Aug 20, 2009

A Beginner's Guide To Trout Fishing

For those of you who are new to trout fishing I figured I'd write a quick article titled, a beginners guide to trout fishing, to give you some simple and basic trout fishing tips that will help you be more successful. It isn't very different from any other type of fishing (obviously) but there are certain simple things that can be implemented to tip the odds into your favor.
I've personally been fishing for trout for more than twenty years, and learned from an angler that was someone I consider to be a trout fishing master. This man (who I refer to as my fishing mentor) was a highly successful trout angler, and some of the simple tips and techniques he developed/used will most certainly help you on your journey.
The first thing to keep in mind in reference to trout fishing is that light gear should be employed. Actually, in a perfect world, ultra light gear should be employed. When I refer to gear, I'm referring specifically to your rod, reel, and line. So ultra light rods and reels, spooled with light line should be used for trout fishing. By 'light line' I mean six-pound test at the heaviest. I personally prefer four-pound test, but six-pound test is passable, especially for a beginner.
The reason we use such light line is because trout are found in cold clear water, and fishing line is much more visible in these types of conditions. Couple this with the fact that trout have very keen eyesight, and the bottom line is that light line needs to be employed when trout fishing. Ultra light rods and reels make using light line much easier as well. Not only this, but using ultra light gear makes catching fish a ton of fun as well.
The next thing for the beginning trout angler to understand is that certain days and times of the day are more productive than others. What, you don't believe me? It's true; there are certain times that are better for fishing than others. As a matter of fact, when the moon isn't in my favor for example, I tend not to even bother going fishing. The key to understanding the most opportune times for fishing lies in understanding the weather and moon.
When fishing for trout it's always a good idea to use live worms as bait. My mentor used live worms for trout bait almost exclusively. And the best way to rig a live worm, when using it as bait, is a set of pre-tied gang hooks. My mentor was the first person that I ever saw using this method for freshwater fishing, and it is highly effective. For me, trout fishing and gang hooks go hand in hand.
These simple tips will help the beginning trout angler have a lot more success. How am I so sure of this? Because I've been using every one of these tips for more than twenty years and know from experience how effective they are. Remember, there's no substitute for spending time on the water, and as you implement and practice these techniques you will become even more adept at catching trout.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country... Montana!
The Original Rod Ruler... http://www.jrwfishing.com/rodruler.htm

Aug 18, 2009

Fishing on the Fly - Around the Lighthouse Reef Atoll!

