How To Use Live Bait More Effectively When You Go Fishing

Many people think using live bait is better then using jigs and what not but the truth is fish will bite both you just need to find out which spots that you fish which bait they like more. When you are fishing with live bait you do not ever want to touch the live bait with your hands if they are dry that will cause the protective film on the fish to come off on your hand and it will leave a scent on the bait of you therefore a fish will not take the bait.

If your live bait is dying or you are just running out in general just use some of the dead bait just make it appear to be alive when you are using it just give it a jig or two when you are waiting for a bite. I have caught all kinds of fish on dead bait from red fish to sharks. Although a lot of people like to fish with artificial baits and lures I personally prefer live bait.

If you are going to be trying to fish with live bait in the summer it can often be hard to keep it alive. I have two options for those who do fish in the summer months and want to catch the big ones. The first option is if you are fishing from a bank then you should have your live bait in a bucket with an air supply. All you do is get a bucket then go buy an air supply from a bait store. The other option is if you are going to be wading when you fish then just simply get your bait bucket and drag it out with you in the water so that the fish you are trying to catch always have something fresh to try and eat. If you just go wading instead of standing on the bank you will probably catch more than you would just standing.

When you are fishing you will want to check the water temps the water on the top of the surface is always going to be warmer then the water deeper so if you are using live bait you will need to use some type of weight to get them down deeper so that they can stay alive long enough for you to be able to actually try and catch something. If you don't have them down deep enough they will just die and float up. That is why keeping your bait live is so important when you are wanting to fish with live bait because if you don't keep the bait live it will soon be dead bait which is no good when you are fishing for a certain fish that only eat live bait. So go out there and get yourself some live bait and learn your own way to fishing with live bait you never know you might catch the biggest fish of your life on live bait and if not you can still use the dead bait after the live bait dies.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more fishing as well as fishing gear at http://www.nsearch.com

How To Prepare For The Exciting Sport Of Shark Fishing

If you are actually trying to catch a shark then you should do so with forethought and preparation. The best time to catch a shark is really all year round, people will always say oh man the best time to catch a shark is in June but I think that is dead wrong. You can catch the biggest shark you have ever seen in the middle of winter. People who say that you can only catch them in one month are ignorant and uniformed. Just last week I caught a big bull shark and it's almost Christmas time. You can catch a shark at any time of the year as long as you have some bloody fish bait.

When you are going shark fishing you are going to need many things. The first thing you are going to need is a few shark rods and reels. You will want to have something so that they cannot spool all your line out then rip the rod out of your hand. You will want to have a big rod and reel like a boat rod. You will also need some sort of mode to get your bait out in the water casting it will not work since you are going to have about a 10 foot steel cable leader. You will want a kayak or small boat to run your baits out. I think the best rod to use is a big boat rod so that you ca catch anything, when you are shark fishing you can catch other things besides sharks, other fish eat the same stuff that a shark will.

You will also need to know which type of shark it is you want to catch. You can catch mostly all types of sharks inshore, such as bull sharks, tiger sharks, black tip sharks, and lemon sharks. Basically if you live on the North American continent you will be able to catch a wide variety of sharks. A lot of people think that you cannot catch certain sharks all over the world but they are wrong you can catch just about every kind of shark in the Atlantic Ocean.

After you have your bait in the water all you do is wait for the run. Once you have that bait in the water and on the bottom you will just have to wait until something takes the bait. You will know when something takes your bait it will pick it up and run with it. You will want to let the shark or fish it all the bait so give it team then you will want to set the hook. After the hook is set you will want to just let the fish run and do its thing until it is tired then you can either reel them in or it will be a fight to last for hours. I have friends that have fought sharks for hours and haven't even caught them that are how big and gnarly they were. What are you waiting for, get out there and experience them for yourself.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more shark fishing as well as saltwater fishing gear at http://www.nsearch.com

Why More Fishing Enthusiasts Are Practicing Catch and Release Fishing

Since many people catch and keep their fish many anglers are starting to do catch and release fishing to save the fish and let them expand more and more. Most people will fish out a spot and there will be no more fish, if you just release a fish every few trips you are saving a fish or two every time you go out fishing. The catch and release is a good method of fishing and should be done by other anglers around so you can grow more fish to catch. The more fish there are the more bites you will get.

When you are fishing you want to try and hook the fish when you set the hook in their mouth so you don't hurt them badly like hooking them in their gills or gut will cause death and more and more death will lead to extinction. So when you are fishing wait for the fish to take the bait then set the hook and tries to set it in the mouth of the fish even though you will not be able to see through the water.

Fish are things that live in the water so when you hold them out of the water when releasing them you are just risking their lives since they can only breathe in water. You will want to avoid holding the fish out of the water for too long since they will need to breathe in the water. They also have a protective film on their bodies so when you catch them avoid touching the bodies of the fish as that is their defense mechanism. You will want to either grab them through the gills or in the mouth for a safe release.

When you are fishing the fish is fighting you so when it is fighting it is building up lactic acid which can be harmful to the fish days later. So when you are fighting a fish you will want to give them as less of a struggle as possible so they wont build up that nasty acid and so it will not harm them in the later days. You just need to remember when you are releasing a fish do not hold them out of the water for too long because that is how they breathe and you just want to gander at them for a second and not hold them out of the water too long. Every second that you hold them out of the water is another second that is close to them suffocating. So be careful when fishing and releasing your fish that you catch. You will also need to take care when releasing them just give them a few swishes in the water before you let them go let them get some breathes in before you drop them in the water as they still may be in shock that they are out of the water being hooked by something really sharp.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more fishing as well as fishing gear at http://www.nsearch.com
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How To Choose The Best Time Of The Year To Go Bass Fishing

Bass fishing is just one of the many types of fishing. You can find bass in rivers, lakes, streams, fresh water, and salt water basically anywhere that there is water you can find bass to catch. As long as there is food, oxygen, and cover there will be bass present when you are fishing. If you are fishing in a river with a lot of mangrove cover and trees with roots digging into the ground you will find and catch bass.

Even though a bass loves crawfish and it's the favorite of the bass they will eat anything from snakes to rats and that's not listing all the things in between like insects, mice, lizards just anything that could fall in the water a bass would more then likely eat.

If you want to find the right bass hole then you need to get a depth finder and all the gadgets so you know how cool the water is and how deep you are. Bass want the water to be cool because cooler water equals more bass since they thrive in the cooler water that has more oxygen in it. If you were to go fishing in the spring or early summer you might catch a few but from September to about November you should be catching bass like crazy if you are in good cool water temps.

A bass is like a hunter, they will ambush the food in which they are trying to get and eat. For a bass to live it needs to be in cover and if they feel like they are able to be seen easy they will move to get better cover. Cover is the main thing to a bass if it thinks that another fish can spot him out and see him he will move to better cover. They want to take good cover because that is their nature to be an ambusher that is the only way that they can catch their food because in their little habitat they are pretty big fish that can be seen fairly good.

