Fishing

Fall Power Fishing Tips for Western Bass with Brent Ehrler

Bass Pro Shops — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:29:05 +0000

Fall Power Fishing Tips for Western Bass with Brent Ehrler

Bass Pro Shops Wed, 09/10/2025 - 11:29

Category

Fall Power Fishing Tips for Western Bass with Brent Ehrler

When fall arrives, bass behavior shifts dramatically. Bass Pro Tour angler Brent Ehrler breaks down how to maximize your fall fishing success with power fishing techniques, covering both the early and late fall transition periods. Whether you’re chasing largemouth in the Southeast, smallmouth in northern lakes, or spotted bass in reservoirs, these tips will help you locate and catch more fish.

Early Fall Transition: Where and How to Find Western Bass

As summer ends, bass move out of their deep, lethargic patterns and start chasing bait again. Here’s what to look for in early fall:

Prime Spots

Focus on shallow flats, creek arms, and transition banks where baitfish gather.

Feeding Windows

Bass may still feed heavily at night but are becoming more active in the morning and evening.

Best Tackle

Brent recommends crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures to cover water quickly and imitate baitfish schools.

Pro Tip

Keep moving until you find active fish. Early fall is about efficiency — if they aren’t biting in 15–20 minutes, change locations.

Late Fall Transition: Adjusting as the Water Cools

When water temperatures drop further, bass feeding behavior shifts again:

Key Locations

Look for main lake points, channel swings, and deeper structure where fish follow shad migrations.

Slow Down (But Stay Efficient)

While power fishing is still key, downsizing baits or switching to a suspending jerkbait can trigger strikes.

Behavioral Change

Bass group up more tightly, making electronics an essential tool to locate schools.

Pro Tip

Keep an eye on water clarity. In clear lakes, finesse presentations shine in late fall. In stained water, stick with moving baits that push vibration.

Power Fishing Tactics to Cover Water

Brent Ehrler emphasizes power fishing as the most effective way to find bass in the fall:

Use reaction baits like crankbaits, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, and topwaters.
Cover shoreline quickly, hitting shallow cover, riprap, and grass edges.
Pay attention to baitfish movement — bass rarely stray far from forage in the fall.

This style of fishing allows you to eliminate dead water and zero in on high-percentage areas.

Brent Ehrler’s Top Fall Power Fishing Gear

Shop Brent’s recommended tackle and gear for the fall season:
? Shop Brent Ehrler’s Fall Fishing Gear at Bass Pro Shops

Quick Checklist: Fall Power Fishing Essentials

✔️ Medium-heavy casting rod & fast reel
✔️ Crankbaits (shad & crawfish colors)
✔️ Spinnerbaits & bladed jigs
✔️ Topwater walking bait
✔️ Jerkbaits for late fall
✔️ Electronics for locating bait schools

Download this checklist, print it, or save it to your phone before your next fall trip.

Fall is one of the most exciting times of year to be on the water. With Brent Ehrler’s early and late fall transition strategies and power fishing approach, you’ll be equipped to find bass quickly and keep your line tight.

? Shop online today at basspro.com or cabelas.com
? Find your nearest store: store.basspro.com

FAQs

Q: Where do bass go in the fall?

A: Bass follow baitfish into creek arms, shallow flats, and later migrate toward main lake points as water cools.

Q: What are the best lures for fall bass fishing?

A: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, topwater lures, and jerkbaits are all effective fall power fishing options.

Q: What time of day is best for fall fishing?

A: Early morning and evening hours are typically best, but cloudy or windy days can produce action all day.

Alaska Fishing is for Fun so Plan Your Trip in Easy Steps

Keith Jackson — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 11:00:00 +0000

Alaska Fishing is for Fun so Plan Your Trip in Easy Steps

Keith Jackson Wed, 10/28/2020 - 06:00

Category

Fishing

You won’t find better fishing in North America than that in Alaska. Not only are there more fish, but also there is more fishing opportunity and more variety in the types of fish than you’ll find elsewhere.

Boats used by lodges and charter
services are comfortable and well
equipped, making a day on the water as
comfortable as possible.

The thing about the 49th state is that it’s big: 2,400 miles east to west and 1,420 miles north to south. Even with that size, it takes planning to get the kind of fishing that’s on your bucket list. And with sports-show season underway, this is both a good time to do the research and a good time to get the best deals.

Alaska is set up for the fishing tourist, so it’s possible to do everything from a fly-in, self-guided raft trip to a full-service trip that will cover every thing from airport pickup to shipping your frozen fish home.

You also can create a do-it-yourself trip where you rent an SUV and hit the road, camping along the way. And there is a lot of opportunity between extremes.

Of course, money and time enter into the calculations, and both come before anything else. Once you’ve determined your budget and how much time you can spend on the trip (adding two days for air travel), the rest follows a basic plan.

Tip: Shop saltwater fishing gear at Bass Pro Shops here

1. Where in Alaska do You Want to Fish?

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Classic
Round Baitcast Reel

First, do you want to fish along the coast or in the interior? The coast has the allure of saltwater fishing, and the interior brings big rainbow trout, char and grayling to the mix.

If you opt for the interior, then there is the choice between fly-out trips to lodges or daily trips by plane of helicopter. You also can travel the road system and get into some good fishing.

Fishing along the coast gives you seasonal runs of salmon in streams as well as rainbow trout and steelhead. It also meshes nicely with trips in the saltwater for salmon, halibut and bottom fish.

There is more opportunity along the coast as far as lodges and support services than the interior, making a coast trip easier to put together in my book.

Tip: The Abu Garcia C3 round baitcasting reels are appropriate for a huge variety of gamefish, including bass, striper, catfish, walleye, pike, muskie, lake trout, salmon, snook, redfish, and more.

Skippers and Alaskan fishing charter
services like this traditional pose, but it
does show the common range of fish
species: salmon, halibut, lingcod and
rockfish--both black and yelloweye (the red
ones).

2. Saltwater Fishing in Alaska

Saltwater fishing trips stand by themselves because they are significantly different from fishing in rivers and lakes. They require a boat, whether one you bring up, one you rent or one that you charter. You can also sign up for fishing packages at lodges.

