Fishing Fun

"Noodling" : Cooking Pasta or Catching Catfish?

2010-04-03T20:25:00.001-07:00

“Noodling” conjures up images of standing over a vat of boiling water, cooking some kind of Italian pasta to perfection. This may be one definition of the term, but in reference to one of the oddest fishing styles known, it refers to the art of fishing for catfish using only bare hands and a big stick for prodding purposes. That is correct; using only your bare hands to feel your way along the mud-caked bottom of a river in search of a catfish is called noodling. Better still, these catfish can weigh an awful lot.

Noodling, also referred to as grabbling, is legal only in certain states and was practiced by Native Americans long before the settlement of Europeans. To experience noodling you must plan a trip south to Arkansas, North Carolina or Mississippi. During the Depression, it was rumored grabbling became popular as a rapid and inexpensive manner of providing food for the family. Today, grabbling as a means of fishing for flathead, channel and blue catfish is mainly for entertainment, as most grabblers practice catch-and-release.

From late May to July, when the days lengthen and water temperatures become warmer, catfish seek out shallow water to lay their eggs. Sheltered secluded locations are preferred such as boat ramps, holes in rocks and sandbanks. Once the female catfish lays her eggs, she departs the nest, leaving the male catfish to guard the eggs and keep them aerated. The male will not leave the nest until the baby catfish are ready to leave as well. Catfish are very aggressive during spawning season. For this reason, care must be taken to avoid becoming victim to that aggression when noodling.

Locate bedding catfish by running your bare hands along the river bottom in search of an opening. For a bottom-feeding fish, the catfish is rather clean and delicate. Openings are easy to find because the catfish will continue to clear its home and area. Some experienced grabblers plan their trips during the winter when water levels are low, where it is possible to see potential hideaways that will soon be submerged. They then return to these locations during spawning season.

An angry growling sound, described by some as a “thump”, lets you know you have located your prey. Submerging yourself is required for a good portion of the grabbling expedition; clearly, the longer you are able to hold your breath, the easier it is to grabble. Once a spawning location has been identified, use a big stick to guide the catfish out of the nest to within arms reach.

Now knowing where your prey is, place your hand with outstretched fingers into the hole. The catfish will quickly become angered at your intrusion and will strike out, either hitting your hand or grabbing your hand while biting it with its mouth. He may clamp on to your hand and attempt to pull you into the hole, hence the need for additional assistance when attempting grabbling. Once he bites, grab him with both hands on his lower jaw, wrap your legs around him if necessary and pull him completely out of the water. Twisting and rolling is sure to ensue, but perseverance will ensure your victory.

Clearly, “noodling” is not an experience everyone will enjoy, least of all those who are faint at heart, and injury is always a possibility. For some, the pasta-cooking scenario may be much more preferable. But for a “hands-on” fishing experience that anyone from the young to the elderly can delight in, there is nothing quite comparable. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Fishing with GPS

2010-02-27T18:15:00.001-08:00

A GPS is a Global Positioning System that is made primarily for navigational purposes. They work off a network of satellites that are placed into orbit by the United States Government. The best part about a GPS system is that because they operate off satellite, they can be used in any weather conditions at any hour of the day.

The satellites will circle the earth twice during the day and transmit signal information to Earth. The signals can then be used to calculate the user’s exact location by implementing triangulation and pinpointing exact spots. Triangulation means that the GPS receiver must be locked into three spots before a calculation of longitude and latitude can be displayed. After the satellites have mapped the location, the GPS can narrow in on other satellites for useful information such as speed, track, trip distance, destination distance and sunrise or sunset times.

The accuracy of the GPS system is very acute because of the multi-channel designs that are available. A GPS will lock onto a satellite and maintain that lock through one of their channels. A GPS fish finder is accurate up to fifteen meters while the newer models increase in accuracy up to three meters.

There are many benefits to investing in a GPS and people are using GPS more regularly and relying on them more than the more traditional ways of navigation such as maps and charts. If you have plot points that you have saved on a GPS, you may be able to save time and frustration on the open seas by going directly to the location that had the fish the last time you went out. Another advantage to the GPS is that it can detect hot fishing spots that may not be detected by older maps or charts. In addition, if you find a perfect fishing spot, you can share it with a friend when you go fishing on another boat.

GPS systems are also a great safety tool when you are out on the water. Many times, especially if there are many people socializing on a boat, it can be easy to lose concentration. People will easily be turned around or lost and a GPS is an easy tool to use to find your way back home. You can also use a GPS system if there is unexpected bad weather such as fog or heavy rain. GPS systems are also equipped with mapping software that makes it easier to find a dock. The GPS is so accurate that it is able to communicate exact positions to the Coast Guard or rescue crew if an emergency arises.

You can purchase a handheld GPS online or at your local marine or boating store. Ask a salesperson to help explain the different features and costs for the varying models. If you decide to purchase your boat from a dealer, you will need a built-in GPS. Your local boat supplier will be able to give you a reference to someone who can properly install your electronics.

You should never rely on just one navigation tool when you are fishing. A GPS seems to cover all of the bases, but it is still a computerized tool. You should always be proactive about your safety and always have marine maps and charts onboard at all times. You should also have a handheld radio handy in case of emergencies.

Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Fish Identification Guide ...By Scotts' Bait and Tackle

2010-01-02T17:26:00.001-08:00

(A) Albacore Amberjack, Greater Anchovy Atlantic Croaker Atlantic Cutlass Atlantic Moonfish	(B) Ballyhoo Banded Rudderfish Bass, Large mouth Bass, Small mouth Bass, Striped Black Crappie Black Drum Blackfish Blenny, Striped Blowfish Bluefish Bonito/a Bunker Burrfish Butterfish Brook Trout
(C) Catfish Cigar (Lizardfish) Cobia Codfish Cownose Ray** Crevalle Jack Croaker,Atlantic Cutlass, Atlantic	(D) Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) Drum, Black Drum, Red
(E) Eelpout Eel, American Eel, Cusk	(F) Filefish, Orange Flounder, Winter Flounder, Summer (Fluke) Florida Pompano **
(G) Grunt, Pigfish**	(H) Herring, Atlantic Herring, Atlantic Thread Hogchoker
(I)	(J) Jack, Greater Amber Jack, Crevalle
(K) Killifish, Striped/Minnows Kingfish	(L) Lizardfish (Cigar)
(M) Mackerel Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin) Menhaden (Bunker) Minnows Monkfish Musky (Muskellunge) Mummichugs	(N) Northern Puffer
(O) Oyster Cracker	(P) Perch, Yellow Perch, White## Pickerel, Chain Pickerel, Red Pigfish, Grunt Poorman's Lobster (Monkfish) Pompano, Florida Porgy (Scup) Puffer, Burrfish Puffer, Northern
(Q)	(R) Ray, Cownose** Rudderfish, Banded
(S) (Scup), Porgy Sea Bass, Black Searobin Shark, Brown Shark, Spiny Dog Shark, Thresher Shark, Mako Sharksucker Spearing Spiney Boxfish (Burrfish) Spot Stargazer Striped Bass (Striper) Striped Blenny	(T) Tautog Triggerfish Trout, Brook Tuna Type, Bonito/a Tuna, Bluefin Tuna, Longfin (Albacore) Tuna, Yellowfin Tunny, Little
(U)	(V)
(W) Wahoo Weakfish White Perch## **Wreckfish	(X)
(Y) Yellowfin Tuna Yellow Perch	(Z)

Catch and Release Fishing

2010-01-02T17:04:00.001-08:00

The best place to start is with the hooks. A fish that has a hole through its mouth is going to be more likely to survive than a fish with a hole in its lung or gill. If you happen to hook a fish in the gut, the best thing to do is to cut off the hook as much as you can then release the fish. Many times the hook will dissolve and the fish will spit it out, but they can also live with a rusted hook hanging from them. Whatever you do, do not tug on your line to pull a hook out or you will severely hurt the fish. If you are able to easily remove the hook, use a pair of needle nose pliers. The process of pulling the hook out is easier if you remove the barbs from the hooks, but try not to wiggle while you pull the hook out.

Fish are obviously unable to survive outside of the water. Therefore, the longer that it takes you to release them, the more it becomes as if you are suffocating them. The way that a fish is gripped when out of the water will make a big difference. For instance, avoid touch a fish’s body with your bare hands. The fish have a slimy protective coat that will be stripped if you touch them with your hands. If you have to touch a fish, make sure that your hands are wet. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts or permeating fish smells.

Part of the fun in fishing is to “play out” the fish. The struggle can be what some anglers wait all day to do. Fish are like humans; when they “work out,” they build up lactic acid. When you are fighting a fish, they are fighting too. Just like when someone works his or her body out and it feels sore, a fish experiences the same thing. The build up of lactic acid can be toxic to a fish even days later. Therefore, if you are going to practice catch and release, try to keep the struggle to a minimum.

