Bass Enthusiast - Catching Fish

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Catching Fish

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Even the most seasoned bass angler looses a few on occassion. Check out these tips for catching fish so you don't have to keep telling your buddies about the one that got away.

Catching Fish

Be in Control:

Remember these pointers when you hook a fish;

1) Always pay attention to the movements and actions of the fish once it is hooked. Not paying attention can lead to the fish un- hooking itself or the hook coming out.
2) Adjust the drag if necessary. Sometimes it is better to loosen the drag so the fish tires itself out before you reel it in.
3) Keep a taught line so there is no slack.
4) However, if the fish is going around in circles or moving to snagging your line, do not hesitate to give it some slack.
5) When a fish jumps out of the water ensure that you give the line some slack while keeping your rid tip pointed towards the water.
6) If the fish decides to stop in a weeded area, make sure you do note let up on the line (keep it tight), and wait until you feel movement again.

Bring it in:

When bringing a fish to the boat remember these tips;

1) If possible let the fish swim around until it becomes tired. A tired fish is easier to bring in a boat than one that still has some fight left in him.
2) Never reel your catch to the tip of your rod. Always remember to leave some slack that can be used which getting the fish off the hook.
3) Keep about a rod length of line out when a fish is nearing the boat.
4) If possible, have your net ready.

Nothing But Net:

The easiest way to loose a fish is to utilize a net in the wrong way. First make sure you have tired the fish out. Now to properly net a fish, submerge the net under the water and lead the fish into the opening. Never try to scoop a fish out of the water with the net because fish usually react to it by moving under the boat.

Un-Hook:

Most hooks can be removed from a fish very easily. The most efficient way is to hold the fish belly up (i.e. upside down), and working out the hook. If this cannot be done because the hook is dug in deep or is in a tough place, try to use some pliers or cut the line.

How do you Measure Up:

Since all states have some sort of length requirements, it is a good idea to keep some type of ruler in your tackle box. There is nothing worse than trying to explain to a game warden why you are keeping undersized fish.

Staying Alive:

The best way to keep your catch alive and fresh is to use a live basket rather than a fish stringer. Live baskets come in various sizes and are usually made or wire mesh. Usually they are hung over the side of a boat or put in the water when shore fishing. The best part of live baskets is you can show your friends or family a live fish.

Shady:

Don’t overlook shad areas by bridges, docks, or overhanging trees. During the heat of the day many varieties of fish will seek out these areas in order to escape from the heat of the sun. In addition try deep-water openings around week beds, lily pads, sunken stumps, or piles of debris.

Catch-and-Release:

To ensure proper treatment of the fish you catch make sure you include a pair or angler’s forceps, long nose pliers, or a wire cutter. When you catch a deeply hooked fish that you intend to release these tools will come in handy when trying to pry out the hook. Always remember that the strong acids in the fish’s mouth and stomach will eat away at the hook without killing the fish.