There are considerations.

The saltwater in the northern Pacific and Prince William Sound is a place where both the weather and water get rough—really rough—at a moment’s notice.

The Alaskan Combination Salmon and Halibut Fishing Trips

Combination salmon/halibut trips often have a long run to where the fishing is hot. While it’s a good time for a nap, it is a bit wearing.

Lever drag reels are
excellent for halibut fishing.

Halibut fishing usually is in deep water. It’s not a big deal to drop the two- or three-pound sinker to the bottom, but reeling it and two- or three-pounds of bait back up from 500 feet is tiring. It’s even more so when it comes along with a 200-pound halibut. Catch a couple of big halibut in a day, and you’ll sleep very well at night. It can be hard work. However, electric reels can take the pain out of it; not all charters have them, so it’s best to check.

The fun thing about saltwater trips, besides the whales, seals, sea otters and weird fish is that you’re likely to come back with a bunch of Alaskan fish—salmon, halibut, lingcod and rockfish. All are excellent on the table and worth many times the cost of processing, freezing and shipping home.

3. Freshwater Fishing in Alaska

Freshwater fishing generally is easier than heading out to the ocean, but it does have drawbacks. While there is abundant fishing, often enough it requires a guide with a boat to get the most of it. Many lodges offer packages with guides or guide services they work with, and that’s an easy-button alternative.

Lazily rafting on the Kenai River, Frank K.
from Anchorage, Alaska, USA

When many fishermen think of Alaskan rivers, one name is prominent: the Kenai. This river is the home of some fantastically large king salmon—kings close to 100 pounds have been caught in the past--with fish well over 50 pounds hooked each year. If you want to catch a really big king salmon, this is the river in which to do it.

However, this probably is the most heavily fished and crowded river in the state. Each fishing season the town of Soldotna swells with well over 100,000 visitors. (In the summer of 2016, there were 166,000 visitors to the Soldotna area, according to a McDowell Group survey. Not all were fishing.)

As a result, the Kenai is a busy river with regulations in place to protect the future of the fishery. The same can be said for the nearby Kasilof River, a river that does not allow motors on boats, making it a drift-boat river.

While the tourist industry is huge in the Soldotna area, the fishing still can be quite good, especially for the less popular coho salmon.That area is not the real Alaska, but you still get a good feel for the state.

Tip: Bass Pro Shops has an outpost in Anchorage. The jaw dropping dioramas representing the wildlife of The Great Land, engaged in terrific depictions of harrowing danger and amazing scenery. A local muralist Susan Watkins, and the talented Bass Pro staff, have hand painted every surface to show off the glories of the great land. Even the grasses were harvested from the onsite green belt.

The Fishing department is not to be missed, especially the White River Fly Shop. Designed to look like a Southeast Alaska Native gathering structure, its prominent feature is an unbelievable Sitka Spruce tree meant to be walked through!

Tip: Inside Canada? Find a Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's store near you here

Inside you will find everything to catch that trophy grayling or salmon. The experienced staff is there to offer tips and advice from fishing streams and rivers, to setting up a downrigger and tackle. Plus you can order your fishing gear online and pickup in store.

4. Planning the Lodging and Expenses for a Fishing Trip to Alsaka

Trip planning should take into account remote
lodges--those found only at the end of a float
plane or boat trip. This lodge provided docking
for a boat on an overnight fishing trip

a) Once you’ve settled on what kind of trip you want to take and the budget for it, then it’s only a matter of choosing the one that fits you best.

b) When you’ve settled on an area in Alaska of interest, contact the lodges and lodging, charters and guides to get pricing and availability. The earlier in the year you do this, the better the chances you’ll get the dates you want.

c) Find out what’s included in the price, as some lower-price packages don’t include much. For some of the more expensive lodges in Alaska, the expenses include everything except your clothing, camera and checkbook.

d) Plan on cost to include fishing licenses and special tags, lodging taxes, taxes on each box of fish, fish processing, gratuities, food and beverages. Transport to and from the airport can be expensive, especially if a floatplane is involved. Extra expenses can shoot a budget in the, uh, foot.

e) Some lodges process your fish, including cleaning, vacuum packing and freezing as well as transport of the fish to the airport or shipping facility. Some lodges provide raingear and boots—both of which you must have in coastal Alaska. Some lodges will serve three meals, and usually the fare is top grade.

f) Some lodges offer fly-out trips or touristy-type activities if you’re travelling with a non-fisherman. And it’s also possible to add a day or three to your stay and do the tourist thing. Alaska is worth it!

g) While planning an Alaskan fishing trip can be daunting at first, it needn’t be. Determine what you want, what you can afford and what you’re willing to do. The rest is easier than hooking your first salmon.

5. A Few Helpful Aids in Planning the Perfect Alaskan Fishing Trip

I’ve found these sites to be useful for my Alaskan adventures:

Travel Alaska: The Official State of Alaska vacation and travel information https://www.travelalaska.com/Things-To-Do/Fishing.aspx

Alaska Fishing with Mark Glassmaker: For guided sportfishing and accomodations on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula https://www.mgfalaska.com/kenai-peninsula-activities/

Fish Alaska Magazine: Fishing and hunting trip planning services. Find destinations, lodges, guides and charters plus flight services and even an events calendar. https://www.fishalaskamagazine.com/best-alaska-fishing-lodges/

Alaska.org: Plan and book your dream trip to Alaska. Services range from lodging by town to transportation, cruises & land tours, things to do, destinations to see, backcountry tours, float trips. The list is too long to mention all but here's a link to get all the information: https://www.alaska.org/where-to-stay/fishing-lodges

SIDEBAR

A word about seasickness: If you want to try ocean fishing— an excellent idea and my first choice always—and you have a history of motion sickness of any kind, or you think you might be susceptible, see a doctor. Get a prescription for scopolamine or its equivalent. Scopolamine patches have a long history of working well in Alaska. I’ve seen them do wonders to turn people who get sick at the dock into folks who enjoy the tossing and turning of rough water.