Try not to let a fish flop around when you catch them. A fish that flops around can bruise or damage its internal organs, causing them to die later from the injuries that are incurred. You can also revive a fish if you need to do so. A fish is likely to run out of oxygen and pass out, so to speak. In order to revive a fish, you place the fish in the water with their belly down and gently grasp their tail. Start to slowly move their tail back and forth until they give you the signal that they are ready to take off into the water. Sometimes you will need to repeat the process more than once, but don’t let a fish go until they are ready. A fish that is not ready to swim could get carried away and swept into rocks or embankment and cause serious injury.

More than anything, when you are practicing catch and release, have everything ready to go. Make sure that your camera, pliers, and gloves are in reaching distance. Try to take the precautions necessary to preserve fish and one of America’s favorite pastimes.

Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Christmas Gifts for the Fishing Enthusiast

2009-11-27T06:35:00.000-08:00

With Christmas coming up we all need to start thinking about getting gifts for our loved ones. Well, if you know a fishing enthusiast, then this article should help you choosing a present they will love. Having the right fishing equipment to fall back on brings us anglers a lot of joy.

Many anglers fish from a boat and this might be your main concern at first when you are deciding on a gift. The preferred method is a small row boat with a small outboard motor because a fisherman can actually stand in one of these when he wants to cast. Although it is best to row to the spot where you intend to fish, a small trolling motor is handy for traveling some distances. Big lakes are often best fished with a slightly larger vessel with higher sides as inland waters can also become choppy given half a chance when the weather turns rough. If you have a large budget then these can be great gifts for a fisherman at Christmas.

The right type of footwear is an important part of fishing equipment, especially when you are standing by the side of any lake. What anglers really need is a pair of hip boots because the great thing about these is they can be rolled down when you are not in the water. Many fishermen use hip boots all the time but if you are entering the water a great deal, then hip or chest waders are really better at the job of keeping you dry. These are best purchased so they are a comfortable fit bordering on the loose because tight fitting waders will have more strain placed on the seams and could leak when used for extended periods. Another great gift idea!

Of course you can guarantee if you don''t have a waterproof jacket with you it will rain heavily and these are available in long and short versions generally an an essential piece of fishing equipment. Wading through shallow water or while fishing from a boat would necessarily require a long jacket. Of course the opposite is true if you intend to wade up to your chest level where a shorter jacket is the order of the day. If you wear a jacket with lots of pocket, you find it very useful when you have to put away some lure or other pieces of small fishing equipment. Carry a hat with a visor as staring into the water might hurt your eyes and you need some protection. Jackets can be expensive, but again, any angler would love to receive one as a Christmas gift.

Something, which every angler needs include: the three stashes of lure and tackle box containers and these are for home stockpile, for the boat and the last is for the car. This provides protection against any loss or in the event of any mishap. Getting all your fishing supplies in huge quantities towards the start of the season is a wise idea as this keeps you ready for fishing at night. These types of things are a little lighter on the pocket and may be more suitable if you are buying gifts on a budget.

There is nothing wrong with spending time to obtain the correct fishing equipment if the recipient of your gift takes this pastime or sport seriously. The last thing they want is to be frustrated on a good catch because their equipment lets them down or they just don''t have the right gear to handle the catch with. Just like the boy scouts - they need to be prepared which help you overcome any situation and make the fishing more enjoyable.

Another simple gift idea is a ready made gift basket. These can be found online, or simply made. Product reviews and shipping times can usually be found at online sites. Two great sites are http://www.GiftGivingExpress.com and http:// www.ChoiceOnlineBaskets.com....where you enter in "fishing baskets" in the search and get several ideas.

Armed with this, try to get good quality fishing gear when you are gift shopping. It will be highly appreciated and there is something to suit every budget!

A Deep Sea Fishing Family Guide

2009-11-14T09:25:00.000-08:00

Deep sea fishing is one great activity that
a lot of families enjoy. It’s something that
can give you and your family momentous
experiences and priceless memories that can last for a lifetime.
The family bonding experience with nature at hand is simply

indescribable.

If you’re new to this sport and wonderful past time,

there are some things that you should know before you

go on with your deep sea fishing trip. It is indeed

one big adventure for you and your family. However,

you should consider some things first to make your

trip a successful one. Other than not forgetting to

bring your camera, for those momentous snapshots, here

are some things that you have to think about before

even making some plans.

Judgment Time: Are They Capable?

First off, you should take a realistic look at your

family’s abilities and age. Let’s face it, you can’t

really maximize a deep sea fishing trip if you’re kids

are still infants or toddlers. If you’re deciding on

what kind of excursion to have, deliberating on these

kinds of factors are important too.

In case you’ll be getting the service of a charter

boat, this would play an important factor too, since

most boat companies have set age limits. Generally,

age limits start at about eight years old. You should

understand that companies set these kinds of rules to

guarantee safety on your part.

Additionally, you should consider the duration of how

long you’d want to be on water. Most inexperienced

fishermen would usually prefer half-day trips, so that

it wouldn’t be that stressful and still be enjoyable

for the whole family. On the other hand, lifelong and

expert anglers would definitely want to have overnight

trips. However, regardless of how long or short you

have been fishing, you should still remember your

family’s physical comfort would affect the trip’s

overall enjoyment. Factors such as attitude and age

play important roles on how can your family adjust

with a temporary boat life.

Be Distance Conscious

Another important consideration is how far away your

target fishing location is from your home. The

packages that you may encounter can vary greatly,

depending on the company. This means the provisions

that they’ll give to you on the boat would also

differ. If you will be travelling a huge distance just

to fish, you might be more interested in availing

packages that are all inclusive, which provides you

with everything you’d need for the trip.

However, packages like these are usually hard to find,

and of course, they are way more expensive than those

for average day trip packages. An average package

usually provides you bait and tackle. But if you’ll

need a license, some packages already include it,

while some can charge you extra for the cost.

Know The Terms

Generally, boats would ask you to bring your own hats,

sunglasses, clothing, sun block, medications for

motion sickness and everything else that you think is

important to bring. Make sure that you are clothed

appropriately with a number of warm layers, since it

would be colder when you’re on water than being on

shore.

Also, most of the day trip packages would ask you to

bring your own food. If this is the case, you should

plan accordingly. Try to pack items that are easy on

your stomach, just in case that waters will be rough.

Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Alaska Fishing

2009-11-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Fishing: Jewels of the Water

Think king salmon. Picture enormous halibut. Alaska Fishing is unlike anywhere else-you'll throw back fish up here that would be trophies elsewhere. It's easy, affordable, and takes only a few hours. With 34,000 miles of coastline and countless pristine lakes and rivers, Alaska fishing is something you can fit in anywhere on your itinerary.

Are you someone who's never fished before? A serious angler wanting a week at an exclusive backcountry fishing lodge? A casual caster after a day of reeling on your own? No matter what your interest, Halibut, Salmon, remote Alaska fishing lodges for your dream Alaska vacation, we'll show you how and where to do it. Let's go fishing.

You'll likely be going after the Big Two: salmon and halibut. The five species of salmon range from pan-size to nearly 100 pounds, while halibut can weigh hundreds of pounds. Getting your catch home may be easier than reeling it in: most charters offer filleting, freezing and shipping. Those charters may be on the wide open ocean (which can be a bumpy ride) or a river. Either way you won't need experience or equipment: top-flight guides offer up all the tackle and instruction you need.

Alaska guides vastly simplify your logistics and halve the time it takes to catch a fish. But they're not required. If you have initiative and good timing, you can rent a rod and reel and find great fishing as close as downtown Anchorage! Urban fishing usually means bumping elbows with other anglers, though. If it's your dream to fish in the middle of nowhere, consider a fly-in trip, which gets you beyond the reach of roads and most other anglers. You may even share a wilderness stream with bears and eagles.

Care And Repair Of Fishing Lures

2009-10-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

By: Make Your Own Fishing Lures

Making fishing lures may be easy for the seasoned do-it-yourself angler. But the maintenance of these lures is just as important to ensure a tip-top condition.After buying or making the fishing lures there is still the responsibility of taking care of and repairing them so that they are always in good condition. This requires some effort and time but is usually easy for the angler who makes his own fishing lures.
Since he makes them and puts them together, he also knows how to take them apart and repair them. He also has the tools and fishing lure parts necessary for such work. All the tools required to assemble the parts and make the lures are explained on this page at http://www.make-your-own-fishing-lures.com/hand-tools.html .

Fishing lures in general do not require much care when storing them in a home or shop. The best idea is to put them into cabinet drawers or individual boxes so that they can be found easily and can be kept dry. In humid climates or near the seashore it is important not to expose the metal parts to the air; otherwise, hooks will rust and other metals will corrode.
Fishing lures that have feathers or hair should be kept in airtight containers so that moths and other insects or small animals will not get to them. This also applies to new fishing lures that haven't yet been used. Lures which have been used require considerable care if you want to get the maximum use from them. Freshwater fishing lures usually require less care and repair than saltwater ones.

In general, when examining any fishing lure you have made or bought it's a wise policy to repair it if you are the least bit doubtful about its condition. Repairing usually means sandpapering the part of the lure body that is slightly chipped and then touching up with a small brush, using enamels or lacquers.

Replace the hooks with new ones if they are badly rusted. When doing this it is important to use the same size and weight as the old ones so that the action of the fishing lure is not changed in any way. If the damage is too bad and the lure cannot be repaired, throw it away after salvaging any usable parts.

It doesn't pay to take chances with a fishing lure that is weak in any way. You may hook a record fish but lose it if the lure is not dependable. Many anglers who buy their fishing lures in tackle stores often use them until they fall apart, before buying new ones. But if you make your own fishing lures you can afford to use only those that are still in good condition.
It is better to be safe than sorry.
------------------------------------------------------
Keith Lee is a practical, do-it-yourself angler and owns Make-Your-Own-Fishing-Lures.com , an info-packed website on making fishing lures. Learn how to make high-quality fishing lures at http://www.make-your-own-fishing-lures.com and use it as your trusted guide on home made fishing lures.

Bass Fishing

2009-10-24T19:29:00.001-07:00

Bass fishing is one of the most common types of fishing. Many bass fish are found in bayou water and salt water. They also move through lakes, ponds, reservoirs and streams. If you know the basics regarding conditions and places where bass are likely to be, you will have more success when you fish for them.

Many variables change the location of bass, such as water conditions, water levels, weather, and light and food availability. There are three main elements that must be present in a body of water in order for bass to survive: Food, oxygen, and cover.

A bass’ favorite meal is crawfish, which they prefer over shad. Basically, crawfish are usually more plentiful and they are easy for the Bass to catch. However, a bass will typically eat anything from rats, mice, ducklings, frogs, snakes, salamanders, worms, lizards, grubs, baitfish, insects, and leeches. Their ability to feast on one thing above another is why many people find such enjoyment from fishing bass.

Oxygen is another key component in finding bass fish. The basic rule of thumb is that the cooler the water, the more oxygen content. Therefore, if you are fishing in the spring, summer or early fall, you will find that the larger bass will drop down lower to find the cooler and more oxygen-filled water. They will also swim to find areas that are more concentrated in vegetation in order to find a better oxygen source. Trees, stumps, wind-blown banks, and power plants are all good sources of oxygen that will attract bass fish.

A bass relies on cover for a means of protection and way of ambush. Cover is part of a bass’ survival. The bass is known as a lazy fish, so they will hide and wait for their prey to come to them. The other reason for cover is that bass fish do not have eyelids and the cover is a way to prevent blindness. Some common cover areas to find bass in are around fabricated wood structures such as fencerows, docks, and pilings. They have been known to hide under floating pieces of wood or decaying wood. Weeds are the second best place to hunt for bass. Finally, rocks are the third place that bass will find cover. Rocks are not as reliable as weeds or wood, but sometimes a bass will find decaying pieces of food to feast on within some rocks. Remember that rocks do not produce oxygen, so the source is not as consistent.

When it comes to fishing, everyone has a different opinion. You will often find that these opinions range in location and source. However, there are some lures and baits that are recommended for bass fishing that may be useful if you haven’t tried them. Tequila colored 7-inch worms with added scent are recommended, as well as Rebel Wee-Rs. Hellgrammites are thought to be the best live bait, and many will say that you don’t need big lures to attract big bass. Everyone will tell you to tie up to an embankment, or find a dock to get close to, but it is really an art that could take years to perfect.

Bass are notorious for slow moving and lack of distance in their movements. Logically, you could sit 30 feet from the biggest bass of your life, and he is not going to swim to your bait out of pure laziness. Finding the exact spot is difficult and a lot of fishing has to do with luck. The only part that you can control is finding the most likely places that a bass may be and exercise some patience. Weather is important to bass as well. If it is a cloudy day, you might have more luck than on a hot summer day. However, overcast is probably ideal for water temperatures, but then you have to decide what you are willing to sit through in order to catch a fish. The bottom line with bass fishing is you can only do your best with the knowledge at hand. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Surf Fishing

2009-10-16T21:05:00.001-07:00

Surf fishing might look like a great deal of calm and easy fun. Some people make it seem easy, but surf fishing is a lot harder than you may think. There are many calculations that you have to make in order to have a successful day like the wind, the current, wave height, floating kelp, and the positioning of the rocks. All of that information needs to be calculated in before you can cast your line and get started.

The first thing that you need to do before you attempt surf fishing is to prepare ahead of time. Most places will require you to have a fishing license. If you get caught without one, the fine will more than ruin your mood.

You will need to find out as much information as possible about the best times to go surf fishing. The best time to go surf fishing is high tide, before all of the beachgoers that scare fish come to the beach. You will need to learn to develop a great deal of patience when you go surf fishing, so bring lots of bait and get ready to settle in for the day.

You do not need to buy a special type of rod to surf fish. The rod that you use should be determined on how well you cast. When deciding how well you cast, be realistic about what you can accomplish so that you can catch the maximum of fish that you want. The advantage to a shorter rod is that it allows you to be more mobile so that you can continuously move from spot to spot. You do not necessarily need to cast out very far because the fish are usually swimming just at the break line feasting on dead and decaying matter.

If you can find them, sand crabs will be your best bait for surf fishing. If you are surfing in the summer, you can find the deep holes that they have dug into the sand and fish them out. Many times, you can find them washed up on the beach, and this is fine because the fish will swim to the surface to catch anything dead or alive. If you are all out of crabs, you can use frozen anchovies, salted anchovies, shrimp, mussels, or some clams.

Make sure that your bait is somewhat firm, otherwise it may slide right off of your hook. For a rig, you will need something that is capable of sinking the line without putting undue pressure on it. The fish can be scared off if they can feel the weight on the line. Many people will use a sliding sinker rig when they surf fish.

There are many good reasons to consider going for a day of surf fishing. You can catch perch, corbina, stingrays, bass, rockfish, and sometimes even hammerhead sharks. It is also a good way to spend a day at the beach. However, if you decide to fish when there are many beachgoers, try to find a spot where there are not many people in the water. Many times surf fishing will attract sharks and they will swim right up to the shore for fresh food. Unfortunately, sharks do not see very well and they will oftentimes mistake surfers for tortoises or fish because of their legs hanging off the wooden board.

If you do not have the money or the time to invest in a boat, surf fishing is a way that you can see the benefits of the catch and save a little time also. There are some extra preparation plans that you have to account for when surf fishing, but you would have much more prep and cleanup on a large boat. Surf fishing is an enjoyable hobby that will get you out of the house and maybe even offer up a chance to come home with fresh dinner. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Penn Fishing Rods And Reels

2009-10-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

Penn international was founded in 1932 and it has been offering world class products in fishing ever since. And one of the trademarks of Penn is the Penn fishing rods. Penn fishing rods has set a standard which every angler swears by. Each rod blank is so meticulously selected so as to serve a specific purpose, creating a finely balanced rod catering to every style of fishing. When you see the label Penn on a fishing rod, you can be sure it is going to be sturdy and reliable. And one of the most durable Penn fishing rods are the Penn Slammer rods. Penn Slammer rods have recently been redesigned, both functionally as well as aesthetically.

The white colored heavy walled glass blank has been done away with for a charcoal colored lightweight glass blank. That’s not all, the new Slammer rods are more user friendly with the tapered bank providing improved leverage and better fish fighting abilities. Altogether, the Slammer rods have a better feel to them than before giving you a nice feeling when you are out fishing. Another stalwart from the Penn fishing rods stable is the Penn Guide Bluewater rods. These rods are ideal if you are going sardine or sailfish fishing. The tapers and actions are set to perfection, making the Bluewater an ideal buy for bluewater fishery, hence the name.

The simple wraps give it a true custom look and the K1 graphite cloth (the tightest woven graphite in the market) gives it extraordinary durability. Now how can one forget the Penn Senator Combos, the Penn fishing rods with a multitude of awards to its name- the Penn Senator Combos are truly an icon in saltwater fishing. The deceptively simple design of these rods make them durable and gives them the hardiness to survive difficult situations. Whether you are trolling bluefish or you are on the lookout for groupers, the Senator Combos are an excellent choice.

Talking of excellency, the Penn International VIGFA rods won’t disappoint you either. Having an exquisite diamond wrap and quality components, these rods are definitely meant for the big game anglers. The matching threadwork and the custom look give it an aesthetic appeal. These rods have surely got Penn quality written all over them. They are definitely the finest crafted rods ever to come out of the Penn fishing rods factory and are definitely a must buy if you take your angling seriously. Whatever your needs, Penn fishing rods answers them all and that too in style. I am sure you must be rushing out to get one for yourself now.

