Bass Fishing - Bigger The Knowledge The BIGGER The FISH

Author: Maisy Day

Why is it so important to have more knowledge under your belt when bass fishing, simple, more fish? Is your catch of bass becoming less on every fishing trip, did you ever wonder that the bait you are using is not to the fishes liking or could it be your choice of location to catch a whopper be the wrong speck.

If just starting out to join in the fun of bass fishing then it is important that you fully understand the needs on how to bait. Which bait to use - where are the best locations for bass fishing. The bigger your knowledge the bigger the fish.

Bass Fishing is practised by anglers who claim a sense of satisfaction when the fish start to bite. To become successful in this type of venture then you have to consider two things, the understanding of how to locate bass and to learn all there is to know about different techniques, presentations, and baits. All this information can be found in fishing manuals. Collect as much knowledge as you can from other anglers who are more familiar with the sport.

Just to know how to read a map will be beneficial when locating bass, the most practical places to search for lively Bass is after cold fronts and early spring. Weather conditions can either hamper or go in your favour when fishing for bass. If you are familiar with your waters then this will help a great deal in locating the best place to cast your rod. Water depth and temperature is a vital element that you need to be aware of because the depth or hollowness of the water will decipher if this part of the river - stream is where the bass are biting.

A consistent bass angler does more than just jump in his/her boat and cast bait. That is why fishing tournaments are so popular -competitive and fulfilling to all who take part in these contests.

There is much more than meets the eye behind this sport. Lake maps, what are they you ask, well there are two types; most anglers refer to them as the Hot Spot map and the Topographical. These route finders are different; the Topo outlines more in detail where as the Hot Spot map displays the best fishing locations. Vegetation areas - Irregular contours -Shallow water close to deep water areas - Points and point drops are main issues to look for when it comes to locating bass on any given waters. To become as popular as the sport it self then, you have to think like the fish. I know this may sound insane, but you have to choose a quiet part of the stream or lake away from jet skis, kiddies paddling or playful dogs when fishing for bass. Any excitement may upset the apple cart. If you were the fish would you stick around with all the commotion above water?

About the author: Wade in and cast that rod to be the envy of all other anglers with your catch http://www.bassfishingskills.com. Another fine relaxing pastime is gardening http://www.watergardens.webinputbiz.com

From Game Fishing to Fly Fishing in Tanzania

Author: Ian Williamson

The deep waters of the Indian Ocean along Tanzania's coast are rich in big-game fish. Deep sea fishing in the Indian Ocean's waters from August to November provides really good sport for the big Yellowfin Tuna, one of the strongest fish in the area. The big Blue Marlin and a number of Striped and Black Marlin are also found, as well as sailfish, king fish, dorado, sharks, barracuda and many other IGFA species. The waters of Tanzania are only just beginning to gain the world-wide fame which means these waters are less populated with boats and fishing is at its most pristine. Deep sea fishing in Tanzania is best organized through private companies that specialize in boating and ocean trips, or through lodges and hotel properties that offer day excursions throughout the coast.

The game fishing here is excellent year round with many hotels boats fitted with equipped to the highest international safety standards including the latest technology such as GPS navigational aids, color echo sounder and fishfinder.

Fishing is an economic stronghold of many parts of rural Tanzania and quickly becoming a popular activity for fishing safaris along the country's rivers and lakes. Although it is not allowed in national parks, fly and lake fishing in remote areas outside the parks is possible. It is a rewarding and peaceful way to experience the beauty of African scenery and enjoy the country at a leisurely pace.

Sometimes private companies, tour operators, and lodges can arrange for day trips to nearby lakes and rivers, and longer fishing safaris around the region can be organized with tour operators. In addition to planned day excursions, local fishermen in the region will gladly take you with them on their daily fishing trips and show you the best places to get started.

The freshwater lakes of Tanzania offer fishing opportunities for visitors willing to rough it a little and to venture off the beaten track. Fishing along Lake Victoria affords an opportunity to experience freshwater lake fishing and observe life around the lakes of Tanzania where boatmen will gladly arrange for you to accompany them on their daily trips to net Nile Perch and Tilapia in the waters offshore. Trips to Rubondo Island National Park also offer fishermen a base from which to embark on trips around the Lake Victoria.

