I want to wish all of my readers a happy and safe new year with lots and lots of fish!
Enjoy this little fishing cartoon:
reade more...
Enjoy this little fishing cartoon:
How to clean a fish: Video (Fish Recipe)
Herb barbecued fish
Squeamish warning
This is actually a fish recipe for herb barbecued fish, but the first part perfectly shows how to clean a fish for the table. This is something that new fishers often have trouble with and I thought that it would be helpful to post a video of the process. I am hoping to find a video of the proper filleting process too - so keep checking back for that in the future.
If you watch the whole way through you will also find a great recipe for barbecued fish that I have personally tried and enjoyed. In my opinion nothing beats a whole fish cooked on the BBQ with herbs, spices, garlic and ginger YUM!
reade more...
Squeamish warning
This is actually a fish recipe for herb barbecued fish, but the first part perfectly shows how to clean a fish for the table. This is something that new fishers often have trouble with and I thought that it would be helpful to post a video of the process. I am hoping to find a video of the proper filleting process too - so keep checking back for that in the future.
If you watch the whole way through you will also find a great recipe for barbecued fish that I have personally tried and enjoyed. In my opinion nothing beats a whole fish cooked on the BBQ with herbs, spices, garlic and ginger YUM!
Fly Fishing Tips - Woolly Bugger Lure
Uses
Woolly Buggers imitate lots of different trout food:
- dragonfly nymphs,
- damselfly nymphs,
- leeches,
- baitfish,
- Anything that might be alive and edible.
If you fish lakes, you should have lots of these in your box, with a mix of colors and sizes. They can also be effective in rivers.
How to Fish
Count-down-and-retrieve or slow retrieve. Vary the retrieve until you find what works best at the moment: slow and steady, fast, strip-and-pause, or quick, short two-inch strips. Also, wind-drifting works well in lakes.
Fish at all depths until you find the right one, but most of the time you should be fishing somewhere between two to six feet deep.
Video Tips
Boat Ramp Etiquette
I found this great little article during my web surfing this morning and thought I would share it with my readers. I recommend reading the whole fishing and boating article here.
A good day on the water can be spoiled by a lack of ‘boat ramp etiquette’. This refers to someone who has insufficient consideration or understanding for other ramp users, isn’t prepared and takes too long to either launch or retrieve a vessel.
LAUNCHING
Prepare your boat before approaching the ramp. This includes loading all gear, checking fuel, removing tie-downs, fitting bungs, turning on battery switch, finding the key, etc. There is nothing more frustrating for other boat ramp users than watching someone drive onto the apron of the ramp and begin doing all the above jobs whilst everyone waits.
When you boat is completely ready to launch, get in line and wait for your turn to use the ramp.
Always check a boat ramp before reversing down it. Check for length of ramp, drop-offs, etc.
Carefully back down the ramp and get the boat in the water quickly and calmly.
When launching use a long rope secured to the bow to control the boat and clear other boats and trailers. On larger boats an additional rope on the stern will assist in windy or wash conditions.
Have someone on board to immediately start the boat and/or move it way from the ramp so the next person can proceed. Park your car and return to your waiting boat that has been moved away from the ramp (the sand or nearby jetty) is a good option.
RETRIEVING
Extra care and patience are needed when returning to the ramp at the end of the day. Tempers can fray easily after a day of sun and excitement. Children will be tired. Alcohol can cause unhelpful behaviour so try to stay calm and be as prepared as you possibly can.
Organise your gear whilst underway back to the ramp, not once you get there.
Approach slowly in congested areas for the safety of yourself and others.
Queue on a sandy beach if possible or make sure you identify who is before and after you. Honest mistakes can occur but good communication prevents unnecessary aggravation and “pushing-in”.
Unload passengers and have someone get the car and trailer and wait in the car queue until it is your turn, whilst you stay with the boat.
When it is your turn, move quickly and carefully to get the boat out of the water.