Belize is naturally bestowed with a marine ecosystem that is conducive to the propagation and diversification of an astounding variety of marine flora and fauna. The Belize Barrier Reef acts as a natural shelter and source of food for a wide variety of fish - which in turn attract large exotic fish as well as large predatory fish, thus completing the eco-cycle. The ecological blend of freshwater rivers, sub-tropical climate, sandy beaches, inter-coastal waterways, sea grass beds, salty marshes and estuaries and not to forget the mangrove forest makes Belize one of hottest fishing destinations of the world.
Fly Fishing on the go...
Its often said that Fly Fishing follows saltwater streams - and this makes Belize, with its array of saltwater flats a haven for fly fishing. So, if you are hooked on tarpon, bonefish or a permit - then Belize is buzzing with Fly fishing spots for you. A tarpon in Belize's saltwater flats can weigh up to 90 lbs - so they are by no means in fly weight category. But, hold your breath, since these tarpons can reach to an amazing 200 lbs - lovingly called "Saltwater torpedoes". And if you haven't caught permit yet, then the first thing that you need to learn is 'to have tons of patience". Permits have a very discerning sense of smell aided by brilliant eyesight - making it a very prized game fish in the Belize waters.
Deep Sea Fishing...Beyond Lighthouse Reef Atoll!
At some point in time, every angler worth their salt tries to move outwards for a deep sea catch. Deep sea fishing not only needs a lot of patience and agility but also brute strength. Most of the deep sea fish will test your muscle power and will look you in the eye before deciding to come on board.
While in Belize, you can hope for quite an interesting mix of species - Dolphin, also known as Dorado or Mahi Mahi; Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish and Marlin. Dolphin is one of the best looking species in sea and their jumping antics are well known to seasoned fishers. They can weigh up to 50 lbs and the gaming season for Dolphins is between June and July.
Many visitors ask the question - "Why are fishing boats so brightly colored?" Those who live off the sea would swear that most sea fish are attracted to bright colors. So whether you are fishing for a Sailfish in spring, Wahoo in winter or King Mackerel during summer, a dazzling boat color is likely to increase your bounty.
Fishing on the Reef & Outer Wall
Where can you find Barracudas, Jacks, Groupers and Snappers just off the reef? Maybe, in a couple of places in Australia and Mauritius and that's it. But, the Barrier Reef of Belize is one well kept secret worth discovering - You only need a line, hooks and live bait and wait for the schools of fish coming to gorge themselves on crabs and sardines that pack the reef.
While the In-reef fishing might fetch you a 'mutton snapper' and 12 other species of smaller snapper weighing up to 5 lbs, the real action is on the outer reef. Here, the prize catch will be a King Mackerel and true to its name it will test your fishing skills - It won't go down without a good fight.
Fishing - In the right places...
Belize is a fishing paradise and areas around Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the Barrier reef are the treasure trove for all type of fishing, but a seasoned Belizean fisher will guide you to a few of his favorite joints..
Coral Atolls
If you are addicted to saltwater fly-fishing, the flats around the Coral Atolls such as the Lighthouse Reef Atoll are your best option - Bonefish and Tarpons will be an easy catch.
Belize City
Nothing tops the river fishing in an around Belize city - with Belize and Sibun rivers offering a bounty of game fish like Snook and Cubera. Punta Gorda is another great venue for river fishing.
Dangriga
The saltwater flats are also called "Permit Alley" - the best place in Belize to pocket a Permit.
A fishing conclusion!
From big game fishing to spin fishing, fly fishing to trolling - Belize is abuzz with fish action all year round. Are you game for deep sea fishing or even flat water fishing - Belize is the planet's best known fishing secret. Deep sea fishing around Lighthouse Reef Atoll offers exclusive species like Sailfish, Bonito, Pompano and Marlin.
No wonder that the demand for real estate around Belize has skyrocketed - because of what's happening in the waters around Belize.
Dustin Hart is not a quintessential writer - rather he is a back-packer who lives off his ultra-light folding bike. He lives (or tries to live) in the state of Washington - with his dog Toobs. He recently caught up with Larry Schneider of Eco Holdings Limited, an avid angler himself, in relation to the eco-friendly tourism & real estate in Belize.

Bass Lures - Effective Summer Bass Lures

Bass Lures - Effective Summer Bass Lures

In this article I'm going to list some of the most effective summer bass fishing lures. I'm listing these lures in no particular order seeing as how "the best" bass lures are the ones that work best for each individual angler. Everyone has their favorite bass fishing lures; the point is that you might not have some of these effective summer bass fishing lures in your tackle box/bag. If you don't have any of these bass lures available you probably want to add them.

When water temperatures rise above the mid eighties bass fishing can become much more difficult. Bass (especially largemouth bass) prefer water temperatures from the mid seventies to the mid eighties, and when the temperatures rise above the mid eighties bass fishing can become tough.

A great way to combat high water temperatures is to fish in the early mornings. This is when the water will be the coolest and cloudy days and rainstorms can help with the water temperatures as well. During the summertime it's also a great idea to go fishing when there is the least amount of activity on the water. Once all the toys come out, bass fishing can become all but impossible on many lakes and reservoirs.

So what are the effective bass fishing lures that you need to know about and have access to in the summer?

  1. Top Water Baits - These baits can perform best during the mornings and evenings during the hot days of summer. There are many different varieties of top water bass lures that are effective and some of the best are frog imitations and soft stick baits. Frog imitations such as the rebel Teeny Wee Frog can be extremely effective during the summertime.
  2. Shad Imitations - During the summer months many lakes and reservoirs are full of Threadfin Shad. These bait fish are a staple food source for bass all year, but especially in the summertime. When it comes to bass lures one of the most effective is the KickTail Minnow. Of all bass fishing lures available today, this may be one of the most effective. Shad imitations are a must for any tickle box/bag.
  3. Slow Falling Plastics - Plastic worms and grubs are excellent bass lures in the summertime, especially those made by Slam soft baits . After your early morning fishing and the day (and water temperatures) start to heat up bass will move to deeper cover. Throwing soft plastics at these bass can be a very effective technique. At this time of the year many times strikes come as the lure is falling, so the less weight you can use the better. Slow falling plastics can be a great option in the summer.

