Sugar Lake 43 lbs

Image via WikipediaImage via WikipediaImage via WikipediaImage via WikipediaNew England Fishing Destinations - Fly Fishing in the Northeast

There are many excellent New England fishing destinations for you to consider. If you are a fly fisherman seeking some fine trout fishing or perhaps landlocked salmon, then here are some suggestions. You can choose from a variety of streams, brooks and lakes. You can also choose a variety of methods from trolling, fly casting on a classic trout river to small stream fishing for native brookies. It is all available throughout the beautiful states of New England.
If you are looking for a region to go trout fishing in New England there are many great regions to choose from. In Connecticut, only a couple of hours drive from New York City, you will find the Housatonic and Farmington Rivers in the northwest section of the state. Both these rivers offer a great opportunity to land some big fish, primarily browns. They may get rather crowded with fisherman due to their close proximately to NY but they are convenient for many and the fishing can be outstanding. Further north in Massachusetts the Berkshire Mountains in the western section is home to the Westfield and Deerfield Rivers, along with many smaller streams. Both the Westfield and the Deerfield have excellent trout populations, the potential for large fish and a wilderness fishing experience can be enjoyed. Both of these rivers have many tributaries that also should be explored. The central part of Massachusetts contains the Swift River, often considered the Mecca of the state for fly fisherman. Below Quabbin Reservoir in Belchertown this tailwater fishery can be challenging but the fishing is well worth it. Experienced anglers here will tell you that long fine leaders and tiny flies are often the best approach to catching the wary and strong rainbows. The Millers River is also a top notch trout fishing destination in central Mass. The areas near Athol and Orange off excellent fishing for brown trout.
In eastern Massachusetts there are many outstanding trout ponds to be found in Plymouth and Cape Cod. Long pond, Little Pond, Fearing Pond, Peters Pond, Hamlin Pond, Lovells Pond are just a few of the popular locations. The Nickerson State Park in Brewster has some outstanding trout fishing in Cliff Pond and Flax Pond. These are all deep, spring feed ponds with holdover ability and are well stocked by the state. Spring fly fishing and bait fishing can be excellent. As the weather warms the trout tend to hold deep in the cooler water. Be ready to troll deep or wait for the evening hatch to get action on the surface.
Some anglers will tell you that the best trout fishing in New England is in New Hampshire. Lake Winnipesaukee, The Pemigewasset River, Sugar River, Mascoma River, Ammonoosuc River, Androscoggin River and the upper Connecticut River all can provide a great fishing experience. Profile Lake in Franconia Notch, is well known for excellent brook trout fishing. It was also known for being the best location to view the interesting rock formation, the Old Man in the Mountain, prior to its collapse in 2003.
The great state of Maine is both large and full of many great trout fishing locations. Maine is also full of many areas that offer great landlocked salmon fishing. Landlocked salmon are one of the most exciting of all freshwater fish and it is a real treat to hook one on a fly rod! The Kennebec River, Penobscot River, Machias River, Grand Lake Stream and the Kenebago River are just a few of the many rivers that would make up a list of Maine's best trout streams. Moosehead Lake, Sebago Lake and Rangley Lake are all areas to consider as fishing destinations. Throughout New England there are many lakes and streams and they are all full of trout just waiting to bite your fly! Tight lines!

Do know all the best fly fishing locations in New England? You can learn more at New England Fishing Destinations. Our site provides outstanding information on fishing destinations and techniques. David Waters is an avid fisherman and outdoorsman with over 30 years of experience fishing, hiking and camping. Updated fishing information is also available at http://flyfishingfun.wordpress.com A resident of Massachusetts and a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, David has been helping other fly fisherman enjoy the sport in a variety of ways. He is also author of The Fitness Center Handbook.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_M._Waters

Huge Fish

Using Nature to Find Huge Saltwater Fish


There are many reasons people enjoy fishing in saltwater. Big waves can battle your ship and test your seamanship while the ocean's deep blue waters can hold teeming amounts of big fish. Tuna, sea bass, or grouper are just a few of the species of fish you can catch with the help of good fishing techniques. However, it is not easy to tell if there are actually fish in the sea you are fishing. Here are some natural clues you can look for to find the bigger fish.

First, try to find a spot in the sea where there is an abundance of sea birds. The birds show you that there are small fishes, since they are the bird's food. These small fish are also food for larger fish as well and odds are there will be a few predators stalking the shoal of baitfish. Just be careful not to catch a sea gull instead of a fish!

The second way to find fish using natural cues is to use the sea current as a guide. Most experienced anglers like to fish during times when the wind is generally blowing to the east. For some reason, this wind makes it much easier to find fish, while the west wind makes it difficult to find fishes. When the sea current is too big, it also will be difficult to fish. In other hand, fish do not like to feed in the low sea current either. Finding a local fisherman and asking his advice or to be your guide is your best bet to find when, where, and what the fish in the area bite on.

Finally, if you like to fish in the saltwater but you don't know where to find the fish, and don't understand the natural currents of the sea; you can always use a sonar fish finder. If you get the right device, they will be able to tell you how many and what sized fish might lurk in the depths under your boat.

