, fully complemented with decorated jerseys and cheering for their adult mentors. Twenty minutes later, when the roles were reversed, every person in the banquet hall was standing with applause equally flattering for the Junior Bassmasters receiving their awards.
The principle behind a combined banquet is a noble mark of respect for both the adult and youth programs, but it's also a tribute to their goal of integrating their two programs together to the best of their ability. To see the Rhode Island adult state team members along with other adults show the same admiration for their young anglers was an extremely gratifying experience.
In addition to recognizing youth and adult state teams, they honored Rod Hammond with one of the greatest distinctions any BASS member can earn. After reading through a long list of accomplishments they presented Mr. Hammond with the Rhode Island BFN Sportsman of the Year Award. The Northern Rhode Island BASS Anglers were also recognized as Team Club Champions. The club competed the weekend after Independence Day with 8 anglers (4 boaters and 4 non-boaters) competing in a team format where all 8 weights combined together to determine the Team Club Champions. In a theme consistent with the spirit of the Rhode Island BFN, Junior Bassmaster clubs can also team up with their adult sponsoring club to compete in the same event.
This was the second year the state conducted a joint banquet. "The event represents a special opportunity to show appreciation for the people who roll their sleeves up and make things happen within the state," said Roy Costa, Rhode Island BFN president. "There's no way we can possibly thank everyone, but their contributions and support are never taken for granted."
The adult and junior state teams help set up the banquet, hang banners and conduct various fund raisers. Raffle proceeds from the banquet raise money to help support the adult state team as they advance to divisional competition. On the youth side, proceeds go toward funding an entire year's worth of activities, events and awards. "We're very thankful and proud of the support the adults provide to the youth program and their support as boat captains for our events," said Mike Broggi, Rhode Island BFN Youth Director.
Looking across the room, I recognized a familiar face and past Bassmaster Classic qualifier, Joel St. Germain. Bearing the same smile he always has, you could see his support for the youth. He graciously shared products from his personal sponsorships, contributing what he could to the entire Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation. "He's been an unbelievable supporter of the organization and is always willing to contribute," said Costa.
The Rhode Island BFN has worked tirelessly to integrate the youth and adult programs. Broggi is extremely gracious for the overwhelming adult support of the state youth efforts. "Fundraisers like the annual awards banquet help the Rhode Island Junior Bassmaster program fund its annual activities without leaning on the adult treasury," said Broggi.
As I prepared to head back for Florida, Costa proudly reminded me of how special the past year had been. "It's been a great year for the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation! We hosted the 2007 Eastern Divisional, and the state team stepped up to make it a successful event for all the Eastern Division states in attendance. The team helped coordinate, organize and step up wherever needed."
One glimpse of the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation and you know that the next 35 years of this grassroots organization is in prepared and well-groomed hands.
Article from Bassmaster.com
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