If any of these bass baits aren't in your fishing repertoire I would add them. These bass lures are all effective when fishing during the dog days of summer and will help you experience more bass fishing success. Just remember there is nothing that will help you bass catching ability like spending time on the water fishing, so for God's sake get out there!

Aug 16, 2009

Fishing in Patagonia

The Atlantic Salmon is one of the most popular sport fish found in Patagonian waters.  Due to its beauty, fighting spirit and its jumping ability it has become one of the most sought after fish species.  As a matter of fact, salmon actually means jumper in Spanish.
First let me describe a little of the history of fishing in Patagonia.  There are two popular types of salmon; the migrating salmon and the landlocked salmon.  The landlocked salmon was first introduced in Patagonia towards the beginning of the last century along with other species but its ability to survive has been limited primarily to the Limay and Futaleufu rivers as well as the Traful and Cholila Lakes.  Other areas it can be found with less frequency are the Pichileufu, Manso, Traful, Caleufu and Alumine rivers as well as Lake Mascardi.
Salmon primarily feed on other fish but do also eat other crustaceans and insects.  The salmon spawning season takes place earlier in Patagonia when compared to most other places in the world.  Patagonia's cold clear waters in May that are filled with oxygen guarantee successful laying of eggs.  Five months later, depending on the water temperature, the young salmon start their swimming cycle and begin to go their own way in search of food.  From a very early age, they establish small territories to call their own.  When they become adults, they look for their ideal habitat in cold clear waters that are very highly oxygenated.
Here are some of the basics you'll need to know when fishing in Patagonia:
•    You'll primarily find salmon, rainbow trout, brown trout and brook trout.
•    The season runs from the 1st of November through the end of April
•    You cannot use live bait when fishing in Patagonia and no night fishing is allowed.
•    You'll need a fishing permit that runs about $20 USD a day
•    If you are planning on using a certified fishing guide, you should expect to pay around $200-$300 USD per day for up to 2 people.  That includes fishing equipment, boats or rafts and the transfer to and from your hotel.
Marc D. has been writing offline and online content for over 5 years. Please explore his latest interest in home decor where he provides information on toddler bed sheets, twin bed sheets and all types of related bedding accessories.

Aug 14, 2009

Fishing For Trout - What to Use When Trout Fishing

In this article I'm going to discuss what to use for trout fishing. I will draw on my twenty five years of trout fishing experience to give you some great tips that can be used the next time that you go fishing for trout. Most of these tips are geared towards fishing for trout in small rivers and streams, which is where most of my experience lies, but they can be easily modified for fishing in lakes, ponds, and even larger rivers.
One important point to make before I get to what to use when trout fishing is that there is simply no substitute for spending time on the water honing you skills. Just reading an article like this containing trout fishing tips makes no difference unless the new ideas are implemented. As Lauren Hill said, "You don't know how much artists go through to make it look so easy. It's all in the practice.".
In my opinion when you are a skilled angler, you are an artist, so take a few of these tips, practice them, and you will on your way to becoming an "artist". The more time that you can spend on the water, the better off you will be. There simply aren't any magic formula's when it comes to fishing for trout (or any fish), other than our friend practice of course.
  1. Ultra Light Gear - When fishing for trout ultra light fishing gear should always be employed. All too often I've been out on the trout stream and seen fishermen using medium action gear for trout fishing. This is a huge mistake. Always use an ultra light rod and reel, and fishing line that is as light as possible. I personally use four pound test monofilament line when fishing for trout. Light line and gear are integral when trout fishing, especially in small rivers and streams.
  2. Be Mindful Of Your Shadow - When fishing in small rivers and streams you want to avoid casting a shadow on the area that you are going to be fishing. This is a sure way to "spook" the area, especially when it comes to larger, more experienced trout. Always be mindful of your shadow when fishing for trout.
  3. Live Worms - When it comes to live baits for trout fishing there may be no more poular, easy to find, and effective trout bait than live worms. A live worm drifted through the current of a small river or stream is what to use for trout fishing, at least for me 90% of the time. The best way to rig a live worm when fishing for trout is a set of gang hooks. Gang hooks and live worms go together like a hand and a glove.
  4. Small Spinners - Small spinners, in the 3-7/16 size range are a great bait to use for trout fishing. These baits work well in many trout fishing situations, but are great in rivers and streams. If you let them drift through the current, "popping" your rod tip as the spinner flows with the current, the results can be deadly. I've always preferred darker colors such as black and brown, and gold blades seem to be effective as well. Attaching your spinner to your line by using a small barrel swivel is a great tip as well. This will no only prevent your line from twisting, it will allow for perfect action on your spinner.
As far as what to use when trout fishing is concerned, any or all of these tips will make you a much more effective trout angler. Put one or all of them into practice sooner, rather than later.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 25 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his five year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

