Baitshop Life

The Ultimate Guide to Catching and Fishing with Leeches

Leeches may not be the most glamorous bait, but they’re a favorite among many anglers. These slimy creatures are a staple in the diet of many freshwater game fish, including walleye, smallmouth bass, and trout. In this guide, we’ll show …

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

Trick a Trout with a Wet Fly and a Swing

Ready to catch more trout? Swinging a wet fly is an old-school technique that’s still a game-changer. With just one or two wet flies and a standard fly rod setup, you can reel in the big ones in any river. …

October 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kevin

Record-Breaking Hammerhead Catch Sets Texas Fishing Ablaze

A Corpus Christi fishing guide has made headlines with an extraordinary catch – a 10-foot-8-inch hammerhead shark. Tristan Bardin, also known as Sharka Brah, guided his clients to this remarkable feat near Bob Hall Pier on September 23. The shark …

September 25, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

Discover the Ultimate Fishing Paradise: Montana’s Fall Flies and Top Waterbodies

As the fall season arrives, Montana’s world-class rivers, streams, lakes, and spring-fed ponds come alive, providing a fishing paradise for both traditional and fly-fishing anglers. With over 400 fishing access sites managed by Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, the opportunities …

September 22, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

Late Summer Bass Fishing: Deep vs. Shallow

September 2, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Late summer presents unique challenges for bass fishing due to the excessive heat. Bass behavior changes significantly during this period, with some fish seeking deeper waters while others find relief in shaded shallows. Understanding Bass Behavior In early summer, bass …

Safe Freshwater Wading in Moving Water

August 31, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Wading in moving water can be a potentially hazardous activity, especially when fishing in rivers and streams. To minimize risks, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions when wading in rivers. Essential Gear for Safe …

Stay Warm and Comfortable on the Water: A Guide to Layering for Fall Fishing

August 26, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Sarah

As the temperatures drop, many anglers pack up their gear and head home, but for those who brave the elements, fall fishing can be a rewarding experience. With the right layering system, you can stay warm and comfortable on the …

Featured

Record-Breaking Hammerhead Catch Sets Texas Fishing Ablaze

A Corpus Christi fishing guide has made headlines with an extraordinary catch – a 10-foot-8-inch hammerhead shark. Tristan Bardin, also known as Sharka Brah, guided his clients to this remarkable feat near Bob Hall Pier on September 23. The shark …

September 25, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

Late Summer Bass Fishing: Deep vs. Shallow

Late summer presents unique challenges for bass fishing due to the excessive heat. Bass behavior changes significantly during this period, with some fish seeking deeper waters while others find relief in shaded shallows. Understanding Bass Behavior In early summer, bass …

September 2, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Kelly

Landing the Giants: World Record Trout Catches

Trout fishing is a popular sport that offers anglers the chance to catch a variety of species, each with its unique characteristics and challenges. Here, we’ll take a look at three remarkable world record trout catches that showcase the strength …

July 29, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Garrett

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

July 1, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

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 …

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 …

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 …

Gear

The Art of the Hook Set: A Guide for Fly Fishers

Hooking a fish is an exhilarating experience, but it requires more than just luck. It demands focus, confidence, and a solid understanding of the hook set technique. In this article, we’ll explore the art of the hook set and provide …

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Sarah

The Benefits of Large-Arbor Reels for Saltwater Fly Fishing

When it comes to saltwater fly fishing, having the right reel can make all the difference. Large-arbor reels have gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These reels offer several benefits that can enhance your fishing experience and …

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Rob

Unlocking Autumn Strikes: The Best Tips for Fishing Rapala Lures in the Fall

As the crisp autumn air settles in and water temperatures begin to drop, the fishing landscape transforms. Gamefish like bass and walleye transition from their scattered summer patterns to aggressive feeding sprees, focusing on fattening up before the lean winter …

September 28, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Rob

A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Terms of Fly Fishing

Fly fishing has its own unique vocabulary, and understanding the terminology is key to improving your skills. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started: Fly Fishing Tackle Terms Rod Weight: A numbered system (0-12) that categorizes fly rods based …

September 25, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

The Ultimate Guide to Epoxy Jigs: A Versatile Lure for Any Fisherman

September 24, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Kevin

Epoxy jigs have become a staple in many fishermen’s tackle boxes, and for good reason. These versatile lures are effective for catching a wide range of species, from albies and bonito to striped bass and sea bass. In this guide, …

The Secret to Catching More Catfish: A DIY Bait Recipe

September 21, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Garrett

Catfish can be one of the most exciting species to target for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, catching catfish can be a thrilling experience. One of the keys to success is …

The Timeless Art of Fishing with Antique Tackle

September 9, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

For Bill Sonnett, bass fishing is more than just a hobby – it’s a way to connect with the past. Sonnett, an avid collector of antique fishing gear, fishes with tackle that’s almost a century old. His approach may seem …

Fishing News

Record-Breaking Striped Bass Caught in Ohio Lake

A 72-year-old angler from Ohio has broken the state record for striped bass with a massive 37.375-pound catch. George Bruggeman and his son were fishing at Kiser Lake, a 400-acre reservoir in Champaign County, when Bruggeman landed the monster fish. …

