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From all of us at Wired2Fish.com we would like to wish you all the very
best for 2010! We would also like to thank you for being part of W2F
over the past year. We know you have many choices out there on the web
and we're humbled that you spent a little of your time to be with us!
We have some new changes in store for 2010 so stay tuned.
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Today on Unplugged presented by Berkley Wired Contributor Terry Battisti talks to RJ Bennett and gives another Western Perspective of what makes him tick and what he thinks about unlimitied practice. To read click here. |
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There has been a lot of talk over the last few years regarding practice periods and whether or not they actually hurt the angler and/or the tournament. Do these extended or even non-existent off-limit periods make the bite tougher and do they keep anglers locked into recent history rather than allowing them to fish the moment?
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Every year all of us make New Years Resolutions we don't keep. Lose weight, spend less, be more kind, hope that bi-partison politics is not a myth, fish more, listen better.....yada, yada, yada. This year at Wired we have few that we will do our best to make come true.
1. Give away more great products from the worlds best advertisers in contests and promotions. Count on this one!
2. Learn how to fish a drop shot and a spinning rod more effectively. Up to now we look like a Argentinian cowboy with a bolas roping a llama with one in our hands.
3. Provide more cutting edge video with how-to's and the best products.
4. Lose weight
5. Find a way to clone the staff at Wired2fish to get twice as much done each day. Seven days just doesn't seem like enough time.
6. Lose weight
7. Provide more Wired Radio programs each week. Talk to both pro's and grassroots hero's.
8. Lose weight
9. Drink more milk.
10. Find a way to get more tackle in our new Plano Tackle System. ORGANIZE my tackle.
11. Provide more inside tips and techniques from the pro's.
12. Lose weight
13. Figure out a way to highlight our awesome readers.
14. Utilize the next Twitter, Facebook,
15. Get Todd Hammill 3 extra staff people to respond to emails.
16. Lose weight.
What are your top 3 resolutions?
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U.S. Angler’s Choice, the largest team tournament organization in the country is pleased to announce the addition of Bill Hutcheson to their tournament staff. “Hutch,” as he is known in the outdoor community, will be heading up the day to day operations of U.S Angler’s Choice Tournament Trails, overseeing the Pro-Am, Pro-Teams, and the Western Rookie League events as a part of his many functions in this newly created position.
“I am excited to be a part of the U.S. Angler’s Choice team and am looking forward to enhancing the benefits that we can offer our fishermen”, Hutcheson stated. “The synergy of U.S. Angler’s Choice, BASS WEST USA Magazine, the Westernbass.com website, as well as the retail units that make up Basstackledepot.com and her brick and mortar stores, create a bevy of opportunities for sponsors and anglers alike in terms of promotion and exposure. We have an outstanding group of tournament directors and I am looking to build upon this existing structure to provide quality events throughout all regions of the country”.
“I am very pleased to have someone of Hutch’s caliber as a part of the U.S. Angler’s Choice team,” noted Mark Mendez, President of U.S. Angler’s Choice. “His experience and integrity in running Pro-Am events, including premier tournaments such as the U.S. Open, shows he has what it takes to further strengthen U.S. Angler’s Choice as the premier weekend bass fishing circuit in the country.”
“Hutch and I talked over several meetings in the process of discussing our partnership, and it became clear that his skills and experience presented our organization a unique opportunity,” Mendez continued. “We have plans for a major Open event in Northern California, and Hutch certainly can help organize that, along with provide an increased focus on the day to day operations of U.S. Angler’s Choice. His addition, along with the hiring of three WON BASS team directors this fall, and the team we already had in place; give us one of the most talented teams in the business.”
A marketing and economics graduate of Cal State Fullerton in 1987; Hutcheson brings 30 years experience in the outdoor industry to the table. Involved in fishing tournaments since 1993, Hutch is a former WON BASS tournament director who has also conducted numerous grass roots type fresh and saltwater events. Look for future announcements on tournaments for species other than bass to be held under Hutcheson’s direction in 2010.
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Drew Arvary of Port St. Lucie, Florida recently caught(September 2008) a 13lb, 2oz bass on a Zoom Black Yellow Swirl Horny Toad that captured the Florida State Record in the 4lb line class category. He was using a 5/0 Zoom Frog Hook with 4 pound Ande and a Seaguar leader for his catch. The IGFA recently certified his catch as a new world record. Congrats Drew and congrats Zoom.
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The FLW American Fishing Series is headed to Lake Falcon Jan. 7-9 for the first of three stops in the Texas Division series. As many as 300 pro and co-anglers will be competing for top awards of $25,000 and $10,000, respectively.
Anglers will take off from Zapata County Boat Ramp located at #1 County Road in Zapata, Texas, at 7:30 each morning. Weigh-ins will be held at Zapata County Boat Ramp beginning at 3:30 p.m. Takeoffs and weigh-ins are free and open to the public.
The Lake Falcon American Fishing Series tournament is being hosted by the Zapata County Chamber of Commerce.
Pros will fish for a top award of $25,000 plus a 198VX Ranger with 200-hp outboard if Ranger Cup guidelines are met. Co-anglers will cast for a top award of $10,000. If the co-angler meets the Ranger Cup guidelines, they will earn an additional $5,000.
The American Fishing Series consists of four divisions in 2010 – Central, Northern, Southeast and Texas. Each division will consist of three tournaments and competitors will be vying for valuable points that could earn them a trip to the American Fishing Series Invitational on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Ala., Nov. 4-6. The points champion from each division will qualify for the Forrest Wood Cup and a fifth Forrest Wood Cup qualifier will advance from the Invitational that is open to the top 50 anglers from each division.
In American Fishing Series competition, pros supply the boats, fish from the front deck against other pros and control boat movement. Co-anglers fish from the back deck and compete against other co-anglers. Every angler who receives weight credit in a tournament earns points that determine angler standings. Two hundred points are awarded to the winner, 199 points for second, 198 points for third, and so on. The full field competes on days one and two, with the top 10 pros and 10 co-anglers advancing to day three based on their two-day accumulated weight. Winners are determined by the heaviest accumulated weight from all three days.
Total awards are based on a full field of 150 boats in every tournament.
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Mark Jeffreys at the BassZone just launched a new version of his website today. Some neat new features and more tournament coverage on location this year from the BASS Elite Series is promised. We will again be working with Mark, Harold and Matt and have updates from each stop on the Elite Series. To check out the new look click here. |
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The Bass University gave Wired2Fish a sneak peak at the seminar topics in Sacramento and they look like something that every California angler would want to know. Kent Brown will be the Master of Ceremonies for this stop.
Brent Ehrler will be talking about shallow water cranking, shaky heads,and wacky jigs.
Michael Bennett will concentrate on California spotted bass and Gary Dobyns will be talking about his go-to technique of Rip Baits.
You still have time to sign up by going to the Bass University by clicking here.
We will be highlighting Pete Gluszek next week about the upcoming BU's on Wired Radio with Terry Brown.
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KickerFish Bait Company has expanded their HighTail Series with a new larger HighTail Lizard and 11 inch HighTail Ribbon Tail worm that are already hotter than a two dollar pistol. The KickerFish HighTail Ribbon Tail worm has the same hole design as the other HighTail baits that makes the tail stand up. Field tests by the KickerFish staff on Lake Falcon not only produced numbers of bass but some giants as well."We had some awful weather when we were testing the new worms, temps in the 40's, but we still smoked them" said KickerFish owner Kelly Jones. "I took 1000 prototype worms for the week of testing and brought home 60. We tried other baits but it seemed that they only wanted the HighTail."
The Ribbon Tail HighTail Worm's tail floats high and the bites are ferocious. Several bass in over 9 pounds were caught at Falcon while testing on this worm. (See photo above)
The worm comes in :
Green Pumpkin
Green Pumpkin / Blue
Green Pumpkin / Red
Plum
Redbug
Watermelon Candy Red
Watermelon Red
Junebug
It retails for $3.99 and comes in a package of 9.
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There is a group of anglers out there that know the value of hand poured baits. They are a special breed and are hooked on hand poured baits because of their hand crafted characteristics. The baits they use combine the uniqueness of hand pour shapes that make each bait different and special color blending that can also be different into a single package. Each bait can be a touch different and that is a good thing to lovers of hand pours.
Hand poured baits are in a class by themselves and die-hards believe that they are better. The Poor Boys Silly Bunny is one of those baits that offer hand pour purists with the perfect swimbait. Great action, lifelike look and feel and enough bulk to be cast long distances.
The Poor Boy's Silly Bunny is a small profile hand poured swimbait that combines a slender body and paddle tail design. The Silly Bunny is the ideal choice when the fish are feeding heavily on smaller baitfish or in pre-spawn mode looking for an easy meal. The side to side wobble created by the boot tail gives off a vibration that is unique and one that bass cannot resist. Largemouth and smallmouth alike love the size and shape of this bait.
The Poor Boys Silly Bunny features a hook slit in the belly that makes this swimbait extremely weedless when rigged Texas style. Ideal for fishing heavy cover such as grass and wood, the Silly Bunny can be rigged with a straight shank 4/0 hook or a specially designed and weighted swimbait hook. For open water applcations where hang-ups are not an issue a treble hook rig can be used.
This swimbait is hand poured with a high salt content and porous body. The pores make the Silly Bunny a great choice when applying scents to the bait as well. The Silly Bunny will hold scent longer than other smooth bodied injection molded plastics.
The Silly Bunny comes in two sizes, 4.5 and 5.75 inches, and is on sale at Tackle Warehouse for $3.49 per package. You can buy them by clicking here. |
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Today on the Next Generation Tackle Box we take a look at the Haber Kenai Sunglasses. To read click here.
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Whether a weekend angler or a professional angler fishermen need to go into the new season with a fresh outlook. Professional angler Chad Brauer jotted down his fishing New Year Resolutions for 2010. Learning from the past to improve our fishing is the goal.
Here are Chad's 5 Fishing Resolutions:
1. Work on techniques I have little confidence in. For me this will be centered around the drop-shot rig. Though I have fished it a bit, my confidence is not high when I am using it. My game plan for improving with the drop-shot will be to hit the lake with nothing but drop-shot stuff in the boat. This will prevent me from switching gears if the drop shot does not produce quickly. By forcing myself to fish it all day I can really learn how to fish around cover, different presentations, what bites feel like, even how to hook and land fish. The bottom line is that you have to spend time with a technique on the water to improve at it, and by focusing on it for a full day there is no distraction.
2. Do more to help conserve our fisheries. Sometimes making the effort to do this requires a bit of work, but if we do not do it as fishermen, then who will? I plan to take better care of my fish when handling them in the boat, being careful to preserve their slime coating as best as possible. Also keep my boat free of aquatic vegetation when pulling my boat out of the water. Spreading exotic vegetation is a big problem in many fisheries. Get someone new started in fishing, the greater the interest in the outdoors, the easier it will be in the future to conserve the resources.
3. Take better notes when out on the water as well as at the end of the day. Keeping track of conditions and how you adjust to them is a great learning tool, especially on bodies of water where you spend a lot of time. Tournament fishermen may have year pass between trips to a lake, and a lot of information can be forgotten over that time. Keep notes on anything that stands out to you, I really pay attention to water clarity and temperatures, water levels, weather patterns, GPS waypoints, and techniques that were successful. Then when I go back, I have some references that give me some confidence in how I prepare and pack.
