Friday, December 18, 2009

Great Fishing In Port Charlotte FL

                        "Some Great Photos of some fish caught in and around Port Charlotte FL"

                                                           Captain Marc with a tarpon    



                                                           Nice Redfish  (red drum)

                               





                                                              Look At that Snook


                                                                   Capt.  Marc


                                                         Some Good Eating There!






"My First Snook"



My good friend Marc ( The Fisherman) was nice enough to lend me these
fantastic photos. Marc also charters fishing trips in and around Port charlotte FL. If you would like more information on getting Marc as a
guide or fishing in Port charlotte Harbor send me an email and I will get
back with as soon as possiable. Marc has a busy schedule coming up this
winter but I,m sure he just might be able to fit you in.

                                                              " A Nice Snook"




my contact email: chipmatt59@yahoo.com
Subject Line: I want to fish with Marc

Enjoy the photo's------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Tackle Tip : Kayak Fishing Gear You Must Have




Kayak fishing is a unique experience that you can't get with any other type of fishing. It's a thrill to be out on the water reeling in a mess of fish from one of these amazing water vessels.

More and more anglers are getting in on the action and giving this type of fishing a try. However, if you want to have the best experience each time you go kayak fishing, you need to have the right type of gear.

The first thing to remember is that being out on the water in a kayak is much different than being on a boat. In fact, it's an experience in itself and something that you'll always remember. Add the excitement of fishing to this and you have the ingredients for an adventure filled with some great fishing stories. To ensure these stories are filled with good experiences, make sure you have the gear needed to stay safe while on the water.

Kayak Gear:

Personal Floatation Device - Never go out on the water in a kayak without a life jacket that you can wear comfortably. There are some that are designed especially for the kayaker that are easier to move around in.

Whistle - The whistle is a small piece of equipment that is considered vital. Keep your whistle clipped to you at all times so it will be available in the event of an emergency.

Kayak Anchor - If you want to stay in the strike zone you need an anchor to help keep you from drifting off in another direction.

Paddle Leash - When you're fishing and reel in that nice catch, you don't want to be worried about the paddle floating away so you need a leash to keep it secure. You should also use other types of anchoring devices to secure other items to prevent them from being lost overboard.

Safety Box - You should have a safety box that will keep all of your personal things dry and secure. This is where you can keep your keys, compass, flares, first aid kit, waterproof flashlight and anything else you consider important.
It never hurts to have a cell phone on hand as well.

Now it's time for a list of the kayak fishing gear that you'll need:

Fishing Gear:
Rod and Reel - The rod and reel you choose should be one that can be used easily from a kayak. Normally, the rod should be at least 7 feel long in order to reach across the kayak and the reel should be matched to the weight of the rod.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltw aterfishing. com/editorials/ 5_kayak-fishing- gear-you- must-have. html for more information on kayak saltwater fishing.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Five Secrets for Bass Fishing in Mexico



If you're planning a bass fishing trip south of the boarder there are things you're going to want to prepare for. Mexico has some great bass fishing and the experience can be one you'll take with you for forever.

Like any trip you'll want to make sure that you have the right equipment in order to catch the most amount of fish. Sun screen is very much recommended since getting sunburned is only going to tire you out quicker. In fishing the fish are the ones that need to get tired and give up not the fisherman.

Since Mexico has a lot warmer water than you'd find in other places in the world, the bass are going to be a bit tougher to catch. Warm water bass are a lot more aggressive and this makes them harder to catch with certain lures and lines.

The good part about the heat is that it brings out the bugs more so than the cold. The warmer weather in Mexico will give you a more diversity in insect life that you can use for bait, particularly live bait.

If you're ready to take your bass fishing to the next level with a trip to Mexico than you're going to need these five secrets for bass fishing in Mexico.

Preparing a Mexico Fishing Trip
The first thing you're going to be looking at doing is deciding where exactly you're going to be fishing. Mexico has many different areas for bass fishing and many of them have extraordinary lodging available.

You can normally find package deals where you can get a room, boat and bait for one flat fee. While some areas offer great deals like these others just provide lodging and it's up to you to find the fishing spots.

Anglers Inn Lake El Salto, Lake Baccarac Lodge, Lake Agua Milpa Lodge, Lake Huites Lodge, Lago Vista Lodge Lake Guerrero and Hacienda Las Palmas Lake Guerrero are just a few examples of fishing resorts you'll find in Mexico.

Each offers different packages but all offer great fishing. If you're going to take a trip to Mexico you need to secure a nice fishing spot before you leave.

Bass Fishing Lures
No bass fishing trip is going to be successful without a nice set of lures to choose from. Knowing what types of lures will work on bass is just the first step of the process. There are many different kinds of lures such as:
Live bait
Crankbait
Spinnerbait
Topwater Plugs
Jigs

These are some of the most successful baits you'll find when going bass fishing. Depending on the location of your trip will depend on what types of lures you'll want to use. Some are going to be much more effective than others.

Knowing your surroundings is going to really help in choosing the right bait.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 8_bass-fishing- in-mexico. html for more information on Bass Fishing in Mexico.

Three Tips for Texas White Bass Fishing


If you like fishing for the Texas White Bass you probably realize that it is one of the most difficult types of fish in the world to catch. If you just follow these simple fishing tips you can easily be successfully each and every time you go fishing for this astounding fish.

All you have to do is concentrate and remain optimistic throughout your entire fishing trip. If you do not concentrate then you will have no chance at all at catching these difficult fish. The best fishermen in the world maintain a high level of concentration throughout their fishing trips so you should as well.

One of the most important things to have with you on a fishing trip is a good fishing rod. Many amateur fishermen make the big mistake of not having a good fishing rod. The reason for this is that they think that the kind of fishing rod that you have is not important. In reality, the type of fishing rod that you can have can determine if you are going to have a successful fishing trip or not.

The best fishermen in the world always use type of the line fishing rods so you should as well.

The reason as to why most fishermen do not want to purchase an expensive fishing rod is the money. Most of these fishermen do not realize that having a better fishing rod will actually save them more money in the long run. The reason for this is that cheap fishing rods do not last for as long as expensive fishing rods do.

As a result, you have to purchase fishing rods more often if you use low quality fishing rods. If you were to use higher quality fishing rods then you would not purchase these rods as often and you would ultimately save money.

One of the most important things to do when you are fishing for the Texas White Bass is to turn your motor off when you are fishing. Many amateur fishermen make the mistake of keeping their motor on while they are fishing.

As a result, they scare off the majority of the fish that are in their area. The best fishermen in the world always turn their motors off when they are fishing. This allows them to catch the fish without alerting them of their presence.

