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There is a little lake in Michigan called Grass Lake and it is named correctly. Lily pads and tall grass cover the lake of about 900 acres. It's a great little lake to fish and the chance to catch a pike or two. No fancy ramps or docks just a gravel road to access a dirt ramp.

The first time I fished the lake a friend of mine landed a largemouth on the first cast. He was using a popper in the open areas of the lily pads. This works great if you catch a fish in the open areas, but you cannot reel your line back in without getting snagged on the lily pads. I chose to use a weed less frog; it took me a couple more cast but I landed several bass this way and a 28 inch pike. We had a lot of fun using weed less frogs and plastic worms. but we started trying other tackle; you know if you are carrying a lot of fishing gear you have to see what works in other areas of the lake. Cover is everywhere but you can move around the lake with ease over depths of 4 to 12 feet. And to make it even better, there are plenty of little patches of grass or lily pads in every directions in different depths of water. Staying away from these patches and casting on the edges with tubes; we landed a lot of 12 and 14 inch bass. Then we tried top water with poppers and walk the dog with stick baits. We had luck with both; but testing the different retrieves to improve our catch ratio was the key. With either lure the trick was to move it about 3 feet then let it sit for 15 seconds them move again.

If you have never tried top water give it a try; you will love to see a bass come out of the water striking your lure. One thing to remember when using top water is don't set the hook until you feel the tug on your line. This is not as easy as it sounds because you will see the strike and want to pull, but wait for that tug or you will miss more than you catch. Have a great time; its only fishing so don't take it to serious and enjoy the outdoors.

M. Kilby along with his father are avid fishermen offering quality Fishing Tackle from Blue Lake Tackle, LTD

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According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service report, there are 44 million Americans over the age of six go fishing. That’s one out of five that buy bait, lures, fishing hooks, spinners, and flies. Almost twice as many people fish, as play golf.

The average fisherman is between 42 and 46 years old. Anglers are of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Seventy percent are married, about a third are women. Perhaps most tellingly, the typical angler has a larger annual income than the average US citizen.

Which means that anglers spend a lot of money on fishing gear. Official sources confirm that in the last year, they spent $20 billion on boats, trucks, licenses, and other fishing-related products and services; nearly $15 billion on fishing trips, and over $5 billion on equipment. Californians lead spending on retail sales of freshwater fishing equipment, at just under $1.5 billion, while Floridians lead retail sales of saltwater fishing equipment, at almost $3 billion.

The industry monitors sales of all fishing tackle, rods, reels, and combos, fishing line, lures, accessories and marine equipment. All sectors report healthy year-to-date sales when compared to the same month last year. "Rods, Reels and Combos” are the only industry sub-sector that shows a decline in monthly sales compared to the same month last year. In addition to following sales data, the industry also tracks other indicators that correlate with sales. The amount of rainfall is a top indicator of fishing activity, and the sale of fishing licenses is an indicator of overall fishing participation trends.

The association doesn’t just monitor anglers’ economic activities; it actively promotes them as well. Leading industry trade events include ICAST, the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades, which will next meet in July 2007 in Las Vegas. ASA also sponsors an annual Sport fishing Summit that will next meet in October 2006 in San Diego. Finally, ASA sponsors National Fishing & Boating Week every June.

For more articles by this author as well as other fishing and outdoor information visit the fishing recource center at http://www.NassauFishing.org. Visit the outdoor and sporting directory to find more quality fishing, camping and outdoor sites and resources.

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Many anglers like to catch Smallmouth Bass, which are a very hearty fish that can be found in a variety of different settings. Smallmouth can be found in all kinds of lakes and ponds as well as rivers and streams of all kinds. Water temperature doesn't affect the Smallmouth Bass like it does other fish so these fish can therefore be found in almost every state in the Union. For this article I'm going to focus on Smallmouth Bass fishing in moving water, such as rivers and streams.

