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The 6 Types of Lures That Will Level Up Your Fishing Game

Fishing is more than just catching fish. It is an excellent way of realizing your individuality and boosting your happiness. It is not only a calming hobby, but it could also be a fascinating and challenging sport that you can enjoy with friends. Furthermore, you can enjoy the smooth waves, fresh air and the surrounding which is a great way to relieve stress. Fishing is exciting and emotionally beneficial. However, it could be quite frustrating and tedious if you don’t catch any fish. To make sure you get the most out of it, you must have the proper lures to level up your fishing game.

Spinners

Spinners are fish lures with metal blades attached to the lure’s wire. As the lure moves, the blade spins generating some vibration and flashes that mimic small fish. Spinners are easy to use since you just cast and retrieve. Provided the blade is in motion, the spinner is working. You should adjust the spinning speed depending on the fish you wish to retrieve.

Soft baits

The lures are mostly used for bass fishing. The baits are made by pouring liquid plastic into a mold and adding scent, dyes or metallic flakes. The lures resemble natural fish food such as frogs, craws, worms or lizards. Nevertheless, some baits, called critters or creature baits do not resemble anything present in water. Since the baits are soft, the fish easily cling onto them for some time before they spit them out. The angler can quickly set the hook. Soft baits are quite easy to use, but the presentation depends on the type of bait. If you use the worm, you can use the Texas Rig technique. For best results:

Use a bullet to rig the worm
On the line above the hook, thread the bullet and insert the hook through the worm’s head.
Put the barb in the worm to make sure it does not hang up on underwater vegetation.
Cast the bait into an area that is likely to have more fish and let it sink to the bottom.
Jerk the rod for some time.
Retrieve the bait and if you still don’t have a bite, sink it again and jerk the rod once again.

Jigs

Jigs are the most flexible lures because they can catch any game fish. Jigs come with a massive lead head, and you can choose from different colors and sizes. The lures are covered with anything, including hair, feathers, soft plastic grubs or any other bait. Here are a few tips:

Unlike spinners, jigs need more attention since the angler determines how the lure moves in the water. If you are distracted, the lure will sink.
You have to cast the jig, and once it hits bottom, retrieve it in different hops.• To make the bait hop, lift the rod tip, lower it and then retrieve the fish line.
To identify the best method, try big lifts, different speeds, little hops and shaking the rod.• You must be attentive because it is quite difficult to detect the strike.

Flies

Trout

Flies are made by tying fur, hair, feathers and other materials such as foam, onto a hook with a thread. They are weightless, and they are made to float or sink in water. More so, dry flies float on water, and they resemble insects or larvae that fall on water from the sky and wet flies are made to sink. Floating flies are however more popular and fly fishing mostly involves manipulating the line or casting the line. There are other types of flies including steelheads, salmon, saltwater, terrestrials, and closeouts. The Fly Fishing Flies are a must have since, despite its difficulty, fly fishing is quite rewarding.

Spoons

Spoons were first used as fishing lures in the 1840s. They are popular due to their ease of use. Spoons are more suitable for larger fish such as the salmon, largemouth bass, trout, muskies and northern pike. The spoon wobbles in water from side to side. To the fish, it appears like an injured baitfish, and this lures them. There are different types of spoons, including trolling spoons, casting spoons, weedless spoons, surface spoons and jigging spoons. Casting spoons are however the easiest to use and are suitable for beginners. To succeed with a spoon, you have to keep some things in mind:

You cast and retrieve casting spoons.
Provided the spoon is wobbly, you can control the speed. However, you must be cautious because if you move very slowly, the spoon may not wobble properly.
When the spoon spins, retrieve slowly.
For better results, put a split ring on the lure’s eye.
Unlike thick spoons, thin spoons are more suitable for trolling since they have a more vigorous wobble. Nonetheless, thick spoons cast better, and sink faster and deeper, compared to thin spoons.

Spinnerbaits

The lures have a wire attached to the lead head. The wire simulates a safety pin, and the body is covered with a rubber skirt. The arm has metallic blades just like the spinners. To successfully fish, spinnerbaits should be cast out and retrieved at moderate motion. For effectiveness, the lure should be at a depth between five feet and the surface.

