Bass Fishing 101: How to Catch the Next Big One

Bass Fishing 101
How to Catch The Next Big One
By John Seiko
Bass Fishing 101: How To Catch The Next Big One

Learn the Basics Master and Optimize YOUR personal tangle with one of natures most worthy champions and opponents Play the anglers game of condition, circumstance, nowledge, opportunity and s ill !ynergize and !trategize" !hape YOUR OWN PERSONA APPROACH to catching Bass, #$% &'($ more, )igger, more often, consistently and regardless of conditions, considerations, and or interplay of other random factors Plan to succeed* and YOU will+ &his how to guide, will help, gi,e you )ac ground information, handy tips and pointers to ponder, consider, try, master an! ($-OY"
BASS FISHING 101
Ta"#e O$ Contents
FOREWORD - WHAT ARE WE FISHING FOR AGAIN? THE TARGET: (BASS) DEFINED....................4 INTRODUCTION - KNOWING AND GOING WHERE THE BASS ARE..........................................................9 THE BASICS OF BASS FISHING AN OVERVIEW..........................................................................................1 WATER! WEATHER! TI"ING AND OTHER ENVIRON"ENTA# AS$ECT! FACETS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR BASS FISHING............................................................................................................ % TECHNI&UES FOR BASS FISHING #IKE A $RO (WOR"S! SKI$$ING! RI$$ING! DRIFT TRO##ING! F#'RODDING)..........................................................................................................................................................44 THE ART OF ACCURATE CASTING......................................................................................................................................44 PLAYING AND LANDING FISH...........................................................................................................................................46 LURE-FISHING AND SPINNING..........................................................................................................................................48 PLASTIC WORMS...........................................................................................................................................................50 "ISTAKES AND SECRETS RE#ATED TO BASS FISHING.............................................................................%1 ST'#ES AND S$ECIA#T' BASS FISHING.........................................................................................................% SKIPPING ....................................................................................................................................................................53 RIPPING.......................................................................................................................................................................53 DRIFT TROLLING..........................................................................................................................................................54 FLY-RODDING...............................................................................................................................................................54 NIGHT AND ICE-FISHING.................................................................................................................................................54 FINA# THOUGHTS: SU""AR' AND CONC#USIONS...................................................................................%% CATCH-AND-RELEASE FISHING.........................................................................................................................................55 REFERENCES AND OTHER HAND' BOOKS ON BASS FISHING................................................................%( OTHER ON#INE #INKS AND RESOURCES.......................................................................................................%) BASS FISHING G#OSSAR' ...................................................................................................................................%9
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BASS FISHING 101
Foreword - What Are We Fishing For Again? The Target: (Bass) Defined
.hate,er the reason you had for pic ing up these pages, to learn more a)out fishing, and game fishing, specifically with an all/time angling fa,orite em)edded in the aptly titled0 Bass Fishing, 101: How To Catch The Next Big One, you are sure to find a 1uenching reprie,e+ !till your thirst for nowledge and any )ass fishing pursuit, challenge or )attle, you will or might face in your lifetime, right here+ &here is something for e,eryone in this )oo " 2f your main interest, is impro,ing your a)ility to catch Bass, increasing, 3and may)e4 e,en stac ing the odds in your fa,or of succeeding time and again, e,ery time, in this angling e1uation and any future e5peditions you plan to underta e, then this )oo has something of ,alue to offer you+ .hen you are on the hunt for Bass, nowing the )asics is li e the life)lood of your strategy, )ringing your chances ali,e with e,ery cast" #L!O, disco,er and de,elop YOUR O.$ sportsman/li e, angling style and character, while gradually )uilding your appreciation and understanding of the great outdoors, as part of your fishing e5perience+
BASS FISHING 101
.e present a practical approach to the intricacies and comple5ities in,ol,ed in this popular sport+ .e hope that this is captured well )y the short title0 Bass Fishing 101: How to Catch the Next Big One+ Our focus, approach, aims and goals are simple 6 the )asis and premise e,en simpler0 #ea%n the "asics& get the' %ight& consistent#(& with s)i## an! 'aste%(& an! the( wi## e*ent+a##( #ea! (o+ to catching a## the Bass (o+ can ,ossi"#( want o% han!#e.e prefer to get right to the topic and elements of our discussion 6 how to find and catch Bass" Basic yet detailed, the te5t is written in such a manner, that it can )e put to use and wor for you right away, without spending hours reading and wading through pages of information, you do not need+ Most pu)lished wor s and accomplished authors 3many anglers themsel,es4, depict Bass fishing as the ultimate angling e5perience and 7&he Bass 3predator/hunter itself4, as tough/ minded, unpredicta)le, with a strong sur,i,al instinct, great awareness, sensing8sensors, that ma e them the een and effecti,e hunters they are+ &hese fish )enefit from natures gifts of powerful sight, hearing, ,ast speed, maneu,era)ility and e,en 9umping action mo,es, that will ha,e you catch 3pardon the pun4, your )reath* with awe,
BASS FISHING 101
e5citement and e5pectation that is" #ll of this ma es it possi)le for the Bass to li,e up to its name and reputation, as one of the :e5tremes; of the gaming fish populations and e,ery anglers dream catch" Part of the Percichthyidae family 3also su)/classified into the genus Morone 6 considered a separate unit or )ranch 3white, yellow, striped4, they are widely distri)uted in temperate and tropical waters, su)/species to )e found in fresh and saltwater+ &here are also the #ustralian )ass 3 c!"aria no#e$ac"%eate4, (uropean sea )ass 3&icentrarch"s %a'rax4+ &heir food of choice8feed and natural diet includes small fish, crustaceans, worms and insects 6 some anglers ha,e also had great success with li,e/)ait, li e eels and e,en frogs+ &hen there are the )lac )ass, collecti,ely referred to and including our prized target 6 called )y some to )e the most sporting species in $orth #merica 6 the Centrarchidae family+ 3Largemouth and smallmouth )ass, redeye, spotted, striped, )lac )ass, !uwannee, <uadalupee4+ #rtificial )aits ha,e pro,en useful to most anglers+ Li,e )aits are )est, )ut these fish can )e tempted, teased and lured to stri e with artificial ones such as spinners, spoons, cran /)aits, surface plugs and plastic worms 6 more on this a little later+ =nowing which to choose 3and .'Y4, use, switch to in certain conditions,
BASS FISHING 101
a%ge'o+th Bass Ext%e'e . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e ?uaranteed &o 2mpro,e Your Results By !uper/#ccelerating Your Largemouth Bass >ishing &echni1ues to the point of !aturation+++ F#( Fishing Fo% T%o+t / A 0+iet Re*o#+tion . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e #re you interested in disco,ering PRO@($, Astep/)y/ stepA >ly >ishing methods significantly impro,ing your !tri e Rate / Using Bomprehensi,e BR(#=&'ROU?' =nowledge $e,er Before !een OR Released to the Pu)licC F#( Fishing Fo% Beginne%s . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e &he >ly/fishing techni1ue / from finding fish hideouts to understanding the lifecycles of the different insects they eat, along with the other comple5ities ha,e fascinated fly fishers for thousands of years+
and how to optimize this art of allure, is a ey )asic element for e,ery aspiring or great angler ali e+ &hese fishes are all acti,e predators, warming to natural )aits an! artificial lures+ Most anglers would suggest spinning or trolling for freshwater fishing for Bass 3larger species4 and spinning or fly/fishing for the smaller species+ !altwater enthusiasts might also consider surfcasting, trolling or up/ tide fishing+ >ishing for and catching Bass, in ,arious waters across the glo)e, has a proud history and tradition+ Most of us are too glad to get da))ling in and form part of it, whether from )oat, shore, roc s or roc s, ri,ers, streams, la es or oceans+ .e li e to tell our mighty
tales and contemplate how to change and modify, adapt and or create new techni1ues, approaches to hoo smallmouth, large/
BASS FISHING 101
mouth, spec led, spotted, striped and )lac )ass+ &o each his own+ You pic your fa,orite+ =nowing how to tell a smallmouth from a large/mouth )ass, striped from spotted and so on, is a ,ery )asic s ill most anglers master 1uic ly+ Loo ing specifically at size and physical features are good places to start+ &rain your eye to 7spot the differences, so to spea + &hey differ in size, mar ings and dorsal fins for e5ample+ &heir upper 9aws are different in length and their dorsal fins are not the same+ &he large/mouth has a spiny dorsal fin, highest in the middle portion, with almost a distinct 7)rea , right )efore the second set of dorsal fins start+ >or our friends the small mouth )ass, these fins are flatter, first and second are connected, with distinct scales at the )ase of the second set of dorsal fins+ #part from nowing and telling your fish species apart, )y sights and or physical characteristics, there are some general ad,ice we can propose right upfront+ (5periencing, treading lightly and honoring nature, the great outdoors, a)iding )y the anglers code 3catch and release, licensing4, en,ironmental protection for generations of anglers 3and women4 to come, and the li e are all ,astly important in your angling endea,ors+ !econd, maintaining an o,erall alertness, what some call :reading the waters; 3understanding the )ody of water, ha)itat to the fish, contour, depth, temperature, stratified le,els etc+4, )eing
BASS FISHING 101
generally, as well as specifically 7o)ser,ant, arming yourself with nowledge, s ill and understanding of the fish, the species, the en,ironment, and all other rele,ant factors to your fishing acti,ity and underta ings 6 paramount for successful process and outcome+ &hird, 3and almost most importantly4, remain adapta)le, for change is a B2? part of this en9oya)le outdoor acti,ity+ 2t is definitely not for the faint of heart or the impatient among us"
ntrod!"tion - #nowing And $oing Where The Bass Are