Hopefully these fishing tips will help you catch more and bigger saltwater fish. If you're new to the high seas, you may want to read up on sea fishing boats so that you can find one that will fit your needs and your budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_W.

Fly-Fishing at Turneffe Flats - Belize

Image via WikipediaFishing on the Fly - Around the Lighthouse Reef Atoll!


Belize is naturally bestowed with a marine ecosystem that is conducive to the propagation and diversification of an astounding variety of marine flora and fauna. The Belize Barrier Reef acts as a natural shelter and source of food for a wide variety of fish - which in turn attract large exotic fish as well as large predatory fish, thus completing the eco-cycle. The ecological blend of freshwater rivers, sub-tropical climate, sandy beaches, inter-coastal waterways, sea grass beds, salty marshes and estuaries and not to forget the mangrove forest makes Belize one of hottest fishing destinations of the world.

Fly Fishing on the go...

Its often said that Fly Fishing follows saltwater streams - and this makes Belize, with its array of saltwater flats a haven for fly fishing. So, if you are hooked on tarpon, bonefish or a permit - then Belize is buzzing with Fly fishing spots for you. A tarpon in Belize's saltwater flats can weigh up to 90 lbs - so they are by no means in fly weight category. But, hold your breath, since these tarpons can reach to an amazing 200 lbs - lovingly called "Saltwater torpedoes". And if you haven't caught permit yet, then the first thing that you need to learn is 'to have tons of patience". Permits have a very discerning sense of smell aided by brilliant eyesight - making it a very prized game fish in the Belize waters.

Deep Sea Fishing...Beyond Lighthouse Reef Atoll!

At some point in time, every angler worth their salt tries to move outwards for a deep sea catch. Deep sea fishing not only needs a lot of patience and agility but also brute strength. Most of the deep sea fish will test your muscle power and will look you in the eye before deciding to come on board.

While in Belize, you can hope for quite an interesting mix of species - Dolphin, also known as Dorado or Mahi Mahi; Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish and Marlin. Dolphin is one of the best looking species in sea and their jumping antics are well known to seasoned fishers. They can weigh up to 50 lbs and the gaming season for Dolphins is between June and July.

Many visitors ask the question - "Why are fishing boats so brightly colored?" Those who live off the sea would swear that most sea fish are attracted to bright colors. So whether you are fishing for a Sailfish in spring, Wahoo in winter or King Mackerel during summer, a dazzling boat color is likely to increase your bounty.

Fishing on the Reef & Outer Wall

Where can you find Barracudas, Jacks, Groupers and Snappers just off the reef? Maybe, in a couple of places in Australia and Mauritius and that's it. But, the Barrier Reef of Belize is one well kept secret worth discovering - You only need a line, hooks and live bait and wait for the schools of fish coming to gorge themselves on crabs and sardines that pack the reef.

While the In-reef fishing might fetch you a 'mutton snapper' and 12 other species of smaller snapper weighing up to 5 lbs, the real action is on the outer reef. Here, the prize catch will be a King Mackerel and true to its name it will test your fishing skills - It won't go down without a good fight.

Fishing - In the right places...

Belize is a fishing paradise and areas around Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the Barrier reef are the treasure trove for all type of fishing, but a seasoned Belizean fisher will guide you to a few of his favorite joints..

Coral Atolls

If you are addicted to saltwater fly-fishing, the flats around the Coral Atolls such as the Lighthouse Reef Atoll are your best option - Bonefish and Tarpons will be an easy catch.

Belize City

Nothing tops the river fishing in an around Belize city - with Belize and Sibun rivers offering a bounty of game fish like Snook and Cubera. Punta Gorda is another great venue for river fishing.

Dangriga

The saltwater flats are also called "Permit Alley" - the best place in Belize to pocket a Permit.

A fishing conclusion!

From big game fishing to spin fishing, fly fishing to trolling - Belize is abuzz with fish action all year round. Are you game for deep sea fishing or even flat water fishing - Belize is the planet's best known fishing secret. Deep sea fishing around Lighthouse Reef Atoll offers exclusive species like Sailfish, Bonito, Pompano and Marlin.

No wonder that the demand for real estate around Belize has skyrocketed - because of what's happening in the waters around Belize.

Dustin Hart is not a quintessential writer - rather he is a back-packer who lives off his ultra-light folding bike. He lives (or tries to live) in the state of Washington - with his dog Toobs. He recently caught up with Larry Schneider of Eco Holdings Limited, an avid angler himself, in relation to the eco-friendly tourism & real estate in Belize.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dustin_Hart

Subway chooses wild Alaska salmon sandwich recipe

Subway restaurants chose a wild Alaska salmon sub sandwich recipe submitted by Anchorage's Ellen Cole as its new salmon sub. Cole is a professor at Alaska Pacific University. The sub combines toasted Italian herb and cheese bread, wild Alaska salmon, provolone cheese, tomatoes, red onions, olives, oregano, bacon, spinach and sweet onion dressing. The sub is now on the menu at Anchorage, Eagle River and Palmer/Wassail Subway restaurants. Cole was the winner out of three finalists in the contest. Other finalists were Alaskans 12-year-old Lauren and Jess Franco. Cole won a guided Kenai River fishing trip and rights to name the sandwich, which she dubbed Alaska Wild.