After retrieval, immediately move well away from the ramp before unloading gear and preparing the boat and trailer for the trip home.
Check tyres, lights, tie-downs, wheel bearings and couplings before leaving home and on arrival and departure at the ramp, also at any stops on the way (check bearings by touching the hub with the back of the hand - if too hot to touch - the bearing has failed).
As a quick check on the bearings, jack the trailer and spin the wheel. Any noise or roughness indicates trouble.
Boating Knots: Anchor Bend
Ok this isn't a fishing knot in the normal sense of a word, but is a knot every fisher that uses a boat and anchor should know. The Anchor Bend knot is used for connecting the anchor rope to the boat, which is probably one of the most important knots on the boat! It is easy to tie and is a very secure and safe knot for attaching the anchor.
reade more...
Top Water Bass Fishing - Stanley Ribbit (Video)
I must admit top water fishing is fairly popular in Australia, but is no where near as popular as it seems to be in the US bass circles. This video shows off a new lure called the Stanley Ribbit and from all reports the lure is taking the top water bass fishing by storm. The lure seem to have an awesome action. After watching this video I have decided the next time I visit my local tackle store I am going to look for one or something similar. I am sure they will work on our Aussie fish too. Enjoy!
reade more...
My fishing list - All I got for Christmas
My fishing presents this year consisted mainly of hooks, sinkers, swivels and other terminal tackle that I really needed. At todays boxing day sales I was busy helping my wife ward off the bargain hunters and I forgot to visit the fishing section of my local department store and probably missed out on a bargain or two.
What I want to know is what fishy things did you get for Christmas?
Please leave a comment via the comments button.
reade more...
What I want to know is what fishy things did you get for Christmas?
Please leave a comment via the comments button.
Fly Fishing: Fishing Cartoon
Christmas is coming up and I have no doubt that there will be a few youngsters casting for the very first time with their new rod and reel combo that Santa has brought them. This funny little cartoon reminds me of my first time casting with my Dad, although I didn't have such bad luck. Enjoy!
reade more...
Fish Recipe - Steamed fish with vegtables
As promised I have decided to post more fishing recipes for those who love to eat their catch, or for people who buy their fish (there is no shame in that!). Todays recipe is steamed fish with vegetables and is not only an extremely healthy meal, but is really easy to prepare. My wife tried this and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it (I am a fried fish type of guy). I hope this helps you with your next fish meal!
reade more...
Boating Terms and Definitions
If you are like me then, at some point, you have probably wondered what all those strange boating terms mean. When my old man told me to move to the starboard side of the boat for the first time (I was about 7 I think) I gave him a very strange look. When he explained what it meant I remember saying "why don't you just say right." That was the wrong thing to say!
If you are looking for a fantastic resource that will explain every boating term from ABAFT to YAWL then I recommend a visit to fintalk.com's boating terms and definitions.
reade more...
If you are looking for a fantastic resource that will explain every boating term from ABAFT to YAWL then I recommend a visit to fintalk.com's boating terms and definitions.
Rock fishing safety
In Australia (and probably other places as well) people are killed every year rock fishing in dangerous conditions. We can limit these tragedies by following some simple safety rules:
Thanks for the NSW department of primary industries for these great safety tips.
reade more...
Thanks for the NSW department of primary industries for these great safety tips.
- Never fish by yourself: fish in a group of at least three people and within sight of each other. If someone is washed in, one person can stay and help while the other alerts emergency services.
- Inform others of your plans: always let friends or family know where you are going and when you will be back.
- Wear light clothing: light clothing such as shorts and a spray jacket will let you swim easily if you are washed in. Jumpers may be heavy and difficult to take off.
- Wear appropriate footwear: cleats, sandals and sandshoes with non slip soles suit different surfaces. Use the appropriate shoes for the conditions.
- Carry safety gear: wear a life jacket or buoyancy vest. Also bring something buoyant that can be easily thrown and held onto, to help you stay afloat. Carry ropes and torches.
