Lakes in certain parts of the country contain more than something you want in your livewell. Alligators. They can be no more obvious than a rock or a log, so be careful. You want to get a bite, not get bit.

Let me share one of my bass fishing experiences with you.

This is bayou country. When I go to the lakes south of Houston, I have to watch for gators. So I’m always keeping an eyeball peeled for ‘em. But sometimes …

So last night I look and everything is clear so I walk down to the water and start bass fishing. After a few minutes, while I’m looking around I see this big log. This big log that gets oddly thinner at the end up on the shore and thicker in the water, and has odd bumps on it. Hold on .. that doesn’t look right. I look further up the log to see how far it extends into the water and…

It has 2 big ol’ eyes … lookin’ at me!! And it’s only 10 feet away (just a quick couple of steps for a gator). Ooookay!

I slowly and calmly reel in my line (on the outside - on the inside, I’m in total panic) pick up my gear and move on.

So I go over to this other part of the lake, and now it’s dark so I get up on a pier. I’m sitting in the woods in the dark and I hear something walking down the pier towards me. Not heavy enough to be human footsteps. With what little bit of starlight there is, I can see something about the size of a medium dog coming at me. What do I do now?

Well, I can’t see what it is, but I can tell it’s not a dog. So I get aggressive towards it to see if I can scare it away. Fortunately, it worked. I pointed the tip of my fishing pole towards it and it scampered away.

As it left I thought it looked like a large raccoon. Probably nothing to worry much about after all, but they can be aggressive and rabid. But it’s creepy in the woods in the complete dark not being sure what’s around you.

Then, in the water, I see the outline of this huge catfish swim right up underneath me below the pier I’m on. Wow! That’s a big one! I’ve got to move bait up and fish under the pier and catch him!

So, I decide to put a light on it and see if I can get a better look at this monster. I aim the spotlight straight down into the water and…

Hey, look at that weed … there were no weeds along this pier earlier. Hmmm. So I lean further over the pier to get a better look at this mystery weed …. YIKES!

THAT’S NO WEED - IT’S A CLAW - A BIG CLAW!

There is a gator right underneath me!!

Apparently (and I was able to confirm this on follow up visits) the gator is savvy to the fact that people catch fish and put them on stringers around the dock; making a great free and easy meal for the gator.

That’s enough. I’m goin’ home. Forget all about that macho stuff and learn how to play guitar.

Michael Russell
MgrCentral.com
Established 2001
Home Business Training and Information Guides

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

First of all, we need to look at the word … recreation. When I break it down, it comes out re-creation.

What this means to me is a re-creating of myself; a way to get away from it all and do some soul searching and some thinking and … re-create my ideas, inspirations and motivations; a break in the pattern that allows me to reconsider things in my life and make adjustments.

But the term is large. Typically, recreation means activity. What do you do for recreation? Watch TV? Garden? Go out to restaurants or bars? What?

It implies relaxation. It implies a way to get away from the normal grind and have an element of divergence; have some fun and forget it all.

Not so for the bass fisherman.

I know I have mentioned to people that I went fishing and they said, “Oh, that sounds relaxing.”

What is relaxing about bass fishing? Probably nothing.

There are times I go to be outdoors, and there are times I go to catch bass. Catching bass is not relaxing. In fact, bass fishing is hard work.

If you want to throw in a live bait and hang by the shade tree, so be it. Granted, that is fishing … but not the style of bass fishing I’m talking about.

What I am talking about is active bass fishing where you are in hot pursuit of the prey. Walking the banks … fishing from the boat … whatever your style may be, it is hard work.

Why hard work? Every time I come home from a fishing trip I am worn out for a few days. That’s because I work hard while at play. I am up and down the banks hiking around the lake looking for my target: largemouth bass. I cast and I cast and I cast; always keeping the bait in motion and trying to find the fish.

So, do I go to get away from it all? Or, do I go because I love the thrill of the hunt; the catch.

If you think that serious bass fishing is a ‘vacation,” it’s not. Again, it’s hard work.

Even if you’re not hiking up and down the banks, even if you are in a boat, it’s hard work. You are constantly casting, reeling and landing fish (hopefully). This will wear you out if you only fish occasionally.

So, to me, bass fishing must be an obsession. I mean, certainly, I don’t do it to get occasionally, though it is that. And I don’t do it to forget the world and all it’s cares, though it does help with that. And I don’t do it because I am looking for a way to relax, though I do find it to be relaxing as well as tiring.

What’s in it for me?

I must do it. I am obsessed, maybe better described as addicted to the adrenaline charge I get when I catch a bass. I need the satisfaction of feeling powerful because I have fooled the fish in it’s own domain and I am now the king. I have to have that.

By the way, I will have to write more later, because now I must recreate. Maybe I will see you there.

Michael Russell
MgrCentral.com
Established 2001
Home Business Training and Information Guides

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

As the landscape of the World Wide Web changes at lightning speed, so do many online trends. Communication and the exchange of information have become instantaneous and the rate at which we can find and receive information is incredible. A recent trend that has caught on with online anglers “fishing” for more information is online fishing forums.

There are many websites that offer online fishing forums where anglers can talk and
discuss in an organized environment about the topics that appeal to them most. In
general, online fishing forums have a main posting board where anglers can talk
about general fishing subjects. Then usually there are more specific subjects sub-
topics where specific popular topics can be addressed.

Online fishing photo galleries have become probably one of the most popular topics
on online fishing forums. Now anglers can share a photo of their catch with
thousands of other anglers and it has become a virtual bragging board.

However, the really useful part is that you can see who’s catching what species,
when and where. Before the Internet, finding out that type of information was nearly
impossible. You either had to be physically at the particular location and happen to
know the person or you would have to wait to get to the location to see how the bite
was.

With online fishing forums, you can have an immediate fishing forecast including
the current bite, weather conditions and a sample of what anglers are currently
catching. Also, other benefits are the local tips and information exchanged between
anglers about particular locations or tackle used. It is like a gigantic online tackle
box waiting to be discovered.

There are many great online fishing forums, just browse the internet and you will be
sure to come upon one. Then you too, will be able to join in the fun and talk about
your latest catch.

Author Troy Denson is http://www.BoldWater.com online Fishing Forum administrator. You
can talk online to other anglers about fishing, tips, fishing tackle, marine art, fishing
forecasts and fishing photo galleries at http://www.BoldWater.com/forum

�Troy Denson,
2005

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Picking a fly fishing rod is a tricky endeavor. Do you go with your ego, expected fishing environment or something else? While length is a factor, the bend or action of the rod is a key factor.

Flexibility

Fly fishing rods are often defined by their flexibility. In laymen’s terms, flexibility means how far the rods will bend when the same casting effort is used.

Minimal Bend

A fly fishing rod that has minimum bend is often called a “fast” rod. The lack of bend lets the angler get lots of speed on the cast. This speed allows you to cast very accurately and farther away than rods with more bends. While these benefits may sound great at first glance, a fast rod can be frustrating. There is no room for error when using the rod. If you are going to use one of these rods, you need excellent motion and timing. Generally, only anglers with a lot of experience should have a go at using fast rods.

Moderate Bend

The next step down from a fast rod is one with medium flexibility. These rods tend to have good flexibility, but the bend is restricted to the top half of the rod. The rod requires less perfection of motion and timing, but is fairly accurate. If you’ve been angling for a while and have the basic techniques down, a moderately flexible rod is worth a try.

Slinky Bend

If you are just taking up fly fishing, you should use a rod with maximum flexibility. While others suggest a moderate bend is better for beginners, a “slinky bend” rod gives you a lot of leeway when it comes to learning to cast.

Fly fishing is relaxing and enjoyable. Pick the wrong rod, however, and it can quickly become frustrating and stressful. If you use your brain, not your ego, when picking a rod, you will have a blast.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Fly fishing journals are great fly fishing gifts for anglers and fly fishing trips and vacations. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more fly fishing articles and stories.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

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Everyone who fishes either for sport or fun knows that while fishing itself is simple, catching fish is not. There are times when we think we have it all figured out, then days go by without as much as a nibble. What has happened, did we lose our expertise? Are the fish getting smarter? Maybe it’s the weather. In fact there are many factors that weigh into whether we are catching fish or just passing time. Even though there are many factors, I would argue there are only 3 main parts to pouring ourselves the perfect fishing cocktail. Since drink names such as “Sex on the Beach” and “Fuzzy Navel” have already been taken, may I suggest “Fish on a Hook?” The drink may be made with any combination of the ingredients. They do not have to be of equal parts, but to make a “Fish on a Hook” all 3 must be present. So put your barkeeper’s hat on and let’s start.

The first part of our drink consists of bait selection. Now I can hear you out there, “I can think of at least 10 factors which go into catching a fish.” This is true, but many are just sub-factors of choosing the main ingredients. For part 1 of our drink, we must ask questions like; “Who is our customer?” and “What do they like?” If our cocktail is being served in a high class restaurant or club, we need to use top-shelf liquor only. This will of course cost more, but that’s what these customers want. On the other hand, if we’re drinking at the local pub and money is of concern, cheaper brands of the same liquor may do the trick. Some will like their drinks made strong, others will want a better tasting, yet lower in alcohol version. Now, what does any of this have to do with the price of tea in china? KNOW YOUR FISH. Does it like jumping for top-water lures, or picking at slow moving soft baits across the bottom? What’s its main source of attraction? Some fish are attracted by sight to bright flashy objects, while others tend to follow their nose. Not only knowing what the fish like, but knowing when they like it, as well as adjusting for water temperature and weather conditions are also important factors to consider. A little research goes a long way in picking the right bait. This is a great start but we’re not quite ready to start drinking yet.