4. Eat better when on the water. This is a big one for me, as I like to eat. When you spend day after day on the water, if you do not eat right it takes a toll on your performance. The problem often lies in trying to conserve time while eating, not many snack foods are good for you. I have had luck with taking extra time preparing a couple sandwiches for each day along with some fruit. Though these take a bit longer to eat on the water, the diet is worth it. My biggest downfall is drinking sodas on the water, empty calories. By substituting a water for a couple sodas I should save a few hundred calories.
5. Finally is to have more fun on the water. Fishing tournaments is a business and can take some of the fun out of fishing. Remembering how much I really like to fish can keep my focus during tough fishing days when the bite is tough. The old cliché of a bad day on the water is better than a good day in the office should always apply.
Hope everyone has a great holiday season and a 2010 full of great fishing.
Do you have your fishing resolutions completed for 2010. Send us yours and we will pass them on. Send to feedback@wired2fish.com.
Happy New Year!
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Bass University is excited to announce a special limited time offer for Bass University students. Originally slated for Sacramento only, this special offer has been extended to all cities. Dinner with the Pros is an opportunity to have one-on-one conversation with the most recognizable and respected professional anglers on the tournament trail. In attendance will be Mike Iaconelli and Pete Gluszek. Other pro anglers and bass university speakers such as Ish Monroe, Gerald Swindle, Dave Wolak, Brent Ehrler, and John Crews among others are also potential attendees, varying for each city.
“Dinner with the Pros” will be held on Saturday night of the two-day weekend, at a nearby location. Two winners will be selected from all registered students. In order to qualify, students need to register on www.thebassuniversity.com before Jan 8th. Winners will be announced on our website and on facebook and twitter.
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Northeast Elite Series angler Mark Burgess recently got his fill of snow plowing when a major winter storm dropped up to 24 inches of the white stuff on his hometown. He plows snow in the off season and this was one to remember. Wired contributor Alan Clemons caught up with him and discussed fishing versus plowing in todays Unplugged article. To read it click here.
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When a monstrous winter storm assaulted the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast a week ago, Mark Burgess figured he might get a call from his brother.
He did, and 40 hours later after manning a snow plow on the streets of Holbrook in the “south shore” area of Boston, he was ready for a break.
“It’s almost like being abducted by aliens,” Burgess said. “You almost give up part of your soul.”
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All of us here at Wired2Fish want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas. Remember not to forget those that defend our country away from friends and family during the holiday season and allowing us to do what we do each day. Without them we wouldn't have that chance.
We appreciate all of you!
God Bless and have a very warm and fruitful Christmas.
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Humminbird has announced 3 new products for ice anglers that hit the mark on the latest technology at an affordable price. The ICE55, ICE45, and the ICE35 allow those who love to ice fish the chance to get a quality depth finder at a range of price points.
The ICE55 is equipped with 6-color fiber optic flasher, extreme temperature LCD with digital depth and a professional grade carrying case that is included.
The ICE45 is a 3 color fiber optic flasher that has a center dial LCD and built to withstand temps as low as -20 degrees F. The ICE35 is also a 3 color fiber optic display with excellent readability and a dual beam transducer with 800 watts of peak to peak power. If you buy a ICE45 by 12/31/2009 you also get a free portable carrying case.
Wired readers can now rely on Humminbird for both hard and soft water applications.
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 Our buddy Dave is at it again....Check out his Christmas message to you:
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Coming off an extraordinary Bass University in Philadelphia the Bass University staff is shifting into high gear for the next event in Sacramento, CA on January 8-10 at the Doubletree Hotel and then on to Nashville January 23-24 at the Opryland Radisson Hotel. Sign-ups are ongoing and Mike Iaconelli and Pete Gluszek would love to see you there. To register click here. Ish Monroe, Gary Dobyns, Brent Ehrler, and Michael Bennett will be in Sacramento. Gerald Swindle, Dave Wolak, John Crews, and Randy Howell will be on hand to teach and share information with the group in Nashville. Our own Terry Brown will be the MC the Nashville two-day session. Iaconelli and Gluszek will be at all of the stops. Group rates are available at the website.
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FLW Outdoors announced Wednesday that FLW American Fishing Series will be the formal name of what has been the Stren Series. The American Fishing Series, which will host its first tournament in Zapata, Texas, beginning Jan. 7, 2010, is still accepting registrations.
“This circuit will continue to offer anglers some of the best competition in our sport with an opportunity to improve and better oneself, all while having the opportunity to move up and compete on the FLW Tour and ultimately in the Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing,” said Charlie Evans, President and CEO of FLW Outdoors.
The American Fishing Series will consist of four divisions in 2010 – Central, Northern, Southeast and Texas. The Southeast Division schedule was modified with the updated event being held on Lake Seminole in Bainbridge, Ga., April 29 – May 1. Each division will consist of three tournaments and the full schedule is below.
Central Northern
Date Fishery Location Date Fishery Location
March 18-20 Lake of the Ozarks Osage Beach, Mo. June 3-5 Potomac River Marbury, Md.
April 15-17 Lake Ouachita Mount Ida, Ark. July 15-17 Lake Champlain Plattsburgh, N.Y.
May 13-15 Kentucky Lake Gilbertsville, Ky. Sept. 9-11 Lake Erie Erie, Pa.
Southeast Texas
Date Fishery Location Date Fishery Location
Feb. 25-27 Lake Okeechobee Clewiston, Fla. Jan. 7-9 Lake Falcon Zapata, Texas
April 29-May 1 Lake Seminole Bainbridge, Ga. Feb. 4-6 Sam Rayburn Jasper, Texas
Sept. 30-Oct. 2 Pickwick Lake Florence, Ala. June 17-19 Toledo Bend Manning, La.
Invitational
Date Fishery Location
Nov. 4-6 Wheeler Lake Decatur, Ala.
Fields will consist of 150 boats fishing Thursday and Friday and the top 10 pros and top 10 co-anglers advancing to Saturday. Winners will be determined by total weight from all three days. The points champion from each division will qualify for the Forrest Wood Cup and a fifth Forrest Wood Cup qualifier will advance from an Invitational event that is open to the top 50 anglers from each division.
Pro entry fees are $825 per tournament and co-angler entry fees are $325 per tournament. Anglers will compete for top awards of $25,000 in the pro division and $10,000 in the co-angler division, with awards of $800 and $350 extending through 50th place, respectively. If the winner is Ranger Cup qualified, the pro will win a 198VX Ranger Boat with a 200-horsepower outboard and the co-angler would win an additional $5,000. The entry fee in the Invitational is the same as a tournament entry fee.
Registrations are currently being accepted. Entries are accepted online at FLWOutdoors.com or by calling (270) 252-1000. Phones are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time. For additional information, visit FLWOutdoors.com.
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Hanna Robbins is the wife of Wired2Fish contributor Pete Robbins and recently took a trip with Pete to El Salto. Below is her comments about the gender battle that she unltimatley won. Great job Hanna. We are ready for some pictures of you smiling and Pete with a humbled frown on his face.
Since you've been so kind as to publish a lot of Pete's writing over the years, I'm hoping you'll post a message from me in the "What's Up" section on Wired to rebut some of the points he's made in the past. He's always telling me that he needs a nearly infinite variety of lures to be successful on the water, but I found out last week at El Salto that that's a bunch of crap. He and his friends packed about 500 pounds of tackle and I caught just as many fish as any of them with a 100-count bag of 8-inch Kicker Fish Holeshot Lizards (watermelon). Every time Pete turned around to grab another rod he'd have to watch me set the hook on another Mexican bass. Just thought I'd let you know that the girls can catch 'em too, and we don't need near as much tackle to get the job done as the boys seem to think is necessary.
 
Hanna Robbins
Vienna, VA
Good stuff Hanna!
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Among the standouts in the 2010 programming lineup for ESPN2 Outdoors are the much anticipated Tom Brokaw-hosted series Pirates of the Flats, the historic 15th season of Jose Wejebe’s Spanish Fly, the second season of coverage of the Built Ford Tough ESPN Outdoors Saltwater Series presented by Takemefishing.org and fresh faces and places on The Bassmasters.
After months of buzz topped by a YouTube trailer that received thousands of hits, Pirates of the Flats presented by Ace will debut Sunday, Dec. 27, at 9 a.m. ET. Filmed in the Bahamas, the show features Brokaw, who also narrates. The news anchor goes on a weeklong catch-and-release bonefishing expedition, a project in partnership with the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust.
The casters on the show with Brokaw include actor Michael Keaton, fly-fishing icon Lefty Kreh, author Thomas McGuane, mountaineer and outdoor industry leader Yvon Chouinard and photographer R. Valentine Atkinson.
“Every season, new ESPN Outdoors programming entices more sportfishing fans, whether they are drawn to the shows to learn and develop their own skills, or to relax and enjoy the action and adventure,” said Greg Trager, senior director, programming & acquisitions, ESPN Outdoors.
Jose Wejebe is back in 2010 with the popular Spanish Fly. Entering its historic 15th season, the show is now ESPN2’s longest-running outdoor sports program. The 2010 Spanish Fly season will kick off with a two-episode arc Sunday, Dec. 27, at 9:30 a.m., when Wejebe takes to the water with a family of artists to explore the art of Japanese fish rubbings, or gyotaku.
Also in 2010, Wejebe will continue as host of Built Ford Tough ESPN Outdoors Saltwater Series presented by Takemefishing.org. With six new shows, the Saltwater Series programming will capture the fast action of the EOSS’ 2009 catch-and-release tournaments from locations including Abaco, Bahamas, and Islamorada, Fla., for the famed Redbone Celebrity Tournament.
Wanna Go Fishing? jumps into the schedule in the second quarter. Fans of fishing and of football will love the episode shot at the Billfish Bowl in Key Largo during Super Bowl weekend. The big-fish event is a two-day charity sailfish tournament hosted by football greats Mike Ditka and Jimmy Johnson.
In competitive freshwater fishing, the biggest happening is the annual Bassmaster Classic, and ESPN2 will be there in 2010. Bass fishing fans will get more than 11 hours of programming through the three days of the tournament. Footage from Alabama’s Lay Lake and the weigh-in arena in Birmingham, Ala., will be on ESPN2 daily, within hours of the Feb. 19-21 daily competition.
Throughout 2010, bass fishing fans can get their fix with The Bassmasters. New Elite pros and stops at fisheries not visited in past years will add twists to the inherent drama of every Elite competition. ESPN Outdoors personalities Mark Zona and Tommy Sanders will again host the chronicle of the top-tier Bassmaster Elite Series.
Zona will also be back on Saturdays with new episodes of Mystik’s World’s Greatest Fishing Show, while Beat Charlie Moore will have an all-new season lineup. The fishing/travel series Fishing Adventurer with Cyril Chauquet will go deeper into the wilds, as will George Poveromo’s World of Saltwater Fishing with new episodes.
Also, Bassmaster Elite Series pro Byron Velvick of Del Rio, Texas, will host Going Coastal, which airs Sundays at 8:30 a.m. ET, beginning Dec. 27. Going Coastal is an inshore saltwater show that aims to inform and entertain with Velvick serving as the conduit between local experts and the television audience.
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For so many anglers across the country, time spent on the water is cherished and increasingly hard to find. It’s planned for and scrutinized with no detail overlooked. It’s a quest for the ultimate on-water experience and when it comes to equipment, it’s not about compromise. It’s precisely the reason Ranger Boats – in a joint effort with Evinrude – today re-launched MyDreamRig.com, a website built to showcase the very best of the “dream rig” concept.