When fishing for Texas White Bass you should always use bait that has a high fat content. Most fishermen do not realize that the types of foods that these fish love have high fat content. One strategy that you could use for bait is to use smaller fish as bait for the Texas White Bass.

Alternatively, you could use small pieces of other fish if you don't want to use an entire fish. Many fishermen make the mistake of using their bait sparingly. The fact of the matter is that the Texas White Bass will not bite onto your bait if there is not a big meal waiting for him.



Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 6_texas-white- bass-fishing. html for more information on Texas white bass.

Tips On Trolling Speed For Stripers


You may have heard of some bass fishing techniques that will help you to be flexible when you are out on the lake. If you have then the likelihood is that trolling is one of them. Trolling is an incredibly popular method you can use in freshwater and saltwater bass fishing but has been reported to offer greater benefits for bass fishing enthusiasts that use it when fishing for striped bass.

It also works when fishing for largemouth, smallmouth, white and sea bass as well but tends to work better for stripers for a number of reasons, which we will go into shortly.

Trolling is effectively fishing by dragging a lure or bait of your choice behind a boat, which should of course be moving. You do not have to troll just one bait or lure behind the boat but can choose a wide variety of baits and have them at various depths as well.

This is the beauty of trolling. It actually spoils the bass for choice and increases the chance of you getting a bite. Of course, you cannot troll for bass when in limited water areas so it has to be on larger lakes and seas. When trolling for stripers, you of course have to also be aware of the nature of stripers. For example, you have to be aware of the fact that they are incredibly lively and will bite relatively easily if the baits and lures you use are correct. They will also put a lot of energy into escaping as well so be aware that you must be vigilant and reel your catch in as soon as possible after it bites.

However, one of the elements of trolling for stripers that bass fishing enthusiasts often get wrong is the speed of the boat itself. Trolling speed need not be difficult at all providing that you do your homework. Make sure you know what to do by following all of the tips below and you will definitely have a measure of success with this method of bass fishing!

The optimum speed when trolling for stripers is between 1 and 2 knots. As such, it is quite a brisk speed but not too fast. Going this speed will not scare the stripers off or disturb the natural environment, which is why many people going that speed will indeed attract the stripers. Start off at this speed every single time to make sure that you can get a good idea of how the fishing action is going to go that day. Only then should you make the decision to slow the boat or speed it up a touch
Never go above 3 knots when trolling for stripers no matter how much you might want to. A speed that is any higher than that will disturb the natural habitat, which will not earn you popularity from others on a lake! It will scare off the bass and really hinder your chances of getting a decent catch rate.


Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 7_tips-on- trolling- speed-for- stripers. html for more information on trolling for stripers.

Five Secrets for Fishing in Salt Water




If you are a fisherman then you probably realize how lucrative salt water fishing can be. At the same time, you may not realize how difficult salt water fishing can be. Many fishermen believe that saltwater fishing is significantly more difficult than freshwater fishing. Even though salt water fishing can be difficult, you can still become good at it if you remain focused and use proper technique. The most experienced fishermen in the world have a few secrets for fishing in salt water. The following five secrets will help you to become a successful saltwater fisherman and catch fish on every trip.

One of the closely guarded secrets that professional fishermen have is in regards to the type of bait that they use. A lot of world class fishermen will actually make home-made bait out of things like tuna as well as peanut butter.

This allows them to lure the fish to a piece of bait that has an extremely strong scent. Most amateur fishermen do not think outside of the box and they just use standard bait. This standard bait often loses its scent because of how long it sits in its package. If you want to become a master at salt water fishing then you will use home-made bait.

One secret that professional fishermen have that is not as closely guarded is in regard to the motor of your boat. Most fishermen know that they should turn their motor off when they have their line cast in the water. The reason for this is that if you leave your motor on you will scare the fish away. A lot of professional fishermen like to bring oars with them in order to navigate through the water without alerting the nearby fish to their presence. You may want to try bringing oars with you on your next fishing trip to become extra stealthy!

Another one of the most closely guarded fishing secrets on the face of the earth is in regards to the type of lure that you use. Most amateur fishermen do not realize that the type of lure you use can have a great impact on your success rate for catching fish. If you are trying to catch cat fish then you should purchase a lure that looks like the type of food that a cat fish will eat. This realistic looking lure will trick the fish into thinking it is real food!

One of the more simple secrets that some fishermen have is in regards to bringing the proper equipment. Most amateur fishermen make the mistake of organizing their fishing equipment at the last minute. Did you know that all professional fishermen organizing their fishing equipment the night before a fishing trip? This allows them to have ample time to check to make sure they have all of the supplies that they are going to need. If you do this, you will never go out on a boat while forgetting important supplies!

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltw aterfishing. com/editorials/ 6_five-secrets- fishing-in- salt-water. html for more information on Fishing in Salt Water.

Five Winter Walleye Fishing Tips




If you are an avid walleye angler, you probably like to fish all year long. Winter walleye fishing tips can help you find the fish, master the skill of fishing in the winter and how to have a fulfilling day out on the ice. If you know that the water you are fishing has walleye in it, then you can successfully fish walleye in the winter. Although some anglers fish for other species during the winter months, you can find walleye that are feeding.

You just have to be patient and they will come. Location is the key to walleye fishing in the winter. When there is ice on the water, you want to fish by the basins in about eighteen to forty feet of water.

You can also fish the shallow water when the water is just starting to ice over. When fishing the deeper water, fish the mudflats and basins. However, more than location, the time is important. You want to fish early morning hours or evening hours. If it is snowing and overcast or cloudy, you will have a better day than when the sun is shinning brightly through the ice. Try starting an hour before the sunrises and for about two hour after, or a half hour before dark and into the dark.

Bait is something that is important to keep in mind when you are winter fishing for walleye. Use a heavier Rapala jigging rap or a spoon. Use a monofilament test line on a short, slightly heavy ice fishing rod. When the fishing is slow, you should present the bait slowly, but when the feeding is aggressive, you can be just as aggressive with your presentation. One thing you might try is ripping the spoon and then letting it freefall. This seems to stir up the fish and they come running. You can use a minnow cut off right below the gills. This way, when you get a bite, you are going to feel it.

When you first get out on the ice, remember the areas where you fished underwater structures before the ice. Chances are good that the walleye will still be in that general area. The best thing to use for ice fishing for walleye is a sonar unit. This will prevent having to drill holes all over the ice while you are trying to find the fish. If you are using a fish shanty, you have to be precise when you drill your hole. If you are out in the open, you may want to drill holes around the perimeter of the school.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalle yefishing. com/editorials/ 5_winter- walleye-fishing- tips.html for more information on Winter Walleye Fishing.