Bass defined0 # fighter, e,er/elusi,e, choice game/fish, predator )y nature and reputation, the one sought/after, prized hoo , catch, reel/in and land, of many an aspiring angler+ 'ow to catch Bass #$% then catch more, larger )ass, more often, in more places, with more consistency, ha,ing a pro/acti,e plan and approach, stac ing the odds in your fa,or to succeed, catching more fish an! en9oying the process, is what this )asic guide is all a)out+ &he hunter )ecomes the hunted 6 learn how a small change in your paradigm, thin ing and approach can lead to )ass/angling success" !tart thin ing li e the watery hunter, )ecome and understand the )ass as a hunter+ O)ser,e, learn, follow, study
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and use its natural ha)it, preferences, patterns, ha)its, prey and choice of food, in your angling/strategy, and you will ha,e some interesting fish/tales to tell+ 3$one of them tall tales of course, we hope"4* and yes, we may e,en learn something from the ones that get8got away" !o, without further ado, let us get our rods and reels going* 2f you were told that, there is one particular species of fish that most would descri)e as tough/minded, smart, outwitting and elusi,ely hard to catch, then it the Bass 6 in all its shapes, sizes, iterations and su)/classes+ 2t rings true, no matter what the conte5t, )ody of water, special and or an( situation or condition, regardless of secrets, tips, pro,en science, techni1ue and intent in the world" Bass fishing is challenging and rewarding at the same time+ &o ensure hours of countless pleasure, follow the pointers 3and add some of your own here too"4 pro,ided here, for Bass fishing DED and )e ready to hoo the ne5t )ig one* repeatedly, and actually )e a)le to ($-OY it too" &here are ,arious aspects, wor ing in com)ination in the art and science, sport and pursuit that is Bass >ishing" !trategy an! synergy, contri)ute to e,entual, and 3we will argue4, consistent and repeata)le success+ (1uipment, site, lure and s ill, dawn and or dus , shallow or deep waters, fresh8salt water, from )oat or
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shore 6 it does not matter" &here are secrets and techni1ues for each of them+ $o,ices, )eginners, seasonal and seasoned anglers ali e, are all welcome to flip through these pages to disco,er some magical, sought/after truths a)out )ass fishing" 2n the end, it is as much a)out the process, en9oyment, understanding and appreciation, as it is a)out the fish" Become an o)ser,ant, student of nature itself, the Bass ha)its and patterns, whether using trolling, artificial and or li,e )ait, fly/fishing, on ice, fresh and salt, deep and shallow waters, do so, using all to your ad,antage, as you underta e your own 9ourney of the Bass" Bass is )y far the most widely distri)uted fish in $orth #merica 6 sometimes due to the con,enience of our mo)ility and fast/paced society, geared for tra,el and transportation, Bass is within easy reach 3for most within D days tra,el at most4, Large/mouths, !mall/mouths, striped, spotted, )lac )ass etc+ all await+ (,er heard of a smart fish that ma es calculated, in/the/moment decisionsC One whose sur,i,al instinct is so strong, that it snatches and at other times totally ignores and hangs around seemingly uninterested, only to stri e8)ite when least e5pected"
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.ell, that would )e typical of our finned, scaly 3pardon the pun4, fish/friend, the 7Bass+ >or the purposes of this )oo , this species is and ta es centre/stage 6this is deli)erate and intentional+ Bass fishing is a)out e5actly that the fish, &he Bass+ &enacious, unpredicta)le and a challenge to most of us+ @arious scientists ha,e pro,en that Bass almost 7calculate the amount of energy it will ta e them to go after the prey ,s+ the return+ 2f this )e true and ,erified, what are the implications for us anglers of promiseC OU&!M#R&2$? &'(M of course" 2t is all in the )asics, the strategies, )attle plan, allure, tease and techni1ues we choose to use in this process+ &his will dictate and determine our success+
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The Basi"s %f Bass Fishing & An %'er'iew