In case you didn't realize it, Smallmouth bass can be caught in much the same manner that trout can be caught. As a matter of fact, the two species can be found in the same rivers in many instances. One of my favorite activities is to wade fish for smallmouth bass using ultra light fishing gear. Ultra light fishing gear meaning and ultra light rod and reel equipped with four pound test fishing line. When you hook into a 3 pound smallmouth and that fish has the current to use to its advantage with gear like this, let me tell you something…it's as much fun as you can have with your clothes on!

So, what's the bet way to catch Smallmouth Bass in river situations? All of the normal techniques such as throwing spoons and spinners will work, as well as using minnow plugs such as rapalas. But the most effective technique that I've ever come across is using live bait rigged on a set of gang hooks. What are gang hooks? Gang hooks are simply a pair of small hooks tied in tandem.

Rigging a live worm is the most popular technique, and can be deadly for smallmouth bass when fished properly. To rig a live worm on a set of gang hooks is really quite simple. You simply take your line and tie a small barrel swivel onto it. Then tie the set of pre-tied gang hooks to the other end of the swivel. Now add split shot sinkers to the line "above" the barrel swivel as needed. Rig the worm onto the gang hooks and you're good to go. The goal is to have the live worm bounce off the bottom as it tumbles naturally downstream. If you use this simple rig where Smallmouth Bass are present, watch out!

Smallmouth Bass are universally known as one of the hardest fighting fish, pound for pound, that swims in freshwater. If you have any experience with these fish, you know this to be true. Catching Smallmouth Bass in moving water is a ton of fun, and as I said, when these fish are coupled with gang hooks and ultra light gear, it's easily as much fun as can be found while clothed. Get out there and give it a try, you'll sure be glad you did.

Trevor Kugler is co-founder of http://www.JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country…..Montana!

Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish!!!: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

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Fishing tackle is also known as fishing gear, it is a common term that refers to the paraphernalia utilized by anglers while fishing. Approximately any equipment or gear used for catching fish can be called fishing tackle. Some examples are lures, bait, lines, rods, reels, nets and trawls, downriggers, outriggers, gaffs, harpoons, clevises, floats and traps. A device that is connected to the end of a fishing line, such as hooks, leaders, swivels, sinkers and snaps, is known as terminal tackle.

Bass fishing has average tackle of about 9ft to 10ft fishing rod which would perfectly match a salt resistant Arbor reel if fishing for sea bass. This provides a good balance and strength to the fishing rod. When you go out fishing for bass, you require a lot of line in your reel as a Bass may possibly go off to a distance of about hundred meters from where you are situated after getting hooked.

There are plenty of obtainable alternatives when purchasing line for bass fishing trips. One thing that you should remember is that, you must make sure the line for its knot-making capacity before acquiring any of it. Simultaneously, you must also make certain that the line is flexible enough to react to the fish's slightest tugs or bite. A good purchase would be a braided fishing line, which guarantees your line will not ***** in the middle of a good fight. Braided lines are more durable than other types.

A bass fisherman should be aware about the importance of great bass fishing gear. The gear you use could have a big effect on how successful your bass fishing journey goes. A bass angler should know what type of gear to bring and how to use it. No fishing expedition is absolute without taking along the right equipment to catch fish. There are some tips and guidelines on bass fishing gear to assist you in preparing for your next fishing challenge as mentioned later.

You might need additional gear depending on the category of fishing you are doing and when and where you are fishing. Each fisherman improves his own technique over time and this will settle on the amount and types of bass fishing equipment that you obtain in addition. Considering the significance of dressing properly when going out fishing is very important. The clothing you wear is truly essential as the rest of your bass fishing gear is. Many devoted bass fishermen have fishing vests and fishing hats which they can attach lures to, as well as gear to help battle the elements and as well as being practical utilizing pockets other pieces of equipment.

