Featured

How to Land Your First Bass on a Fly Rod

Pairing fly fishing with bass fishing may seem unconventional, but it opens up a world of exciting challenges and memorable catches. Known for their aggressive bites and strong fights, bass present a thrilling opportunity for fly anglers looking to branch …

October 29, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

San Diego Fisherman Lands Record 666-Pound Swordfish off California Coast

San Diego angler Luc Ofield, owner of Anglers Choice Tackle Store, recently reeled in a colossal 666.2-pound swordfish off the California coast, breaking the previous state record by more than 100 pounds. After a challenging four-hour battle with a stand-up …

October 25, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Trolling Plugs for Southern Walleye: Tips and Techniques

Southern walleye fishing is gaining popularity, especially in areas like East Tennessee, where anglers have discovered thriving populations in local waterways. Current plays a crucial role in catching walleye, as these fish tend to position themselves along deep ledges, humps, …

October 19, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Sarah

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

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Common Forgotten Items When Ice Fishing

October 13, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Seasonal Guide to Mastering Offshore Fly Fishing in the Fall

October 11, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

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 …

Baitshop Life

What Was Learned From Fishing the Bassmaster Opens

Participating in the Bassmaster Opens offers a unique and challenging experience for competitive bass anglers, revealing the depth of skill, preparation, and logistics required to excel. For Sam Hanggi, who competed through Auburn University’s notable bass fishing program, moving up …

October 29, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

How to Land Your First Bass on a Fly Rod

Pairing fly fishing with bass fishing may seem unconventional, but it opens up a world of exciting challenges and memorable catches. Known for their aggressive bites and strong fights, bass present a thrilling opportunity for fly anglers looking to branch …

October 29, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

The Best Live Bait for Fall Fishing

Why Live Bait Shines in the Fall As temperatures cool down in the fall, fish behavior and feeding patterns shift in preparation for winter. This seasonal change provides an excellent opportunity for anglers to maximize success by using the right …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Essential Ice Fishing Gear to Boost Winter Fishing Success

For anglers ready to brave winter temperatures, selecting the right ice fishing gear is essential. When it comes to a successful ice fishing trip, using effective lures and equipment makes a significant difference in attracting and hooking fish through the …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Learn About the Mono Rig and Maybe Why Fly Line Sucks

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

The Mono Rig technique for fly fishing has gained significant attention, challenging conventional methods for presenting nymphs and streamers to trout. This setup uses a lengthy monofilament leader—often with butt sections of 20 feet or more—as an alternative to traditional …

Ott DeFoe is Crankin’ for Fall Bass

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

As temperatures drop in October, Ott DeFoe embraces fall fishing with his balsa crankbaits, which he designed in his youth near Knoxville, Tennessee. These custom baits evolved into the renowned OG (Ott’s Garage) series by Rapala, prized for their unique …

Historic Catch: The World’s Largest Great White Shark Landed by Alfred Dean

October 25, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

The incredible story of Alfred Dean, an Australian angler, continues to captivate the fishing world. Born in Victoria, Australia, in 1904, Dean devoted much of his life to both farming and fishing, reserving time each year to pursue some of …

Gear

How Much Leader and Tippet Brands Really Matter

The question of whether leader and tippet brands truly impact fishing success is one that frequently surfaces in the angling community. Many anglers develop a strong brand loyalty, often sticking to a preferred brand based on reliability, personal experience, or …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Rob

Learn About the Mono Rig and Maybe Why Fly Line Sucks

The Mono Rig technique for fly fishing has gained significant attention, challenging conventional methods for presenting nymphs and streamers to trout. This setup uses a lengthy monofilament leader—often with butt sections of 20 feet or more—as an alternative to traditional …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Using Droppers on Fly Lines: A Game-Changer for Fly Fishers

Fly fishing often requires quick adaptability to attract various fish species, especially in changing seasons. One trending tactic that can make a big difference is the use of droppers on fly lines. By adding an extra fly to the main …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

Mastering Downrigger Setup for Lake Trolling Success

Trolling with a downrigger is a favorite tactic for targeting deep-water fish species in lakes, especially during peak seasons when fish move to cooler, lower depths. A well-set downrigger system can revolutionize your lake trolling experience, allowing for precision in …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

Lightweight and Customizable Gear: Elevating Your Fishing Game

October 21, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Modern fishing has evolved significantly, with a growing trend towards lightweight and customizable gear that enhances performance without sacrificing comfort. As anglers strive for better precision and efficiency, manufacturers are delivering gear designed to meet these demands. Here’s why lightweight, …

9 Essential Items for Fly Fishing in Remote Alaska

October 21, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Garrett

Exploring remote Alaska for fly fishing requires thorough preparation and gear suited to the rugged environment. Based on a successful trip to the Last Frontier, here’s a list of nine essentials that can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure …

Common Forgotten Items When Ice Fishing

October 13, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Eats

Flavorful Walleye Tacos: Recipes That Bring Fresh Catch to the Table

As walleye season reaches its peak, anglers are not only excited about reeling in this prized freshwater fish but also transforming it into unforgettable dishes. Walleye’s mild flavor and tender, flaky texture make it perfect for cooking, and one of …

October 29, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

Easy Salmon Cakes: A Delicious Recipe for Every Occasion

Salmon cakes offer a versatile, nutritious, and incredibly tasty option for any meal of the day. These savory patties are especially popular due to their ease of preparation and the possibility of using either fresh or canned salmon. Whether you’re …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Garrett

Classic Shrimp Scampi: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

Shrimp scampi is a timeless dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic, lemon, and butter to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a romantic dinner, shrimp scampi is both …

October 23, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Rob

Crispy Red Snapper Fry Recipe: A Seafood Delight

Red snapper is not just a sought-after catch for anglers; it’s also a culinary gem. Its firm texture and mildly sweet flavor make it perfect for frying, creating a crispy outer layer with tender, juicy fish inside. With red snapper …

October 23, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Rob

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

September 11, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kevin

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 …

Simple and Delicious Scallops Recipe for Your Next Seafood Feast

August 13, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

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 …

Cooking Red Snapper: A Simple and Flavorful Guide

July 31, 2024 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Fishing News

New Bowfishing Record Broken at South Dakota’s Lake Oahe as Enthusiasm for Sport Fishing Grows

South Dakota’s Lake Oahe recently became the stage for a remarkable achievement in bowfishing, as a new state record was set. Ty Smith, an avid bowfisherman, successfully landed a 6-pound, 12-ounce brown trout, shattering previous records and capturing the attention …

October 31, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Angler Breaks Mississippi State Record for Longear Sunfish

Eric Mayo, an enthusiastic Mississippi angler, has made waves by breaking the state record for longear sunfish, capturing a remarkable specimen that measured 8 3/8 inches and weighed 0.51 pounds. Known for his skill in using both fly rods and …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

NJ Angler Breaks Rhode Island’s Tautog Record

Rhode Island recently saw its tautog fishing record shattered in Newport, where New Jersey angler Vincent Simms reeled in a giant tautog weighing in at an impressive 22 pounds and measuring 33 inches. Officially confirmed by Rhode Island’s Department of …

October 25, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Blue Catfish Caught in the Wake of Hurricane Helene Breaks Record

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, West Virginia saw a new state record for blue catfish, thanks to a fortuitous fishing trip. Kim Feltner, fishing on the Ohio River near Point Pleasant with her husband and guide Chris Souders, landed …

October 17, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Kelly

Fall Surf Fishing for Striped Bass and Bluefish Heats Up

October 17, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Kelly

This past weekend brought plenty of action to the beaches, with anglers landing bluefish, striped bass, and kingfish. On Long Beach Island, the Fall Surf Fishing Classic saw a new leader in the striped bass category when Jake Smith of …

Austin Anderson’s Record 71-Pound Smallmouth Buffalo in Downtown Austin

October 15, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Recently Austin Anderson, a professional fishing guide, caught a record-setting 71-pound smallmouth buffalo at Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. Anderson had spotted a massive fish days earlier and decided to target it using an unconventional method: deploying bait with …

Fly Angler Lands Likely Blue Marlin Record in Hawaii

October 14, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

Shallow Water Nymphing Techniques for Trout

Nymphing is renowned as one of the most effective trout fishing methods across various conditions. Unlike other techniques, it doesn’t require the trout to rise or pursue a fly, as it delivers a tempting bait directly past their resting spots. …

October 28, 2024 | 🪝 Casting Techniques | Baitshop Rob

Late-Season Big Bass Weather Windows, What to Know

Seasonal Warmth and Bass Behavior Shifts October 22nd brought the end of a three-day warming trend across Massachusetts, where air temperatures reached between the upper 60s and low 70s—a refreshing change from the previous cold stretch. As the third day …

Water Temperature and Fishing Success: Know When to Cast and When to Wait

The Role of Water Temperature in Fishing Success Water temperature is one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, factors for a successful fishing trip. Fish, being cold-blooded, have body temperatures that fluctuate with the surrounding water, meaning their activity …

Tip-Up Ice Fishing for Beginners: A Guide to Getting Started

Tip-up ice fishing is a winter tradition for many anglers, combining the thrill of fishing with the serene, icy landscapes of frozen lakes. This technique revolves around the use of tip-ups, devices that suspend a baited hook in the water …


Trolling Plugs for Southern Walleye: Tips and Techniques

October 19, 2024 | 🪝 Featured | Baitshop Sarah

Southern walleye fishing is gaining popularity, especially in areas like East Tennessee, where anglers have discovered thriving populations in local waterways. Current plays a crucial role in catching walleye, as these fish tend to position themselves along deep ledges, humps, …

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

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

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 …

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 …