Featured

Why the Smith River in Montana is a Coveted Waterway for Fishing

The Smith River in Montana is one of the most sought-after fly fishing destinations in the United States, offering anglers a secluded and pristine experience in the heart of Montana’s rugged wilderness. Flowing through limestone canyons, remote stretches, and abundant …

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Fly Angler Lands Likely Blue Marlin Record in Hawaii

Ian Keinath, a seasoned angler, achieved a lifelong dream on September 11, 2024, when he caught a record-breaking blue marlin off the coast of Kona, Hawaii. The fish, weighing in at 106.8 pounds, surpassed the previous record of 104.2 pounds …

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

Common Forgotten Items When Ice Fishing

Ice fishing requires a unique set of tools and equipment, and amidst the excitement of preparing for a day on the ice, it’s easy to forget essential items. While most anglers remember their rods, reels, and bait, some often-overlooked items …

October 13, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

Seasonal Guide to Mastering Offshore Fly Fishing in the Fall

Fly fishing is often associated with serene rivers and tranquil streams, but autumn offers a unique opportunity for offshore fly fishing. While many anglers might pack away their gear as the weather cools, seasoned fly fishers know that the fall …

October 11, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

October Brook Trout: A Fall Gem Worth Pursuing

October 7, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Fall presents an unmatched opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts, especially for those drawn to the vibrant beauty of brook trout. As autumn sets in, the crisp air and golden landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for anglers looking to extend their …

Guide to Fishing for Smallmouth Bass in the Fall

October 5, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Fishing for smallmouth bass in the fall is an often-overlooked opportunity, but it can be one of the most rewarding times of the year to catch these aggressive fish. As water temperatures drop, smallmouth bass shift their habits, and knowing …

Most Populous Trout in America: A Deep Dive

September 30, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

Trout, often considered the quintessential freshwater game fish, come in various species, each with its unique characteristics and habitats. While many species are prized for their beauty, sportiness, or culinary value, one question often arises: which trout species is the …

Baitshop Life

Why the Smith River in Montana is a Coveted Waterway for Fishing

The Smith River in Montana is one of the most sought-after fly fishing destinations in the United States, offering anglers a secluded and pristine experience in the heart of Montana’s rugged wilderness. Flowing through limestone canyons, remote stretches, and abundant …

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

How to Know If You’re Ready to Learn Fly Fishing

Fly fishing, with its graceful casting and strategic approach, offers a rewarding way to connect with nature and catch fish. However, it differs significantly from traditional spin or bait fishing. For those wondering whether they’re ready to take on fly …

October 13, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Seasonal Guide to Mastering Offshore Fly Fishing in the Fall

Fly fishing is often associated with serene rivers and tranquil streams, but autumn offers a unique opportunity for offshore fly fishing. While many anglers might pack away their gear as the weather cools, seasoned fly fishers know that the fall …

October 11, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Montauk Masters on Fly Fishing for Stripers

The fall run in Montauk is renowned among anglers worldwide. It’s often on bucket lists, with memories of a lifetime formed by those lucky enough to experience it. Acres of blitzing stripers, alongside false albacore, create chaotic scenes as they …

October 8, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

October Brook Trout: A Fall Gem Worth Pursuing

October 7, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Fall presents an unmatched opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts, especially for those drawn to the vibrant beauty of brook trout. As autumn sets in, the crisp air and golden landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for anglers looking to extend their …

Snook, Specks On Fire as October’s Magical Fishing Days Arrive—Plus, Sharks!