So if you are trying to catch bass you need to think like a bass and fish where there is lots of cover and shade and where you know that they are and where they would hide. If you go in the middle of summer then you are not likely to catch any bass and are only going to sweat and not catch anything at all. You want to fish for bass in the cooler months of the year so they are in well cooled water and can take cover. The more oxygen the cooler the water that is what a bass is always looking for is more oxygen. Where you find a drop in temperature is where you will find big fat bass just hiding and taking cover.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more about bass fishing as well as freshwater fishing equipment at http://www.nsearch.com

The How To Guide To Chumming

The basic idea behind chumming is to encourage fish to eat something with no hooks attached in the hope that they will later take something with a hook. Chumming also attracts fish in large numbers to a certain spot. Instead of the angler moving about in search of fish, he can stay in one spot and wait for the fish to come to him. Mainly, however, the idea is to fool the fish with a free handout and dispel his suspicions so that he will more readily take a baited hook.

Various methods and techniques are used in chumming, and the angler who knows and practices them will often catch fish when ordinary casting or trolling methods fail to produce. You'll find a long list of game fish and bottom fish which respond to chumming like a gang of hungry ranch hands to a dinner bell. In fact, to catch certain fish chumming is almost a must.

Take the giant tuna, for example. Although a few big fish are caught by trolling or drifting with whole fish baits, the great majority of tuna fishermen depend on chumming to get results. They use ground menhaden or mossbunker, called "bunker" for short.

This flat, deep bodied fish, which averages about a foot in length, is seined commercially for its oil. Millions of pounds are caught annually. And each year more and more of these fish are being diverted for use in chumming. In three days, the U. S. Atlantic Tuna Tournament has been known to use up 85,000 lbs. of bunker chum.

Menhaden or bunker can now be bought fresh, iced or frozen, either by the bushel or in cans or blocks. Whole bunker are sold by the bushel and must be ground by the angler. Those sold in cans or frozen in blocks are already ground and ready to use. The usual method of chumming begins with the acquisition of a big container, such as a garbage can, filled with sea water.

The ground mossbunker is then added and the whole mess is stirred around until it is the consistency of a thick soup. Then one or two anglers start ladling the stuff over the side of the boat in order to form a chum slick. In this slick, the oil spreads in a broad band on the surface of the water and extends for several hundred feet behind the boat. The particles of bunker sink to varying depths under the chum slick. Tuna and other fish get the scent of the oil and juices and follow it up to the boat.

Most tuna fishermen also get whole bunker and cut them into big chunks, which they toss overboard into the chum slick as an added attraction. Butterfish, mackerel, herring and whiting can also be cut up and thrown out. This gives the tuna something to swallow and holds their interest.

Next, of course, you bait up a big tuna hook with a whole bunker, herring, mackerel, butterfish or whiting and let it drift out naturally in the chum line. Finally you hope a big tuna will take it.

Whole bait fish are also used on the "live-bait" boats which leave from many ports in Southern California. These boats are equipped with big bait tanks, where sardines and anchovies can be kept alive. The live bait fish are thrown into the water a few at a time.

This brings around such game fish as tuna, yellowtail, albacore, bonito and barracuda. When a fish is hooked or seen swirling behind the boat, the anglers put a live anchovy or sardine on a hook, cast it out and let it swim around in the water. In this type of fishing, it is important to use small hooks and fine leaders in order to fool the fish.

This method is tried and true, and used correctly, will produce marvelous results!

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Lake Erie Walleye Fishing Charters to Choose From

Lake Erie walleye fishing charters are available to help you to enjoy the fish filled waters of this favorite lake of many anglers.

There are plenty of great charters to select from when you want to enjoy walleye fishing on this lake. In fact, no matter which state or city you are coming from off the lake, chances are there is a great fishing charter available to you.

There are so many reputable charter companies who do an excellent job providing fishing trips for their clients, and it is always a great idea to choose one of the reputable charter companies that have withstood the test of time when you are planning a fishing trip. This advice stands for fishermen of all skills and experience levels as well.

From the novice to the most experienced angler, a well chosen fishing expedition at the hands of skilled professionals can make the difference between an enjoyable, successful adventure and one that is less than enjoyable.

To ensure one of the most successful charters available, stick with reputable charter companies such as Lake Erie Ohio Walleye Fishing Charters.

This charter specializes in helping anglers achieve their dreams of trophy sized catches of steelhead, perch, and walleye on Lake Erie, with a focus on safety.

This charter boat and crew are on the lake every single day, and feel confident that they have what it takes to get you on the water and get the trophy catch you dream of in the boat! For more information, you can go to www.walleyecharter.com and check out the website for Trophy Charter Boat Fishing, and Captain Keith Unkefer's 41 foot Viking Yacht simply named "Pooh Bear".

Another reputable Lake Erie fishing charter is JTCharters. Lake Erie Fishing Charters, Captain Tucholski and crew have a proven success record of providing anglers with satisfying charter trips on Lake Erie to catch walleye, small mouth bass, and perch. This is a full time, year round, charter that is family owned and operated.

Nothing beats experience, and this charter boasts over twenty-five years of experience right there on Lake Erie. Especially if you only get an opportunity to fish a couple of times a year, a charter will provide you with the optimum experience available without your having the expense and work of maintaining your own fishing vessel and equipment.

This charter company states that their objective is to provide customers with such a great fishing experience that they come back year after year for a repeat performance.

Another good choice when planning a fishing trip on Lake Erie is Wanna Walleye Charters. This charter welcomes beginners as well as experienced anglers, and states that they have fished this Walleye Capitol (Lake Erie) of the world long enough and well enough to provide anglers with the best experience possible whether you are planning a solitary get away, a fishing trip with business associates, or a family affair.

They provide state of the art electronics and fishing gear aboard their clean and comfortable thirty foot Sportscraft. They have private toilets and other amenities for your comfort, as well as being inspected for safety by the coast guard.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/editorials/choose-lake-erie-walleye-fishing-charters.html for more information on Lake Erie walleye fishing.

How To Catch The Monsters Off The Coast Of California

Stretching up half of the western coast of the United States, California has always been a main hub for fishing. Not only do the waters of the Pacific Ocean push up against the California shores, there are also numerous vessels that are available to take anglers out even further away from land.

California fishermen haul in 300 species from the waters of the Pacific each year. However, some of these fish are more frequently sought (and harder to land) than others.

One of the most popular species of fish that is sought in the waters of the Pacific is the California halibut. They can be found year-round in the sand and muddy bottoms of the coastal waters.

They are typically found about 300 feet deep, all the way down the California coast. Each year, California fishermen land approximately 1.1 million pounds of this particular type of halibut.