- Never fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas: make sure you are aware of local weather, swell and tidal conditions before going fishing. Listen to weather forecasts or call a weather information line. Be aware that conditions may change dramatically in a short period of time.
- Observe first, fish later: spend some time (at least 30 minutes) watching your intended spot before fishing to get an idea of the conditions over a full swell/wave cycle. Wave conditions can get worse as the tide changes - you should know whether the tides are high or low and coming in or going out.
- Plan an escape route in case you are washed in: stay calm - If you are washed in, swim away from the rocks and look for a safe place to come ashore or stay afloat and wait for help to arrive.
- Stay alert. Don't ever turn your back on the sea: if the waves, weather or swell threaten your fishing spot then leave immediately.
- Ask for advice from locals who know the area: they can advise you of good, safe fishing locations.
Fisher wearing a life jacket
Fishing Video - trout and pike with an infaltable boat (float tube)
Now where I live we have crocodiles, big ones, ones that tip over small boats and attack outboard motors. So I wouldn't be trying what the guy in this video does where I live, but I am sure it is a lot of fun when the fear of crocodile attack is far away (the loch ness monster may be another story though). The feet dangling from the bottom absolutely blows my mind - I cant even imagine doing that!
Seriously this video has some great trout and pike fishing action and even though it is long it is professionally done and easy to watch. You will have to visit the youtube to see this video
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=yZaWojSz9es
reade more...
Seriously this video has some great trout and pike fishing action and even though it is long it is professionally done and easy to watch. You will have to visit the youtube to see this video
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=yZaWojSz9es
Fishing joke of the week
Unfortunately I have been sick this week and didn't get to go fishing as planned, so in the space where I would have told you how my fishing trip went here is a little joke to brighten your day.
Fishing Joke
No one in this town could catch any fish except this one man
The game warden asked him how he did it so the man told the game warden that he would take him fishing the next day...
Once they got to the middle of the lake the man took out a stick of dynamite, lit it, and threw it in the water. After the explosion fish started floating to the top of the water. The man took out a net and started picking up the fish.
The game warden told him that this was illegal. The man took out another stick of dynamite and lit it. He then handed it to the game warden and said " are you going to fish or talk?"
reade more...
Fishing Joke
No one in this town could catch any fish except this one man
The game warden asked him how he did it so the man told the game warden that he would take him fishing the next day...
Once they got to the middle of the lake the man took out a stick of dynamite, lit it, and threw it in the water. After the explosion fish started floating to the top of the water. The man took out a net and started picking up the fish.
The game warden told him that this was illegal. The man took out another stick of dynamite and lit it. He then handed it to the game warden and said " are you going to fish or talk?"
Fishing Knots and Rigs: Trilene Knot
The Trilene Knot is a strong reliable connection that resists slippage and failure.
The Trilene Knot is an all-purpose connection to be used in joining monofilament or fluorocarbon to swivels, snaps, hooks and artificial lures. The knot's unique design and ease of tying mean that it is a consistently strong knot with dependable connections. This knot retains 85-90% of the original line strength, which is above average. The double wrap of mono through the eyelet provides a protective cushion for added safety.
reade more...
The Trilene Knot is an all-purpose connection to be used in joining monofilament or fluorocarbon to swivels, snaps, hooks and artificial lures. The knot's unique design and ease of tying mean that it is a consistently strong knot with dependable connections. This knot retains 85-90% of the original line strength, which is above average. The double wrap of mono through the eyelet provides a protective cushion for added safety.
Fish Recipe - Fried fish with rosemary
I thought I would post something a little bit different today and include a video for a fish recipe. This is one of my personal favorite recipes and is also a much more healthy way of frying fish. You can use many species of fish for this recipe. It takes about 5-7 minutes and is so simple that even I can do it.
I am thinking about more posts like this one. If you like this type of post then tell me about it with a comment!
reade more...