Part two of the “Fish on a Hook” recipe is technique. There are many techniques available in creating the perfect drink; “Shaken not stirred” is just one. Drinks can also be made hot, cold, or frozen. Fishermen also use varying techniques in their efforts. Whether quick popping a top water lure, fly fishing, or slow reeling through the vegetation, many of the same sub-factors which go into bait selection are also relevant here. We must consider the aggressiveness of the fish, whether they are active or lethargic. Their location,in open water or along the bank,is important in choosing the appropriate technique. “What bait am I using?” is of course another important element. Getting thirsty?

Some will say you don’t need this final part to make a “Fish on a Hook”, that if you poured the first two parts just right, number 3 is unnecessary. I beg to differ. The third and equally important ingredient is luck. There I said it. Good or bad, weekend warrior or professional angler, everyone needs a little. Ever been fishing with a buddy using the same bait and same technique, yet you are catching fish and they’re not, or vise-versa? What’s the difference? Is it that there’s more fish on his side of the boat or a few feet down the bank? Perhaps, but I say it is luck. It’s either good for you or bad for him, but it’s luck just the same. Some need half a glass, some just a splash to take the edge off, but like I said, everyone needs a little.

There you have it. Mix bait selection with technique,add some luck ,and there you have a perfect “Fish on a Hook”. Tasty isn’t it? “Wait a minute,” you say, “it can’t be that easy.” “What about fishing gear?” “What about my fish finder and GPS?” “What about my rod selection and reel choice?” - Valid questions all. I just make the drinks; you have to decide how to serve them. “Will that be in a tall or short glass?” “Straight up or on the rocks?” “With salt or without?” � you get the point. Personally, I’ll take mine any way you make it.

M. L. Kilby is a part-time writer and website administrator for: HTTP://bluelaketackle.com. He along with his father are avid fishermen who own and operate Blue Lake Tackle, LTD.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

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I just recently returned from my first fishing trip to Alaska.

If you have ever dreamed of heading to the last frontier, but have continuously put it off because of this reason or that—STOP PUTTING IT OFF!!

I myself, found reason after reason to delay one of my “dream trips” until I could no longer stand it any longer.

“Damn the time constraints and load up the Visa card boys–were headin’ to Alaska!!”

What I expected was a : ‘you should have been here in the seventies’, “spawned out” fishing destination–but what I found was a place I can’t wait to return to.

The Kenai peninsula-which to a lot of fishermen is a place that is overfished and to easily accesible-was just fine to me. Eleven different types of fish, from fourteen inch Grayling to seventy pound Halibut found it’s way on to my fishing rod, and considering I only had one week to fish in Alaska, I would say the only way I could have experienced more fish …would be to order the Alaskan sampler plate at the Red Lobster!!

Each and every day seemed to get better and better.

Lets take a look at my own personal Alaskan Sampler Plate….

We started with a nice little three mile hike complete with float tube “necklace” and blister inducing wading boots to Fuller Lakes. We were after Grayling, which would serve as a nice little appetizer of fourteen inch “dancers” on our five weight fly rods. The three mile hike would also help to take a little of the “starch” out my overly stimulated fishing gland-which was “swollen” with anticipation of fish filled waters.Evidently,they don’t believe in switchbacks in Alaska, because the trail seemed to go straight up,and when we got to the end of the trail-the sweat I wrung out of my shirt made me wonder why I even bothered to bring waders!!

When we got to the lake, a small five acre lake, it was shrouded in fog and I could only trust that Clayton- our friend, pseudo-guide,and part time mountain goat- had led us to a five acre lake, since you could only see about twenty five yards in front of you.

Nonetheless, tubes were filled and we set off into the fog like ghost ships disappearing into the great unknown.It might as well have been the start of a trans-Atlantic journey for all I knew, because as soon as Clayton paddled thirty yards out–Greg and I were on our own with nothing but the occasional splash of a hooked Grayling to act as a sound beacon to guide our way.

Eventually, after kicking around in my float tube for a half hour,I found a nice twelve inch Grayling. Then another and another…until I giggled happily as the hooked Grayling danced around me. My “giggles in the mist” attracted Greg and Clayton and after twenty or thirty fish ,we decided to leave Fuller lake. Thank goodness Clayton and Greg knew how to get back to the starting point on the lake,otherwise I might still be up at Fuller Lake, living on Grayling sushi.

I never did actually see that lake-and I hope it wasn’t an abirition–cause I sure had fun!!

Fuller lake was the perfect warm up, so to speak, and after a brief rest at Camp Yuppie Fisher,
we were ready for a little “Sockeye Swinging”.

Now, before you think that this is some sort of kinky Alaskan male-female-fish menage -a - trois, or the latest winter solstice- blues busting dance craze, understand that the Sockeye Swing is a technique of catching Sockeye Salmon on a fly.

Or- snagging them in the mouth -as the local guides like to refer to the techniques rather unique use of fly, 3/8 oz weight, and nervous “shoulder twitch”!!

Boy–it sure catches a lotta fish.

Keep in mind, in Alaska–snagging a Salmon anywhere in front of the gill plate is considered a fair hooked fish– and before you get on your purist high horse–also consider that over a million and one-half Sockeye will return on the Kenai alone this year!!

Viva la Sockeye Swing!

As with most Salmon, the Sockeye really isn’t interested in eating when it hits the river,so the only way to really catch them is to drift something into there mouths. (Although a friend of mine tells me that later in the spawn they will get angry and hit just about anything.)

The only downside was the continuous fighting of six to ten pound fish on fly rods, which is not much of a downside as far as I am concerned.

We also released all but three Salmon, and they were not sporting the bright red color yet.

I could have quit fishing now and been satisfied with the trip, but we were just getting started.

The next day was one of the best- and most underrated trips- on the Kenai peninsula.

The upper Kenai for trout.

Allen, a first year Alaskan fishing guide, and the son of Clayton, was going to be our guide that day.

The first thing I noticed about Allen was that he was walking around with nail polish. It was the evening before our trip and Allen slipped into the “guides fish hut”, where they tie flies and ready their gear for the following days floats and trips. Now, the fact that Allen was carrying a bottle of Revlon “creamsicle shaded” teflon coated “nail enhancement” might not be of concern to you–but all I could think was that it must be tough being a first year guide in Alaska!! I had already heard the term”fish- bitch” bandied about in guide circles, and thought the worst for poor Allen.

If he showed up in stilletto heels and mascara in the morning–I WAS OUT!!

My curiosity got the best of me and I took a peak into the fish hut,(O.K. -so I’m a sicko!) and was releaved to see Allen painting “fishbeads” with the nail polish. In fact, the whole bench was covered with various shades and colors of choice-and each guide had their own personal favorite shade that they used to seduce FISH!

Whew, what a relief!!

Early morning found us on the upper Kenai, floating in 20 foot Willie Drift boats(Made right here in my hometown.) with four fishermen, and Allen at the helm. I checked out Allens fingernails-just to be sure- and felt comfortable that the beads were the only things being painted! The fishbeads are supposed to simulate single Salmon eggs floating downstream,and the nail polish gives them a “milky” look-much like real eggs look like as they float downstream.

We put in above the Russian River, and the plan was to drift down through “The Canyon” all the way to Skilak Lake. I guess the theory is that the big trout in Skilak see the Salmon heading through the lake, and follow them like kids follow an ice cream truck in summer. Whatever the reason- there are some big Rainbows and Dolly Vardens in the river. Although we could have used several different methods-we used the single egg on seven weight fly rods and it didn’t take long before all of us were catching 20 inch -or better- trout. None of us caught any of the “mythical” 36 inch monsters, but everyone caught quality fish–and plenty of them.Greg landed a nice 25 inch Rainbow and I had landed a beautiful 24 inch Dolly.

The canyon was a blast and even though we didn’t catch as many fish as we had caught in the morning, the fish were all quality. Of course, the real thrill came when we were false charged(if you can call it false) by a big sow Brown bear(see Grizzly) who was protecting her cub. All this happened while I had a nice 23 inch rainbow on.(see brown spots in waders!!)

We also each caught a few more Sockeye as we took a break from trout fishing and did some more “swinging”. In fact, Greg started catching so many Sockeye-even with his fly gear- that we started to call him “Sockeye Greg”! We also chided him that he was cutting into our trout time, everytime it took him more than five minutes to land his fish!!

The trip ended with a motoring across Skilak lake-which is a “wide spot in the road” on the Kenai river. Skilak, along with Kenai lake help to make the Kenai river what it is–an incredible fishery.

The trip was all catch and release–so when we returned to “Camp Yuppie Fisher” the only thing we had take with us was our bear story and any hygenic fall out from the experience.

So, if you are keeping score-that’s four differnet species of fish in two days!!

That trip ended Allens’ work week, and like any overworked - underpaid guide, he started his “days off” by…going fishing!!We all went to Quartz creek that evening and fished for more BIG Dolly Vardens on a little spawning tributary of the upper Kenai. I was fishing a new technique-called “cast and look back over your shoulder”, which I had just developed since seeing more Brown Bear tracks on the sand bar I was fishing on. After this mornings encounter, I was happy to move further downstream and let any bears in the vicinity have this sand bar for there watering and feeding hole. Clayton also mentioned that he saw some wolf tracks, which was beginning to make me feel like a buffet item at the “all you can eat” Wildlife Diner.