The fish can get up to 60 pounds, though they are usually between 15 and 30. Because the California halibut is a predator, it especially is attracted to live bait, namely anchovies, sardines, and queenfish (also known as herring).

The standard recommendation is to use a 10 or 12 lb. monofilament and to trim off about two or three feet of line for the leader.

Another popular fish that is frequently caught in California is the Pacific mackerel, which is also called the blue mackerel.

These fish can be found up and down the entire west coast and can often be found in dense schools as a defense against predators. Most Pacific mackerel do not exceed 16 inches in length (and about two pounds), which results in most of the catch being canned for human consumption.

This type of mackerel is extremely common at most of the piers in California, specifically Redondo Beach (near L.A.) and Newport Beach.

The most effective bait is usually live bait, specifically sardines. However, when there is a school around who is hungry, they may go for any type of live bait you cast out. Interestingly, they also tend to be attracted to mackerel as a bait or even a small strip of squid.

The most common rigging is usually a single hook. The line is weighted as little as possible, sometimes with only a small twist-on sinker. They are fairly squirmy fish, which means that they will twist and turn, generally making a mess of your line if you're not careful.

Another interesting thing to remember when fishing for Pacific mackerel is that they are attracted to light shining into the water, which makes them one of the best fish to try and catch at night.

Rockfish are a family of fish that are frequently caught off the coast of California. There are 59 smaller species of fish that counted in the family of rockfish, including yellowtail and boccaccio.

Though many species of rockfish are more common to the Atlantic Ocean, several of the rockfish family are popular in the waters of the Pacific as well. As with most other species, live bait is preferable to artificial bait, particularly sardines and anchovies.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltwaterfishing.com/editorials/california-saltwater-fishing.html for more information on California saltwater fishing.

How To Catch Walleye In Lake of the Woods

Are you considering a trip to Lake of the Woods Walleye Fishing location? This is a great way for you to get away and spend some time enjoying the fresh air and definitely great fishing. Before visiting, be sure that you know what to expect when you come. The good news is that for most anglers, this is an ideal fishing location and one that will become a long term favorite for you.

Lake of the Woods, in Minnesota, borders Canada, It has approximately 65,000 shoreline miles. It is 90 miles long and 55 miles wide. There are 14,582 islands which have the rocky outcroppings and shores in which walleye thrive. It is known as the Walleye fishing capitol of the world, and for good reason! Lake of the Woods is one of the best sites for walleye fishing anywhere in the world! There are a multitude of walleye fishing packages from all inclusive packages for family fun and entertainment to trips where roughing it for serious anglers is the order of the day.

Walleye fishing charters are an experience of a lifetime on Lake of the Woods. Whether you do the research on your own or rely on a travel agent to do the work for you, you are sure to find the fishing experience for which you yearn on Lake of the Woods.

With walleye fishing good enough to produce nice limits of eating fish right into the coldest months of winter, Lake of the Woods is an all time favorite of fishermen all over the country. Creeks and bays are particularly good sites for wintertime walleye fishing. The south shore of Lake of the Woods is known for trophy size walleye. During the winter, fishermen can happily ice fish all day long (or even all night with the proper fishing houses) for walleye.

During the early months of the summer season, if you are fishing The Lake of the Woods for walleye, consider fishing the shallows of the rocks and reef areas. Particularly good are the areas of about ten to fifteen feet deep. Use minnows and night crawlers along the island and Northwest angle for a superb catch using natural bait.

In spring, consider fishing Lake of the Woods for walleye close to Franz Jevne State Park, and you are sure to catch your limit as the walleye are in a prespawn state at this time. As always, minnow and night crawlers are good bait choices as are spoons and spinners.

During the early spring, your most productive time for fishing will probably be in the warmth of the day, but in the mornings while you are waiting for things to heat up a bit, just try fishing a bit deeper. Your best bet will be fishing from the first break line. If you choose locations such as island and mainland shore lines which provide rocky structure, you should have good luck.

Choose spinner rigs, and use a bottom bouncer there for optimal results when fishing early mornings during the spring at Lake of the Woods. When you are bouncing for fish during the spring months on Lake of the Woods, choose something similar to a St. Croiz TC76LM. Use a flipping switch so you can easily control your depth, and choose a fast tip, so you can feel even the slightest nibble on your line.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/editorials/lake-of-the-woods-walleye-fishing.html for more information on Lake of the Woods walleye fishing.

The Key to Finding a Good Bass Fishing Guide

A good bass fishing guide is the ultimate companion. No matter how experienced you are, you could always learn something from another individual that has experience in the hobby, whether he or she is a professional or simply goes to the local lake when they have a spare day.

Everyone's bass fishing experience is different and we all learn different things that can help to improve our style and/or technique. Contributing to our individual knowledge of fishing can always help us to catch more bass!

Before looking for a good guide, you should initially determine what level of fisherman or woman you are. This does not really matter in the case of an expert, but it does matter if you are just starting out or have been fishing recreationally for less than a year because expert guides will be too complex if you do not have a mastery of the basics just yet. This will limit the range of good bass fishing guides that you can go for, but an expert can choose from any and all bass fishing guides out there today!

You should then decide where you are to get your book from. You will find many different guides on the Internet and in bookstores. The former can be regular books or ebook, whilst the latter is just limited to regular books. It largely depends on the nature of the book that you want.

If you want it in a more easy to read form then you should probably take a look at ebooks, but if you prefer having something bound to hold in your hand then a regular book it is. This choice is largely down to personal preference. However, you may want to take a look on the Internet regardless of what type of book you actually want. The Internet has a much wider range of material available because Internet stores can obviously carry much larger volumes of books than regular bookstores.

In order to find a list of possible bass fishing guides, you can either go straight to a huge online store like Amazon, or you could use a search engine and look through the results in your own time. It is unlikely that you will find good bass fishing guides in ebook form from a huge online bookstore!

When looking for a good bass fishing guide, you should not pick books at random because you will almost certainly end up with a turkey! The best selling books are also not always the best, but how else will you find a good guide that can supplement your knowledge of fishing? The best thing to do is ask around. Ask those individuals you know that also enjoy fishing if they can recommend any good bass fishing guides or if they at least know a good author.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best bass fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askbassfishing.com/editorials/key-to-finding-a-good-bass-fishing-guide.html for more information on bass fishing guides.

Catfish Fishing Basics For Beginners

The common idea of catfishing is sitting on a bank in a lawn chair with poles and a case of drinks. This method can produce fish at times, nevertheless, in order to catch catfish all day, all night and all year requires a bit more knowledge and finesse.

By necessity, this information will be very general. Each body of water has its own unique quirks, and it helps to know the waters you are fishing in. What works in Alabama may work differently in Maine or Texas.