Aug 12, 2009

Fishing For Trout - Fishing Gear Everyone Needs to Use

I've been trout fishing for my entire adult life, more than 25 years, and in that time have discovered some trout fishing gear that is integral to my success as a trout fisherman. This article outlines that trout fishing gear so that you can add it to your trout fishing repertoire. When it comes to fishing for trout this gear is all a must for me personally, and I believe it makes me a much more efficient and effective angler.
Do you have to have this gear to be a successful trout angler? Of course not, but I know from experience that it will make you much more successful. These items are being listed in no particular order. If something looks good to you, implement it, if not don't. All I know for sure is how integral these items are to my success.
  1. Light Line - In most cases when we are fishing for trout we are doing so in cold clear water. Couple clear water with the fact that trout have very keen eyesight and the result is the need to use light fishing line. I personally use four pound test for almost all of my trout fishing. Some trout anglers use line even lighter than this, usually two pound test. For me, two pound test is to light to tie knots in effectively, but to each his own. The bottom line is that when fishing for trout light line should be your first piece of fishing gear.
  2. A Live Worm Carrier - One of the best baits for trout is live worms and transporting live worms on a trout river can be a complete pain in the butt. This is where an effective live worm carrier comes into play. When fishing for trout having an effective worm carrier means that your worms are always "at your fingertips" for baiting up and re-baiting. This is a huge time saver and gives you more time with your line in the water, where the trout are, rather than out of the water while you bait up or re-bait. This is a piece of trout fishing gear that I wouldn't be able to live without after using one for more than twenty years.
  3. Your Knowledge - Your knowledge might not sound like 'trout fishing gear' in the traditional sense, but it's nonetheless very important to the successful trout angler. You want to read books and articles about trout fishing, and then implement the things that sound right to you. There is no one piece of gear, lure, or tip that will automatically help you catch more trout. What will help you more than anything is your experience and knowledge about fishing for trout. This is why your knowledge and spending time on the water fishing for trout is so important.
The bottom line is that all of these items will make you a better trout fisherman, but none of them are some sort of "magic formula". The more time that can be spent on the water honing your skills and practicing your craft, the more successful you will be fishing for trout.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 25 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his five year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

Aug 10, 2009

3 Tips to Have More Success When Trout Fishing

Fishing for trout is a very enjoyable activity, but when it comes to being consistently successful trout fishing can be quite challenging. In this article I'm going to provide you with 3 tips to have more success when it comes to fishing for these multi colored beauties. These tips are effective for the four main species of river and stream dwelling trout: rainbow, brook, brown, and cutthroat.
All of these species of trout can be caught out of the same (or similar) water in most cases, and the techniques used are the same (or similar). I've personally been using every one of these tips while fishing for trout for more than twenty five years and know how effective they are. I also know that these tips will be equally as effective for anyone who chooses to implement them.
Let's get down to business, shall we?
  • Remember Your Hands - What do I mean by remember your hands? The fact is that trout have a very sensitive sense of smell and can easily detect unnatural scents on their prey. If they detect an unnatural scent (such as the odor of human) on your bait, they are much less apt to bite your offering. This is why you want to "remember your hands", and make sure that your hands are free of any unnatural scents that might be present. This is easily accomplished by rubbing a handful of grass into your hands before baiting up. Trout attracting sprays can also be sprayed on your bait to mask any unnatural scents.
  • Remember Your Line - Fishing for trout is usually performed in cold, clear water and the less visible your fishing line is to the fish, the better. Whenever you are trout fishing you always want to use fishing line that's as light as possible and that you are comfortable with. I personally use four pound test for almost all of my trout fishing, and have found through experience that any line heavier than six pound test is overkill. Always use light line when fishing for these fish.
  • Remember Your Hooks - Many anglers use hooks that are much larger than they should be. Anytime that you're fishing for trout you want to use hooks that are small and sharp. Most trout fishermen use hooks that are much too large in an attempt to make their bait appear natural. This is easily remedied by using gang hooks when fishing for trout. Whether you are fishing in the flowing water of a river or stream or a lake that's been planted with trout, gang hooks are your best bet. Many trout are also "missed" due to dull hooks, so change your hooks often (or carry a hook sharpener) in order to make sure that your hooks are as sharp as possible.
If you want to experience more trout fishing success, add one (or all) of these tips to your trout fishing repertoire sooner rather than later. They will serve you well for many years top come and result in more and bigger trout.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_h

