Author Archives: Baitshop Rob

Choosing the Right Fishing Line for Ice Fishing Success

January 1, 2026 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Rob

When ice fishing season arrives, most anglers focus on rods, reels, and electronics. One critical piece of gear often overlooked is fishing line. Cold temperatures, icy water, and finicky winter fish place unique demands on line performance. Choosing the right …

How Anglers Target Burbot When the Sun Goes Down

January 1, 2026 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

For anglers looking to shake up the usual winter routine, burbot offer a cold weather adventure unlike any other. Often called ling or freshwater cod, these strange, eel-like fish are closely related to saltwater cod and are one of the …

Kayak Angler Lands a 16-Pound California Pot-Bellied Largemouth

January 1, 2026 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Just before midday on December 13, a routine winter kayak trip turned into a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Max Lee of Clovis, California. As morning fog began to lift from the lake, Lee was scanning the water with his forward-facing sonar, …

Strings, Streams, and Mountain Roads: Why Bluegrass Belongs on Fly Fishing Trips

December 26, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

What happens when music becomes part of the journey Mandolins and dry flies share more than charm—they share a rhythm that fits perfectly into life on the road. As fly fishing trips add up over time, skills improve on the …

From Hardwood to Open Water: Ben Simmons Finds Purpose While Plotting His Next NBA Chapter

December 25, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

Ben Simmons has a team again—just not one playing under bright NBA arena lights. As his professional basketball future remains on pause, the three-time NBA All-Star has quietly shifted part of his focus to another lifelong passion: fishing. The former …

Early Winter Walleye Frenzy: Tips for Catching Aggressive First-Ice Fish

November 30, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing Techniques and Strategies | Baitshop Rob

The early-season walleye bite is on fire, and these fish are hungry! If you’re looking to capitalize on this frenzy, here are some tactics to get you started: Safety First Before you head out, make sure you’ve got the essentials: …

Hooked on Chicago: Tips for Fishing the Windy City’s Urban Waters

Chicago, the iconic city known for its stunning skyline, vibrant culture, and passionate sports fans, is also a hidden gem for anglers. While the city’s concrete jungle may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of …

Chicago Fishing Scene Abuzz with Record-Breaking Walleye Catch

November 28, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

A memorable birthday outing for Leo Garza turned into a fishing trip for the ages, as he landed a whopping 14.3-pound walleye in Chicago’s Lake Michigan waters. The catch, made on a half-ounce jigging spoon dressed with white tinsel hair, …

The Benefits of Large-Arbor Reels for Saltwater Fly Fishing

October 31, 2025 | 🪝 Gear | Baitshop Rob

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 …

Safe Fish Hook Removal: A Comprehensive Guide

October 29, 2025 | 🪝 Equipment Safety | Baitshop Rob

Fish hook injuries are an unfortunate reality for anglers, but knowing how to safely remove a hook can make all the difference between a minor mishap and a serious medical emergency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential …