Baitshop Life

Hooked on the Big Lake: 5 Great Fishing Spots on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes, spans over 22,000 square miles and is a year-round angling haven. From trout and salmon to perch and bass, the lake offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities, especially during the warmer …

July 7, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

5 Must-Fish Spots Along the Mighty Mississippi

The Mississippi River stretches over 2,300 miles, offering anglers countless fishing opportunities. From northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the river’s diverse ecosystems are home to catfish, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, and more. Summer is a prime season to …

July 1, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

5 Amazing Spots to Fish in Upstate New York

New York isn’t just about the city skyline. Head north and discover some of the best freshwater fishing in the Northeast. From pristine mountain lakes to thriving river systems, Upstate New York is a summer fishing paradise. 1. Lake George …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Hooked on Summer: Your Guide to Fishing Fun in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Whether it’s the thrill of landing a bass or the quiet joy of casting a line at sunset, summer fishing in Massachusetts offers something for everyone. With lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams scattered across …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

5 Epic Fishing Spots in Alaska Every Angler Needs to Visit

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Alaska remains a dream destination for anglers around the world, offering unmatched scenery and an abundance of trophy-worthy fish. As the summer season hits full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore the Last Frontier’s top fishing spots. Here are …

Michigan’s Au Sable River Tops National List of Best Fly-Fishing Spots

June 19, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Michigan is home to the top fly-fishing river in the United States, according to a recent USA Today ranking voted on by anglers nationwide. The Au Sable River, a renowned cold-water fishery in Northern Michigan, claimed the No. 1 spot …

What’s in the Water? How Sunscreen Can Affect Fish While Fishing

May 31, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

As the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher, anglers gear up for spring and summer outings with sunscreen at the top of their packing lists. While sunscreen is vital for skin protection, emerging research highlights a growing concern: …

Featured

Hooked on the Big Lake: 5 Great Fishing Spots on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes, spans over 22,000 square miles and is a year-round angling haven. From trout and salmon to perch and bass, the lake offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities, especially during the warmer …

July 7, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

5 Must-Fish Spots Along the Mighty Mississippi

The Mississippi River stretches over 2,300 miles, offering anglers countless fishing opportunities. From northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the river’s diverse ecosystems are home to catfish, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, and more. Summer is a prime season to …

July 1, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

5 Epic Fishing Spots in Alaska Every Angler Needs to Visit

Alaska remains a dream destination for anglers around the world, offering unmatched scenery and an abundance of trophy-worthy fish. As the summer season hits full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore the Last Frontier’s top fishing spots. Here are …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Bring Back Respect: Why Fishing Needs a Return to Decency

The water is often seen as a peaceful refuge—a place to escape the chaos of the world. But lately, that peace has been harder to find. On the roads and in everyday life, courtesy seems to be vanishing. Whether it’s …

May 21, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

Mastering the 80/20 Rule in Fishing: Key Lessons for Success

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

In fishing, as in many aspects of life, the majority of success often comes from a small portion of effort. This idea, known as the 80/20 Rule or Pareto Principle, suggests that 80% of outcomes stem from 20% of the …

5 Amazing Fishing Spots in New Jersey You’ve Got to Try This Season

April 5, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

New Jersey might be one of the smaller states, but when it comes to fishing opportunities, it delivers big. From serene mountain lakes to brackish backwaters and bustling coastal inlets, the Garden State offers a surprising variety of fishing destinations. …

Paddlefish: An Intriguing Freshwater Species

March 27, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

Paddlefish (Polyodon spatula) are one of the most unique freshwater species in North America, known for their smooth skin, cartilage-based skeleton, and fascinating paddle-like rostrum. These large fish, sometimes called spoonbills or shovelnose catfish, have lived in the region for …

Gear

Tippet Talk – How to Select the Right Tippet for Summer Fishing

When it comes to fly fishing in the summer, choosing the right tippet is critical for presentation, stealth, and successful hook sets. Warmer water, increased angler pressure, and clearer conditions require a thoughtful approach to your tippet selection. Understanding Tippet …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