October 5, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

The arrival of October brings with it some of the most exciting fishing opportunities of the year, and local anglers are feeling the magic. While Discovery Channel might have declared Shark Week as a summer phenomenon, the local waters around …

Guide to Fishing for Smallmouth Bass in the Fall

October 5, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Fishing for smallmouth bass in the fall is an often-overlooked opportunity, but it can be one of the most rewarding times of the year to catch these aggressive fish. As water temperatures drop, smallmouth bass shift their habits, and knowing …

Gear

Common Forgotten Items When Ice Fishing

Ice fishing requires a unique set of tools and equipment, and amidst the excitement of preparing for a day on the ice, it’s easy to forget essential items. While most anglers remember their rods, reels, and bait, some often-overlooked items …

October 13, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

How to Fix Common Issues with a Spin Rod for Fishing

Spin rods are a go-to tool for anglers due to their versatility and ease of use. However, like any piece of fishing equipment, they can encounter problems that disrupt your time on the water. Addressing common issues with a spin …

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

Essential End-of-Season Fly Fishing Gear Maintenance

Proper maintenance of fly fishing gear can significantly extend its lifespan, keeping everything in optimal shape for future fishing adventures. As the fishing season winds down, particularly in northern fisheries, it’s important to follow a thorough cleaning and maintenance routine. …

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

The Ultimate Autumn Fly: Why the Woolly Bugger is a Fall Favorite

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, autumn presents an excellent opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts to hit the rivers. While many fly patterns work during this season, the Woolly Bugger stands out as a highly effective fly for catching …

September 27, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Stick Floats and How to Use Them for Better River Fishing

September 23, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Stick floats are a go-to tool for anglers targeting fish in flowing rivers. These long, slender floats are designed to offer stability in moving water, allowing for precise bait presentation and better control over drift. While stick floats have been …

The Classic Round Bobber: Still a Must-Have for Modern Anglers

September 17, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Garrett

When it comes to fishing gear, certain tools have stood the test of time—and the round bobber is a prime example. While many anglers gravitate toward the latest high-tech gadgets, the simplicity and effectiveness of the round bobber keep it …

Essential Fall Fishing Gear for Cold Weather Adventures

September 16, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

As temperatures drop and the leaves change, fall fishing offers a unique and tranquil experience. However, colder weather brings new challenges, requiring anglers to adapt their gear for comfort and safety. From hoodies and jackets to boots and gloves, here’s …

Eats

Easy Salmon Cakes Recipe: A Delicious Way to Enjoy Your Catch

Salmon cakes are a fantastic way to use fresh or leftover salmon, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’ve recently caught a fresh haul of salmon or are simply looking for a healthy recipe, salmon …

September 11, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kevin

Simple and Delicious Scallops Recipe for Your Next Seafood Feast

Scallops are a delicacy that can turn any meal into a gourmet experience. Their sweet, tender flesh is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, making them a versatile option for seafood lovers. Here’s an easy recipe that highlights the …

August 13, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

Cooking Red Snapper: A Simple and Flavorful Guide

Red snapper is a prized catch for many anglers, and its delicate, mild flavor makes it a favorite for cooking. Whether you’ve just reeled in a fresh catch or picked up a fillet from your local market, cooking red snapper …

July 31, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Rob

Cook Trout Over an Open Fire Like a Pro

Cooking trout over an open fire while camping is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh catch of the day. It adds a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the fish and connects you with the primal joy of …

July 30, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

July 17, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kevin

These seared scallops are cooked to golden brown perfection and topped with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, they’re easy to make and full of flavor. Ingredients: Fresh scallops Butter Olive oil Garlic Lemon …

Discover the Delight of Connecticut-Style Lobster Rolls

July 17, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kevin

Indulge in the rich flavors of Connecticut-style lobster rolls, a beloved coastal classic that highlights the natural sweetness of lobster with the simplicity of butter and lemon. Perfect for any seafood lover, this dish combines tradition with taste, offering a …

Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp Made Easy

May 26, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

What better way to enjoy your fresh catch than by turning it into a delicious meal? Walleye, known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture, is a favorite among anglers and food enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for a simple …

Fishing News

Fly Angler Lands Likely Blue Marlin Record in Hawaii

Ian Keinath, a seasoned angler, achieved a lifelong dream on September 11, 2024, when he caught a record-breaking blue marlin off the coast of Kona, Hawaii. The fish, weighing in at 106.8 pounds, surpassed the previous record of 104.2 pounds …

