Protecting killer whales from trawl gear; testing “active selection systems” and excluder devices. Two Alaska projects are among 13 in the US being recommended for bycatch reduction research. In a press release this month, NOAA Fisheries said: “Working in collaboration with fishermen and industry partners, the Bycatch Reduction...

Though a swim jig is a great tool for targeting all black bass species, it is typically associated most with fishing for largemouth around shallow vegetation. Yes, you can catch spotted, smallmouth, and largemouth bass in open water with these baits. You can fish them around and along isolated cover like docks, stumps, trees, seawalls, and riprap banks, too. Swim jigs can even mimic shad, bluegill, perch, goby, and a variety of other baitfish from a foot deep out to 20 feet. But targeting shallow vegetation with these baits is the most effective way to trigger a bite from a big bass. Here's how to do it.

River water levels are constantly influenced by various weather conditions, such as storms, droughts, and seasonal changes. During late summer and fall, rivers often experience lower water levels due to reduced rainfall, creating unique fishing opportunities for anglers. These low-water conditions expose more of the riverbed, making it easier to target smallmouth bass that are typically spread out during higher water levels. Anglers should pay attention to weather patterns and plan their fishing trips accordingly to take advantage of these conditions. Understanding how water levels affect fish behavior and habitat is crucial for successful fishing. Lower water levels can also reveal hidden structures and cover, such as rocks and submerged logs, which can serve as prime locations for bass to hide and ambush prey. Tthese conditions can lead to higher water temperatures, which can influence the feeding patterns and activity levels of smallmouth bass. It’s important for anglers to adjust their techniques and gear to match these changing conditions. For instance, using lighter tackle and more natural presentations can be more effective in clear, low-water environments.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fact, we just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost and 10w30 Syntheic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.

"No matter how well an angler casts, nor how well suited the line and leader are, it’s the fly selection that determines results."

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›. Finding the best fishing gifts for anglers can be like catching the fish of a lifetime—nearly impossible. Fishermen are very particular about their gear and all too often buy what they want as soon as they can. But the benefit of shopping for a diehard angler is that we always have our sights set on something new. If it helps us catch more fish—we want it.

Tackle selection for river-ranging smallmouth bass as autumn progresses toward winter. MUSKEGON, Mich. (October 1, 2024) – Pound for pound, smallmouth bass are undeniably one of the hardest fighting freshwater fish in North America. Words like ‘belligerent’ and ‘chippy’ come to mind when describing their demeanor when hooked, hence their popularity with anglers.While in many regions of the country smallies maintain their position as a top attraction throughout the summer months, an unfortunate number of anglers lose interest once other fall attractions kick in. Besides hunting seasons, muskie, walleye, salmon, steelhead and even stripers, redfish and tuna steal a lot of the thunder after Labor Day.However, some of the best smallmouth fishing of the year takes place as water temps begin to slink, triggering a heavy feeding period that may only last a few weeks. This is when a lot of trophy sized fish shed their hard-earned reputation for being difficult to catch.

There are a lot of numbers in fly fishing, and some of the numbering may not make sense to the uninitiated—or to the initiated, for that matter. A higher number means a smaller hook, yet the opposite is true when it comes to fly rod weights. It can be a little counter-intuitive. But we fly-fishers pursue a very wide range of species, from tiny sunfish to bluewater tuna, so specialized gear is necessary, and you have to categorize it all somehow.

, , I’ve been fortunate to visit some of the very best largemouth bass lakes in the world, and I’m thankful that so many of those trips came at a time when fishing was still fishing. Not the video game it has become for so many since the evolution of high-tech electronics like forward-facing sonar, monster screens and other game changing goodies. They say technology is the future. I’ve gotten a belly full of it over the last few years. More power to those caught up in the race to reel in the next best thing. I’m much more fond of fishing...

Fly-fishing is the best time you can have in a pair of waders. Here’s all you need to know to start snagging like a pro.

Ryobi is a brand that most associate with power tools, and for good reason. With its wide assortment of tools and appliances, reasonable prices, and largely reliable output, they're a strong choice for a variety of jobs. In fact, there are even select Ryobi tools you definitely want to have in your craft room. However, there is some confusion when it comes to its lesser-known products — chief among them being their fishing reels, which have been a source of discussion and head-scratching for some.