Although there are many types of lures, there is not the perfect lure for any situation. For an enjoyable and successful fishing experience, you must learn how to overcome a challenge. You should learn about the best fishing techniques for certain situations, by talking to other anglers who love catching the type of fish you like. Chatterbaits have become one of the most popular lures, see this complete chatterbait guide.

Top 7 Essential Fishing Items Every Fisherman Needs

Fishing is a fantastic and relaxing pastime since it provides people with a much-needed break from their busy lives. So if you are looking for a healthy hobby, you should definitely consider taking up fishing. Nonetheless, before you head out, it’s important to ensure that you have enough fishing supply for the entire trip. From Florida Keys to Chesapeake Bay, you would have a good time at any of the fishing spots as long as you come prepared. In the case you are new to fishing and could use some hint and recommendations, this article is for you.

Down below is a list of essential fishing items along with the reason why you have to bring them along. Of course, you don’t need to limit your inventory to these things alone, feel free to add or remove items as you see fit. Preferences and styles vary a lot from people to people so different situations would require different setups. After all, it’s you we are talking about so don’t hesitate to make changes if you feel that the changes would enhance your convenience and comfort. That being said, now let us take a good look at what kind of supply you should take with you on the average fishing trips.

1/ Bobber (Floater)

This is a classic bite indicator and its purpose is to notify you when a fish has taken the bait. As soon the bobber sinks below the water, you know that it’s the time to reel in your catch. Multiple styles are available so you could choose what you like from a wide range of static designs and directional control models on the market.

The most popular choice is the basic round bobber because it’s very easy to manipulate and attach. However, round bobbers limit the depth of your cast. If you want to get the fishing hook deep under water, you should go after slip bobbers.

2/ Line Cutter

Once in a while, you may get snagged beyond recover and the only solution is to cut the fishing line. There are also other situations that require you to severe the fishing line and obviously, you could never do it with just your bare hands. Nail clippers and pockets are often able to accomplish the task but there are several purpose-designed line cutters out there as well.

3/ Spare Fishing Lines

There are many things that could happen to your fishing line: it could get caught in underwater obstacles, it could receive a bite from a giant fish and so on. Therefore, it’s wise to bring spare fishing lines in case your primary line break or get tangled. Depending on the current water conditions and fish species, you need to choose a type of fishing line that possesses appropriate durability and thickness.

You will find different types of fishing lines, including monofilament, braided, flying, wire, and fluorocarbon fishing lines. You can visit Fisherreel to know more about them and find your best match according to your own preference.

4/ Spare Fishing Hooks

Similar to the fishing line, you may lose your fishing hook due to a variety of reasons so you should bring spare ones. In term of design, traditional J hooks would be more than sufficient in most of the case but there are others as well such as Circle hooks and French hooks. Do remember to take into account the fish you want to catch as well. In the case you want to play it safe, stock multiple hooks at different sizes.

5/ Lures

Though a good old hook and some worms are usually enough to reel in the fish, you may want to pick up a couple of lures every now and then. Lures are designed to behave in a particular pattern while in the water order so they would attract fishes in their vicinity. With hundreds of fishing lures available for purchase, you would not have a hard time choosing a suitable set. You probably still need to experiment a bit so you could determine which ones work for you. When you are able to pick out your preferred lure, do remember keep spare ones around.

6/ Plastic Worms

Live baits are good but it’s always nice to have several plastic worms nearby, especially in bass fishing. You are able to reuse plastic worms many times which make them a cost-effective solution compared to live worms. As with any other fishing supplies, there are many size and color options when it comes to plastic worms. Many manufacturers even release plastic worms that are scented to stimulate live baits as well.

7/ First Aid kit

You may get injured unexpectedly while handling the line, the fish or the hook and that is why having a first aid kit around is useful. You don’t need to buy a fancy kit, in fact, you could put together your own kit as well since it’s quite simple. All you need are waterproof bandages, painkillers, disinfectants, cotton pads and band-aids.

What Are The Best Lures For Saltwater Fishing?

You’re standing on the beach, seaspray and wind in your face, holding the rod and looking hopefully into the water— but the fish aren’t biting! As awful as it is to be out of luck, there are always solutions.