About The Author:
Sanjay Kumar writes content about Fishing Rods ,Shimano Fishing Reels and Tuna Fishing .For more information visit at: http://www.fishermansoutfitter.com/

Cooking Fish Guide for Your Campsite

2009-10-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more delectable that the scent and flavor of a recently caught fish, whether sautéing in a pan with butter and wine or grilling fish steaks on the coals. Unfortunately, some people are more comfortable fishing than cooking fresh fish. Let this cooking fish guide help you to make you own recipe and identify cooking tips and ingredients that will bring out the best in your fish.

When it comes to cooking fresh fish, breading and frying is as good as it gets. The scent of butter sizzling in the frying pan and the flamboyance an angler uses flipping his catch is worth its weight in gold. For the novice fisherman utilizing this cooking fish guide, make sure that the butter is very hot but not burning. Also, make sure that the fish is completely coated in batter. Season your batter with your favorite combinations. Salt and pepper never goes wrong. You may want to experiment other herbs and spices in the batter for a more delicious fish.

Ostensibly, grilling would seem to be the no-brainer method for preparing your fish. You might surmise that grilling fish is as easy as grilling steaks or burgers. Unlike poultry or beef, fish tends to secrete most of its own juices when cooked. On a grill the delicious juice drops into the coals.

To prevent losing moisture, first brush the fish with oil. The oil will seal a portion of the moisture inside. Second, keep an eye on the fillets and turn them as soon as a cut reveals that the fish is cooked halfway through. After being flipped, watch the fish closely. Remove the fish as soon as it is cooked through.

Another technique to basting the fish with oil is to wrap it in aluminum foil. The aluminum foil will keep in the moisture and marinate the fish in its own juices. Putting herbs and spices inside the foil along with the fish enhances the cooking process and the flavor of the fish.

Baking is the easiest option for the fisherman who does not want to keep an eye one the fish during cooking. You can prepare the marinade and pre-heat the oven, then place the fish into the oven for a predetermined measure of time. You may prefer to check on the fish pieces from the time to time, ensuring that you don't overcook the fish.

Any fish you catch, a traditional recipe and proper cooking will augment the catch. Take time to prepare for cooking; a disappointingly cooked fish will be sure to spoil your day. A cooking fish guide would not be perfect without this most crucial rule: don't overcook your fish. Whether baking in the oven, frying or broiling, remember to check for doneness frequently, for nearly all fish, particularly fillets, are cooked in a very short time. Fresh fish is a food you can feel good about dishing up to your family. Cooking fresh fish requires a tender touch, and with the right placement of oil, spices and perhaps a little sauce, your catch of the day will become the high spot of your evening! Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Fit The Fishing Rod To The Fishing Task

2009-10-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

See yourself standing on the bank of a swiftly moving stream in the shade of a gnarled willow, your fishing rod bent beneath the weight of an unusually large catch.

Whether or not you land that fish depends on the decisions you made at the shop -- primarily the type of rod.

The ABCs Of Fishing Rods

Your rod is the most important tool you will use while fishing, and you can chose from a wide range of types, styles and lengths.

A fishing rod is a shaft of graphite, fiberglass, steel, wood or bamboo used to catch fish (duh). Fishing filament (line), is threaded through the ferrules (eyes) along the rod. The ferrule at the tip directs the cast. 1 end of the line winds around a reel at the base of the pole. The other end of the line has a baited hook attached to it.

Fishing rods vary from 4 feet (for children) to 16 feet, with the average being 6 feet long. Rod length is chosen based on: the species of fish you target and the environment you will fish at.

Landscape

If your fishing hole is beside trees with overhead branches, you'll need a short, flexible rod. Flexibility -- the amount the rod can bend before breaking -- is determined by the diameter of the pole. Light rods are thin and flexible, while stronger rods are thicker and more rigid.

For open terrain, flexible, thin rods that are 10 to 12 feet long are good, unless it is too windy.

Fresh Water Or Salt Water?

Freshwater fishing occurs in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, while saltwater fishing is done in oceans and along the coast. Choose a rod appropriate to the environment.

Plan For Species Of Fish

Short, strong rods are best for landing game fish. Stronger and thicker rods should be used for large, aggressive fish. Such fish could break a lighter pole.

Select Rod By Material

Common types of fishing rods include bamboo, fiberglass and graphite.

Bamboo rods can be a basic, inexpensive pole with a line attached, to very expensive handcrafted rods that are used for fly-fishing. Bamboo rods run from $5 up to hundreds of dollars for handcrafted fly fishing rods. If you are not planning to do fly-fishing, fiberglass or graphite rods are best.

Fiberglass rods are good for beginners and kids and they're reasonably priced. They come in many lengths, flexibility characteristics, and require very little maintenance.

Many experienced anglers prefer graphite rods, because they are very lightweight and extremely strong.

A Fitting Rod

Your goal should be to find a rod that fits your arm and is comfortable. If you have trouble choosing, ask someone with experience to go along or just ask the staff at a fishing store. A few pointers will quickly get you on your way -- to a world of fun.

Author: Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Finding Fish

2009-10-04T08:16:00.001-07:00

Before you attempt to catch fish, you need to find out where they are. Remember that fish are found nearly everywhere there is water with sufficient levels of food, oxygen, and cover. You are certain to be within a relatively close distance to a body of water that has fish living in it. For an angler, this is good news. They are there - now you have to find them!

All fish are different. Because of this, they do not all live in the same kind of waters. Fish tolerate different environmental conditions. Some of these include differing levels of salt, amounts of oxygen, types and amounts of food, water temperature, and hiding areas. The most distinguishing element of fish is salt. Some fish do not live in areas where there is a lot of salt. On the other hand, some fish need salt to survive. There are also some types of fish that can live in both saltwater and freshwater.

Freshwater ponds, reservoirs, and rivers contain significantly less salt than the ocean. North America has a majority of freshwater bodies. Some of the fish that you will find in these freshwater bodies are the bluegill, carp, catfish, crappie, and bass. In contrast, many species of fish live in the ocean's salty water. Thanks to their kidneys, these fish are able to keep the proper balance of salt in their body. The more popular saltwater fish are the bluefish, cod, sea trout, tuna, and flounder.

Another factor that weighs heavily on where you will find certain fish is oxygen. All fish must have a certain level of oxygen to survive. Some fish, such as carp, survive on less oxygen than fish like trout. The living plants within a lake or stream directly affect the amount of oxygen in the water. They add oxygen to the water through photosynthesis. This process uses sunlight to make food. Oxygen also makes its way into water from the surrounding air.

You will find certain fish in certain bodies of water based on what kind of food is there. It is based on the amount and type of food available in a setting. All fish need to eat, so the amount of competition with other fish is a factor that determines which fish will be in certain areas.

Fish prefer different water temperatures. Some fish are flexible. They have the ability to live in a wide range of temperatures. Other fish, however, need either cold or warm water to survive. Trout is an example of this. You will only find trout in cold water. Your best bet for finding a certain type of fish is to learn about the type of water it prefers. They are most often found in water that is close to their preferred temperature.

We, as humans, can control one factor when it comes to where fish live. Water quality often determines where a fish will live and we have the means to ensure a high level of water quality. All fish must have water that has adequate levels of oxygen. Good-quality water will obviously support more species of fish than water that is polluted. Water that is stagnant, polluted, or lacking adequate oxygen simply cannot support a large group of fish. While some fish, such as carp, live in water that is not very clean, most fish need a high quality of water in order to survive.

Discovering the places where fish live is the first step to successful fishing. Several factors come into play when looking for a fish's habitat. Some of these are the levels of salt and oxygen found in water. Another factor is the temperature of the water. All fish are different. Because of this, it benefits you, the angler, to take the time necessary to find the bodies of water in which they live.

Trout

2009-10-04T08:14:00.001-07:00

People been fishing for sport for in around fifty generations now. What started as a means of survival has become a favourite pastime in North America and beyond, creating a hunger for fishing tips and aspects of fishing to be revealed in many different contexts. Learning about fishing and learning about different types of fish can be very exciting and interesting to many people.

Trout is the most common freshwater fish. They are equal to any other of the sport fish and they stand at the top of the food chain in most rivers and streams where they live. Years ago, a successful angler was judged by how many of these popular fish he could catch at one time, but now the wise angler practises catch-and-release tactics so the numbers of trout will always be plentiful. Part of what makes an angler a responsible one is caring for the sport of fishing and fish populations for generations to come.

The most popular trout fish that anglers enjoy trying to lure in is known as the “brown trout”. The brown trout provides plenty of excitement for anglers and tests fishing skills. Because it often feeds on the surface, the brown trout is considered a fish designed for the angler. It is a cold-water fish that lives in lakes and streams and jumps around the most when the water temperature is just right The brown trout got its reputation from rich English gentleman who enjoyed the trout’s fight. The world record brown trout weighed around forty pounds and was taken in Arkansas in 1992.