There are 39 species of catfish in North America, but only three are of any importance to fisherman. They are the Blue Catfish (Ictalurus furcatas), the Flathead, or Yellow Catfish (Pylodictus olivares), and the Channel Catfish (Ictalurus puctatus). The other species are of little concern because of their small size or limited distribution.

All catfish share some basic anatomical features. They all have "whiskers" which are actually very sensitive sensory organs, an incredible sense of smell that can detect food concentrations of as little as one part per million, and 'taste-buds' along the entire length of their body.

They all have sharp, mildly venomous spines on each pectoral fin and on the dorsal fin. The venom is not normally harmful to humans, but if it stings too much for you, here is a little known trick to make it go away. Simply rub the catfish's tail over the wound and it will stop hurting. The mucous that all catfish secrete has an antidote for the venom in it.

Blue Catfish are primarily big-river fish indigenous to the Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi River systems, ranging from Virginia south through Tennessee, western North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, east Texas, east Mexico and Guatemala.

They are popular 'stockers' in pay lakes. Blue Catfish differ from the other two species in that they are active and aggressive in the winter. Blue Catfish run large, up to 100 pounds and more. 50 pounders are not uncommon.

In appearance, they are heavy-bodied, but streamlined. They are slate blue on the back and sides fading to white on the belly, with no markings of any kind. They have a deeply forked tail and 30-35 rays on the anal fin. Smaller specimens are often confused with Channel Catfish where their habitats overlap.

Blue Catfish spawn when the water temperature reaches 70-75 degrees F. They lay their eggs under logs, brush, debris, or along undercut banks without making a nest of any kind. Blue Catfish prefer sandy bottoms and moderate current.

The largest specimens are usually caught on trotlines using live bluegills, goldfish or other baitfish. They can be caught on cut-bait, nightcrawlers and 'stink-bait' as well. They are active feeders all year long and make wonderful table-fare.

The Yellow, or Flathead Catfish range from the lower Great Lakes south through the Mississippi River Basin all the way to the Gulf States. In size, Yellow Catfish can reach lengths of 3-4 feet and 100 pounds or more. Fish in the 50 pound range are not uncommon. As the name suggests, they have an angular, 'flat' head and no fork in the tail.

They are actually members of the bullhead family of catfish. Their color ranges from yellow to olive brown on the back and sides with much black or brown mottling, fading to pale yellow or cream colored on the belly.

Flathead Catfish spawn when the water temperature reaches 72-84 degrees F. They build nests in structure such as rocks, undercut banks and large bottom debris, logs, old tires, etc.

Yellow Catfish prefer deep holes in streams, rivers and lakes where the water is turbid and has slower currents. More so than the other two species, Flatheads are pure predators and eat fish, including their own kind. The largest fish are invariably caught on trotlines using live bluegills, where legal. They are active feeders at night in the spring and summer and are good eating.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/catfish-anytime-anyplace.html for more information on fishing for catfish.

Fishing For Flathead Catfish: What Makes Them Different?

Catfish fishing is an exciting experience for just about any angler, especially those that are new and fresh to the fishing experience. It has long held a place of happiness with many anglers as their favorites.

One of the first things that you will notice about catfish fishing is that there are many great species out there to enjoy fishing. We highly suggest giving any and all of them a try because each offers a new experience and provides you with a different method to catching them.

Before you start fishing for catfish, take the time to find out what type of catfish you have in the location you will be fishing. It pays to learn this so that you can tailor your bait, your fishing equipment and even your fishing line to those fish. Many people see a very large difference in the way these fish behave, others do not.

The main differences in catching flathead catfish is the flathead species of catfish are not always in the same locations you will find other species of catfish. Another difference is that flathead tend to live their whole lives near the same places. Spawning grounds and territorial habitat are often in the same small area of water.

This makes flathead catfish very territorial, and they will defend their home territory from any other fish including other flathead. This tendency to remain in one small location makes flathead cat aggressive biters, and makes them respond very well to live bait, since any other living creatures they very likely will view as interlopers, causing them to aggressively defend their territory. Flathead are even know to eat other catfish.

The best months to catch flathead are May through the earlier portion of the month of June and then the catch picks up once more in July all the way to September. Remember if the water temperatures are anywhere from about 58 to 75 degrees, you should find it easy to catch flathead, particularly if you remember to fish the bottom when or where the fish are out of direct sunlight.

Particularly if you are fishing for large flathead, it is always productive to capitalize on the fish being territorial by fishing with live bait such as smaller fish that inhabit their territory. Shad, carp, and other types of fish that would feed on the eggs of the flathead are good choices.

Another difference when fishing for flathead catfish is that flathead do not tend to get as large as some other species of catfish. Don't let this make you think they will not give as good a fight, because the opposite is often true. These fish are ferocious, energetic fighters able to give any angler a respectable tousle.

Most fishermen tend to believe that nighttime is the very best time to catch catfish. Those accustomed to fishing for flathead cat will likely tell you different stories depending on which catfish angler you are speaking with and the areas in which they are accustomed to fishing. Some will tell you that, as is the case with most catfish, the best time to catch flathead cat is at night. Others will say it is during the daylight hours that flathead will be the most easily caught.

Fishing during the day is particularly productive for the months of May into the earliest part of June and in July all the way into September. Just remember, if you are fishing during the daylight hours, to fish the bottom of your fishing hole, paying particularly close attention to submerged structure, slow moving areas such as coves, and use live bait when it is at all possible.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/fishing-for-flathead-catfish.html for more information on fishing for flathead catfish.

Fishing For Flathead Catfish: What Makes Them Different?

Catfish fishing is an exciting experience for just about any angler, especially those that are new and fresh to the fishing experience. It has long held a place of happiness with many anglers as their favorites.

One of the first things that you will notice about catfish fishing is that there are many great species out there to enjoy fishing. We highly suggest giving any and all of them a try because each offers a new experience and provides you with a different method to catching them.

Before you start fishing for catfish, take the time to find out what type of catfish you have in the location you will be fishing. It pays to learn this so that you can tailor your bait, your fishing equipment and even your fishing line to those fish. Many people see a very large difference in the way these fish behave, others do not.

The main differences in catching flathead catfish is the flathead species of catfish are not always in the same locations you will find other species of catfish. Another difference is that flathead tend to live their whole lives near the same places. Spawning grounds and territorial habitat are often in the same small area of water.

This makes flathead catfish very territorial, and they will defend their home territory from any other fish including other flathead. This tendency to remain in one small location makes flathead cat aggressive biters, and makes them respond very well to live bait, since any other living creatures they very likely will view as interlopers, causing them to aggressively defend their territory. Flathead are even know to eat other catfish.

The best months to catch flathead are May through the earlier portion of the month of June and then the catch picks up once more in July all the way to September. Remember if the water temperatures are anywhere from about 58 to 75 degrees, you should find it easy to catch flathead, particularly if you remember to fish the bottom when or where the fish are out of direct sunlight.