Hooked on Summer: Choosing the Right Fly Rod for Warm Weather Fishing

Summer is peak season for fly fishing, and choosing the right fly rod can make all the difference in casting accuracy, hook setting, and overall enjoyment. With fish feeding aggressively and water temperatures rising, now is the perfect time to …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Garrett

Top Picks for River Fishing Hats: Stay Cool, Comfortable, and Catch More Fish

When it comes to successful river angling, the right hat is more than just a fashion statement—it’s essential gear. Whether casting for trout at dawn or battling glare during midday bass strikes, the perfect fishing hat offers protection, comfort, and …

May 31, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Spinning vs. Baitcasting for Jerkbaits: What’s the Best Choice for Anglers?

The choice between spinning and baitcasting gear often sparks debate among anglers, especially when it comes to fishing jerkbaits. With countless rod, reel, and line combinations available, the decision can feel overwhelming—especially for newcomers. Yet, this diversity reflects the personal …

April 21, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Snagged Again? Here’s How to Free a Panther Martin Lure Without Losing It

April 7, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kevin

Panther Martin lures are a staple in many tackle boxes, known for their flashy blades and fish-catching abilities. However, they’re also notorious for getting snagged—on rocks, logs, weeds, or submerged branches. Before cutting the line and sacrificing a favorite lure, …

Smart Angling: How to Shop for Used Fishing Gear Without Breaking the Bank

April 7, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Sarah

Fishing is a gear-lover’s paradise. Between rods, reels, lines, and terminal tackle, the sport naturally leads to a growing collection of equipment. But while upgrading gear can be exciting, it also gets expensive fast—especially when buying everything brand new. For …

From Shoreline Trash to Tacklebox Treasures: The Curious Tale of the “Tampoon”

April 5, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Garrett

Long before viral videos showcased tampons as DIY fishing lures, a New Jersey environmental group took the concept seriously. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Clean Ocean Action (COA) created and sold handmade lures dubbed “Tampoons” — crafted from …

Fishing News

Rescuers Free 500-Pound Leatherback Sea Turtle Tangled in Cape Cod Bay Fishing Gear

A 500-pound leatherback sea turtle entangled in multiple sets of fishing gear was successfully rescued last Wednesday in Cape Cod Bay by the Marine Animal Entanglement Response team from the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown. According to officials, the …

July 14, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

56-Pound Almaco Jack Shatters North Carolina State Record Off Outer Banks

A new state fishing record has been set in North Carolina for Almaco Jack, a species known for its powerful runs and deepwater fights. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries has officially certified the massive …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Monster Carp Shatters Connecticut Freshwater Record at Over 58 Pounds

A new benchmark in Connecticut freshwater fishing has been set. On June 21, 2025, Norbert “Norbie” Samok of Westchester County, New York, landed a massive 58.05-pound common carp from Lake Zoar, rewriting the state’s record books. Officially confirmed by the …

June 29, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Miracle Catch: Florida Woman Hooks Record African Pompano on Light Tackle

Yvonne Norman of Lake Asbury, Florida, may have landed a new world record while trolling off the coast of St. Augustine on June 16. While targeting king mackerel with her brother, Will Van Duyn, Norman hooked and landed an African …

June 23, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Sarah

Reeling in Innovation: How One Texan Is 3D-Printing His Way to Better Bass Catches

June 2, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

The future of fishing is here—and it’s being printed, not purchased. One inventive Texas angler is proving that innovation and a bit of tech-savvy thinking can revolutionize how bass are caught. Meet Goya Lin, a Texas fisherman who designs and …

Angler Catches Largest Freshwater Fish Ever Landed in Connecticut

June 2, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

On May 25, 2025, Connecticut angler Rafal Wlazlo etched his name into the state’s fishing history books by landing an enormous 45-pound, 8-ounce common carp from Lake Lillinonah. This remarkable catch has now been officially confirmed and certified by the …

Could Fishing Be Rewiring Fish Evolution?

