bass fishing tips

When it comes to bass fishing, or any other type of fishing for that matter, there is no shortage of products people will try to market to you. They have every color of lure and jig imaginable, spinning reels, baitcasting reels, rods of all different lengths and materials and the list goes on. The aim of a bass angler is to have the right bass fishing equipment for the job. The trouble is that the job is constantly changing. Anglers have to walk the fine line between being equipped for everything and not breaking the bank to do it. This article will provide some useful insight on what kind of bass fishing gear equipment is right for you so you can be prepared for as much as possible with your particular budget.

Have you ever wondered how T.V. fisherman can land fish after fish all day? Obviously a big part of that is that they know the behavior patterns of their fish like the back of their hand, but most people don't realize how much preparation goes into their gear. T.V. anglers have at least 5 or 6 rods already set up with whatever lures and jig rigs they think they might need for the day. That way if they encounter a change in the weather or if the fish just stop biting whatever they're using, they can switch it up in a second. Think of how much time you've wasted on the water tying knots, assembling rigs and changing lures? Now obviously it's not in the budget to go to the extreme with your bass fishing equipment that the professionals do, but even having just one baitcasting rod and one spincasting at the same time can make a world of difference. Consider this: it's a bright sunny day with very little wind in mid afternoon, therefore you're focusing your efforts in somewhat deeper water where the bass will be to get away from the heat and brightness of the sun. You're trolling a crankbait on a spincast rod and reel with moderate success when the weather suddenly changes. It turns cloudy, the wind picks up and all of the sudden you're not getting any strikes. Instead of spending 15 minutes setting up a Carolina rig to fish the shallows with, you just grab your baitcaster with the rig already set up and go. Say your Carolina rig isn't getting results and you want to try a top water popper, you can just take that crankbait off your spinning rod and throw on the popper. That way you won't create another 10 minute job for yourself next time you want to use the jig rig. It's still there, all set up for whenever you want to use it again.

Now if you're not too concerned with maximizing your time, you can always improve your effectiveness by diversifying your bass fishing equipment. Having a well rounded tackle box allows you to take advantage of different situations. I wont get in to what exactly you should be doing in these situations, I have other published articles about that, but for now I will say that having something you can use in shallow or deep, bright or dark, still or calm conditions will greatly improve your chances. I like to have a couple crankbaits of different colors, a top water lure or two, a jerkbait, some various colored spinners and an assortment of soft plastic worms and jigs. With that you should be covered, providing you know where and when to fish them. And even if you don't, you would at least have more to work with. It also helps to have a good assortment of colors.

Another great piece of bass fishing equipment is a fish finder. While not essential, a fish finder can provide you with invaluable information about water depth, structure and even the fish underneath you. If you're looking for a great item to add to your bass fishing equipment collection, perhaps its time to purchase a fish finder.

A great way to start out bass fishing is to purchase a combination package of bass fishing equipment such as the kind at ChampionBassFishing.com. There you can find packages that come pre-selected with a variety of bass fishing equipment so that you can get started immediately. These packages not only contain absolutely everything you need to start fishing but are designed by bass anglers for bass anglers. You can find lure combinations, rod and reel combos and even entire bass fishing packages made for the beginner or veteran alike. Beginner packages have everything you need to start and all packages are designed to provide you with a very diverse range of bass fishing equipment. There is no better place to find exactly what you need for a low price.

Be sure to check out http://www.championbassfishing.com for bass fishing equipment as well as videos, articles and more on everything you could want to know about bass fishing. Champion Bass Fishing is made by bass anglers for bass anglers!

Choosing the right bass fishing lure at the right time to catch the right bass can be one of the most difficult things to do. Let's face it there are hundreds of different lures in hundreds of different colors and sizes. What lure are you using to catch bass may be the most asked question when you are out fishing. At the very least we tend to keep one eye on what bass lure the competition has tied to the end of their rod.

If you are serious about catching bass you most likely have three or more rods already set up with your favorite lures ready to cast into that weed bed or drop off. One with your favorite spinnerbait, one with your favorite top water lure and your favorite crankbait and probably a fourth one with that favorite plastic worm rigged up in your favorite style. We choose these bass fishing lures because they are the basic year round successful bass fishing lures around.

Using spinnerbaits is easy and fast, covering a lot of water at many different depths to find and attract the bass. Keep in mind that bass are schooling fish and once you get a strike you can fish out the area using the other baits of your choice. Fish it fast with the spinnerbait and crankbait then drop in your plastic worm with a little finesse and wiggle.

