Baitshop Life

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

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: …

May 31, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

Bass Fishing During a Tournament Weekend: What Anglers Should Know

When a long-awaited fishing trip coincides with a bass fishing tournament, it can be both exciting and frustrating for anglers not participating in the event. With competitive pros dominating the water, many recreational anglers wonder whether fishing during a tournament …

May 28, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

Lake Champlain Reels in National Recognition as Top U.S. Fishing Destination

For anglers in search of premier fishing destinations, one standout lake in Upstate New York just earned national praise. Lake Champlain has been ranked among the best fishing lakes in the United States for 2025, according to FishingBooker.com, the world’s …

May 27, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

Cast a Line and Conserve: Exploring the Joys of Fishing on Public Lands

Fishing is one of America’s most beloved outdoor pastimes, offering everything from tranquil solitude in mountain streams to high-adrenaline excitement in deep saltwater. From fly fishing in Oregon’s wild rivers to reeling in big game fish in coastal waters, public …

May 22, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

Bring Back Respect: Why Fishing Needs a Return to Decency

May 21, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

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 …

Texas Angler Reinvents Bass Fishing with 3D-Printed Duckling Lures

May 21, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

The future of fishing is here—and it’s being shaped layer by layer. A Texas fisherman is turning heads in the angling world with a unique 3D printing hack that’s helping him land bass like never before. Goya Lin, a passionate …

5 Game-Changing Fly Fishing Lessons from Conventional Tackle Anglers

May 14, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

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 …

Featured

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

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 …

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

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

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. …

April 5, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Paddlefish: An Intriguing Freshwater Species

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 …

March 27, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

Saltwater Fly: The Apex of Angling Adventure

March 24, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

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 …

Heisman’s Hidden Passion: The Lure of Bass Fishing

March 24, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

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 …

5 Must-Visit Fishing Spots in Florida for Your Next Adventure

March 20, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

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 …

Gear

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

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, …

April 7, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kevin

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

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 …

April 7, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Sarah

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 …

Essential Gear for Your Tropical Saltwater Fly-Fishing Adventure

April 1, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kevin

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 …

Unlocking the Power of Lipless Crankbaits: Tips for Better Bass Fishing

March 24, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kelly

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 …

Fishing News

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

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 …

June 2, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

Angler Catches Largest Freshwater Fish Ever Landed in Connecticut

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 …

June 2, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Could Fishing Be Rewiring Fish Evolution?

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 …

May 30, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Biloxi Angler Reels in Historic Vermilion Snapper, Setting New Mississippi Saltwater Record

The Gulf waters off Mississippi have once again proven themselves a rich fishing ground, as Biloxi resident Joseph Hoang etched his name into state history books with a record-breaking catch. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) officially certified Hoang’s …

May 28, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Sarah

Morgan Wallen’s ‘Fishing ID’ Promo Hits a Snag with Some Fans

May 28, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Sarah

Morgan Wallen is topping charts again with his latest album, I’m The Problem—a sprawling 37-track release co-written by 49 songwriters. The physical versions of the album, sold exclusively at Target, are flying off shelves, not just for the music, but …

Angler Lands Giant 24-Pound Brown Trout, Shattering Shaver Lake Record

May 22, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Kevin

A quiet day of fishing at Shaver Lake turned into a legendary moment for 72-year-old angler Steve Jones on May 16, when he landed the lake’s largest recorded brown trout. The fish measured an astonishing 37.5 inches and weighed in …

Mahi Milestone: Georgia Angler Ties State Record with 68-Pound Catch

May 22, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

Cade Quick of Glennville, Georgia, has reeled in a trophy-sized dolphin fish — also known as mahi mahi — that officially ties the state’s saltwater fishing record. The impressive catch weighed in at 68 pounds, 9.28 ounces and was landed …

Eats

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

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 …

April 21, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Garrett

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. …

Catfish Cake Sliders: A Sustainable Seafood Delight

March 24, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

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. …

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

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 …

Spring Trout Fishing: A Season of Extremes

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 …

Beyond the Horizon: The Top Benefits of Offshore Fishing Adventures

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 …