Fly fishing along the many rivers and large streams Tanzania is another rewarding experience for sportsmen wanting to experience remote areas at a leisurely pace. During the rainy season, rivers swell with fish and river life, and any time after the short and long rains is a good time to plan a fishing safari. Many adventure tour operators cater for international fisherman looking for the best fishing waters in East Africa, and everything from trolling through flood plains to fly fishing in mountain streams is possible.

About the author: For more information on any of these subjects visit http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk and also for tourism and cultural issues see http://www.betheladventure.co.uk - Using tourism to change lives.

Fishing Memories

Author: Andy Klynstra

I have many great memories of fishing with my father as a small child, my father had a love for fly-fishing and he would take me along to some remote place every time he had the day off and the weather was good. We would usually end up far from home at some very secluded creek, lake or small river in the foothills of Alberta, we would walk cut lines for hours on end exploring the creeks, rivers and tiny lakes that were hidden from all but the most serious of fisherman.

In all my childhood years fishing with my dad I don't ever remember bumping into another fisherman, we did on occasion run into some lonely trapper who would point us to some new hidden fishing spot and off we would go to check it out. We never brought any food, as it was my father's rule, if you want to eat you had better catch something, not very often did we go home hungry. I can still remember listening to the bugling of an Elk and the smell of Rainbow Trout and Artic Grayling roasting slowing over an open fire, the wind rusting through the leaves as we sit together in silence enjoying the day and dreaming of our next trip together.

My dad has been gone many years now and his last wish was to go on one more trip together. I took a few days off work and headed off into the foothills, where his ashes are now spread over some of our most favorite fishing spots, and I can say in all honesty that grown men do cry, and that these were the most emotion filled days of my life. I went from each river and creek spreading his ashes, I would sit down and the memories of that particular spot would come flooding back to me and I could almost smell the fish roasting and my mind could see my dad fishing along the bank. I was gone for 4 days on this trip and I never did cast my fly, but it was one of the best trips I have ever done in my life.

The memories I have of our trips will last forever and hardly a day goes by that at some point my thoughts will wander off and I can see us standing there together, fishing side by side. There has been days in my life where my wife will come into the kitchen and see me sitting there, staring off into space, holding my cup of coffee with a silly grin on my face, and she will ask what's wrong with me and I would tell her nothing is wrong, absolutely nothing.

Now that I have children that go along with me to the same places that my dad has taken me, I can see why my dad was always smiling on these trips. The absolute best part of taking my kids fishing is to sit and listen to them tell their friends about how much fun they have going out with the ""old man"" and you can actually hear the excitement in their voice and see the sparkle in their eyes. Hopefully the memories that I now share with my children are the memories that they will have forever, and someday when I am no longer on this earth, they will be sitting back with their cup of coffee, a silly grin on their face staring off into space.

About the author: Andy Klynstra works for Oil-Net.Com providing professionals in the global oil and gas industry with the information, products, and services they need

Tips for smallmouth bass fishing in Ontario Canada

Author: Jim Hutton

Smallmouth bass can be found in Ontario's Great Lakes as well as the glacial lakes of the Canadian Shield and in a number of rivers, creeks, and lakes in this beautiful Canadian province.

Largemouth bass are commonly found in warmer bodies of water with shallow cover, usually comprised of fallen timber and weeds or stone outcrops. Some of the lakes with mixed habitat result in the largemouth region intersecting and co-mingling with that of smallmouth, making for a variety of fishing opportunities.

In Ontario, smallmouth bass fishing success is usually optimised in more open water, where you can utilize light to medium-action six to ten pound test lines and normally a six foot spinning rod. The fly fisherman will also find smallmouth bass eager to attack top-water poppers or minnow-shaped ribbons in a shallow water setting.

During the Canadian summer, deep underwater points, submerged islands, rocky shoals and weed bed edges are the prime locations to snag these agile and spectacular fighting species of bass. Ontario smallmouth bass fishing is somewhat unique when compared to other bass fishing settings. In the rugged Northern Ontario lakes and rivers where some of the best medal smallmouth bass fishing can be experienced, smallmouths favor the unsteady clear lakes with little plant life and congregate in shoreline rocks and points. But don't limit your fishing to the shoreline as some of the prize catches can be had in the deeper water.