Fishing Tip : The Best Method To Catch Northern Pike




The northern pike is a species of fish that live in fresh water. These fish are very aggressive and powerful, so fishing for northern pike can be very difficult.

However, it can also be very exciting. The northern pike is able to grow to a vast length. In fact, they very often grow longer than forty inches. They tend to weigh between fifteen and twenty five pounds. A nice northern pike is any that is over thirty inches long and weighs between five and seven pounds.

There are a lot of fishermen that plan trips specifically in an effort to catch the northern pike. These trips are done on an annual basis. The best places for catching northern pike are situated in the northern parts of the United States of America and also areas of Canada.

In the United States of America some of the best areas are Lake of Woods, Leech Lake, Mille Lacs Lake and Vermilion. All of these four lakes are within the area of Minnesota. Within Canada the best lakes for fishing for northern pike are Eagle Lake, Red Lake, Lake of the Woods and also Lac Seul.

It is fairly easy to locate and catch the smaller northern pike, as they tend to spend a great deal of time in the shallow areas that are weedy. These areas are between two and fifteen feet in depth.

The larger northern pike are not quite so easy to catch as they tend to start off living amongst the smaller pike. As the weather gets warmer they move off into deeper waters of usually between fifteen and thirty feet in depth. The fishing of these big northern pike is more difficult as they become more scattered.

The fishermen spend the summer months angling for the northern pike; however, if the water becomes too hot then this can be very difficult. If the pike are unable to find cooler water then they will not eat as often, and they also eat very little.

The fishermen should fish for the northern pike during the day light hours, as they tend to be rarely caught during the night. However, it is not completely unknown of. The northern pike that are mature tend to stay in one area and hide amongst the weedy coverage. They do this to wait for the baitfish.

The northern pike lay motionless waiting within the weeds or near submerged logs and rocks, and they then make a short vicious lunge at the passing bait fish. The northern pike also tend to be found near any freshwater environment.

There often seems to be a large number of northern pike around the inlets and bays of the larger lakes and even the Great Lakes in Canada and the harbor of the United States of America. These areas have warmer water and a lot more food than the areas of open water.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalle yefishing. com/editorials/ 4_best_method_ catch_northern_ pike.html for more information on walleye fishing.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Fishing Tackle: Making Wooden Fishing Lures For Beginners





When I was a boy I wanted to try my hand at making wooden fishing lures. I remember how I used to marvel at all the lures in my tackle box and wonder at how to make fishing lures. So without any experience or anyone to help me I tried to make my own homemade fishing tackle. Let's just say my first few attempts didn't quite turn out. That's why I decided to write this article on making wooden fishing lures so that you can avoid making the same mistakes I did when I first tried.

My first attempt at making homemade fishing tackle went like this if I remember correctly. I grabbed on old broken broom from my mom's closet and did my best at hand carving out a very rough looking fishing lure. I didn't know anything about what wood selection, sealing the wood or proper painting techniques I just wanted to make my own homemade fishing tackle. Back then there wasn't anyone to help me, no internet just plain trial and error.

Once I had sanded the wooden lure into shape and used some of my dads eye screw from his tool box and attached a few hooks I took my car modeling testor paints and gave that fishing lure the best minnow paint job that would make any 12 year old boy proud. I remember heading down to the lake and trying her out when I was finished. What a disaster! The fishing lure didn't wobble like the other wooden lures in my tackle box and my paint job lasted all of 5 minutes before it began to peel and curl and hang off my homemade fishing tackle like a wet soggy noodle. I was broken hearted. Wow making wooden fishing lures was a lot harder then I had hoped.

In retrospect how to make fishing lures isn't actually difficult it just takes some proper consideration and technique. The tools needed do not have to be complex and you don't have to spend a lot of money. In fact a lot of fishing lure making jigs can be constructed from old scraps lying around and they will do as good of a job as any fancy spinner wire making jig around.

Here are a couple quick tips on making wooden fishing lures.

1. Proper Wood Selection. While you can craft out a lovely looking crankbait from your mom's or wife's old broom handles it isn't exactly the best choice. Most wooden baits in our tackle box are made from balsa or basswood. However not a lot of people have access to these kinds of woods so easily without either having to travel to an exotic wood store or through special order. So what's a guy to do? Well, take a tip from antique lure collectors. There's a lot of great lures back in the old days that used red or white cedar. These woods make excellent wooden lures and are a lot more accessible for the average hobbyist how wants to learn how to make fishing lures.

2. Seal the Wood Before you Paint.I know that for a lot of wood projects you often seal and varnish the wood when you're done to protect it. This isn't the best option when it comes to painting a professional job on your wooden lure. By sealing the wood with a couple light coats before you paint you make the job of painting a lot easier. Great lure painting comes with practice but you will find it is a lot easier to get even coats if you seal the wood before you paint. Also after sealing make sure to sand the lure one more time before painting. Sometimes sealing the wood raises the grain a bit, even if you can't feel or see it. By sanding after sealing with using fine grade sandpaper you help to lower that grain and make it even. Again making it easier to get a nice even coat of paint.

Making wooden lures isn't a terribly difficult task but it does take some thought and technique to turn out a lure that is going to rival any rapala you have in your tackle box. There's a lot more to learning how to make homemade fishing tackle and it's best to read more about the subject before trying. That way you'll save yourself the same experience that I had when I was a boy trying to make wooden fishing lures.

For information about tackle making and get some great tips visit [http://www.squidoo.com/tacklemaking]homemade fishing tackle. There you will find a lot of great information and resources to help you get started in this fun hobby of making fishing lures.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Bolton http://EzineArticles.com/?Making-Wooden-Fishing-Lures-For-Beginners&id=1102090

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Fishing Tackle Secret: Secrets for Redtail Catfishing



The redtail catfish are some of the most beautiful fish you could ever catch. They are also a very large and intelligent predatory catfish. They are native to South America and can be found in the Amazon River. They flourish in water temperatures that average around 78 degrees. They are rarely used for food by the locals in their native environment and consumed even less often by the American people as food because they are considered a red meat and not a good source of food. White meat is much more popular everywhere.

The redtail catfish are exported all over the world when they are very young but they are not often bred outside of their original habitat because most attempts fail. One thing is for sure, the redtail is a very unique and distinct fish.

They are actually black with a white stripe running horizontally through the middle of their side. They got their name from the red dorsal and caudal fins that are very distinctive.