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Inside Alaska Business is compiled by Nancy Pounds of Anchorage. To submit information for IAB, email to editor@akbizmag.com. Information is printed two months after it is received on a space-available basis.

by Nancy Pounds

Catch and Release Fishing

Fishing is a sport, but it has become less about survival and more about fun in recent decades. There is an issue of fish becoming depleted and many anglers are now employing the practice of catch and release fishing. Catch and release fishing is a great theory, but many people are doing it incorrectly and as a result many fish are dying. A few steps should be followed when trying to catch and release a fish. Once you get the hang of how to do it correctly, you will be able to enjoy your hobby and keep the population of fish full in your favorite stream or lake.

The best place to start is with the hooks. A fish that has a hole through its mouth is going to be more likely to survive than a fish with a hole in its lung or gill. If you happen to hook a fish in the gut, the best thing to do is to cut off the hook as much as you can then release the fish. Many times the hook will dissolve and the fish will spit it out, but they can also live with a rusted hook hanging from them. Whatever you do, do not tug on your line to pull a hook out or you will severely hurt the fish. If you are able to easily remove the hook, use a pair of needle nose pliers. The process of pulling the hook out is easier if you remove the barbs from the hooks, but try not to wiggle while you pull the hook out.

Fish are obviously unable to survive outside of the water. Therefore, the longer that it takes you to release them, the more it becomes as if you are suffocating them. The way that a fish is gripped when out of the water will make a big difference. For instance, avoid touch a fish’s body with your bare hands. The fish have a slimy protective coat that will be stripped if you touch them with your hands. If you have to touch a fish, make sure that your hands are wet. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts or permeating fish smells.

Part of the fun in fishing is to “play out” the fish. The struggle can be what some anglers wait all day to do. Fish are like humans; when they “work out,” they build up lactic acid. When you are fighting a fish, they are fighting too. Just like when someone works his or her body out and it feels sore, a fish experiences the same thing. The build up of lactic acid can be toxic to a fish even days later. Therefore, if you are going to practice catch and release, try to keep the struggle to a minimum.

Try not to let a fish flop around when you catch them. A fish that flops around can bruise or damage its internal organs, causing them to die later from the injuries that are incurred. You can also revive a fish if you need to do so. A fish is likely to run out of oxygen and pass out, so to speak. In order to revive a fish, you place the fish in the water with their belly down and gently grasp their tail. Start to slowly move their tail back and forth until they give you the signal that they are ready to take off into the water. Sometimes you will need to repeat the process more than once, but don’t let a fish go until they are ready. A fish that is not ready to swim could get carried away and swept into rocks or embankment and cause serious injury.

More than anything, when you are practicing catch and release, have everything ready to go. Make sure that your camera, pliers, and gloves are in reaching distance. Try to take the precautions necessary to preserve fish and one of America’s favorite pastimes.

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Fishing For Beginners

Image via WikipediaIf you are new to the sport of fishing, you need to know some of the basic rules of fishing. Like other forms of hunting, fishing involves both your environment and those around you. Be respectful of both. You can responsibly enjoy this treasured pastime in several ways.

Fishing is an ancient practice. It dates back nearly 10,000 years. A number of various techniques and traditions have been used during fishing's progression. Modern technological developments have changed the way people fish, but many of the same rules, regulations, and social norms involving fishing remain.

Always practice good stewardship of our waterways when you are fishing. Remember that these waterways were around thousands of years before you and will remain long after we are gone. You can make a conscious decision to leave the areas in which people fish in better condition than when you found it. Take care of our lakes, rivers, and other waterways so that others will enjoy these areas for years to come. Practicing certain behaviors will ensure that you are taking good care of the places where people fish.

Never litter when you are fishing. Always bring a trash bag or other receptacle to use for the collection of your trash. You can easily deposit it in a nearby trash receptacle. Dump your refuse in properly assigned dumping stations instead of tossing it in the water. You do not need to spend much time figuring out the many ways in which this hurts the environment.

As you fish, always use the correct type of bait and fishing gear. Certain areas allow for certain bait and gear. You will also encounter limits on the number, size, and kind of fish that you can keep. Become familiar with what these limits are and pay attention to them. Do not wait until you are at your fishing spot to search for what is allowed and what is not. Check with your destination before you head out on your fishing trip to see what the local regulations allow. If you plan on using a boat while fishing, research to see what kinds of watercraft are allowed where you are going to fish.

Every fishing location is different, so pay special attention to local procedures and cautions. This also applies when you decide to clean your boat after you leave the water. You do not want to spread non-native species to another body of water.

Finally, never fish where it is not permitted. There is always a reason why it is illegal. Some reasons include the protection of certain wildlife, the proper care of vegetation, and the safety of you and others who want to fish.

You should also follow a number of cautionary behaviors to ensure your safety. As with all forms of hunting, safety is first. If you will be using a boat while you fish, always wear your life jacket. Make sure that your passengers wear their life jackets, as well.