Crankbaits is another easy and fast fishing lure to catch bass with and if I had to choose just one fishing lure for my tackle box it would be a lip-less crankbait. I would choose the rattle noise making kind of crankbait. I would also choose one of the basic food chain colors, chartreuse, chrome, crawfish brown, or shad lures. Know what kind of bait is common in the lake or river you are fishing in and go with those colors. I was just at the sporting goods store and cannot believe the myriad of different colors available. I have a hard time fishing with a hot pink or lime green fishing lure for bass. Give me a bait fish or crawdad color and let's catch bass. Make sure you have more than one color and a tackle box full of your favorite. Nothing irks me more than losing the one lure that is catching bass and not having a back-up.

My all time favorite lure is the Rapala 6 inch shad color floating topwater cigar shaped bait. I get overly confident with this bait and even though I catch a lot of bass with it I many times over fish it and miss bass I would have caught had I chosen a different lure. Of course having confidence in your selection of lure for the conditions you are fishing is an important aspect in catching bass. However, when they are not hitting on the lure you have chosen then by all means choose another bass lure until you find the sweet spot.

On a final note, choose the right bass lure for the conditions you are fishing. If the waters are muddy then the bass will be feeding by sound then use a rattle crankbait or Colorado blades on your spinner bait in a copper or painted blade. In clear waters a good bright silver is best. Don't just throw on any old lure out there but choose the best bass lure for the clarity of the water and the type of food available in other words, give some thought to where and what to fish with.

"Remember even a bad day fishing is better than any day working unless your work is fishing then every day is a good day!"

Dennis has been fishing mainly for bass for over 45 years. His website http://www.bassfishingfundamentals.com is loaded with great stuff for fishing. Dennis has started a great new web 2.0 site dedicated to Bass Fishing complete with videos, forum and chat go here My Bass Fishing Space

Fish The Right Plastic For The Condition

When choosing which plastic bait to use, you must factor in the conditions you're fishing under, such as, water clarity, cover, temperature, sky conditions and the size of bass you want to catch.

You also want to know what the fish are feeding on and try to imitate it. Why fish a 10 inch worm if the fish are feeding on 3 inch shad? If the water is clear fish smaller lures with less action. The fish feed by sight more than sound in these conditions. In stained water fish creature baits where the legs and tails are moving. Also, worms with swimming tails are good too, it helps the bass find the lure.

In cold water use a more subtle lure like tubes and straight tailed worms that glide. Try a light color lure in clear skies and clear water, and a dark color lure in stained water and around dark. They make a better shadow than light colored lures.

For flippin and pitching try a crayfish, lizards or tubes.
Smaller lures will produce a lot more strikes but larger lures will usually catch more quality fish.

We all have a lure that is our favorite and it's hard not to use it at every lake. But if you want to catch fish consistently, then you need to fish the right lure for the conditions.

I always wondered if it really made a difference in which bass fishing rods I chose when I was looking to buy my next set up. I just tended to go on size and what kind of reel I was going to use, spinning or bait casting. But I wanted to understand what exactly was meant by the power and action of a rod and how they affect my fishing.

Most fishing rods are made of either fiberglass or graphite. Graphite is lighter and stiffer than fiberglass making them the preferred type for most people.

First thing is to make sure you are looking at a rod that is going to fit the type of fishing reel you plan on using. Spin and Bait Casting rods are built differently than a rod for a Spinning reel. If you need to know about reels go back to our Bass Tackle page and you can get that info there.

Spin and Bait casting rods have a place to mount your spin or bait casting reel on top of the rod and can usually be identified by a forefinger grip. They have small guides through which the fishing line is fed. These are considered more powerful than the spinning rods as they can handle heavier line and heavier cover.

On a spinning rod, the spinning reel is mounted below the rod rather than on the top which usually makes for a more comfortable experience. Other characteristics of these fishing rods include a cork or foam handle, line guides that decrease in size from the reel to the tip of the rod. This rod is favored by those that like still fishing with live bait. They can range in size from 5 to 9 feet. Any larger than this are considered to be more of a surf fishing rod.

*Bass Pro Shops has some great deals on bass fishing rods. Check them out by clicking one of the pics below.

Action

As for what is labeled as the action of bass fishing rods, this refers to the responsiveness of the rod and is classified as either fast or slow action. There is no set standard so this is very subjective and can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Fast action rods are more sensitive than slow action. This allows many advantages to the fisherman such as being easier to feel the fish take the lure or bait. The sensitivity also makes it easier to feel what the lure is doing, especially in the case of knowing when the lure has reached the bottom. Fast action also makes it easier to set the hook as less of the rod needs to bend during this action.