At this point, something should be said about the famed “long days” of the Alaskan summers. Even in mid August the summer days are still very long with dark not coming until after 10:00 p.m- so it is not uncommon to fish until dark. This makes for a lot of red eyed fishermen and guides, and might have something to do with the “crankiness” of some of the sleep deprived fishermen–and the endless string of espresso stands that you almost could jump from roof to roof and never touch ground in Alaska.

That might be a slight exaggeration–but there are ALOT of espresso stands.

Day three on the Alaskan sampler, required a drive and another semi- short hike.I could tell you where-but then I would have to send you to Afghanistan and place you in an underground tunnel where you would never be found or seen again.

It was a special place and actually can be figured out if you do some research, but we had the whole place to ourselves, and I am not quite ready to give up the name of this “sanctuary”!!We wound up waist deep in saltwater fishing for Pink Salmon–lovingly referred to as “humpys” in Alaska. You can quickly understand where they get their nickname after seeing the “quasimodo” hump(speaking of sanctuary) that bulges from their back as they ready themselves for the spawning run up creeks and rivers.I’m not exactly sure why they get all grotesque like that–I’m just glad our spawning rituals don’t result in such an obvious display of transformation!!

This day was truly a saltwater fly fishing dream. Seven weight rods, and a fly we cleverly named “Pink Floyd”, which might give you a hint as to which color it was, and fish stacked up like cord wood waiting to head up out of the saltwater into freshwater. You could see the fins protruding up out of the water and this was the closest thing to “bonefishing” that I have ever done.

Moving into the “herd” and casting out about forty to fifty feet, then stripping slowly back would yield fish after fish after fish….until we were actually exhausted from hooking and landing “humpys”. AND these fellars would take the fly!!!Then the “humpys” would move and you would follow their dorsals until you were casting into group again.

There were more Pinks then “extras” in a remake of Ben Hur!!

Numerous times all three of us(Greg,Clayton and I) would have “triples” on and we literally quit because our arms were getting sore!

Bummer.

We even had our own “Pink Floyd” parody by the end as we sang: “all in all.. it’s just a ..nother fish on the pole…” do do do do…..

On our way out of saltwater flyfishing nirvana, we stopped to view the Pinks and Chum Salmon that had already made it into freshwater and were beginning to bury eggs. We even spotted a wayward Sockeye which looked about as out of place as a “Jay-Z” fan at a “Yanni” concert. I hoped at least one more wayward Sockeye of the opposite sex would wander up that stream, otherwise the big moment in that Salmons existence was going to go unfulfilled.

We headed back for “Camp Yuppie Fisher” and decided to take the evening off from fishing.

Instead, we hiked to the Russian River Falls, where we watched another “fisherman” catching fish in a more native Alaskan way. Actually, it was a “fisherwomen” and she would just swim back and forth at the falls picking out Sockeye like an informed consumer at a local fish market.

Finally selecting her “catch o’ the day” by burying her head in the water and pulling out a nice “catch” by her teeth. Then she would sit back and eat her catch like a giant sushi popsicle, tossing it aside half eaten while a watchful sea gull waited like a hungry bus boy about to swoop up some leftovers.

This time we were viewing the Brown bear from a safe distance on top of an overlook and didn’t really feel any danger since Salmon probably taste better than Sal-MAN.

I think??

So, day three results–five different fish species, three different bear experiences, and three sore shoulders!!

End of part 1

A.J. Klott
Author, writer of fishing humor,and “fly tack” peddler. A.J. writes about the people, characters and modern day events that surround the fishing world. His first book is due out in December of 2005.

If you need a laugh or a fun gift, visit his website at:
http://www.twoguyswithflys.com

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

High fuel prices got you down?

Imagine how most of us feel in the recreational fishing world.

Let me explain.

Here we are rounding into September, the time of year that all true “sport fishermen” look forward to. The weather is changing, and most summer crowds have gone home, leaving the rivers and lakes uncrowded and filled with frisky hungry fish readying themselves for the fall spawn and feedfest that takes place in fall.

Most of us are not lucky enough to have a river or lake out our back door, so that means traveling to our favorite fishing spots is mandatory. Two hundred miles or better is nothing when it comes to our passion.

Most fishermen -and outdoor types in general–are usually heading for the great outdoors hauling their gear in SUVs , trucks or campers/trailers.

Not exactly what you would consider “economy” cars.

I can still remember the conversation I had with Ranger Kurt about three years ago, when I convinced him to purchase an old Ford Diesel f350 in place of his trusty Toyota fishing rig.

He would love the extra room, and heck- diesel was about a dime cheaper than regular to boot!!

He like I, always seemed to just fill the back of his pick-up with just about every piece of sporting good equipment that languished in his garage.On the off chance we might feel the urge to break into a spirited game of Badminton, shoot clay pigeons, ride mountain bikes, or take an impromptu twenty mile hike into the high desert, we were ready!!

So, as our state of readiness has increased with age, our truck beds have shrunk.

Much like our spines and uhhhh hummm… other things!!

But I digress…

Anyway, as I ran out of room and had to spend thirty minutes each time loading and unloading basketballs,hockey sticks and barbecues– just to find my waders–I decided a bigger rig was in order.

Didn’t seem like a big deal at the time, back when diesel fuel was at about $1.29.

….$3.19 this morning!!

Ranger Kurt is not talking to me anymore.

I have decided to make some drastic changes in my life–at least my fishing life– and the next time you see me…. I will be driving a Vespa.

That’s right, one of those tiny Italian jobs that sound like an underpowered weed wacker.

I realize this will make it impossible to carry all the “necessary” gear I need to be ready for “impulse recreation”– but what’s a guy to do?

From now on, I will only carry the essentials–fishing rod, fly box,perhaps a sleeping bag–and wear all my necessary clothing, including waders,vest,wading boots and possibly a change of underwear. Everything else stays home!

I know this sounds drastic, but if I am to continue my passion for fishing –this may be the only way to make it affordable to do so.

I also know that the visual image of a rugged outdoorsman on the back of a Mo-ped is not exactly the vision Madison Avenue would like to sell to Orvis or Jeep Cherokee and is more akin to the image of Jim Carrey in “Dumb and Dumber”–but I don’t care!!

Look out Deschutes River Steelhead… we’re LEAN, MEAN, and riding WHINY MACHINES…

Whad’ya think?Kinda catchy, huh?

So, until the price of crude drops back down to a reasonable level, which may be never, you will recognize me as the guy out on Highway 97 wearing about fourteen layers of clothing and a pair of Hodgeman neoprene waders.

My poor Ford F250? Well, I suppose it will become an expensive dog house for my Yellow Lab-because unless I have AAA tow my vehicle around town–I can’t afford to drive it anymore.

I sure hope they don’t catch on to me!!

Oh– and Ranger Kurt–give me a call, there’s room on the back of the Vespa for you…

A.J. Klott

Author, writer of fishing humor,and “fly tack” peddler.A.J. writes about the people,characters and modern day events that surround the fishing world. His first book is due out in December of 2005.
If you need a laugh or a fun gift, visit his website at:
http://www.twoguyswithflys.com

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Want to see what’s really going on under the water or ice? You can eliminate some of the mystery beneath the water or ice and expand your knowledge by using an underwater fishing camera. An underwater fishing camera can be a wonderful tool and great fun too. An underwater camera can show you many things about your fishing techniques. It can be your eye underwater and you won’t even get wet.

See more fish, catch more fish, and have more fun fishing with an underwater fishing camera. You can put yourself eye to eye with the fish in their natural environment. You will be able to identify different species and how they react to your bait presentation. With an underwater fishing camera, the ice angler easily can determine the size and species of fish. (Fish can be detected with sonar, but it cannot identify what kind they are.)

What is the lake bottom like? Sonar can tell you whether the lake bottom is relatively hard or soft, but it’s difficult to tell whether the lake bottom is sand, gravel, or small rock. The camera shows the bottom easily and can help avoid problems.

The underwater fishing camera is also great for entertainment. You can watch fish and their reactions, even if they aren’t biting. It is also great to just record your fishing adventure so you can bring it home and show all your friends and family.

There are different models of underwater fishing camera and video mechanisms for you to choose from. Use an underwater camera for fishing or diving purposes, or as a supplemental piece of equipment used for ice fishing.

You should be able to see under water from about two feet up to 50 feet. Average viewing distance in fresh water is five to ten feet. In saltwater, the average is seven to fifteen feet.

You can easily attach the underwater fishing camera to a standard down rigger. Using a standard release clip in reverse the camera is attached to the cable just above the cannon ball. The current will make the camera look backwards at your bait while you fish.

For high-speed fishing your underwater fishing camera can be towed through the water on the HST (high-speed tow) accessory. With the HST accessory you can tow the camera up to 12 knots and have your lures drag directly behind the camera to catch any and all strikes on video.

The camera can look straight down or to the side, and even look slightly back up towards the surface. They are fully adjustable and versatile.

There are several options for controlling the camera while in the water. There’s a stabilizer fin for high current areas and a camera rotation handle for low current areas. By turning the cable with the handle the camera head will rotate with the cable.

Some underwater fishing cameras have the ability drop cameras with as much as 1000 feet of cable. Beyond 500 feet you have to add special video amplifiers which add cost to the system.

A submersible, waterproof video camera will mount to any standard camera tripod and work just as well above the water for surveillance, sport activities, wild life viewing, swimming pools, and even for security around homes and businesses.

Underwater Cameras Info provides detailed information on underwater cameras, including underwater digital cameras, underwater video cameras, and underwater fishing cameras, as well as underwater camera housing and cases. Underwater Cameras Info is the sister site of Disposable Cameras Web.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Crab fishing is popular because of three reasons:

(i) Crabs are very tasty to eat
(ii)It ’s a sport which can be enjoyed by each member of the family
(iii) It doesn’t involve much money as it is quite cost effective.