Of all the kinds of bass fishing gear available, the most essential items for success would be the choice of baits and lures the angler uses. As for baits and lures for bass, there are literally thousands to choose from. All of these normally fall into one of six vital categories which includes, crank baits; spinner baits; top waters; jigs; plastics; live bait. From these, you can select which will function properly in accordance to your requirements at the time, the kind of fish you are fishing for, the setting of the waters and your personal preference.

The majority of bass fishermen obtain a mixture of various types of lures and baits in any fishing activity so they always have what they need at hand. When a bait or lure is not working after you try using it in different ways then you may use the other types which are available. The kind of bait or lure that you may utilize depends on various conditions; for instance the weather, the types of waters you are fishing in, the extent and variety of the bass, the vicinity of the water and more.

You can share photos, fishing experiences and tips at the worlds only Guild devoted to all aspects of fishing at the Fishing Guild which also boasts a huge variety of fishing equipment such as Bass Fishing Gear.

James Allen posts:


For folks just getting into the relaxing and enjoyable sport of fly fishing, assembling the proper gear can be one of the first exciting challenges to deal with. Depending on the type and size of fish you are going after and the waters you will be fishing, you will have to first select from many options for the various parts of your "kit". One of the core elements of your fly fishing setup will be your line though, so it is a good place to start. Let's take a look at your different line options and learn to match them with your needs.

Sinkers Or Floaters?

If you're just starting out, it's best to go with a full floating line. This type is commonly used for fishing the smaller sized still waters and river trout fishing. You can save the sinking lines until your skill level is at a point where you're willing to try larger bodies of water. With a sinking line, you'll be able to fish a variety of depths. Also, because they are thinner than floating lines, sinkers are also good if you have to fish in very windy conditions, as they cut through the air quite well.

Match The Climate

You'll also have to base your decision on the overall climate of the region and waters you'll be fishing. This is because you can also choose between cold weather and warm weather options for your lines. Make certain, especially if you are fishing in extreme climates, to choose the correct one or you'll find the line does not respond the way you'll need it to.

Line Weight

Once you've figured out the above, you can then move on to one of the easier parts of the process - choosing the correct line weight. Line weights are standardized throughout the fly fishing equipment industry, so once you've figured out which weight - often abbreviated "wt" - works in certain situations, you can be confident that the results will be nearly the same across all the major brands.

If you're into pan fishing and you're going after smaller fish in small, easy waters such as narrow brooks or streams, starting with the lighter weights is a good way to go. We're talking here about lines less than four-weight. As you move on to larger and darker waters though and start chasing after a larger catch your line weight should increase too. For example, the five to seven weight lines might be to your liking if you're after bass or larger trout and you'll want to go even higher once you start chasing down lunkers like muskie.

As you can see, choosing the right line depends on many factors. If you see yourself facing a variety of different waters and fish on your next fly fishing adventure, it would probably be best to bring an assortment of lines along. Along with the information here, you should be able to find an initial match to use and then further refine your choices as you gain more experience.



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Keith Londrie posts:


Spring is here. You head out early in the morning, your fishing gear packed into the back of your SUV. You're looking forward to a day on the lakeshore and are hoping to catch a pickerel or perch.

When you arrive, you pack your gear to the rocky shore and decide, for the fun of it, to use a nightcrawler for bait. You slide it onto your hook and cast. The bait sinks below the surface. Bang! A fish strikes. It is a good sized catch and a fighter. You can see it flipping and thrashing in the cool water, trying to free itself of the hook. You play the fish until it tires, bring it into shore and scoop it into your net. Much to your surprise, you've landed a northern pike.

Lake fishing is any type of fishing that is done on a lake. It can be shore fishing from a pier or marina or from a rocky shoreline. It can also be boat fishing, trolling or fly fishing. There are a wide variety of fish species found in lakes around the world. Lake species include bass, trout, catfish, perch, pickerel, northern pike, muskellunge, sturgeon, walleye and salmon.