Advantages of a slow action rod include a softer, gentler cast. Also they are easier to use with lighter fishing line as they are more forgiving with their greater bend and are less likely to snap your line. Their lack of sensitivity may help the beginning angler from trying to set the hook too quickly and taking the bait away before the bass has had a chance to truly strike.

The Power or Weight of fishing rods is used to describe the power of the rod as it pertains to the size of the fish it is made to handle.

Manufacturers will typically use a range of anywhere from Ultralight to Extra Heavy to describe the power of a rod. These too can be subjective and vary from each manufacturer.

The easiest way to think about this is to just go for something that describes the size of the bass you are going after. Is it a white bass you are looking to catch, in which a light duty rod will work or are you heading after some stripers and will need that heavy rod.

Another area where the choices may seem endless. Drastic differences in lengths indicate fishing rods suited for different environments. Your longer sturdier rods being for surf casting or casting long distances from the bank of a lake. While your shorter medium action/power rods are your typical freshwater fishing gear. And your extra heavy, short rods could generally be used to go after the big fish of the ocean. Since they are thicker and shorter they are ready for the big fight of a strong, big fish.

When comparing rods close in length, it is possible to have two rods labeled as the same weight or power and be different lengths. In this case, go with what you are comfortable with. Longer rods cast farther and are generally more accurate. Shorter rods are easier to control and easier to cast in those tight spaces.

Other things to consider when deciding on any bass fishing rods include the weight of the line it can handle and the lure size it can handle. If you go beyond the stated limits, your bass fishing gear may not fish correctly or worse, you could damage or break your rod.

A lot to consider when you are looking for bass fishing rods and hopefully we were able to shed some light and help out.

Make sure you go check out the rest of the Bass Tackle page for more on your bass fishing gear including what reels to use with these bass fishing rods.

Return from Bass Fishing Rods to the Bass-Fishing-Source home page.

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B.A.S.S announced Nate Wellman will not be fishing the 2011 Bassmaster Classic but will be able to fish the Elites in 2012. Good call on the part of B.A.S.S  (I say), no matter what side of the isle your hanging out on these days you have to agree the $2500 dollar fine and year probation was just a slap on the wrist. With PAA & FLW cracking down on the dude it made B.A.S.S look pretty weak (in my opinion). Already I am hearing grumblings that they still did not do enough and he should be banned for life. The fact that Nate did not volunteer for a polygraph test did not help his case… We can all wait and speculate what the 2012 Elite series will bring his way. I’m thinking its not going to be to good. A wise old guy once gave me this advice: “The one thing nobody can take from you is your credibility and reputation. Only you can destroy those things.”

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There are some options when choosing bass fishing reels to pair up with your fishing rod or when looking for a rod and reel combo. Here is some info on the most common types of reels for bass fishing or any other fishing for that matter.

Bait Casting Reel

This is the most difficult bass fishing reel to learn how to use but offers the most advantages in the way of accuracy and strength. Like the spin casters, they have a push button to release the line but that's where the similarities end.

You must build up your feel of this type of reel as it is guided by your thumb while the line is being cast out. Knowing how much pressure to apply and when to stop are learned skills and can vary from one bait caster to the next.

The most common problem for the inexperienced user is the dreaded back lash. There are ways to minimize this problem by adjusting the brake that comes on these reels but most of all learning to use these reels just involves practice but the payoff will be great once you get the hang of it.

Check out the baitcaster videos to get some insight into these outfits.

If you think you're ready, check out the deals on these bait casters and other bass fishing reels talked about on this page that we have searched the web for so you don't have to.

This is your basic fishing reel that most will be familiar with. There's a good chance that you fished with this type of reel when you first started out as a kid. This push button reel is probably the easiest to learn to use and manage which makes it ideal for the youngsters. Now this is not to say that adults can't or don't use this type of reel. There are plenty of people who just prefer spin casters and that is perfectly fine. Whatever works for you and is comfortable to use, then use it.

The spin caster works by pressing and holding the button to disengage the line from the spool and then releasing the button as you bring the rod forward for your cast. Once your line lands, you lock the reel by moving the reel handle until you hear a click. Reel in as normal with the handle whenever you are ready.

Click on an image to see these quality spin casters at Bass Pro Shops

This is the most widely used type of reel and would be considered the next easiest to use after the spin caster. The spinning outfit is especially popular with those that like to still fish with dead or live bait. It is also the choice outfit for those anglers that enjoy surf fishing.