Be very careful when baiting and removing hooks. Make sure that you never fish on unauthorized waterways. Follow the posted speed limits and wake warnings that accompany the use of a boat. Bring with you all relevant safety items, such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone.
          
Fishing continues to be a favorite pastime. 2001 saw nearly 16% of the U.S. population over the age of 16 spend 16 days fishing. You enjoy the sport of fishing, so follow the rules that allow for the continuation of fishing. Be responsible and courteous of others and your environment. Take time to discover how you can be both a better and safer angler.

Fishing With Children

Image via WikipediaOften times as adults, we want to share our hobbies and pastimes with our children. However, it can be difficult to decide when that pastime is appropriate. Children have shorter attention spans that make it difficult to calculate when they are ready for certain things. Fishing is a common hobby of many people around the world and many people are eager to introduce their children to fishing the minute they can hold a fishing rod. Fishing is a lesson in patience for children and a structured way to teach them a sport that involves precision and safety.

When you take your child fishing, the most important thing to keep in mind is their safety. What kind of fishing are you trying to introduce? Are you thinking about a day of bottom fishing? Does pier fishing suit your needs? Are you going to go all out and take your child for a deep-sea fishing excursion?

Regardless of what you decide is best, you should have the basic safety essentials with you at all times. A first aid kit is mandatory because whenever a kid is involved accidents will happen. Children tend to get poked, scratched, and barbed, so you need to be prepared. If you are going out into the sea and away from the shore, make sure that you have life jackets and make sure that your child is wearing one even he or she has no intention of getting into the water. Keep in mind your child’s abilities when it comes to swimming. If you do not think that they are a strong swimmer, you may want to keep your boat docked.

Make sure to buy and stock your child’s tackle box. A youngster’s first tackle box should be small and lightweight. There is nothing complex about the contents of a beginner's tackle box. All a child needs are some pre-tied hooks, some bobbers, a couple of weights, swivels, and small scissors or fingernail clippers to cut their line. A tackle box is a fingerprint for many who view it as a personal expression. Let your child see the basics so that they can build their own to represent themselves one-day.

Make sure to lead by example when you take your child fishing. Teach them how to keep the line taut so that they will be able to respond properly if a fish bites their line. As soon as your child feels the bite, teach them how to set the hook. Tug back on the rod in order to firmly set the hook in the fish’s lip. Take the time with your child to let them learn techniques like “playing the fish”. Part of the fun of fishing is the struggle between the man and the fish, so let your child have the entire experience and not just a partial one.

When you introduce fishing to your child, you have certain advantages to teaching them at a younger rather than older age. Younger child have a greater absorption rate with a desire to soak up as much information as they can. Take the time that you and your child are sharing to educate them about catch and release regulations and fishing for food as opposed to pleasure. If your child decides that they want to let the fish that you catch go, make sure that you know the right way to release. Cleaning the fish can either make a child vomit or ask when the next trip is going to be, so use discretion in regards to age when preparing your catch for dinner.
There will be good days and bad days when fishing with your kids. Kids have a tendency to not listen, become disinterested fast or fall asleep at inopportune times. Patience is the key to taking children out for a day of fishing. Repetition will also make your child more comfortable with the whole process. Regardless of whether a fish is caught or not, take the time to bond with your child while using fishing as an excuse.

Fishing for Sharks

Image via WikipediaIt seems like every sport has a category that is set aside for the extreme. Believe it or not, there are some that were not deterred by the movie Jaws and they choose to seek out sharks instead of run from them. If you are so bold as to take on shark fishing, you should understand some basics before hitting the open sea.

If your goal is to actually catch a shark, the best time to do it is in June. The temperature is not too hot and it will attract more of the predators you seek. If you decide to fish for sharks in the middle of the summer, you should be aware of water temperatures and try to find the coolest spot possible.

When you plan a shark-fishing trip, you need to be prepared. Many people would advise keeping a checklist beforehand in order to help you with preparation. Some things that you should include when packing for your trip are chum and proper gear. Your rods and reels should be able to handle a three hundred fish or greater. Typically, you should plan to fish with three to five baits in the water at a time. Therefore, you will need many rod and reel setups to accompany the ratio of bait.

The best rod to use is a fifty to eighty pound class rod. You should not forget your harness and safety straps (you do not want to fall overboard and become live bait). In addition, you want to remember your bait and chum. Running chum is the most effective way to trap a shark so be prepared for a mess onboard.

It is important to know what species of shark you are wanting to fish. Different sharks swim at different levels and temperatures. In order to set a shark trap, you will have to tie your farthest bait off the bow rail with a flat line clip. Make sure that the line is out of the way and stay in the highest rocket holder on the particular side of the boat from which you are fishing. You should attach your bait, attach a weight or balloon on the line, and plunge it approximately eighty feet. The second rod’s bait is set down sixty feet while resting in the trolling holder; this line is also attached to the midship with a rubber band. The third line is set down thirty feet with no balloon but rather free bait. You should make sure that your drags are loose so that you will be alerted early by the clicking sound of the reel. If you color code your balloons, it will be easier to tell which rod is being pulled.