Most, if not all of the so/called 7insider secrets, tips and stories to tell of )ig hauls of Bass, all re,ol,e, around a ,ery simple )asic rule 6 understanding the fish, 3their life/cycles, feeding preferences, ha)its and patterns, ha)it and menu of choice, their nature, their relationship with the )roader eco/system and position on the food/chain, timing it right+ #lso heeding your surroundings, your e1uipment 3tools4, ha,ing the now how and )asics under your )elt and finally optimizing 3e,ery"4 opportunity* 2n effect, you are going a)out, creating the most fa,ora)le angling process and outcome you can muster" Bass fishing is a passion, a science and an art form upon itself+ 2t appeals to young and old, attracts anglers from all wal s of life and )oth sides of the professional and amateur spectrum+ One ey to )ass fishing is, what we can easily refer to as, 7predicta)le )eha,ior+ 'a)its, patterns, life cycles, the natural rhythm that is life and nature 6 also applies to fish+ &his means that Bass e5ist within this natural reality+ 2f you can capitalize on understanding it )etter, you will increase your chances of successful hoo s8)ites+
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!ee ing protecti,e co,er, foraging amongst roc s, stumps, weeds, at times on the prowl hunting for prey, other times 9ust 7lunching around casually, all seem to )e part of &he Bass feeding rituals and repertoire+ &a ing ad,antage and considering this when starting out and e,ery time casting, will )enefit you greatly+ #nother is :competiti,e ad,antage;, &he Bass has an :airtight sac; 3)reathing )ladder4, that is inflata)le, which ena)les it to swim and thri,e at different le,els+ # powerful tail helps with speed, agility and maneu,era)ility+ 2t can reach great depths+ Other factors li e water clarity, time of day, su)dued sunlight, water displacement and ,i)ration sensing, noise sensiti,ity, all add to this fish cunning and ensuring that you scrutinize these clues, will increase your odds of hoo ing your ne5t )ig one+ Unloc ing for e5ample how &he Bass senses and prefers color and shade in the moment, can always also help anglers increase their effecti,eness+ &he choice and type of lure, colors and mo,ement, )ait etc+ can all contri)ute meaningfully to your attempts+ .here the fish are* e,eryone will ha,e an answer, or at least their opinion8e5perience on what8where8when, e,en science+ $e,ertheless, sometimes it is as simple as understanding the ha)itat and those that li,e and thri,e in it, to )etter interact with and en9oy fishing in it 6 a type of e5ploring the depths, so to
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spea + >or e5ample0 the temperature of the water and a,aila)le o5ygen, dictate mo,ing patterns and dis)ursement of fish species+ >eeding ha)its and preferences are distinct, falling more on the :loo ing ali,e; or li,e )ait+ !ome 1uote smallmouth )ass, as showing preference for crawfish and using that as a 7sign of where these critters will )e found, on the hunt for their fa,orite snac " Loo ing at stomach content of fish you ha,e caught and ept 3not part of the catch and release protocol8re1uirements4, hold hidden clues a)out food of preference 6whitefish, crawfish and others+ 'a,ing self/confidence, aptitude AN1 the right attitude when fishing for Bass is crucial+ 2n this )attle to outwit your opponent, you will need e,ery tool and tric at your disposal to ma e a successful catch+ $e,er get discouraged, feel )eaten or worse 1uit for the yield has )een slim to none at all 6 those days happen to e,ery angler+ $ature )eats to its own drum, you ha,e to disco,er and en9oy the rhythm you are so intricately part of+ Practice ma es perfect 6 there is no sil,er )ullet, 1uic /fish method for FG+GG, that can guarantee you )ites and more )ass all the time, anytime+ 2t %O(! ta e hard wor and commitment, persistence and rigor from the angler+ &here is more than routine at sta e and play here+ !ome days will )e predicta)ly )etter than others+ $o matter what the conditions, process and outcome, on the day, put it all down to e5perience and lessons learned+ Log
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and learn, share and grow, in your own understanding, confidence and tool it, as an a,id )ass angler+ #nother ey tric , is actually $O &R2B= #& #LL 6 we call it an :ac1uired s ill;+ 2t ta es more of that hard wor we mentioned )efore" (5act, fi5ed casting, re1uires target/precision practice, impro,ing your a)ility to place the lure e5actly where you would want it to )e 6 let us call it 7hitting the mar + &his is another crucial tactic and techni1ue you can practice in the par or your li,ing room 6 try using plugs and get )etter e,ery time at consistently hitting your 7target 3and nothing else we hope"4+ Becoming and )eing a proacti,e participant in the conte5t and en,ironment 3and process4, you are in, nowing when to mo,e on, change something and or 1uit for the time/)eing 3postponing the hunt or resting when re1uired, planning your strategy for the ne5t trip out4, is what it is all a)out as well" 'a)itual creatures of comfort, &he Bass 3as a species4, are not so much different than modern man+ Bearing this in mind will help you too as an angler+ .e li e what we li e, when and how we li e it and normally want it on time, when it is there and ready, )e safe, en9oy life and we cra,e comfort 6 food, shelter and well/ )eing" %oes this sound a lot different from our own needs and re1uirementsC $ot really" .ell, that is one way of le,eling the playing field+ Understanding the )asic necessities and niceties for
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these watery :creatures;, holds clues and ad,antage, for any and e,ery angler+ !timulus, pattern, routine, ha)it 6 predictors and hints 6 the ace up your slee,e when nothing else wor s" Learn and de,elop s ills, to 7read 31uic ly at a glance, o)ser,e and ma e a 9udgment4, now instincti,ely what will come happen, ne5t and why 6 figure out the pattern, stic with it and e5ploit it to your ad,antage and angling success+ Meet the Bass where they are, in what they do, cater to their needs and you will )e surprised at what meets you in the waters )elow" >amiliarity with the Bass fa,orite places to hang around is critical to success0 Bottoms, stumps, trees , logs, weeds and plants, contours, structures, tra,el/routes, cree s, shallows8deeper passages, co,es, channels, )luffs, )an s and shorelines 6 all can )e repetiti,e clues on ha)itual, predicta)le )eha,ior of the )ass+ Most of the 7e5perts came a)out their nowledge through reading, studying ha)its of their catch, in ,ery similar fashion than what you are underta ing+ (,ery time you get to now your fishy friends a little )etter, until you now instincti,ely where they will )e and where their fa,orite spots are+ =nowing and going where the fish are )ecomes demystified, )ut e,en more e5citing, for it is now more than a hunch or random chance 6 it is a planned encounter where the watery predator, hunter (ar exce%%ence, )ecomes the hunted"
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Too(s %f The Trade: Ta"k(e) Boats) A""essories) *!res And Baits (A(( A+o!t ,(asti"s) S-inners) .rank And %thers- To-Water And S-e"ia(ty *!res)
'a,ing the right e1uipment, nowing how to )est use it, when and how, 3also how not to use it and what it is not suita)le for4, can all help you in your )ass fishing ad,enture+ &he )asics regarding rods, reels, line, hoo s, weights, )o))ers, sin ers, lures, sensors and other e1uipment 3hats, ,ests, nets, scents, scissors etc+4, gi,es you an appreciation for ha,ing the right tools for the tas 3s4 at hand+ #s a highly participatory and engaging sport, Bass fishing is simply almost unparalleled in the ,ast amount of styles and tools to use+ >rom 1uiet streams, tran1uil la es to open sea and rushing ri,ers 6 there is something for e,eryone+ 2f you are loo ing for 1uic tips on the right e1uipment, most suited to your purpose and the techni1ues to master to catch )ass in any conditions, might this ne5t section enlighten and inspire you, as you del,e right into the 7utilities of the fishing trade+ !ome tools of the )ass fishing trade, we will )e focusing on are0 Rods, Reels, Lines and 'oo s
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&ac le0 Lures and Bait 6 li,e 6 artificial and, or, BU& Y(&* Limited space does not permit large comparati,e e5planations or ram)lings on the merit of some tools a)o,e certain others+ &hese de)ates are well nown and well pu)lished in e5isting literature+ .e ta e a more practical approach and loo at what you will actually need to hoo your ne5t )ig one, )esides random chance and luc " .e li e to point out that pic ing the right e1uipment means a lot of different thing to different people+ (ach angler has his8her own interpretation of what that means, ,arying s ill le,el, physical characteristics and strengths8wea nesses, so we will not profess nowing what is right for you+ .hat we do offer are mere suggestions on which tools will stac the odds in your fa,or and help you en9oy preparing, rigging, )aiting8hoo ing, retrie,ing and landing YOUR ne5t B2? O$(" (nsuring that is does not 9oin the dro,es of 7the ones that got away" (,en as you e5plore your surroundings and the wonder of fish species and their life cycles, patterns and )eha,ior, e5perimenting, hands/on with your e1uipment and what is a,aila)le to anglers today, is part of the e5citing world of Bass fishing+ >rom fish/finders, temperature gauges, sensors and more ad,anced technologies, to the art of preparing your lines and hoo s, choosing the lures8)ait most suited to your circumstance and purpose and more, adds to the e5citement and en9oyment of the acti,ity+ Preparing yourself with nowledge on these, will
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)oost your confidence and practicing often, will pay off in the long run as your e5pertise, e5posure and angling mastery grows+ .hen it comes to e1uipment, the opinions are many and far )etween+ Your condition, circumstance, purpose and goal will all figure into the final choice 3oh, yes and do not forget the e,er/ present )udget and afforda)ility4" !pinning or )ait casting with artificial lures, fly/fishing, trolling with li,e/)aits, are all options a,aila)le to you, with specialist tools on hand to assist you ma e the most of it+ &ypically a H+H to I feet rod 3spinning or )ait casting4, with a matching reel with si5 to ten pound line, fast taper, single action reel would ser,e you well+ .eed/less hoo s are a lifesa,er in ,ery dense co,er or weeds+ #ngling techni1ues and tac le eep refining, de,eloping and almost ta es on a life of its own for e,ery angler+ &here is not really a one/size/fits/all approach+ &his personalized relationship with your e1uipment, might mean a )asic rod to start with and then adding a couple for your different e5cursions and e5peditions 6 your Bass 9ourney has 9ust started+ Modern tac le and methods, traditional or inno,ati,e, technology/dri,en and ena)led 6 whate,er your fancy or preference 6 there is something for e,ery taste and )udget+ 2t is an ancient sport, pursued )y many, with echoes of early hunters and anglers li,ing off the land+ ?etting in touch with that
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timeline through hands/on acti,ity, li e )ass fishing is ,ery rewarding+ Most )eginners might )e o,erwhelmed )y the selection of e1uipment a,aila)le on the mar et today+ =nowing what to pic 8)uy, how and when to 3)est4apply, use it correctly, to ma5imize your chances of catching your ne5t )ig one is ey+ ?ood 1uality tac le is important 6 it needs to )e ade1uate for whate,er nature throws your way+ You will need to )uild your arsenal of nowledge and e1uipment o,er time, to respond )est to some of the challenges at hand+ ?ood appropriate )aits and lures and how to use them effecti,ely, in com)ination, in 1uic succession to ensure )ites, are other ey components, as is importance of preparing, presenting well, accurate casting, hoo ing 3sharpening the hoo s and turning them up slightly for e5ample to ensure that the fish stay on your hoo as you reel them in4, as well as retrie,ing and landing of the fish+ #n e5cellent source for )eginners on all things tac le/related, e1uipment, fish species, tools and techni1ues, is to )e found in The &or%ing )inders%ey *ncyc%o(edia o+ Fishing: The co$(%ete g"ide to the +ish, tac,%e and techni!"es o+ +resh and sa%twater ang%ing- Our intent and purpose here is not to restate the listed facts found here+ #,id and serious anglers are readers and thirst nowledge that will increase their odds of success+ &his source we recommend for young and old" 3&here are also some other references listed at the end of this te5t, if you choose to pursue
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more facts and or cra,e deeper insights into the art and science of Bass fishing4+ #ll we will say, is that ha,ing e5pensi,e or the right e1uipment, is not a guarantee that you will land the ne5t )ig one" 2n fishing, there are no real guarantees+ &his is a 7contract and acti,ity )etween you and nature+ (5ploring and getting you to the point where you now the feel, function and em)edded strengths and wea nesses of your e1uipment, is the real way to wisdom+ >or most trail and error, practice and persistence are the roads to follow to )ecoming well/,ersed and e5perienced anglers+ Realizing the e1uipments full potential, will ta e time and practice+ Bear in mind, that sophistication in e1uipment will de,elop in parallel to your own mastery and s ill/refinement+ Your intended style of fishing 3from )oat or shore, shallow or deep 3or )oth4 will dictate the most appropriate choice for tac le 3reel and rod, line 6 thic ness and weight4, line, hoo s, )aits and lures, weights, sin ers, leaders and more+ .hether you are a salt/water fanatic that en9oys shore, )each, )oat or )ig/game fishing or a freshwater guru, preferring lure, )ait, pole and or fly fishing, there are rod, reels, line, hoo s, leaders, lin s, )ait, and landing tac le 9ust right for you+
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Basic angling techni1ues are relati,ely easy to master, yet con1uering and refining all the su)tleties and intricate mo,es and maneu,ers, e5ploring the secrets 3disco,ered or yet to )e unearthed4, of in this case )ass fishing 3which has so many iterations and settings4, will ta e a lifetime of pleasure and defeat" Practice and en9oy )ass fishing, according to your own niche and style, preference and location of choice 6 in a word / YOUR 7specialty+ 2t is a ,ery personalized and indi,idualized pursuit and passion+ #lways remem)er, that there is a wide array of ,ariety and en9oyment on offer, )y different inds of fishing, locations, )aits and lures etc+, to eep angling interesting and a growing sport 6 it is contagious and per,asi,e 6 once let in, it is hard to let go" You are hoo ed and )eing reeled in )y this sport and ho))y )efore you now it+ >or most anglers, techni1ue 3and choice of e1uipment4 is dictated )y the species sought, esta)lished practice, conditions and more+ Mostly artificial lures are suggested and accepted for freshwater predatory fishing+ !ome prefer li,e )ait, others ha,e success with hard )aits li e artificial rats and plastic worms are another fa,orite+
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.hether you are fishing from the )an s, )oat or float tu)e, most would suggest you use a si5 to si5 and a half foot 3D+J /Km4 medium, hea,y/push/)utton, spinning or )ait/casting rod and reel com)ination, with strong line 3DE/ pound4+ 2f you are fishing in weeds, hea,y co,er, thic , slop, grassy wetlands, swamps, etc+ a hea,ier line 3)raided4, will ser,e you )etter8 )est+ 'oo sizes typically recommended around a L M li,e/)ait hoo , sharpened and turned up slightly 3say around DEN4, this is done to ensure that the fish stayed :hoo ed; and gi,es you a 7fighting chance to reel it in and land it successfully+ # weed/less, L H hoo can also ser,e you well in these conditions+ Large/mouth )ass can )e caught at any depth, using li,e )aits, throughout most the year 3e,en ice fishing4" !harp hoo s are ey+
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.eights and sin ers are another element you must consider, especially in dar , cloudy waters and or when fishing deep water specifically+ &here are also specialty sin ers, with rattles these days to entice the fish e,en more+ &hey are ,ery sensiti,e to sounds, noise and ,i)rations in the water 6 so anything you can do to create that allure, tease and temptation is great to )ear in mind+ %o e,erything you can to trigger their feeding response and ensure a stri e8)ite" #lso, remem)er, fish are a lot li e us 6 on hot, humid days, they loo for shelter, food and comfort+ &hese are their handout and feeding ground 3no different than us, wanting to sit under an um)rella, or in front on the &@, in an air/conditioned en,ironment, trying to stay cool and en9oy our snac /foods"4+ =nowing and considering these ha)its, will help you catch more fish+ Loo for the lily pads, thin co,er, gi,ing them shade from the sun+ >ind the right depth, structure and hide/away3they normally loo for co,er, li e any other predator4 and their lighting/fast speed ena)led them to co,er water8ground 1uic ly and really stri e8attac 8hit their :prey;+ .eedy, shallow )ays, hard/)ottom flats, roc s, trees and or other structures, cree s, channels, deeper waters, drops, )luffs and more can all )e part of their mo,ing patterns and ha)itat, where they loo for food+ &hey also li e )eing close to access point to deeper water+ More later on their preferred spots and how to optimize these patterns+
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(5amples of luring techni1ues and how the right e1uipment can help you0 !urface, &op/water and or Buzz )aits0 #cting almost li e a spinner )ait, )ut with a flat )lade that ena)les it to surface with speed, this is a popular choice for many a )ass enthusiast++ 2t attracts the attention of the )ass, )y creating a distur)ance along the surface li e a minnow, triggering their )asic feeding instincts and hunter impulse to stri e+ Rewarding you with a handsome catch" Barolina Rig0 this can easily )e descri)ed as simply a ,ariation of the standard, so/called 7&e5as Rig 3see )elow4, great for use with plastic worms or other soft )ait+ Most e5pert )ass anglers suggest using a hea,ier weight li e D8K /Doz or more+ !lide the weight onto the line, follow with three plastic )eads, a )arrel swi,el, and a leader line 3somewhat smaller than the main line4+.hat this allows the )ass angler to do is to get the )ait to 7drop down to the floor with speed and is especially recommended for fishing deep waters+ &he mo,ement of the leader allows the )ait to swim and rise a)o,e the )ottom, and fall slowly down+ >or most )eginners this is easy to do and practice and is ,ery ,ersatile to get your routine rigging and tac le s ills to impro,e+ Bran )ait0 mostly refers to lures, which is usually made from a ,ariety of materials, including hard plastic or wood+ .ith an
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added feature of a di,ing lip on the front 3simulating effecti,ely the mo,ements of natural prey, wo))ling, di,ing and swimming actions4, entices the )ass to stri e+ &he rule of thum), normally is that the larger the lip, the deeper it can di,e+ (nhancements li e rattles are also good for certain conditions+ -er )aits0 # seasoned fa,orite amongst )ass anglers, for top/ water, as well as suspended )ass fishing+ longer minnow/shaped plugs, a,aila)le in lots of different sizes and colors+ #s a surface, top/water )ait with a slight twitch/and/stop type of retrie,e, or e,en as a more slow/and/steady retrie,es underwater+ #nother option is to use suspending 9er )aits that typically di,e deeper, 9er ing it, almost teasing and tempting the )ass to come up and )ite right at it+ -igs0 !ome ha,e descri)ed these trusted tac le as 7lead head and hoo with dressing+ &heir 7added features could ta e the shape of ru))er or plastic s irts, soft plastic )aits for )odies, instead of s irts+ Most )ass e5perts com)ine them with a frog, or a plastic )ait as a :follower3plastic worm, crawfish4+ Lipless Bran )ait0 mostly referring to sin ing/type lures, made from plastic, sometimes with many rattles inside for noise, , ,i)rations and causing distur)ances underwater+ Poppers0 &op water lures that carry long/range punch+ Retrie,e with these inds of lures are fast, 9er y or mo,e in one spot for a
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duration of time+ Ban )e 1uite effecti,e if you trying to figure out 7where the fish are+ !oft -er )ait0 these can )e used to great effect in the same manner as a regular 9er )ait, )ut can )e dropped to the )ottom 1uite successfully as well to tease out our deep/water predator, swimming around for food and feast+ !pinner )aits0 another simulator of mo,ement and prey on the go+ 2t is ,ery similar to a 9ig, )ut with a )lade that runs a)o,e the hoo , and spins to imitate a )ass fa,orite as well0 fish+ &e5as Rig0 this is considered and named specifically for standard rigging with a plastic worm+ Use a sliding weight, usually )ullet shaped, and a hoo sufficient for the size worm you ha,e chosen+ !harpen the hoo and stic the point of the hoo directly into the worm head, )ring it out the side a)out D8J / O8DPA )elow the entry, thread it again+ Rotate the hoo around so the point is facing the wormQs )ody+ Lay it o,er the side to see where it should enter in order to hang straight+ Position the wor straight onto the hoo if it is hanging+ $O&(0 if the worm is twisted, your line and action will pay the price and it will )e less effecti,e+ .al ing/ the/dog0 this is an angling techni1ue that usually re1uires some time to master, )ut )eginners should not shy away from trying it, for it is 1uite effecti,e with )ass+ Basting o,er a relati,ely long distance, allow the )ait to sit for a )rief period of
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time, ta e up the slac , and with your rod tip pointed at the water, gi,e it a 9er to the side, then immediately mo,e it )ac ward and reel in any slac , then 9er again, and repeat all the way )ac + More or less a darting from side/to/side+ You are in effect simulating the preys elusi,e mo,ements, enticing the hunter to follow, stal and hit" &his might )e your ace up your slee,e for hoo ing YOUR $(R& B2? O$(+ !lip/)o))ers, rigged with a S ounce plastic 9ig, li,e )ait li e minnow, night/crawler or leech at its tip and of course, all on a sharpened hoo -iggling, lightly sha ing, presenting this close to any emerging weeds or )rush, underwater logs, trees, stumps or co,er, may pro,e successful+ Remem)er that fish are constantly on the mo,e while feeding+ &he timing of day, amount of sunlight, temperature of the water and more all feature into the angling e1uation+ Bo))er/rigs or 9igs are popular and 1uite successful too+ !lip/ sin ers, Barolina 3drop/shot rig4 wor s well too+ >ree/line fishing in shallow waters may yield many a )ass angler 1uite the haul+ Basting a plain hoo with li,e )ait and feed the line to the )ait, allowing it to 7swim naturally will attract some certain attention+ Other e5perts would recommend if you are in the so/called watery salad, weeds or hea,y slop, co,er and 9ungles underwater, to go hea,ier is the ey+ KE l) line the
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minimum and hea,y/action, sturdy )ait/casting rod and reel com)os with long, straight handles to pro,ide you with le,erage to reel your B2? O$(! in" >loating 9ig/heads, with slip/sin er rig, with K/O foot leader ha,e pro,en to )e useful too, especially when ept close to the )ottom, watching not to get snagged in the process+ .eed/less hoo s can help you retrie,e li,e/)ait and or that hoo ed fish, through ,ery thin under)rush+ #gain, understanding what )ass actually eat, where and when, will help you with choosing and presenting the most effecti,e, appropriate and tempting )ait 3whether li,e or artificial4+ %rawing on the natural diet of the fish, can assist you in impro,ing your )aits and lures appearance, strategy, tactics and e,entual success+ Bass, as a predator will )e loo ing for certain shapes, colors and familiar mo,ement+ Plastic worms and crawfish are popular choices+ Part of the reason )ass is such a popular species to )e fishing for, is they are notorious for hitting hard, )iting solid and strong pulling or fighting 6 a strong game fish to )e sure+ &hey are nown to put up a good fight+ !pinners or spoons are artificial )aits that are specifically designed for the purpose of tantalizing the fish+ 2t is meant to pro,o e, ma e a stri e irresisti)le, calling on the fish natural instinct to feed and or defend+ 2t optimizes your chances of securing stri es+ Rotation, color, s irts, fluttering action 3Lil