They belong to the pimelodidae family and if the spines on the red fins are touched, they can release a red dye which will slightly stain the skin. In their natural habitat they can grow up to three feet wide and five feet long making them one of the largest catfish found anywhere in the world. They are often caught as babies and sold for aquariums all around the world. They will only grow to the size the fishing tank permits but this doesn't make them any less aggressive.

How to Catch the Redtail

The redtail catfish is well-known for having a big appetite. A large redtail could easily engulf a small child or animal. The hundreds of tiny teeth that are found on the inside of their mouth can grasp and hold onto their food while it's being consumed. They will eat bones and hair or anything else attached to their food. Their mouths are huge and will open wide making it possible for them to consume large prey (such as a small child).

They don't chew the food they eat but instead they will simply chop on it with all those teeth a few times and swallow the remains.
They sound like very aggressive fish because of their huge appetite but for the most part they eat when a good meal presents itself and then they conserve energy by lying still for long periods of time. Despite their huge size and big appetites the redtail catfish is often sought out by anglers for their beauty and because of the challenge they provide. So how do you catch a redtail catfish? The following secrets can help you get prepared.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 8_five-secrets- for-redtail- catfishing. html for more information on Redtail Catfishing.

Great Fishing Tackle Tip: Differences Between Catfish Bobbers



Catfish fishing is a sport that's growing more each year. These amazing fish provide for an experience that you'll never forget. When you plan your next fishing trip you'll want to see if there are catfish available in the area you're going to be going to. Passing up an opportunity to fish catfish could be something you'll regret later. Anglers of all ages can enjoy the experience of catfish fishing. If you've been looking to get into fishing catfish there is no better time than now.

Many fishermen choose to fish for catfish exclusively after their first tangle with one. This is probably because of the rush you get when you hook one of these monstrous fish. Due to their aggressive nature and the many different locations you can find them in, makes catfish some of the best sport you'll ever find. If you're interested in going catfish fishing you'll need to some homework on them before setting out.

One of the most important things to remember when going fishing for any fish is to prepare the right gear. If you don't have the right equipment you're not going to be catching much of anything. Plan out your tackle so that it's organized into the different fish you may come across. Having a well organized tackle can mean the difference between success and failure.

Even the most novice of anglers that don't have much in their tackle should keep it as organized as possible. This will save you time when you get to where you're going. Your pole, lines, baits, hooks and bobbers should all be kept together in an organized fashion.

While much of this gear is important there is one thing that many fishermen don't know enough about and that's the bobber.

Types of Catfish Fishing Bobbers
Depending on whom you talk to will depend on the opinion of fishing bobbers. Some will tell you that only new fishermen should be using these devices, while others will swear that you'd be crazy not to use one. Regardless of what you believe, knowing the differences between catfish fishing bobbers can help you increase your chances of success dramatically. Let's take a look at some differences between catfish fishing bobbers.

One of the first things to understand about a bobber is that it's meant to make your life a little easier. If you can't always feel the line getting pulled, attaching a bobber allows you to watch the line jump up and down. This is why it's great for the anglers that are newer to fishing. Placing the bobber on properly is extremely important since placing it on wrong might cause it to not work properly.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 8_differences- between-catfish- bobbers.html for more information on catfish fishing bobbers.

Fishing Tackle Tip: Oklahoma Catfish Baits


Fishing in Oklahoma is very popular and one of the most sought after species of fish in this area is the catfish. There are several types of catfish found in Oklahoma and they can be found in all types of waters from ponds to rivers. You will even find one species of catfish here that spends some of its time on dry land. The catfish is a very aggressive species and they don't give up easily.




Therefore, you can expect a fight when you're trying to reel them in so be prepared for this.



Most catfish are bottom feeders and they are attracted to bait that has a strong scent. This is because smell is the strongest sense that the catfish has and they use it to seek out food. By taking advantage of this and using baits with a strong smell, you can usually get better results. There are many different types of baits to use for catfish ranging from store bought to homemade recipes. Some of them work better than others but it will also depend on what type of water you're fishing in. For example, bait that works great when fishing in a lake might not get the same response in a pond.



Oklahoma Catfish Baits

The best way to choose the right bait for your fishing trip is by taking the time to experiment a little to see what actually works the best. Still, there are a few baits that seem to always get great results no matter where you are or when you're fishing. Five of these are listed below.



5 Oklahoma catfish baits:



Stink Baits - There is a wide variety of stink baits to choose from that do get some great results. If you would like to make your own you can go online and find many excellent but simple recipes for making stink baits.



Worms - It may seem like a simple bait to use, but you can never go wrong with worms. The catfish, like most all species, seem to love worms.



Chicken Livers - Chicken livers is one of the most popular baits used for catching catfish. It has the strong smell needed to get their attention and they seem to love it.



Shad - This is a very common bait that is often used when fishing for the mighty catfish. It works well and it's easy to use.



Dough Balls - There are several recipes for dough balls and these can also be found online. This is a cheap but excellent bait to use when Oklahoma catfish fishing.



These baits can all be used in different situations very effectively. Of course, you never know exactly how the catfish is going to respond at any given time. Therefore, it's always recommended that you take along a variety of different baits so you'll be ready for anything.



Where to Fish In Oklahoma

Knowing where some of the best places to go fishing in Oklahoma will help you get started on your next fishing adventure sooner. You won't have to waste time trying to figure out where to go. There are many different places to go fishing so you'll find catfish in most any area regardless of which part of Oklahoma you're in. Still, it's nice to know where some of the most well-known areas are.



Below you will find a list of a few of the places to go catfishing in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Catfishing Lakes and Reservoir:

Canton Lake

Fort Gibson Reservoir

Great Salt Plains Lake

Broken Bow Reservoir

Sardis Lake

Webber Falls Reservoir

Oologah Lake

Skiatook Reservoir

Waurika Lake

Kaw Lake

Keystone Lake

Lake Carl Blackwell

Lake Hudson

Lake Texoma

Robert S Kerr Reservoir

Hugo Lake

Lake Eufaula

Tenkiller Lake

Grand Lake

Lake Murray



The state record for the flathead was pulled out of El Reno Lake, the record for the blue catfish came out of Lake Texoma and the channel state record was caught in Taft Lake.



Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 8_5-oklahoma- catfish-baits. html for more information on catfish fishing in Oklahoma

Great Places to Catch South Carolina Catfish



Fishing in South Carolina is both exciting and relaxing at the same time. There are so many beautiful lakes and rivers in which you can enjoy some great catfish fishing while seeing nature at it's finest. This makes South Carolina one of the most popular places to live or visit if you love fishing.

