Author Archives: Baitshop Brandy

Spring Surprises: 3 Natural Baits You’re Overlooking

April 27, 2025 | 🪝 Natural Baits | Baitshop Brandy

As waters warm and fish activity increases in spring, traditional baits like minnows and worms often come to mind. However, the natural world offers some surprisingly effective alternatives that many anglers overlook. These unconventional options can entice even the most …

Simple Spring Bobber Setup: A 4-Step Guide

Suspending live or artificial bait beneath a spring bobber offers a remarkably straightforward approach to catching fish in shallow waters. While bobber fishing is often associated with smaller species, this technique proves effective for a wide range, from panfish to …

Mastering the Art of Catching Speckled Sea Trout

The silver flank, purple hues, black spots, and opalescent flash beneath the water give away one of the most beloved inshore sportfish: the speckled sea trout. These fish are not just a blast to catch—they also offer incredibly tasty, flaky …

Virginia Angler Lands Record-Size Hybrid at Cherokee Lake, Then Sets It Free

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Jeff Hubbard of Bluefield, Virginia, reeled in the catch of a lifetime this spring at Tennessee’s Cherokee Lake — but the real story isn’t just about the fish he caught. It’s about the choice he made afterward. Fishing on March …

Top Fly Patterns That Bring in Spring Stripers

Spring offers some of the most exciting fly-fishing opportunities for striped bass, particularly in saltwater backcountry environments. As the sun climbs higher and waters warm, coastal marshes, creeks, and shallow coves become hotspots for striped bass chasing abundant springtime forage …

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

April 21, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

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 …

Spring Strike: How to Master Yellow Perch Fishing After Ice-Out

As winter loosens its grip across the northern states, spring fishing season begins to thaw into action. While many fish species remain sluggish in the cold waters, one fish stands out for its early-season activity: the yellow perch. Known for …

Tiny Hooks, Big Thrills: Why Micro Fishing Is the Next Big Thing in Angling

April 16, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

What’s the thrill in catching a fish the size of your pinky finger? Turns out—everything. Micro fishing, the art of targeting tiny species with ultra-light gear, is making serious waves in the angling community. While the average fisherman may chase …

Mastering Boneless Bass Fillets: A Culinary Angler’s Guide

For any angler, transforming a fresh-caught bass into a delectable meal is a rewarding experience. Mastering the boneless filleting technique elevates this process, yielding fillets that are perfect for frying or grilling. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to …

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. …