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hustler spoiler is a fa,orite of many )ass anglers4 all wor together to simulate mo,ement and prey on the mo,e+ !poons act8mo,e in a fishli e manner in the water, trolled )ehind )oats they are typically ,ery effecti,e and can also )e cast and retrie,ed+ Plugs are made of ,arious materials, designed specifically to float, di,e )elow the surface or sin when reeling them )ac or in+ &hey simulate surface distur)ance and entice fish with propellers or plastic s irts that mo,e and flutter in the water+ #rtificial lures can )e utilized alone or in com)ination with li,e or natural )aits+ &he size and type of lure will depend on the species, location and style of fishing you prefer, choose to pursue+ 3for e5ample trolling, spinning, fly/fishing4+ >or )ass fishing particularly, a couple of suggestions are to )ear in mind that enticing the predators from )elow, ta es s ill, practice and patience+ >or matted weed/)eds and sloppy pitches, you might ha,e to tic le the surface a )it+ .hen fishing in shallow waters, lures cast out fast and retrie,ed slowly sha ing it along, might trigger a response+ 2t is all in the tease and promise to the fish that loo for signs of mo,ement in the water+ 'a,ing a handy pair of Polaroid sunglasses are a MU!&" =eep on mo,ing the )ait around and play with the presentation 6 it is an art, ac1uired s ill that gets )etter o,er time+ .hen casting the )ait out, try not to spoo the fish, remem)ering that they are sensiti,e to
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sound8noise, mo,ement and ,i)rations+ Plastic worms wor well 3around DE;4+ Being adapta)le, switching )aits, different color etc+, using a strong &e5as rig for e5ample, hoo ing up a worm near the )ottom of the hoo , sliding it onto the shan , popping it through, with a T ounce weight might )e all you need" 'a,ing a second rod set up and ready to go or fishing with a )uddy that can help you to respond 1uic ly 3as the fish are always on the mo,e4 and when they are ready to hit, you are prepared for them" Others suggest using )raided line that is stronger than mono 3for when fishing in weedy areas4, with no stretch that can minimize entanglement and optimize your chances of retrie,al through thin weeds and co,er+ !tiff rods that can withstand the :fight; )ass can typically put up are another )ase/re1uirement for )ass fishing enthusiasts+ Protecting your rods with rod wraps, to a,oid dings and scrapes can also ma5imize not only its efficiency, )ut eep your angling in,estment in good condition" !ha ing and popping along )ait8lures, create a situation that lets the fish thin the :prey; is getting away+ 'owe,er, the right e1uipment, )ait, hoo s and location is not enough" !ome )asic angling techni1ues are re1uired, setting up your rod and reel, nowing the )asics a)out tying nots for 9oining line to tac le, forming loops and more+ &ying a secure not is the main thing here, as e,ery one could pose a
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7wea ness, which you do not need, when you ha,e the B2? O$( hoo ed" !ome suggest )efore tightening a not, to wet it with some water and trim all edges and loose ends, to a,oid snag8drag+ ?ulp/sin ing minnows cast out fast and far, allowing to let it fall and dangle, 1ui,er down, with lots of slac , might pro,e 9ust what the fish ordered" &u)e/9igs, gulp/tu)es that are scented, are other options+ &he soft, natural/chewy su)stance, tric s the fish, into not wanting to let go and ha,e another chew, thus increasing your odds of landing it safely+ &op/water )aits with rattles are another all/time fa,orite, with slac in the line, wal ing/the/dog 3flipping4 ma es for an enticing presentation for the fish+ 'a,ing a spinner/)ait with some red in it, simulates )lood or wounded prey to our underwater predator, triggering yet again their natural instincts and feeding response, increasing your odds of getting a )ite, hit or stri e+ .hether you find yourself in a 9et/)oat or flat/)ottom )ass )oat, shore, roc s, )each, cliff, stream, ri,er, stream, la e, reser,oir, or other )ody of water, strong rods, hot hands, good tac le, appropriate preparation, the right )ait and presentation, accurate
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casting, where you now the fish might )e8mo,e8feed naturally, fishing for structure and pattern, eeping an eye on surroundings and conditions, can all ma e those fleeting moments of anticipation and elation at first stri e momentous" &he fights, flights, flips, turns and 9umps, attac s and hard hits, struggles, retrie,al and landing of )ass, is what eeps us coming )ac " Let us now turn to ta e a loo at what other considerations, plan of attac , angling techni1ues, secrets, mista es and specialty circumstances, can teach us a)out the en9oya)le art and acti,ity, that is "ass $ishing"
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Water) Weather) Ti/ing And %ther 0n'iron/enta( As-e"t) Fa"ets And .onsiderations For Bass Fishing
#s mentioned throughout this te5t so far, there are numerous factors that we often do not consider, and or dismiss, when we first start out, angling for )ass+ &hese would include, consideration of0 .ater stratification and depths 3)ass are found at ,arying le,els and nowing whe%e 3at which le,el4, to fish for them is paramount4U shallow or deep, sometimes )oth+ #s far as water temperatures goes, during a yearly8seasonal cycle, waters mo,e, turn and gets re/o5ygenized+ #s temperatures fall, from deep )elow and throughout ice forms, floats to the surface, melts and mo,es down again+ !cience has pro,ided us with enough e,idence that &'R(( distinct layers from in a )ody of water 6 say a la e for e5ample+ %eeper8colder, Middle/ground8milder 6 transitional layer and the top8surface8warmer waters+ 'eeding these le,els and ,arying temperatures, and loo ing o5ygen/rich spots are all factors to consider e,en )efore heading out+ &hin the process through+ &hin li e the fish would 6 as yourself, where would you go in all li elihood, if you were faced with the same situation 6 the answer will mostly lead you to where the fish most li ely #R("
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# temperature gauge and depth meter can all prepare you )etter, as an angler, nowledgea)le and prepared, to assess the en,ironment, )etter understand it, learn from it, and use the information you gather and ha,e on hand, due to these readings and instruments, to =$O. or )est 9udge, where the fish will )e at" %epth is a great indicator of what the )ass are up to and where they will )e most li ely found+ &his will dictate your approach, tac le and how you e5ecute your angling s ills to land &'( $(R& B2? O$(" 2f you fish at the right le,el, understanding why the fish are there, on the mo,e, feeding etc+, you will increase your odds drastically of getting stri es and hoo ing your ne5t )ig catch+ 2t might e,en )e a trophy" &he depth is related to water temperature and the optimal comfort zone of the )ass 6 always as yourself, what they would prefer on a day li e today and then go fish there+ Measure with temperature, depth sensors, ?P! etc+ to esta)lish the 7pattern and depth of the day+ &emperature 6 optimal and changing Most )ass species prefer a temperate climate 6their meta)olism is influenced, if not go,erned pretty much )y the surrounding waters they find themsel,es in+ &hey can also tolerate 1uite a wide range of temperatures, therefore we can fish pretty much throughout the year+ 3PE/IH degrees >ahrenheit48 2t is also less widely nown that ice/fishermen hoo )ass at around OK/OG+K degree water temperatures, in deeper waters" .hen it does get colder, they get somewhat more sluggish, as their en,ironment
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cools down significantly and )earing this in mind will yield and impro,e your catch+ O5ygen is also ,ery important to fish+ &he hotter it gets, the closer they will stay to shore, and to plant/ life, which produces o5ygen and or where they might catch the occasional )reeze+ Reading these signals nature pro,ides right, will prepare any angler )etter to go where the fish are and hoo your ne5t B2? O$(+ #lso loo for spots that are not too stagnant and filled with decaying plants, as this might )e an o5ygen/depri,ed area with not a large concentration of fish 6 they need to 7)reathe to stay ali,e too" .ater conditions0 Blarity Blear and or mur y 6 you will find )ass in )oth" &heir )eha,ior and mode of attac will change as they plan how to )est e5pend their
energies in the hunt for food, sur,i,al etc+ Predators )y design,
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they prefer co,er and structure and deeper waters+ .hen spawning, 4 or on ,ery hot days, you will most li ely, find them more in the shallows+ Bass always ha,e a 7)ac /door access to deeper waters+ &hese facts should )e a)le to point you in the general ,icinity of where the fish are 1uite aptly+ &he male )ass is also ,ery protecti,e of the nest8spawn site and will defend it, stri e at any percei,ed threat or intruder+ >ishing is no more left up to random, contemplati,e, reflecti,e trail and error casting+ $ow, today, replaced with more a more dri,en, focused, thought/through, rationalized and analytical competiti,e approach, that tries to understand ha)its, patterns, en,ironment, conditions, time of year etc+ at times relying on the aid of technology and de,ices to assist and )etter your changes of spotting, finding, hoo ing, retrie,ing and landing the fish successfully 3mostly in deeper waters"4+ &herefore, it the waters are clear, head for deeper waters as a general rule of thum)+ $oise8%istur)ances8@i)rations %O $O& %2!&URB signs are hard to post in the water" #lways remem)er that there is some truth to not chasing the fish away and )eing somewhat careful and 1uiet around them+ &he )ass particularly uses its whole )ody as a sounding )oard+ #ny surface distur)ance, water mo,ement and or displacement will attract their attention 6 this can in fact )oth help and or hurt your angling hopes and dream+
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Rusty, s1uea y oars, noisy motors and e,en the sound of a fast, far cast may interfere and or get their attention+ Being aware of any, mo,ement, spotting fish so to spea in their en,ironment, things 3water, plants4 mo,ing around, can )e good indicators+ .earing a good pair of Polaroid sunglasses may also help you 7see )etter in the )right sunlight and glare, reflections off the surface of the water3s4+ Bolor, !unlight, &ime of day Most )ass anglers propose dawn and duc to )e the )est feeding time for the )ass 6 not the height of day or when the sun is at it )rightest and the water may)e a degree or two too warm for our fishy friends and when they head for the deep and or co,er+ 2t is a matter of appealing to their natural instincts+ &hey are een o)ser,ers and mo,ement and color ha,e )een researched in the )ass species+ Pic ing presentation of )ait, lure that is closest to li,e or ali,e )ait, resem)les their prey, in other words, will ma5imize your chances of catching more )ass+ &his does not mean that they will not stri e at night for e5ample or at other times during the day 6 you might 9ust ha,e to adapt and use some specialist techni1ues to lure them out of hiding a )it" &ime of year0 !easons and things are a changing" !urroundings, weather and angling rules change and eep changing+ &he stage and players do not remain the same and e,en on the same day, day to day, things will ,ary+ &his ,ariety
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3the spice of life most say4 is what eeps most of us guessing, adapting, changing strategy, )ait, depth etc+ all in the continued hope and pursuit of catching the $(R& B2? O$(+ #s to the )est time to catch )ass 6 opinions ,ary greatly on this topic+ 2n some areas, fishing is only allowed after spawning+ !pring, summer and fall 3with fall )eing the )est for most )igger fish4 and e,en winter some form of )ass fishing is a,aila)le to you, depending on where you are, what the weather conditions are li e and what type of year the )ass are ha,ing 3spawning success, health of the )ody of water they li,e and thri,e in, the eco/system, stoc ing, pollution etc+4 (,en ice fishing is possi)le 3more a)out this under specialty fishing closer to the end of the te5t4+ #s pointed out earlier, weather affects )eha,ior and the season and type of water, might all re1uire different approach, e1uipment and )ait and lures8preparation #$% presentation+ #s an angler, a,id )ass angler, this will not faze you in any way" On the contrary, it pro,ides you with the opportunity to shift gears, change strategy, tools, refine s ills, learn more a)out your opponent and its ha)its+ By )eing alert, aware and o)ser,ant, you will learn a lot a)out the fish 6 it is no longer a passi,e sport" .indy, low and or high air pressure, water temperature, choppy wa,es and or surface mo,ement of the water, cloudy s ies, with lots of cloud co,er, mas ing the sun, could dictate whether fish
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will )e )iting or not, color of plastic worms might )e ad9usted from )lue 3on )right days4, to )lac 3on cloudy days with not a lot of sun around4+ Modifying your fishing techni1ues and adapting to weather patterns, e,en ad9usting your )ait8lures, strategy, all )ear witness of an alert )ass master" Bass are also sensiti,e to ,ery )right sunlight, so then you might find them loo ing for some shady co,er and or cooler waters+ &hat nowledge will prepare you well for where to go and loo for them+ 2ncreasing your odds of finding them too" Predatory $ature and creatures of ha)it 6 what the fish themsel,es tell us 3or not"4 &here predators of the deep are rich in their life cycles, ha)its and patters+ 2t is their nature after/all+ &hey are somewhat predicta)le+ #s hunters, they do certain things, instincti,ely and as anglers, we capitalize on it+ &here are lots of facts a)out the species, worth nowing and ey to understanding 6 the secret to unloc ing the success of )ass fishing+ &hin ing li e a hunter oursel,es and at times li e the fish, can increase your odds and success significantly+ Being one with nature and its intricate patterns, )eha,ior, )alance and 1uir iness, allow fisherman to )e s illed, precise, well prepared and more successful, rather than lea,ing it up to e,entuality and random chance to secure a )ite" Preferred ha)itat and fishing structures
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One author li ens contour and topographic maps to )ass fishermen, li e treasure maps to pirates once were+ Lines show ele,ation, depth etc+ ?et an idea of what the 7floor or )ottom of the )ody of water 3li e a la e for instance4 would loo li e 6 it is rarely flat, often characterized )y rises and humps, slopes and drop/offs+ !lopes and access/points into deeper water should also yield more fre1uent, larger hauls and more stri es, as )ass prefer to ha,e access to deeper waters and are constantly on the mo,e, hunting and feeding and or defending territory+ $atural %iet and Menu 6 the art of enticing fish0 creating the right atmosphere8conditions8allure for a stri e+ Lots ha,e already )een said a)out this topic+ !elf/confidence &he )elief in your a)ility to locate and catch the ,arious )ass species, is )y far the )est tool of the trade to foster and de,elop o,er time+ &his cannot )e purchased and is the personal call to e,ery fisherman, to include in his8her tac le/)o5" .hether you choose to use spinners, or swear )y plastic worms, crawfish and other li,e )ait, chum or ha,e a fa,orite lure for reasons and or secrets that are your ,ery own, you use what wor s the )est and what you )elie,e will produce the )ass you
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want, desire and must ha,e" Positi,e attitude goes a long way when learning how to fish for )ass+ Profiting from on/going e5perience, success and failure, your angling and odds will eep impro,ing+ Practice in this case, will go a long way to ena)le success in this unpredicta)le, ,arying situation 6 when you are one/on/one with the most popular game and sporting fish of them all0 &he Bass itself"
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Te"hni1!es For Bass Fishing *ike A ,ro (Wor/s) Ski--ing) 2i--ing) Drift Tro((ing) F(yrodding)
The art of accurate casting Mastering )asic casting is ey+ Most spinning and )ait/casting reel and rod com)inations today, are made for hassle/free, ease/of/ use fle5i)ility )y a ,ariety of anglers 3multi/le,el at that too"4 &ry to eliminate errors from your )asic style and techni1ue+ ! ill and accuracy should matter more than strength and it is not always a)out getting it as far out, as fast as you possi)ly can 3although this might )e important in certain situations and circumstances too"4 Basting, getting your line8hoo 8)ait, sin ers, weights and leaders in and into the water, at the e5act right depth, imitating 7prey, and doing so with e5treme, pin/point accuracy, is what this is all a)out+ 'itting your target with confidence is a ,ery )asic s ill to master and refine+ ?etting the hoo out to e5actly where you wanted it to )e, what you should practice and wor for+ Basting is one part of this process, getting the lure to the right depth 1uite another+ #d,anced )ass anglers suggest using a countdown OR counting method+ <uite simple really+ >orm the moment the )ait hits the water, start counting, DEEE, DEEE and D, DEEE and K, DEEE and O* estimating the seconds it will ta e
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for it to 7drop into the water+ &his will help you now )etter what you are doing, when it hits the )ottom for e5ample, whether or not it got caught on something in the process etc+ YOU esta)lish reference points for yourself on and in the water+ 'ands/on and rod in/hand is the )est way+ Practice/plugs in the par , or your own )ac yard 3)e it on 7dry land, so to spea 4, will ma e you that more effecti,e and accurate, in and on the water, no matter what the )ody of water, or style of fishing you choose to pursue+ .hether spinning, )ait casing or fly/rodding, there is something for e,ery taste+ (,en missed targets, attempts and failure, are also good teachers, as this techni1ue is somewhat of a routine you can master and learn+ Basting a lure with a spinning reel for e5ample, casting float and or leger rig, )ait casting are ,ery similar+ Lure fishing, spinning, floating, spoons, plugs, surface or top/water lures, cran )ait, trolling etc+ are all )asic techni1ues that re1uire e5posure, 1uic demos and hands/on practice+ .e suggest a ,ideo or %@%, or online in/depth e5planation, watching a fishing show or two and getting pointers from other anglers and professionals, as well as finding and defining your own style that you are comforta)le and successful with+ &he )eauty of )ass fishing, is that it offers something for e,eryone, no matter what your prior e5perience with fishing might )e"
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>ocusing on your grip, spinning reels, )ait/casters and or closed/ face spin casters techni1ues and mastery, pic ing a target, aiming to land your lure 3terminal tac le4 in the middle of that target, is a good approach+ #s a general rule of thum), a good arch in the air as a tra,el path en route to the water, is a good reference and goals to ha,e, as you set out to impro,e your casting techni1ue and accuracy+ Line/control is crucial to a,oid o,ershooting, get a gentler landing, slow flight 3)y touching the lip of the spool with the tip of your inde5 finger 3also nown to anglers as 7feathering4 is useful+
Playing and landing fish ?etting to now the feel of a fish on your hoo , line and rod is ,ery important+ Retrie,al is a)out more than simply getting the fish into the eager hands8net8)oat+ Mastery, maneu,ering, responsi,eness, nowledge of your tac le, well/)alanced control, reel/clutching, fighting cur,es and arching8)ending rods and the ,arious controls and settings, techni1ues 3including casting, hoo ing, playing, reeling in, retrie,ing and landing is important+ &hey are so much more than mere steps in a process and or sum/ total of parts+ &o translate into a true )lue/)lood )ass/fishing e5perience and success, appreciation of the symphony of the interplay of process and outcome, tactic, techni1ue, angler, e1uipment, the catch and haul is what is at play here+ .hen using a spinning reel8)ait/casting, there are three ey techni1ues
BASS FISHING 101
47
to master that would include reel control0 with anti/re,erse on, )ac winding 3anti/re,erse off4 and thum)/ pressure control &here is nothing more e5citing than a fish on the run, apply pressure, eep the rod up slightly and increase the 7drag if re1uired, using one of the techni1ues a)o,e+ .atch tension and a,oid line/)rea s and allow the fish to tire+ 2t is one thing to prepare, cast, tease and tempt, hoo and e,entually reel in+ &he process howe,er does not stop there+ More of the )asic techni1ue mastery includes methods of landing fish, li e )eaching 3not suita)le for catch and release4, tailing 3not suited for all species4, lipping 3watch the teethed species here"4, netting or e,en gaffing 3)anned in most areas, due to the ris of the stro e in9uring the fish4+
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&he most useful tip we can pro,ide or suggest, is remaining in control, alert and not upset or startle the fish e,en more+ #llow the tired fish to turn, su)merge the net and a,oid lunging at it+ .hen lipping, grip the lower lip gently )etween your thum) and forefingers, unhoo carefully or hold in the water while freeing it gently, )ut efficiently, without hurting the fish, adhering as far as possi)le, to current and accepted, catch/and/release practices+
Lure-fishing and spinning !pinning tac le and artificial )aits and lures are increasing in popularity and the most popular form of fishing worldwide+ #s far as )ass fishing is concerned, one of the easiest way to attract the species 6 e,en for no,ices and )eginner anglers of all ages and fishing style and s ill/le,els+ Rotation, color and mo,ement, staying as true as you can to the natural diet and target prey of the )ass will optimize your chances+ &he shape and thic ness of the spinning 7)lade on the lure affects the action and mo)ility of the lure 6 how it responds and acts in and under water+ >loating lures are also common and effecti,e especially for deep/ water )ass fishing+ .atch for snagging on the )ottom and ensure to weigh it done appropriately using suita)le weights+ &his method ensures getting the )ait at eye/le,el of the fish+
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49
>or spoons, there are two )road categories, namely trolling and casting spoons+ .eed/less lures mostly ha,e hoo s with nylon or metal weed/guards that pre,ent snagging and or non/weedless spoons are also commonly used+ 'ow to tell which one to use, most )ass anglers loo for shape, weight and speed+ &he )est way to find your way around in any tac le shop or )o5, is to practice and get to now the )eha,ior and or success in different conditions+ &rying to get to now the optimum retrie,al and success rates, may)e e,en logging it in a personal 9ournal as you underta e your )ass 9ourney8hunt for the $(R& B2? O$(" Plugs, surface lures, useful at all fishing le,els, at all speeds ma e these lures ,ersatile, agile and an all/time fa,orite of many a )ass angler+ Matching the lure to the conditions you face and the circumstance, )ody of water and specific species you are fishing for 3small/mouth, large/mouth, striped, spotted, roc , yellow, )lac , white etc+4+ !hallow/di,ing cran /)ait and or surface or top/water lures ha,e pro,en themsel,es most effecti,e for )ass fishing 6 great for fishing shallows+ !tic /)aits and 9er ing, minnow plugs 3or the real thing"4, prop/)aits, surface distur)ers, crawler/type top/water )aits and e,en a floating, dri,ing cran /)ait can pro,e useful+ &he true secret lies in what some call the 7one/two punch 6 teasing and enticing with a top/water or teaser 3surface distur)er4 and then following it up with a plastic worm for
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e5ample on a second rod, for optimizing stri es and yet again tipping the scales in your fa,or+
Plastic worms &here are a ,ast array of worms a,aila)le on the mar et 3)oth li,e )ait and artificial4+ >or a,id )ass anglers they are a necessity+ &he techni1ue to master is hoo ing them properly+ .hen hoo ing a worm for )ass fishing, it is of utmost importance to ensure that you thread it properly+ ?et a lot of the )ody onto the hoo , hoo ing it twice, at top and )ottom+ &his is to ensure that it does not fly loose when you are casting it out into the water+ 2t also protects it somewhat in the su)merged paradise that the )ass shares with other fish, who might want to come and ta e a )ite or sample" Using worms in com)ination with other )aits8lures and enticing techni1ues li e top/water and or hard/)ait surface distur)ers or frogs, eels or whate,er species and )ody of water would deem appropriate :feeding prey; for the )ass of your choice and preference is the ey+ #gain adapting your strategy when necessary and gi,ing the )ass a ,ariety of foods to choose from, will all hopefully increase you odds of hoo ing your ne5t )ass" * e,en if it is not yet the B2? O$("
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3istakes And Se"rets 2e(ated to Bass Fishing