Particularly if you are fishing for large flathead, it is always productive to capitalize on the fish being territorial by fishing with live bait such as smaller fish that inhabit their territory. Shad, carp, and other types of fish that would feed on the eggs of the flathead are good choices.

Another difference when fishing for flathead catfish is that flathead do not tend to get as large as some other species of catfish. Don't let this make you think they will not give as good a fight, because the opposite is often true. These fish are ferocious, energetic fighters able to give any angler a respectable tousle.

Most fishermen tend to believe that nighttime is the very best time to catch catfish. Those accustomed to fishing for flathead cat will likely tell you different stories depending on which catfish angler you are speaking with and the areas in which they are accustomed to fishing. Some will tell you that, as is the case with most catfish, the best time to catch flathead cat is at night. Others will say it is during the daylight hours that flathead will be the most easily caught.

Fishing during the day is particularly productive for the months of May into the earliest part of June and in July all the way into September. Just remember, if you are fishing during the daylight hours, to fish the bottom of your fishing hole, paying particularly close attention to submerged structure, slow moving areas such as coves, and use live bait when it is at all possible.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/fishing-for-flathead-catfish.html for more information on fishing for flathead catfish.

How To Catch Catfish Through The Ice

Ice fishing is a fun way to spend the winter, especially up in the frozen northern states and Canada. Ice fishing for catfish is an especially big challenge for a hearty cat-fisherman. Those cats are still there, way down under the ice, and they still need to eat! Most ice fishers find that when they score, they score big. You have a good chance of catching a huge blue cat who's hanging around at the bottom waiting for the ice to thaw.

There are several challenges to ice fishing for cats. First off, catfish are less active in the winter time. This means you really have to find out where they are, and get your bait right in front of them. This is one reason why many ice fishers like to go for catfish in farmed ponds. In the winter time, you have to know exactly the deepest spot in the lake, and with a man-made pond stocked with cats, it's easy to find out.

For a regular lake, you'll need to probably take some samples unless you know the lake inside and out. With ice fishing, it's not as simple as just picking up and moving to another spot if they aren't biting. You need to know that it's a good spot before you start fishing. One way to do this is to drill a few holes and use a depth finder to find the deepest spot. The very bottom is where the big cats will be lurking.

For bait, you can always go with whatever you use during the warmer seasons. During the winter, catfish are mostly eating grub worms, so if you really want to increase your chances of catching a fat cat, go with something like that.

The main thing is to put your hook right on the lake floor, and leave it there. Don't move it too much, just let it sit, and when he bites, the fight begins!

Good Catfish Ice Fishing Gear

Because we're dealing with the depths here, it's always good to have a rod with an extra sensitive tip. It will be really tough to tell when you've got a bite, especially for first time ice fishers. You also want a rod that has some serious backbone. You're liable to catch a big one, and he's not going to want to come out of that hole in the ice!

You'll also need things to keep warm. Don't try to be a tough guy. Get some hand warmers, a nice bucket to sit on, a good heavy coat, and keep in mind that you're going to be spending some time out in the cold. Also take an ice auger, ice picks and a sled if you are going way out on the lake. The ice auger is needed to cut through the ice. Ice picks come in handy for a variety of things, and the sled can be used to haul stuff out onto the lake and back.

If you really want to go all out, invest in an ice shelter. You can get your own ice fishing house, complete with a propane heating stove, that you can flip up and take back down when you're finished. The disadvantage of an ice shelter is that it's tough to move around, and it can be a pain if you want to try a different spot. On the other hand, it can keep you toasty warm and maybe keep you out on the ice longer. Tell your wife it's for your own safety, and I'm sure she'll go along with it!

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/catching-catfish-through-the-ice.html for more information on ice fishing for catfish.

Can You Really Catch Catfish With Your Hands?

Catching catfish by hand is a long standing practice that dates back to when the Native American population caught them that way. It used to be a must, of course, before the types of fishing equipment we commonly think of came into existence. Even with rudimentary fishing equipment, people still used methods of catfish fishing by hand.

Today, you are likely to see even more people searching for this seemingly new method of fishing for catfish. Anglers are often challenged in a unique way by this method of fishing. Most often, people are looking for a new way to simply get fish in hand. NO matter why you want to go catfish fishing by hand, chances are you will enjoy the process.

The popularity of the sport has grown, and has gotten a considerable amount of publicity since it was legalized in Missouri. Be aware, it is not as easy as it sounds. It is most definitely a sport to try though, especially if your passion is catfish.

There are currently eleven states that have legalized catfishing by hand, or 'noodling' as it is commonly called. Those eleven states include Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Kentucky.

The way in which catfishing by hand is carried out is somewhat interesting, to say the least. In hand fishing, the fisherman actually goes out into the water, dives down, and reaches into likely areas to find his prey, and haul it, by hand, out of the water. The only special equipment needed for handfishing is gloves that help protect fishermen from the rows of sharp teeth in a catfish's mouth. Advocates state that this is a traditional method of fishing for catfish dating back to our native American roots, while others are alarmed by the often dangerous practice.

Many people who practice handfishing, or noodling, actually plant boxes in catfish rich areas, in which they hope to entice catfish to spawn. Others simply rely on the natural spawning grounds to attract these catfish. The catfish in turn spawn in these areas, leaving mature males to guard their nest. The handfishermen then dive down to likely areas such as submerged hollow logs, rocky outcroppings, or underwater caves. They reach inside these areas, hoping to find catfish there, allow these fish to bite down on their arms, and physically pull them from their nest. They then wrestle them to the bank.

Those who oppose the practice site that it is dangerous and causes many injuries to those who partake in this sport. Indeed, it does cause numerous injuries. Perhaps the worst possibility is that you might find something other than catfish in the area in which you search. Many handfishermen find the snakes, snapping turtles, or even alligators that also inhabit these areas rather than the catfish they are seeking. In fact, most people who have noodled for catfish bear the proof on their flesh. Scars and missing digits are not uncommon sights in noodlers.

Those who oppose the practice of hand fishing state that, since regulations state that since only mature catfish may be caught when noodling, this type of fishing might deplete the catfish population. Most states do have regulations on the size of catfish which can be caught when noodling, but the fact is that the spawning grounds of catfish are always heavily fished by fishermen, and there is absolutely no evidence what so ever that the practice of handfishing for catfish has depleted the catfish population.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/catfish-fishing-by-hand.html for more information on catfish fishing by hand.

Catfish Fishing Pole - Types and Reviews

Does it matter what type of catfish fishing pole you are using? Some may tell you no, but that depends on your skill, your location and the fish you are after. The fact is, there are benefits of several types available to you when you take advantage of the right fishing pole. A pole designed for catfish is designed to give you the best results possible. Here's what you need to know.