One of the most the most glamorized fish of the trout family actually is not a trout at all. Surprisingly, scientists have recently discovered the rainbow trout is actually a smaller cousin of the Pacific Salmon. Rainbow trout are considered a peaceful fish despite their family heritage. They coexist with any other fish in the stream. While the brown trout prefers slower water and calmer pools, the rainbow trout likes the more oxygen-rich fast running water. That enthusiasm makes the rainbow a favourite of the angler.

There is yet another trout that is not actually a trout. The Brooke trout or “brookie” lives in the cooler streams of the north-eastern US and is related to the char. This makes it a relative of the lake trout rather than a member of the family. Because the fish is only found in wilderness areas, the Brooke trout is a special favourite with anglers. Wherever they’re found, fisherman can be sure the water is pure and the ecology unspoiled. The “brookie” is often criticized for being pretty but not necessarily smart. Although anglers praise them for their beauty, it’s well known that there are harder fish to catch. The world record for the biggest Brooke trout takes place in Canada in 1918. A fourteen-pound “brookie” was caught in the Nipigon River in Ontario, Canada.

Other trout species include the red trout, a species that enjoys hiding in bracken and branches, and the deeper-water lake trout. Current population control laws protect the lake trout, requiring anglers to release catches that measure certain sizes. The size of the lake trout indicates its potential to spawn and release fertilized eggs. With continued programs of trout population protection and responsible fishing, the trout will certainly continue to survive for generations to come. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Fishing & Kids

2009-09-20T07:31:00.001-07:00

You know your kids love to try new things. They have been blessed with the same adventurous spirit that you have. After a long, cold winter, they are tired of the indoors. But you are not sure what you can do with them that they have not yet tried. Boating and fishing offer you a great way to spend time with your children and to create memories that will last a lifetime. You can do several things that will allow you to make the most of your time together.

No matter how young or old your children are, involve them in everything that you do as you embark on your fishing journey. Your kids want to feel needed and this is the perfect opportunity for them to help you. There is no better way to instill a sense of accomplishment in your kids than to allow them to help you with "grown-up" jobs. Depending on how old they are, assign them certain small things for which they are responsible. Some of these include ensuring that everyone has a personal floatation device and letting them coil a line. Your children will walk away at the end of the day with a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to help Mom and Dad.

Keep your children busy while you are fishing. They prefer to stay active. Plan your fishing outing accordingly. Include exciting water activities such as snorkeling, tubing, or looking for various wildlife. Of course, showing them the basics of fishing will forever keep them and you busy! There are enough details involved in the sport of fishing that you will need to take your kids on multiple trips before they are fluent in the language of the angler.

You have an excellent opportunity to teach your kids while fishing on a boat. You have the ability to teach them new skills that they use long after you have caught your last fish. Merely being on the water allows you to teach kids new things about their environment. You can also teach them about boating, fishing, and safety skills. Try to incorporate these teachings into fun, intriguing activities.

Introduce them to new and exciting things as they are ready. For example, create a game that teaches nautical terminology. Focus on words like port, starboard, or bow. You should build upon this knowledge. After they know these terms, help your children learn the best way to safely drive a fishing boat or cast a fishing line. Always be an observant teacher. The combination of boating and fishing allows for an enormous amount of learning.

This type of hands-on learning lasts a long time. Your children will benefit in many ways. They will discover things that help them become better fishers and boatmen. Participating in an activity that is thousands of years old teaches them about tradition. They will eventually be able to teach their kids all that you have taught them. This includes many of the elements of responsibility that come with helping adults achieve a goal.

Your children will have unlimited amounts of fun as they encounter new settings, new climates, and new wildlife. Most importantly, fishing and boating with your children will give you the chance to spend quality time with them. This is worth more than all of the fun had and the lessons learned. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Tackle Box Must Haves

2009-09-20T06:23:00.001-07:00

You cannot have success at any sport if you do not have the right equipment. When people think of fishing, they automatically think of rods, reels, and bait. However, you cannot underestimate the power of the tackle box because it plays an important role in the success of your fishing expeditions.

Many people covet their tackle boxes because they represent a lifetime of trials and tribulations regarding what methods work for which fish. If you are a novice in the world of fishing, you could find yourself overwhelmed with the possibilities and choices that are available. Starting your tackle box can seem challenging, but if you stick to the basics, you will be able to get started without a hitch.

The first thing that you need is to pick out a box. A tackle box should be strong and able to handle wear and tear easily. The plastic tackle boxes are usually thick and come with strong handles making it easier to lug back and forth between boat, river, and pier trips. The most important thing when deciding on a box is the latch. Your tackle box must have a sturdy latch because you do not want everything to spill out on the dock or into the water. When you are in a boating store, pull on the latch and test it before you decide on a purchase.

Some essentials to keep in a tackle box are hooks, lines, and sinkers. Hooks are an important part of fishing because without them you will not be catching very much. The larger the number size of the hook, the smaller the hook actually is. When you buy line, make sure that your line fits your reel. Keep an extra spool in your box for just-in-case purposes.

Sinkers are important for helping your bait to catch fish below the surface of the water. In order to get your line to the bottom you are going to need split-shot sinkers. Sinkers are made from different materials, but the safest are the ones that are made from steel, tin, and non-toxic metals. Some of the sinkers are made from lead and they can potentially poison some types of fish.

Lures are going to be the next thing that you add to your tackle box. There are many different types of lures ranging in all colors, shapes, sizes, and material. Different fish are attracted to different types of lures. For instance, a kingfish will be more attracted by a lure with glitter while a bass will be more attracted to a worm shaped lure. Make sure to know what the fish you are trying to catch like to eat before you buy.

Some fun gadgets that may be useful are the leaders, snap swivels, fingernail clippers, needle-nose pliers, practice plugs, stringers, and maps. Maps are obvious because you need to know how to get to your favorite fishing spots. However, the other things may need some greater explanation. A leader is a piece of line with a metal core that will keep a fish from biting off the line and escaping. A snap swivel will prevent tangles in your line and a practice plug is for casting. Lastly, a stringer will help you to keep your catch fresh in the water.

Once you start fishing regularly, you will find out which lures are useful and which one don’t help at all. You will discover the tools that you use the most and the ones that are just collecting dust. Hopefully, you will try new things and maybe put your own spin on some old ones and build the perfect tackle box for you. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Heritage Fishing: Fishing in the Past for the Future

2009-09-13T07:37:00.001-07:00

Heritage fisheries are carefully maintained aquatic preserves in various parts of the world where a tradition or habitat surrounding fishing has been protected from today’s modern hazards. A heritage fishery may be a lake, river or part of the ocean; its locale having less to do with its heritage designation than preservation of a certain style or era. Heritage fishing's purpose is twofold: to experience fishing as it was in the past and to preserve fishing for the future.

Glendalough State Park is the newest member of the Minnesota State Parks family. Its land was given to the state by a private donor in the 1990s and the lakes on the park acreage were fished privately for nearly a hundred years. No one other than members of the donor’s family or their guests was allowed to utilize the lakes at Glendalough State Park. As a result, fish sizes and populations in the Glendalough lakes are more representative of historic times than of modern times.

Annie Battle Lake, the largest of the Glendalough Lakes, allows the angler to experience fishing as it was in Minnesota during the 1800s. Motors of any kind are not allowed on the lake. Canoes and rowboats are available for rental at the park office and shore fishing is a pleasure from any location here. Gas powered vehicles are prohibited, as are any type of electronic fish-finding device.

Large bass, panfish, walleye and northern pike abound under the crystal clear waters of Annie Battle Lake because the waters are unpolluted by gas or oil. Catch-and-release regulations and fishing limits are strictly enforced here, maintaining the size and count of the population for generations to come. A small brook connecting Annie Battle Lake to another of the park lakes is waist deep with a sandy bottom, providing excellent wading areas for bass fishing.

The Lave Net Fishery at Blackrock on the Severn Estuary in Wales is the last of its kind in Wales and has also been designated as a heritage fishery. Treacherous tidal waters averaging speeds of 7-8 knots have witnessed generations of fishermen pass along this fishing technique. Less than a dozen lave net fishing licenses are issued by the Welsh government each year, with all belonging to a local association dedicated to preserving this unique method of salmon fishing. The only noticeable difference between modern and historic lave netters are that they now sport waders as opposed to animal skins.

The lave net itself, a Y-shaped structure constructed of wood and a hand-made net, remains unchanged. Anglers wade into the river and either “cower”, waiting for the salmon to approach him, or watch for the telltale salmon splashes announcing their location. The fisherman can then net the fish before they head to deeper water. This kind of fishing is restricted by law and by the tides. Anglers have about 1.5 hours before low tide to practice their craft when conditions are calm. Their knowledge of the tides and of the area, received from the generation before, serves as their guide.