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Sarah

Record-Breaking Murray Cod Sets Upstream Swimming Record for Freshwater Fish

A remarkable Australian freshwater Murray cod has stunned scientists by completing an unprecedented 530-mile journey along a major river system, setting a new record for its species. Named after Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus, the fish traveled mostly upstream before turning …

October 29, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Kevin

Record-Breaking Catch: Nebraska Guide Lands 105-Pound Blue Catfish in Iowa Waters

A monumental catch has been made in the Missouri River, which forms the border between Nebraska and Iowa. Nebraska fishing guide George Thompson, operating Missouri River Catfish Guides out of Omaha, has broken a 21-year-old record for the largest blue …

October 19, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Sarah

Maine Largemouth Bass Sets Record

A 7-pound largemouth bass stole the show on a friends’ fishing trip in Maine. Tom Payne and his friends had been fishing the lakes and ponds near Liberty, Maine, for several days. They were targeting big largemouth bass. The Catch …

October 7, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

Record Buffalo: What You Need to Know About This Giant Fish

October 3, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

Smallmouth buffalo are a type of fish that can grow to massive sizes. Recently, a 54-pound, 7-ounce smallmouth buffalo was caught in Texas, setting a 50-pound line-class world record. What is a Buffalo? Buffalo are a group of fish, including …

Fisherman Sets Record on 9/11 Anniversary

October 1, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Jeff Kolodzinski, known as the “Marathon Man,” set another 24-hour fishing record on September 11 in Spring Lake, Illinois. The final tally was 2,977 fish, breaking his previous record of 2,143 fish. This impressive feat was achieved through dedication and …

Wisconsin’s New Muskie Record Shattered: A 56-Inch Giant

September 21, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Garrett

A remarkable catch has been made on Green Bay, Wisconsin, as guide Jeff Van Remortel landed a 56-inch muskie that has set a new state record for catch-and-release fishing. The impressive fish measured 26 inches in girth and was caught …

Eats

Delicious Mediterranean Salmon Recipe

This easy Mediterranean salmon recipe is a healthy sheet pan dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes. The combination of warming cumin, tangy sumac, and earthy oregano brings a distinctly Mediterranean flair to the dish, while the feta cheese adds a …

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

The Art of Cleaning Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning fish is an essential skill for any angler or seafood enthusiast. Properly cleaning and preparing fish ensures the best flavor and texture, while also preventing spoilage and foodborne illness. Why Clean Fish Quickly? The sooner you clean a fish …

October 29, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

Campfire Trout with Lemon Butter: A Reel Catch

There’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly caught trout, cooked to perfection over an open flame. This recipe for campfire trout with lemon butter is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy your catch. Ingredients: 2-3 fresh trout fillets …

September 4, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Kelly

6 Easy Ways to Make Fish Taste Less Fishy (That Aren’t Frying)

Fish can be a nutritious and delicious addition to a healthy diet, but its distinct taste can be off-putting for some. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the fishy taste of seafood without frying it. Here are six dietitian-approved …

August 18, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Rob

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

July 7, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Sarah

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 …

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

May 27, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Brandy

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 …

How a Pro Chef Makes Crispy Fish Tacos at Home

May 21, 2025 | 🪝 Eats | Baitshop Garrett

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 …

Fishing Techniques and Strategies

Mastering Fall Trout Fishing

As autumn arrives, trout streams come alive with a unique opportunity for anglers. A “fall” of migrating winged ants can trigger a feeding frenzy among trout, making it an ideal time to catch these prized fish. Understanding Fall Trout Behavior …

Capturing the Hidden World: A Guide to Underwater Fish Photography

Underwater fish photography is a thrilling and challenging pursuit that requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and patience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious snorkeler, capturing the beauty of fish in their natural habitat can be a …

Fall Fishing Strategies for a Quick Catch

As autumn settles in, the days grow shorter, and the opportunities to get on the water become more limited. The calendar fills up with football, hunting, and family activities, making it challenging to squeeze in a fishing trip. However, with …

Spinnerbaits for Fall Bass: A Versatile Lure for a Successful Catch

The spinnerbait is a versatile lure that many bass anglers have used since their early fishing days. Its ease of casting, snag-resistance, and effectiveness in catching bass make it a valuable tool in any angler’s arsenal. Some anglers may overlook …


10 Essential Tips for Autumnal Angling

The transition from summer to autumn brings a palpable change to the angling scene. With the leaves turning, the clocks rolling back, and that unmistakable crispness in the air, the waters cool, becoming clearer and often more challenging. For the …

The Ultimate Guide to Spin Fishing for Fall Trout

As the mercury drops, trout fishing can become more challenging, but with the right techniques and lures, you can catch more fish this autumn. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you succeed: Understanding Trout Behavior in Fall During fall, trout …

The Battle of Wits: Smallmouth vs. Largemouth Bass

When it comes to bass fishing, two species stand out: largemouth and smallmouth. While both are popular among anglers, they exhibit distinct behaviors that set them apart. Understanding these differences can help you tailor your approach and increase your chances …