Author Archives: Baitshop Brandy

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. …

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. …

Catch More Catfish with This Simple Hot Dog and Jello Bait Recipe

Catfish are known for their willingness to bite on a variety of baits, from shrimp and worms to chicken liver. However, not many anglers realize that an effective catfish bait can be made using items straight from the grocery store. …