Author Archives: Baitshop Brandy

Fisherman Sets State Record with ‘Catch of a Lifetime’ in Iowa: A Historic Black Crappie with a Twist

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

On September 23, 2024, John Foster, an avid Iowa fisherman, etched his name into state fishing history by reeling in a monumental catch. This wasn’t just an ordinary fish, but a potential hybrid crappie that has since captivated anglers, biologists, …

Late Season Angling: A Productive and Scenic Adventure

September 28, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Brandy

Late-season angling brings many advantages, as cooling temperatures and shorter days sharpen fish appetites. With the sun rising later, cooler air temperatures, and a reduction in biting bugs, the experience becomes more pleasant for anglers. A recent trip to the …

The Ultimate Autumn Fly: Why the Woolly Bugger is a Fall Favorite

September 27, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, autumn presents an excellent opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts to hit the rivers. While many fly patterns work during this season, the Woolly Bugger stands out as a highly effective fly for catching …

Catch Chinook Salmon, a Fish Fit For a King

Twenty commercial fishermen gathered around a beach bonfire, their attention quickly diverted by a loud splash nearby. Something significant had jumped in the water near the rising tide of the adjacent creek mouth. “Was that a seal?” one of them …

How Social Media Has Negatively Impacted Fishing More Than Technology

September 25, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

With the rise of artificial intelligence and its widespread application in social media and digital publishing, many may view these advancements as the primary challenge in today’s fishing world. However, the real issue in fishing circles isn’t technology itself, but …

Stick Floats and How to Use Them for Better River Fishing

September 23, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

Stick floats are a go-to tool for anglers targeting fish in flowing rivers. These long, slender floats are designed to offer stability in moving water, allowing for precise bait presentation and better control over drift. While stick floats have been …

10 Essentials You Need to Start Tying Your Own Flies for Fly Fishing

September 23, 2024 | 🪝 Artificial Lures | Baitshop Brandy

Fly tying is a rewarding extension of fly fishing that lets anglers create custom flies tailored to the local waters and fish species. Not only does it save money, but it also enhances the fishing experience by offering the satisfaction …

Waders With or Without Attached Boots: Which Is Best for Your Fishing Adventure?

September 10, 2024 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Brandy

When choosing waders for fishing, one of the key decisions anglers face is whether to go with waders that have boots attached (bootfoot) or those that come without boots (stockingfoot). Both options have their pros and cons, and the right …

How to Get Kids Into Fly Fishing: A Fun and Rewarding Outdoor Adventure

September 10, 2024 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Brandy

Introducing children to fly fishing is not just about teaching them a skill—it’s about fostering a love for nature, patience, and adventure. Fly fishing has become increasingly popular with families looking for ways to bond outdoors. With the right approach, …

Fall Fishing Success: Where to Jig for the Best Catch

August 30, 2024 | 🪝 Fishing Lures | Baitshop Brandy

Fall is a prime season for fishing, as many species become more active in preparation for the winter months. One of the most effective techniques during this time is jigging, a method that involves moving a weighted lure (jig) vertically …