There are a wide variety of rods with which you may catch catfish very effectively. The choices should be based on factors such as cost, where you will be fishing, your size and capabilities, personal preference, and how much you will be using your pole. Anything from your classic cane pole to sophisticated and expensive rod and reel outfits may be used to fish for catfish.

Fishing poles are classically made of fiberglass or bamboo, but some really great poles have recently been made of graphite. Bamboo rods may be superb hand made fly fishing rods, simple cane poles without reels, or anything in between. Fiberglass poles are very popular with most novice fishermen. They are comparatively low cost, they require very little upkeep, and they are not easily broken.

They are probably the most popular type of fishing pole available, especially for the novice. Graphite has become an exceptionally popular pole. The biggest selling point for graphite is that it is so strong that it rarely breaks. It requires next to no maintenance, and it is very light.

It is largely a matter of personal preference, but if you are armed with a few suggestions and a little bit of information, you will be one very big step closer to choosing the pole that is right for you, and will provide a quality catfishing experience for you.

Sturdy rods that are shorter in length are usually used for trolling and bigger fish. Longer poles are helpful if you need to cast your line longer distances. Be sure you can handle the size of rod you choose, because if your rod is too long for you to be comfortable when you handle it, you will tire, and your fishing experience will not be satisfying. Since catfish tend to be large, if you only intend to have one pole, opt for a shorter, sturdier rod.

Some really popular poles with which to catch catfish are Shakespeare Ugly sticks, which are extremely popular and come in a variety of styles and sizes. For fishing the bank, Catfish getters are state of the art. Made of fiberglass, this new lightweight pole comes with line, sinker, swivel, and hook. They are specially designed to stick the end of the pole into the ground or affix to trees or logs, and fishing is a snap! These poles are not only light weight, they are quite visible even at night!

Another quality pole that deserves to be mentioned by name is the Quantum Big Cat. Anytime you are out to catch large fish, be it cat or any other type, or if you are fishing in rivers with strong currents, these big cat rods really do a great job. Big Cats are available in three different types. There is a heavy, a medium heavy, and a medium strength.

Each one of these is seven and a half feet long. They all have cork handles and many other amenities including the fact that they are sturdy enough to handle really big fish and saltwater. These catfish worthy rods are surely among the most well respected rods on the market, and they are priced quite nicely at about $40 each. For spin anglers, there is even a spinning type of Big Cat available!

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best catfish fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcatfishfishing.com/editorials/catfish-fishing-pole-types-and-reviews.html for more information on catfish fishing pole reviews.
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How To Haul In Hundreds Of Crappie In The Springtime

Yes that is Crappie Spring. If you time it right you'll think you have a bunch of crappie jumping on a spring just to get out of the water. In the middle of the United States this time occurs in early to mid May. Spring crappie fishing is a lot about timing but consider other items such as bait fish, other food, water temperature, type of crappie and shelter among other things.

Let me start with the first and that is timing in the spring, do not wait for a specific time. In the spring the fish are starting to get active and are really thinking about spawning. Spawning really occurs when the water temperatures reach about 63 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will vary slightly depending on the area and species but look for waters approaching that temperature at a depth of three to 12 feet.

As I have preached time and time again look for vegetation and sunken brush. This provides shelter and food for crappie. The loose soil and brushy areas provide shelter. Do not ever forget this as it is what the crappie world revolves around. We have found that Christmas trees work really well when sunk in about six to nine feet of water. We have used cinder blocks or other various blocks of concrete to weigh them down. Sink these in the fall and look for some minor activity the next spring but the one after that will be even better. The rotting materials provide a food source for the new crappie that are coming in the spring, not because of the plant material but the other life that feeds on it.

Just a few words of caution when building crappie beds like this, some areas consider this illegal. Also be sure that there is no decoration left on it as it might cause harm to the habitat and possibly the crappie. In one area we would sink trees and bales of hay with concrete blocks that we would mark with empty jugs tied to the concrete. After many months we would raise the concrete blocks and slowly drag the sunken and water logged brush to a desired area. We would mark this area on a map or in some areas we put markers on the shore that with some skillful compass work you could find the perfect spot. Spawning is so important that we base our crappie season and bed structure around it but be sure to check with your local laws before attempting any of these suggestions.

While we are talking about spawning let us talk about shelter as well. Crappies like to spawn in areas where there is structure. This provides shelter from many predators as well as from currents. But not all predators are excluded from the shelter so keep this in mind for a later point. Also look for loose gravel and muddy lake or river bottoms as the crappie will make a nest in these areas well if the currents and depth are right. These bare nests, in my experience, are rare but do happen when there are a lot of crappies in the area competing for nesting spots

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best crappie fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcrappiefishing.com/editorials/crappie-spring.html for more information on crappie fishing.

Popular Walleye Fishing Rods Reviewed

One of the most vital pieces of fishing equipment you will ever own is your rod. Choosing one is a matter of personal preference. When it comes to walleye fishing, look for a rod that is fast acting. In terms of size, the rod should fall between six feet and six _ feet in length. The base should range somewhere between 3/8" and 5/16".

Locating a food source, taking a bite and then snatching it up takes all of about _ of a second for a walleye. This requires nothing short of a fast action rod to snap up the fish before your bait disappears. To ensure you are purchasing an effective fast action rod, snap it from side to side in the store. The rod should remain stiff with no detectable bending movement present. This stiffness leads to more sensitivity that will allow you to better navigate your line. This will have you seeking out Walleye in virtually every hiding spot along the water.

Let us look at some of the more popular walleye fishing rods to see what they have to offer.

Shimano Compre Spinning Rods

The Shimano Compre Spinning Rod series comes to life from IM-8 graphite material. The numbers fall within the ideal ranges in terms of a walleye fishing rod. In length, the rods are 6 feet, 6 inches long and maintain a line weight between 10 to 20 pounds. Lure weight comes in the range of _ ounce to 1 ounce. With an action ranking of very fast, this series of rods start at a price of $79.99. Breaking the impression of being a reel company, Shimano went the extra distance to prove critics wrong. These rods contain composite cork butt caps, gold inserts and a dark cherry finish.

Pros: Right off the bat, two of the best features for this rod series is the warranty and the price. Shimano provides anglers who purchase from this rod series an over the counter limited lifetime warranty policy. If at any time something should go wrong or the rod stops functioning all together, an angler simply visits the nearest fishing retailer carrying Shimano products to receive an immediate replacement rod. There are no gimmicks involved. No questions asked. The angler is back on the water in no time.

Where price is concerned, the $79.99 retail price for this rod series virtually cannot be beat. Another key feature of the series is the exposed blank setting. This allows an angler to reach deep lengths of structures without the hassle of hitting other structures along the way. The rod itself is fast acting which provides for quick, focused long distance casting and accurate navigation between structures.

