Wednesday, April 2, 2008

What lure to throw?

The following article is by Stephen Headrick, The Smallmouth Guru, courtesy of Bassmaster.com

5 Simple Questions

Since I started doing this column for Bassmaster.com, I've been getting a lot of e-mails asking some very interesting questions. Some of the questions are so thought provoking that I've turned them into columns. Others have been expecting a little too much from me.

For example, I've had several folks ask me what lures I'd throw if I was fishing this lake or that lake. The odds are pretty good that I've never even seen that body of water, much less fished it. So, rather than try to tell you what lure you ought to be throwing, I'm going to give you a list of five questions you should ask yourself every time you go fishing or think about lure selection.

1. What time of year is it? Think in terms of "bass seasons" — prespawn, spawn, postspawn, summer, fall and winter. How bass behave and where you'll find them depends more on this than anything else. As a result, it has a great deal to do with what lure you'll want to be using.

2. What is the water temperature? Since bass are cold-blooded, they're basically the same temperature as the water. Temperature will dictate whether you can use a fast moving spinnerbait or must stick with a slow moving jig. It also tells me what retrieve speed I can use.

3. What is the water color? Water color will help me decide on a lure color. I go with natural colors (most of the time) if it's clear, and I go with bright colors or black when it's dirty. I also look at light conditions and use the same guidelines.

4. Is there any wind? Conditions might be otherwise ideal for fishing a light jig, but if the wind is howling at 40 mph, there's no way I can feel it. I'll need to change to a heavier bait and probably one that can be effectively fished on a fast retrieve. Most of the time, of course, the wind isn't a determining factor, but when it blows you have to think about it.

5. What is the available forage? Most often, I want to mimic the same food that the bass are eating. If they're targeting shad, I want to use something that looks like a shad. If they want crawfish, I'll probably throw a dark jig or crankbait. I want my lure to fit into their environment and look like food. If you can answer these five questions, you can go a long way to figuring out just what you should be fishing with and why.

Until next time, if you have any questions or comments, I'd love to hear from you. Please e-mail me at Stephen@thesmallmouthguru.com

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

About fishing

"Of all the world's enjoyments that ever valued were, there's none of our employments with fishing can compare."

author: Thomas Durfee (or D'Urfey),

source: "Pills to Purge Melancholy-Massaniello" - Fisherman's Song

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Float and Fly for Brown Bass

The following article is by Stephen Headrick, The Smallmouth Guru, Courtesy of Bassmaster.com

Last week I wrote about my favorite smallmouth lure — the jig. This week, I want to tell you a little about one jig application that is near and dear to my heart and an absolutely deadly way to catch brown bass right now!

It's called the "float and fly," and if you've never tried it before, you're in for an absolute treat. Not only is it effective, but it's fun and will take you back to your earliest days of fishing.
For starters, let's clear up a couple of common misunderstandings involving the float and fly.
First of all, it's not a fly-fishing technique. You don't need a fly rod to do it, and you don't need to be able to fly cast. The "fly" in float and fly fishing is actually just a small hair jig. "Fly" is just the word we use in my part of the country (Tennessee) to describe a hair jig. It's been that way for as long as I can remember.

"Float," by the way, refers to the bobber or cork that suspends the jig and keeps it up off the bottom where the fish are at this time of year. It doesn't have anything to do with float fishing on a river or creek — though I love that style of fishing, too.

The rod you use for float and fly fishing is a long, spindly spinning rod with a very light action. You need that light action since you'll be using very light line — usually 4- to 8-pound-test fluorocarbon — running from the float to the jig. The perfect reel for float and fly action is a quality spinning reel with a very smooth drag. That comes in handy when you're fighting a big, strong fish on light line.

As you become more experienced with the technique, you may want to try backreeling instead of using the drag, but for beginners, the drag is definitely the way to go.
I mentioned the line going from the float to the jig because you'll want a different type and size of line that goes between the float and your reel. That's where I like one of the superlines like Fireline Crystal in about 8-pound test. It's strong and casts well, but also has a nice, small diameter.

Your main line (off your reel), your leader line (going down to the jig) and your float all meet up at a three-way swivel. You'll tie the two lines to one arm each of the swivel. Clip the float to the other arm. By the way, the length of line between the float and the jig depends upon how deep the fish are holding. With this sort of rig and a long spinning rod (8-10 feet), I can pretty easily handle a 15-foot leader. But I'm a tall guy with plenty of practice. You might be more comfortable with shorter leaders ... at least for a while.