Over-the-counter meds could work for you, but why take the chance? The ocean can get rough, and there almost always are swells that can exacerbate that woozy feeling. Don’t ruin a day or a trip because you’re not prepared.

Another consideration is to find a lodge or charter service that stays in more sheltered waters—such as the Southeast panhandle or around Kodiak Island.

Have a great trip!

Region

United States

Tags

Alaska

Fishing

Best Places to Fish in Texas: Lake Conroe

Fishidy — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 21:35:13 +0000

Best Places to Fish in Texas: Lake Conroe

Fishidy Fri, 07/26/2019 - 16:35

Category

Fishing

Strategy and Fishing Tips for Locating and Catching Fish in Lake Conroe

Lake Conroe was created in 1973 by impounding the West Fork of the San Jacinto River. Originally created as a water supply, the lake is extensively used for recreation. The shoreline is highly developed with residential and commercial development.

Largemouth bass are the most pursued sportfish in Lake Conroe. The lake holds a moderate-sized population but has good potential to grow trophy-size bass. Channel catfish are the most abundant sportfish in the lake, with crappie, white bass and hybrid bass providing additional opportunities for anglers.

Lake Conroe is diverse with a variety of aquatic plants. Emergent, submergent and floating plants can be found in the shallow water in coves and creek arms. The exact area covered by vegetation will vary from year to year, but generally ends up being around 2,000 acres.

Flooded timber can be found in many of the creek arms especially below the Cagle Recreation Area and upstream from Scotts Ridge. Private individuals have placed countless brush piles. Private boat docks along the southern half of the lake provide excellent cover. Creek channels of larger inlets will provide some cover.

Excessive amounts of hydrilla were present in the late 1970’s. Grass carp were introduced to reduce the amount of vegetation present. As a result, hydrilla coverage is now at an acceptable level.

5 Key Strategy Tips to Locate and Catch Lots of Fish in Lake Conroe:

Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbait

1. In summer, largemouth bass often relate to ridges, roadbeds and along shoreline riprap. Crankbaits are the top producing bait at this time.

Chartreuse with an orange belly, firetiger, Tennessee shad and chrome with a blue back are great colors to use. The lure should run deep enough to bump the bottom occasionally on the retrieve.

2. White bass tend to stay deep from mid-summer through mid-winter. Fish will relate to deep-water structure, such as humps. Slabs and large jigs in white, yellow and chrome should be used.

7 lb 15 oz Largemouth Bass - Lake Conroe

3. Crappie will spawn as early as February 1, if the weather is sufficiently warm. Spawning fish will seek brush piles, buck brush at the backs of coves, boat docks and shallow pond dams for places to reproduce. At this time, fish are ready biters. After the spawn, crappie will be found either in or around brush piles. Small minnows or jigs consistently produce fish.

4. Using heavy fishing line for trotlining for catfish is popular in the upper end of the lake. Baits used by rod and reel anglers will also work here.

5. Spring and summer are good times to pursue sunfish on Conroe. Fish can readily be caught worms placed below a bobber. Shaded areas around boat docks, shallow brush piles or the rocky area along dam will consistently produce bream. Ample numbers of sunfish can provide a good way to introduce a child to the joys of fishing.

Find even more fishing tips, including an interactive map for Lake Conroe, and fishing reports across the state of Texas on Fishidy.

Region

South West

Tags

Fishing With Kids

Bass Pro Shops Cabelas — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 14:51:40 +0000

Fishing With Kids

Bass Pro Shops… Tue, 07/02/2019 - 09:51

Category

Fishing

Let’s be honest: It’s not as simple as it sounds, even though we hear it all the time. “Take a kid fishing.”

It’s a meaningful mantra, and good advice.

But turning good intentions into a good morning on the water with a 7-year old isn’t the easiest thing on your Saturday morning to-do list.

Here are a few ideas to make sure those first fishing trips lead to many more.

Turn your backyard into a back shop
Avoid the hour-long, enthusiasm-sapping drive around town looking for fishing worms by growing fish food just off the porch. Set aside a little-used corner of the yard, and put out a scrap of plywood, a few logs, and even a bucket of occasional compost. In five minutes you can fill a bait can or two with enough worms, crickets, and grubs for a street party at the local pond. See how it works? You haven’t yet left the house and you’ve already caught something: bait.

Take two rods
One is for your child. The other is for when your child bird’s-nests the reel beyond a quick field repair. The larger lesson is this: Don’t try to fish yourself, not at first. Focus all your attention on the young angler. Explain the basics of baiting hooks, casting and playing fish, then let them have at it. It’s frustrating for a beginning angler to watch the old pro succeed effortlessly, so give the kid all your attention and all the water.

Forego disaster
Smash down each and every barb on each and every hook. Each and every time.

Plan on a fish fry
Most kids will love taking a few fish home. They like to feel as if they’re providing for the grownups for a change, and eating what they catch is a valuable lesson in the proper role of the ethical angler. So don’t get hung up on size. I’ve fried up a world of 3-inch fish fingers, all to make a point. And a tasty one.

Know when to fold ’em
It’s always better to leave when they’re wanting more than to overstay a young angler’s welcome. If you’re not catching fish and your kid is getting antsy, by all means, go chase bullfrogs or butterflies instead. Some kids embrace the challenge of close-mouthed fish by trying new strategies. But others will remember a long afternoon of Dad saying, “five more minutes” for the last hour-and-a-half. Don’t be that guy.

Fishing Waders Buyer's Guide

Mathew Brost — Sat, 22 Jun 2019 20:35:28 +0000

Fishing Waders Buyer's Guide

Mathew Brost Sat, 06/22/2019 - 15:35

Category

Fishing

Finding the correct wader can be a difficult task for some anglers depending on what and where they're fishing. It's not uncommon for anglers to own more than one pair of waders to avoid the many disadvantages that can come with having the wrong wader at the wrong time, but unless you have deep pockets you're probably going to have to compromise in some areas to find one wader to suit most, if not all of, your needs.

You may need to compromise on the material, quality of construction, overall warmth, weight and shoe type. If you are looking for a product that will last you a lifetime instead of a single fishing season, you're going to have to come to terms with the fact that higher quality calls for a higher price tag. If you're playing the long game, it will cost significantly less money now than it will to repeatedly replace a pair of low-quality waders.