The concept itself, centered around the idea of a perfectly designed, feature rich fishing machine built exclusively for the most demanding anglers in the world, is a concept embraced by officials at both Ranger and Evinrude. MyDreamRig.com offers visitors an exciting opportunity to see three of the most popular Ranger models in production – the new Z521 Comanche, 621 Fisherman and 1850 RS – packaged with industry-leading Evinrude E-TEC H.O. outboards. The cutting-edge, E-TEC outboard technology celebrates Evinrude’s commitment to exceeding the demands of boaters worldwide for over 100 years.
MyDreamRig.com also offers insight from the industry’s most respected marine manufacturers and boating writers via videos, product reviews and other pertinent information that will equip boat buyers through their purchases during the forthcoming boat show season. With a wealth of information, MyDreamRig.com is designed to turn dreams into reality for anglers and boaters across the country.
For more information, visit www.MyDreamRig.com.
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North Carolina's Brent Long qualified for the Bassmaster Classic and the FLW BFL All-American in the same year. Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown he talks about what making them means to him. Click here to listen.
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Bruce Bachlor of Cincinnati, Ohio does a great job with his Night Before Christmas Wired2Fish wish.....This is one for the archives! Great job Bruce.
Twas the day before Christmas, and all through the house,
you could hear me yelling while clicking my mouse.
I had nothing but bass fishing stuck in my head,
and it seems that Wired2fish's servers were dead.
When out on the lawn there arose such a crash,
I thought that my neighbors were taking out trash.
I went to the window and looked through the glass,
In time to see the mailman fall on his a**.
I went through the door and offered to help,
but slipped on the ice and let out a yelp.
We smiled at each other in shared agony,
and I asked him if he had a package for me.
Both of us struggled to get to our feet,
we both slipped again, and our foreheads did meet.
I cursed the foul weather, and apologized,
but the mailmans next actions made my spirits rise.
He reached into his bag and pulled out my mail,
And seeing it nearly made my heart fail.
Nestled within his thickly gloved hands,
was a present that met all my fishing demands.
The return address simply said "Wired2Fish",
and I knew it contained everything that I could wish.
I opened it up, and a smile crossed my face,
and I gazed at the snow all over the place.
With my heart full of joy, I could say just one thing,
"I wish Christmas was over- I can't wait until Spring!"
Bruce Bachlor
3068 Aries Ct.
45251
E-mail: bruce@mrlabelco.com
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Kenny Brugger from Lexington, South Carolina brings us the Night Before Christmas fishing style:
Was the day before fishing and all through the pond not a Bass was stirring not even a Hawg
The lures were hung on each rod with care in hopes that Old Bucket soon would be there.
The boat and I had gone to bed with dreams of a limit and a trophy in my head.
When all of a sudden there was such a clatter the alarm clock had rung and it was tomorrow.
I sprang to my feet and in a flash I had everything on that really mattered.
The sun was rising and we were idling.
When a little old man so lively and quick jumped up said go catch some fish.
On Yammy on Merc and Evinrude too we left some blue smoke as away we all flew.
I got to my spot and fished for a Toad I caught a few fish but never anchored my load
The tourney is over and I did not win, but I will be back to try it again.
Bass fishing's a love and you get Wired2Fish its under your skin you can't resist
As I go to bed with Bass in my head I just have to say.
Good Fishing to All and to All a good night
Another Jingle Bells lover Jeremy Phan from Wake Forest, North Carolina writes:
Driving through the snow,
One cold December day,
On the way to BassPro,
To buy a few new Spro…
Looking to score some bling,
To help my lines get tight,
What fun it is to curse and sing,
While the fish puts up a fight!
Oh, garlic smells, line don’t fail,
Fishing all day long,
What fun it is to relax all day
In my yellow Stratos sleigh!
Hey!
We love them and keep them coming!
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FLW Outdoors has announced an optional payout for the 2010 FLW Series offering anglers the chance to dramatically increase their tournament payback.
The optional payout is in addition to the regular FLW Series prizes and is awarded only to anglers who choose to participate. The optional payout would offer an additional $21,000 to the winning pro and an additional $4,500 to the winning co-angler, based on 150 pros and 150 co-anglers participating and would pay through 50th place, with 100 percent payback. The fee for participation in the optional payout is $1,000 for pros and $150 for co-anglers and payment must be made the Friday prior to each respective tournament.
“FLW Outdoors continues to look for ways to offer tournament anglers the largest payouts in the sport even with the current economic conditions,” said Charlie Evans, President and CEO of FLW Outdoors. “The optional payout will provide competitors the opportunity to significantly increase their winnings and reward them for their efforts while competing at the highest level.”
Pro entry fees will be $2,000 per tournament and co-angler entry-fees will be $350. Deposits for each event will be $500 for pros and $100 for co-anglers.
Anglers will compete for top awards of $50,000 in the pro division and a Ranger Boat in the co-angler division, with awards of $5,000 and $400, respectively, extending through 50th place. The top 10 pros and top 10 co-anglers at the end of the season will qualify for the 2011 Forrest Wood Cup. For complete payback tables, visit FLWOutdoors.com.
Registrations are currently being accepted online at FLWOutdoors.com or by calling (270) 252-1000. Phones are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time. For additional information, visit FLWOutdoors.com.
The 2010 FLW Series schedule is below.
FLW Series Eastern Division
Date Fishery Location
Jan. 27-30 Lake Okeechobee Okeechobee, Fla.
March 10-13 Lake Eufaula Eufaula, Ala.
Aug. 25-28 Lake Champlain Plattsburgh, N.Y.
Sept. 15-18 Lake Chickamauga Chattanooga, Tenn.
National Guard FLW Series Western Division
Date Fishery Location
Jan. 13-16 Lake Shasta Shasta Lake, Calif.
May 5-8 Lake Mead Las Vegas, Nev.
June 9-12 California Delta Stockton, Calif.
Sept. 22-25 Lake Roosevelt Payson, Ariz.
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Today on Unplugged Terry Brown gives his observations on what makes Strike King Lure Company arguably the best fishing team in the business. To read click here.
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Building the best angler team in fishing is not easy. Manufacturers know that pro anglers can indeed help the bottom line and give their products credibility. Putting together a "who's who" team from the angling community also takes money and those that do it best find ways of utilizing their pro staffs effectively and thoroughly. For years, Strike King Lure Company has been the company that others emulate and their success is based on two ingredients. Great pro staff combined with great cutting edge products.
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Ninety eight collegiate anglers representing twenty four schools from seven states met at Sam Rayburn Reservoir in east Texas on December 18-19 to decide the Stephen F Austin State University (SFA) Bucketmouth Bass Tournament. The event kicked off the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series, which will be featured on the Versus network beginning in August of 2010. The tournament was hosted by the SFA Bass Team and sanctioned by the Association of Collegiate Anglers.
With finals behind them and Christmas less than a week away, these dedicated student anglers were anxious to put their bass fishing skills to the test on this legendary tournament lake. Big Sam proved to be extremely stingy however, giving up only two 5-bass limits each day while thirteen teams failed to weigh a single bass.
Most teams reported that bites were hard to come by during the practice period leading up to the event while others had lots of success, locating quality bass that seemingly vanished during competition. As always this time of year on Sam Rayburn, the primary pattern involved targeting bass positioned in submerged hydrilla with a variety of crankbaits.
With Cody Salzman and Logan Bliss of the University of Wisconsin-Steven's Point occupying the hot seat on the final day with a total weight of 24.16 pounds, day one leaders Danny Iles and Matt Morrison of Lamar University came to the scales needing 10.35 pounds to win. When the dust settled, the scales read 9.86 pounds, making Salzman and Bliss the winners by less than a half pound!
Having never seen the lake before, the team from Wisconsin went the conventional route during practice and covered lots of water with red Rat-L-Traps but failed to get that pattern going. During competition they switched to deep diving, shad colored crankbaits and managed to boat a total of 7 bass over two days anchored by an 8.78 pound beauty that was more than big enough to earn big bass honors. Reminiscing about the big bass, Bliss said "It felt like I'd hooked a log - then it took drag. It made a couple of hard runs so I free spooled it and we finally landed it." On day one, Cody and Logan forgot to load the net and subsequently lost a 3 pounder at the side of the boat that they feared might cost them the win since they only weighed 4 bass that day. The team thanked their school for providing money to help with travel expenses, their family for their support and the SFA bass team.
In addition to taking the 1st place prize money home to Wisconsin, Salzman and Bliss won all four contingency awards consisting of Abu Garcia Big Bass, Berkley Big Bag, Costa Big Bass and Cabela's Angler Cash. When asked if it was worth the 23 hour drive to compete in the event, they replied "We'd do it a million times over. Winning this event is an awesome feeling that words can't describe. "
Danny Iles and Matt Morrison of Lamar University discovered a strong Rat-L-Trap bite during practice that fizzled during the tournament. After switching to a Sebile Flat Shad and Stanley spinnerbait, the team targeted both the inside and outside edge of submerged hydrilla. There was no specific pattern so they covered an enormous amount of water. "During practice we eliminated water and during the tournament we eliminated even more," said Iles. The second place prize money helped ease the pain of coming up just short of winning.
Kyle Bates and Cody Collins representing Texas A&M sat in third place after day one with 11.29 pounds. After backing that effort up with only one bass weighing 2.16 pounds, they hung on to finish right where they started the day in 3rd place.
After a tough practice period that yielded only 2 bass, Bates and Collins got off to a fast start on day one, catching four keepers in 30 minutes. Their key area was a large flat that featured a deep drain and submerged hydrilla. The bass were positioned in 4-6 feet of water where the drain bottlenecked. The strong north wind that blew on the final day prevented them from fishing their key area again. The team was proud to represent A&M with a strong finish at this event following a big win by their teammates at the FLW regional held in Louisiana a few weeks prior.
Rounding out the top 10 was:
4th Stephen F Austin Zach Brown & Bryan Swann
5th Texas State Univ. Joey Reich & Elliott Gundelach
6th Univ. of Texas - Tyler Paul Daniel & Allen Brown
7th Tarleton State Univ. Seth Peugh & Cody Pratka
8th Mississippi State Univ. Josh Cameron & Taylor Odom
9th Tarleton State Univ. Tanner Morgan & Chris Boswell
The team from Wisconsin wasn't the only one to travel a great distance to compete in this event. Daniel Day and Lee Blakeman drove 16 hours from the University of Louisville. According to Daniel "It really wasn't that bad of a drive and it's always worth it to get to go bass fishing".
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We continue to get more great jingles and poems from the Wired2Fish readers and wanted to pass them along. Hope you get a chuckle out of them. Merry Christmas to all and keep them coming!!
Brad Patterson of Little Rock, Arkansas writes:
Please add my name
Not entering would be a shame
Cause let’s keep it real
Winning this would be one heck of a deal!
I could use every lure
This I know for sure
With the tips from this site
The fish I would catch would be a delight!
As the holidays draw near
I express all great cheer
For Wired 2 Fish fans everywhere are blessed
Cause this site is the best!
Rich Conlon of Pittsburgh added one for Terry:
There once was an angler named Terry,
Who’s back, not his head, was so hairy,
He only caught trash, and nary a bass,
Cause his face, to the fish, was so scary!