However, before setting out on a crab fishing trip with your family, here are some things to keep in mind:

1. The favorite crab for crab fishing is the blue crab, which is called Callinectes sapidus scientifically. And like its name,the blue crab comes in shades of blue, olive-green, and red.

Other crabs that are caught are mud crabs and spanner crabs.

2. There are different methods of crab fishing, which are quite cost effective and others that need a lot in terms of money and time. You can use a dip net to catch the crabs. Or there is the handline method, which is inexpensive, simple and fun.

3. If you plan to go crab fishing onshore, then the best time is when the tide is rising. For onshore crab fishing, you’ll need a dip net, long string and some type of bait, like eel, chicken necks, or small fish.

4. Always be careful when handling a live crab, especially while transferring it from the net into the container.

5. If a boat is used to catch crabs, you should use and drop cone nets with the bait tied to the bottom center of the drop net. This technique can also be used if fishing from a bridge.

6. The crabs that you catch should be stored in a closed container and kept packed in a freezer.

For more great reading about your favorite hobbies visit the authors website at: http://www.hobbyarticles.com

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Universally, the term “gone fishing” is associated with vacations. In that case planning a fishing vacation should be nothing more then a natural choice. Fishing combines sport, relaxation, communing with nature and free food and hence qualifies as the perfect vacation. From a weekend trip to the closest lake front camping ground to an adventurous and long packaged tour to the best fishing locales of the world, one has plenty of choices that could be made.

While planning a long fishing vacation, there are a couple of obvious choices to be made.
First one being what type of fishing is most appealing. The most basic breakdown here is a choice between freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Fishing vacations come in various sizes and forms. They can be started with loading your car with fishing rods and sleeping bags or calling a travel agent or professional fishng guide.

These trips can be taken all the year round. Although the first thought is generally to catch the bass biting at the very onset of spring or the blues running in autumn. Trips can be made absolutely anytime of the year, even in the dead of the winter, just in case he angler has no aversions to cutting holes in the ice.

A properly planned vacation can be fun for all, irrespective of whether you are a novice or a very serious sportsman. The only essential purchase required is the fishing license, rest all can be rented. Rods and reels, boats and crews, which can even cater lunch, can be rented out.

It can be a way for families to spend time together while simultaneously enjoying the outdoors. Although the idea of skewering worms onto hooks may sound gross yet the vacation can be fun for the entire family. Fishing is a leisurely pastime and you don’t have to excel at it to enjoy, and a total beginner might be just as good or even more than a seasoned pro.

Just because you are vegetarian, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while fishing. One may use catch and release techniques for the fun of the sport.

While as said earlier, their can be several ways of going for fishing, however packaged tours certainly has some advantages. Best part here being that all the essentials are included right in the price. One need not carry all the equipment around, and thus the trip becomes more fun. Along with the trip, the vacationer also gets the expertise of the trip provider. Thus one need not hunt around for the best �fishing hole’ and thus the chances of returning empty handed are considerably reduced. Also at fairly reasonable prices one may also get lunch included in the package deal.

Toughest decision to be made while planning a trip is, where to go. Think globally as ther are plenty of scenic fishing spots which are a real treat for anyone interested. British Columbia in Canada boasts of beautiful wilderness and streams filled with great number of fishes of an ample of species.

There are also the less exotic but easier on the pocket destination which can be good value for money. Prices for accommodations may range from 100$ to 300$.

One may also like to make it a learning experience, by opting for a Fishing School package. It generally includes hands-on and personal tutoring regarding the ins and outs of fishing. All the equipment is provided by the school. Prices may be around 300$ per session, travel expenses excluded.

Mansi aggarwal writes about fishing vacation.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Let’s face it, we dream in Technicolor of size 10 green drake hatches or Hexagenia Limbata as big as beavers - but the reality is Winter Time Is Midge Time. Often the only bugs on the frigid water are so small; they challenge most anglers to consider LASIK. And as you already know, much of the eating is under the surface.

At a fly-tying class, I once heard a locally famous fly tier named Pops quip something along the line of “my second best fly tying material supplier is Hobby Lobby”. This, of course, assumes that Blue Heron Fly Shop where we were sitting is his “first best”. This guy is also well known for the quote “it ain’t no use, if it ain’t chartreuse” but that, as they say, is another story.

Armed with this nugget of wisdom, I scoured every section of Hobby Lobby. Eureka! Great little wires for tying “ribs” of nymphs, wonderful foam sheets for terrestrials, assorted yarn varieties for �buggers, and beads, beads, beads! All this is available at a fraction of the cost of their fly-shop counterparts. Bingo!

From this magnificent Wall-O’-Beads, I found some fine little metal ones in a small pinky-sized cylinder. They came in a variety of colors like olive, purple, copper, and brown. Many had fancy names like Brown Iris Metallic Beads (the one I took home) and numerous others. Perfect. We ARE talking tiny here. Just the right size to barely squeeze on to barb-less size 20 hooks and be proportionate.

Armed with these at my fly tying station, I began to experiment. If you have ever collected and looked at tiny water bugs, you will note their appendages and segmentations are not distinct unless under a microscope. So, I combined the little bead heads with many simple body materials trying to find a simple-to-tie solution. I wanted to approximately match the hatch from recent trips to the stream. I finally boiled it down to dyed goose biots. I had originally experimented with biots to tie Prince Nymphs at a much larger scale and certainly a different application. My favorite biot color is olive, and man, what a great subtle segmented body biots make. Ultimately, I designed Duff’s Bead/Biot Midge - perfect for fishing Winter’s cold waters. More than just this emerger, I developed a powerful One-Two Punch combination that has proven itself over and over in many tailraces throughout Texas and Oklahoma.

Though the tiny bead/biot midge is a killer as a dropper below a larger nymph, the One-Two Punch consists of a dropper below a similar looking dry. Before I give you the recipe, let me describe the simplicity of these two flies. The dry fly is: olive thread, olive biot, and olive/gray hackle on a size twenty barb-less hook. The dropper, often fished just 6 inches below the dry, is: olive thread, olive biot, and metallic bead on a size twenty barb-less hook. Simple, right? It’s really easy to tie too. But don’t let that make you feel guilty when you when you catch numerous trout with it.

Duff’s Dry Midge - Olive
Materials -

• Hook: Size 20 dry
• Thread: Olive 8/0
• Body: Goose Biot dyed olive
• Hackle: Olive/Gray sized to match hook gap
• Head: Olive Thread

Technique - Crush barb, put hook in vise, jamb knot thread and wrap back to bend, tie in point of biot, wrap thread forward, spiral biot forward leaving segmentation and tie down with half hitch, tie in single hackle, trim base, wrap hackle and tie off, whip finish forming head, add cement.

Duff’s Bead/Biot Midge - Olive
Materials -

• Hook: Size 20 dry or scud/nymph
• Thread: Olive 8/0
• Body: Goose Biot dyed olive
• Head: Brown Iris Bead

Technique - Crush barb, place bead head on hook, put hook in vise, jamb knot thread and wrap back to bend, tie in point of biot, wrap thread forward, spiral biot forward leaving segmentation and tie down with half hitch (optional - tie in a few strands of crystal flash as a wing and clip close), whip finish behind bead head, add cement.

For those who are not into fly tying but are into fly fishing Scott has put together an assortment of dry flies and nymphs that no fly fisherman should be with out. See Duff’s Ultimate Midge Pack.

Scott is a lead editor and contributor to SouthwestSportsman.com, a website dedicated to the enjoyment of the great American outdoors.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Fishing Alaska: The Alaskan Sampler Plate….Part II

The good fortune of a successful fishing trip to Alaska was already socked away in the fishing memory box, so as far as I was concerned, everything else we caught was “gravy”.

Now you might say I am a guy with low expectations-and you might be right- but I never get to disappointed anymore(at least when it comes to fishing!) and if I catch more than one fish on a fly, I have pretty much exceeded my goals. Day threes “humpy” fishing was incredible.

Thus, we entered day four-hump day on the fishing trip- with low expectations.

We hadn’t really kept many fish up to this point, so we began thinking about “meat fishing”.

Most everyone I know comes back with lots of Salmon or Halibut when they return from Alaska-so not wanting to be the guy who says: ” We released all our fish.”- we decided to take a guided trip out of Seward for Silver Salmon. We already had a Halibut trip out of Homer lined up for Friday, but we didn’t want to have to count on that as our only chance for keepers.

During the week at “Camp Yuppie Fisher” we had seen this fella running around in an apron packing fish fillets and cleaning fish, I assumed he must be the infamous and often maligned “fish bitch”, which had taken on the mystique of the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus by now.

Little did I know, this man was to be our guide for our Silver Salmon trip!

O.K., so a man of humility and not afraid of having his manhood challenged–I thought!!

“Who you going out with?” a couple of the employees inquired.

“Oscar”** I replied.
**Please note that I have changed this guides name to protect the guilty–but if you see a guy running around in an apron with a less than pleasant attitude, on the Kenai peninsula–you might be able to figure out who it is.

A strange and almost sympathetic whince came over the faces of the employees.

“What?”

“Is there something we need to know about Oscar?”

“Ahhhhh…. noooo….no, you guys will do all right… Oscar will find you some fish.”

Something was not right. Apron, evasive answers, do all right !?!

“C’mon, tell us what’s up.” I said.

“Well, Oscar can be a little rough on people–just ignore him and you will be all right.”