If you do not choose your wader type wisely, you can swamp yourself in a couple feet of water and your day of fishing will be over all too quickly. Such scenarios illustrate why it's vital to know the environment you'll be fishing in. The best way to identify your environment is to ask: What is the average water and weather temperature of the areas you fish? What is the depth of the waters you'll need to wade in, from getting in and out of the boat to the deep pools hidden along a given river?

Once you identify your typical angling environment, you'll be ready to equip yourself with the best fishing wader for your needs.

Why Waders?

The concept of waders was around well before the first manufactured wader hit the production line in the 1850s. Waders remain the sole solution for keeping shore anglers dry and warm after an entire day on the water.

It can be hard to justify purchasing waders in the $400-$900 range unless you understand their importance. Waders protect anglers from trench foot, a medical condition that causes the outer layer of skin to rot and deteriorate from fungal infections after standing in cold water for extended periods of time. Most people know that dreaded feeling of a sopping wet sock squelching in and out of their boot with every step, or actually feeling their feet sucking up river water as they wade along the shoreline.

The Big Three

The three most important considerations to make when selecting a fishing wader are the comfort, durability and breathability.

Comfort

Every product will fit differently, so don't plan on finding your one size across all brands. Always use the brand's sizing guide and be sure to check online forums or reviews to better understand the fit of the product. It is possible to buy fishing waders online, but you run the risk of buying the wrong size. Your best bet will be trying different products on at a local outfitter before ordering online.
The measurements you should be concerned with are your inseam length, maximum girth diameter and shoe size. For maximum comfort and overall longevity of the product, take the time to find a pair of waders that covers all three of these factors. Too small a fit will put stress on the seams, causing leaks and discomfort. Too large will allow the excess material to fold and weaken, causing tears over time.

Durability

If you plan on wearing your waders all day and possibly hike from one fishing hole to another, you need to plan on buying a wader that meets your own durability standard. Some wader materials are more resilient to scuffs and nicks than others, but a more durable material often results in a heavier or warmer wader, so find your sweet spot and stick with it. The better the quality, the longer the product will last, even with hundreds of hours on the water a year.

Breathability

The purpose of a wader is to resist water passing through to the wearer. Waders that are waterproof but not breathable tend to get a little hot and steamy, which defeats the point of wearing waders to stay dry. A breathable fabric that is also impermeable will allow sweat to evaporate through the material keeping the user dry underneath.
Consider the warmth of the wader in relation to the breathability. The thicker the wader is, the more warmth it supplies and the less it breathes. Warm waders are best for frigid if not freezing water and weather but may be too heavy for packing.

Wader Types

The type of the wader you choose will be dependent on the depth of water you plan to wade in. A good rule of thumb is to add half a foot to the maximum water height to avoid flooding your waders and potentially carrying you downstream.

Hip Waders

If you don't plan on wading very deep and find yourself mostly fishing small mountain streams and shallow creeks, hip waders will provide you with the coverage you need. It is important to consider the speed of the water alongside depth. One wrong step in a heavy current can require you to drop to your knee in order to prevent full immersion, in this scenario hip waders may not be ideal for you.
Hip waders are designed for water depths that do not pass knee level. They provide a comfortable fit, especially in warmer temperatures, and are the lightest and easiest waders to use.

Waist-High Waders

The waist-high wader is the middle ground between full blown chest waders and the minimalist hip waders. These waders look like a pair of rain pants held up with a hip belt and are meant for water depths no higher than the angler's thigh.

If you happen to spend the warm summer months fishing mountain streams fed from glacial lakes or snow melt, you will be standing in freezing water for prolonged periods throughout the day. The waist-high wader is a decent option for such a scenario as it provides more coverage, increased warmth, but leaves your upper half exposed so you can stay cool on top during warmer days.

Chest Waders

Chest waders offer maximum coverage without a super restrictive fit, which is why so many anglers love them. You can layer up underneath for warmth or have extra room to comfortably use inside pockets on other garments. The beauty of the chest wader is that you'll be prepared for almost any unexpected fishing scenario, whether fighting a stubborn fish, heavy currents or sneaker waves.

An added benefit of chest waders is the maximum coverage they provide both inside and outside the water. Even the windiest, rainiest, wettest day of fishing will be enjoyable thanks to the warmth and protection of chest waders. Be warned, if you do happen to tip and fill your waders with water you can find yourself in a dangerous situation. For safety's sake, always wear a wading belt with chest waders to prevent flooding.

Wader Styles

Bootfoot Waders

These waders have boots built into the wader itself and do not require the additional purchase of wading boots. Since the boot is attached to the leg of the wader, this is more or less a mess free wader great for anglers who fish from the beach where sand and other debris can collect in undesirable areas.

The benefits of bootfoot waders are the ease and speed of putting them on and taking them off as well as the added warmth. Drawbacks of this style are their increased weight and inability to customize the shoe fit as there are no laces to tighten the boot around your foot.

Stockingfoot Waders

Stockingfoot waders have always dominated the market in terms of availability and selection. They require separate wading boots to be purchased, which can be a daunting task, but without the attached boot, the stockingfoot wader is much lighter and thus the better option for backpacking into fishing holes or for traveling anglers.

The perks of stockingfoot waders are that you'll have more freedom of choice when it comes to the traction underfoot. The different traction options are covered below but should always be considered in accordance with terrain.

Wading Boots & Soles

Rubber Soles

These soles are ideal for muddy or marshy conditions and are extremely easy to clean after a long day of fishing. These are commonly found on bootfoot waders though they are not the only wading boot sole option for that style.

Felt Soles

Felt soles have picked up quite the reputation for not being very eco-friendly as the felt can trap certain bacteria or microorganisms from one fishing spot and then transfer them to another region. Another downside of felt soles is that they inevitably wear down and need a felt-sole replacement kit. However, felt soles provide excellent traction on pesky slick river rocks that cause many anglers to slip or fall, flooding their waders in the process.