Kjaerra Laxefiske on the Kjaerrafossen River near Helgeland, Norway dates back to 1388. Ownership of the two heritage fisheries here is marked by the “markebol”, a medieval unit of measurement. Salmon are caught via the use of ancient fishing tools, while the buildings surrounding the fisheries were restored to medieval timber and stone during the 1950s. Visitors are welcomed to the weekly opening of salmon pots every Thursday where the catch of the week is revealed.

Wherever they are located, heritage fisheries are an important part of the environment and the community. In addition to offering the simple thrill of fishing itself, they provide an opportunity to learn from the past, as well as preserving the present heritage of fishing for future anglers. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Essentials To Know For A Fun-filled Deep Sea Fishing Trip

2009-09-06T07:09:00.000-07:00

If it’s your first time to go for a deep sea fishing
trip, there are some essential things to know to make
it a fun-filled and successful one. Here are some of
the key points when having a deep sea fishing trip.

Overlooked Things To Bring

For sure fishing equipment, food and clothing are the
ones that are always remembered by people to bring on
a deep sea fishing trip. However, there’s still some
other stuff that a lot of people overlook bringing
with them to a trip.

One good example would be a cooler. Bringing one with
some ice, icepacks or even frozen water bottles are
very important, since this is what you’ll use to
retain the freshness of your catch and keep it cold.

Another one would be spare cash. Other than being
vital for emergencies, you would need this just in
case you get the biggest fish and you would have to
get in on the pool. You also need this for mate
tipping purposes for providing you help throughout
your excursion.

Also seasickness medicine would be important too.
Dramamine is one effective solution for that problem.
For those who are already used to boats, this kind of
problem may seldom be encountered. However, it would
still be beneficial if you pack a small first aid kit.
Try to bring band-Aids, stomach medicine, tissues, and
disinfectants in the kit, just so in case minor
injuries occur during the trip.

Best Locations For A Deep Sea Fishing Trip

Some of the best locations to have a deep sea fishing
trip are: Bodega Bay and San Diego in California;
Wildwood, or Cape May in New Jersey; Boston and Cape
Cod in Massachusetts; Daytona Beach, Destin, Key West
and Miami in Florida; Freeport, Galveston and Port
Aransas in Texas; Gloucester in Maine; Ocean City in
Maryland; and Point Pleasant in New Jersey.

These spots can give you a variety of fish to catch.
They also offer you different views and experiences
with nature. Each spot can have their own pro’s and
con’s, however, one thing’s for sure they are great
deep sea fishing spots!

General Deep Sea Fishing Overview

In general, a deep-sea fishing trip could last about
four to eight hours, or more depending on how long you
want it to be. You can arrange trips with your charter
or party boast in the morning or afternoon. In fact,
if you have a special occasion, you can even schedule
evening trips. You can also do this if you’re the
night owl type that might not be back to shore even
until wee hours of the morning.

If you’re having one of these late night trips,
especially during the colder months bringing a thermos
that is full to the brim with steaming tea, hot
chocolate or coffee would be a great way to keep
yourselves alert and warm during the trip.

Freebies On The Side

The great thing with deep sea fishing is that
sometimes you can get freebies on the side. Other than
the adventure of being out in the waters, you may be
graced with the appearance of some dolphins too. There
are cases in which you can also have a glimpse of sea
birds that are chasing each other playfully. However,
the situation would not always be like this, since
factors like location, weather, time of the day and
how many people you are with on your boat could affect
whether you’d see such blessings. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Proper Accessories

2009-09-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

For some people, fishing is a pastime. For others among us, it is a serious sport. However you perceive it, fishing is enjoyable when you’ve got the proper accessories to use. Here is a list of some considerations to think over.

Often there is a nice spot to fish from the shore of a pond, lake, stream or river. Other times, you will need to consider what kind of transportation you will need to get over the water. The canoe is the oldest craft. It is the traditional vehicle of the American Indian and has great traditional value, but that does not mean it is the best kind of water transportation available. A canoe can be tippy at the best of times and especially hard to handle in the wind but paddling or drifting along makes it easy to approach good spots to fish undetected.

A small rowboat without a motor is considered the best kind of boat to use since you can stand up in it to cast. Although it is best to row to the spot where you intend to fish, a small trolling motor is handy for travelling some distances. Larger pleasure boats with outboards are also recommended, but a boat with high sides is best as big lakes and broad rivers are prone to winds that can whip up big waves.

You will also need to pick out some quality footwear. This becomes especially important if you are going to fish by the side of a lake. Hip boots are the most practical for this as they can be rolled down if you’re not wading. While hip boots can also be used for stream wading, chest or hip waders are traditionally best here. When choosing chest or hip-wader boots, select ones that have a loose fit. Having waders that are too tight could restrict leg motion and undue stress on the seams could leave you wet.

The proper jacket is also a necessity. Jackets come in two basic lengths: Long and short. The long style is designed for fishing from a boat or wading in shallow water. If you are planning to use chest waders, it is recommended you use a short jacket since the bottom of a long jacket would drag in the water. You should select a jacket with generous pockets for carrying lure boxes and other accessories. A hat with a visor is another good idea because you will have your eyes on the water and need some kind of shade.

The avid angler has three stashes of lure and tackle-box containers. The first stash is for the home stockpile, the second and larger one for the boat, and a third stash is for the car. That way, you will always be covered in the event of a loss or other mishap. It is a good idea to buy a large supply at the beginning of the season too so you will have lots on hand, especially if you like to fish at night.

With the right fishing accessories and gear, you can turn your fishing experience into a better one. The last thing you want when the time for that perfect catch nears is to realize you are missing an important piece of equipment. Preparedness is among the most important aspects of fishing, so make sure that you have all of the gear you need to have the best experience of your life. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

2009-08-31T20:12:00.001-07:00

How To Fish Birch Island Muskies With Grandma Lures on Howcast

Hawaii Charter Fishing

2009-08-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the hardest thing about going on vacation is the overdose of downtime. You want to find enough things to do to keep you busy, but not too much to where you feel overloaded. Chartering a fishing boat has its advantages, but on the island of Hawaii, it is a day trip that you do not want to miss. There are certain basics when chartering a boat, but since Hawaii is not just a hop, skip and jump away, you want to make your plans ahead of time while having all of your questions answered.

First of all, you will need a boat. Hawaii has hundreds of charter boats throughout the islands, so availability will not be an issue. The companies that charter boats have certain criteria that they have to follow in order to run their business. The boat must be inspected for proper gear, maintenance, and repair history. They are also inspected for their experience level. No one wants to pay for a charter and catch a fish that the crew cannot handle.

The charter trips are typically broken up into various price categories. Prices will vary depending on where you are staying and where you want to fish. For instance, Kona has the lowest prices but the most competition for marlin fishing while Lahaina is the most expensive.

If you are concerned about the fish, do not worry. Most of the charters will succumb to whatever you want to do with your catches. If you want to take them home or if you want to cook them for dinner, it should not matter as long as you make your requests up front. Hawaii does have a deep-rooted tradition of selling Billfish and this concept offends many anglers. Today, many charters are willing to throw the Billfish back (at the customer’s request), but don’t be surprised if this is not the case.

You should also know that when you charter a boat, you are not chartering fish. A charter is to allow you to have an experience out on the water enjoying the scenery and trying to catch a fish. Fishing is a sport where there are no guarantees and there is no way of predicting where fish will be and when. If you charter a boat with the expectation of a refund for a bad catch day, you will be disappointed. There is no charter trip that will refund your money for a lack of fish on a given day.

Some of the things that you will need when you charter a boat for the day are not what you may expect. Most boats will provide you with tackle and equipment, but that is it. You are expected to bring your own snacks and drinks. You should also invest in some Bullfrog sunscreen, which is waterproof and commonly used on boats. Another good tool essential to fishing are sunglasses. Your sunglasses should be polarized so that you can see the fish clearer than other glasses. Lastly, bring an extra towel and t-shirt because you will probably get wet.

Make sure to leave your bananas behind. Hawaii, as well as many other fishing places, has a strict policy against bananas being onboard. They are thought to bring bad luck, so do not try to test this theory or your day may be extremely unpleasant.

Hawaii can be a little more difficult to plan a fishing trip on the spur of the moment because the locals usually have conflicting opinions. Try to do some research on the islands that you want to fish and then book a charter through a major company that has a trusted record.
Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Catch and Release Fishing

2009-08-23T07:40:00.001-07:00

Fishing is a sport, but it has become less about survival and more about fun in recent decades. There is an issue of fish becoming depleted and many anglers are now employing the practice of catch and release fishing. Catch and release fishing is a great theory, but many people are doing it incorrectly and as a result many fish are dying. A few steps should be followed when trying to catch and release a fish. Once you get the hang of how to do it correctly, you will be able to enjoy your hobby and keep the population of fish full in your favorite stream or lake.