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

Steelhead Fishing Reopens in Upper Columbia River for First Time in Nine Years

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has announced the reopening of steelhead fishing in select areas of the Upper Columbia River for the first time in nearly a decade. Beginning October 16, 2024, anglers will once again have …

October 11, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

Montauk Masters on Fly Fishing for Stripers

The fall run in Montauk is renowned among anglers worldwide. It’s often on bucket lists, with memories of a lifetime formed by those lucky enough to experience it. Acres of blitzing stripers, alongside false albacore, create chaotic scenes as they …

October 8, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Record Blue Catfish Caught on Ohio River in West Virginia

A massive blue catfish, measuring over 4 feet in length and weighing more than 64 pounds, has broken West Virginia’s state length record. Kimberly Feltner of Madison, Indiana, made the impressive catch last month on the Ohio River at the …

October 6, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Kevin

Huge Mahi Tops 30-Year-Old Record in Rhode Island

September 30, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

A long-standing Rhode Island state record for mahi-mahi was broken this past August when an angler aboard an overnight tuna and swordfish charter out of Narragansett landed the largest dolphinfish ever recorded in the state’s waters. Karl Mohr, a New …

Angler Lands Record-Breaking Smallmouth Bass in Montana

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Montana’s fishing scene is buzzing with excitement following the capture of a potential state record smallmouth bass. Josh Johnson, an experienced angler, landed an impressive 8.4-pound smallmouth, which is now poised to become the new state record. This monumental catch …

Fisherman Sets State Record with ‘Catch of a Lifetime’ in Iowa: A Historic Black Crappie with a Twist

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

On September 23, 2024, John Foster, an avid Iowa fisherman, etched his name into state fishing history by reeling in a monumental catch. This wasn’t just an ordinary fish, but a potential hybrid crappie that has since captivated anglers, biologists, …

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

Drop-Shotting in Shallow Cover: A Bass-Fishing Secret

Drop-shotting is widely known as an effective deep-water fishing technique, but it can also produce impressive results in shallow cover, especially in heavily pressured fishing areas. Harold Stark, a Missouri angler and seasoned tournament competitor, discovered this alternative approach while …

October 12, 2024 | 🪝 Bait Presentation Strategies | Baitshop Sarah

Differences Between Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass

Bass fishing is a popular pastime enjoyed by anglers worldwide. Two of the most sought-after species are smallmouth and largemouth bass. While they may look similar, these fish have distinct characteristics that make them unique targets. This article will delve …

Finding the Perfect Ice Fishing Spot: Tips for a Successful Winter Adventure

Ice fishing offers a unique and thrilling experience for anglers, but success on the ice begins with finding the perfect spot. Whether targeting walleye, perch, or trout, locating a good ice fishing location is key. Here’s a guide to finding …

September 27, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Catch Chinook Salmon, a Fish Fit For a King

Twenty commercial fishermen gathered around a beach bonfire, their attention quickly diverted by a loud splash nearby. Something significant had jumped in the water near the rising tide of the adjacent creek mouth. “Was that a seal?” one of them …


Dam Fishing in the City: A Comprehensive Guide to Urban Angling

Urban angling has gained significant popularity in recent years, offering city dwellers an escape into nature without leaving the city limits. One of the best and most accessible forms of city fishing is dam fishing. With dams often located near …

Retrieval Techniques for Bass Fishing You Need to Know

Bass fishing is an art, and mastering retrieval techniques can be the key to success. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, understanding how to retrieve your lure can make all the difference in attracting bass. Let’s explore some …

The Roll Cast is an Essential Skill for Fly Fishing Success

August 29, 2024 | 🪝 Casting Techniques | Baitshop Kevin

Fly fishing is an art, and like any art form, mastering the basics is crucial for success. Among the fundamental techniques in fly fishing is the roll cast, a method that every angler should have in their skillset. Whether you’re …