I am thinking about more posts like this one. If you like this type of post then tell me about it with a comment!
Fishing Video: King Salmon
This is an amazing video and really shows that fish are far from the top of the food chain. I have caught many fish that have come up as a half only, but I have nothing on what happened to this guy!!
Luckily the whale wasn't hooked, as I can only imagine the consequences of handling or gaffing such a beast!
reade more...
Luckily the whale wasn't hooked, as I can only imagine the consequences of handling or gaffing such a beast!
Fishing Knots and Rigs: Rapala Knot
The Rapala Knot is popular method to tie a lure to a line. It has the advantage of allowing the lures to move freely and unimpeded by the knot. It can be tied successfully in monofilament and fluorocarbon leaders.
This knot was invented by the Rapala company
Fly Fishing Tips - Fishing the Flats
I found this great article that I thought I would share it with my readers - If you are into fly fishing I recommend reading the complete article:
The flats are the shallow margins of the sea, fertile places where fish come in to feed, or cross over on their way to deeper water and other feeding grounds. The flats are significant for fly fishermen because much of the fishing involved on them is sight fishing and because of the tackle you can use on them. Fly fishing does have some limitations and the flats, apart from presenting you with many challenges, is the place where some of those limitations are the least apparent. Flats are found right around the country and can vary from offshore sandcays to gently sloping beaches. Flats species can be as varied as where we live - bream, and flathead are just two in the south and in the tropics they can range from longtail tuna to barra and permit. Where ever the flats you plan to fish are, there are some fundamental principle to successfully fishing them.
Most fish in shallow water are going to be shy and you have to see them before they see you- Polarised sunglasses are essential. Everyone has their favourite colour and brand and I prefer glasses in the red end of the spectrum - copper and tan are excellent. For me these provide the strongest contrast between the fish and the bottom and remove the blue light of the sky. Clear blue sunny days are obviously the best. I've used many different sunnies over the years, but the Aussie made Stalkers, are the best glasses I've ever used. A broad brimmed hat that shuts out most light is also important. I'm not at all a fan of baseball caps - some specially made peaked caps are good, and its important that the hat has a dark underside to the brim...
Read the complete fishing article
reade more...
The flats are the shallow margins of the sea, fertile places where fish come in to feed, or cross over on their way to deeper water and other feeding grounds. The flats are significant for fly fishermen because much of the fishing involved on them is sight fishing and because of the tackle you can use on them. Fly fishing does have some limitations and the flats, apart from presenting you with many challenges, is the place where some of those limitations are the least apparent. Flats are found right around the country and can vary from offshore sandcays to gently sloping beaches. Flats species can be as varied as where we live - bream, and flathead are just two in the south and in the tropics they can range from longtail tuna to barra and permit. Where ever the flats you plan to fish are, there are some fundamental principle to successfully fishing them.
Most fish in shallow water are going to be shy and you have to see them before they see you- Polarised sunglasses are essential. Everyone has their favourite colour and brand and I prefer glasses in the red end of the spectrum - copper and tan are excellent. For me these provide the strongest contrast between the fish and the bottom and remove the blue light of the sky. Clear blue sunny days are obviously the best. I've used many different sunnies over the years, but the Aussie made Stalkers, are the best glasses I've ever used. A broad brimmed hat that shuts out most light is also important. I'm not at all a fan of baseball caps - some specially made peaked caps are good, and its important that the hat has a dark underside to the brim...
Read the complete fishing article
Simple paternoster rig
I have been looking for a video that explains a paternoster or dropper rig in a simple way for a long time. While this video isn't perfect (I don't really trust simple overhand knots on the main leader) it does explain the rig and how versatile it really is. I use a variant of this rig for reef fishing - I tie about 5 spare leaders and put them in clip lock bags before going out on the boat and it is a simple matter of re-tying after you get broken off or snagged.
If you are looking for a quick, versatile and reliable rig then I recommend watching the video.
reade more...