Studded Soles

There are studded soles on rubber bootfoot waders as well as felt soled wading boots. The studs provide traction on slick rocks and slimy river bottoms but are not ideal for muddy or marshy conditions as they can be a pain to clean at the end of the day. If you will be using studs in saltwater conditions, you should buy replacement steel studs for your wading boots, as they are corrosion-resistant and safe for use in the ocean.

Ultralight Wading Boots

These boots vary in sole type, from studded to rubber or felt, but they all boast a lightweight allure for the traveling fisherman without sacrificing warmth. Ultralight wading boots are becoming increasingly popular among fishermen who've grown tired of lugging around big bulky wading boots on top of all their other gear.

Wader Material

The material of a wader will often give the angler a slight advantage or, at times, disadvantage depending on the conditions they find themselves fishing in. When picking a material, make sure to consider the environment you'll be fishing in and how you will be spending your day out on the water.

Neoprene

Neoprene is a non-breathable but warm wader style ideal for anglers fishing in extremely cold waters and freezing weather temperatures. Because this material is not breathable, waders constructed with neoprene are limited to extremely cold water and weather conditions when an otherwise warm and breathable option won't do the trick.

Rubber

Rubber waders often use PCV in their construction and make for the ultimate waterproof product with added durability. It is rare to find a chest or waist-high wader that is 100 percent rubber as they are often coupled with other types of material or fabrics to provide added comfort and range of movement for the user. The material makes for a heavy product but its resilience to tears, scrapes and punctures makes it a strong option for rougher outings on the water.

Breathable Waders

Generally, breathable waders are made of nylon or polyester with the addition of a Gore-Tex membrane. Breathable waders are one of the more popular options among fishermen thanks to their subtle warmth, moisture wicking capabilities and overall lightweight construction. This wader is versatile enough to be worn on warm summer days spent fishing in colder waters as well as throughout the colder winter months of fishing with the addition of a couple base layers underneath. Keep in mind that breathable waders made of neoprene are not nearly as durable as their rubber/PVC counterpart and may require added reinforcement to knee or seat areas.

Wader Accessories

Along with purchasing your waders and, if required, wading boots, you will also find it wise to consider purchasing the following accessories. There is nothing worse than getting all the way out to the water only to realize that your waders are wet or leaking, or your felt soles need replaced. Make sure you're prepared for almost anything and stock up ahead of time.

Wader Belts

Wading belts should be worn with any pair of waders that offer belt loops. This precaution can prevent flooding and the risk of drowning.

Wading Socks

From heavy wool socks to knee-length, cushioned wader specific socks, it's important to keep your feet warm when you're standing in frigid water for hours on end. Buy a couple pairs of warm and reliable socks designed for use in waders so that they don't bunch up; having more than one pair ensures a back up pair if you need it.

Boot and Wader Dryer

If you want to take care of your gear and make it last as long as possible, you need to remove any excess water from your boots and waders as soon as you return home from a day of fishing. Fully drying your gear with specific wader and boot dryers will prolong the life of your gear.

Wader Repair Kits

You never know when you might get a snag, hook the material of your waders or fall and damage your gear, so having a back up patch or wader repair kit is smart. They aren't expensive and normally every brand sells their own version of repair kit.

As you can see, there is a wide selection of fishing waders on the market, all ranging in material, purpose and quality. You may feel as if you're wading through a sea of options at first, but once you find the perfect fit and style you'll have a high-quality product that will last you a lifetime of fishing. An angler who is equipped with the right pair of waders can fish with confidence knowing they can get into the water and never need to worry about getting cold or wet during a long day of fishing.

Best Places to Fish in Tennessee: Chickamauga Lake

Fishidy — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 15:28:24 +0000

Best Places to Fish in Tennessee: Chickamauga Lake

Fishidy Tue, 06/04/2019 - 10:28

Category

Fishing

Ranked #2 in Bassmaster Magazine's 2018 List of Best Bass Lakes

In Bassmaster's 2018 Best Bass Lakes revealed list, the Tennessee’s Chickamauga Lake took the No. 2 slot that year. Close to getting the No. 1 spot, as it also produced 40-plus-pound limits in 2018 spring. At that level, maybe the Chickamauga will actually take the #1 spot in 2019.

Despite the loss of weeds on this 34,500-acre lake, the largemouth remain the biggest draw. Crappie are abundant and there are good numbers of channel catfish, sauger and bluegill.

An impoundment of the Tennessee River created in 1940, Chickamauga Lake is situated in the southeastern foothills of Tennessee. The metropolis of Chattanooga, Tennessee resides on the southern most portion of the lake. The lake attracts millions of visitors each year in search of great hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, boating, water skiing and fishing.

The lake offers a variety of fishing opportunities. Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and striped bass are popular with many anglers. The lake also holds smallmouth bass, spotted bass, sauger and various sunfish species. Check out Chickamauga Lake's fishing reports,fishing maps and fishing hot spots at Fishidy.com here.

5 Key Strategy Tips for Locating and Catching Fish Chickamauga Lake:

1. Shallow Water Regions: These regions contain cover such as brush, drowned wood and docks attract post-spawn largemouth. Woody cover or brush found close to main points are particularly productive. Zara Spooks and Heddon Torpedos baits can be effective at this time. The month of May produce the best topwater bite.

Bandit 300 Series Crappie Crankbait

Chickamauga Lake Crappie

2. Spawning Crappie: During the spawn, crappie move into shallow brush and stump beds. Spider rigs can be effective. Following the spawn, typically by May, crappie move into deeper water ranging from 7 to 30 feet deep. Deep water drop-offs and near creek mouths are prime summer haunts. Summer crappie fishing can be difficult and can be sporadic. Trolling creek channel edges in 12- to 20-feet with deep diving crankbaits like the Bandit 300 Series Crappie lure can produce good catches.

3. Bluegill and Shellcracker: These fish provide exciting action for anglers of all ages and skill levels during spring and summer. April and May can produce the best catches.