Aug 8, 2009

3 Tips to Have More Success When Trout Fishing

Fishing for trout is a very enjoyable activity, but when it comes to being consistently successful trout fishing can be quite challenging. In this article I'm going to provide you with 3 tips to have more success when it comes to fishing for these multi colored beauties. These tips are effective for the four main species of river and stream dwelling trout: rainbow, brook, brown, and cutthroat.
All of these species of trout can be caught out of the same (or similar) water in most cases, and the techniques used are the same (or similar). I've personally been using every one of these tips while fishing for trout for more than twenty five years and know how effective they are. I also know that these tips will be equally as effective for anyone who chooses to implement them.
Let's get down to business, shall we?
  • Remember Your Hands - What do I mean by remember your hands? The fact is that trout have a very sensitive sense of smell and can easily detect unnatural scents on their prey. If they detect an unnatural scent (such as the odor of human) on your bait, they are much less apt to bite your offering. This is why you want to "remember your hands", and make sure that your hands are free of any unnatural scents that might be present. This is easily accomplished by rubbing a handful of grass into your hands before baiting up. Trout attracting sprays can also be sprayed on your bait to mask any unnatural scents.
  • Remember Your Line - Fishing for trout is usually performed in cold, clear water and the less visible your fishing line is to the fish, the better. Whenever you are trout fishing you always want to use fishing line that's as light as possible and that you are comfortable with. I personally use four pound test for almost all of my trout fishing, and have found through experience that any line heavier than six pound test is overkill. Always use light line when fishing for these fish.
  • Remember Your Hooks - Many anglers use hooks that are much larger than they should be. Anytime that you're fishing for trout you want to use hooks that are small and sharp. Most trout fishermen use hooks that are much too large in an attempt to make their bait appear natural. This is easily remedied by using gang hooks when fishing for trout. Whether you are fishing in the flowing water of a river or stream or a lake that's been planted with trout, gang hooks are your best bet. Many trout are also "missed" due to dull hooks, so change your hooks often (or carry a hook sharpener) in order to make sure that your hooks are as sharp as possible.
If you want to experience more trout fishing success, add one (or all) of these tips to your trout fishing repertoire sooner rather than later. They will serve you well for many years top come and result in more and bigger trout.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_h

Make Anyone a Better Live Bait Angler Live Bait Fishing

Live Bait Fishing - Tips to Make Anyone a Better Live Bait Angler

Live bait fishing in freshwater is one of my favorite activities and in this article I'll provide you with a few tips to make you a much more successful live bait angler. What makes me someone that you should take advice form? Well, the biggest thing is that I've been fishing with live bait for more than 25 years so I've got some experience. Not only that, but I learned much of my original knowledge from a man I've always considered to be a bait fishing "master".


This article is about bait fishing is fresh water for fish such as trout, smallmouth bass, whitefish, walleye, and crappie. My favorite place to fish for many of the above species is in the flowing water of rivers and streams. This type of bait is very effective in rivers and streams, but can also be used in standing water as well. When using this type of bait in still water likes lakes and ponds it's a good idea to enlist the help of a slip bobber.


Slip bobbers are the only bobber that should ever be used when fishing with live bait, in my opinion. These bobbers allow your line to be reeled in and cast as normal. The depth of the bait below the bobber is controlled with a very small piece of rubber called a bobber stop. Slip bobbers need to be employed when live bait fishing in the still water of lakes and/or ponds.


The two most popular (and effective) baits that can be used in fresh water are the minnow and the worm. Both of these baits are readily available and can be used effectively to catch all of the fish mentioned earlier. Worms are easier to keep alive than minnows and having your bait be as lively as possible is a must for fishing with bait.