If you are looking for a quick, versatile and reliable rig then I recommend watching the video.
Fishing Video: Lake Decker Bass
I found this great little video this morning with some real fishing action and thought I would share it with my readers. I have never visited the US or caught a bass (excluding an Australian bass), but I still love watching these videos. I could argue that there are better fighters or bigger fish, but the bass is a fishing icon and nothing can take away from what this great sportsfish has done for fishing.
I remember talking to a fishing guide who spent some time in the US. Asking him what he enjoyed most about his trip he had one word - bass. From then on I realised that this fish was something special.
Enjoy
reade more...
I remember talking to a fishing guide who spent some time in the US. Asking him what he enjoyed most about his trip he had one word - bass. From then on I realised that this fish was something special.
Enjoy
Fishing Tips: Landing that big fish
A lot of fish are lost due to poor landing techniques. The first job is to clear the boats floor. Get the hoses, buckets, brushes, lures, and other rods out of the area. You don't want anything in your way while fighting, gaffing, or boating a fish.
Next, communicate! Crew and angler should talk to each other, especially if they're not used to fishing together. Landing a big fish is a team effort.
I you are the angler, yell out when you see the fish, or shout "color", and make sure the fish is under control as it comes up.
You should always stay directly in front of the fish - Remember "no angles, no tangles." You may have to make a few quick moves to keep the fish from going under the boat or tangling with another fish. Never be afraid of dipping your rod tip in the water. If the fish gets under the boat, you need to get the rod down as far as you can so the line will clear the running gear. Once the fish is under control, guide it into position and present it to the netter or gaffer. Never lift the fish's head out of the water, as this may cause it to react violently and break your off.
reade more...
Next, communicate! Crew and angler should talk to each other, especially if they're not used to fishing together. Landing a big fish is a team effort.
I you are the angler, yell out when you see the fish, or shout "color", and make sure the fish is under control as it comes up.
You should always stay directly in front of the fish - Remember "no angles, no tangles." You may have to make a few quick moves to keep the fish from going under the boat or tangling with another fish. Never be afraid of dipping your rod tip in the water. If the fish gets under the boat, you need to get the rod down as far as you can so the line will clear the running gear. Once the fish is under control, guide it into position and present it to the netter or gaffer. Never lift the fish's head out of the water, as this may cause it to react violently and break your off.
Fishing Boat - Sealegs
I was sitting in my office a couple of days ago reading my fishing magazine that had just arrived when I stumbled upon a review of the strangest looking sea craft/boat I had ever seen! So I thought I just had to share it with all my readers.
Sealegs is a New Zealand product and is basically an Amphibious Boat ie. a boat that you can drive on land, into and out of the water. Once you are in the water the legs fold up and you are in a regular boat! Its crazy, strange and extremely cool all at the same time! It would be great for a beach front land owner or someone that likes to launch their boat away from the crowds (or possibly someone that likes to fishing on the highway??) Enough with me explaining it though - you really have to see the pictures and the video!
You really have to watch the video, even if you only watch the first minute!
reade more...
Sealegs is a New Zealand product and is basically an Amphibious Boat ie. a boat that you can drive on land, into and out of the water. Once you are in the water the legs fold up and you are in a regular boat! Its crazy, strange and extremely cool all at the same time! It would be great for a beach front land owner or someone that likes to launch their boat away from the crowds (or possibly someone that likes to fishing on the highway??) Enough with me explaining it though - you really have to see the pictures and the video!
You really have to watch the video, even if you only watch the first minute!
Fish Profile - Bluefin Tuna
Typical Habitat
Bluefin are a migratory species that are believed to roam according to food availability, water temperature and spawning habits. Very little is known about their patterns. Some scientists theorize that Western Atlantic bluefin will migrate between North Carolina and New England, following schools of baitfish, until they reach sexual maturity at age four or five. After that, it is believed that they migrate to the Gulf of Mexico to spawn, and return to the NC waters in wintertime.