If those employees were Ebert & Roper–I would assume they would have said: “Just stay away from this one–save your money.” BUT being employed by “Camp Yuppie Fisher” made it difficult for them to be too “candid”.

“How bad can he be?” I said this out loud–and only heard chuckles.

Never being one to shy away from an “experience” -good or bad-I was actually looking forward to seeing Oscar in action. Afterall, they did say he would find us fish!!

The first hint of “the guide from hell syndrome”, appeared when we were introduced to Oscar that night before our trip.

“These are your clients for tomorrow, Oscar.”

No eye contact and barely any recognition took place at this moment.

Now, I don’t necessarily need someone to break into a chorus from the Sound of Music or hand me a happy face button- but it would be nice to have someone say- “Great see you tomorrow, we are going to have a great day!!”. Just a little positive energy would be nice.

Oscar, was like the grim reaper.

“Bring your rain gear, there are small craft advisories tomorrow, famine and pestulence should follow and don’t be surprised if we are forced to sacrifice one of you to the fishing Gods.”

That isn’t word for word–but he might as well have said it that way. He should have traded his apron for a black cloak and a scythe.

The morning of the trip wasn’t much better.

Getting up at 4:00 a.m for a fishing trip is tough enough-but then to be ignored at the “fishermans breakfast” with little or no game plan, other than pass the ketchup and “Don’t forget your rain gear”, made me wonder if I had gone to junior high with this guy and accidently hit him with a spitball!! Although, if I had known him….. it wouldn’t have been an ACCIDENT.

Somehow, we figured out which rig to get into and were soon on our way.

Joining Greg and I were brothers from Australia. Actually, one was living in Oregon and the other was still in Australia, so this was a reunion of sorts for two grown men who obviously had traveled a great distance to reconnect.

Poor guys.

Oscar didn’t say much on the way to Seward. Just more ominous forecasts and little warm fuzzy statements like:” I don’t like to guide for people I don’t know anymore.”

Sure glad I passed him the ketchup. Heck, that practically made us best buddies.

Again, understand- I have had enough guides in my fishing life to know that they are not exactly Wal-Mart greeters- but at least if they just talk about the days plan or how we are going to fish, helps to make a forty five minute drive go a little faster.

The Aussies were jovial guys and we had some fun along the way talking about Crocadiles, Foster’s beer,and physical therapy. All of which had nothing to with each other–I think! Neither of them did much fishing, so they really felt in the dark about things.

We got to Seward, and all in all the weather wasn’t to bad, although the sky was getting darker and there was a light mist beginning to fall. Everything was loaded into our Willie Predator, which isn’t exactly the Queen Mary when it comes to size or security on the ocean.

At least we had Mr. Sunshine–Oscar.

The trip out into the bay was invigorating, and I had to fight the urge to stand on the bow and yell ” I’m the king of the worldddddd.” Mainly, because the Aussies would have pummelled me if I did.

Oscar had his fish finder and radio going, and headed to where the Silvers were being caught. We motored out about an hour from Seward, and settled into a cove where FINALLY -Oscar gave us some rundown on the game plan.

We would do some trolling and we would do some jigging.

I looked at the Aussies and wondered if they were ready to break into some fancy dance moves and….whatever….. because I am not sure they knew what the terms “trolling and jigging” meant.

In Oscars defense–he did give us instruction at this point. Then he proceeded to give the Aussies a little rundown on the use of a level wind reel and mentioned that if they didn’t want to look like “twelve year old girls” they should hold their rods further up the butt.? !!?

God, I hope the Aussies had a sense of humor!!

He also pre-scolded them for the “backlash” they were going to have when they suffered through the learning curve of the level wind reel “rats nest”.

First, we would troll.

We let our lines out the appropriate amount of turns on our reels and began to troll. Oscar told us it was important to either set our rods in the rod holders, or to be sure that we held our rods at the same angle and level that the rod holders were set at. Being one who likes to feel the bite, I held on to my rod and was careful to have it at the proper angle. I was the first to get a strike and Oscar told me to wait on the hook set. He said nothing on how the hook set should be-and since during his short instruction I had watched him give a pretty good set when it was time to set the hook– I gave a pretty good hook set and Oscar almost flew out of his seat.

“Geez, your not catching Marlin-what are you doing!!”

I have never hooked a Marlin so I am not sure how hard to set the hook when Marlin fishing-but I have hooked a lot of Salmon-and this was pretty much the same hookset I always give Salmon. The Silver was on and running and for thirty seconds or so my rod bent over and I had a nice battle.

The fish got off.

You would have thought that I had just lost the first fish anyone had ever lost on an Oscar guided trip. Oscar reprimanded me with a good tongue lashing.It certainly wasn’t my first lost fish or my last. I laughed and now knew what everyone meant by “he can be a little rough on people”.

Next, it was one of the Aussies turn to recieve the wrath of Oscar.

The perverbial “backlash” occured and Oscar lit into our friend from down under with a humiliating diatribe that left the Aussie feeling like….a “twelve year old girl”!! Then while he worked on unraveling the backlash, he got on the radio and in talking with one of the other guides, announced to the world that he was working on the WORST BACKLASH HE HAD EVER SEEN IN TWENTY YEARS OF GUIDING.

Nothing better than paying to get insulted.

I could go on and on about more of the Oscarisms while we were out to sea-but mercifully- we only had to fish for two hours, because Oscar said the ocean was getting to rough to stay out any longer.

Not nearly as rough as the time with Oscar.

Somehow we managed to catch eight Silvers and way to many Dog Sharks. Oscar justified the short trip by saying if we had fished on the lower Kenai that day for Silvers we would have our limit. There was no offer to stop and bottom fish on the way in, even though the inner bay was quite fishable. Oscar also made sure to mention “tipping the guide” somewhere during our travels and since I somehow “forgot” to tip Oscar I have a tip for him now: IF YOU ARE BURNT OUT FROM GUIDING, QUIT… OH, AND WHILE YOU ARE AT IT—-STOP WEARING THAT SILLY APRON AROUND AND YOU MIGHT HAVE A LITTLE MORE SELF-ESTEEM!!!

There, now I feel better…

to be continued…

A.J. Klott

Author, writer of fishing humor,and “fly tack” peddler.A.J. writes about the people,characters and modern day events that surround the fishing world. His first book is due out in December of 2005.

If you need a laugh or a fun gift, visit his website at:
http://www.twoguyswithflys.com

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Every fisherman dreams of a bigger catch! Is it possible to know beforehand when you should plan a trip to enjoy some fishing, catch more than usual, and come home feeling 100% satisfied? Based on my own personal research around the best fishing times, I think it is.

When I first started fishing, the best fishing time for me was whatever time happened to suit me. I tried different lures, baits and techniques until I’d spent a small fortune in my quest to improve my fishing catch. When I finally heard about the “Solunar Theory”–or fishing by moon phase–like most anglers, I was skeptical.

What I’d read sounded too complicated. All sorts of factors needed to be checked and the determined angler needed to be at the water’s edge at exactly the right time, TO THE MINUTE, in order to improve on his average catch. Was I really willing to take my hobby that seriously? Let’s just say that curiosity got the better of me.

To help me determine whether there was any truth in the moon’s effect on the best fishing times, I kept a record of every trip I made over a period of 18 months. All information related to the moon’s phases, the weather conditions and the catches I made were carefully logged. What I discovered convinced me that moon phase fishing works. BUT, I also found that it isn’t anywhere near as complicated as many would have us believe.

How Does Fishing By Moon Phase Work?

Every fisherman knows that the best fishing times are when the fish are feeding. This tends to be during dawn and dusk, but what often goes unnoticed are the two periods elsewhere in the day–moonrise and moonset. Because the moon has an effect on a variety of factors surrounding the fish–including the live fodder they hunt–these periods, combined with the moon’s phase, are what trigger feeding.

By understanding this, and choosing times when sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset coincide with new or full moon phases, you’ll increase you chance of a good fishing catch. Assuming there are fish in the area, of course.

Choosing The Best Fishing Times

There really is nothing complicated about this at all; it’s just a matter of knowing ahead of time exactly when the sun and moon will rise and set. Fish are most active during 90-minute windows surrounding each of these four daily events; that’s 45 minutes before and after these four daily points.

Fishing during these four periods will help increase your fishing catch, but if you plan wisely so as to ensure you’re at the water’s edge on the days of new or full moon, you can use these ‘windows’ to reel in a catch like you’ve never done before. If you have to choose between sunrise/set and moonrise/set, always go with the moon as the moon is the stronger influence.

Hunters have always known that fish and game are most active at dawn and dusk–sunrise and sunset–but their activity surrounding moonrise and moonset is less noticeable because these events are likely to occur without e�ffecting any change in the perceived light. The rise and set of a new moon is invisible anyway, and overcast weather often hides the moon. Without prior knowledge of setting and rising times, two of the best fishing times will be missed every day!

Other Considerations

When planning your fishing by moon phase, there are certain other factors that should also be considered.

Weather - Severe weather changes have an impact on the way fish feed. When a storm’s brewing, or just after one has passed, is a good time. If this happens while you’re in place, you’ll be in for a treat! However, if there’s a cold front approaching, the fish are likely to move deeper into the water and become inactive.

Season - Most fish are more likely to bite willingly during seasonal transitions with the transition from winter to spring and summer to fall being the two best fishing times.

Now that you know that moon phase fishing really works, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t utilize this knowledge to increase your own fishing catch by being at the ready with your rod during the best fishing times available. It’s easy and it works!

Good luck!

