Tuesday, June 4, 2013

How To: Catch a Bass


1. Pick the right time.

     1.1 Early mornings and late evenings are usually the best time to fish for bass.
           Bass are generally most active during these periods of the day.

     1.2 If you can, plan your fishing trip around a full moon. Bass are thought to 
           become more active a few days before, during, and after a full moon. 


2. Use the proper equipment.

     1.1 Making sure you use the proper tackle for the specific type of fishing you are 
           doing is key. For example, if you plan on fishing heavy cover such as grass 
           and lily pads, you may want to use a heavy line such as braid (shown below).



     1.2 If you plan on using lures out in open water you may want to use fluorocarbon
           or monofilament fishing line. 

                                                   

3. Use a map.

     1.1 Using a map or GPS to study the body of water you are going to fish can help
           tremendously. Look for points (a point is a piece of land that stretches out into
           the water), weeds, lily pads, docks, boats, or any other type of structure that could
           serve as an ambush point for a hungry bass. 

   
                                                                                    

     1.2 Ask a local or park ranger about areas that could produce a quality bass.


4. Have patience and proper technique.

     1.1 It is easy to lose your patience when the fish aren’t biting. Remember to stay calm
           and enjoy what you are doing. When we become impatient or frustrated we often
           miss the signs the fish may be sending or not paying attention to our technique.

     1.2 It is important to remember that when using artificial baits and lures, we are almost
           like puppeteers. We have to make the lure seem lifelike and real. While simply casting
           out a bait and reeling it in may result in catching a few, it certainly will not fill your
           boat!


5. Have fun and enjoy the great outdoors!