I will help you understand the basics of fishing lures and how to pick one. After reading, you will be able to decide what the best saltwater fishing lures are. Read on and up your game!

1. Know your saltwater fishing lure types

At first sight, the different types of lures for saltwater fishing seem so varied they might overwhelm you. Worry not, I’ve got your back!

Fishing lures are artificial baits: they work by making the fish believe they are its real food. The lure is attached to the rod and line, and usually includes a hook to trap the fish when it bites.

There are many kinds of lures, varying in appearance and function. Some of the best saltwater fishing lures are:

Spoon fishing lures: As you can guess from their name, these lures look somewhat like a metallic spoon. They’re designed to move and shimmer like a swimming fish. Their size and shape depend on whether they’re meant for casting (heavier, so they can be thrown) or trolling (generally lighter).
Surface lures, such as poppers: These lures glide across the surface of the water, splashing and making “pop” noises to attract predator fish.
Plug lures: Similar to poppers, but “swimming” underwater instead of gliding on the surface. The movement of the lure is what draws the catch in.
Jigging lures: These items consist of a weighted hook and a trailing section that looks— to the fish— like something edible (think worms, insects, squids, etc.). They come in very different materials and looks, which are meant for separate uses: heavy rubber for bottom fishing, metal for fast casting and retrieving, etc.
Bucktail jigs: These jigs are so successful they deserve special mention. They have a skirt of varying length, which can be made of hair, plastic, feather, or rubber. They work because the movement of the skirt in the water imitates bait fish.
Soft plastic lures: Also called plastic swimmers, they are soft, colorful and resemble prey animals. They are practical and easy to cast out.
Spinnerbaits: This kind of lure is a bent wire with a hook and a spinning reel section. Spinnerbait lures are unique in that they appeal to fish because of their movement and sound, instead of looking like bait.

2. Consider where you’re fishing

The best saltwater lures for surf fishing: Surf fishing is, essentially, standing on the beach or low water and casting the line into the surf. The best lures for surf fishing are poppers (use at twilight by splashing across the surface), casting spoons (as they are heavy, they can be easily thrown into the coming waves), and plastic swimmers (surf fish are especially attracted to anything that looks like food).
The best saltwater lures for pier fishing: Fishing— casting or jigging with a vertical motion— from a pier, bridge or other raised structure works best with either rubber or metal jigs. Rubber jigs can be dropped to the bottom and jerked up and down to attract fish, while metal jigs are good for bouncing and retrieving quickly in a vertical motion
The best lures for inshore saltwater fishing: This type of fishing— wading or sailing in a small boat along shallow waters— favors bucktail jigs, as they resemble bait fish that live in this area when they’re submerged and moving. Spinnerbaits are also successful: in water that may be murky because of sand or soil, their movement and sound make them a good option.
The best saltwater trolling lures: When trolling, you don’t just need a great motor: you also need the right lure to trail behind your moving boat. Plugs, because of their slow underwater swimming, will successfully imitate attractive bait. Trolling spoons are also good: their shape, weight, and shine will make them alluring when trailed.

3. Think of what you’re trying to catch

Different types of lures will attract different fish. Think of the favorite food of your chosen catch. It’s well known, for example, that bass fish love bucktail jigs, and that crevalle jack will go crazy for a popper! You also should use to best spinning reel for bass to fish it.

4. Think (and see!) like a fish

The appeal of the lure to the fish is in how closely it resembles what the fish would normally want to eat.

You might be wondering, then, what the perfect fishing lure color is. It’s a good question, as most fish are able to see colors, with day-feeding species being best at it.

So, if you’re fishing at twilight or nighttime, you can’t go wrong with shiny or fluorescent lures. But, if it’s daytime, the perfect lure colors are light, such as chartreuse, white and gold.

5. Understand weather and water conditions

Besides light quality (whether it’s daytime, twilight, or night), there are other factors that can affect your lure choices. The quality of the water— whether it’s murky or clear— makes a big difference in the fish’s ability to see what you’re throwing at them.

If the water’s murky, you’ll want to use solid, darker lures in neutral-looking colors. On the other hand, if it’s clear, you’ll fare better with lures that look like the real thing: think plastic swimmers or painted metal jigs.

Finally, consider the season: there’ll be different species in the same area, as the seasons change. And different species often mean different lures!

6. Don’t worry too much!

If you fish regularly (or even sporadically!), chances are, you enjoy the activity. Part of this is probably because it can be quite relaxing— meditative, even.

However, if you start fretting too much about what lure to use to maximize your odds of catching fish, you’ll likely stop enjoying it. The best thing you can do is learn what the best types of lures are, consider your fishing location, your desired quarry and its proclivities, and your environment.

If you go through these steps and make sure you are stocked with the best saltwater fishing lures, your experience will most likely be fun. So, brush up on that knowledge, and good catch!

How to Catch a Walleye ?

The North American walleye is a popular gamefish across the northern U.S. and Canada, characterized by large, silvery eyes. Sometimes called a pickerel, it's more closely related to pike/perch species than true pickerels. It provides tasty eating, and with adult weights at 20 pounds and more, it's a great sport fish year-round.

Here are some tips for catching walleye.

Spawning

Walleye spawning takes place in late winter through early spring. This is triggered as soon as water temperatures rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the walleye start moving from the lakes up tributary streams. Curiously, not all walleye will spawn, and some may go upstream just a few hundred yards. If you can find the streams the spawners use, you can target them with jigs like marabou or bucktail. Use bright but natural colors such as white or pink, and jigs that provide a little visual action. Add a plastic tail, or attach a night crawler, minnow, or strip of pork rind. Jig weights should be about 1/4 ounce, though you might go heavier where the current is stronger. Just cast out the jig upstream, let it sink near the bottom, and reel it slowly in with the occasional twitch of the pole as it floats by.

Stillwater Fishing

You can also target the spawners at the mouth of these streams where the lake water is still. In these cases, a live, medium-sized minnow is best, around 3-4 inches in length but not much larger. Hook it through the lips on a 1-4 size hook and attach a couple of split-shot sinkers around a foot up the line. Cast out into the flow of the stream and let it drift into the lake. If you feel your bait is still on the bottom, retrieve it with a little jerk of your pole and tighten the line. Don't expect a hard strike; a walleye is more likely to simply snatch up the minnow and then stop. You'll feel a hooked fish as more of a dead weight. When you take up the tension and start reeling it in, it'll start fighting.

Crankbaits

Crankbaits with a slow, steady retrieve work well in all waters, but the fish can be notoriously finicky. Even in the same spot, they'll sometimes go for certain crankbaits and not others. If fish follow your lure but don't take it, or don't pay any attention at all, it's time to try the next one. Keep a fairly good selection in your tackle box so you can experiment until you find the right one. Use crankbait lures that provide some subtle action, like Husky Jerks, Rattlin' Rogues, and Shad-R. You also try varying the speed of your retrieves, such as a slightly faster crank, or pausing now and then to let the lure settle before reeling in again.

Fishing Shallows

Especially in the spring while waters are still cool, you can find smaller but still perfectly satisfying fish in the shallows near shore, especially in back-water bays and pockets. It's not unusual for six or seven pound fish to be taken in just a few feet of water. Look for obstructions like fallen trees, undercut banks, rock piles and formations, heavy weed growth on the lake or river bed, or even man-made structures like docks or culverts. Small fish like hiding spots, and bigger fish hunt the little ones.

Going After Heavyweights

The summer and fall are the best times to go full out and target the biggest fish. A small boat with a trolling motor, trolling motor battery and fish finder aboard will help you discover the best spots and identify the biggest fish. Use your fishfinder to follow underwater contours looking for deep pockets. Submerged trees, underwater islands, rock ledges, reefs, and sudden drop-offs are where the big walleyes tend to linger. Unfortunately, trolling may not be allowed on all lakes. But where it is, over the course of several visits you can map out the bottoms of even large lakes with your fish finder sonar so you know just where to start looking on your future trips. Add a fairly heavy sinker and drop your live bait straight down into these productive fishing holes. If you choose to use a jig or plug, keep it moving in a moderate S-pattern along the deep edges of these bottom contours.

Side Planers

This is essentially a float that deploys your trolling lines at various angles. You'd be surprised at how many experienced fishermen have never even tried one. It extends the amount of line you can let out with minimal loss of control from drift and sinking. When fishing from a boat, walleyes can get skittish around the boat sounds or even the shape and shadow on the surface. A side-planer board can carry your crankbait or jig up to 150 feet away to avoid spooking the fish. Use of plane boards will depend on your fishing conditions, but if you rely on trolling, having one of these handy could make a huge difference. When you discover a great fishing hole but the walleye seem disturbed at your presence, just back off and deploy your planer board so you can get your jig to the spot from further away.

Downriggers

In the hot weather of summer to early fall, downriggers are another great way to get at the walleye lingering in the deeper, cooler spots. A downrigger is a weighted cable attached to your fishing line that ensure you bait or lure runs at exactly the depth you want it to. Especially if you use a depth-finder on your sonar, you'll know how deep you should set your downrigger to. If the fish seem intimidated by the downrigger cannonball, or forward weight, you can move it farther away from the bait to reduce their skittishness. If you're lucky enough to hook a big walleye, you'll get a great fight and possibly some nice filets that many people compare to flounder as a delicacy. That's why walleye are a favorite target of Northern anglers.

How to Spool a Spinning Reel for an Easier Time Fishing

If you are a fishing enthusiast, you will always want to know how to spool a spinning reel. It is one of the gears that every angler would want to have. Since its introduction, many people all over the world are now using it. It makes it easier for many people to accommodate the monofilament lines and also the newer fluorocarbon lines. It is important that you understand how to spool the spinning reel correctly as it will affect how the line behaves on your reel. It should also be easy to cast the line when the spooling was done correctly.

Quick Tips on How to Put Line on a Baitcaster

Most people looking to venture into the world of fishing may have a number of questions on their minds and it would definitely include how to put a line on a baitcaster. This is something that every angler should know before even they can start fishing.

How to Catch Grass Carp: Tips and Tricks for Having a Great Catch

If you were fish enthusiast, then at some point you would want to catch the grass carp. For most people, it is one of a challenge they cannot just resist when it comes to fishing. Once they get one, they would end up showing off to their friends.

Quick Tips on How to Fish a Fluke

Most anglers are often interested in learning how to fish a fluke. Flukes are often the soft plastic baits that anglers get to use when fishing. The flukes would come in different colors and sizes, so you have to choose the one that you like. Well, the color would not affect that amount of basses that you can catch while fishing, so that any color would do just fine.

The baits are quite versatile so that you can end up using them for catching both the small and big fish. Also, their construction makes them great for fishing in different weather conditions. Let us get to learn more about how to fish a fluke below.

The Important Steps On How To Paint An Aluminum Boat

Mastering the skill on how to paint an aluminum boat will not only beautify your floating vessel; it will also give you comfort because of the protection it provides from the several inevitable battles that your boat may encounter.

While many prefer going to professional painters in the factories, my wish is that through this tutorial you will realize that painting is a creative do-it-yourself activity that will help you maintain your boat while saving your money. What you just need is prepare the materials I will mention and follow the simple steps that I will discuss.

So, let's do this.

Materials needed:

Primer: This is also sometimes called undercoat. The one I use is Duraluxe Marine Paint which is available at Home Depot. Read the can label to make sure that the primer you use is compatible with the paint.
Electric sander: This tool makes smoothing the boat's surface quicker. What I suggest is to use a random orbital (also known as dual action or DA).
Paint: You can use any product that works well with the primer. I recommend that you use the same company and its products all the way through as using different brands can be a little bit tricky.
Marine-grade epoxy: This is available in your nearest boat stores and hardware. What I use is TAP Marine Grade Epoxy which many claims to be the safest epoxy available on the market.
Painter tape: Any brand of this product sticky enough to make removable parts paint-free will work for this tutorial. I use 3M Masking Tape.
Rags or dry cloth: You will use this material in wiping down the boat especially during the preparation stage and after sanding.
Paint brush, roller or paint spray: All these three serve the same purpose; to spread the paint over. Just select which one your hands are more comfortable with when using.
Sawhorses: You will need a pair of these materials for this tutorial. Sawhorses will help balance the boat when cleaning and painting.
Cleaner: Look for a product or brand that is safe to use for aluminum components.
Safety goggles and face mask: These are protective pieces of equipment vital in preventing any heath-related problems you might get from painting

The step-by-step procedure:

1. Mount the boat

Many who decide not to bring their boats to a professional and do the painting themselves tend to forget to start with this step. Mounting the boat is important because it helps you to clean the entire hull or body of the craft thoroughly especially the bottom part. Do this by using a pair of sawhorses to support and carry the boat.

2. Clean the boat.

Making the boat ready for painting is the next step to decorating your boat.

This method includes cleaning of dirt, sands, grease, oils, paints and any unnecessary blemishes on the metal. In scrubbing the hull, you can use any environment-friendly cleaner and grease remover.

You can use scrapper, rags and a hose with high pressure in making the boat spotless. To remove any fading, rough, or loose paint, use the electric sander and begin with 600 grit. If needed, you can sand the boat up to 2000-grit.

Note: The amount of grit may vary depending on the severity of the blemishes.

Creating a smooth surface and making sure to remove all rough patches prevent new paint from peeling and flecking. Do this by starting from the inside area of the boat to the outside.

To better appreciate the process of sanding a boat, you can check the video below:

3. Remove the hardware

The most important thing to remember when detaching the components is to ensure that you take off whatever you can including the window sidings. Use a painter tape to cover deck hardware and accessories that you need not to color; this will keep them neat and protected.

These are almost all the materials you will need for this step. Occasionally, you will need to use other tools such as putty knife and pliers. However, if you are a fish catcher, you may have a fishing pliers; that will work as a substitute too.

Image of https://hubpages.com/

4. Inspect the damaged parts, and repair them

Make sure to check the entire hull to know if there are signs of rust or damage. Identify if there are any cracks, nicks or corrosion. Use marine-grade epoxy to fill in any holes.

You may also need other supplies depending on the severity of the damaged parts. If you are angling, you may have to use some materials anglers use when they fix a fishing reel, so it is better if you bring them as well.

5. Apply an undercoat

It is essential to know that there are several types of primer. What you need for this tutorial is an undercoat manufacturers design for aluminum oxide surfaces. You can use paintbrushes or rollers to do this step, but a paint sprayer can make the coat more even.

Begin spraying the undercoat on the internal part of the boat. Let it dry for several hours (I usually dry it overnight). Turn the boat over. Apply the primer on the outside part of the craft. Allow the surface to dry.

Via https://hubpages.com

6. Apply a topcoat

Choose a paint which is compatible with the undercoat. The process of applying this coat is almost similar to that of the undercoat. The only main difference is that, at times, you will need to apply the topcoat more than once especially when it is lighter than the undercoat.

If possible, make 2-3 layers of paint to ensure that your new boat's color will remain for the years to come. Check if there are necessary touch ups and dry the boat overnight.

For better results, paint your boat during dry, cool day; this saves your paint from troubles caused by excessive heat or the wind. Painting your boat when the temperature is 16-27 degree Celsius with 60% humidity makes a big difference.

Warning: Inhaling paint fumes is harmful to one's health, so make sure to properly your safety goggles and face mask.

To have a clearer picture of some of the steps I mentioned, I have included three separate audio-visual presentations which discuss the ways to restore your aluminum boat.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Conclusion:

Did you have fun in learning the steps I mentioned above?

I know that learning how to paint an aluminum boat may take a lot of time and effort that you might find going to an expert and letting them do the job for you more practical or ideal. I encourage you to give it a try especially when you have ample time. Believe me; it will offer you a fulfilling experience as you hone your skills more while spending less.

If this writing piece helps you, please feel free to give your insights by writing them in the comments section below, or you may also share this article with your friends.

Interested in fishing? If your answer is yes, I suggest that you visit the website below to learn more informational and exciting topics about fishing.

How to Catch Bowfin through the Ice

Bowfin has several synonyms like mudfish and dogfish. They are snake-like in appearance but very aggressive in nature. This type of fish can grow up to 36 inches in length while weighing 20 pounds. Their adaptation allows them to survive in low oxygenated water and camouflage in mud.
Fishing Bowfin isn’t an easy task; they are the worthy opponent in water. Except with the aid of Fishfinder GPS Combo and ice fishing boots, catching mudfish can be tedious. Furthermore, their sharp set of teeth can easily slice a toe or finger.

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