Another one for Terry from Mike Langenfeld of New York, NY
<sung to the tune of Jingle Bells>
Jingle Bells Jingle Bells
Jingle all the way,
Oh what fun
it would be,
To win tackle potluck todaaaaay
Jingle Bells, Terry’s breath smells,
I can tell by the look on Skeet’s face;
I need this gear, Christmas is here,
And my Bass Pro card is maxed…
From Walter Oppelt of Frankfort, IN:
A christmas spirit to be had by all
alas just one will win the draw,
but this I say,please understand,
the # 1 fishing site,
each day we scan.
Paul Huzyak of Salem, OH writes:
Please enter me into the potluck contest,
and to you, a merry Christmas I wish,
with happy holidays covered in snow.
Good friends at Wired2fish,
my name and address are below
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In the category "to know them you have to throw them" Jimmy Milsaps and Rich Lowitzki know shaky heads. The Yankee/Reb combo have made a lving throwing the shaky head and after throwing numerous others felt they had a way to make them better. Both are noted FLW Tour pros with the shaky head and both have made it to the FLW Championship. Lowitzki is in the machine business and Milsaps knows how to sell so they teamed up and came up with JimRic Enterprises. The Weedless Wonder Shaky Head was birthed out of the desire to not only have a head that would catch fish but also have one that wouldn't get hung up as much. Those in the know know that throwing a shaky head can mean getting hung up and losing a few. The Weedless Wonder eliminates that to a large extent.
The Weedless Wonder is a ball shaped head with the line tie concealed in the bait. The line tie is below the hook point so hook ups are clean and quick. That is part of the "Weedless" secret. The hook shank sits on the bottom of head not in the center as most others are positioned. This too keeps the jig in contact with the bottom and makes the jig drag cleaner. Another thing we like is the keeper is a screw in style and because of its positioning allows the shaky worm to be rigged straight every time.
The Weedless Wonder comes in 3 colors, black, brown and green pumpkin and comes in 1/8, 3/16, 1/4 and 5/16 sizes. They come 3 in a package and retail for $3.99. There are two styles of the Weedless Wonder. One that is the original that uses a Gamakatsu hook and an extended model that comes with a Mustad hook. The have 3 hook sizes including 3/0, 4/0 and 5/0.
JimRic is about to launch a new Weedless Wonder Jig and a wacky rig weighted hook as well.
You can learn more or purchase the Weedless Wonder by going to JimRicEnterprises.com or by calling 770-861-3276.
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Marabou is “nature’s fish catcher.” It’s been that way for over a century, since fly-tiers first recognized the lively “pulsing” and “breathing” qualities of these choice feathers. Meanwhile, since the dawn of the freshwater fishing revolution, Northland Fishing Tackle has been making the world’s best jigs—they’re “man’s fish catcher,” you might say. It was only “natural” then, for marabou and Northland to come together, creating the most dynamic multi-species finesse lure on the planet…the BUG-A-BOO™ JIG!
Hand-crafted by the jig-tying experts at Northland, all BUG-A-BOO™ JIGS take shape around a premium Mustad® Ultra-Point™ hook and a rockin’ mushroom-shaped head. Individual super-fine NaturesEdge™ grade AA marabou feathers are placed meticulously around the jig shank to produce a subtle pulsating, breathing, undulating action that never rests. Just the slightest movement activates the BUG-A-BOO™ JIG’s fibers, delivering the fish-catching message: It’s alive!
“If there’s a fish that needs catching, the BUG-A-BOO™JIG is what I’m throwing,” says TEAM NORTHLAND™ Pro Tony Roach. “Just like live bait, this jig is always working for me down below—its premium feathers never stop quivering and quaking. Its secret is movement within movement as well as living and breathing even at rest. That’s a powerful trigger. Doesn’t matter if it’s a big crappie, perch, walleye, bass or trout, this lively little jig is the answer. To fish, it’s part leech, part larvae, and 100% alive.”
The tantalizing new BUG-A-BOO™ JIGS feature natural colored heads and eleven fish-friendly marabou patterns in four select sizes—1/32, 1/16, 1/8 & 1/4-ounce. These lively looking jigs tease, tickle and bug ‘em to bite!
For more information and a 2010 catalog, contact Northland Fishing Tackle® Inc., 1001 Naylor Drive SE, Bemidji, MN 56601. Phone is (218) 751-6723 or email them at norfish@northlandtackle.com. Website is www.northlandtackle.com. |
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Noel Spann of La Grange Texas liked Chris Myers poem about the Wired2Fish Potluck but decided he needed one of his own.
Below is his diddy.
I've won twice
And yes they were sweet
But to win the "Holiday Potluck"
That would be a great "three-pete"!!!
Thanks Noel!
Walter Oppelt of Frankfort, Indiana sent us this one!
A christmas sprit to be had by all,
alas just one will win the draw,
but this I say,please understand,
the # 1 fishing site,
each day we scan.
Best wishes to all, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Thanks Walter!
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Chris Meyer of Hendersonville, Tennessee took us up on our request and wrote a poem about our latest "Potluck Contest". Thanks Chris, we loved it!
Here it is:
I never win
And I never protest
Therefore,
I want to be part of the "Holiday Potluck" contest
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The Spro BBZ Contest is over and thanks to everyone that participated. The Spro line-up of swimbaits not only look great but the action of these jewels catch bass as well. The new BBZ-1 Jr will be available in stores very soon but two lucky winners will have them before you can buy them because they entered the contest. They are on the way!
The winners are:
Shane Dorrough
Dallas, GA
Mike Duvall
Penryn,Ca
Congrats guys and don't forget to enter the Wired2Fish "Potluck" Contest currently running.
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Doug Cox's Daily Crank does a feature from the front deck of the Lucky Craft pro's boats. In this episode West Coast angler Brent Ehrler talks about a real bad day on the water. To watch click here.
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 Jeffreys photo
Wired2Fish talked to Boyd Duckett at Duckett Fishing regarding the launch of their new fishing rods in 2010. He mentioned that they will have 19 models of their new rods available at launch. "We want to do this right and feel we have to have the actions that anglers will want in the beginning" said Duckett. "They will be priced effectively and we look to launch them and have them for sale at the Bassmaster Classic" added Duckett. The rods will be priced from $139 to $159 based on model.
Duckett will be fishing the Classic again this year at Lay Lake and looks to be a favorite. Remember, he won the Classic there when BASS had it on Lay in 2007. His winning weight was 48-10.
We recently had Duckett on Wired Radio with Terry Brown talking about the new company and his products. To listen to that program click here. |
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Lock-n-Haul ® standard on Skeeter Boats....
Innovative new style transom saver to ship with new boats in 2010
It is common knowledge that Skeeter Boats which was established in 1948 was the original bass
boat builder. Today Skeeter is owned by the Yamaha Corporation, and is still built in Kilgore, Texas while remaining one
of the best boats available anywhere, period.
“It is our great pleasure to announce that Skeeter will be shipping the innovative Lock-n-Haul® advanced transom saver
with their new boats in 2010”, says Jim Smith, owner of Lock-n-Haul®.
“We are always looking for new and innovative accessories here at Skeeter, and we always want to upgrade our product
with user friendly features whenever possible. When the Skeeter engineers told me the new Lock-n-Haul® transom saver
was a good deal, I was definitely on board with that”, says Ben Jarrett, National Sales and Marketing Manager of Skeeter
Products, Inc.
Skeeter recently backed up their innovation policy by introducing the new FX boat series
which has been specifically designed to take advantage of Yamahas’ new “Game-Changer”
4-stroke V MAX ® SHO™ outboard motor, which is faster and lighter than 2-stroke motors of
the same size, while complying with the latest and strictest EPA guidelines to date for
emissions control.
The Lock-n-Haul® advanced transom saver is the perfect new-tech complement accessory
for the new year at Skeeter, and we are very pleased that they have chosen us and see our
device as an upgrade to their already impressive product line of fresh and salt-water
boats”, says Smith.
The patent pending Lock-n-Haul® advanced transom saver, will work on literally any boat,
and will adjust to fit most outboard motor brands, models and sizes. It is the only universal
device available that will completely stabilize the outboard motor in travel position, while
effectively making the motor act like it is one piece with the boat that it is attached to. The innovative four-point inline load
design premises that the absence of movement from the outboard motor minimizes the effects of kinetic energy, inertia
and gravity impact on the boats rigging and transom.
“We are very happy that Skeeter recognizes the benefits of the Lock-n-Haul®
advanced transom saver, and has made it their choice for inclusion with their
new boat sales in 2010”, says Smith, who is also the inventor and manufacturer
of the device.
The Lock-n-Haul® advanced transom saver is in wide use over the entire North
American continent including Canada and Mexico. The Weatherford, Texas
based company has enjoyed great success in 2009, and expects continued
growth in the coming years.
For more information about the Lock-n-Haul®, please visit www.lock-n-haul.com.
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The people behind Lazer TroKar know engineering and design. They know what materials work best and they know how to build a team. With anglers like Skeet Reese, Gerald Swindle, Shaw Grigsby and Brent Chapman they have perennial winners who know the little things that make a difference. They also know how build the best hooks and they know how to listen too!
This year at ICAST the buzz around this new technology was amazing. We stood 3 deep in people wanting to get a glance of this surgical precision instrument that anglers had been talking about for only a few days. Three sided hook points that are akin to a surgeons needle but tough as iron had anglers and buyers running for a spot in the booth. TroKar announced several models but also discussed that more were in the works and constant re-engineering would be done to keep them at the top of their game.
They were true to their word and just announced a new redesigned and re-engineered barb/point on their TK130 Flippin Hook. Not only does it penetrate better but the holding power is awesome too. This new hook is built to penetrate and to last. Also, we like the low profile barb on the inner bend of the hook both on the hook point and the shank plus a special plastic keeper below the line tie keeps both fish and baits in place.
The TK130 comes in a 4/0, 5/0 and 6/0 size and comes in black chrome.
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Berkley is getting set to launch their new "Classic" baits right after the first of the year. It looks like they will be introducing some new PowerBait products that should tickle anglers fancies for 2010.
The first bait is a small 3-inch Crazy Legs Chigger Craw. Made from PowerBait,
it is a miniature version of the bait we introduced for last year's Classic and Skeet used it to his advantage. Sounds like a great jig trailer and one that can be used when the bite is super tough.
The second bait is the 3- and 4-inch Minnow, but made from PowerBait instead of Gulp!. Berkley will also be adding some other "mid-year" iproducts and they will relate to walleye, trout and panfish.
Stay tuned to Wired2Fish for contests and more information on these new offerings from Berkley.
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North Carolina Elite Series pro Dave Wolak just signed a two-year deal with Pinnacle to endorse both rods and reels in 2010. Pinnacle will be bring some new premier quality reels and super light tough rods that are priced right. They will be brought to the market sometime right after ICAST. "I am excited about this opportunity. The prototypes are excellent and we will have reels for both high speed and cranking applications, 7.1 to 1 and 5.0 to 1. Having the opportunity to be part of a prototyping program is critical to making good products for anglers and makes them easy to promote. The reels are high quality and the rods are super light, yet durable. I have put them to the test with swimbaits and "even" stripers and they work very well. Putting this big process together makes it all work."
Marc Malkin, Director of Marketing and Communications, said "We are all about making a premier product that is priced right and adding Dave, Grant Goldbeck, Paul Elias and Britt Myers will aid us in our efforts to make these rods and reels the best. We want to have the best at a price that anglers can afford. I think the public will be excited about what Pinnacle will be bringing to market."