4. By late Spring to Early Summer: The tailwaters below Watts Bar Dam attract catfish from throughout the lake. Deeper water becomes prime habitat for summer catfish. River channels with holes and humps with depths of 30- to 35-feet will produce fish when using nightcrawlers, chicken livers or cutbait. Summertime can produce big fish

5. Jump Fishing: This angling method can produce during summer and fall for white bass. White bass fish are aggressive and strike a variety of artificial baits. Quiet approaches are required to avoid spooking schools of bass. During fall, cool water temperatures chase white bass into deeper water and can be difficult to locate.

Find even more fishing tips, including an interactive map for Chickamauga Lake, and fishing reports across the state of Tennessee on Fishidy.com.

Region

South West

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Fish Identification: Do You Know Freshwater Fish? Test Your Skill With This Quiz

White River Marine Group — Fri, 17 May 2019 15:26:37 +0000

Fish Identification: Do You Know Freshwater Fish? Test Your Skill With This Quiz

White River Ma… Fri, 05/17/2019 - 10:26

Category

Fishing

Test Your Skill at Identifying Freshwater Game Fish Species

Think you’re a pro at identifying freshwater fish? Take this quiz and prove it! Through just 10 questions, we’ll see just how well you know some of the most popular freshwater fish species.

If you're an angler teaching someone how to fish or an angler seeking to comply with the fishing regulations and conservation requirements, you should know how to identify fish species. Here's a fun way to test your knowledge at identifying freshwater fish.

Tip: Shop quality boating gear and fishing tackle including fishing rods and reels at Bass Pro Shops here.

Tip: Find a Bass Pro Shops/Cabela's Boating Center near you here.

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Boating Centers are more than just boat dealerships. They’re here to help make your boating and off-roading dreams come true.

As the world’s largest volume boat retail network, as well as the world’s largest Mercury outboard retailer, the Boating Centers are proud to offer a wide selection of boats and outboard motors. Plus, more than 100 locations across North America feature TRACKER OFF ROAD ATVs and UTVs. So, we have something for virtually every outdoors need! And with sales consultants who are committed to helping you find the right product for your adventures.

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United States

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Quiz

Boating

Fishing

Best Places to Fish in Florida: Lake Kissimmee

Fishidy — Tue, 14 May 2019 20:10:15 +0000

Best Places to Fish in Florida: Lake Kissimmee

Fishidy Tue, 05/14/2019 - 15:10

Category

Fishing

Florida's Lake Kissimmee is Famous for Top Fishing

At 35,000 acres, Lake Kissimmee is the 3rd largest lake in Florida with a reputation as one of its better lakes for fishing bass and panfish. The anchor of the Kissimmee chain of lakes, it’s the most remote of Florida's 10 largest, highly acclaimed bass waters. Over the years, the lake has given up thousands of largemouth bass of 10 pounds or more. Until the 1960s, historically high and low water levels occurred every 5 to 7 years, which helped maintain balanced plant communities and a hard sand bottom.

Flood control introduced in the late 1960's eliminated the extremes of high and low water, but this accelerated aquatic plant problems, resulting in declining catches of sport fish. Beginning in the 1990's, Florida's Fish and wildlife Commission (FWC) instituted a vegetation management program to restore forage fish populations which will lead to an improved bass resource.

Below Lake Kissimmee, the river was straightened and deepened for navigation and the water level is controlled by a series of locks and spillways to Lake Okeechobee. Authorities have begun to implement a long-term plan to restore the river to its original slow, twisting course all the way to Lake Okeechobee.

The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes includes Hatchineha, (6,665 acres), Cypress (4,097 acres), Tohopekaliga (18,810 acres) and East Lake Tohopekaliga (11,968 acres). All the lakes, including East Lake, which starts in Orange County, are on the Kissimmee River and can be reached via navigation locks.

5 Key Strategy Tips for Locating and Catching Fish on Lake Kissimmee:

1. Fishing Baits for Panfish: Two very effective fishing baits on Lake Kissimmee for bluegill and shellcracker are grass shrimp and live worms. A small mesh net scooped through shallow vegetation is an easy way to collect this bait.

Bett's Bass Bug Popper Kit

2. Best Time to Fish: The best time to catch the redear sunfish also known as shellcrackers is during spring when they are found in spawning aggregations. You can get fancy with the fishing tackle, but only simple tackle is needed - a cane pole, a couple of split shot, and a bream hook. Drop the bait through the small openings in the grass and lily pads, lowering it right to the bottom. Repeat.

Once fish are located, anchor the boat and keep fishing the same area. If action slows down, restart the search. Bluegill gather in shallow, sandy areas from late spring to early fall to sweep their spawning beds. Fly fishermen also find plenty of bluegill action with popping bugs, especially in early morning and late afternoon. Earthworms, crickets, small spinnerbaits like the Johnson Original Beetle Spin and popping bugs are effective at catching the fish.

Lake Kissimmee Crappie

3. Fishing for Crappie: During the spring spawn, fish the shoreline vegetation for crappie. Cast small jigs or minnows into sparse grassy areas for the best action. Night fishing also produces large stringers of crappie. Caution is advised for night fishing however, because of the lake's size and lack of landmarks.

4. Catching the Big Bass: Concentrations of largemouth bass are often predictable on Lake Kissimmee, and most fishing guides prefer the hot weather because they generally catch bigger bass. During the warmer months, some anglers focus on the south end of the Lake, plus the canals and creeks, since it is easier to establish a fishing pattern in these areas. The bass usually hold up on patches of reeds or eelgrass, points or under fishing docks. North Cove and Philadelphia Point also hold good concentrations of bass.

5. How to Know When Bass are Nearby: The shiners will become excited and frantically struggle to get away. The shiners may head to the surface with the bass following right behind. A nervous shiner also may swim several feet away to avoid a fatal confrontation with a large bass. An observant angler will put the fish bait back in the same area where it was spooked. Keep your shiner in one spot at least 30 minutes to give the predator fish time to locate it and react to its fear and smell.

Find even more fishing tips, including an interactive map for Lake Kissimmee, and fishing reports across the state of Florida on Fishidy.

