Author Archives: Baitshop Rob

Anglers Set Two New State Records in West Virginia Waters

May 5, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing News | Baitshop Rob

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has confirmed two new state fishing records set in April, marking notable achievements for anglers and reflecting the diversity of the state’s fisheries. Jason Floyd of Washington, W.Va., established a new state …

Secrets of the Bluegill Spawn: What Really Draws Them In

May 5, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing Bait and Lure | Baitshop Rob

Bluegill spawning is one of the most anticipated spring events in freshwater fishing. Despite years of angling wisdom, myths still persist about how to find active beds and when the bite is at its best. But the truth, supported by …

Southeastern Trophy Smallmouth Bass Destinations

Anglers highly value catching smallmouth bass of any size due to their striking bronze and gold hues, impressive aerial displays, and aggressive feeding behaviors. These characteristics have firmly established the smallmouth bass as a highly sought-after and enjoyable sport fish …

How to Hook a Lifetime Fly Fisher: 5 Fun Tips for Teaching Kids

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Fly fishing with kids isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Teaching kids fly fishing isn’t about forcing technique; it’s about making it fun, simple, and full of adventure. Here are five tips to help …

Blade Baits and Spring Walleyes: A Match Made in River Heaven

April 26, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing Lures | Baitshop Rob

Sure, jigs, plastics, Dubuque rigs, and stickbaits get a lot of love in the spring. But when it comes to lighting up sluggish walleyes, blade baits have been the secret weapon for decades. What makes blade baits so awesome? Simple: …

Spring Ready: How to Set Up Your Jon Boat for the Perfect Fishing Trip

April 25, 2025 | 🪝 Jon Boats | Baitshop Rob

Jon boats are a go-to vessel for anglers looking to fish calm lakes, backwaters, and river systems in spring. Lightweight, affordable, and versatile, a well-rigged Jon boat can provide a customized fishing experience. As spring signals the return to the …

5 Amazing Fishing Spots in South Carolina Anglers Can’t Miss This Spring

April 25, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Spring in South Carolina signals prime fishing season. As temperatures rise and fish become more active, anglers across the Palmetto State are preparing their gear to take advantage of some of the region’s most rewarding waters. From freshwater lakes to …

Rethinking Catch-and-Release: Why Harvesting Small Bass Might Be the Key to Bigger Fish

April 25, 2025 | 🪝 Baitshop Life | Baitshop Rob

Catch-and-release fishing, especially for Largemouth bass, has long been considered the gold standard of conservation. For many anglers, it’s a tradition rooted in family fishing trips, often with the guiding principle of “let it grow.” This approach has helped form …

Tangle-Free Tactics: 9 Expert Tips to Prevent Fly Line Chaos

April 25, 2025 | 🪝 Fishing Lines | Baitshop Rob

Tangled fly lines can turn a productive day on the water into an afternoon of frustration. Fortunately, there are proven ways to reduce those maddening messes. Fly anglers of all skill levels occasionally deal with knots, snags, and twisted leaders—but …

Unveiling America’s Next Largemouth Leviathans

The pursuit of colossal largemouth bass fueled a career in fishing. Growing up near Southern California’s legendary fisheries, tales of record-breaking catches shaped an approach focused on the biggest fish in any lake. The 1990s and 2000s saw California reign …