Catfish are one strong and aggressive species that can put up a struggle you'll never forget. They have been known to snap lines and even break rods into but that is part of the attraction. It's the challenge that draws anglers and catfish together plus, they also taste great.

Many anglers in South Caroline seek out these fish and many visit from other areas to enjoy the great fishing opportunities that this state has to offer.

Catfish are nocturnal creatures that feed more aggressively during the night. Therefore, going fishing at night is the best time to catch these fish. The second best time to go out would be early morning and late evening. Still, you can go fishing anytime you like and often get bites when you present them with a tasty meal. They do tend to strike at anything that invades their space even if they're not hungry so, if you present the bait correctly, you can get them to bite.

With so many wonderful places to go fishing in South Carolina, it's hard to narrow down a list of great fishing areas but below are three great places to catch South Carolina catfish:

Santee Cooper - This is an excellent place to go catfish fishing. Fishing in the shallows is recommended in this body of water and the flathead and the blue cats are plentiful here making it a great place to go fishing if you're seeking out some of the larger species.

Lake Thurmond - Here you can find some very large flathead and the channel cats are abundant as well. It's an excellent place to go catfishing.

Lake Monticello - This is an excellent catfish fishing area that not many people know about. Here you can find all types of catfish such as the channel, blue catfish and bullheads. So it doesn't matter which type of catfish you prefer to catch, you have plenty of options.

These are three great places to fish for cats in South Carolina but since there are so many more to choose from, I thought adding a few more to the list was appropriate. So, below you will find a short list of a few lakes where you can also enjoy some great fishing adventures when in South Carolina:

Lake Greenwood
Lake Jocassee
Lake Wateree
Lake Russell
Lake Marion
Lake Hartwell
Lake Secession
Lake Moultrie
Lake Murray
Lake Keowee

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 8_three-great- places-to- catch-south- carolina- catfish.html for more information on catfish fishing in South Carolina.

fishing Tackle Tip: Tips for Catfishing in Texas




If you're a Texas angler looking for a challenge then you will be very interested in catfish fishing. Catfish are one of the more aggressive fish in the world and offer for a very nice experience when going fishing for them.

There are many different ways to catch catfish as well as many different types that you can catch. Catfish fishing is great not just for the advanced angler but the novice as well. You don't need years of experience to enjoy a catfish fishing trip.

There are many different places in the world that offer packages for catfish fishing trips that you can bring the whole family along on. For those who want to just relax with a few friends, there are plenty of opportunities to do that as well. Many lakes, streams, pools, creeks, and rivers offer catfish fishing and finding them is as easy as looking up spots online.

Finding a catfish fishing spot shouldn't be complicated or keep you from planning a trip. Here are some suggested fishing spots in North America:
Santee Cooper Lakes, SC
Lake Conroe, TX
Lake Norman, NC
Lake Oahe, SD

There are many other states and spots that have good catfish fishing but these are just some to get you started. If you're looking to get into catfish fishing, then you need to understand how catfish live, what they like to eat and techniques for catching them.

Catfish Habitats
In order to fully appreciate the catfish, you have to understand how it lives. These monstrous fish like to hide in logs, caves and any other structure that might provide them with some sort of concealment. This allows them to attack their unsuspecting prey and keeps other animals away from them. They like to feed on vegetation at the bottom of lakes, ponds and streams.

Catfish are extremely aggressive and versatile. These fish can live in just about any type of water. Actually catfish are some of the most adaptable fish that you'll find to fish for sport. All types of water are the home of this amazing species of fish. While catfish don't like the sun they can live in clear water streams. Mostly you'll find they like murky and dark areas of the water.

Catfish Baits
If you know what a catfish eats, that will help you to catch them. Certain factors will need to be taken into account when you go to choose a bait such as:
Size of fish
Type of fish
Natural food source
Location

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 8_five-tips- for-catfishing- in-texas. html for more information on Texas catfish.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Fishing Secrets: 5 Secrets for Pond Bass Fishing




With bass fishing growing in popularity as years go on, more and more anglers are looking for places to catch fish. There are many places in the world that you'll find bass such as rivers, lakes, creeks, streams, the ocean and ponds.

If you've been fishing one spot for year's maybe it's time you take a look at other fishing locations. It never hurts to get more experience in fishing by moving out of your comfort zone.

Actually if you want to improve your skills as an angler it's almost a must that you move on to locations and fish you're not familiar with. Most people are afraid of change and moving to a new area can be a bit intimidating.

The locations we're going to discuss in this article are ponds. These are some of the more interesting spots to go fishing in because they offer many different challenges.

Why Fish in Ponds?
Of all the places to go bass fishing why would you want to fish in a pond? There are many advantages to fishing in ponds and you'll find that it makes for an interesting day. Ponds can either be natural or man-made. Man-made ponds are usually stocked with bass and this makes catching them easier on the more novice angler.

In a stocked pond you will have more fish to choose from but that doesn't mean you're guaranteed to catch a fish. You will still need to have a basic understanding of the fish and how they live. You'll also want to make sure you have the proper bait and lines. This can all be made easier by simply observing your surroundings.

Natural ponds are a little more challenging since ponds, unlike most lakes, come and go with the weather. Most ponds are formed by too much rain water causing larger bodies of water to overflow and deposit into deeper areas.

When the rain settles the larger body of water recedes and leaves just the pond. At this point the pond can dry up rather easily if the weather begins to change.

Ponds normally form in areas that are owned by private groups or residents. This means that most ponds you'll find will have "No Trespassing" signs around them. If you want to fish in a pond you'll have to get proper permissions or permits. Don't walk onto someone else's property and just start fishing.

Lures for Pond Fishing
Once you find a pond you'd think is good for fishing you need to figure out what lures are going to work best. Topwater plugs and jigs will most likely be the best types of lures to use in a pond. Since ponds tend to have more obstructions than more open waters do, these lures will be great for finding bass.

Make sure to check and see what type of water you're fishing in. If it's more dark and murky you'll want to use a much different lure than if you were fishing in more clear waters.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 8_5-secrets- for-pond- bass-fishing. html for more information on pond bass fishing.

Fishing Tip: 3 Tips For Bass Fishing in the South




Are you looking to take a bass fishing trip down south? If you're looking to do some bass fishing in the south you need to prepare before you take off. Any fishing trip can be the one that brings in the biggest fish you've ever caught.

You can increase this chance with a few simple tips when planning your next trip. Bass fishing is a growing sport and anglers of all ages want a crack at catching the big one.

Whether you're just going on the trip with some friends to relax or you're taking it serious, you will need to be ready for anything. Bass fishing in the south can be unlike anything you've experienced before. Some of the most popular places in the south for bass fishing are Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and Texas. If you're looking for some challenging bass these states have plenty to offer.

Bass Fishing Locations

Deciding you want to do some bass fishing in the south is great only if you know where you want to go. There are many different spots, in many states, that offer great bass fishing. Some of the recommended fishing resorts in south include:
Lake Okeechobee, Florida
Lake Placid, Florida
Lake Istokpoga, Florida
Wheeler Lake, Alabama
Lay Lake, Alabama
Logan Martin Lake, Alabama
Lake Murray, South Carolina
Lake O' the Pines, Texas

These are some of the many different locations in the south that you'll find will be great bass fishing spots. Many of them, as you can tell, are located on lakes. This is because many lakes are stocked with bass for fishing purposes.

Having lakes to fish bass from also makes your options of a vacation that much more.

Fishing Trip Options

When you go to plan your fishing trip in the south you have many different options. If you choose one of the many different bass lakes you can make it a family vacation to remember. Since bass fishing is one that an angler of any age can do, this is perfect for the family looking to take a vacation in the south.

Most lakes have many different attractions that involve more than just fishing.

Most lake resorts have things like hiking, horse riding, water slides, skiing areas and other water crafts available. If you're looking to get the whole family involved this could be a great way to do it. You may have the option of renting a cabin, trailer, boat or boat house. These are great for families who want to spend time together but have the flexibility to do other things. Boats are a great way to get the family involved in bass fishing. Make sure that you take proper safety measures when doing so though.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 8_bass-fishing- in-the-south. html for more information on Bass Fishing.

Fishing Tackle Tip: Best Bait to Catch Largemouth Bass






Are you an Angler interested in catching largemouth bass? Do you know exactly what bait to use? If you're going to take bass fishing serious you need to get serious about the bait you're using. Read on and see if you have what it takes to catch some largemouth bass. There's a lot more to catching a nice bass than you think.

Knowing what to use when fishing for largemouth bass is only one of the things you're going to need to know. There are no specific baits that will guarantee you to catch bass every single time. Depending on where you are fishing and the type of bass will determine what works best when it comes to bait. Understanding bait and understanding the bass will greatly increase your chances of catching one of these amazing fish.

The Basics of Largemouth Bass
Bass fishing is one of the most popular in the sport today. Everyone from young children to elderly people take part in bass fishing. Being such large fish, it's no wonder that bass fishing is one of the most popular. While bass can be a challenge to catch, you don't need years of experience to hook one.

Understanding the fish will greatly increase this chance. Bass are part of the sunfish family and normally have a horizontal stripe running down the middle of them. They prefer to live in lakes or ponds but can also be found in some rivers and streams. You will find they like underwater foliage as well as structures they can hide in and around. They like to hide around structures so they can jump out at their unsuspecting prey.

They also prefer more shallow waters. Frogs, surface bugs, and other flying insects are just what get the bass going. These insects prefer the more shallow waters with more plant life and these spots are great for finding bass in. Clear or murky water will be the home of bass, so the right bait is important. Knowing what the bass of that area eat naturally will really help you to be better prepared.

Largemouth Bass Baits
Now that you know a little bit more about the largemouth bass it's time to get to what you're going to feed them. Finding the right bait is extremely important as this is what will cause the bass to either hook or not. In order to figure out what the best bait for your tackle is, you need to know the different types of bait. There are five basic types of baits you'll be looking at dealing with:
1. Live bait
2. Crankbait
3. Jigs
4. Topwater Plugs
5. Spinners

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 8_best-bait- to-catch- largemouth- bass.html for more information on Bass Fishing.

Bass Fishing Tackle Tip: What is the Best Bass Fishing Lure?

There have been debates raging amongst bass fishing enthusiasts for all sorts of things in recent years, from the best way to fish in winter to what features are needed on a bass fishing boat. This is largely because the Internet has given all bass fishing enthusiasts with an opinion a forum to head to in order to air their views. Although some people may disagree on the topics above, the main bone of contention is and always has been the best bass fishing lure.


The fascination with finding the best bass fishing lure and the presence of so many different points of view is a result of the fact that people have personal preferences. Some people can only get on with certain lures and find it impossible to get on with others. Others tend to use certain lures at specific times of the year or in specific waters.

However, the best lures should be a part of everyone's bass fishing tackle. They all have their uses and can be employed to great effect. Furthermore, if you want to turn your catch rate around then you may well want to try switching them around.

So what are the best bass fishing lures around? Read on to find out!

The Spinnerbait - Spinnerbaits are firm favourites amongst bass fishing enthusiasts because they can be used in any waters, throughout the year and for any type of bass. They come in a variety of shapes are sizes and are versatile, which is why many bass fishing enthusiasts absolutely love them. Furthermore, they are perfect for use in top waters or mid depth waters. As such, you cannot go wrong.

The Crankbait - This is literally a lure that looks exactly like a fish. As such, they attract the bass like there is no tomorrow because they tend to move like fish would too. They come in a vast range of colours, shapes, sizes and materials so you can literally tailor them to suit your needs at the time, whether that is fishing in vegetation or in clear waters. Crankbaits usually have a huge level of success when used in top waters but can also be used a little deeper or when trolling for bass in a boat.

The Plastic Worm - This is another firm favourite amongst bass fishing enthusiasts. It is the best known and the most used because it is incredibly versatile. You can literally use a plastic worm in any waters, at any depth and regardless of the state of the waters. In fact, it is perhaps the best lure to use in vegetation. Some bass fishing enthusiasts swear by these so it is important to try them if you have not already. You will definitely like them.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 7_what-is- the-best- bass-fishing- lure.html for more information on bass fishing lures.

Fishing Tackle Tip: Three Secrets for Fishing Smallmouth Bass in Canada

Canada has some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world. You can find largemouth bass around Canada but they're not nearly as abundant as the smallmouth. These bass can be found all around the coast and this is a great place to go fishing. Canada also has many different streams, creeks, rivers and lakes that are also great spots for bass fishing.

If you're planning on taking a fishing trip in Canada you will need some secrets to having a successful trip. These secrets for fishing smallmouth bass in Canada can really help you have a more fulfilling experience when you take your trip.

Bass fishing in Canada is highly sought after by anglers from all over the world. People will flock to fishing spots to get a chance at taking on these amazing fish.