Another "must" for the live bait fisherman is to use fishing line that's as light as possible. When fishing with live bait we want the bait to be the focus of the fish's attention. The lighter your line, the less visible it will be to the fish. This simple tip will help you be a more successful live bait fisherman. I personally use four pound test monofilament for almost all of my live bait fishing situations and regularly hook and land 2-6 pound fish.


When using live worms as your live bait it's important to have an effective way to carry your worms with you while fishing, especially if you're wading in a river or stream. The best live worm carrier that I've ever seen is the Bait Bag. This little pouch holds your live worms while you're fishing and keeps them at your fingertips so that baiting up and re-baiting takes seconds. A Bait bag is a "must have" item when live bait fishing with live worms.


Another great tip that will make you a better bait fisherman is to always use gang hooks to rig your bait. Gang hooks are just a pair of small hooks tied back to back on light line so the focus is on the bait and not the hooks. Gang hooks allow for a very natural presentation of your bait, especially if that bait is a minnow or a live worm. The natural presentation of your bait is of the utmost importance when bait fishing.


Keep these simple fishing tips in mind on your next fishing excursion. They have been helping me be more successful for more than twenty years and I know they will do the same for you.

Aug 6, 2009

3 Things to Remember When Trout Fishing in Rivers Or Streams

When you think of fishing for trout, the state of Montana more than likely at least crosses your mind. Montana has long been known as a great place for trout fishing, heck movies have even been made about Montana trout fishing (ever heard of A River Runs Through It?) The state of Montana and trout fishing go together like a hand and a glove, there's no doubt about it.
At the end of the day, trout are what brought me to the great state of Montana after years of bouncing around the country in search of good small river fishing. The unfortunate thing about Montana trout fishing is that the focus (as is the case with trout fishing in general) is almost always on fly fishing. Now there is nothing wrong with fly fishing, but I've never personally cared for it at all. I love to fish for trout, but don't like to do it by waving feathers in the air.
More than 20 years ago, my river fishing mentor called fly fishermen "flea flickers", which I tend to agree with. In this article I'm going to provide you with three things to remember when fishing for trout in river or streams anywhere in the world, and none of the tips will have anything to do with feathers. The trout fishing tips in this article are for the hundreds of thousands of traditional anglers out there who choose not to fly fish.
  • Check The Regulations - When fishing for trout anywhere, regulations vary from river to river, and even from stretch to stretch within certain rivers. Some rivers are designated exclusively for fly fishing (a "law" that I've never understood) or artificial lures, and slot limits could be in place. The point is that when trout fishing, make sure you read the licensing book so you know the rules on the water that you're fishing.
  • Do Research Beforehand - trout fishing can be a bit difficult in certain areas without the help of things like drift boats and/or rafts. Many of the "blue ribbon" trout rivers are quite large and all but impossible to fish effectively without the help of a drift boat and/or raft. This is why doing research before going fishing in Montana is a great idea. You want to have an idea of what you're going to be dealing with before heading out. This tip is actually a great tip for any new fishing area.
  • Have An Effective Bait Carrier - Many of the trout rivers that need to be waded (this is the kind of river that I personally prefer) can be quite remote. Especially after you work your way a mile or two up or downstream. This is why having an effective bait carrier is a great idea when fishing for trout in Montana. Having an effective way to carry your bait means that your bait is always right where you need it so you can concentrate on fishing, and enjoying the scenery that trout fishing has to offer.
Keep these 3 things in mind and your Montana trout fishing trip will be much more enjoyable. All I know is that in 25 years of fishing for trout, I've personally never experienced more beautiful trout or fishing scenery that most trout fishing has to offer, and I'm able to experience all of this without waving a single feather in the air. Who would have thought such a thing was possible?
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 25 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