Once you have waited and finally caught your shark, be prepared. Sharks will have different temperaments and act according to their agitation. Some sharks have been known to slightly drag the bait before they swallow, while other sharks will run at the boat, run in the opposing direction from the boat, or come right up to the boat. If you need a harness, make sure that the harness is safely attached to the boat and the reel.

Once you have the shark close to the boat, your experienced sidekick will be able to help. You will want to hand wire the shark into the boat. Hand wires are meant to be sturdy and they will not break if you are attached to them. Do not wrap the wire around your hand because you want to be able to let go of the wire easily if you have to. If you are keeping a shark, you will need to gaff and rope it by its tail.

                                                         
Remember that you should only keep a shark if you have plans to eat it, use it in a tournament or if you believe it is a contender for the world record. You can take a picture with the shark without killing it.

Fishing With GPS

Image via WikipediaIn this day and age, you would be hard pressed to find a fishing boat without some sort of fish finding device. GPS devices have become the latest in technology and water safety when it comes to fishing. They are used as a means of navigation and a way to mark your spot so that you can find it again in the future.

A GPS is a Global Positioning System that is made primarily for navigational purposes. They work off a network of satellites that are placed into orbit by the United States Government. The best part about a GPS system is that because they operate off satellite, they can be used in any weather conditions at any hour of the day.

The satellites will circle the earth twice during the day and transmit signal information to Earth. The signals can then be used to calculate the user’s exact location by implementing triangulation and pinpointing exact spots. Triangulation means that the GPS receiver must be locked into three spots before a calculation of longitude and latitude can be displayed. After the satellites have mapped the location, the GPS can narrow in on other satellites for useful information such as speed, track, trip distance, destination distance and sunrise or sunset times.

The accuracy of the GPS system is very acute because of the multi-channel designs that are available. A GPS will lock onto a satellite and maintain that lock through one of their channels. A GPS fish finder is accurate up to fifteen meters while the newer models increase in accuracy up to three meters.

There are many benefits to investing in a GPS and people are using GPS more regularly and relying on them more than the more traditional ways of navigation such as maps and charts. If you have plot points that you have saved on a GPS, you may be able to save time and frustration on the open seas by going directly to the location that had the fish the last time you went out.  Another advantage to the GPS is that it can detect hot fishing spots that may not be detected by older maps or charts. In addition, if you find a perfect fishing spot, you can share it with a friend when you go fishing on another boat.

GPS systems are also a great safety tool when you are out on the water. Many times, especially if there are many people socializing on a boat, it can be easy to lose concentration. People will easily be turned around or lost and a GPS is an easy tool to use to find your way back home. You can also use a GPS system if there is unexpected bad weather such as fog or heavy rain. GPS systems are also equipped with mapping software that makes it easier to find a dock. The GPS is so accurate that it is able to communicate exact positions to the Coast Guard or rescue crew if an emergency arises.

                               
You can purchase a handheld GPS online or at your local marine or boating store. Ask a salesperson to help explain the different features and costs for the varying models. If you decide to purchase your boat from a dealer, you will need a built-in GPS. Your local boat supplier will be able to give you a reference to someone who can properly install your electronics.
You should never rely on just one navigation tool when you are fishing. A GPS seems to cover all of the bases, but it is still a computerized tool. You should always be proactive about your safety and always have marine maps and charts onboard at all times. You should also have a handheld radio handy in case of emergencies.

fishing accessories

For some people, fishing is a pastime. For others among us, it is a serious sport. However you perceive it, fishing is enjoyable when you’ve got the proper accessories to use. Here is a list of some considerations to think over.

Often there is a nice spot to fish from the shore of a pond, lake, stream or river. Other times, you will need to consider what kind of transportation you will need to get over the water. The canoe is the oldest craft. It is the traditional vehicle of the American Indian and has great traditional value, but that does not mean it is the best kind of water transportation available. A canoe can be tippy at the best of times and especially hard to handle in the wind but paddling or drifting along makes it easy to approach good spots to fish undetected.

A small rowboat without a motor is considered the best kind of boat to use since you can stand up in it to cast. Although it is best to row to the spot where you intend to fish, a small trolling motor is handy for travelling some distances. Larger pleasure boats with outboards are also recommended, but a boat with high sides is best as big lakes and broad rivers are prone to winds that can whip up big waves.

You will also need to pick out some quality footwear. This becomes especially important if you are going to fish by the side of a lake. Hip boots are the most practical for this as they can be rolled down if you’re not wading. While hip boots can also be used for stream wading, chest or hip waders are traditionally best here. When choosing chest or hip-wader boots, select ones that have a loose fit. Having waders that are too tight could restrict leg motion and undue stress on the seams could leave you wet.

The proper jacket is also a necessity. Jackets come in two basic lengths: Long and short. The long style is designed for fishing from a boat or wading in shallow water. If you are planning to use chest waders, it is recommended you use a short jacket since the bottom of a long jacket would drag in the water. You should select a jacket with generous pockets for carrying lure boxes and other accessories. A hat with a visor is another good idea because you will have your eyes on the water and need some kind of shade.

The avid angler has three stashes of lure and tackle-box containers. The first stash is for the home stockpile, the second and larger one for the boat, and a third stash is for the car. That way, you will always be covered in the event of a loss or other mishap. It is a good idea to buy a large supply at the beginning of the season too so you will have lots on hand, especially if you like to fish at night.