Well, those are the nuts and bolts of the float and fly setup. It's a terrific technique for catching smallmouth (or any other bass) when the water temperature is at the mid 50s or below and the fish are suspended below schools of baitfish.

The technique — in one form or another — has been around for decades. Crappie fishermen have used it for a long time as a way to fish jigs for suspended panfish. A Tennessee angler named Charlie Nuckols first brought it to prominence in the bass fishing world almost 20 years ago. It still works.
If you'd like to actually see the float and fly in action, check out my new float and fly video at http://www.punisherlures.com/. You'll see all the elements in action and watch 5-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Charlie Campbell use it for the very first time on Table Rock Lake in Missouri.
Until next time, if you have any questions or comments, I'd love to hear from you. Please e-mail me at Stephen@thesmallmouthguru.com.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Other stuff away from Fly fishing

Let me introduce you to "Catanya" our African Congo Grey Parrot, he is an important part of our lives. He was imported from Texas along with me when I came over. He was hatched in Texas, actually just outside of Fort Worth, so he is a long way from "home" so to speak. He doesn't enjoy this cold weather in England, he would much prefer the warmer Texas weather. Maybe one day we shall return to Texas. I wanted to share this picture with you all today. I wanted to mention a site I just visited, http://www.ithinkthisworldisperfect.com/, about day-to-day stuff.

Monday, March 3, 2008

Bass Fishing Hall of Fame



HALL OF FAME INDUCTS ANGLERS.


A five-time Bassmaster Classic contender, Charlie Campbell of Forsythe, Missouri, is one of four men who were inducted Thursday into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. Campbell competed in 229 Bassmaster events from 1971 to 2002. He scored 27 top-20 finishes, including fifth place in the 1974 Classic. He’s also known for creating the Charlie Campbell CC Spinner Bait and contributing to the design of the first Bass Tracker Boats.


Three other pioneers of the sport will be inducted posthumously, including Nick Creme, who with his brother invented the first soft-plastic worm and founded Creme Lure Co. in Texas. Lure inventor and TV show host Virgil Ward of Missouri also will be inducted, as will Elwood Lake "Buck" Perry, the North Carolina angler widely acclaimed as being "the father of structure fishing."


The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization based in Hot Springs, Ark.


courtesy Fishing World.com

Fly-fishing Hall of Fame

Ed Rice, the renowned angler and sports promoter from Northern California, was inducted into the Flyfishing Hall of Fame last week by the Federation of Flyfishers at a banquet in Pleasanton.
Rice recounted how he grew up fishing and hunting in the foothills near Chico and how, by his 20s, he'd wake up with the yearning to venture to the world's best fly-fishing spots. "That feeling never stopped," he said.

His travels in the 40 years since have taken him across North America - including 88 different weeks in Alaska - 40 countries and six continents. Rice has caught more species of fish on a fly rod - more than 200 - than anyone in the world, and is the only fly fisher to catch the grand slam of the Caribbean: tarpon, bonefish and permit, twice in a three-day span.
Rice is also the founder of the International Sportsmen's Exposition, which started in San Mateo and became the blueprint for successful outdoor shows across America. Rice is believed to be the only promoter in America to donate booth space to conservation groups. He was a charter inductee into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame in 2003.

Courtesy Google news UK

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Testing fish for Mercury

Idaho Fish Consumption Advisory Program

You can't see, smell or taste the mercury or other contaminants in fish. That's why it's important to know which fish are safer than others to eat. The Idaho Fish Consumption Advisory Program (IFCAP), created in 2001, informs Idahoans about possible contamination of lakes and rivers and other water bodies - contamination that may affect fish and the humans who eat the fish. By testing fish tissue samples for contaminants, IFCAP is able to advise the public about safe consumption of fish from Idaho water bodies. When contaminant levels are unsafe, IFCAP may recommend that people limit or avoid eating certain species of fish caught in certain places. IFCAP does this by issuing a Fish Advisory.
What does a Fish Advisory mean to me?

A fish advisory means that you should be aware of the amount of certain types of fish you should eat. A fish advisory doesn't mean that you should stop fishing in a favorite lake or river. Idaho fish are an excellent source of good nutrition. We encourage you to keep fishing and continue enjoying healthy meals.

courtesy IFCAP

WackyBass on Hit and Run for Bass

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

WackyBass on Hit and Run for Bass
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I found a site that I am sure you guys will enjoy, Fishing.US, along with this post by WackyBass, check this out.