Angling Tips
Catching giants by rod and reel requires the largest of high quality reels spooled often with 200 lbs. test line. The two primary methods are trolling with rigged natural baits or artificial squids on spreader bars and bait fishing on anchor with live baits or chunks of local prey such as herring or mackerel. The movements of bluefin are highly variable and there are numerous ways to lose a hooked giant. Therefore, catch rates are typically low in this fishery. This fact does not diminish the enthusiasm shown among anglers. The expenditures by thousands of hopeful anglers pursuing bluefin tuna in Massachusetts is an economic force in itself. Smaller bluefin tuna are fished in similar patterns as the giants, with a downsizing of rod and reel size and line strength to match the target.
Eating Quality
If you are going to keep one for the table take care to bleed and chill your catch quickly. Tuna should be carefully gutted also soon after capture. The bright red flesh is excellent on the grill after marinating in your favorite concoction. Be sure not to over cook and dry out the flesh. This type of tuna lends itself well to sushimi and can be eaten raw using wasabi and soy to garnish and spice the ancient ritual.
Fishing - What does it mean to you?
Fishing is one of those things where you can be sitting with someone in complete silence, but never feel closer. The day my Dad came home with a boat changed our relationship forever even though I didn't realise why at the time. Recently I was sitting out on the boat with my old man, we weren't saying much, but we never really do. It got me thinking about what fishing means to me. I bet when my old man has finally left this earth these are the times I will remember the most fondly. Now don't get me wrong I love catching fish and get pretty grumpy when we have had a bad day on the water, but the bonding I have had with my Dad, will in the end be what I carry for the longest.
If you have a son or daughter take them fishing - they could do much worse with their lives than quietly passing the time on the water. I know for certain that fishing has kept me out of trouble more than once. So go on get out there - you never know where it might take you.
So that leads me to my question - what does fishing mean to you...? Feel free to leave a comment.
reade more...
If you have a son or daughter take them fishing - they could do much worse with their lives than quietly passing the time on the water. I know for certain that fishing has kept me out of trouble more than once. So go on get out there - you never know where it might take you.
So that leads me to my question - what does fishing mean to you...? Feel free to leave a comment.
Fishing Bloopers
I never know if this guy is just putting it on or he is a real a real dunce. However, I love watching his crazy stunts and laughing my head off. I am sure we can all relate to him in some way or another. I will never forget when my old man left the bungs out of the boat or when the steering was locked and we did circles about 100 meters out from the boar ramp for 5 minutes - if only I had a camera!
Enjoy this little video - if you like it leave a comment and I will post more of the silliness.
reade more...
Enjoy this little video - if you like it leave a comment and I will post more of the silliness.
Fishing Video - Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish)
In Australia we call them dolphin fish, but they come go by many other names like mahi mahi, and dorado. They are an extremely fast growing fish, which fight well above average on normal tackle often making spectacular leaps in the air. They often school around FAD's (Fish Attracting or Aggregating Device) or other floating objects and schools often remain in the same area for hours providing for some spectacular fishing.
As well as being an amazing sportsfish they are also a great eating fish and most anglers are more than happy to see one swing aboard. They often fight even harder once in the boat and can thrash about wildly. It is best to quickly get them into an ice box to cool down.
reade more...
As well as being an amazing sportsfish they are also a great eating fish and most anglers are more than happy to see one swing aboard. They often fight even harder once in the boat and can thrash about wildly. It is best to quickly get them into an ice box to cool down.
Fishing Knots and Rigs - Arbor Knot
Name: Arbor Knot
Difficulty: Easy
Uses: Attaching fishing line to the reel (spool)
The arbor knot is most often used to connect line to the spool. I have used this knot exclusively for this job since I was a boy and I have never had a problem with it. It is very easy to tie and really doesn't require much of a learning curve.
reade more...