Cons: Sensitivity in the rod related to a typical IM-8 rod. Although the Fuji reel seat offers up an aerodynamic effect and presents a perfect fit on the rod, the sensitivity provided by this layout falls just shy of other rods in the same market. Many other walleye fishing rods in the specialty rods division market provide higher levels of sensitivity in feeling line movement. Walleye fish strike a line fast and furious leaving little or no time for reaction by the angler. Therefore, the slight lack of sensitivity in this rod hinders it from being the best walleye rod on the market.

Lamiglas G1000 Graphite Spinning Rods

The Lamiglas G1000 Graphite Spinning rod series utilizes graphite material to create a lightweight, durable yet effective walleye fishing rod. In size, this series comes in at 7 feet 6 inches long with a line weight capacity of 10 to 30 pounds. Lure weight handling is anywhere from one to 8 ounces. There are a minimum of seven guides plus the tip in this rod series. In addition, the action rating is moderate fast and prices start at $210.00 retail.

Pros: The most attractive benefit to this rod series is the multi talented aspects presented in use. The stiff tip application allows for extra strength when casting into heavy currents or reeling in a large size walleye. There is tremendous capacity for casting heavy weights and lures for long distances. The extended cork handle provides the right setting to maintain control when reeling in even the biggest walleye. Another key benefit is the strength accounted for in the blank. This allows for quick loads and equally quicker retrievals. The blank feature of this rod series can handle quite a bit of weight load and still be effective in the process.

Cons: The only drawback to this walleye rod series is the lack of a Fuji reel seat. This lighter weight option allows for more ease in use. The overall design of a Fuji reel seat allows for comfortable gripping and increased stability when casting and retrieving a line. After a long day of fishing, this is a welcomed helping hand for weary anglers.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/editorials/popular-walleye-fishing-rods-reviewed.html for more information on walleye fishing rods.

How To Haul In Monster Crappie On Reel Foot Lake

Reelfoot Lake is a natural lake that is in northern Tennessee and more specifically in Fulton county. It was once the only commercially fished lake for crappie. With this said it would might be easy to find a decent crappie in the lake's various coves and other holes. This particular lake looks like a reservoir for good reason. It is suggested in the annals of history that the Mississippi river flowed backwards after an earthquake to fill this shallow valley with water. Regardless of how the lake was formed we know that it is a great source for crappie.

The best crappie fishing will be found in late April or early May. With that said let me focus on the other times of the year first and save the best for last.

Let us start with late winter and early spring on Reelfoot, this is a shallow lake, at most 18 foot deep, and these deep areas are where the crappie are going to spend the winter. To fish these waters during this time of year it is important to know what the temperature of the water is. For crappie 50 degrees seems to be a magic number, warmer temperatures and they are super active and colder they turn into a couch potatoes. Use large jigs or minnows during these colder times. Most of this lake is a shallow lake so look for the ledges. I know that these really don't exist on this lake but you can always hope. The whole trick is to follow the bait fish but knowing that some of the edges or coves might have warmer waters during the day the bait fish are looking for a constant temperature.

Before the spring spawning try to catch the crappie in the deeper waters so stick to the center of the lake or just at the mouth of the coves. On other lakes in the late winter or early spring I have had great luck fishing right were the plant life begins in the cove. Bait fish will go where they can find food and plant life is often a good indicator of that food.

Once spring has set in, late April or early May, you should start to move your crappie fishing to the shores where the water temperatures are about 60 degrees. Crappie will spawn between 60 and 65 degrees depending on the weather and some other variables. No matter when they spawn it means good bites for you. Spawning requires lots of energy and there is also a self preservation aspect here. If your bait looks like it might eat the young crappie it has a really good chance of being ate.

During spawning times use a small jig. There is no need to use live bait at this time of year as they will eat almost anything. I would avoid brightly colored jigs as they seem to be unnatural and I just have never had good luck with them during spawning. Basic rule for the spring crappie is just practice moderation and only take a few.

Spring is over and the spawning is done so the Crappie are getting picky about what they eat. In these shallow waters what you present may not be as important as where you present it. As summer sets in and the waters begin to warm expect crappie to be hanging out in the colder waters and this means deeper waters. Lakes shaped like this seem to age and fill in from the center so the mouths of the coves have slightly deeper areas.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best crappie fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askcrappiefishing.com/editorials/reelfoot-tennessee-tips.html for more information on crappie fishing on Reelfoot Lake.

The Best Walleye Fishing Spots In Missouri

There are some great walleye fishing spots in Missouri. Lake of the Ozarks, Stockton Lake, Thomas Hill Reservoir, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake and Mark Twain Lake are the top spots. These areas also have bass and panfish besides the walleye. The one thing that is a very well kept secret in Missouri is the ice fishing for walleye. Lake of the Ozarks is the best walleye fishing during the winter. Some anglers get out there and catch some prize trophies. The best thing to use during the winter months is heavier crankbaits while trolling. You might even try the grub on a jig, the weight should be about one eighth.

In October, Bull Shoals Lake is a great place to catch walleye. Many people do not even consider this lake for catching walleye and this is a shame because the action is hot in October. The lake has a great shad population that helps to feed the walleye and make them a good healthy weight. Here you would want to use crankbaits or some shad colored grubs. If you are fishing the rocky areas, a night crawler on a leadhead is great. In most cases, the planer boards work well with spinner rigs. During the spawning season in spring, you want to fish by the rocky areas from Barker Hole to Beaver Creek.

If you want to catch the walleye from shore during the spring spawning months, the Stockton Dam is a great area. However, the best time of day is a few hours before and after sunset. The popular area is by the Rip Rap by the dam. When you are fishing from shore near the riprap, you can use a shallow or floating running bait. Anglers recommend keeping the smaller males and leaving the larger females to spawn for future generations of walleye. On Stockton Lake, you can keep any fish that is fifteen inches or longer and they have a daily catch limit of four.

If you are using a fish locator on Stockton Lake, you will want to find the areas where the shad are in schools. Walleye will follow the shad and you can see the shad while the walleye are like black dots among the schools. The best time for walleye depends on the time of day and year, wind and water temperature. Fishing on Stockton Lake is better at dawn and dusk as well as overcast days. During the winter months, walleye hang out by the springs where the shad prefer to be. The water temperature is warmer than the forty-degree water temperatures away from the springs.

Table Rock Lake has many underwater habitats for walleye. When the lake was built, they never cleared the trees and other deadfall under the water, which has made a nice home for walleye. The shad in the lake allows the walleye to feed and grow to good-sized fish. Many anglers use the drop and sink method in this lake. They sit right above the deadfall and drop right into the middle of the school of shad coming up with a fish. This is a nice resort area and does not have a lot of boat activity, which makes it a nice fishing spot.

Mark Twain Lake is noted as a good place to fish for walleye, but keep in mind that you have to go at the right time and the right season. The best time to fish this lake is during spawning season. The shad population is what keeps the walleye in the lake, but you do need to fish for walleye during the particular time of year. The tributary streams in the spring are the best place to fish the walleye.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/editorials/best-walleye-spots-in-missouri.html for more information on Arizona walleye fishing.