This reel hangs below the rod and reels line onto an open face spool that is perpendicular to the rod. It is used by flipping its bail open while holding on to the line then casting and reengaging the bail to reel in.

Here are some great spinning reels from Bass Pro Shops. Just click on an image

Now that you know about bass fishing reels make sure you check out the rest of our info on other fishing tackle and gear including rods on our Bass Fishing Tackle page.

Return from Bass Fishing Reels to the Bass Fishing Source home page.

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When you think of bass fishing tackle what are some of the things that typically come to mind?

For me right off the bat I am thinking, of course, a tackle box full of a variety of lures, a fishing rod and reel and fishing line. But there is so much other gear out there that can make your bass fishing trip much more enjoyable. In some cases your gear can make the difference between landing that trophy bass or just coming back with a story about the one that got away.

We got a list for you to make sure your bass fishing tackle needs are covered, but more on that later. Let's start at the beginning.

Check out some of the best deals on bass fishing reels and other equipment we have compiled for you from all across the web from some of the best names in fishing.

So, to mention the obvious, the first thing you'll want to grab for a day of bass fishing is that rod and reel. Now if you are into fishing, you know this is easier said than done. Spin caster, Bait caster and Spinning; Medium to Heavy action; fast or slow speed, there are so many options to decide on but what do they all mean? Take a look at what the different bass fishing reels have to offer and how to choose a bass fishing rod to go with them and suit your type of fishing.

Check out the line of G Loomis Rods

Having an assortment of bass lures available is a must for giving you the best chance of having a great day on the water. Now if you have a well stocked tackle box and you have the opportunity to take it with you on a boat then no harm in carrying it all with you. But if you plan on moving around doing some shore fishing and need the ability to be mobile, carrying around a 10 pound tackle box isn't going to be the best idea. If you can get it down to just a few lures to load up, your travels will be that much easier.

Some of the "must haves" include:

Couple these with your standard bass fishing tackle box items of hooks, weights and swivels and you should have all you need to take on whatever you looking to land.

Some of the most overlooked bass fishing gear you'll want to consider taking with you is listed below.

For the bank fishers some of these could prove useful also.

For more on freshwater gear visit www.lets-go-fishing.org

Go from bass fishing tackle to the Bass-Fishing-Source home page.

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There are some options when choosing bass fishing reels to pair up with your fishing rod or when looking for a rod and reel combo. Here is some info on the most common types of reels for bass fishing or any other fishing for that matter.

Bait Casting Reel

This is the most difficult bass fishing reel to learn how to use but offers the most advantages in the way of accuracy and strength. Like the spin casters, they have a push button to release the line but that's where the similarities end.

You must build up your feel of this type of reel as it is guided by your thumb while the line is being cast out. Knowing how much pressure to apply and when to stop are learned skills and can vary from one bait caster to the next.

The most common problem for the inexperienced user is the dreaded back lash. There are ways to minimize this problem by adjusting the brake that comes on these reels but most of all learning to use these reels just involves practice but the payoff will be great once you get the hang of it.

Check out the baitcaster videos to get some insight into these outfits.

If you think you're ready, check out the deals on these bait casters and other bass fishing reels talked about on this page that we have searched the web for so you don't have to.

This is your basic fishing reel that most will be familiar with. There's a good chance that you fished with this type of reel when you first started out as a kid. This push button reel is probably the easiest to learn to use and manage which makes it ideal for the youngsters. Now this is not to say that adults can't or don't use this type of reel. There are plenty of people who just prefer spin casters and that is perfectly fine. Whatever works for you and is comfortable to use, then use it.

The spin caster works by pressing and holding the button to disengage the line from the spool and then releasing the button as you bring the rod forward for your cast. Once your line lands, you lock the reel by moving the reel handle until you hear a click. Reel in as normal with the handle whenever you are ready.

Click on an image to see these quality spin casters at Bass Pro Shops

This is the most widely used type of reel and would be considered the next easiest to use after the spin caster. The spinning outfit is especially popular with those that like to still fish with dead or live bait. It is also the choice outfit for those anglers that enjoy surf fishing.

This reel hangs below the rod and reels line onto an open face spool that is perpendicular to the rod. It is used by flipping its bail open while holding on to the line then casting and reengaging the bail to reel in.

Here are some great spinning reels from Bass Pro Shops. Just click on an image

Now that you know about bass fishing reels make sure you check out the rest of our info on other fishing tackle and gear including rods on our Bass Fishing Tackle page.

Return from Bass Fishing Reels to the Bass Fishing Source home page.

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