#s we ha,e disco,ered throughout these pages, there is a lot more the )ass fishing than meets the eye+ Once you are familiar with the species, different )odies of water, different and sophisticated fishing and angling e1uipment and accessories, as well as familiarizing yourself with ha)its, patterns and nature, )eha,ior, natural diet and preferred foods, mastering some )asic s ills li e preparation, presentation, tac le, )ait and lures, casting accuracy, nots, hoo s and the intricacies and comple5ities in retrie,al and landing, the 9ourney has )ut started+ &here is so much more to e5plore and learn a)out an through the acti,ity, sport, art and competiti,e science that is )ass fishing, that we can almost say no more than the water await and lets go" #lthough, there are some last thoughts we can offer on some of the more common casting mista es+ &hese 7errors are well/ documented in e5isting literature and easily o,ercome, to optimize your )ass fishing e5perience and haul+ 'ere are )ut a few issues most )eginners struggle with0 3i4o,ershot lure with too much power in the initial cast and the line release not slowed, or 3ii4 the lure falling short or )eing too light, with the line )eing release too early during the cast and or the rod held too high after the line was released+ 3iii4 lure landing too hard, due to the release at too low of an angle and not
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arching enough in the air , and 3i,4 inaccurate casting 3the most common4 6 missing the mar , where the lure goes off/course with too much side/to/side action8motioning of the rod while casting+ Practicing reel and line control, as well as the o,erhead cast might help+ Lots of te5ts 3li e the %orling (ncyclopedia mentioned earlier, pg+ KDK/KDO4, suggests thin ing of 7casting, compared to the mo,ement of the arms on a cloc /face, )eginning in the two ocloc position, pushing )ac to around the noon/position and )ac to the K again, with the rod slightly lowered as the lure drops deeper into the water+ >or most )eginners this 7,isualization often helps refine techni1ue+
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Sty(es And S-e"ia(ty Bass Fishing