Region

South West

Tags

Best Places to Fish in Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks

Fishidy — Fri, 03 May 2019 15:45:25 +0000

Best Places to Fish in Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks

Fishidy Fri, 05/03/2019 - 10:45

Category

Fishing

Lake of the Ozarks is Famous for Dock Pattern Fishing

Located in a section of the Ozark Fisheries in Camden County, Missouri, Lake of the Ozarks is one of the Midwest’s oldest and most productive fisheries in the Show-Me State. It has gained a well-earned reputation as a bass factory that routinely plays host to national, regional and local bass fishing tournaments. Interestingly, it is also recognized as one of the most developed lakes in the nation.

Many local fishermen confine much of their fishing to the early morning and late evening hours, Monday through Thursday. If they fish on weekends, it is before 8AM and after 8PM, when recreational boat traffic is lightest. But, as a practical matter, those are also the best fishing times, so boaters and fishermen co-exist well despite the fact that the lake draws nearly 3 million visitors a year.

In addition to fishing, Lake of the Ozarks offers a wide variety of vacation and recreational opportunities. Most of the land around the lake is privately owned and respect for private property - especially boat docks - is required. Fishermen have the legal right to operate a boat and fish in all parts of the lake and its tributaries. However, common courtesy goes a long way toward preventing arguments with local landowners. No timber was left standing when the lake was impounded, which has resulted in approximately 75% of the cover in the lake being man-made. Homemade brush piles (especially around boat docks) form the primary fish-holding cover. Tournament bass anglers recognize Lake of the Ozarks as the most famous dock pattern fishery in the country. Other structure that remains - deadfalls, log jams, and buck brush - has accumulated naturally.

5 Expert Tips for Locating and Catching Fish in Lake of the Ozarks

1. Bass Fishing Patterns

Bass Pro Shops Rod Holder

The predominant bass fishing pattern is fishing brush piles around boat docks and the boat docks themselves. Identifying productive ones are the key. Look for docks with seats bolted to the dock or rod holders attached to the dock railing. They are sure signs a fisherman owns the dock, and that a private brush pile is present.

2. Bass-Holding Structure

Bass Pro Shops Squirmin' Super Worm

The lake's steep bluff banks represent the second significant bass-holding structure. These are fished most effectively by positioning the boat close to the bluff; casting to the base of the bluff and letting a jig or soft baits like a plastic worm fall to the ledges below.

3. Prime Fishing Areas for Catfish

Lake of the Ozarks has an under fished catfish population. Prime areas for catfish action include the riprap around the bridges crossing the main river channel, particularly the Grand Glaize Bridge on Highway 54. Other good regions include the mouths of coves, major creek channels feeding into the main river channel, and the channel side of bluffs.

4. The Best Crappie Fishing In These Key Locations

Bass Pro Shops Crappie Limit Tubes

Generally, coves near the main river and creek channels offer the best crappie fishing. Key on the pea gravel banks, brush piles and drowned timber. Tube jigs and minnows are productive. White, hot pink, red, yellow and chartreuse (and various combinations of these colors) are the most popular tube colors. Also, minnows suspended beneath a fixed or slip bobber are effective.

Tip: Find a large assortment of panfish lures at Bass Pro Shops here

5. Walleye Are Consistently Stocked in the Lake of the Ozarks

Cabela's Deep Hot Metal Walleye Runner

Although the Missouri Department of Conservation is working to enhance the lake's walleye fishing, the only spot that offers dependable action is downstream from Truman Dam in the upper Osage during spring. Although large walleye are sometimes caught in the main lake, they are seldom fished for specifically. Deep-diving crankbaits and bottom-bouncer live bait rigs are effective presentations.

Find even more fishing tips, including an interactive map for Lake of the Ozarks, and fishing reports across the state of Missouri on Fishidy

Region

South West

Tags

Best Place for Bucket-List Fishing, Venice, Louisiana

Keith Jackson — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 20:41:41 +0000

Best Place for Bucket-List Fishing, Venice, Louisiana

Keith Jackson Wed, 12/19/2018 - 14:41

Category

Fishing

Sitka and Seward, Alaska, are both competing for a place on the “Best Places for Fishermen” list. But so are Nootka Sound in British Columbia and God’s Lake in Manitoba. These distant destinations all have one thing in common—bucket-list fishing.

Head to Louisiana, a Place With so Much Fishing Variety

But for easy access to an equally spectacular fishery, few places surpass Venice, Louisiana, a place known as the "Fishing Capitol of the World".

It’s a gumbo pot of redfish and speckled trout as well as a number of other species that inhabit inshore and near-shore Gulf of Mexico.

The Venice area literally is the end of the road along the Mississippi River, Louisiana’s jump-off spot to the Gulf. It’s also a homeport for the oil industry.

What makes Venice special for anglers is that it gives anglers access to the marshes that line the Gulf coast. It’s also a shortcut to offshore fishing for blue-water species like tuna and swordfish. There is so much angling variety, that it can be difficult to pick one.

The Fishing Buffet

Redfish are members of the drum family and considered brutal fighters.

Ah, but the redfish…these members of the drum family are brutal fighters with a hard strike that’s often compared to an electric shock or a slap in the face. The runs are strong, and redfish don’t give up. But on top of the fight, redfish are superb table fare, and blackened redfish is a Cajun staple.

Redfish are creatures of the marsh. The shallow waters of the myriad bays, canals, ponds and trails cut through the roseau cane are home to redfish, and especially to schools of smaller ones—say five to eight pounds-- that help fishermen fill out limits.

The marsh along the mouth of the Mississippi is a wondrous place. It’s open to the Gulf, so the water is a blend of salt and fresh, and the mixture varies with the flow of the river, the tide, storms-- all the forces of nature that shape the delta.

The roseau cane handles the changes, though, and it’s a home to the crabs, shrimp and mullet that provide sustenance for the redfish and trout. And that is why the fish are there—the marsh is a buffet.

The Fishing Gear You'll Want to Take With You

Z-Man DieZel ChatterBait

Fishing the marsh, though, can be a challenge, not that the fishing is, but rather that finding one’s way through the canals and bays can be difficult for the visitor. A good GPS unit is a must, as are current maps of the area. The cane tends to hide all landmarks as a rule.

The fun thing about redfish is that you don’t need heavy fishing gear. They hit hard and slug it out all the way to the boat. But still, most bass tackle is a good match. A medium-heavy casting rod with a good-quality fishing reel is adequate for most everything.