If you really want to experience the great remote areas you can charter with Wilderness Air and fly in to your own exclusive lake. You can bunk in a deluxe outpost cabin, which are very well maintained and comfortable. Wilderness Air charters is one of the best ways to experience the Ontario smallmouth bass fishing challenge!

Smallmouth bass derived their name from the anotomical fact that the rear end of the lower jaw does not extend past the eye, while the lower part of the jaw of a largemouth does. There is also a low notch linking the dorsal fins to the body that resembles a series of dark broken bars.

The smallmouth bass typically matures between the ages of roughly two and four years and often has a life span of over ten years. On a light line, the Ontario smallmouth bass is a fierce competitor and pound for pound one of the best battles in Canadian angling. First time bass fishermen are always shocked by the dramatic and frequent jumps coupled with the powerful ability to dive quickly to awesome depths. That's how bass fishing becomes a habit and compulsion that is hard to give up and why bass fishermen keep migrating back to Ontario for return visits. After battling one of these determined creatures the average fisherman is always surprised to find that the average length for a smallmouth ranges between only ten and about twenty inches. The current Canadian record for the biggest smallmouth bass caught in Ontario is a little over ten pounds.

In terms of the better types of lures to use, crawling spinnerbaits or retrieving shallow-running crankbaits along the sub-merged weed patches are very effective. Both species of bass found in in deeper water are attracted to diving crankbaits. Largemouth tecniques employed in most other locations are also effective in Ontario. Tactics vary from flip-and-pitch styles used in the shallow weed beds, docks, and stumps, to the exciting top-water stroke on jerkbaits, poppers, and hovering plastic worms.

If you have never fished for smallmouth in Ontario there are a few points to remember.

Keep in mind that Ontario smallmouth bass fishing is a little different from the the largemouth bass experience. If you are used to fishing largemouth primarily in weed beds, you will find the smallmouth bass would rather hide out where the rock ledges drop suddenly. The popular baits are crawfish, minnow, leeches and hellgrammites. You will likely have success using everything that resembles a minnow such as plastic worms or flag flies.

Also when fishing for Ontario smallmouth bass you will usually find schools of fish about the same size so if you are not satisfied with the size of fish taken from a given location you should probably move on to a fresh spot. If you' are releasing live bait from your boat use as many lines as is permissible.

The season from the middle of June through to the fall is the best time to plan your trip to Ontario. In the early part of the season the smallmouths are often found on the shallower beds, and by fall they are found in the 10 to 20 foot deeper waters. At that time you should group rattletraps, cranks and jigs, and float a marker buoy to mark the school area.

Try it once and I guarantee you will be telling your friends and planning a return trip next season to Ontario Canada.

Learn more about the bass fishing experience at:

Bass Fishing Article Library

About the author: Jim Hutton is an avid bass fishing enthusiast and writes on the topic at:

Bass Fishing Article Library

The sport fisherman's dream: Alaska salmon fishing

Author: Ron Richards

Alaska is home to the biggest sport caught King Salmon ever. Weighing in at 97 lbs. 4 oz., this magnificent specimen taken from the Kenai River is what Alaska salmon fishing dreams are made of. For this reason, anglers from far and wide are lured to Alaska in hopes of bringing home their own fishing legends.

The frigid, crystal clear waters of the Kenai River are home to numerous species of trophy fish including salmon, Rainbow Trout and Char. At the height of a red salmon run, these fish are so bountiful that all one has to do is gaze down into the clear waters to see numerous sport fish making their way through. In fact, the salmon are so plentiful that one of the great Alaska legends says that the salmon runs so thick you can walk across their backs.

With all of this bounty, it is no wonder that Alaska has become the prime destination for anglers, both novice and seasoned. Accommodating the flood of anxious fisherman during the peak Alaska fishing season (peak season runs from June to August), has led to the establishment of fishing lodges and guided fishing tours with the primary goal of giving guests the fishing vacation of their dreams. Many of these establishments offer lush, wilderness accommodations that are within feet of prime fishing spots. No worry of these spots being crowded though. Situated on private property, many lodges are let out to only one group at a time which means that you and your buddies or family will be the only fishermen for miles around. And many of these prime spots are only accessible by boat or plane. There are no nearby residents and no access roads. Now that is a vacation!