David Rose is an outdoor enthusiast and the creator of QuickPhase Pro, a popular moon phase software program. Visit http://www.calculatorcat.com/moon_phases to discover the fun and easy way to view the phases of the moon and increase your fishing catch.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Port Renfrew is a small Canadian town with a major fishing problem. The problem is the sport fishing is great and only a few people know that.

We arrive in Port Renfrew in late afternoon. Port Captain Quigley greets us at the entrance to Osprey Cabins. Quigley and his family provide these comfortable cabins in a beautiful rural setting - and there’s an outdoor hot tub to boot! Their place is one of the most popular accommodations in Port Renfrew ,and their rates are very reasonable.

Captain Quigley is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable guides we’ve ever met. We’ve been out with the affable “Capt’n Quig” before, at his other fishing operation in Sooke, ,B.C. (45 minutes west of Victoria), so we know we’re in good hands!

The alarm shatters our solid sleep at 5 a.m. We’re on the water by 6:00. The sun is just coming up behind us as we speed westward, heading towards the mouth of the Port San Juan Inlet. Quigley’s boat is fast and powerful. We hang on to our seats as we bounce over the big waves!

We stop just off Camper’s Beach , where the West Coast Trail from Port Renfrew meets the “Pacific Ocean” for the first time. The shoreline cliffs were spectacular and carved into numerous huge dark caves.

Captain Quigley points over the port side towards the open Pacific. “Next stop Hawaii, and that-away Japan!” The water is as calm as it ever gets out here, but the rolling swells are huge. The sun is shining brightly now, but cool dark fog is already rising from the water, cloaking the cliffs. It looks like the trees are suspended in the air far above us.

Captain Quigley tells us we’re sure to catch some big ones today. Swiftsure Bank, where Juan de Fuca Strait drops off into the deep blue Pacific, is where halibut and salmon are most plentiful. It’s hard to believe we’re fishing on the edge of the open Pacific Ocean.

The first one I catch is a screamer! They call it that because it grabs the bait and takes off. The line literally ’screams’ as the fish runs. Quigley knows what to do. He puts the boat in gear and chases the fish. My eyes
almost pop when I look down at the reel and there are only about 3 wraps of line left! In seconds, the fish had run almost 300 yards of line. I reel as fast as I can until the line’s tight again and the fight’s back
on

Non-stop excitement, boats all around us are getting strike after strike. On Quigley’s radio, we can hear the guides sharing information about their catches - “Double strike, 40 feet down!” They all share their success so everyone else can succeed too. Even when there’s a lull, and the fish aren’t biting, Captain Quigley is entertaining us. He teaches us his latest fish-luring chant and the accompanying dance: “Chinook, Chinook - Bite on my hook, my hook!” There is never a dull moment on board.

And when the fish are biting, Quigley is a very patient teacher: “Let him run! That’s it� He’s got the whole boat to play with. Let him tire himself out�”

Later, Quigley tells us a story about the biggest fish ever landed on his boat. He had taken an elderly couple on an expedition, and it was turning out to be a disappointingly uneventful day - not one bite, until they decided to turn back! Then, all of a sudden, they got a nibble. It was a huge struggle, but with Quigley’s help, they reeled it in - a 52-pounder! Now that’s a really big salmon.

It went on to win several categories in the fishing derby. We catch our limit long before the charter’s over, each fish is in the twenty-pound range. We had about 100lbs of fish on board, enough to feed us all winter! (We were fishing for spring salmon as the Coho and Sockeye fisheries were temporarily closed.)

When I made dinner that night, back in Victoria, one fillet filled the grill on my barbeque! Five people dug in and there
was2/3 left over! We’re talking serious salmon here, folks!

Small town, big fishing problem - right? Now you know.

Ron Kirstein is the owner of a Canadian Travel & Tourism Web site (since 1995). Ron has traveled the length and breadth of Vancouver Island British Columbia Canada in search of adventures. For exciting additional information and color pictures of Ron’s Island Fishing Adventure visit his Travel Magazine.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Fly fishing is very different than fishing with a lure or worm type baits. The fly fisherman uses a artificial fly consisting of bites of feathers, foam, hide, fur, yarn, and other materials to be tried on to a hook that make it appealing to the type of fish you are catching.

Every fly fisherman has his own type of flies he like to use some purchase them and then some of us like to tie our own. Fly tying is more of an art with basic training which most people can learn over a short period of time.

Dry fly fishing is the best classic form of fishing. The artificial fly is cast so that it floats on the surface of the water. As the fly passes over the fish it will rise to the surface and strike or take the fly.

With the fly rod you will attempt to stop the fish from spitting out the fly and get it tired enough so you can land it in your net. With fly fishing you will see all the action as you cast the fly and play the fish for a strike. The fly is very visible on the surface to the fish. You will see the fish take the fly on the surface however trout and other fish tend to feed under water so if you see the fish rising to the surface it is time to use a dry fly.

Wet flies will sink under the surface of the water an may be passed in front of the fish there bye causing the fish too strike at the fly,

Nymph fishing is very popular after the flies lay eggs on lakes or in streams and they hatch out as nymphs. As the nymphs make their way to the surface the fish will take them. When they get to the surface they will hatch into a flies.

When nymph fishing the imitation nymphs you us will be weighted to stay below the surface of the water. This will be far more of a challenge for you as the action all take place under the surface of the water and you will not be able to see if a fish is about to strike.

Most fish can be caught on a fly but the most common are trout, salmon, chars, and most game fish. In most areas the trout are the most popular and you will find them feeding mostly on small insects in shallow water. If you live on the coast you find salmon fishing with a fly rod a very rewarding challenge. Hooking a 30 or 40 pound salmon on a fly rod will give you a work out running up and down the beach trying to play the fish out to land it .

The fly fishing sport has gained ever increasing popularity over the years. Most will agree it just not about catching the fish but in the delivery of the fly and the skill and knowledge in the pursuit.

Some fly fisherman regard fly fishing as the holy grail of fishing. It is more relaxing and some say a better past time than golf. The sport of fly fishing see people from all walks of life. Some say it is more environmentally friends than the other type of fishing because it does less harm to the fish then other styles of fishing.

The art of fly fishing will get in to your blood and you will peruse the quite of the streams or the solitude of the ocean beaches to capture you prey. Most anglers will catch and release if they are fly fishing.

Sammy Salmon has been having fun fishing for years and wants to share all his knowledge with you so be sure to visit him at Fishing-For-Fun

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Shark Fishing From the Beach

It is a well known fact that in the summertime many Sharks move from the deeper waters offshore into inland waterways and beaches. Why do they do this? Well the Sharks seek warmer shallow waters to carry out mating rituals and to either lay eggs or give live birth. So why is this important? It is very important if you are interested in swimming or in landing huge fish from the bank. There is no other type of fishing (that I know of) where the angler has an exceptional chance of hooking on to a 500lb plus fish while fishing from the bank.

Living near the Gulf of Mexico during my youth my family would take at least one vacation each summer to the beach. Week long vacations at the beach can sometimes get a little boring for a kid who grew up in the Hardwood Bottoms of middle Georgia. Fishing was the answer to my problems. I started off doing some light surf fishing but soon realized that there were truly bigger fish in the sea.

On one trip in peticular I was introduced to shark fishing as I know it today. A friend and I had made our way down to the Pensacola Beach Peir for an afternoon of catching Blues, Spanish, Kings and hopefully a Cobia. We fished like we always had with live menhaden and had an average day. A few spanish, a pretty hefty king and more blues than we knew what to do with. We began to gather our gear for the walk home when another fisherman was arriving at the pier. As the guy made his way down the pier I noticed that he was holding the biggest fishing rod and reel that I had ever seen. I had to approach the guy.

When I first approached the fella he was nice and friendly. But when I started probing him about his fishing techniques he quickly shut off. I could tell (from years of dealing with older wiser fishermen) that this guy had a secret about fishing and I had to know it.

Well Mike (my fishing buddy) and I had a meeting right there on the pier and decided that we would stay on the pier and watch the guy and try to figure out what he needed such a big reel for. So I made a quick trip back to the condo to inform my parents that we would not be back until late and for them not to wait up for us. After some haggling permission was granted. I loaded up on sandwich meat, bread, crackers, beenie-weenies and sardines for our all night fishing trip.

When I returned to the pier about an hour before sunset I was amazed that the guy had yet to put his hook in the water. He had been at the pier almost two hours and had not wet a line. When I approached the guy and inquired about why he was not yet fishing, he replied “..I only have one bait..”. Now I have been fishing all my life and I know that when you go fishing you need more than one bait. The guy had to notice the puzzled and confused look on my silenced face so he went into a little detail. He explained, as he opened a cooler, that in shark fishing it is good to have more than one bait but that he was so skilled that he only needed one. Upon opening the cooler the fella removed a Spanish Mackrel that easily weighed 4lbs. I said “…that’s a nice spanish, are you going to grill it or fry it?” He replied “It’s my bait”. “The whole thing?”, “Yep”.