                                                 
With the right fishing accessories and gear, you can turn your fishing experience into a better one. The last thing you want when the time for that perfect catch nears is to realize you are missing an important piece of equipment. Preparedness is among the most important aspects of fishing, so make sure that you have all of the gear you need to have the best experience of your life.

Bass Fishing

Bass fishing is one of the most common types of fishing. Many bass fish are found in bayou water and salt water. They also move through lakes, ponds, reservoirs and streams.  If you know the basics regarding conditions and places where bass are likely to be, you will have more success when you fish for them.

Many variables change the location of bass, such as water conditions, water levels, weather, and light and food availability. There are three main elements that must be present in a body of water in order for bass to survive: Food, oxygen, and cover.

A bass’ favorite meal is crawfish, which they prefer over shad. Basically, crawfish are usually more plentiful and they are easy for the Bass to catch. However, a bass will typically eat anything from rats, mice, ducklings, frogs, snakes, salamanders, worms, lizards, grubs, baitfish, insects, and leeches. Their ability to feast on one thing above another is why many people find such enjoyment from fishing bass.

Oxygen is another key component in finding bass fish. The basic rule of thumb is that the cooler the water, the more oxygen content. Therefore, if you are fishing in the spring, summer or early fall, you will find that the larger bass will drop down lower to find the cooler and more oxygen-filled water. They will also swim to find areas that are more concentrated in vegetation in order to find a better oxygen source. Trees, stumps, wind-blown banks, and power plants are all good sources of oxygen that will attract bass fish.

A bass relies on cover for a means of protection and way of ambush. Cover is part of a bass’ survival. The bass is known as a lazy fish, so they will hide and wait for their prey to come to them. The other reason for cover is that bass fish do not have eyelids and the cover is a way to prevent blindness. Some common cover areas to find bass in are around fabricated wood structures such as fencerows, docks, and pilings. They have been known to hide under floating pieces of wood or decaying wood. Weeds are the second best place to hunt for bass. Finally, rocks are the third place that bass will find cover. Rocks are not as reliable as weeds or wood, but sometimes a bass will find decaying pieces of food to feast on within some rocks. Remember that rocks do not produce oxygen, so the source is not as consistent.

When it comes to fishing, everyone has a different opinion. You will often find that these opinions range in location and source. However, there are some lures and baits that are recommended for bass fishing that may be useful if you haven’t tried them. Tequila colored 7-inch worms with added scent are recommended, as well as Rebel Wee-Rs. Hellgrammites are thought to be the best live bait, and many will say that you don’t need big lures to attract big bass. Everyone will tell you to tie up to an embankment, or find a dock to get close to, but it is really an art that could take years to perfect.
                                                   
Bass are notorious for slow moving and lack of distance in their movements. Logically, you could sit 30 feet from the biggest bass of your life, and he is not going to swim to your bait out of pure laziness. Finding the exact spot is difficult and a lot of fishing has to do with luck. The only part that you can control is finding the most likely places that a bass may be and exercise some patience. Weather is important to bass as well. If it is a cloudy day, you might have more luck than on a hot summer day. However, overcast is probably ideal for water temperatures, but then you have to decide what you are willing to sit through in order to catch a fish. The bottom line with bass fishing is you can only do your best with the knowledge at hand.

Bikinis, Barracuda & Bonefish on Los Roques

Los Roques Island Beach - Venezuela

Los Roques Island is amongst the very best of the best of the Caribbean islands, located 160kms north of the central coast of Venezuela. It consists of 40 coral islands sprinkled along with hundreds of smaller islets, sandbanks and flat sandy cays. The Los Roques archipelago comprises of a great variety of beaches, with regards to rock formations and types of sand.

The isolated Los Roques archipelago encompasses 340 islands and is surrounded by about 2kms or 1.2 miles of a range of over 250 coral reefs. With numerous beaches, the place is a haven for tourists to put their feet up and savor the sun and sand in style. Perfect for fishing, diving and snorkeling, Los Roques is a place waiting to be discovered.

Primarily, a bone fishery, Los Roques also provides great opportunities for snook, baby tarpon and permit during certain times of the year. Furthermore, it is place renowned for its small wade able flats which present wonderful fishing prospects for decent sized tailing fish and for the beach fishing where the bonefish lie, just off the beaches in order to raid the baitfish. With the option of operating the traditional Pinero boats or their keys-type, flat skiffs, they can access water and hence a variety of species and types of fishing which a Pinero cannot such as stalking schools, pods, or singles.

In the Los Roques archipelago, time has almost reached a stand-still, its natural beauty sustained, wild and exotic, surrounded by a special magic that enraptures everyone including its homegrown people and their way of living. The islands are famous for their diversity of marine fauna including parrotfish, red snapper, dolphin, octopus, shark, barracuda, and the almost-extinct queen conch.

Los Roques Island is practically unknown to the tourists, more than ever when compared with its well-marketed neighbors, Bonaire and Curacao. It is one of the few virgin paradises left in the Caribbean, offering an isolated Caribbean, with sea birds, and several beaches bathed by crystal clear waters, turquoise color, beckoning for a quick dip, after a nice walk under the radiant sun on the almost surreally white sand.