Difficulty: Easy
Uses: Attaching fishing line to the reel (spool)
The arbor knot is most often used to connect line to the spool. I have used this knot exclusively for this job since I was a boy and I have never had a problem with it. It is very easy to tie and really doesn't require much of a learning curve.
Tips for fishing new water
I came across this article today and had to share it with my readers. It is really worth a read for any keen traveling angler. I recommend reading the complete article.
By Larry Elshere
If you love the sport of fishing, at one time or another you are going to venture out to a body of water you are not familiar with. You maybe going on vacation or pre-fishing for an up coming tournament event. It doesn't matter what species of fish you are targeting. It could be Bass, Trout, Muskie, Pike, Walleye, Cats, Pan fish or others. If you have a basic understanding of the fish, then you are going to be fine. The habit's of the fish do not very that much from one body of water to the next.
The same tackle you are presently using will be just fine. Before you venture to a new body of water, I suggest that you purchase a topographical map of the new location. Spend some time reviewing it. It is just as important for you to spend time in your living room, as it is on the water. The more time you spend in preparation reviewing the new water, the more success you well have. After you review the map and see the layout of the new water, you need to mark some areas on the map you feel will be promising.
Once you show up at the new location, have your map in hand, and talk to the tackle store and boat rental personnel, ask for their advice. They are more than happy to help you out. Ask how the fishing has been? Ask them about the species you are after, and where to go? Review the areas you have marked on your map and see if you have chosen some of the same areas. Find out what type of bait has been working the best for the fish you are after. If you don't have a lot of time to spend at the new water, you may want to hire a guide that specializes in your species...
Read the complete fishing article
reade more...
By Larry Elshere
If you love the sport of fishing, at one time or another you are going to venture out to a body of water you are not familiar with. You maybe going on vacation or pre-fishing for an up coming tournament event. It doesn't matter what species of fish you are targeting. It could be Bass, Trout, Muskie, Pike, Walleye, Cats, Pan fish or others. If you have a basic understanding of the fish, then you are going to be fine. The habit's of the fish do not very that much from one body of water to the next.
The same tackle you are presently using will be just fine. Before you venture to a new body of water, I suggest that you purchase a topographical map of the new location. Spend some time reviewing it. It is just as important for you to spend time in your living room, as it is on the water. The more time you spend in preparation reviewing the new water, the more success you well have. After you review the map and see the layout of the new water, you need to mark some areas on the map you feel will be promising.
Once you show up at the new location, have your map in hand, and talk to the tackle store and boat rental personnel, ask for their advice. They are more than happy to help you out. Ask how the fishing has been? Ask them about the species you are after, and where to go? Review the areas you have marked on your map and see if you have chosen some of the same areas. Find out what type of bait has been working the best for the fish you are after. If you don't have a lot of time to spend at the new water, you may want to hire a guide that specializes in your species...
Read the complete fishing article
Knots and Rigs - Texas Rig
I remember rigging my first soft plastic bait. After 3 failed attempts I had a soft plastic bait that looked more like something drained from the oil rather than a well presented bait. It almost ended my association with soft plastics then and there, but I persisted helped by some great videos that anglers have posted on the web. Here is one such video - Introducing the Texas rig.
The Texas rig is usually fished by throwing the soft plastic as close to cover as possible with the goal of placing the worm as close to a bass as possible. Try to let the lure enter the water with as little noise as possible and keep some controlled slack in the line as bass will commonly attack the lure while it is sinking to the bottom.
reade more...
The Texas rig is usually fished by throwing the soft plastic as close to cover as possible with the goal of placing the worm as close to a bass as possible. Try to let the lure enter the water with as little noise as possible and keep some controlled slack in the line as bass will commonly attack the lure while it is sinking to the bottom.
If the bass does not hit on the fall, let the worm rest on the bottom for a brief period and then begin to retrieve the lure in a very slow, jerk and pause motion. Be careful to always keep a little tension on the line because learning this technique is a lot about learning to differentiate between the feel of the bottom and the feel of a fish. (wikipedia)