Skipping &his techni1ue might remind you a lot of throwing roc s onto the surface of the water to see it 7s ip+ #s a water8top/water distur)ance and mo,ement simulator, it triggers and teases our predator to come up and see what is there to eat8attac + !pinning rods and reel com)o is )est used for this techni1ue 6 perfect for fishing and reaching )ass where they swim and hide under piers, doc s and pontoons+ #lso useful for getting under and into under)rush and growth+ Remem)er their 7comfort zone+ On sunny days, )ass loo for shade, food and shelter and often rest here in shady areas, under co,er of structure+
Ripping !ome call this the throw it out, twitch, 9er and go method+ # medium/action rod with para)olic )end and action to it+ 2f might actually tric our )ass/friend into thin ing there is a 7wounded prey around+ Li e a pro, let the worm drop and settle to the )ottom, remaining there for a period of time+ Reel some slac out of the line, pic ing up the worm with a long, sharp upsweep of the rod tip+ Let 7er rip" Let it drop down again to the )ottom, under tension while slowly lowering the rod tip 6 eep on
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imitating li,e prey li e this, mo,ing, swimming and )o))ing a)out and your predator will stri e it with a ,engeance+
Drift Trolling &railing )ehind the )oat, co,ering the )ottom worms crawl and mo,e, simulating prey in its purest form+ Raise and lower it occasionally, loo ing natural and alluring to any )ass in the ,icinity hunting for a tasty morsel+
Fly-rodding 2n ponds, ,ri,ers, streams and la es this approach is 1uite effecti,e+ >ly/fishing li e techni1ues are ,ery effecti,e with )ass+ Begin )y preparing and rigging a plastic worm, weed/less adding a small split/shot 9ust )efore the hoo + &his will ena)le it to sin slowly+ >lip or cast and allow it to drop and )o) to the )ottom+ <uite the tease and hard for the )ass with een sight, sound and smell to miss+ =eep the tip of the rod ,ery low, to ma e it possi)le for you to ma e a well timed, stri e when you feel a )ass hit+
Night and Ice-fishing !chooling, effecti,e tac le and dropping the lure8)ait right in front of the fish, not ha,ing them e5pend a lot of energy is the ey for these timings and conditions+ .ater tends to )e cooler and all your approaches, strategies and techni1ues need to slow
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down a notch+ Bass also tend to school, during these times+ =nowing this fact can help you in ac1uiring your target )etter and increasing your odds of getting a hit under these unusual or specialty conditions+ 2t is almost an impossi)ility to pro,ide here for e,ery uni1ue condition and we )arely scratched the surface on most of the conte5ts )ass anglers might find themsel,es+ .e loo forward to sharing more secrets with you and learning from your 9ourney"
Fina( Tho!ghts: S!//ary and .on"(!sions