Locating a Smallmouth Bass Fishing Spot

If you're not from Canada than you may have a hard time finding a place to go fishing. Talking to locals could be an option but most might be unwilling to give up their secret fishing spots. You can always turn to the Canadian Department of Fish and Game. They have maps, routes and spots to get good smallmouth bass. If you want a particular spot such as a river or lake than make sure they know that's what you're looking for.

Determine what type of water you want to fish in. Coastal fishing is going to be much different than river fishing. Canada also has many spots that are covered in ice for most of the year. Finding out what spots are specific to ice fishing and which aren't will keep you from taking a trip out and not being able to fish. Having the right equipment and spot is vital to a good fishing trip in Canada.

Seasonal Fishing in Canada

Canada's smallmouth bass fishing is best done between the months of March and June. These are prime time for fishing smallmouth bass in Canada. While many people flock to Canada during these months to do fishing doesn't mean you won't be able to find a good fishing spot. It actually means you'll have an easier time finding one. There are enough bass to go around during this time of the season as well.

Since bass are aggressive by nature this makes fishing them during this time of the year optimal. Even if you try certain bait one day that doesn't work doesn't mean it won't work another day. Bass can get into moods just like people. Some days that don't feel like biting on specific bait, while other days they can't get enough of it. Keeping in mind natural habitats of bass will also make things a lot easier for you.


Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassf ishing.com/ editorials/ 8_smallmouth- bass-in-canada. html for more information on Bass Fishing.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Catfish Equipment For A Great Catch


Your choice in gear is very important when you go catfish fishing. Have you ever caught a big cat only to lose it because the rod or the line snapped into? If so, you know how disappointing this can be. Perhaps your hook came lose or some other simple problem kept you from reeling in that big one. Well, you don't have to worry about this ever happening again, if you have the right catfish equipment for a great catch. Your gear does make a difference.

You don't need complicated gear, you just need to make sure it's durable and that you're prepared for the battle ahead. If you know anything at all about the mighty catfish, you know they can be very aggressive. They will fight till the end and if you and your equipment are not up to the struggle, you're going to end losing the catch. Of course, it's the fight they put up that attracts so many anglers to the catfish. It makes fishing more exciting and fun. They always provide anglers with some great stories to tell.

When you're choosing your rods, reels, fishing line and tackle you need to take into consideration where you'll be fishing. For example, if you're fishing in saltwater water, then you need gear that is designed for this type of environment. You also need to decide which species of catfish you will be seeking out the most. This will help you to choose the best gear based on the type of catfish you'll be reeling in the most.

Some species of cats grow to some incredible sizes such as the blue cats while the channel cats aren't as big. When seeking out the larger sizes you need to have the heavier equipment. The water conditions and specific area where you plan to go fishing will also determine the type of equipment you need. Below is some information about the different types of catfish equipment that will help you make a good decision on your next purchase.

Catfish Tackle
When it comes to tackle, your choice could mean the difference between being successful and going home empty handed. Start by getting a nice size tackle box. Buy one that is larger than you think you would need so that you will still have room to add more to it later. Now, you need to organize your tackle according to size and function. Being organized is vital to your success and it can save you lots of time. You can spend more time actually fishing instead of fumbling around searching for things.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 7_catfish- equipment- for-a-great- catch.html for more information on catfish fishing equipment.

Tips For Skinning Catfish


The catfish is one of the most unique species of fish sought after today. They can grow very big and they will always give you a fight to remember. They got their name from the prominent barbells that look much like the whiskers of a cat. However, not all of the catfish species have these whiskers. There are several different types of catfish with the most well-known ones being the flathead, white catfish, blue cats and the channel cats.

The catfish is a bottom feeder and can be caught with most any type of bait.
This is because they literally strike at anything that invades their territory.

One reason they are so popular is because of their great taste. The catfish is well-known for being one of the best tasting fish caught today. There is just one problem with eating the catfish that you catch. Skinning them is difficult for many people because they have very tough skin.

Skinning a Catfish Tips
If you have the right tools and a good idea of how the process should go, it will make skinning a catfish much easier. It never huts to have a few tips to help make the process go faster and smoother. The information below should help you get off to a good start.

3 tips for skinning catfish:

One of the first things that you need to do is make sure the catfish is dead. Sometimes they may appear to be dead until you start the process and then you'll discover they were not. Therefore, don't take this tip lightly. Even though it seems obvious, it is very important. Most anglers simply use a hammer and bash the fish on the head between the eyes to make sure they're dead.

Have all of your tools and everything ready before you begin. You will need a long flat board, hammer, long nail, pliers, filet gloves and a sharp knife. Never try to skin a cat with a dull knife, this is just asking for trouble. It will make the process harder and it's a good chance that you could get seriously cut in the process.
Clean as you go. Have a bucket handy to put all the waste in so they can be disposed of properly. Cleaning as you go makes skinning a catfish faster and easier so you'll be ready to cook your meal much faster.

These tips can make the process go faster and smoother for anyone, even if you don't have any experience skinning a catfish. They are a little different from other species but as long as you know what to do, it doesn't have to be difficult.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 7_3-tips- for-skinning- catfish.html for more information on skinning a catfish.

"Tackle Tip" Catfish Supplies You Must Have


Before you can go catfishing you need to collect a variety of fishing supplies and have all of them in order. However, you don't want to simply buy up a bunch of supplies without thinking about it carefully first or you'll most likely end up with a bunch of things that you don't even need.

Then when you get out on the water you'll discover that you don't have the things you do need. For this reason, it's always a good idea to plan out what you need to buy before you go shopping for fishing supplies.

The first thing that you need to do is decide where you'll be fishing. Will it be in saltwater, freshwater or a little of both. This is very important because there is a big difference in the supplies used for freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you plan to do both, then you need a way to keep the supplies separated and organized to make things easier when you're out on the water. You also need to determine which type of freshwater you'll be fishing in the most.

For example, will it be in lakes, rivers or ponds? These have different types of environment that will make a difference in the type of supplies you need.

Catfish Supplies
If you're ever been catfish fishing without the proper gear, then you know how difficult it can be trying to catch and reel in cats when you're unprepared. It can greatly limit your options and you may end up losing a good catch because you didn't have the right supplies. To help you avoid this type of situation, below are some of the catfish supplies that you should have with you on all of your fishing trips.

Before choosing your supplies you will need to decide which type of catfish you'll be seeking out the most and consider the water conditions in your area. Still, there are certain items that all fishermen need and they are listed below.

List of catfish supplies you must have:

Catfish Fishing Rod - A good quality heavy duty catfish fishing rod is a must. The reason you need a fishing rod designed for catfishing is because they are made to withstand the struggle this species will surely provide. Normally, a moderate to fast action rod with some flexibility is the best choice.