Things were definately starting to come together now. I’ve heard of using big bait to catch big fish but this was a little extreme. Then I saw a way for us to ‘bribe’ this guy into teaching us how to fish for sharks. I offered him the Spanish Mackrel that we had caught earlier in the day. He instantly replied “What do I have to do for them?” “Teach us how to do what you’re doing”

We were in!! The guy lightened up and said at least he would have some company on the desolate peir. With extra bait the guy instantly began rigging up the behemouth pole. He withdrew a steel cable leader with a massive hook on one end and a swivel on the other. He began explaining in detail the ins and outs of shark fishing. “..the leader has to be at least 15 feet long or longer, I like mine at least 20′, and you can’t get this stuff at a bait store, you have to go to the hardware store…” I questioned him about the hook and swivel, he replied that they were purchased from a local tackle shop at $2-4ea. I was quickly realizing that shark fishing could get expensive quick. He glanced toward our 4/0 Penn Fishing Reels and scoffed “You guys are going to need some bigger tackle.” In disbelief I asked “Do you really need a reel as big as yours?” he replied “If you want to catch big fish you have to have big tackle”. His reel was a 14/0 Penn Senator and looked as if it would hold 5 miles of the braided 80lb test line that it was spooled with.

I suddenly was stumped. How was this guy going to cast a 20′ steel leader with a 4lb spanish mackrel hooked to the end of it? My question would be answered by means of kayak. The guy removed a kayak from his truck and began to paddle toward the end of the pier. Upon arriving at the end directly beneath us he instructed for us to “carefully” lower the spanish mackrel with a gaff-sized hook in it into his lap. We did as we were told and the guy was off paddling in a flash.

Ok, here is the situation: This crazy guy is paddling in a kayak toward the middle of the ocean, in shark infested waters with a 4lb spanish mackrel laying in his lap. At this point I began to question the guys sanity.

Paddling the bait out took no more than 5mins and very quickly the guy took his seat next to his reel. After fooling with the reel for a while, checking drag, engaging a clicker and securing the reel to the pier with a rope he sat back and opened a cold beer and said “Now we wait.” “How long?” I replied. “As long as it takes.” he firmly stated.

After several long boring hours of catching catfish and an ocassional foot long shark I was beginning to grow tired of waiting. Could Shark Fishing really be worth all this effort and time? Not even a single bite on the big pole. Then I heard the sweetest most spine tingling sound that a fisherman could possibly hear. Drag! And lots of it, More than I had ever heard before. The massive reel was producing the loudest most chilling sound that I could ever imagine. Line was being stripped off at a phenominal rate and the guy was just sitting there watching it. What was he doing? Obviously the Shark had the bait why wasn’t he setting the hook?

He slowly began strapping himself into what appeared to be a fish fighting harness. Calmly picked up the reel and strapped it in the butt holder and clipped straps from his shoulders to the reel. I realized that this guy was strapping himself directly to the reel! If something went wrong he would not be able to just let go of the reel, he was truly one with the reel.

With line stripping off as if it were tied to the bumper of a Porshe the guy engaged the reel and the demeanor on his face changed instantly. With the ferocity of a college line backer he began repeatidly setting the hook while almost running backward. When he reached the end of his walkway he would reel down on the fish and almost jog back to the edge of the pier. This process was repeated two or three times. Then the fight began!

For the first hour it appeard that he was going to almost be able to reel the fish directly in. Kinda like cranking in a boat with a wench. Boy was I wrong. Seemingly the Shark was just swimming toward the pier and did not know that he was even hooked. When it appeared that the shark was getting close he turned and headed out to sea. He ran and stripped drag for what seemed like an eternity. Line leaving the 14/0 reel a hundred yards at a time. With adrenaline pumping the excitement began to slightly subside. The guy was in a calm and focused mood with one thing on his mind. After a couple of hours fighting the guy (while still fighting the fish) asked me to reach into his cooler and get him a water. What? This guy wants to drink water while he is fighting this monster fish? He explained that in the course of fighting a big fish it was very important to remain hydrated. I asked how long the fight usually took. And he replied that the fight time varies greatly from one fish to another, some lasting only an hour and some lasting 12-14 hours.

The battle was one of constant give and take he would reel in 100 yards and the shark would take 200. An hour rolled into two, two to three, until all track of time was lost. Soon we were awakened to what time it was as the sun began to creep up from the dark abyss in the east. This guy had been fighting this fish from a little after sunset until sunrise with no vast improvement in line on the reel. My realization of the addictiveness of shark fishing came when the guy stated “… I hope this fish comes on in I have to be at work by 10:00am…” This guy had stayed up all night fighting this huge fish (which we hadn’t even seen yet) and he had to be at work in 5 hours. That is true Dedication and love for a sport.

It was about 8:30am when we got our first glimpse of the shark. The guy said it looked like a Bull Shark and was probably around 12 feet long. It looked more like 20′ to me. As the shark began to tire the question came to me “What are you going to do now?” I asked and he replied “What do you mean what am I going to do now, I’m gonna land this fish take some pictures and go to work…” Sounded like a good idea to me but we were 20′ off the water on the pier there was no possible way to hoist the thousand pound fish up onto the pier. Then everything began to come clear. The guy was making his way down the pier toward the beach. When he reached the end of the pier he made his way down to the beach. Us not far behind. The guy worked the shark past the first sandbar and up into the shallow waist deep water at the breakers. When the Shark appeared to have run out of energy the guy disengaged his reel and handed it to me. “If he starts running just hold on to the reel.” The guy removed a length of rope from his belt and began to wade out to the shark. With a loop in one end of the rope he grapped the sharks tail and secured the loop around it. With a grunt he began to drag the massive fish up onto the beach. With half the fish in the water and half out he removed a waterproof disposable camera from his pocket and handed it to me. “Take the whole roll with me and the shark.” I started snapping pictures and soon the roll was gone. I turned around and to my amazement we had drawn a huge crowd of people. Onlookers, tourist, kids, old people, even a few beach dogs and a mangy looking cat had been drawn to the fiasco.

With the film in the camera gone the guy measured the shark, untied the tail rope and walked the shark out to deeper water. He stayed with the shark long enough for it to regain its strength and let it go. The defeated creature slowly slumbered out past the first sandbar and onto the second. I was truly in disbelief. This guy had fought this fish all night with his own blood sweat and probably some tears only to let it go.

When I questioned him about this he simply replied, “Where else can you spend $20, catch a thousand pound fish and have a blast all night doing it. I do it for the fun of it. I catch fish people only dream about and I let them go so I can catch them again.” It was then that my outlook on fishing was changed forever. It is not about what you take home for the table, it’s what you take home for yourself. Don’t get me wrong I love fish and I harvest many fish each year to eat, but I let the big ones go. They have made it this far, why should I be the one to end it for them.

Then I realized something: It was all worth it, the reel, the rod, the bait, the hooks, line, money and time. It was all woth it.

Five months later after saving every paycheck from my summer job I ordered my first shark fishing reel a 16/0 Penn Senator for $300 from Bass Pro Shops. I also ordered line, 3000 yard of Braided 80lb test $250 and a rod to put it all on $120. Ever since that night on the Pensacola Pier I have a new addiction in my life Shark Fishing. I have been to beaches all over the South Eastern United States combing the beaches and peirs for just the right sandbar, just the right current and tide. I usually rent a kayak from the local Beach Supply Store and we usually camp or rent a hotel. The bait is hard to find and expensive. I have found the best places to find fresh fish is at a fish market and usually Asian fish markets have a much wider selection to choose from. My most successful baits are as follows: King Mackrel, Spanish Mackrel, Jack Crevelle, Bonito and lastly Mullet.

I have since caught many sharks and several over 10 feet long. All of them off of a Beach or a Pier. I have also introduced several friends to my addiction, they too have seen the light and purchased equipment. Shark fishing is something the whole family can truly enjoy. It’s not just about catching the fish. It’s about good friends, family and beautiful beaches.

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Buddy Bass has been an avid participant in Outdoor Activities since birth. He presents the good the bad and the ugly that all fishermen and hunters know. If every trip were perfect It wouldn’t be any fun.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

I decided to write this guide because a couple of years ago I was the “beginner.” I don’t claim to be a master at it, but I have lost my fair share of fish and have put a few in the freezer each year. Let me start by saying that, to the best of my knowledge, Michigan has the best Salmon fishery in the United States except for Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest (which is where our Salmon were originally stocked from). I also have to say that once you hook one, you will be “hooked” on the experience. I have broken this article into several parts to keep it organized, and from time to time the article will be updated as I learn more about it. This year I am going to try fly-fishing for the Salmon as well as bait fishing.

About the Fish

Salmon stocking started in Michigan in 1967 to combat the excessive Alewife population. The first species to be stocked was the Coho. As time went on the Chinook was added to the mix. Since that time they have taken off, and between the naturally reproduction that occurs and the DNR stocking we now have one of the best salmon fisheries anywhere. For pictures of the fish please refer to the Michigan Fishing Regulation book for the current year. In addition to the Coho and Chinook salmon you may also occasionally catch a Pink Salmon or Atlantic Salmon, but to the best of my knowledge it doesn’t happen often. Maybe someone reading this can correct me if I am wrong.

Where to Go

We are lucky to have access to a state that has such a diverse fishery. Very few states have as many lakes and rivers as we do, or have the variety of fish that live there. For our particular purposes we need rivers that drain into the Great Lakes, since that is where the salmon spend their adult lives. If you search the internet you will find many rivers that have salmon such as the Muskegon, Big Manistee, Little Manistee, Pere Marquette, and Betsie, just to name a few. Some of these rivers have naturally reproducing populations of Salmon while others are stocked by the DNR. There are also several rivers in the Upper Peninsula that play host to salmon in the fall. In all the rivers you have to pay close attention to the fishing regulations because certain sections of the rivers may be closed to fishing to protect the spawning fish or have limitations on the gear you can fish with.