To rest and recover from the stroll on the beachside, you can find a cozy nook, where, besides relaxation and attention to the tourists, you can embark on an excursion in small fishing boats to inhabited islets. However, to maintain the extremely natural environment of Los Roques there are no big hotel chains, so as to preserve the natural beauty of the place. Its varied and interesting fishing combined with a prolific birdlife, good quality lodging, and a serene island atmosphere that will remain etched in the mind for a long, long time, makes the lengthy trip worthwhile.

http://bikini-online-show.com/

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Fishing Belize for Tarpon, Snook, and Jacks

Big Bass Fishing in South Africa

South Africa Boasts Some of the Best Fishing in the World

Fishing in South Africa is not just popular along the coastlines of the country. There are rivers, streams and dams across the length and breadth of the land that trout and bass anglers swear by. Dullstroom and the Drakensberg spring to mind, and once you've been to places like Lakenvlei north of Belfast in Mpumalanga, Big Creek in the Magaliesberg and Misty Mountain near the Tsitsikama Forest they'll be indelibly etched into your memory. Such incredible beauty!
Of course, salt water fishing can be spectacular too. Flanked by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Indian Ocean to the south and east, South Africa has nearly 3000km of coastline and nearly every coastal spot offers rock and surf fishing opportunities. Richards Bay, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London are among the ports recommended for off-shore and deep-sea fishing charters, and if there is one place in the country that has earned a reputation as one of the best game fishing sites in the world it must surely be the waters off Cape Town and Cape Point - Hout Bay and Simon's Town in False Bay being two harbour towns on either side of the peninsula that visitors can't seem to have enough of.
There is no shortage of B&Bs, guesthouses, hotels and properties to rent wherever you plan to go fishing, whether on the coast or inland. The people who know the waters best in the various vicinities are also best placed to suggest where to stay in their areas and, to make contact with anglers in almost any given town, you could begin your search at http://www.tightlines.co.za where the details of hundreds of fishing clubs are listed.
An organisation that many a fisherman has found to be useful is the South African Deep Sea Angling Association at Tel +27 (0)35 550-5018. Fly-fisherman on the other hand might like to chat to the guys at Fly Talk, Tel +27 (0)82 376-3529.
Flyfishing Magazine and Ski-Boat Magazine are two of Africa's leading fishing periodicals. Getaway Magazine is also worth looking at if you want advice on where to go and where to stay when it comes to local fishing destinations of note. That said, most of the best reads about how and where to fish as well as accounts of fishing adventures told by master story-tellers are between the covers of some of the wonderful books that have spun out of people's passion for their subject.
Paul Curtis's Fishing the Margins provides a history and bibliography of fly- fishing in South Africa, and one of the most prolific authors on the topic is Tom Sutcliffe, teaching with his manuals and entertaining with Shadows on the Stream Bed in which he enthralls with tales about some of the places he's been to and the people he's met. For more great fishing stories there's also The Rapture of the River by Sydney Hey, a great South African classic and a must in the library of every angler for whom fishing is more than just about reeling it in.

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Fishing with Rod: First white sturgeon

What do you mean "oversized"? That seems a little strange to apply to a potential fish one might catch. Sturgeon that are too small to be retained are called undersized. There is also a limit on how large a sturgeon you can keep for your smoker. The oversized sturgeon (which can live for 80+ years) are anything over 54 inches long. They can be caught but must be released.

Sturgeon have always seemed a bit alien to me. I have sat on the bank of the Coquille river at my Grandpa's farm and told myself that I was sturgeon fishing. In reality I was more likely fishing for sculpin with my undersized equipment and bait. Wanting to fish for a fish is a feeling that festers in a person. You can ignore it for a while but you know, deep down, that you've got to do something about it. And I finally did. I saved my spending money and I booked a day fishing with a guide, one who specialized in fishing for oversized sturgeon.

We met at 5:00 am at the boat launch near Camus, Washington on the Columbia river. The guide indicated that we wouldn't be launching right away; we needed to catch our bait first. So I loaded up into his truck and we drove 26 miles up river to the Bonneville dam. The water levels were so high that the dam was dumping water over into the Columbia creating churning whitewater. This is where we launched from. As we put the boat in and climbed aboard I felt an excitement in my stomach one only gets when you do something that matters. This was serious water and we were going in; man vs. nature. It was awesome.

The danger of casting yourself adrift on a maelstrom of a river was felt only by me, my guide apparently didn't have a care in the world. He maneuvered the boat about a half mile downstream and cast the anchor at a spot he knew. It must have taken him a lot of work to locate this spot and he used the anchor and a water anchor with precision to make sure I'd be fishing in the exact spot he wanted.