If you plan to fish from a boat, you will need to own one, rent one, or go lake fishing with someone who has one. To fish from a boat, you will need a rod, reel, tackle, trolling equipment and a lake or fish map. If you are a beginner, use a basic lake fishing kit. This includes a six to eight foot graphite or fiberglass rod with a basic closed or open faced reel. Fishing line should be 8 to 15 pound-test, depending on the fish species you are targeting and the depth. Fishing near the surface requires 8 pound-test, while fishing the middle or bottom requires 15 pound test. The larger the fish species, the higher pound-test line you will need.

You will also need a variety of different sized hooks, ranging from medium to large. Split shot sinkers are best. If you are planning on fishing the bottom, larger weights will be necessary. Remember, when buying sinkers, be sure they are lead free in order to protect the environment. Floats can vary from cork to plastic to foam. Torpedo floats work great as well. Floats of various sizes can be used, but remember, smaller is always better. You don't want the fish to see your float.

A variety of bait, both live and artificial is used for different species of lake fish.

Trout

Live bait for trout includes worms, insects, insect larvae and crayfish. Artificial bait includes streamers, spoons, spinners and dry and wet flies.

Bass

Live bait includes worms, shad, insects, insect larvae, frogs, crayfish and minnows. Artificial bait includes spinners, streamers, Mepps, spoons, jigs, crankbaits and clousers.

Walleye

Live bait includes nightcrawlers, crayfish, minnows, chubs and leaches. Artificial trolling bait that is best is jointed minnows and spinner rigs.

Salmon

Live bait includes worms, prawns, crustaceans, insects and insect larvae. Artificial bait includes lures, flies, plugs, streamers and spinners. Prepared bait such as egg sacs and scents also work well.

Catfish

Catfish in a lake are usually channel cat. They are attracted to cut bait, worms, crayfish or peeled crayfish tails, mollusks, minnows, cheeseballs, breadballs, shrimp, chicken entrails and liver.

Pickerel

Pickerel feed on aquatic insects and invertebrates. Use nightcrawlers, minnows, crayfish, insects and frogs. Artificial bait includes worms, spinners, spoons, streamers and Mepps.

Perch

Perch feed on minnows, insects, insect larvae, crayfish, snails, nightcrawlers, grubs and maggots. Artificial bait includes worms, lures, spinners, streamers and jigs. Use small lures when fishing for perch, as they have small mouths.

Northern Pike

Pike are predators. They will take nightcrawlers, minnows and smelt. Pike, especially females heavy with eggs, prefer dead bait because it provides an easy meal. Artificial bait includes wobbling spoons, spinners, split minnows and red and white spoons. If you are removing a hook from a northern pike, use needle nose pliers to avoid injury.

Muskellunge

Live bait for Musky includes live fish bait that is 10 to 12 inches. Suckers work well, as do leeches, frogs, insects and sunfish. Artificial bait includes spoons, bucktails and large plugs. Muskies are fighters and will strip reels, break rods, mutilate bait and bend hooks.

Sturgeon

Sturgeon like fresh bait and are bottom feeders. They are attracted to clams, eel, crayfish, smelt, salmon eggs, shad, nightcrawlers and fish heads.

Lake Trolling

Trolling is the use of either large or artificial bait pulled through the water behind a moving boat. It is used on lakes, especially for trout and walleye. The boat can be powered by a motor or oars. The bait can be trolled at any depth and is intended to resemble live fish. Trolled plugs, spoons and flies can be fished deep by adding weights or using leadcore line. Live bait is fished below a sliding float when trolling.

If you wish to take up lake fishing and have concerns over equipment or bait that you should use, ask an experienced lake angler to give you some tips, or invite them to come along on a lake fishing trip. Any experienced lake angler will be able to help you with equipment, bait, casting and trolling issues. This could be a family member, friend, neighbor or a staff member at a bait and tackle shop that specializes in lake fishing.



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