Reels - The reels that you use will need to be matched up with the rod you plan to use and they need to be of good quality and be a heavy duty reel to handle the catfish.

Fishing Line - It's important that you match your fishing line with the type of rod and reel that you choose. You may need to experiment a little to find the best match. Always carry extra with you on every fishing trip.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 7_catfish- supplies- you-must- have.html for more information on catfish fishing gear.

5 Unique Catfishing Secrets


The catfish is a unique species that is sought out by many anglers. They live most everywhere and can be found in rivers, lakes and even ponds. They grow to a variety of sizes and some of them can be extremely large. This is one of the reasons they are so popular. Anglers go after them for their size plus, they also taste great.

When you go catfish fishing, it's a good idea to take along a few extra items that you wouldn't need when fishing for many of the other fish species. For example, a good thick pair of gloves always comes in handy along with a pair of pliers. These are used to get the hook out of the cat's mouth without getting stick by its fins.

If you are fairly new at catfish fishing, then there are a few things that can help make your fishing trips more productive. They may seem obvious to the experienced angler but these are things that could take a new fisherman time to learn. To save you some time and help you reel in those cats faster, below are a few secrets that can be very useful.

5 catfishing secrets:

Catfish are bottom feeders. What this means is that you need to use techniques that allow you to get the bait down on the bottom where they're located in order to get their attention. They wait for food to come to them and then they strike. However, the catfish is not very picky about what it eats so most any type of bait will work as long as you get it where they can see it.

When it comes to baits and catfish, stink baits will always get their attention. This is because the catfish has a keen sense of smell and they are attracted to most anything that has an odor. Other great baits include worms, minnows, shrimp and shad. Always take along extra tackle when you go catfish fishing because you will most likely lose your gear at some point. It's even a good idea to have an extra rod and reel.

You can use most any type of equipment to reel in catfish. The most important thing is that your rod and reel is strong enough to handle the weight of the cat. A heavy duty rod and reel is recommended matched with the lightest sinkers you can use. Make sure your hooks are sharp and that you have a variety with you in case you need to try different sizes or end up losing a few.

Presentation is everything when you go catfish fishing. Whatever type of bait you use needs to be presented to the cat in a natural way or they will ignore it. If something appears to be moving too fast or in an odd direction, you won't get any bites. Be sure and practice getting the moves just right and you'll see a difference in all of your fishing trips.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfi shfishing. com/editorials/ 7_5-catfishing- secrets.html

Techniques For Catching Bait Fish


Bait fish come in handy for the fishermen in a variety of ways. No matter what kind of fish you are fishing for, you can typically bet that bait fish will make a fantastic lure. The problem for many fishermen lies in getting the right bait fish when and where you need them. While it is possible to go to a local bait and tackle shop and buy your own bait fish, some fishermen just want to be able to do it on their own.

Buying live bait can be really expensive and even buying dead bait can cost a lot. Don't waste your money when you can get bait fish on your own. You just need to learn the proper techniques for catching it. Getting bait fish does not have to be a difficult chore for you.

If you fish on a regular basis, you've probably already heard about how live bait is the best way to get fish on your boat. Boats even come equipped with fancy tools to help keep the live bait while you're fishing on the waters. You have all the right stuff to catch that trophy prize fish but first, you need to get that live bait. You're not alone if you get frustrated at this stage in the game. The good news is, you're not alone. Many anglers before you have felt the same way and many more will come along and think the same thing.

The good news is there is help available for you. The first step is to simplify the process and really think for a minute about what live bait is. Basically bait is anything alive or dead that can attract the hungry fish to your line. When you hide a hook in it and get the fish to take a bite, you've hooked that fish and can reel 'em in.

Live bait, as the name implies is bait that's still alive. It could be anything from insects and worms to other fish. When talking in terms of bait fish, you're referring to other fish, smaller than the ones you're trying to catch, that can be used to attract and reel in the fish you're after.

If you're trying to target a particular fish or type of fish, the type of live bait you use might make a difference. For example, certain types of fish are attracted to or prefer to eat certain other types of smaller fish. When you can catch these smaller fish as your live bait fish, you have a higher chance of getting the other fish you want.

Here are 5 techniques for catching bait fish:

Use a throw net- If you've never used a net before, don't worry. The process is very easy and you can learn to net fish for live bait pretty easily. Purchase the right sized net for your skill level. Follow the instructions on how to use the net. Do some practice throws before going out on the waters.

Throw back undersized games fish. Keep everything you can use in a bucket of water until time to fish with it.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltw aterfishing. com/editorials/ 7_5-techniques- for-catching- bait-fish. html for more information on catching bait fish.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Fishing Tackle Tip; Pick the Right Saltwater Fishing Rod


Saltwater fishing is a popular sport enjoyed by all types of anglers. Men, women and children of all ages love to spend their spare time casting out those lines and reeling in the fish. If you want to enjoy a fun and exciting saltwater fishing trip, then you need to have the right saltwater fishing rod.

The rod is a very important part of your fishing gear. It not only holds the reel and makes controlling the fishing line possible but it extends the reach of the angler. This allows you to reach many areas where the fish are located without disturbing the school and scaring the fish away. The rod provides leverage that allows you to work with the fish and reel him in more easily. It also absorbs the pressure when the fish strikes the line, which helps you to recognize when you're getting a bite.

With so many different sizes and styles of fishing rods available today, how do you know which fishing rod is the right one? The answer to this question is not a simple one because it all depends on which species of fish you're going after and the size of fish you would like to catch. In order to be successful, you need a rod that is well-matched to both of these.

It would be difficult to catch a small species of fish on heavy tackle. They will ignore the offering and search for something that is more suited to their size range. On the other hand, it would be difficult reeling in a large fish on light tackle. If by some chance the fish did take your bait, the odds of the equipment breaking causing you to lose the catch is very high. It's for these reasons that your first step is to determine which species you would like to go fishing for, then you can select your saltwater fishing rod based on this information.

Basic Information about Saltwater Fishing Rods

If you haven't been fishing for very long and you're not sure which species of fish you want to seek out, then there are a few basic rules that you can follow.

These will help you select a good starter fishing rod that can be used in many situations.
There are many different size rods but when saltwater fishing your best option would be to go with ones that are at least ten feet long or longer. This gives you better control and makes it easier to reel in the fish once they are hooked.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltw aterfishing. com/editorials/ 5_pick-the- right-saltwater- fishing-rod. html for more information on saltwater fishing rods.