Freshwater Fishing Basics

Introduction

Bass are a predatory type fish. Meaning, they hide and ambush their prey. They are one of the most commonly fished species in the United States. The most common Bass are Largemouth and Smallmouth. Smallies (as they are commonly called) can be found in moderate to cooler water. They live in large deep lakes and rivers.

Largemouths can be found throughout the United States, Mexico and Southern parts of Canada.

Fish for both of them around drop offs, weed beds, in and around structure and points.

Equipment

Listed below is the equipment you need to get started fishing for bass:

• Rod: Medium action, 6′ or 6′ 1/2″ casting rod.
• Reel:Spincast model
• Line: 8-20 lb test strength line
• Terminal tackle: snap swivel

Rod- A 6′ or 6′/1/2″ medium action rod is an all around general rod. Both lengths are standard, length really comes down to personal preference. Additionally, a rod of this size, can be used to go after a wide variety of fish.
Reel- Go with a Zebco Spincast Reel hands down for a number of reasons. Zebco makes the best reels for learning how to cast. It’s simple to use, Just push thebutton and cast. Also, it’s inexpensive and a good quality reel for a small investment. You can buy cheaper spincast reels, but we feel if your going to have equipment problems, they will most likely be from your reel. Because of this, we suggest a better quality reel in the beginning to minimize potential problems.

Line- Use 8-20 lb test line because we’re unsure about the fishing conditions. You can definetly pull smallies out with 8lb test line, but might need 20 if your fishing around stumps, rocks and fallen trees. When picking out a line consider: the conditions , the size of the fish, and your lures. Some of the major Manufactures include Stren, Berkley, Spiderwire and PowerPro.

Terminal Tackle- The snap swivel helps out the beginning fisherman in two ways:

• The swivel part, reduces line twisting
• The snap makes it simple to quickly change lures.

I suggest the Ball Bearing Swivel with Fast-Lock Snap

Tackle/Bait:

Many books have been written about catching Bass. Our intent here is to offer you an introduction to some basic lures that are easy to use, along with some basic techniques.

Crankbait- These are plastic or wood bodied plugs that look like minnows or other types of baitfish. We want to give you a place to start, by suggesting some proven lures that can be highly effective based on your fishing conditions.

Rapala Husky Jerk – This is a suspending bait. When it hits the water, start cranking so it’ll dive. When you stop cranking, it stays in place. This allows you to keep your bait in front of them longer, thus coaxing them into striking! Try twitching the rod tip to give the lure more action.

Bomber Fat “A” This bait wobbles and makes noise as you crank it. The action and noise this lure produces drives the bass crazy! Just use a steady retrieve and hang on.

Rapala Skitter Prop- A great topwater bait. Twitching makes the cup on the face pop the water. It makes a popping noise and looks wounded!

Rapala Jointed Minnows- These lures can be used in many different conditions. A must have! These can steadily retrieved. Try twitching the rod tip to make it look wounded.

© 2005 – 2007, Scott Gaines. All rights reserved.