When to Go

The main salmon run occurs every fall. There is no set start date, but you can usually start to see fish in the river in early September, and expect the run to be pretty much done by the end of October. A lot of this depends on the weather. A lack of rain and/or warm weather can make the run start later, and extra rain with cooler temperatures can cause the run to start a little earlier. I guess it all depends on when the fall rains and cooler temperatures hit the area. If you go to the rivers during September and October you are going to eventually find fish, it’s just a matter of timing it to catch the big run.

How to Fish For Them

This article is only going to cover techniques for the fisherman who wades. Most fishermen use either a spinning rod or fly rod and do the Chuck-and-Duck method. I believe this fishing method was named by the fly-fisherman because of the extra weight involved and the problem of getting hit in the head (Been There-Done That). You can also cast flies, such as Wooly Buggers, egg patterns, streamers, nymphs, and probably others I don’t know about yet. Yet another method is to suspend spawn, flies, or jigs below a float of some type. Whatever rig you choose you will need some waders, a net of some type, a head-lamp or other light source for night fishing, rain-gear, and some warm clothes.

The Chuck-n-Duck method usually involves a three-way swivel, some type of weight, and a hook with salmon eggs or yarn balls. I have also seen anglers use flies or plugs instead of the hook and spawn. A diagram can bee seen at Figure 1 which is listed at the end of the article.

I personally prefer to use about a 3′ leader when I fish this method but you will have to experiment and modify it to fit the conditions. If the fish are spooky you might need to lengthen the leader a bit more. You can also do a modified version of this without the three way swivel by using rubber-core sinkers for weight. To do this, tie the hook directly to your main line and then connect a rubber-core sinker above the hook about 18″ for weight. This will get your lure into the current but not necessarily bouncing on the bottom. Again, you will have to experiment with the length of line between the weight and the hook, but I would keep it at least 12″ from the hook. A diagram of this rig can be seen in Figure 2 which is listed at the end of the article.

Fishing flies for salmon is gaining in popularity. I have not tried it yet, but plan too this year. I understand that the usual flies are either egg patterns, woolybugger variations, big streamers, and egg-sucking leaches. I am going to try them all and see if I can get a hit. The nice thing about fishing the flies is that you also run the chance of hooking other trout species while searching for the salmon. If you want more professional instruction on fly-fishing for salmon there are several outfitters that are offering the service now. Do an internet search on it and you should have little difficulty finding one.

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

What is a “twitch” bait?

First off, what is a “twitch” bait? I first heard this term from my Brother-In-Law when he saw me catching fish on one and mumbled, “I never could catch anything on those twitch baits.” A twitch bait is really nothing more than a floating crankbait with a very small lip.The bait runs a few inches under the surface with a steady retrieve and returns to the surface when the retrieve is stopped. Some examples would be the original Rapala(tm), or some of the floating Yo-Zuri(tm) lures but there are many models and brands, so pick your favorite.

How do you fish it?

Now onto the important part, how to fish the bait as a “twitch” bait. This is a real simple method but it requires some imagination. The whole idea is to imitate a dying fish on the surface. You’ve all seen them, those fish that make a few ripples on the surface and then swim a foot or so before returning to the surface again due to exhaustion. This is no different. I fish it in different areas depending on the time of day and weather. One thing though, if its real windy out skip the small twitch bait and move to something that runs underwater or makes a bigger surface disturbance. Basically you will want to cast the bait and let it sit until the rippes settle. Be ready for a strike though, because I have had fish hit the lure when it first lands on the water. Give it a quick jerk to make it dive forward and then let it surface. Twitch it a couple of times on the surface to make it ripple but not move. Repeat and mix up this process. Sometimes I will give it two or three jerks to make it jump forward underwater. Other times I will twitch it just enough to move it forward over real shallow weeds to the next open hole. Here are the areas I concentrate on depending on the time of day.

Night to Early Morning Locations

When fishing one of these baits early in the morning I will fish shallow weed edges or flats with some kind of cover. Usually you will be seeing the tail-end of the night feeding crowd that has been out on the prowl. As the light gets brighter they will move closer to structure for ambush possibilities.

Mid-Day Locations

Here is where you get to test your casting skills. Move up towards the thick weeds that have open pockets. Start casting to the close pockets and work your way out. Move the boat quietly to avoid pushing the fish to other cover. If you don’t cover all of a pocket on the first cast then throw back again, the fish might not move far from cover to get their meal.

Evening to Night Locations

Start moving towards the weed edges and flats again. The edges near the cover that you fished in mid-day seems to usually produce. I have fished these baits with success at night but usually move on to Jitterbugs for surface work and Texas-Rig worms for fishing structure. I will write an article soon on my experiences with night Bass fishing.

Conclusion

Hopefully I haven given you some ideas of what to do with those lures. It works for me and is my fallback method when all else fails. The idea is simple, you just have to work at until you get the technique. Feel free to email me with questions or comments about this article, or post your questions in the forums.

MichFish.com Online Michigan Lake Maps, Online Personal Fishing Diary, forums, and fishing articles.

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

In the hustle and bustle of day to day living in the 21st century, many people have their eyes open for activities that provide a much needed break from rushed routines. In this regard, when it comes to a sport that can be enjoyed by all members of a family, many people turn to fly fishing. Fly fishing has enjoyed continuous popularity with people of all ages — from senior citizens to children who have barely learned to walk.

What many people do not realize is that fly fishing is actually an ancient form of angling. In other words, fly fishing has been around for thousands of years. Initially, fly fishing was developed primarily by ancient peoples to catch trout and salmon. However, as the centuries progressed, fly fishing came to be used to catch other types of fish, including carp, bass and pike. Indeed, in this day and age, fly fishing as a technique even is used in salt water fishing in certain circumstances.

The reason that so many people enjoy fly fishing is really twofold or on two distinct levels. First of all, people obviously like actually taking off to a lake, pond or stream to cast for fish. However, a good many men, women and children also enjoy the preparatory process of making flies. For many people, fly tying is a much loved activity.

The making of flies to be used in fly fishing really has developed into something of a specialized art form. Certainly, the creation of flies has become an important hobby and past time enjoyed by people the world over. Over time, there have developed organizations dedicated to fly tying. Additionally, specialized schools favoring different types of fly tying have been created, drawing adherents from all across the globe.

During ancient times, fishers would craft flies using animal fur and bird feathers. Their goal was to create a fly that looked similar to insects and the like that fish naturally were attracted to as food. While the purpose of the handcrafted fly has not changed over time, the materials that are used to create flies has broadened greatly. In today’s world, the materials that people use in the crafting of handmade flies is limited only by imagination.

A notable number of families actually plan an annual vacation or holiday trip around fly fishing. They plot out travel plans that will take them to one or even several different fishing spots where they can spend truly quality time together fishing. In recent years, a number of resorts have been developed specifically for families who are interested in taking a fly fishing holiday.

With that said and when all is said and done, a family interested in fly fishing does not need to plan a grand holiday to enjoy the sport. Rather, they can spend a perfect day casting about in a local lake, pond or stream and create truly appreciated, fond memories for all — memories that will be cherished for years on end.

Written by Shell Gellner
A Great Place For Discount Sporting Goods
http://www.rifles-n-rods.com

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips

Deep fishing can be for sport or commercial means. It is the practice of fishing in deep water to catch fish that live or feed near the bottom. These bottom fish get high prices at market that make them very desirable to fishermen. Deep fishing is hard and strenuous. The equipment used is heavy and more complex than that of regular fishing. There are three basic ways of deep fishing - anchoring and chumming, bottom trolling and trawling. Each way uses a different approach and take certain special skill.

The equipment used to deep fish is basically the same as other fishing equipment. In deep fishing, though, the equipment has to be suited to fishing in the depths of the water. The line need to be stronger because the fish are stronger and larger. Instead of a pole, a hand reel is used. The hand reel is attached to the boat and reels in the line. The set up of deep fishing equipment starts with the mainline. The main line attaches to the hand reel and needs to be long enough to go the required depth. Attached to the mainline is the terminal rig. The terminal rig holds smaller line, called trace lines. These trace lines hold the hooks and bait. Some fisherman also attach a chum bucket to the terminal rig. A chum bucker contains ground up bait, called chum. Periodically this chum is released to attract fish. On the bottom of the line is the sinker. The sinker must be heavy enough to pull the line to the bottom. The most important part of deep fishing is the bait. It should be fresh and well attached to the hook. Try double-hooking (attaching the bait through two points with the hook) to ensure it doesn’t fall off. Because you are working at great depths, you need to make sure your bait will work good. All of this equipment will ensure you have a nice deep fishing experience.

The three basic types of deep fishing each use a certain method to attract to fish or catch the fish. Anchoring and chumming is a type of deep fishing that relies heavily on the use of a chum bucket. The chum bucket is the main source of bait. The fisherman anchors in one spot and then uses the periodic release of chum to catch fish. Bottom trolling uses a cannon ball as its tactic. The cannon ball is drug around the bottom where it stirs up mud and causes noise. This stirs up the fish, provoking them to bite the bait. Trawling is used to catch many fish at once. It involves a net with weights and wheels attached to it. This net rolls along the bottom and scoops up fish. Each type has its good points and bad points, but those are mainly based upon the fisherman’s goals. The method you chose to use for deep fishing is up to you.

Deep fishing takes skill and some preparation. Fishing at the bottom comes with its own problems. Fisherman do not want to keep pulling up their line to check bait or move to a different location. Planning the type of deep fishing is also important so you are prepared with the correct equipment. A little planning and patience will make for a good deep fishing experience.

Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.fishing-center.info a website specialized on Fishing, resources and articles. This site provides updated information on Fishing. For more info visit his site: Fishing

Tags: Fishing, Baits, Fishing Baits, Fishing Lures, Fishing trips