Fishing Tackle

It’s ironic that lead-core line has become all the rage for big-lake trout and salmon fishing. The line has been around since before the invention of downriggers. But anglers are rediscovering how simple, yet effective, lead-core line can be.

Spinning reels are a favorite of both serious and casual anglers, popular for both their ease of use and flexibility. If you’re wondering what features are the most important to consider when stepping into the spinning arena for the first time, or upgrading the reel you own, this buyer’s guide will help you sort out the facts.

Night fishing can be an exhilarating experience. It's a fun activity full of mystery and expectation. When will something take the bait? What will it be? Will I overcome it, or will it overcome me?

There was a time, in the not so distant past, when I was fishing I would immediately get discouraged at the sight of grass mats, lily pads, and heavy vegetation while in pursuit of a big bass. I had the attitude that an area of water covered in vegetation was something that could not be fished. I didn't want to get hung up, lose my lure or worse, lose a keeper as I reeled it in.

Matching each fishing rod to the technique for which it's best suited will make throwing baits and fighting fish much more efficient. Below are seven rod suggestions for some of the most widely used bass fishing techniques.

TIP: Quick Links to best rod suggestions for fishing techniques:

The name Lew's, is known by fisherman all over the country as a company that strives to live by their mottos, which is that of building innovative fishing gear that are lighter, stronger and faster.

Mark Zona, host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show, grew up fishing the cold-water months in Michigan always believing that a blade bait was the best weapon in 35- to 45-degree water. 

He’s been proven wrong. Using a swimbait, he’s tapped into 100-fish schools bunched up in cold water looking to feed.

Many bass pros place far less emphasis on lure color than on other factors. They know it's more important to learn fish's location and mood (active or inactive) than to pick a bait with the right size, shape and action. Then, finally, comes choosing lure color. Its priority in this selection process is indicative of its importance, or lack of it.

During the late winter and early spring, while many anglers wait to take their boats out of storage until warmer weather arrives, Bass Pro Shops Cabela’s Fishing Pro Mike McClelland not only has his boat ready but a game plan in place also.

For any student of bass fishing, they’re well aware of the place in history held by the French Fry worm. Once upon a time, it was a staple in any anglers’ boat whenever bass were being stubborn.