"These are application-specific, tournament-grade products that have been designed utilizing extensive suggestions/feedback from accomplished BASS/FLW touring pros. The rods are in the final design stages, and the reels are in development as we speak. While this gear will feature state-of-the-art design, top-quality construction and the finest components/materials available – unlike our competition’s offerings – the price will be within reach of the average angler. The reels – baitcasting and spinning -- will be super smooth and durable, offering exceptional castability, drag performance and fish-fighting power. The custom-grade rods – each model tailor-made for its intended application – feature a proprietary construction process that makes them feather-light yet amazingly strong" said Malkin.
Look for more news about Pinnacle in the upcoming months.
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Today on the Next Generation Tackle Box Wired Contributor Alan Clemons takes a look at some of the new Strike King products for 2010 that would be perfect for any angler on your Christmas list. To read his take on these great new Strike King baits click here. |
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As the cold winter weather descends on most of the country anglers start to get cabin fever and look for ways to get their bass fishing fix that may or may not include actually fishing. Winter is a great time to take care of the little things that will make spring even better.
There are several things we do each winter that we thought we might pass along to help Wired readers get a leg up on springtime and have all of their gear in top notch condition when the weather breaks.
Reel Maintenance
Winter is a great time to take care of your reels. There are several great reel cleaning and maintenance kits out there but we prefer the Ardent Reel Kleen Cleaning Kit. It has everything you need to get your favorite reel back in "like new" condition including Reel Butter Oil and Grease, Reel Clean, a multi-tool screwdriver, cleaning swabs, brush, and a silicone treated towel. It also gives directions so even a novice can service their own reels.
Reel care includes both the outside and inside of the reel. We typically start on the inside where gears and springs need lubrication. We include all moveable parts and anglers should know that some parts need grease and others oil so follow manufactures recommendations there. After the reel is lubed we work very hard on the outside of the reel as well. This is a good time to strip old line down to a backing that will be ready for new line in the spring. Loosen the drag on the reel too. We coat the backing with Line and Lure Conditioner and its ready to go.
Inventory Time
If you are like most of the anglers in the country you probably have more tackle than you can use in a lifetime. Winter is a great time to get it organized. We have a couple ways of doing that. We use pegboard like Alligator Board to hang the most used baits. Five to six packages on a peg and then put the remainder into plastic tubs. Each tub is labeled by bait, company and type and its important to replenish baits taken off the the pegs each time. We also count each color and type and use the computer to keep track of what we have and what we need. This may seem like a ton of work but once through it it enables the angler to buy only what they need and not buy on a whim.
Inventory includes everything. Plastic baits, hard baits, hooks, line, terminal tackle and boxes. We keep a ready supply of Plano 3700 boxes on hand to build travel boxes by location for the spring. Even though we have bags the best access comes out of a box and we use the boat like a giant tackle box. Extra bags are stored in tackle bags labeled for each product. We rig a box of Senko's and Skinny Dippers in one box, Traps and Shad Raps in another and jigs and trailers in another. We also include one box for 3 or 4 types of spinnerbaits and one box for small medium diver crankbaits. Those three boxes can be a placed in a single tackle bag with a hook and terminal tackle box and you are ready to go.
Its also important to inventory your tools this time of year as well. Scissors, pliers, clippers and a small pocket knife are critical items in that bag.
One trick we have also used is a small deck box with a few of each of the baits you will use for the day. Its an easy way to have everything at your finger tips and not have to dig into a compartment when you are in a hurry. This box works well velcroed on the bottom side of the box with latch. It won's slide and attaches temporarily to the carpet. Note: Make sure you move the box to the floor of the boat when running!
Working on baits
Winter time is not only a great time to inventory but also is a great time to work on individual baits. We like to go over each one, change out hooks if needed and with a good Luhr Jenson 4.5 inch file add a point if one is needed. A general rule however is, if a hook is bent or a hook point is turned....Replace the hook. We use different VMC, Mustad and Gamakatsu hooks based on application for replacements and they can be purchased in bulk.
Spinnerbaits can also be tweaked in the winter. New skirts may be needed so replace them. If the skirt is held on with a rubber ring use a light wire like that used for hanging pictures and hand tie the skirt. Nothing is more aggrevating than pulling out a spinnerbait and having the skirt fall apart. Blades can be polished now too. We use a wadding material for chrome called Nevr Dull and it can make an old blade look like new again. It protects and cleans. A small soft buffing rag should be used after the wadding to bring luster back to the blades.
Rod Care
Each winter we wipe down every rod. We use a non-abrasive soap on the cork and a protectant like Bow to Stern on the rods. Check each guide with a cotton Q-tip for abrasions and replace bad guides. The reel seat should also be given a good wiping and use BTS there as well. BTS is environmentally safe and does not leave a residue.
Its good to loosen the drag on reels kept on rods and take off all baits. Keeping a rod in a bent condition over the winter is not recommended.
Store loose rods in a 5 gallon bucket butt first or purchase a rod rack. We always keep the wrapping the rod came in for winter storage. Simply slide the opened wrapper over the rod and it will stay dust free.
By doing the things mentioned above you will find that they work better in the spring and it also makes the winter go faster. Spring is just around the corner!
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Aspiring pro Blake Shifflett sent us this photo of a giant largemouth that he caught cold water froggin with a Lake Fork Trophy Tackle Frog on Coleto Creek Reservoir. Nice fish Blake and we love the technique! To see all the great Lake Fork Trophy Lures Frogs
click here.
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There is a great article by Aaron Martens on Horsey Head Fishing on Bass Tackle Depot that will help you put more fish in the boat when fishing gets super tough. Its not just for small fish. To read it click here.
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Alba, Texas angler Rick Carter caught this double digit toad at Toledo Bend recently on a Lake Fork Trophy Tackle Live Magic Shad. Nice fish Rick!
To learn more about the LFT Live Magic Shad click here.
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The mission statement behind the ArmyBassAnglers (ABA) is "SUPPORT. DEFEND. FISH." and Lake Fork Trophy Lures, one of the nation's leading tackle manufacturers, announces its "support" of ArmyBassAnglers through a multi-year sponsorship as the Official Weight, Line and Soft Plastics Sponsor.
"Since the founding of ABA in 2006, our sponsors like Lake Fork Trophy Lures have raised both awareness and funds for Returning Heroes Home, a foundation that supports a state-of-the-art medical recovery facility at Fort Sam Houston's Brooke Army Medical Center," says MAJ Cody Roberson of ABA.
"As a soldier, having the right weapons is critical, and LFT Lures soft plastic lures, tungsten weights and new Parallelium fishing lines are our weapons of choice while on the water," says Roberson.
"The leadership and passion of ABA speaks loudly, and group's support of our nation's real heroes who return home from their missions needs to be applauded," says LFT Lures CEO, Ronnie Parker, whose father, C.W. Parker was awarded a Purple Heart for service in the Army in World War II.
According to Shawn Preator, COO of Lake Fork Trophy Lures, the company actively plans to cross promote its relationship with ABA through trade shows, tournaments and the Internet. The company currently offers discounts to military personnel, supports fishing days for returning military, and helps to sponsor military fishing events each year.
"We hope to increase the trial and education of our products through grassroots activities, and we believe that ABA will be helpful in providing our company with strong brand awareness and product credibility," says Preator. "We are proud to support the group's efforts, and are honored to work with a group of anglers who are as passionate about fishing, as they are about supporting and defending our freedoms," adds Preator.
ABA consists of 12 pro staff anglers, all of whom are active duty or retired U.S. military. The group currently fishes the Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail and Bass Champs, and gained national prominence as the Ceremonial Launch Boats for the 2009 Bassmasters Classic.
Returning Heroes Home, a 12,000 square-foot rehabilitation center, is funded solely by private donations and provides space for wounded soldiers undergoing treatment in San Antonio, allowing them to spend private time with their friends and families when they are not actively participating in rehabilitative treatment. In addition to supporting Returning Heroes Home, ArmyBassAnglers is dedicated to taking soldiers fishing through its Fishing For Freedom bass tournaments.
"We don't consider ourselves professional fishermen, but professional soldiers who just happen to be really good, avid anglers with a far more important mission," says Roberson.
For more information about Returning Heroes Home or Fishing for Freedom, make a contribution, view tournament schedule or subscribe to the ABA e-newsletter, visit www.armybassanglers.com. Lake Fork Trophy Lures may be found at retailers nationwide, including Bass Pro Shops, Gander Mountain, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Cabela's, and Sportsman's Warehouse among others.
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Over the last few years we have seen several innovations in the fishing and boating market that has put safety in the forefront. Inflatable life jackets, GPS Beacon Systems, remote access ladders that allow anglers to regain entry into the boat and now a "never forget" drain plug system that works from inside the boat. All are designed to save lives.
Ever forget to put in your drain plug? No worries. Gene Gray, owner of Bass Boat Solutions, has the problem rectified. Bass Boat Solutions has a drain plug solution that allows you to put your drain plug in the boat from the inside the boat, even on the water. Fits on most models of bass boats with only two screws. It will work equally well on aluminum and fiberglass boats.
"I believe this will save lives and for sure a lot of embarrassment as well. Anglers always forget to put the drain plug in their boats and the Bass Boat Solutions Drain Plug System takes the worry out of the equation altogether" said Gray.
Its simple to install and operate.
Easy to read installations instructions come with every unit.
A cable system with an attached turn knob and drain plug system is run to a department that is easily accessible. The use of the current drain hole fits most models so minimal drilling is required.
To operate the DPS from inside the boat simply pull knob attached via cable to the plug. Pulling it will seat the drain plug into the housing then turn knob three turns counter clockwise. The fleixible stainless steel cable seats the plug and turning in tightens the plug in place. The day is saved and its time to go fishing. To check out the video on this product click here.
The Bass Boat Solutions Drain Plug System retails for $17.99 and can be purchased by clicking here.
Gene also has a new prototype unit that will be hitting the market very soon that uses a Flowright Open and Close lever so the boat operator can open or close the plug at the console. Its called a Remote DPS and is a complete system. Stainless Steel cable lengths to 17 feet will be available at launch. It too is easy to install and the appearance is the same as current baffle lever installed in today's bass boats livewell systems.
This is one slick system and don't be surprised to see it on premium boats in the near future. To learn more click here. |
 BASS photo
Wired2Fish and Tackle Warehouse pro Jared Lintner is introducing two new technique specific rods he designed for Powell. To watch a Tackle Warehouse exclusive on these rods click here. |
LockerBlogger announced that the Professional Anglers Association (PAA), the leading professional bass fishing organization, has selected LockerBlogger as its official social platform to connect its anglers and their fans. Built by sports lovers for sports lovers, LockerBlogger integrates blogging and social features to give fans exclusive inside access to their favorite athletes and lets pro and amateur athletes build their online persona and grow their community.
“As an athlete I’m always looking for new ways to connect with fans,” said professional angler Chad Morgenthaler. “With LockerBlogger I’m able to connect with sports fans across the nation and provide a glimpse into the daily life of a professional angler, as well as the highs and lows of competitive bass fishing. LockerBlogger is definitely a great catch!”
On LockerBlogger, Professional Anglers Association members can create their own personal “lockers” — or pages where they can blog, post videos and photos, and talk directly to their fans. Additionally, the PAA hosts its own official page on LockerBlogger, where it posts updates and video highlights from competitions across the country, tips and interviews with anglers, information on upcoming tournaments, and more.