Aug 4, 2009

3 Pieces of Trout Fishing Gear Every Trout Fisherman Should Use

When it comes to fishing for trout there is certain gear that every trout fisherman should use and many times don't. In this article I'll list the 3 pieces of trout fishing gear that every fisherman should use, and reasons why this is the case. There are many trout anglers who choose not to use these important pieces of trout fishing gear and it costs them.
Using the proper gear can make a big difference in not only the number and size of fish caught, but also in the amount of wasted time on the water. In my 25 years of trout chasing experience I've found that the more efficient I am on the water, the more time that I spend with my line in the water where the trout are, rather that out of the water while I re-bait or re-tie. The bottom line is that you want to spend as much time as possible with your line in the water.
  • A Fishing Vest: A fishing vest is a "must have" item for trout fisherman. A vest is the best way to carry your trout fishing gear. This is especially true for any angler who spends time fishing for trout in rivers and streams. Many people think of fishing vests being for fly fisherman, but fishing vests are great for spin fishing as well. The many pockets are great for carrying all of your trout lures, baits, hook removers, extra line, etc. A fishing vest is a piece of trout fishing gear that every trout fisherman should use.
  • A Bait Bag: When fishing for these beautiful fish a bait bag is certainly a "must have" item. As a matter of fact a bait bag is a "must have" item for anyone who fishes in rivers and streams. When you fish in rivers and streams the time spent searching for your bait to bait in your waders or vest is significant. With a bait bag this problem is solved and your bait is always at your fingertips ready to be used. Having your bait hanging from your fishing vest waiting to be used is a huge time saver when fishing for trout.
  • Retractor w/ Snippers Attached: Having a retractor with a pair of small snippers attached is integral to saving time when trout fishing. A pair of line snippers (I use nail clippers) makes tying up and re-tying much faster. When I'm fishing for trout, I have to re-tie either trout lures or gang hooks quite often and having a pair of clippers hanging from my vest is a huge time saver. The clippers being on a retractor is great because the clippers can be used then simply released, and the retractor 'zips' the clippers right back up. Every trout angler should use a retractor with a pair of snippers attached.
If any of the above pieces of gear aren't a part of your trout fishing repertoire they should be added sooner, rather than later. Every one of these pieces of fishing gear will make anyone a much more efficient and effective trout angler. Fishing for trout, especially in small rivers and streams, will never be the same with the addition of this gear.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

Aug 2, 2009

Fishing Crappie Rigs

The simplest crappie rigs seem to be the most effective. A single hook tipped with a minnow and suspended under a bobber and split shot, a mini crank bait, or a small jig are examples of simple crappie rigs. Sometimes a slightly more complex rig is required. Here are two examples.
The first crappie rig is called the Stack Rig. This is a double-bait crappie rig that is being used by more and more crappie anglers. This Stacked Rig works on finicky crappies all year round.
To build the Stacked Rig, attach a size 4 or 6 standout walleye finesse hook 24 to 36 inches above the end of the line. To the end of the line, tie a 1/16 ounce chin-spinner jig. Dress both hooks with the appropriately sized soft plastic. These can be the same or different style of bait. If the crappie are extra finicky, lip-hooking a live minnow to one or both of the hooks is recommended.
This crappie rig can be fished the same as swimming a jig. Using a slow, straight retrieve, swim the rig past suspended crappies, or fish that are staging near a point or hump. An undulating, lift and drop presentation can also be very effective.
The second rig is called the Tailwater Tandem Rig. Spawning river crappies moving upstream often congregate near riprap, wing dams, and other rock structures. The Tailwater Tandem Rig is perfect for searching the fast water that brings in threadfin shad and other forage fish.
Tie a size 8 3-way swivel to the 10 to 30 pound test braid main line. This line will provide sensitivity and abrasion resistance. Tie a 6 inch leader of 10 pound braid between one of the eyes of the 3-way and a floating jig with a size 2 hook. Attach a 24 inch length of 10 pound braid to the other eye. The other end of this line will be attached to the split ring or round-bend snap of a 1/16 to ¼ ounce blade bait. Some blade baits have more than one line attachment holes. Connecting the line to the rear hole will usually produce a wide, slow wobble. The forward hole will usually produce a tight wiggle. A grub or tube bait on the floating jig will complete the rig.
The Tandem Rig should be cast near rock structures such as riprap and wing dams. Allowing the rig to sit on the bottom will cause the floating jig to dance in the current. Jigging the blade bait will cause the floating head to move very erratically. To draw attention, jig aggressively, then twitch to entice strikes.
Either one of these crappie rigs should help to increase your catch.
Chester is an avid fisherman who enjoys being outdoors and going fishing.
Everyone likes to catch fish. If you want to find tips and resources to catch more panfish check out my latest website at Pan Fishing Tips.