Hit And Run For BassBy WackyBass at Fri, 2008-02-08 12:39 Bass FishingFor the past 33 years I have been on the lookout for an all around bass lure that can be used in the hundreds of ponds, park district and forest preserve lakes that surround my urban world called the Chicago land area and I have found it. I needed a bass lure that would be suitable for just about any bank fishing situation and one that can be carried in my pocket if need be.My current fast paced lifestyle forces me to be selective in the amount of time that can be dedicated to my favorite hobby and past time, bass fishing. When I see a new body of water I pull over, grab my medium action spinning rod that is rigged with a rabbit hair wacky worm, and cast for 15 minutes or so. When I am on the road whether doing errands or on business, I have a great opportunity to explore new places, possibly catch a bass at a new fishing hole close to home. No matter the time of year (excluding winter); I make my first cast parallel to the shore, no more than 3 feet out. I gradually work my casts further and further from shore until I get that first strike. After the first bass is landed and released, I concentrate on the same distance from shore, still working the lure so it moves parallel to the shoreline. After 15 minutes is up I get a firm understanding of the quality of fishing spot it is, and what my next planned trip will entail.The trick to this “hit and run” largemouth bass fishing tactic for busy people can only be successful if you are prepared at all times and you travel light. Traveling light means that you have a medium action rod with a spinning reel and a plastic, slow sinking lure such as a rabbit hair wacky worm already tied on ready to go. It is important to have a slow sinking lure since most park district or forest preserve bodies of water are rather shallow and full of vegetation, near the very mucky bottom. If you used a diving or heavy lure such as a crankbait, you will spend the majority of your fifteen minutes removing algae, weeds and other debris from your lure. The slow sinking rabbit hair wacky worm will sink and find the proper depth for you. You will enjoy yourself immensely and have a much better chance of success if your lure is spends a majority of its time fishing rather than snagging.It can be extremely challenging finding the time to do some quality bank fishing let alone catch some fish with your favorite bass fishing lure, but with a little time management and planning, you will find that there is way to hit and run for bass.



courtesy of Fishing.US


Posted by Spencek at

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Ham & Sweet Potato Foil packs

Cube ham and sweet potatoes, combine with 1/2 cubed apple. Place in foil pack, make sure the edges are sealed tight. Place on hot coals for 1/2 hour, turning every 15 minutes. Apples give moisture to the recipe instead of butter and it adds sweetness. This amount feeds 1 - 2 people, double recipe for more people. Preparation time approximately 5 - 30 minutes.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Bass Federation Nation Youth Magazine, Bassmaster.com


Labels:
February 13, 2008


Rhode Island Renaissance BASS Federation Nation Youth Senior Manager Stacy Twiggs,author


Aside from those die-hard ice fisherman, most of us thin-blooded bass fisherman are grinding our teeth into tiny Chiclets® as we eagerly await the approaching fishing season. The promise of warmer weather and giant bass has every serious bass fisherman chomping at the bit and slobbering over some new secret gizmo bait or unexploited fishing technique. The season of snow leaves plenty of time to prep for the promise of spring, but it's also the most popular time for state BASS Federation Nations to host their annual awards banquets and general membership meeting. My recent trip to the smallest state in the country revealed a spirit bigger than the Montana sky.

The Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation annual awards banquet has flourished over the years and become a fine example of the BFN founding principles. A collaborative effort designed to unite their members brings together adult and youth for a special combined awards banquet. Both adult and junior state teams come together to celebrate the past year's accomplishments complete with award presentations and enough pictures to keep Kodak busy until next year's banquet.

Imagine a large group of peers applauding a select team of adult anglers being presented with awards and confirmation of their upcoming trip to the BFN Divisional. Now take a moment to envision the same room interspersed with Junior Bassmasters, fully complemented with decorated jerseys and cheering for their adult mentors. Twenty minutes later, when the roles were reversed, every person in the banquet hall was standing with applause equally flattering for the Junior Bassmasters receiving their awards.

The principle behind a combined banquet is a noble mark of respect for both the adult and youth programs, but it's also a tribute to their goal of integrating their two programs together to the best of their ability. To see the Rhode Island adult state team members along with other adults show the same admiration for their young anglers was an extremely gratifying experience.In addition to recognizing youth and adult state teams, they honored Rod Hammond with one of the greatest distinctions any BASS member can earn. After reading through a long list of accomplishments they presented Mr. Hammond with the Rhode Island BFN Sportsman of the Year Award. The Northern Rhode Island BASS Anglers were also recognized as Team Club Champions. The club competed the weekend after Independence Day with 8 anglers (4 boaters and 4 non-boaters) competing in a team format where all 8 weights combined together to determine the Team Club Champions. In a theme consistent with the spirit of the Rhode Island BFN, Junior Bassmaster clubs can also team up with their adult sponsoring club to compete in the same event.