May 30, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Commercial and recreational fishing may be doing more than just reducing fish populations—it could be reshaping the very evolution of fish species. As global fisheries remove an estimated 1.6 trillion wild fish annually, emerging research suggests that the traits making …

Eats

The 4th of July Lobster That Made New Jersey History—and Why It’ll Never Happen Again

While many spend the Fourth of July grilling burgers and watching fireworks, it also marks the anniversary of one of New Jersey’s most legendary underwater catches. On July 4, 2003, diver William Sharp surfaced with a lobster so massive it …

July 7, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

From Stream to Oven: Elevate Your Catch with Garlic Oregano Crusted Cod

For anglers seeking a delicious way to savor their fresh catch, the Garlic Oregano Crusted Cod recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Inspired by the Italian oreganata style, this dish transforms your freshly caught cod into a …

May 27, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

How a Pro Chef Makes Crispy Fish Tacos at Home

Not all fish tacos are created equal. In fact, when done poorly, they can be downright disappointing. But when executed with precision, fresh ingredients, and a few professional tricks, the result is unforgettable—something close to the famous fish tacos served …

May 21, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Garrett

Cast a Line for Flavor: Easy Fish Florentine

Fresh from the water to the table, nothing beats turning your catch into a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for a weeknight. Enter Fish Florentine—a flaky, tender fish dish with creamy spinach that’s so good it might …

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

Smoked Fish Rangoon: A Crispy Twist on a Classic Favorite

April 21, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Garrett

Looking for a new way to enjoy your smoked catch? This Smoked Fish Rangoon recipe takes the familiar Chinese-American appetizer and gives it a bold, flavorful upgrade. Instead of the usual imitation crab, this version stars smoky, flaky trout—offering a …

Crispy Ranchero Walleye Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner

March 26, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kevin

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that doesn’t take up too much time in the kitchen, this Ranchero Walleye recipe is the perfect choice. In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dinner that’s sure …

Crawfish Prep: Hindgut Removal Techniques

March 24, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

Before enjoying crawfish, many prefer to remove the digestive tract, often referred to as the “poop line.” This dark, gritty cord, scientifically known as the hindgut, while not inherently harmful, can detract from the eating experience due to its texture. …

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

Beat the Heat: Smart Summer Bass Fishing Strategies

Summer heat can make bass sluggish, but savvy anglers know how to adapt. High temperatures shift bass behavior, but they don’t stop feeding. The key is timing, presentation, and understanding summer patterns. Here’s how to stay cool and catch more …

Cast into Summer: A Massachusetts Fishing Guide for All Ages

Fishing in Massachusetts offers an unmatched way to enjoy summer—from peaceful pond banks to action-packed lakes filled with bass. With hundreds of accessible locations across the state, there’s no shortage of places to cast a line, enjoy the outdoors, and …

Surf Fishing for Beginners: A Shoreline Angler’s Guide to Getting Started

Fishing from the ocean shore—commonly known as surf fishing or surfcasting—is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature and catch big, powerful saltwater species. The thrill comes from the unique experience of walking the beach, casting into …

May 31, 2025 | 🪝 Casting Techniques | Baitshop Garrett

Mastering the Art of Reservoir Fishing: A Guide to Productive Flowage Angling

Explore New Waters with Confidence Planning a reservoir or flowage fishing trip can be incredibly rewarding, but it starts with the right preparation. One of the first steps is checking whether a reservoir fishing permit is required for the specific …


Hot Weather, Cool Casts: 8 Smart Fly Fishing Tips for Summer Success

Summer signals the prime time for fly fishing—long days, active fish, and vibrant hatches. But while the season is inviting, it demands some strategy shifts to make the most of it. Here are eight expert tips to help anglers thrive …

City Buzz Meets River Runs: Why Grand Rapids Is a Fly Fishing Gem in Disguise

Grand Rapids, Michigan is quickly becoming one of the most surprising fly fishing hotspots in the country. It offers a rare mix: a dynamic urban experience paired with some of the Midwest’s most rewarding freshwater fly fishing—just a short drive …

Unlocking Suspended Bass: Why These Mid-Water Giants Still Bite

In the ever-evolving world of bass fishing, opinions often solidify into “rules” — even when the fish don’t always follow them. One long-standing belief? That suspended bass are inactive and uncatchable. For many anglers, spotting a fish mid-water column on …