The best place to start is with the hooks. A fish that has a hole through its mouth is going to be more likely to survive than a fish with a hole in its lung or gill. If you happen to hook a fish in the gut, the best thing to do is to cut off the hook as much as you can then release the fish. Many times the hook will dissolve and the fish will spit it out, but they can also live with a rusted hook hanging from them. Whatever you do, do not tug on your line to pull a hook out or you will severely hurt the fish. If you are able to easily remove the hook, use a pair of needle nose pliers. The process of pulling the hook out is easier if you remove the barbs from the hooks, but try not to wiggle while you pull the hook out.

Fish are obviously unable to survive outside of the water. Therefore, the longer that it takes you to release them, the more it becomes as if you are suffocating them. The way that a fish is gripped when out of the water will make a big difference. For instance, avoid touch a fish’s body with your bare hands. The fish have a slimy protective coat that will be stripped if you touch them with your hands. If you have to touch a fish, make sure that your hands are wet. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts or permeating fish smells.

Part of the fun in fishing is to “play out” the fish. The struggle can be what some anglers wait all day to do. Fish are like humans; when they “work out,” they build up lactic acid. When you are fighting a fish, they are fighting too. Just like when someone works his or her body out and it feels sore, a fish experiences the same thing. The build up of lactic acid can be toxic to a fish even days later. Therefore, if you are going to practice catch and release, try to keep the struggle to a minimum.

Try not to let a fish flop around when you catch them. A fish that flops around can bruise or damage its internal organs, causing them to die later from the injuries that are incurred. You can also revive a fish if you need to do so. A fish is likely to run out of oxygen and pass out, so to speak. In order to revive a fish, you place the fish in the water with their belly down and gently grasp their tail. Start to slowly move their tail back and forth until they give you the signal that they are ready to take off into the water. Sometimes you will need to repeat the process more than once, but don’t let a fish go until they are ready. A fish that is not ready to swim could get carried away and swept into rocks or embankment and cause serious injury.

More than anything, when you are practicing catch and release, have everything ready to go. Make sure that your camera, pliers, and gloves are in reaching distance. Try to take the precautions necessary to preserve fish and one of America’s favorite pastimes.
Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Deep Sea Fishing: Knowing Your Tides

2009-08-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

It can sound weird but a comprehensive knowledge on
tides and their effect on your fishing area can
actually pay big dividends. In fact, it is considered
to be one key to being successful in the realm of deep
sea fishing, by the experts. A lot of fishing guides
and charter-boat captains know this secret. They even
make close studies on currents, tides, and how they
would affect fishing on their areas.

The Unknown Secret

However, sad to say, that a lot of informal deep sea
anglers actually pay very little attention to such
important details. In fact, some anglers don’t pay
attention at all! And then they would wonder how come
the other guy catches all the fish and they don’t.
Nevertheless, there are still those who realize that
somehow tides can affect their fishing. However, they
do not know exactly how and why this happens.

These anglers usually waste their precious hours
trolling, casting and sinker bouncing even when the
tide is not right. However, the deep sea angler who
knows his tides could pick in advanced the most
favourable fishing periods and concentrate on his
efforts during those times. This simply means you can
have less of those wasted days and get more fish on
your deep sea fishing trips.

Getting Started

You don’t have to delve into tide’s science here,
except to point out that tides are due to the
gravitational forces that are brought about the sun
and moon. Since the moon is nearer earth, it has
greater influence with tides than the sun.

Types Of Tides

Every time the tide is up, water would move towards
land, which is also known as “flood tide”. On
occasions that tides drop, moving its way back to sea,
is called “ebb tide”. The period in which it doesn’t
move either way is termed as the “slack tide”. It
usually takes a period of 6 hours for it to rise, and
6 to get low. For every 24 hours these tides occur 50
minutes later than the last, approximately.

Variations

They also vary in regards to the degrees that they
drop or rise. The highest tides occur when the sun and
moon are situated on Earth’s same side, creating a
direct line. Such kind of tide is called “spring
tide”, which occur during new-moon and full-moon
periods.

During these times, both low and high tides are higher
than their usual state. However, during the last and
first quarter phases of the moon, tides don’t fall or
rise or fall that much. This is called as “neap
tides”.

Which Is Which

So which of theses tides are helpful and which are
not? To start off, most experts believe that moving
tides or currents are most of the time more productive
than having no currents or tides. Thus, a “slack” tide
would rarely produce good catch.

Using The Tides At The Right Time

You can take advantage of tides even more by knowing
when to go. The period in which an incoming tide
starts is considered to be one of the productive
periods for fishing, especially if you are targeting
for gamesters like bluefish, striped bass, channel
bass, and weakfish.

During the periods of slack water, the small bait
fishes tend to scatter, and having a lack of strong
currents they are able to swim faster and escape their
predators.

However, when tides start moving, such small bait
fishes are at the strong rips and current’s mercy.
Thus, they are easier to catch and find by stripers
and other kinds of game fish. When an outgoing tide
starts is yet another good time do fish, simply for
the same logic. In general, the popular change of
tide, whether it be low or high, is actually the best
time to do your fishing. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

How to Get the Most Out of Your Deep Sea Fishing Trip

2009-08-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

Deep Sea Fishing is one amazing experience that can be
a very memorable one for you and your fishing mates.
However, it is an activity that is often not
maximized. What most people don’t know is that there
is much more to deep sea fishing than fishing itself.
It’s really sad that trips like these are often not
maximized.

To not commit such a common mistake, here are some of
the ways that you can maximize your deep sea fishing
trip to make it an even more momentous and enjoyable
one!

Understand The Signs

Enjoying the sea itself and the wildlife around you is
often overlooked by deep sea trippers. Try to be
watchful of what nature around you is telling you. If
you can see birds, like gulls or other sea birds that
are hovering over a specific area of water, then heed
on it.

There is a big probability that there are smaller
fishes usually used by fishermen as bait somewhere in
that area. This could imply that there is yet another
big probability that there would be bigger fishes
beneath that area of water. Try following these simple
hints and indications and for sure you’d be having a
catch in no time!

Be Watchful

You may also want to be on the watch for snooks during
your trip. Try to look under ledges since this is one
of their favourite hiding places. In fact, they have a
similar behaviours and habits with bass.

If It’s A Full Moon, Do It The Crab Way

During full moons, crabs usually shed off their skins.
So if you’ll be deep sea fishing on a full moon night,
you could try making use of soft crab imitations as
your bait. Doing this would definitely entice the
stripers from their hiding places to go look out for
the crabs.

Want Some Tuna? Get A Dolphin!

If you’ll be fishing out for tuna, especially
yellowfins, one good way to locate them is follow
where the dolphins are. Tuna usually school with
dolphins, which is why if ever you see dolphins there
is a really big probability that some tuna school
would not be that far away.

However, it is vital to take note that you should be
careful not to land on a dolphin even by accident,
because dolphins are protected species, which should
be treated with some respect.

Don’t Go Solo

Let’s face it, going solo with any kind of activity is
not that always fun. This is just the same with deep
sea fishing. So, if you really want to make something
out of your trip, such as priceless memories and
enjoyable moments, then you should try spending the
trip with some friends or family.

Battle Sea Sickness

If you have sea sickness or motion sickness, then a
fishing trip can be a not so enjoyable activity for
you. However, you should not let this hamper you from
enjoying such great experience. That is why you should
battle it.

If this is your problem, try looking at the horizon.
It might sound ironic and silly, but you should try to
stay up on deck as long as you can; doing this can
make it easier for you to adjust with the boat’s
motion. Additionally, staying away from fumes is
advisable, since they could make you feel even worse.
Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Fishing With GPS

2009-07-30T06:21:00.000-07:00

In this day and age, you would be hard pressed to find a fishing boat without some sort of fish finding device. GPS devices have become the latest in technology and water safety when it comes to fishing. They are used as a means of navigation and a way to mark your spot so that you can find it again in the future.

A GPS is a Global Positioning System that is made primarily for navigational purposes. They work off a network of satellites that are placed into orbit by the United States Government. The best part about a GPS system is that because they operate off satellite, they can be used in any weather conditions at any hour of the day.

The satellites will circle the earth twice during the day and transmit signal information to Earth. The signals can then be used to calculate the user’s exact location by implementing triangulation and pinpointing exact spots. Triangulation means that the GPS receiver must be locked into three spots before a calculation of longitude and latitude can be displayed. After the satellites have mapped the location, the GPS can narrow in on other satellites for useful information such as speed, track, trip distance, destination distance and sunrise or sunset times.

The accuracy of the GPS system is very acute because of the multi-channel designs that are available. A GPS will lock onto a satellite and maintain that lock through one of their channels. A GPS fish finder is accurate up to fifteen meters while the newer models increase in accuracy up to three meters.