This was the second year the state conducted a joint banquet. "The event represents a special opportunity to show appreciation for the people who roll their sleeves up and make things happen within the state," said Roy Costa, Rhode Island BFN president. "There's no way we can possibly thank everyone, but their contributions and support are never taken for granted."The adult and junior state teams help set up the banquet, hang banners and conduct various fund raisers. Raffle proceeds from the banquet raise money to help support the adult state team as they advance to divisional competition. On the youth side, proceeds go toward funding an entire year's worth of activities, events and awards. "We're very thankful and proud of the support the adults provide to the youth program and their support as boat captains for our events," said Mike Broggi, Rhode Island BFN Youth Director. Looking across the room, I recognized a familiar face and past Bassmaster Classic qualifier, Joel St. Germain. Bearing the same smile he always has, you could see his support for the youth. He graciously shared products from his personal sponsorships, contributing what he could to the entire Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation. "He's been an unbelievable supporter of the organization and is always willing to contribute," said Costa.The Rhode Island BFN has worked tirelessly to integrate the youth and adult programs. Broggi is extremely gracious for the overwhelming adult support of the state youth efforts. "Fundraisers like the annual awards banquet help the Rhode Island Junior Bassmaster program fund its annual activities without leaning on the adult treasury," said Broggi.

As I prepared to head back for Florida, Costa proudly reminded me of how special the past year had been. "It's been a great year for the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation! We hosted the 2007 Eastern Divisional, and the state team stepped up to make it a successful event for all the Eastern Division states in attendance. The team helped coordinate, organize and step up wherever needed.

One glimpse of the Rhode Island BASS Federation Nation and you know that the next 35 years of this grassroots organization is in prepared and well-groomed hands.
Article from Bassmaster.com
Posted by Spencek at 10:07 AM

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Want to prospect for diamonds?

Arkansas, The Natural State, is blessed with an abundance of geological wonders. Arkansas has the only diamond-producing site in the world open to the public, i.e. The Crater of Diamonds State Park, for a one-of-a-kind experience.

The public is invited to prospect in the park's diamond search area, a 37-acre plowed field that is the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic pipe that 95 million years ago, brought to the surface the diamonds and some of the semi-precious stones lucky visitors find here today. In The Crater of Diamonds State Park, diamonds of all colors of the rainbow can be found, but the three most common colors found by park visitors are white, brown, and yellow. Over 40 types of rocks and minerals can also be found, including lamproite, amethyst, banded agate, jasper, peridot, garnet, quartz, calcite, barite and hematite. The park staff will help you identify your finds for you, and the policy of "finders keepers" applies to all, regardless of the value. For digging in the soil, prospecting for some diamonds, you should bring a shovel, or spade, a 5-gallon bucket and a small box screen. These items are also available to rent at the park.

Many remnants of old mining ventures remain, including the Mine Shaft Building, the Guard House, mining plant foundations, old mining equipment and smaller artifacts. Nowhere else is North American diamond mining history as evident or as well preserved as here.

There are hundreds of acres of natural forest with an abundance of flora and fauna and offers visitors interesting things to do in the area. Of course, fishing for trout is one of the main attractions Arkansas has to offer, when you are not diamond hunting.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

South Fork of the Snake River


South Fork Lodge in eastern Idaho was built by Mark Rockefeller and is destined to become a world-class fly-fishing resort. It consists of a uniquely designed main lodge, spacious accommodations, an extensive fly shop and guide service. An exclusive restaurant looking out over the waters of the Snake River, is also included in this retreat.
The South Fork and Henry's Fork of the Snake River are considered by many to be two of the best trout streams in the American West. Float or wade these rivers to fish for trophy trout. Native cutthroat thrive in these waters as well as Brown Trout with an average of 4 to 10 pounds.
For the beginner fisherman, guides are available, with the knowledge of fly fishing and boating skills necessary for a successful and enjoyable retreat to the great outdoors of this area.

Sunday, January 6, 2008

How about fly fishing in Northern Spain


For the fly fishermen there is a beautiful place in Northern Spain, along the Mino, Labra, and Tamoga Rivers. With Brown trout plentiful, you will be fishing with Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and Storks. More wild life abounds here including deer and wild boar. For further information visit www.flyfishinggalicia.co.uk/