“The Professional Anglers Association is made up of the nation’s top professional anglers and we are excited to offer our PAA membership this unique opportunity for added exposure,” said Danny Blandford, Business Development Manager of the Professional Anglers Association. “We expect LockerBlogger to be a leader in 'real-time' sports information, and think our fans will love this added coverage.”
Morgenthaler is already actively participating on LockerBlogger, and the PAA expects many more anglers to follow suit and come on board in early 2010. “Both our organization and anglers will be adding content to our lockers during the winter, making Locker Blogger a great stop for fishing fans during the 2010 Tournament Season,” added Blandford.
The PAA tournament season will run from June through October, with the season kicking off June 3-5, 2010 at the Corporate Cup and PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series.
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Today on Unplugged Wired contributor Alan Clemons talks to Elite Series Pro Matt Herren about his practice for the upcoming Bassmaster Classic. To read click here.
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You have a major championship coming up more than two months from now, the seasons will begin changing by then and your last practice day on the water was Sunday.
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When thinking about the angler for Christmas most think about rods, reels and lures and for sure they are great gifts. Many times however the best gift for anglers are things that they may need but may not buy for themselves. If you are looking for reasonably priced items that they will love but also will keep them warm on a late winter or early spring day we think we have found a couple neat options.
Gill North America makes some absolutely spectacular rain and foul weather gear. They also make some of the best gloves for keeping your hands warm in bad conditions. Their new Pro Gloves that just hit the market handle all the variables. Good grip, open fingers for working on details and they wear like iron. Neoprene closures secure them to your wrist and they look awesome too. They retail for around $40 bucks and Gill has several other models to choose from as well. Click here to learn more or order.
The second item that is perfect for the hunter or the angler is the Gator Grip Wrist Gator, We have used them and they do exactly what they say they do. They keep the blood flowing in the forearm and wrist and keep your hands warm as well. A pair of Wrist Gators can be used over and over and come with two hand warmers in the package. They retail for $17.50 and can be purchased by clicking here.
Get your favorite angler or hunter a great pair of Gill Pro Gloves and Gator Grip Wrist Gators. They will love them.
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Anglers who have Direct TV know that Versus/Comcast and Direct TV are at a stalemate regarding airing Versus programming via Direct TV. That has caused many die hard anglers to look for other options to watch their favorite hunting and fishing shows. Dish TV customers do have Versus.
FLW Outdoors has stepped up to the plate and is offering On-Demand Video on their websites that allows anglers to watch FLW programming in the interim. You can watch them when you want to versus, pardon the pun, missing them or hoping that the two sides will come together.
To watch FLW Outdoors recent programs click here. There is more than one way to skin a cat!
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The Paralyzed Veterans of America Bass Tour has announced its 2010 Schedule and it looks to be a good one. The lid lifter will take place March 26-28 will be on Clarks Hill, April 16-18 will be on the Harris Chain in Florida, the third stop will take place on Rend Lake in Southern Illinois May 21-23, followed by a trip to Texas and Lake Ray Hubbard June 11-13. The next stop for the PVA will then move to the Potomac River July 23-25 and will conclude on Ft. Gibson Lake September 24-26.
To learn more about the PVA Tour and how to participate click here. |
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Rapala and Yamamoto pro Bernie Schultz has a great article in the Bassdozer's Inside Line and Yamamoto's EZine where he re-caps his year on the Elite Series. He highlights the high points and failures in an honest and straight forward approach. This is a good read for all tournament anglers and gives a first hand account of each tournament from his perspective. To read this article click here. |
Trigger X™ has created a pheromone that no fish can refuse with the new line of Aggression Formula soft baits, featuring Ultrabite® Aggression Pheromones™.
"The new line of Trigger X features a new pheromone blend," explains Mark Fisher, Rapala director of field promotions. "The new Aggression Formula is a blend of "fear" and "aggression" pheromones designed to trigger bites from actively feeding fish."
The fear pheromones mimic those released from schools of frightened baitfish. Predator fish have evolved to respond to these pheromones and associate them with a food source. The aggression pheromones mimic those from other predator fish and are associated as competition to the predator fish, which makes predators want to feed.
"With the new Trigger X Aggression, anglers are armed with soft baits to turn inactive fish on and make actively feeding fish eat more - it's the best of both worlds," says Fisher.
Improved body shapes have been meticulously fine-tuned and the precise bio-salt infused formula matches the baits density to body shape for maximum action. The new line of Trigger X also features Phthalate-free composition that eliminates that "plastic" smell found in other soft baits.
Trigger X Aggression soft baits are designed to mimic natural forage shapes. They feature a significant ridge structure that creates a softer "lifelike" feel while increasing lure surface area and allowing increased pheromone distribution.
The new line of Trigger X Aggression is available in easy to handle black sealed bags and they come moist with the Ultrabite Aggression Formula so anglers don't worry about anything spilling out.
Trigger The Bite. www.triggerx.com.
Suggested retail price: $4.99.
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The 2010 Southern Collegiate Bass Fishing Series (SCBFS) hosted by Auburn University will get underway on January 29-30 at Pickwick Lake, AL. The series has gained national recognition and contributed greatly to the explosive growth of collegiate bass fishing. Over 110 collegiate anglers representing more than 20 universities across the southeastern United States are expected to compete on lakes throughout northern Alabama to decide the 2010 SCBFS title and determine the universities that will be represented at the 2010 SCBFS Championship.
The 2010 SCBFS Championship will be held at Wheeler Lake in Decatur, AL April 1 - 3. This championship event will be featured on the BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship television series airing on the Versus network in August of 2010.
2010 SCBFS Schedule
Qualifying Events:
January 29-30 Pickwick Lake
February 12-13 Lake Guntersville
March 18-19 Neely Henry Lake
2010 SCBFS Championship:
April 1-3 Lake Wheeler
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Kota Kiriyama is on Wired TV today talking about the baits he used to catch a 5 pound average of smallmouth on the Great Lakes. One of them is the Jackall Super Pintail. They are now avaiable and you can learn more by clicking here. |
While the name of the show has changed several times over the past four decades, Al Lindner is still sporting his trademark smile and beard, and his desire to educate anglers on how to catch fish remains a constant.
In 1970, three years after returning from Viet Nam, a 25-year-old Al Lindner first appeared on his own television show sharing his love and passion for the sport of fishing. The show was filmed and directed by his brother Ron Lindner, and included his young 10-year-old nephew, James Lindner. This first family of fishing has continued to inspire anglers on-air every year without fail ever since.
In those early days, Al and Ron showcased truly groundbreaking fishing information via spectacular underwater action footage of lures and fish, while pioneering the capture of actual live strikes. Graphically, they explained the relationship between underwater structure and proper lure presentation and over the years introduced viewers to an array of new angling products like graphite rods, flashers, paper graphs, LCDs, underwater cameras, GPS, electronic mapping and side imaging. This highly educational format became their hallmark and continues today.
Not surprisingly, viewers and marketing partners continue to come back year after year. When the Lindners began their television career, their original sponsors included outdoor industry giants Rapala, MinnKota, Lund, and Mercury—these same folks are still on the air with the Lindners in 2010.
“Over the past 40 years, Al and Ron Lindner have contributed greatly to the growth of the Rapala brand and the Rapala business. The Lindners flat-out know how to catch fish, and when they catch them with our lures on television, their enthusiasm is SO GENUINE—IT'S CONTAGIOUS! Anglers trust and believe in these guys. At Rapala, we share their passion for the sport of fishing and really appreciate our friendship and partnership. It's been a good run together, but it's far from over -- we still have more great years ahead.”
Tom Mackin
President, Rapala USAIn order to keep the show fresh, the creative forces behind Lindner’s award winning programming, Al, Ron, Daniel and James Lindner work with their staff, expert anglers, friends and family alike. The synergy that is created keeps the show on the cutting edge of fishing.
At the end of every episode the Lindners share a short inspirational message that has touched many lives across the country evidenced by letters like the following: “…my wife and I were watching Lindner’s Fishing Edge tonight and were both moved by that famous last two minutes of the show. At a time when the economy has seemingly imploded, business is straining and it’s so easy to say the glass is half empty, it sure is
a timely reminder of where our attention should be fastened…in all of this—it’s a timely re-focus.” Jeff K., Wisconsin
The Lindners celebrate their 40th season on television when Lindner’s Angling Edge premiers Saturday January 2nd, 2010 at 10:00 AM Eastern time on Versus. Check local listings for Lindner’s Fishing Edge schedule.
From all of us here at Wired2Fish and Gemini Sport Marketing Congrats Al and Ron....thanks for bringing the secrets to catching more fish to the masses.
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Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown amicable Elite Series pro Dave Wolak reflects on the Bass University in Philly. Great group of anglers and open information sharing were big parts of this two day extensive training seminar. We are looking forward to attending the next one in January in Nashville. To listen click here. |
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PAA President and Elite Series pro John Crews loves his Bass Cat. He just put up a video walk-through of his new Puma FTD. To watch it click here. |
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There are some great lure painters out there now. Guys like Larry Chilton at Oscar's, Dwain Batey at Baitwerks, John Prior of Ace in the Hole, and Dale Sellers who was one of the originals are taking bait painting to a whole new level. Grant Koppers at Kopper's Live Target has some very special baits with unique lifelike paint schemes as well. They are all responsible for baits that are works of art.
North Carolina Lure Manufacturer Brian's B's has also help elevate the custom painting bar with its recent introduction of the Cricket Finish. The new paint pattern makes the most realistic patterns imaginable. Lifelike colors including crappie, bream, bass, trout, perch and shad that are double clear coated and hand signed. They are hotter than a two dollar pistol.
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He has the Classic Trophy, he has won Angler of the Year and now he has another trophy that will be proudly displayed in his office, Ike's beard. Skeet Reese won the bidding for Mike Iaconelli's beard via Ebay this past week to benefit Autism Awareness and a local school outside of Boston (New England Center for Children, www.necc.org) that specializes on kids with Autism. We spoke to him at ICAST and he said he wanted it badly. He put his money where his mouth was...that is for sure.
"This is a great cause (Autism Awareness) and I wanted to be a part of it. Its another momento of the Classic and because I am such a large fan of the sport and Mike too it has meaning. More than anything it gave me another piece of Mike" he said laughing. "I have a KVD, Rick Clunn and Denny Brauer jersey here and it will be cool to add this as well" said Reese. "This was fun for me and and this was a good way for me to get involved helping kids with Autism."
Eli Delany from Fishin with a Mission said "It wonderful that Skeet got involved and was the highest bidder. He is a great guy and I am very happy he is helping the kids. Having someone of his stature further ligitimizes the work that Mike and I are doing to raise awareness of Autism. We hope that Skeet joins Mike and other anglers to have the Fishin with a Mission decals on his boat and tow vehicle this year."
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Today's Next Generation Tackle Box reviews the new Plano CDS-X 3960 Tackle Organizer Box. Designed for crankbaits and dryness we use it for terminal tackle and it works perfectly. To read click here. |
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Stuck on what to buy the angler on your Christmas list? Check out the 12 Days of Savings on Tackle Warehouse for some killer savings and some great products. They are now on Day 4 and its "Four Casting Reels" from Diawa with discounts up to 47%. Day One was a Revo Supreme, Day Two was "Two Spinning Reels, Day Three was 3 Fishing Rods. Ho, Ho, Ho...!