The rod's were set with a crank bait with the hooks removed and a dropper leader ending with a small spoon. It struck me as a great way to fish that I will have to remember. The crank bait pulled the spoon down in the current keeping it where the fish were. The spoon's were a Northwest standby; wee Dicknite's. I mentioned that I've heard the best color is the half silver half brass but my guide assured me that any color would catch us all the bait we would need. We let the lines out and let the river current do the work. Our first hit came within minutes. I reeled in a 15 inch Shad. It put up a great fight. The fish must have weighed between 1 and 2 lbs. It was a lot of fun. This is the size fish I normally fish for. This was to be our bait. Oh no... not for the day, for one cast. We planned on fishing for sturgeon with these fish whole. It took us maybe an hour and a half to fill the coolers with shad.

We probably had 60 lbs of bait as we headed back down the river to the spot where we would relaunch in pursuit of sturgeon. Downstream the river is still huge but I was more at ease because the water had mellowed. We motored to another exact spot and set the anchor. Our set up here was a bit different. We used 100 lb test line tied to 200 lb test leader tied to a big old hook. The hook went through the head of a shad and then the leader was carefully wrapped around the fish in three or four places to hold the bait on in the current. A ball of lead the size of a baseball was then clipped onto the line. Before hooking the shad on it was stabbed multiple times to let some nice juicy fish/blood smell escape. The bait was lowered into the water and then we began to wait.

Fishing for sturgeon reminded me of fishing for catfish. It's a slow pleasant experience that allows you to soak in the surroundings and ponder your life. Fishing for oversized sturgeon can be even slower because the giant bait you are fishing with prevents smaller fish from joining the party. I knew that if my rod tip moved, it would be because something the size of the boat was messing with it. I remember thinking about the smell of the shad wafting through the river and calling the huge beasts towards us.

The tip of the pole started bouncing. Time started to slow down. Could something really be pulling that much weight off of the bottom? Could it really be big enough to eat my bait? The guide grabbed the dancing rod and set the hook. The drag came to life with a scream. The guide handed me the pole and I felt the raw power on the other end. The fish was so strong that I could barely hold on. The drag was set as hard as it could be and this fish was stripping out line as fast as it wanted. My guide was shouting that "this was a hot one" and that he "couldn't believe that it had already gone through 150 yards of line". Me, I was trying not to get pulled into the Columbia river. It was one of the most exciting moments I can recall. I wanted to brace one of my feet against the edge of the boat but I was so precariously hanging on I didn't dare lift one of my feet up. My arms started to ache. The fish still pulled line whenever it wanted in between my feeble attempts to slow it. The fish broke my line. One hundred lb test snapped like nothing. The guide said it was the biggest fish his boat had been into in two years and he fishes there every day of the season. He estimated that it was between 400-500 lbs. I never got to see it but I will never forget it. The charge of adrenaline left my hands shaking and my legs soft and rubbery. Fishing for a fish that is an equal physically or in this case, my better, is an another thing entirely. I smiled the whole way in.

Paul Amdahl
author of
The Barefoot Fisherman; a fishing book for kids
http://www.amazon.com/Barefoot-Fisherman-fishing-book-ebook/dp/B005DN1IRI/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1194531986&sr=8-1

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Fly Fishing Sockeye Salmon on the Kenai River in Alaska

My Life As a Fishing Guide

Image via Wikipedia

Image via Wikipedia

Image via Wikipedia

Image via Wikipedia

Image via Wikipedia

Image via Wikipedia

A review of history reflects that guiding as a profession has existed for hundreds of years perhaps starting with the Ghillie of British fishing tradition. The early guides were viewed as men of reputable character, keen and knowledgeable in the ways of fish and rivers and skilled in the handling of boats and often the fishermen who shared them. Reputations gained by consistent patterns of success, repeated requests for their services, a testimonial by the fishermen who employed them. It is little wonder that their names were addressed with a deep respect by those who followed in their footsteps, or more appropriately in their wake. During those long fishing seasons the ghillie was a daily companion, mentor and familiar friend. The river was his kingdom and the fishing hut his castle.

How do today's fishing guides compare with those of yesteryear? Guiding in Alaska and in particular on the Kenai River has a short history, approximately 50 years at best. With such comes a certain lack of tradition including a nurturing process. An opportunity if not a requirement to work side by side with a more seasoned person is lacking. Among today's guides are those who posses a tremendous working knowledge of modern tackle and equipment as well as an understanding of the movement of fish and the waters as is humanly possible. However, often new entrants into the fishing guide profession are not afforded the opportunity to work with such a person, instead they are thrown into the fire having to learn as they go. These people become so concerned about having a job and making a living that they never gain a true understanding of what it takes to be a guide. A professional guide today is a full time job, not only fishing people in the Summer and Fall but also working for the industry throughout the year, pursing the trade as a way of life, ahead of all others.

Knowledge and experience are important factors when one is considering whom to hire as a guide. In the old days being a gillie was a profession in which tradition was strong and few acquired the knowledge and wisdom to make a success of the job who did not start young and was matured along the way. Often the ghillie of old spent his entire life working only one river, first learning about it and then experiencing it. Today there are some opportunities to acquire knowledge from the "experts" who are out in the field as well as from the printed media where their knowledge is placed. However, today the priorities seem to be backwards as there are less and less chances to take one's time and be nurtured. The emphasis instead tends to be that of getting the new guide out into the field and having one learn by his mistakes.

Joe Connors
Kenai River Fishing
Big Sky Fish Camp

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