Walleye Fishing Guide - How to Pick the Perfect Guide

When you are looking for the perfect guide, you need to consider a few things before deciding on which one will serve your needs. Although experience is the most import, some others will help you pick the right walleye fishing guide.

The first thing to remember is to be honest with the guide about what you need and how much experience you have walleye fishing. The more information you provide, the better off you will be with the guide. If you are a beginner and using a guide, they can show you some great tips for fishing the walleye. If you are less than honest, you may not catch anything. If you have any limitations, do tell the guide so they can accommodate your needs.

Talking to other people about the different guides they have used is a excellent way to find a good walleye fishing guide. You can plan a fishing trip that might be similar to their trip and have the same fun and excitement. You can also ask the guide for referrals of people who have used their service. Keep in mind that you cannot just talk to one person, you need to have a few people to talk to, to see how their fishing experience was and if the guide was as good as he or she has said. This is very important when choosing a fishing guide.

If you are reading this article, you can access the Internet, find many reviews of different guides, and see what guides are available in different areas. You might be planning your trip to one area when you find a walleye fishing guide with perks in another area that meets your needs. You can search by state, city or by finding some reviews of the specific lakes or rivers. The Internet is a great way to find out information. The walleye fishing forums are also a great wealth of information.

Two important things that make a guide credible are the insurance and license. Always ask for proof of insurance and a license. If the guide has insurance and a license great, if not, they are not recognized by that particular state as a reputable walleye fishing guide. Every guide should have insurance in case something would happen to the boat or to your equipment as well as yourself. The license comes from the Coast Guard and means that the boat was inspected and the boat owner has the proper training needed to run a guide service. This includes first aid training and boating safety.

You should pick a guide by what is included in the price. If you do not ask questions about what the guide includes, you may find some added costs when you arrive for a day of fishing. A good guide service should have the bait, gear and tackle that you need if you do not want to bring your own. You should find out if they buy the fishing license or do you have to as well as do they provide any lunches or beverage. In most cases, you are responsible for your food, beverages and fishing license.

Find out if there any discounts or special package deals. If you have a group, you might find that some guide services offer a discount for more people. If you book more than one day, will you receive a discount should also be discussed. Just because the guide service does not advertise a discount, you should still ask the question just in case they have one in place that they give to customers upon making reservations.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best walleye fishing information possible. Go to http://www.askwalleyefishing.com/editorials/pick-the-perfect-walleye-fishing-guide.html for more information on walleye fishing guides.

Preparing for Sea Fishing Trips

Whenever you decide to take a sea fishing trip, you have essentially two main options. The first is to embark on your own fishing trip, in which you are in charge and operate your own craft. This option is usually chosen if you already have your own boat and are a more experienced angler. The second option is to charter a vessel that is designed specifically for deep sea fishing expeditions. This option is open to novice fishermen, but is also frequently chosen by more experienced fishermen who don't want to worry about operating the boat while they are on their trip.

No matter which way you choose, it is important to properly prepare for both types of trips. Each way requires its own special preparation to make the trip a success. Your first option is to take your own boat out into the deep sea. One of your most important tasks will be making sure that you have the proper supplies on board. This includes everything from the obvious (fishing poles, fishing tackle, etc.) to those supplies that are less apparent (such as sunscreen). Always make sure that you have enough line left on your spools. A shortage of line will actually affect how far you can cast when you are out at sea.

It's also important to make sure you have the proper lures and bait for the particular type of fish you are angling for. Also, make sure you think about miscellaneous fishing supplies, such as needle nose pliers, something to measure the fish with, a scale, and a camera. If you plan to keep the fish you catch, you want to bring a stringer or something else that will allow you to hold onto them. If you want to clean the fish immediately after catching it, you will also want to bring a fillet knife and any other necessary supplies.

Also, it's important to check and make sure that all of the equipment and mechanical components of your boat are functioning properly. A routine check is a crucial part of maintaining a boat. Another important thing to pack is something to eat and drink. You will likely get worn out and drained while you're fishing, so it's important to stay hydrated and keep your energy up.

The other option available for fishing trips is to charter a specialized deep sea service. This can be a great option for beginners and experts alike. Not only do charter services offer trips geared specifically towards beginners, they also have trips that are designed specifically for expert fishermen. It's important to properly research a charter service before employing them, which gives you the option of deciding exactly what it is you want from your trip.

After deciding what level of a trip you are ready for, your next priority should be to decide what type of experience you want. Do you want to try reef and wreck fishing? Do you want to try inshore fishing? Or are you interested in finding a charter that specializes in targeting a specific type of species (such as tarpon, billfish, etc.). Some of these factors will depend on what part of the world you are fishing in. For example, if you are going to be fishing off the gulf of Mexico, your options will be different than if you were seeking a deep sea charter off the coast of northern California.

Dan Eggertsen is a fishing researcher and enthusiast who is committed to providing the best saltwater fishing information possible. Go to http://www.asksaltwaterfishing.com/editorials/preparing-for-sea-fishing-trips.html for more information on saltwater fishingis.

Walleye Fishing Equipment - What Gear Is Necessary

There are many things for a walleye angler to have when planning that fishing excursion on the hunt for the walleye. Rods, reels, and tackle come to mind. A boat, motor, electronics and ice fishing equipment are needed if you are going to be boat fishing and ice fishing. Your tackle is important when fishing for walleye. Although, you probably do not need all these baits, they are available. The crankbaits, Lindy Little Joe, Rapala lures, rigs, Line Dancer and jigs. You will need hooks and leadheads as well as the tackle box to keep everything in.

For electronics, you are going to want a sonar system, underwater camera and a GPS system for those who want to take the guest work out of finding the walleye. If you plan on fishing out on the lakes, you will need a boat and a good motor. For ice fishing, you need houses, locators, augers, rods and reels, lures, tip ups and maybe even a heater. As you can see, you need a few things that will help you fish better and with more success. The more success you have a particular bait in different conditions will be easier to narrow down the few things you need in your tackle box.

The Line Dance has become the hottest product in the fishing industry. This little gadget allows you to increase the vibration in your bait, which increases your chances of catching the walleye by live presentation. You can use the Line Dancer with spinners, worms, frogs, buzz baits, and stick baits, jigs, crank baits and spoons. This is quite a revolution for the walleye angler. You do not any skill level of fishing to use this device. The nice thing is the price is right and you can use it on different types of rods with different types of reels and line.

The floating Rapala is something every angler wants to have just in case. It wells well for catching walleye, but this is also going to depend on the water condition and the weather conditions. This is a surface bobber that dances on the surface of the water attracting the fish. Walleye do not come to the surface unless it is cloudy, so this is