There are many benefits to investing in a GPS and people are using GPS more regularly and relying on them more than the more traditional ways of navigation such as maps and charts. If you have plot points that you have saved on a GPS, you may be able to save time and frustration on the open seas by going directly to the location that had the fish the last time you went out. Another advantage to the GPS is that it can detect hot fishing spots that may not be detected by older maps or charts. In addition, if you find a perfect fishing spot, you can share it with a friend when you go fishing on another boat.

GPS systems are also a great safety tool when you are out on the water. Many times, especially if there are many people socializing on a boat, it can be easy to lose concentration. People will easily be turned around or lost and a GPS is an easy tool to use to find your way back home. You can also use a GPS system if there is unexpected bad weather such as fog or heavy rain. GPS systems are also equipped with mapping software that makes it easier to find a dock. The GPS is so accurate that it is able to communicate exact positions to the Coast Guard or rescue crew if an emergency arises.

You can purchase a handheld GPS online or at your local marine or boating store. Ask a salesperson to help explain the different features and costs for the varying models. If you decide to purchase your boat from a dealer, you will need a built-in GPS. Your local boat supplier will be able to give you a reference to someone who can properly install your electronics.
You should never rely on just one navigation tool when you are fishing. A GPS seems to cover all of the bases, but it is still a computerized tool. You should always be proactive about your safety and always have marine maps and charts onboard at all times. You should also have a handheld radio handy in case of emergencies.
Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Deep Sea Fishing: Tips On Conserving Your Catch

2009-07-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

So what is it exactly that you do with the fish you
catch? For some, they abide the philosophy of keeping
enough for their meal and releasing the rest. The best
fish would be the freshest ones. Even though you’re
not into cooking them yourselves, a lot of local
restaurants can offer you preparations for a fresh
catch meal. Sitting down on a meal of fish that you
just caught would be the perfect ending for one great
fishing day. Most consider it to be one of the most
satisfying things to do that anyone can accomplish!

Why Conserve?

Fish is a renewable resource. Thus, proper management
and techniques are needed to ensure their survival and
the abundance of the resource for the future
generations. In fact, overfished stocks would require
years of regulatory actions and monitoring to restore
its fishery level into one that is self-sufficient and
self-sustaining.

Additionally, for every year that passes, there seems
to be more restrictions in regards to the recreational
bags. Even size limits are imposed. All of these due
to the occurrence of overfishing which is in
consequence of improved technology.

The Solution

Practicing the habit of catch and release is actually
one of the ways in which recreational anglers like you
could help ensure the health and prosperity of the
future fisheries. In this way, you can also guarantee
everybody’s opportunity to have a fun day of deep sea
fishing that is concluded with a scrumptious and
satisfying meal.

Here are some of the ways in which you can help ensure
survival of the fish that you release and get some
satisfaction by returning your catch to its
environment.

Get Your Tackle Right

First off you should make sure that your tackle
matches the fish you’re targeting. Although it may not
seem obvious, doing this can ensure its safety once
you release it back into the waters. If your tackle is
too light, it would be exhausted by the moment you
land it. Thus due to its exhaustion, it could be a
very easy target for predators when release it back to
the waters; since it couldn’t swim that fast anymore.

Customize Your Hook

Customizing your hook is yet another way to conserve
your catch. By simply using a pair of pliers, you can
mash down your hook’s barb. Doing this would enable
you for an easier release of the catch and better
safety on its side. Another great addition to the
terminal tackle you’ll be doing would be circle hooks.
When the catch swallows the hook, all you have to do
is cut the line closely as you can to your hook, then
release your catch as quickly as you can.

Don’t Suffocate It

As much as possible, while releasing your catch leave
it in the water. If there is no choice but to handle
it out of the water, then be sure that you wet your
hands. You should do this to reduce the removal of its
protective slime layer that covers it. The removal of
this layer can make your catch susceptible to disease
once it goes back to the waters.

Hold It Right

Handling the fish is important too. You should make
sure that you don’t grab it in its gills or eyes,
since these are very sensitive areas that fish need
for survival. Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Funny Home Videos Are a Click Away

2009-07-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Fishing Fun - Funny home videos are a click away

Blue Marlin Fishing

2009-07-17T21:28:00.003-07:00

Marlins are characterized as big game saltwater fish. The average weight of a blue marlin is anywhere from one hundred to five hundred pounds. Their bodies can reach the length of ten feet and they are mainly found in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. The blue marlin is known for its ability to fight, so you must be willing to match the marlin’s will to live in order to take the sport seriously. Just like any other fish, the importance of learning the habits of the blue marlin is essential before trying to make them submissive to a hook.

When marlin are in their primitive habitat they will feed on many things including mullet, cero, whole ballyhoo, dolphin, flying fish, bonito, skipjacks, squid and Spanish mackerel. The reason for understanding the marlin’s eating habits is to know what bait will be useful to catch these mammoth fish. Any combination of the aforementioned fish will be more than sufficient bait when trying to catch your marlin.

A simple technique used in marlin fishing is the lure of the “bonito” bait. You take the bonito and hook it through the tops of their eye sockets. The bonito will stay alive for hours, making your job more about patience.

Make sure that you have half of the line on your reel because marlin have a stubborn streak and they will try to fight you until you are tired or are dragged under by the weight and persistence. Wheel in your line consistently after the marlin first takes a bite of the bait. If your line seems to be too tight, loosen up the slack in order to give the marlin a little more room. This technique will also allow you to take a small break here and there. Loosening your line will also decrease the chance that the line will break, which is a common cause of anglers losing their game.

Another traditional method for finding marlin is the study of their behavior. Marlin will usually follow schools of fish. They will also be more susceptible to trolling. Trolling is simple enough if you employ logic when you use the method. For instance, if you spot a marlin following a school of fish, do not drop your bait in front of the fish because they will scatter and scare the marlin. If the sun is positioned in front of the marlin, he will be oblivious to your bait because he will be unable to see it.

The best way to find marlin is through the use of modern technology. An ultrasound sensor is a tool that is used to spot marlin. However, the gadgets for fishing are not cheap. Unless you are someone who is dedicated to solely fishing for marlin, be careful of the purchases that you make. Often times companies will make products that are specifically designed for a certain type of fishing, in a certain location, or even a region. Make sure that you do your research before you buy any electronic fishing tool.

The one thing to keep in mind about marlin is their will to survive. A fight with a marlin could last for hours without the slightest bit of relief. If at any time you feel like you are becoming exhausted and the fish is still going strong, cut the line. If you land a blue marlin you will feel an exhilarating sense of accomplishment, but there is no achievement that should allow you to put yourself in danger at any time. Marlin fishing should be a hobby, but it is a hobby that should be approached with intelligence. You should always know the strength of your opponent before you take the challenge of a fight. The marlin is a beautiful fish, that if you become good enough, can make you a lot of money, but it will take a will that matches the fish to beat the fish.

Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com

Night Fishing

2009-07-17T21:26:00.000-07:00

Night fishing is a little harder than fishing when the sun is bright. However, it is common throughout the reservoirs of the south and southeast when the summer months are too uncomfortable to fish for an entire day. The water will usually be so warm that the fish will go deeper and deeper from the surface to find more oxygen, making them harder to catch. Many people night fish as a hobby, but it is important to take extra safety precautions and to be prepared for anything.

Generally, bass fishing is the most common type of night fishing. Since bass are slow moving and they do not migrate long distances, you should be able to locate them at the same locations during many parts of the day. If you have a certain fishing spot, they should still be there at night as well. The fish will also find spots near manufactured structures and anywhere that crawfish may be in abundance.

Typically, you will want to use a heavier tackle at night than you would during the day. Since sight is limited, you will have to rely on the feel of the lure to determine whether you have a bite. Some of the lures that have been proven to give results are hair jigs, pork rinds, and rubber jigs.

When you are preparing for your night trip, you need to take some extra measures that you may not necessarily think about for a day trip. You should check the weather beforehand. When visibility is limited, you do not want to be caught in rain or deep fog. You also need to make sure that your boat is in working order. The last thing that you will want is to break down at night.

You should be well aware of what you have and do not have in your tackle and toolboxes. Light sources are obviously very important to night fishing. Many anglers will use “black lights” and some sort of fluorescent line. When the line is under the black light, it will have a neon glow and make subtle movements more visible. At the very least, you should have extra flashlights and a mounted light on your boat. You want to keep yourself safe and visible to other boats that may be night fishing at the same time.

Bass fish do not have great vision, so they will rely on their sense of smell during the night. Your objective is to create a smell of food or wounded prey. A popular method during night fishing is to create a chum line. If you are not comfortable trolling a chum line, you may want to consider live bait. Be prepared that some larger species of fish are going to be looking for a free meal as well.

Another thing you cannot forget when you go out for any fishing trip is a first aid kit. If for some reason you so much as cut your finger, you will need to have supplies ready and in reach. You need to wear your life jacket at all times when you are fishing at night. Don’t forget your insect repellent because mosquitoes are looking for a free meal, too.

Http://www.QualityFishingStuff.com