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 …
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 (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 …
Saltwater fly fishing presents an exhilarating challenge, akin to the X-Games of the sport. The pursuit of larger, more powerful fish creates an intense and highly desirable angling experience. From tarpon’s aerial displays to giant trevally’s blistering runs, the saltwater …
Travis Hunter, the University of Colorado’s standout athlete and 2024 Heisman Trophy recipient, possesses a talent that extends beyond the football field. While dominating as both a wide receiver and cornerback, Hunter’s true passion lies in the pursuit of largemouth …
Florida is a paradise for anglers, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities across its waters. From saltwater giants to freshwater favorites, the Sunshine State has it all. Whether targeting tarpon, bass, or redfish, these five amazing fishing spots in …
Introducing kids to fishing in a freshwater pond is a great way to create lasting memories while helping them develop a love for the outdoors. Small ponds provide an easy and accessible way to catch species like bass, catfish, and …
Spending time on the water with conventional anglers can provide more than just good company—it can completely reshape how fly fishing is approached. When targeting species like smallmouth bass in dynamic waters like the Niagara River, fly anglers often find …
When spring and summer roll into Maine, few pastimes rival the simple joy of casting a line into a calm lake or peaceful pond. Fishing is deeply rooted in the state’s outdoor culture, and with thousands of freshwater options, Maine …
Across the United States, anglers target three main types of freshwater catfish known for their size, strength, and table fare. Fishing for catfish has long been a treasured tradition among freshwater anglers. Whether chasing a trophy catch or gathering a …
Anglers hoping to hook more than just trout should mark their calendars for June 7, when the 27th annual Fishin’ for $50K Trout Derby returns to Big Bear Lake. Hosted by Visit Big Bear, the popular fishing event offers a …
West Virginia offers some of the most scenic and rewarding fishing destinations in the eastern United States. With its combination of mountain streams, vast lakes, and coolwater rivers, the Mountain State is a year-round haven for anglers. Whether it’s trout …
As winter fades and bass anglers begin gearing up for spring, one often overlooked technique stands out: the stall. When water temperatures climb out of the 40s and 50s, the ability to suspend a lure—holding it motionless in the strike …
When springtime blooms across Connecticut, it’s a signal to anglers that the fishing season is about to heat up. With its mix of freshwater lakes, winding rivers, and coastal waters, Connecticut offers some truly incredible fishing spots that promise action, …
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 …
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, …
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 …
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 …
You’ve secured your dream saltwater destination, booked your lodge, and arranged your guide. You’ve even managed to clear your schedule and purchase those plane tickets. Now, as you contemplate the merits of an aisle versus a window seat, a crucial …
Glenn May of BassResource shares valuable insights on using lipless crankbaits, also known as vibrating lures, rattling baits, or classics like the Rat-L-Trap. With years of experience, he breaks down the key strategies, gear recommendations, and modifications that can increase …
Comfortable feet can make all the difference during a fly fishing trip. While much attention is given to rods, reels, and waders, one often-overlooked factor is socks. Hours spent standing in cold water, trekking through rough terrain, and navigating rocky …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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. …
Blue catfish, often overlooked and labeled a “trash fish,” possess a delicate, flaky flavor that lends itself to a variety of culinary applications. These abundant fish, introduced to the Chesapeake Bay, offer a sustainable seafood solution while addressing ecological concerns. …
There’s nothing quite like biting into perfectly fried fish—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. This recipe ensures a crunch that lasts, making it ideal for serving fresh or even as a takeout-style dish. The Secret to …
A Flavorful Whole Fish Recipe Perfect for Spring and Summer Prep Time: 1 ½ hoursServings: 2 Why Cook Trout Whole? Cooking trout whole enhances its flavor and presentation while making use of every delicious bite that is often lost to …
Seventeen-year-old Riley Isaacs of Bradleyville, Missouri, secured a place in the record books by arrowing a redear sunfish that officially became the first Missouri state-record fish of 2025. The panfish, caught while bowfishing Lake Taneycomo on April 18, weighed in …
Oklahoma fishing guide Bryan Baker has broken his own world record by landing a massive 118-pound, 10-ounce bighead carp at Grand Lake. The catch tops his previous 2023 record by seven ounces and underscores his ongoing mission to combat invasive …
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has confirmed two new state fishing records set in April, marking notable achievements for anglers and reflecting the diversity of the state’s fisheries. Jason Floyd of Washington, W.Va., established a new state …
A routine fishing expedition off the coast of New Zealand took a perilous turn last Friday when three individuals aboard a 16-foot vessel experienced an unprecedented and hazardous encounter with a large marine mammal. Dean Harrison, Milton Brookland, and Austyn …
A section of Red Rock Creek in southern Montana has been temporarily closed to public access after a startling encounter between two anglers and a charging grizzly bear. The incident occurred on the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, prompting …
Conservation groups are raising serious concerns following Donald Trump’s recent decision to roll back fishing regulations within the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, a federally protected zone spanning nearly 500,000 square miles in the central Pacific Ocean. This move …
Atkinson County fisherman Wesley Daniels landed a giant spotted sunfish while catfishing on the Suwannee River, tying Georgia’s state record. The hefty panfish weighed 12 ounces and measured 8 ½ inches, matching the record previously set by Jamie Boyette in …
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 …
Early spring trout fishing often means braving the elements. Picture this: snow shoveled from rafts just to launch, blizzards turning rivers to slush, and freezing nights that somehow spark the bite. By the trip’s end, the river may swell threefold …
For anglers looking to take their passion to the next level, offshore fishing delivers an unforgettable experience. Far from the shores and beyond the usual fishing spots, offshore fishing opens up a world of excitement, challenge, and natural beauty. From …
Targeting walleyes in water shallower than thirty feet allows nearly all traditional walleye techniques to be used effectively. However, when fish move deeper—as they often do in the summer—many standard approaches become far less practical. On large lakes or reservoirs …
After several challenging years of closures and uncertainty, California’s ocean salmon fishery is finally reopening in 2025. According to Sport Fishing Magazine, this highly anticipated decision marks a major turning point for West Coast anglers and coastal communities that depend …
Trolling is one of the most polarizing techniques in the fishing world. Some see it as a lazy man’s method—an uninspired way to cover water while sipping a cold drink. Others treat it as a finely tuned, highly strategic artform …
Imagine spending a full competition day on the water with Bassmaster icon Greg Hackney. That’s exactly where this writer found himself during the Bassmaster Classic, soaking up not just the sun, but invaluable insights into bass behavior, fishing instincts, and …