To learn more about great buys for the die hard angler on your Christmas list from Tackle Warehouse click here. |
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Noted western writer Terry Battisti is covering the West Coast and its anglers for Wired2Fish.com. What better start to his West Coast perspective than to begin with West Coast Legend Gary Dobyns. He has won loads of cash, 40 boats, and still going strong. Today on Unplugged Battisti gives Wired readers a Western Perspective on Dobyns and what makes him tick. To read click here.
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Every region has its own hot sticks or anglers that are formidable opponents on the water. But there’s always that one angler that sets himself apart from the crowd, not only being dominant but winning more than anyone’s share of the pie. Most of these anglers, upon securing their dominance within their region, eventually bump it up a level and move on to higher leagues with dreams of becoming one of the sport’s elite – either on the Bassmaster Elites Trail or the FLW Tour.
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Gary Dollahon, longtime PR and Promotions guru and the head of Dollahon PR has a few suggestions for anglers to get their stockings stuffed. Making Christmas a fishing Christmas helps both the receiving angler and the industry prosper. Below is Gary's tips for great gifts just in time for Christmas:
Last minute Christmas gift shopping is always a challenge, but some people really struggle with what to get the active outdoor enthusiasts on their lists. Here are a few suggested items that run little risk of being duplicated under the tree this year or already owned. Also noteworthy, nothing here tops the $100 mark.
For any angler, consider the Bobby Garland Mo' Glo crappie baits and jigheads. The super-charged glow-in-the-dark colors are bright in daylight and glow in darkness. There are five glow colors in Garland's popular Baby Shad series, ranging from Pink Phantom to Ghastly Minnow. Mo' Glo jigheads are available in 1/24, 1/16, 1/8 and 3/16 ounce sizes. Cost per packs will range somewhere between $2.99 - $4.99, depending on models. Visit BobbyGarlandCustomBait.com.
Show your understanding of the bass fishing craze by giving the just-introduced Jewel Squirrel Head made for the shaky head fishing technique. Finesse fishing expert Jeff Kriet designed it to have a football-shaped noggin and a longer-than-normal hook shank with a unique bait holder. The three available sizes are 1/8, 3/16 and 1/4 ounce, and a package sells for around $6.99. Visit JewelBait.com.
The bass anglers in the household will also be thrilled to find a SEBILE Magic Swimmer fast-sinking model among their gifts. This version of the popular swimbait literally "swims on its own," thanks to a unique internal weighting system. Also, the Magic Swimmer Soft series is now available, too, providing a hand-painted soft plastic version that can be rigged weedless. The hardbait models sell for around $15.99 - $38.99 each, depending on size; the Soft models retail for about $15 per pack. Visit SebileUSA.com.
Then there's the Hound Dog Lure Retriever. It's not new to the marketplace, but it is something that any angler who likes to fish with crankbaits should have in the boat. The wire loop design hooks easily to a snagged fishing line and the hound dog-shaped lead body slides down quickly to the lure and becomes an effective "knocker" to free it from the obstacle. The Hound Dog sells for around $10. Visit KGEnterprise.com.
Make an even bigger impact on Christmas morn by mixing and matching the above fishing items and putting them in a Plano StowAway or tacklebox for wrapping. An appropriate StowAway model to hold several items runs about $6, and a good-sized tacklebox can be purchased for around $20 and up. Visit PlanoMolding.com.
Looking for something practical and different? Check out the Flip-Flop Grill. The portable charcoaler features a unique grill design that "sandwiches" the morsels in place and then can be "flipped" for perfect cooking throughout. It's ideal for fish, chicken, steak, brats and more. The Flip-Flop retails for around $90. Visit FlipFlopGrill.com.
And for the Christmas stockings ... there are a couple of must-haves. One is the Gene Larew Biffle Bug, a versatile soft plastic creature bait designed by pro angler Tommy Biffle. It's a stride bait, a glide bait and a jig trailer all in one. It can be fished right now and on through the peak seasons. A pack sells for about $6. Visit GeneLarewLures.com.
The other stocking stuffer, an item necessary because so many fish will be caught on all of the new lures, is FishHands. FishHands Wipes feature the fragrance-free Odor No More technology that neutralizes fish, shellfish and many other hard to remove and lingering organic odors from the skin. A compact container of 30 wipes retails for around $6. Visit DutchCreekBrands.com.
For many anglers, new and old, a new fishing license is also a good gift option. Fishing license years often begin in January for many states, so timing might be perfect for yours. Many states also offer "lifetime" fishing licenses, so check into that as well.
As a final thought, a hand-made gift certificate for a "Free Fishing Trip" can be a nice touch, too. Get as creative as you wish regarding the "when, where and who," so all can look forward to the memory-building outing.
For those who love the outdoors, there is no gift like the gift of fishing. Wrap it up today.
Merry Christmas!
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Today on Bass Tackle Depot there is a great article about looking at a pattern and finding the pattern(s) within it. To read it click here.
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Long time Wired reader Eric Breitkreutz attended the first Bass University in Philly over the weekend and thought it was exceptional. Below is his feedback:
Eric wrote:
Just got back from Bass University, had a great time and thought I'd pass along my experience.
I have attended several business seminars and conferences, but wasn't sure what to expect from Bass University. I was very impressed with the organization and production of the entire weekend, the entire program was very professional and well executed. Every speaker was not only an accomplished angler but an excellent communicator as well.
Dave Wolak's presentations were very informative and included footage from his instructional dvd's. It was great to have a pro instruct a session, use his video to highlight the lesson taught and then provide a more in depth look at the conditions of the day and what variables he used to make his decisions. It has been rumored that Gerald Swindle is quite the entertainer, he certainly did not disappoint! He could have easily been on stage at a comedy club, keeping the entire audience laughing throughout and providing some great insight and advice on the mental aspects of tournament fishing.
Pete Gluszek (Co-Founder of BU) captivated us all with his two way approach to smallmouth fishing, at one point on the second day, we demanded that the MC allow Pete to continue his presentation rather than go to break, (it was that informative and relevant).
Sunday's presenters included Dave Mansue, Dave won the Bassmaster Northern Open on the Chesapeake Bay last April. He broke down the winning strategy and gave an incredible presentation on tidal water fishing. I have not fished for bass in a tidal system, so this was of great interest to me. I really thought that the speakers and structure BU used was very effective, by incorporating local information as well as general knowledge the content was impactful to all the attendees.
Later on, Greg Hackney delved into his fishing strengths and how important it was that we know what our strengths are and capitalize on them. He also shared how he developed his game plan for the FLW Championship in Pittsburgh.
Of course, Mike Iaconelli gave high energy presentations and it was certainly interesting to learn that there is a actually a method to his madness. In the audience was a group of from a local youth fishing club, Rigging and Jigging, which included the NJ state youth champion and runner-up. Seeing Ike interact with this group really demonstrated what an ambassador to the sport he is.
Often at business seminars, the interaction at breaks can be the most informative part of the seminar. I can't say that the discussions at breaks were more educational than the presentations, but they were certainly interesting and informative. The attendees came from all levels of angling, some I met had been fishing less than a year, others had won their club championship the last four years in a row, everyone including the instructors shared techniques and information. In fact, that may have been the most impressive aspect of the weekend; the pros were very open about their techniques and strategies and I never felt like they were holding anything back.
Overall the weekend at BU was highly informative, entertaining and worth every penny. I would highly recommend attendance to anyone interested in becoming a better tournament angler, or for that matter a better bass angler.
Thanks Eric for your opinion on this first ever Bass University. Sound like this is a good one to attend!
The next Bass University is in Nashville January 23 and 24. Click here to sign up. |
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Anglers who consider themselves expert jig fishermen have favorite trailers. They don't just throw one type or size. Some are huge, some are are medium sizes and some are small but each have differences that make them perfect for each type of application. Sometime anglers want subtle, sometimes they want pressure waves and loud and yet other times they may want a slow fall. Damiki Craft has a very unique jig trailer called the Spoon Tail Miki that is the best of most worlds. It's cupped shaped legs mimic a crawfish in defense and feeding modes and its diirectionally ribbed body causes vibrations that attract the bass.
Those cupped tails causes pressure waves to travel in multiple directions allowing bass to key in on the jig and it allows the jig to fall slower. Each leg works independently when split. They are available in 2 1/2 and 3 inch models and come in a package of 6.
To learn more and take a look at Damiki's new website click here. |
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So you want to be a bass fishing professional. Today on Unplugged Pete Robbins highlights J Todd Tucker and the hard work and perseverance it takes to make to the top levels of fishing. A great read...
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The Professional Anglers Association (PAA) is proud to announce some of the details for their 2010 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series. On the heels of three days of meetings in Kentucky, the PAA has finalized their tournament format, entry fees, payout, field size, off limits and event dates. The 4 tournament series will take place in a centralized area of the country to reduce travel expenses for the anglers as much as possible. Exact locations, registration dates and other details will be announced in the near future.
PAA President, John Crews, said, “We are ecstatic to have many of these details ready to release. The PAA wanted to announce these details so everyone can plan their 2010 calendars. We will have more details to release about the events once they are finalized. We know our events are going to create fantastic opportunities for our members to fish more televised, pro level events.”
2010 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series
Format:
30 Day off limits before first practice day (no info and not on water)
3 day official practice (Sunday- Tuesday)
1 off day (Wednesday) for registration and other activities
3 day tournament (Thursday- Saturday)
Full field on first 2 days
Top 30 fish the final day to weigh in at Bass Pro Shops store
Pro only – must be a TOUR level member of PAA to fish any tournament in 2010
Member Observers all three days
150 boat full field, 160 boats max
Dates:
July 8-10
August 19-21
September 9-11
October 21-23
Entry Fee: $2,500 per event (4) with a $750 deposit per event
Payout:
1$50,000 ($10,000 cash plus prize boat)
2$20,000
3$15,000
4$13,000
5$12,500
6$12,000
7$11,500
8$11,000
9$10,500
10$10,000
11$6,750
12$6,750
13$6,750
14$6,750
15$6,000
16$6,000
17$6,000
18$6,000
19$6,000
20$6,000
21$6,000
22$6,000
23$6,000
24$6,000
25$6,000
26$6,000
27$6,000
28$6,000
29$6,000
30$6,000
31$5,500
32$5,500
33$5,500
34$5,500
35$5,500
36$5,500
37$5,500
38$5,500
39$5,500
40$5,500
41$5,500
42$5,500
43$5,500
44$5,500
45$5,500
46$5,500
47$5,500
48$5,500
49$5,500
50$5,500
Big Bass Award: $1500 ($500 per day)
Total Payout: $400,000.
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Deep water finesse expert Jeff Kriet loves to throw shaky heads. Whether out fishing with his travel partner Mike McClelland or down at Bakersfield, Missouri at Jewel Headquarters, Kriet is all about building something better. His new Jewel Squirrel Head is no exception. Light wire hook, perfect balance and a specially designed keeper will turn your fishing into a "masterpiece." Look for LongHorn sponsored pro Jeff Kriet and you will also find a great selection of the new Jewel Squirrel heads. You can also find them by clicking here.
We just concluded the Jewel Squirrel Head Contest and the 5 anglers below will be getting a package of the new Squirrel Heads landing on their porch very soon.
The winners are:
John Siejak
Tonawanda, NY
Jeff Smith
Morgan Hill, CA
Billy Lawson
Warrior, Al
Frank Arnold
Monroe, NC
Bill Margis
Green Bay, WI
Thanks for entering and look for more great Wired2Fish contests from your contest headquarters.....Wired2Fish.com.