atch-and-release fishing %oing your part to protect nature and conser,e it for future generations, is mandatory and regulated+ Using )ar)/less hoo s and or remo,ing them easily+ 'olding the fish in the water, gently while unhoo ing, minimizing the trauma and damage to the fish is crucial+ !upport the fish and let it go with the current, swimming away and left to li,e another day, for many )attles more to come" %o all you can to understand and adhere to licensing, permits, closed season stipulations, minimum size and catch limits+ &hese and other measures are there to protect and ser,e, to minimize the ris of o,er/fishing and species )ecoming e5tinct+
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&his might not )e the utter finest )oo on )ass fishing e,er written, )ut may the passion and contents inspire you to greatness as an a,id and successful angler+ 2f we can )ut ignite confidence and hints of e5citement for fisher/fol , young and old, then these pages ha,e succeeded" May the road 3and the waters, &he Bass4, come up to meet you* May your 9ourney and 9ournal grow, each entry teaching more, increasing confidence and aptitude" May the pleasures of Bass fishing and the many ways we can choose acti,ely to parta e of it, )ring you continued and continual en9oyment, reward, haul and immense pleasure"
2eferen"es And %ther 4andy Books %n Bass Fishing

Miesen, ?, 'auge, !+, KEEH0 &he >reshwater #ngler / Li,e Bait >ishing+ Breati,e Pu)lishing 2nternational 2nc+, Minnesota+ 2!B$0 DHJGKODMPH Roland, M+ DGGJ0 Roland MartinQs DED Bass/Batching !ecrets 3'ardco,er4.inchester PressU Knd edition+ 2!B$0 EJOKGEMHIE !osin, M+, %ance, B+, DGGG0 &he >ield and !tream Bass >ishing 'and)oo + .here to find and catch large/mouths and small/
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mouths 6 match )aits and lures to e,ery situation+ &he Lyons Press, $ew Yor + 2!B$0 DHHJKDJGHH &he %orling =indersley encyclopedia of fishing 6 Dst #merican (dition+ DGGM %orling =indersley Pu)lishing, London+ 2!B$0 DHPMHJMGKH @aughan, #+ Ladle, M+, DGJJ0 'oo ed on Bass8 &he Browood Press, ?reat Britain+ 2!B$0 DJPDKPPKGM
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%ther on(ine (inks and reso!r"es

a%ge'o+th Bass Ext%e'e . C#ic) he%e ?uaranteed &o 2mpro,e Your Results By !uper/#ccelerating Your Largemouth Bass >ishing &echni1ues to the point of !aturation+++ F#( Fishing Fo% T%o+t / A 0+iet Re*o#+tion . C#ic) he%e #re you interested in disco,ering PRO@($, Astep/)y/stepA >ly >ishing methods significantly impro,ing your !tri e Rate / Using Bomprehensi,e BR(#=&'ROU?' =nowledge $e,er Before !een OR Released to the Pu)licC F#( Fishing Fo% Beginne%s . C#ic) he%e &he >ly/fishing techni1ue / from finding fish hideouts to understanding the lifecycles of the different insects they eat, along with the other comple5ities ha,e fascinated fly fishers for thousands of years+ %a,e Mercers >acts of >ishing, %@% !eries @olume D www+factsoffishing+com Bass >ishing0 &he Basics with Bhuc .oolery, %@%, KEEM www+,ideospace+com
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Bass Fishing $(ossary