If I had to choose one fishing line to use, I’d pick a quality 30-pound braid. The thin diameter works well for long casts, and the strength will help corral larger fish when they decide to head for blue water or into the thick of the cane.

Going lighter is an option, and spinning tackle works well as does fly fishing gear. It’s more a matter of matching your rod/reel/line combo to the lure or bait you choose to use.

Strike King’s Redfish Magic Saltwater bait

For redfish and speckled trout, often enough mixed together, a jighead and grub is pretty much standard tackle. Add a jig spinner, such as you’ll find on Strike King’s Redfish Magic Saltwater bait, and you have the combination that has put more redfish in the boat than live shrimp—or so it would seem. The combination of flexible spinner arm with a jighead and grub body is a near-perfect lure—the jig spinner helps make the lure nearly weedless, and the action of the tail of the grub and the color of the body combine to pique the fishes’ interest.

Plain grubs work when fished on a jighead or under a popping cork. Here, Berkley’s Gulp Alive fishing baits excel because of their scent. But there are times when more action or sound is needed. A bladed jig, such as Z-Man DieZel ChatterBait, is a great choice for action and color. Thread one of Z-Man’s Diezel MinnowZ on as a trailer.

Tip: if you’re fishing in the marsh, the water is relatively shallow, and a heavy lure will spend more time on the bottom than in a fish. A quarter-ounce jig is pretty close to the ideal weight in most of the backwater areas with heavier weights needed when fishing out toward the jetties. But don’t be afraid to use a one-eighth-ounce jig as long as it has a saltwater-grade hook.

Hard baits have their place in the redfish tackle box. Rat-L-Traps are a favorite when the water is deeper than a few feet; although, they can be fished close to the surface with a fast retrieve. By the same token, topwaters definitely have their place.

Rat-L-Trap Hard Bait

Saltwater grade poppers and walking baits work well when the reds are in the bays and oriented toward the surface. The key, here, though, is to make sure the hardware—the split rings and hooks—are heavy enough to withstand the mauling they will get when a big red tries to eat the bait.

Planning the Trip to Fisherman's Paradise

While fishing the marsh and jetties out of Venice seems ideal, there are warnings worth noting. First, the fish are not everywhere. Their movement is dictated by seasonal and environmental factors, and, let’s face it, by the whim of the fish gods.

Tip: For an angler new to the area, it’s a good idea to hire a fishing guide for a day or two with an eye to finding general areas to fish.

A guide can also show you areas where you can’t fish. Some water is private and closed to trespass, even if it is tidal. There also are areas where sand bars keep out any but the shallowest-running boats. And then there is the fact that the marsh is nothing but a maze, and there is the very real chance of becoming disoriented. As noted before, a good GPS system is a must, and a backup for that is an excellent idea.

And for a first-time visitor, it’s not a bad idea to tag on an extra day or two for a tuna trip. The blue-water fishing is stellar, weather allowing. There are blackfin and yellowfin tuna a boat ride away, and swordfish also.

With all this going for it, Venice indeed is a fisherman’s paradise, and one that’s in easy driving distance for most people.

Region

United States

Tags

Canoe Fishing

Kayak fishing

Kayaking

Fishing

Fall Power Fishing Tips for Western Bass with Brent Ehrler

Fall Power Fishing Tips for Western Bass with Brent Ehrler

Early Fall Transition: Where and How to Find Western Bass

Prime Spots

Feeding Windows

Best Tackle

Pro Tip

Late Fall Transition: Adjusting as the Water Cools

Key Locations

Slow Down (But Stay Efficient)

Behavioral Change

Pro Tip

Power Fishing Tactics to Cover Water

Brent Ehrler’s Top Fall Power Fishing Gear

Quick Checklist: Fall Power Fishing Essentials

Final Thoughts

FAQs

Q: Where do bass go in the fall?

Q: What are the best lures for fall bass fishing?

Q: What time of day is best for fall fishing?

Alaska Fishing is for Fun so Plan Your Trip in Easy Steps

1. Where in Alaska do You Want to Fish?

2. Saltwater Fishing in Alaska

The Alaskan Combination Salmon and Halibut Fishing Trips

3. Freshwater Fishing in Alaska

4. Planning the Lodging and Expenses for a Fishing Trip to Alsaka

5. A Few Helpful Aids in Planning the Perfect Alaskan Fishing Trip

I’ve found these sites to be useful for my Alaskan adventures:

Best Places to Fish in Texas: Lake Conroe

Strategy and Fishing Tips for Locating and Catching Fish in Lake Conroe

5 Key Strategy Tips to Locate and Catch Lots of Fish in Lake Conroe:

Fishing With Kids

Fishing Waders Buyer's Guide

Why Waders?

The Big Three

Wader Types

Wader Styles

Wading Boots & Soles

Wader Material

Wader Accessories

Best Places to Fish in Tennessee: Chickamauga Lake

Ranked #2 in Bassmaster Magazine's 2018 List of Best Bass Lakes

5 Key Strategy Tips for Locating and Catching Fish Chickamauga Lake:

Fish Identification: Do You Know Freshwater Fish? Test Your Skill With This Quiz

Test Your Skill at Identifying Freshwater Game Fish Species

Best Places to Fish in Florida: Lake Kissimmee

Florida's Lake Kissimmee is Famous for Top Fishing

5 Key Strategy Tips for Locating and Catching Fish on Lake Kissimmee:

Best Places to Fish in Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks is Famous for Dock Pattern Fishing

5 Expert Tips for Locating and Catching Fish in Lake of the Ozarks

1. Bass Fishing Patterns

2. Bass-Holding Structure

3. Prime Fishing Areas for Catfish

4. The Best Crappie Fishing In These Key Locations

5. Walleye Are Consistently Stocked in the Lake of the Ozarks

Best Place for Bucket-List Fishing, Venice, Louisiana

Head to Louisiana, a Place With so Much Fishing Variety

The Fishing Buffet

The Fishing Gear You'll Want to Take With You

Planning the Trip to Fisherman's Paradise