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Berkley and Abu Garcia will partner with the Bass University as a supporting sponsor. Berkley pro Michael Iaconelli and Pete Gluszek will be on hand to provide instruction and tutelage at each seminar to anglers looking to stay ahead of the curve.
“Bass University is perfect for the avid angler looking to gain a better understanding of the techniques that professional anglers use,” said Iaconelli. “This will allow myself and fellow pro anglers to teach avid anglers the tricks of the trade in a classroom type setting. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share with other anglers that want to learn more.”
Berkley and Abu Garcia will provide giveaways and prizes at each Bass University seminar. Students that attend the seminar will receive two days of intensive classroom education taught by today’s top anglers. Iaconelli and Gluszek will provide one-on-one instruction and offers an open forum for discussion.
“Berkley and Abu Garcia is thrilled to have this opportunity,” said Tammy Cox, Berkley Marketing Manager. “It is a great opportunity to grow our sport and pass along a greater understanding for today’s top techniques among professional anglers. Students have a great opportunity to learn from the best and Pure Fishing is proud to have the chance to be part of Bass University.”
The Bass University provides students with the most comprehensive bass fishing instruction available. In its first year in existence, Bass University students will gain access to the most cutting edge techniques, tackle, and equipment. Students will also receive a one-year subscription to BASSIN’ Magazine, course literature, Berkley items in official tackle gift pack and Bass University t-shirt. For more information please visit www.thebassuniversity.com
Upcoming Bass University Schedule
December 5-6, 2009
Philadelphia, Pa.
January 9-10, 2010
Sacramento, Calif.
January 23-24, 2010
Nashville, Tenn.
February 6-7, 2010
Dallas, Texas
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Alvin Shaw, a longtime FLW Kellogg's pro, contacted Wired2Fish this a.m. and wanted to issue the following statement regarding Kelloggs no longer sponsoring a team on the FLW Tour. Kelloggs is one of the oldest sponsors of FLW Outdoors and based on uncertainty regarding Genmars Chapter 11 filing has decided not to re-up for 2010. Alvin Shaw is a class act and he felt it was appropriate to thank Kelloggs for their involvement.
Below is the statement from ATS Fishing:
Professional Angler and longtime Kellogg team member Alvin Shaw confirmed yesterday that Kelloggs would not be sponsoring a team for the 2010 FLW tour season. “It is a huge disappointment to all of us who have worked together on behalf of Kellogg's for so many years. Not only will Kellogg's be extremely hard to replace in a financial sense, it will be difficult to find a sponsor of Kellogg’s caliber. The company truly represents everything good about America – innovative, focused, fiscally responsible, dedicated to providing the best product available, and extremely loyal not only to its employees but its customer base and the communities in which it is privileged to operate. I am just so grateful to have been a small part of this wonderful company for the last 10 years.”
Mr. Shaw, who has one of the more impressive FLW Tour records with 2 FLW Tour wins, 13 top-10 finishes, 11 championship qualifyings and career winnings of $ 735,000, notes that his current 2010 FLW Tour plans remain indefinite as he continues discussions with potential sponsors. He is not alone in his search for new backing as a number of companies have made the difficult decision to cut back on advertising dollars allocated to professional fishing teams. “While the FLW organization has done a wonderful job of bringing the excitement of top-level competitive fishing to many sections of the US, for the individual fisherman it is an extremely expensive venue in which to participate” commented Mr. Shaw. “Without major sponsorship most would-be participants are unable to compete, and I am no exception. I’m currently talking with some outstanding companies and hope to have the opportunity of turning all of my energy toward representing one of them. If nothing materializes though, I can honestly say I’ve had the best 14 years possible, and with more free time, I can always just ‘go fishing’.”
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We spend a ton of our hard earned cash on our products. We need to protect them. Durasafe has some great new products that are specifically designed for anglers. To take a look at all of their products click here. |
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More ethanol in the nation's gasoline supply? Not just yet, said the Environmental Protection Agency on Monday when it announced it will delay making a decision on a waiver requested by the pro-ethanol lobbying group Growth Energy to increase the amount of ethanol in gas beyond the current 10% level. However, the country's largest recreational boating organization says it remains concerned that the EPA said that it will review initial findings on testing of mid-level ethanol blends in newer automobiles before revisiting the waiver possibility in mid-2010.
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.) says that the harm already inflicted on boat owners when ethanol in gasoline was increased to 10% (E10) several years ago should be a concern for regulators as they debate the effect of higher ethanol blends in all gas-powered vehicles and equipment - not just automobiles.
"Waiting for the data is a step in the right direction," said BoatU.S. Vice President of Government Affairs Margaret Podlich. "However, focusing on automobiles leaves out millions of other gas-powered engines. If you own a lawn mower, chain saw, all-terrain vehicle, generator, or boat, I would be very concerned over the costs to repair or replace those items after using higher levels of ethanol gas. Additionally, the possibility of selling gas with different amounts of ethanol content at the pump raises significant infrastructure and consumer education concerns," she added.
Ethanol came into widespread use as a "oxygenate" or combustion enhancer after a previous additive, MTBE, was identified as a carcinogen. However, many boaters were caught off guard as the level of ethanol, also an effective solvent, was increased in the nationwide fuel supply to 10%, or E10, with little notice. This introduction of E10 damaged boat fuel system components such as gas tanks, fuel lines and seals, and caused some catastrophic engine failures while boaters were forced to pick up the tab for expensive repairs.
When ethanol fuel is stored for several months, it can attract moisture and "phase separate" into different solutions of low octane gas and water that will not burn properly, if at all. "Storage is not an issue with cars as most Americans regularly fill their tanks. However, would your emergency generator start when you need it?" asks Podlich.
The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety has also raised concerns about higher levels of ethanol and the lack of independent testing. The accelerated deterioration and failure of fuel system components, ethanol's affect on clean air devices, and level of risk for fire and explosion in the recreational boat fleet are cited.
"We strongly encourage the EPA to use the next six months to consider the effects of higher ethanol blends on all gas powered engines, and not on just new products. Americans deserve to know if all of their gas-powered engines will run reliably and safely on this proposed new fuel," said Podlich.
An Ethanol Lobby Solution?
One solution proposed by Growth Energy -- that seems to acknowledge that not all gas engines may be suitable for higher blends of ethanol gas -- is to make available two different blends of ethanol fuel at the fuel pump. BoatU.S. believes that offering two blends of ethanol gas is neither practical nor realistic.
"Having an additional type of higher ethanol fuel available would require new gas pumps and possibly storage tanks, and would cause significant customer confusion and misfueling. There is no federal requirement to label gas pumps -- consumers in some states don't know what they are buying now, so how are they expected to make the right choice if there are even more options available in the future?" questions Podlich.
BoatU.S. supports a common-sense approach to the use of alternative fuels as a way for the nation to diversify its sources of energy. The Association is part of a coalition of 46 motor sports, environmental, food and citizen advocate groups under the banner followthescience.org. BoatU.S. is also member of AllSAFE the Alliance for a Safe Alternative Fuels Environment.
The association urges anyone concerned about a higher percentage of ethanol in gasoline and the lack of testing to contact their members of Congress.
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Anglers need all kinds of tools to be successful. Some are about fishing like rods and reels and the others are about safety. Take a look at this video with Texan Barry Stokes and we think you will agree that SiriusXM Marine weather is a must have for anglers everywhere. Not only can you track a storm, like the one in the video, but you can also receive up to the minute wind changes, barometer fluxuations, fronts, and details that will help you catch more fish. If you are looking for a great Christmas gift for an avid angler SiriusXM Marine Weather is the ticket.
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Elite Series pro Boyd Duckett has a new line-up of premium quality rods and a new company called Duckett Fishing. Listen to Boyd on Wired Radio with Terry Brown talk about his new rods and what its all about. To listen click here
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Today on Wired Radio BASS Internet guru Ken Duke talks with Terry Brown about what they have shaking on the Bassmaster.com website and what they do to keep anglers informed. To listen click here.
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Pure Fishing, the parent company of Berkley, Abu Garcia and All Star, is proud to partner with BoatUS for the National Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship. This marks the third year for the partnership and continuing dedication by Pure Fishing to the collegiate angler.
“These young anglers continue to improve every year both academically and in their angling skills,” said Sr. Marketing Manager, Andrew Marks. “Their desire to grow their bass clubs and participate in conservation efforts will help guide the future of our industry.”
Pure Fishing awarded over $10,000 in cash and prizes last year and is again offering numerous incentives for tournament wins and Big Bass Awards at Regional Tournaments. The Berkley Conservation Institutes sponsors the Collegiate Angler of the Year, which combines angling skills and academics that rewards the student anglers for recognizing ways to improve the industry and conservation.
Berkley has been producing the most advanced fishing equipment for over 70 years and is now part of the largest fishing tackle company in the world. The Berkley portfolio of products includes some of the most popular brands that anglers use around the world including: Trilene™, FireLine™, Big Game™, PowerBait™, Gulp! ™, Gulp! Alive! ™ and Lightning Rods™.
Abu Garcia, founded in Svangsta Sweden in 1921, uses Swedish engineering to develop the most popular reels in history. The Abu Garcia C3 is the #1 selling bait casting reel in the world and this commitment to excellence and durability has been instilled in the revolutionary low profile Revo series. The Revo defines the culture and commitment to delivering the best reels on the market.
All Star Graphite Rods are manufactured using the finest materials and components available. All Star offers technique specific rods, professionally designed and engineered with a unique blend of quality components for the avid angler
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Ish Monroe Will be appearing on MakeItPro TV tomorrow (December 2), at 5p Pacific/ 8p EST. Interviewing Ish will be award-winning journalist (formerly at CNN), Gary Baumgarten. The interview will be 30-minutes.
The interview is free, but viewers must register ahead of time... it takes only seconds. Click here to register.
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Sitting in the old rocking chair and reflecting on plastic baits from days gone by is a fun deal. Since we have been around this sport for years we have seen products come and products go. Some are gone because they were ahead of the times and many are gone because they were behind the times. If you are in something long enough you do get to see history. Plastic baits are no different. Some come and some go. Some we wished would have stayed and others that should not have been made to begin with.
Great products built long ago with staying power include Producto, Culprit, Creme, the Zoom Old Monster, the Ditto Gatortail, Mann's Augertail, and the ZetaBait Ding-a-ling. Some are still made today with a very large following and others have gone away. Those of us who have been around for a while have some favorites and still have enough of them hidden away to use at the best times.
One bait that we really miss is the Gene Larew Salty Saw Tail 6 inch worm we call the "Hound Dog" mainly because it sure can hunt. Speaking to George Toalson at Larew he remembered the old girl and believes the mold was made by Hugh Harville. "Back in the early days we had several baits made by Harville and they sold them to all kinds of companies. The Salty Saw Tail was one of those baits, I believe" said Toalson.
We use this bait on river systems. Combined with the 4" Ring Worm it is a one-two punch for finding a limit and catching a big one. We still rig it the same and use it primarily as a flipping and pitching bait. Rigged on a 4/0 thin wire EWG hook and a 1/4 to 5/16 ounce screw in Gambler weight this worm takes a tough day and makes it into a great one pretty quick.
The ribs on the worm catch air, the egg sack allows for great hook penetration and the saw tail mimics small bait fish. We use only two main colors, Pumpkin and Chartruese and Black/Silver Fleck and Chartruese. Depending on water color and time of year determines which worm works best.
The Gene Larew Salty Saw Tail is no longer in production but if you can find them, buy them. This dog can hunt!
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