3as found at http088www+)assresource+com8fishingVlures8)assVfishing+html #ction / Measure of rod performance that descri)es the elapsed time )etween fle5ion and return to straight configurationU ranges from slow to fast, with slow )eing the most amount of fle5ionU also refers to the strength of the rod 3light, medium and hea,y4 with light )eing a lim)er rod and hea,y a stout rodU also refers to gear of reels+ #cti,e >ish / Bass that are feeding hea,ily and stri ing aggressi,ely+ #daptation / Biological ad9ustment that increases fitness+ #lgae / !imple plant organisms+ #l alinity / Measure of the amount of acid neutralizing )ases+ #lley / #n opening )etween patches of emergent weedsU also the parallel space separating emergent weeds and the shoreline+ #mp / Measure of electrical current+ #mp 'our / !torage capacity measurement of a deep/cycle )atter o)tained )y multiplying the current flow in amps )y the hours that it is produced+ #ngler / Person using pole or rod and reel to catch fish+ #nti/re,erse / !ystem that pre,ents reels from spinning in re,erse+ Bac lash / &angle of line on a )ait/casting reel due to spool o,errun+ Bac water / !hallow area off a ri,er+ Bag Limit / Restriction on the num)er of fish that an angler may har,est in a day+ Bail / Metal, semicircular arm on an open/face spinning reel that engages the line after a cast+ Bait / #n artificial lure is usually what is meant e,en though )ait can also mean li,e )ait+ Bait casting / >ishing with a re,ol,ing/spool reel and )ait casting rodU reel mounted on topside of rod+ Baitfish / !mall fish often eaten )y predators+ Bar / Long ridge in a )ody of water+
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Basic $eeds / Refers to the three sur,i,al re1uirements of )ass0 reproduction, security, and food+ Bay / Ma9or indentation in the shoreline of a la e or reser,oir+ Bite / .hen a fish ta es or touches 3or hammers4 a )ait so that the fisherman feels it+ #lso nown as a hit, )ump, or a stri e+ Blac Bass / Bommon term used to descri)e se,eral types of )ass, including the largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted )ass+ Blan / >ishing rod without grip, guides or finish+ Brac ish / .ater of intermediate salinity )etween seawater and freshwater+ Brea / %istinct ,ariation in otherwise constant stretches of co,er, structure, or )ottom type+ Basically anything, that A)rea s upA the underwater terrain+ Brea line / # line of a)rupt change in depth, )ottom type, or water clarity in the feature of otherwise uniform structure+ # place where there is a sudden or drastic change in the depth of the water, or weed type+ &his may )e the edge of a cree , a su)merged cliff, or e,en a stand of su)merged weeds+ Brush line / &he inside or the outside edge of a stretch of )rush+ Brush pile / Usually refers to a mass of small/ to medium/sized tree lim)s lying in the water+ Brush piles may )e only one or two feet across, or they may )e e5tremely large and they may )e ,isi)le or su)merged+ &hey can )e created )y Mother $ature or manmade+ &hey usually hold fish+ #nd fishermen+ Bumping / Refers to the act of ma ing a lure hit an o)9ect such as a log, tree, or pier piling in a controlled manner+ &his is often done unintentionally, )ut can get the same reaction from the fish+ #lso, a lure ma ing contact with the )ottom+ Buzz)ait / &opwater )ait with large, propeller/type )lades that churn the water during retrie,e+ Bomprised of a leadhead, rigid hoo , and wire that supports one or more )lades+ Buzzing / Retrie,ing a lure, such as a spinner)ait or )uzz)ait, at a rate fast enough to cause it to remain partially out of the water, causing a noisy distur)ance+ !ometimes called ripping or )urning+ Ba))age / #ny of se,eral species of weeds, located a)o,e the surface or underwater, of the genus Potamogeton+ Barolina Rig / # style of terminal tac le normally used to eep a lure a foot or two 3or more4 off the )ottom+ &his is most commonly used with a plastic worm, )ut is also used with floating cran )aits and other lures as well+ # )arrel slip sin er of D8K/ to D/ounce is first slipped on the line and then a swi,el is tied to the end of the line+ # piece of line DJ to OE inches long is then tied to the other end of the swi,el and a hoo or lure is tied to the end of
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this piece line+ Rigged &e5as style 3weedless with the hoo )uried in the )ody of the )ait4, the com)ination is e5cellent for fishing ledges, points, sand)ars, and humps+ %iagram Bhannel / &he )ed of a stream or ri,er+ Bhugger / &opwater plug with a dished/out 3conca,e or AcuppedA4 head designed to ma e a splash when pulled sharply+ Blarity / Refers to the depth you are a)le to see an o)9ect 3such as your lure4 under the water+ Bold >ront / # weather condition accompanied )y high, clear s ies, and a sudden drop in temperature+ Bontact Point / &he deepest position on structure where a )ass angler can first effecti,ely present his lure to )ass as they migrate from deep water+ Bontrolled %rift / &he act of using an electric motor, drift soc , or oars to allow a drift to )e accomplished at a certain speed and8or direction+ &his term is often called Adrift fishingA )y most anglers+ Boontail / !u)merged a1uatic plant of the hornwort family typically found in hard waterU charactreized )y stiff, for ed lea,es+ Bosmic Bloc / &he sunQs seasonal effect on water and weather conditions relating to )arometric pressure, wind, and cloud co,er+ Bount 2t %own / &iming a sin ing lure to determine when it will reach a specified depth+ &his is accomplished )y finding the rate of sin ing of a lure in feet/per/second+ Often used when fishing for suspended fish+ Bo,e / #n indentation along a shoreline+ Bo,er / $atural or manmade o)9ects on the )ottom of la es, ri,ers, or impoundments, especially those that influence fish )eha,ior+ #nything a fish can use to conceal itself+ (5amples include stic /ups, tree lines, stumps, roc s, logs, pilings, doc s, weeds, )oathouses, duc )linds, )ushes, etc+ 3not to )e confused with structure4+ Bran )ait / &ypically, a lipped lure that di,es under the surface during the retrie,e+ !o/ called lipless cran )aits are thin, minnow/li e lures that sin at a rate of a)out D/foot per second+ %a))ling / .or ing a lure up and down in the same spot a dozen or more times in a )ush or )eside a tree+ %epthfinder / # sonar de,ice, either a flasher unit or LBR recorder, used to read the )ottom structure, determine depth, and in some cases actually spot the fishU also called a fishfinder+
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%isgorger / %e,ice for remo,ing hoo s deeply em)edded in the throat of fish+ %rag / %e,ice on fishing reels that allows line to pay out under pressure, e,en though the reel is engagedU set correctly, it ensures against line )rea age+ %rop/Off / # sudden increase in depth, created )y gulley washes, small cree channels, land points, and the general lay of the land+ %rop !hot / # hoo tied directly to the line from four/inches to four/feet a)o,e the sin er+ &he hoo is attached from the )ac side or opposite the point, with a simple Palomar not with a tag end a)out four or fi,e feet long+ &he weight hangs and the hoo is at a GE/degree angle to the line with the hoo point up+ &he hoo can )e DJ to KM inches a)o,e a )ell sin er tied on with a slip/ not+ (cology / &he )ranch of )iology dealing with the relationship )etween organisms and their en,ironment+ (dge / Refers to the )orders created )y a change in the structure or ,egetation in a la e+ !ome e5amples of edges are tree lines, weed lines, and the edge of a drop/off+ (uthrophic / 'ighly fertile waters characterized )y warm, shallow )asins+ >an Bast / Ma ing a series of casts only a few degrees apart to co,er a half circle 3more or less4+ >arm Pond / !mall manmade )ody of water+ >eeder Bree / &ri)utary to a stream+ >eeding &imes / Bertain times of the day when fish are most acti,e+ &hese are associated with the position of the sun and moon and are referred to as solunar ta)les 3also called moon charts4 and are predicta)le for any time and place+ !ee Moon &imes+ >ilamentous #lgae / &ype of algae characterized )y long chains of attached cells that gi,e it a stringy feel and appearance+ >eeding Bycle / Bertain regular inter,als during which )ass satisfy their appetites+ (5amples0 Ma9or or Minor !olunar periodsU sunrise, sunset+ >inesse >ishing / #n angling techni1ue characterized )y the use of light tac le / line, rods, reel and artificial )aits 3often tu)e worms, gru)s, or other small/sized soft/plastic lures4U often producti,e in clear, fairly uncluttered water+ >lat / #n area in a )ody of water with little if any change in depth+ !mall and large, flats are generally surrounded on at least one side )y deeper water, the )ottom comes up to form a flat area where fish will often mo,e up for feeding+
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>lipping / 3generally shortened to flippinQ4 &he techni1ue of placing a lure in a gi,en spot precisely, and 1uietly, with as little distur)ance of the water as possi)le using an underhand cast while controlling the line with your hand+ >lipping !tic / 'ea,y action fishing rod, I to J feet long, designed for )ass fishing+ >lorida Rig / @ery similar to the &e5as Rig, the only difference is the weight is secured )y AscrewingA it into the )ait+ >ly Q$ Rind / !ame thing as 9ig/and/pig / a com)ination of a leadhead 9ig and por rind trailer+ >orage / !mall )aitfish, crayfish and other creatures that )ass eat+ May also )e used in the sense of the )ass loo ing for food 3foraging4+ >ront / .eather system that causes changes in temperature, cloud co,er, precipitation, wind and )arometric pressure+ ?ear Ratio / Measure of a reelsQ retrie,e speedU the num)er of times the spool re,ol,es for each complete turn of the handle+ ?rayline / ?rayline lets you distinguish )etween strong and wea echoes+ 2t ApaintsA gray on targets that are stronger than a preset ,alue+ &his allows you to tell the difference )etween a hard and soft )ottom+ >or e5ample, a soft, muddy or weedy )ottom returns a wea er sym)ol which is shown with a narrow or no gray line+ # hard )ottom returns a strong signal which causes a wide gray line+ ?ru) / # short plastic worm used with a weighted 9ig hoo + 'a)itat / &he place in nature where a plant or animal species li,es+ &he water, ,egetation, and all that ma es up the la e, which is where )ass li,e+ 'a)itat, for other creatures, is also in the woods and cities, itQs )asically a term used to indicate a Ali,ing areaA or home en,ironment+ 'ard Bottom / #rea in a )ody of water with a solid )ase / clay, gra,el, roc , sand+ &he type of )ottom that you would not sin far, if at all, were you to wal on it+ 'awg / Usually refers to a lun er/size or hea,yweight )ass weighing M pounds or more+ 'olding #rea / !tructure that ha)itually holds three to fi,e catcha)le )ass+ 'olding !tation / Place on la e where inacti,e fish spend most of their time+ 'oney 'ole / # super fishing spot containing a num)er of )ig )assU also any place with a large concentration of eeper )ass+ 'orizontal Mo,ement / &he distance a fish mo,es while remaining at the same depth+
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'ump / #n area higher than the surrounding area+ # su)merged dam or island might )e considered a hump+ 2chthyology / &he )ranch of zoology that deals with fishes / their classification, structure, ha)its, and li,e history+ 2nacti,e >ish / Bass that are in a non/feeding mood+ (5amples of typically inacti,e times0 following a cold frontU during a ma9or weather change that causes a sudden rise or fall in water temperature, or when a rising la e le,er is a)ruptly lowered+ 2nside Bend / &he inside line of a grass )ed or a cree channel+ 2solated !tructure / # possi)le holding spot for )assU e5amples include a single )ush on a pointU a midla e hump, or a large tree that has fallen into the water+ -ig / # leadhead poured around a hoo and featuring a s irt of ru))er, plastic, or hair+ -ig/$/Pig / Bom)ination of a leadhead 9ig and por rind trailerU among the most effecti,e )aits for attracting trophy/size )ass+ =eeper / # )ass that conforms to a specific minimum length limit esta)lished )y tournament organizations and8or state fisheries department+ La e Modification !ources / (lements that change )odies of water, such as ice action, wa,e action, and erosion+ La e Wones / %esignation that includes four categories0 shallow water, open water, deep water, and )asin+ Laydown 3or >alldown4 / # tree that has fallen into the water+ Light 2ntensity / &he amount of light that can )e measured at certain depths of waterU the greater the intensity, the farther down the light will pro9ect+ &his measurement can )e significantly affected )y wind conditions and water clarity+ 2n waters where light intensity is low, )rightly colored lures are smart choices+ Line ?uides / Rod rings through which fishing line is passed+ Lipless Bran )aits / #rtificial )aits designed to resem)le a swimming )aitfish+ !uch plugs ,i)rate and8or wo))le during retrie,eU some ha,e )uilt/in rattles+ #lso called swimming )aits+ Li,ewell / #n aerated tan in )oats used to hold fish in water until weigh/in time so that they ha,e a )etter chance of sur,i,al when released+ !imilar to an a1uarium+ Log9am / # group of horizontal logs pushed together )y wind or water flow to form an o)struction+ 2n la es, log9ams are usually found close to shore and in the )ac s of co,es+ Loose/#ction Plug / # lure with wide and slow mo,ements from side to side+
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Lun er / $ormally, a )ass weighing M pounds or more+ Micropterus !almoides / !cientific term for largemouth )ass+ Migration Route / &he path followed )y )ass when mo,ing from one area to another+ Milfoil / !urface/growing a1uatic plants+ Mono / !hort for monofilament fishing line+ Moon &imes / >our phases of the moon are usually what the fisherman is concerned with+ ?enerally the A)est timesA in a month occur three days prior and three days after, and include the day of the new or full moon+ >irst 1uarter and second 1uarter periods are considered as only Agood times+A Off Bolor / Refers to the color and or clarity of the water+ Brown is muddy li e from rain runoff, greenish from algae and )lac from tannic acid are the normal off/color conditions+ Our 'ole / Proprietary term used )y anglers to descri)e the area they intend to fish+ 3My hole, their hole, etc+4 &hough actually all holes are all anglerQs holes since the la es )eing fished are mostly pu)lic water+ 2tQs only your hole if you get there first+ Otherwise itQs their hole+ Outside Bend / &he outside line of a cree channel or grass )ed can )e considered on outside )end+ O5)ow / # U/shaped )end in a ri,er+ Pattern / # defined set of location and presentation factors that consistently produce fish+ (5ample0 2f you catch more than one fish off a pier or stic /up, then your chances of catching more )ass in such places are e5cellent+ &his is commonly called Aesta)lishing a patternA+ Pegging / Putting a toothpic in the hole of a slip sin er to pre,ent the sin er from sliding along the line+ Other items such as ru))er )ands slipped through the sin er ha,e also )ecome popular and donQt snag line+ P>% / 2nitials that stand for Personal >loatation %e,iceU also called a life ,est+ p' / &his is a measurement for li1uids to determine whether they are acidic or al aline+ On a scale of one to ten, se,en is considered neutral+ Below se,en the li1uid is acidic and a)o,e se,en it is al aline+ &his is a factor that plays a role in the health of the la e and the fish as well as where the fish may )e found in a la e+ p' Meter / -ust as a thermometer measures heat and cold, a p' meter can )e used to measure the acidity and al alinity of water+ &he p' scale ranges from E to DM+ Bass generally prefer water that is slightly al aline in the I+H to I+G range+ .ater with a p' less
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than I is acidic+ Once popular among serious )ass fishermen, the de,ice is no longer widely used+ Pic /Up / &he act of a )ass ta ing a slowly fished lure, such as a plastic worm, crawfish or lizard+ Pit / #rea e5ca,ated for mining operations that fills with water+ Pitching / Presentation techni1ue in which worms or 9igs are dropped into co,er at close range with an underhand pendulum motion, using a P C to ID8K foot )aitcasting rod+ &he act of pitching a )ait into a poc et or under tree lim)s+ !imilar to flipping, )ut re1uires less stealth and usually done from further distances 3 nown as pitchinQ4+ Poc et / # small indentation of the shoreline+ Point / # finger of land 9utting into the waterU deeper water is usually found 9ust )eyond the e5posed tip and along the length of )oth sides+ >ishing on and around points is often e5ceptionally rewarding+ &hey almost always hold fish+ Post >ront / &he period following a cold frontU atmosphere clears and )ecomes )rightU usually characterized )y strong winds and a significant drop in temperature+ Presentation / # collecti,e term referring to choice of type of lure, color, and sizeU structure targetedU amount of distur)ance a )ait ma es when entering the waterU and retrie,al techni1ue, speed, and depth used to catch fish+ &his refers to the circumstances and manner 3speed and direction, etc+4 in which a lure is presented to a fish+ Pro / # ,ery few of the nationQs top )ass fishermen can truly claim the word professional+ $ot only must the pro )e a consistent money winner on the ma9or tournament circuits, )ut he or she must also )e articulate, a good salesperson, present a clean/cut image, and ha,e the a)ility to teach others to catch fish+ Professional O,errun / # polite term for )ac lash+ Re,ol,ing/!pool Reel / #nother term for )aitcasting reel+ &he spool turns during casting, unli e the spool of a spinning or spincasting reel+ Reser,oir / #rtificially created place where water is collected and storedU also called an impoundment+ Riprap / # man/made stretch of roc s or material of a hard composition that usually e5tend a)o,e and )elow the shorelineU often found near dams of )ig impoundments+ !addle / !ite where structure narrows )efore widening again+ !anctuary / %eep/water )ass ha)itat+ !catter Point / Position along structure where )ass start to separate or scatterU often found in shallow water, at or ,ery close to a )rea line+
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!hort !tri e / .hen a fish hits at a lure and misses it+ !lac Line / &he loose line from the tip of the rod to the lure+ &his can )e a slight )ow in the line to an e5cess of line lying on the water+ !lic s / Bass not long enough to meet tournament standardsU typically less than DM inches+ !uch fish also are called Anu))ins A, Athrough )ac sA, Apop cornsA, A)a)iesA and Adin sA+ !lip !in er / # lead weight with a hole through the center+ &hreaded on line, a slip sin er slides freely up and down+ !lough / # long, narrow stretch of water such as a small stream or feeder tri)utary off a la e or ri,er+ !low Roll / !pinner)ait presentation in which the lure is retrie,ed slowly through and o,er co,er o)9ects+ !lush Bait / &opwater plug with flat or pointed head+ !pincaster / # manner of fishing employing a push/)utton, closed/face spinning reel and )aitcasting rodU reel is mounted on topside of rod+ !pinner)ait / # leadhead lure similar in shape to an open safety/pin with a hoo U other features include a ru))er, plastics, or hair s irt, and one or two )lades of ,arious shapes and sizes+ !pinning / # manner of fishing employing an open/face or closed/face spinning reel an spinning rodU reel is mounted on the underside of the rodU rod guides are on the underside of the rod+ !plit !hotting / Often called stitch fishing )ecause you mo,e the )ait in increments no larger than a sewing stitch and made 9ust as slowly and patience is the ey+ Use a small LH split/ shot and crimp it a)out DJ inches a)o,e a light wire D8E or lighter small hoo + !pinning tac le is a must+ !mall worms, O/inch salt craws and others are perfect for the gentle application re1uired+ !poo / &he act of alarming a fish in a negati,e way+ (5amples0 e5cessi,e noise, casting a human shadow+ !tic /Up / !tationary structure / stump, lim), section of pipe, fence post / that e5tends a)out H feet or less a)o,e the surfaceU a fa,orite casting target of )ass fishermen+ !tragglers / Bass that remain near shore following a general migration+ !tringer / #nti1uated term for a limit of fish, used )y tournament anglers to indicate their catch 3DE/pound stringer X DE pounds of fish+ $ot actually used any longer to retain )ass, 9ust a term people canQt seem to stop using+ 3see li,ewell4+
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!tructure / Bhanges in the shape of the )ottom of la es, ri,ers, or impoundments, especially those that influence fish )eha,ior+ &his is pro)a)ly the most misunderstood word in )ass fishing+ !tructure is a feature on the )ottom of the la e+ !ome e5amples of structure are cree s, humps, depressions, sand)ars, road)eds, ledges, and drop/offs+ !ome e5amples that are not structure0 a stump, tree, or )rush pile 3these are co,er4+ !uspended >ish / Bass at midle,el depths, neither near the surface nor on the )ottom+ !wimming Lures / !in ing/type artificial )aits designed to resem)le a swimming )aitfish+ !uch plugs ,i)rate and8or wo))le during retrie,eU some ha,e )uilt/in rattles+ #lso called lipless cran )aits+ &ail/!pinners / Bompact, lead/)odied lures with one or two spinner )lades attached to the tail, and a tre)le hoo suspended from the )odyU designed to resem)le a wounded shadU effecti,e on schooling )ass+ &aper / #n area in a )ody of water that slopes toward deeper depths+ &erminal &ac le / #ngling e1uipment, e5cluding artificial )aits, attached to the end of a fishing lineU e5amples include hoo s, snaps, swi,els, snap/swi,els, sin ers, floats, and plastic )eads+ &e5as Rig / &he method of securing a hoo to a soft/plastic )ait / worm, lizard, crawfish, so that the hoo is weedless+ # slip sin er is threaded onto the line and then a hoo is tied to the end of the line+ &he hoo is then inserted into the head of a worm for a)out one/1uarter of an inch and )rought through until only the eye is still em)edded in the worm+ &he hoo is then rotated and the point is em)edded slightly into the worm without coming out the opposite side+ %iagram &hermocline / &he layer of water where the temperature changes at least one/half a degree per foot of depth+ Basically, a layer of water where rising warm and sin ing cold water meet+ &ight/#ction Plug / # lure with short, rapid side/to/side mo,ement+ &iptop / Line guide at top of fishing rod+ &opwaters / >loating hard )aits that create some degree of surface distur)ance during retrie,e+ &railer 'oo / &he e5tra hoo , or cheater hoo added to a single/hoo lure, such as a spinner)ait or weedless spoon+ &ransition / &he imaginary line where one type of )ottom material changes to another+ &re)le 'oo / 'oo with single or )undled shaft and three points+ &riggering / (mployment of any lure/retrie,al techni1ue or other fishing strategy that causes a )ass to stri e+
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&rolling Motor / # small electric fishing motor, typically mounted on the )ow, that is used as secondary )oat propulsion, for )oat positioning, and to maneu,er 1uietly in fishing areas+ &urno,er / &he period when the cold water on the surface of a )ody of water descends and is replaced )y warmer water from )elow+ @ertical Mo,ement / Up and down mo,ement of fish+ Ban also )e mo,ement of a lure such as a spoon 3,ertical9igging4+ .eedless / # description of a lure designed to )e fished in hea,y co,er with a minimum amount of snagging+ .eedline / #)rupt edge of a weed)ed caused )y a change in depth, )ottom type, or other factor+ .orminQ / &he act of fishing with a plastic worm, lizard, crawfish, or similar )ait+
a%ge'o+th Bass Ext%e'e . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e ?uaranteed &o 2mpro,e Your Results By !uper/#ccelerating Your Largemouth Bass >ishing &echni1ues to the point of !aturation+++ F#( Fishing Fo% T%o+t / A 0+iet Re*o#+tion . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e #re you interested in disco,ering PRO@($, Astep/)y/stepA >ly >ishing methods significantly impro,ing your !tri e Rate / Using Bomprehensi,e BR(#=&'ROU?' =nowledge $e,er Before !een OR Released to the Pu)licC F#( Fishing Fo% Beginne%s . C#ic) he%e to )now 'o%e &he >ly/fishing techni1ue / from finding fish hideouts to understanding the lifecycles of the different insects they eat, along with the other comple5ities ha,e fascinated fly fishers for thousands of years+

Bass Fishing 101: How to Catch the Next Big One

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Bass Fishing 101

How to Catch The Next Big One

Bass Fishing 101: How To Catch The Next Big One

BASS FISHING 101

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ntrod!"tion - #nowing And $oing Where The Bass Are

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The Basi"s %f Bass Fishing & An %'er'iew

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