You can fish clear waters loaded with all kinds of salmon including King Salmon (Chinook), Silver Salmon (Coho), Red Salmon (Sockeye), Chum Salmon (Dog) and Pink Salmon (Humpies) to your heart's content. Amazingly, it is estimated that a catch of 10 to 20 salmon per day is not uncommon on some parts of the Kenai River. You'll only be able to keep your limit, of course, but you can catch and release fish till you're too tired to fish. Always check local regulations and make sure you have a fishing license.

Are you going to be visiting Alaska and would like to do a little salmon fishing but do not want to dedicate an entire week to the sport? Maybe a one-day charter complete with a guided tour would be perfect for you. On these tours, experienced and knowledgeable guides direct you to unbelievable fishing spots on the Kenai or one of many other Rivers and creeks in Alaska . Once there, they help you through every step of the way to ensure that your Alaska salmon fishing experience is unforgettable.

Interested? Sure you are. Why not take some time to see what an Alaska salmon fishing vacation could have in store for you. Have fun!

About the author: Ron Richards is a 39 year Alaska resident and enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, and sharing the great state of Alaska with others. Learn more about Alaska and cruises to Alaska at http://findanalaskacruise.com.

Fly Fishing Accessories - Hanging Stuff Around Your Chest

Author: Rick Chapo

If you are going fly fishing, you need to have your critical gear with you while wading and casting. One of the critical pieces of equipment is your vest.

Fly Fishing Accessories - Hanging Stuff Around Your Chest

Construction workers have tool belts to hold everything they need while working. Fly fishing anglers have the same thing in the vest. They hold your tools of the fly fishing trade. Without them, you will be endlessly hunting for flies, repellant, grapplers and so on.

This necessary fly fishing clothing comes in a variety of styles. Old school vests are the best in my opinion. They fit and look like regular clothing vests, but are made with mesh pockets and water proofing material. I find they are perfect for holding the necessary fly fishing gear. They are also good because the distribute the weight of your junk...err, gear across your shoulders and back. Any fly fishing gear shop should have them.

Being a consumer society, more than a few companies have come up with advancements in ways to carry around your gear. Typically, they come in the form of modular systems hanging over the shoulder. They look like travel fannypacks hanging off the front of each shoulder. Depending on the brand, they may have a rear or front fanny pack and even both. Some anglers love these more modern gear accessories. Personally, I find them ungainly and annoying, but to each their own. I strongly suggest you fit yourself with one of these new systems before committing to buy them.

When considering how you will hold your stuff, you should give a good bit of thought to what you want it to hold. Personally, I want mine to hold sunscreen for my bald head, insect repellent, clippers, forceps, a poncho for rain, my car keys, line and, of course, flies. I don't like hauling my stuff up and down the shore, so I tend to load up like a Sherpa. You might prefer a less demanding approach. The point is to figure out what is best for you and then buy a version that meets your needs.

If you are going to get serious about angling, you will need to a way to lug your stuff around with you. Figure out what you want to put in yours and then make your selection.

About the author: Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of writing journals for fly fishing. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more about fly fishing and the great outdoors .

Halibut: Alaska Halibut Fishing For Barn Door Sized Fish

Author: James Zeller

Standing on deck allowing the wave action to bounce your weighted herring or plastic lure off the bottom a hundred or more feet below is called ringing the dinner bell. Halibut will travel hundreds of yards to investigate the thumping of your lead lure as it will swallow the noisy lure...

The recognized tug, tug, then a strong pull begins the underwater rodeo. The heavy one pound lead nose on a split tail white scampi bounces off the ocean floor actually calling the halibut to the lure. At 200 foot deep the ocean is totally dark. But a white lure seems to be the best color for halibut. A 20-pound ""chicken"" halibut fights likes a 60-pound salmon. The huge flat surface is added resistance teamed with muscle for a fish that is determined to stay on the bottom. The normal is three trips to the surface and two trips back to the bottom before you can land a 40-50 pound halibut.

Just as the halibut nears the surface where a net or gaff awaits, all that muscle turns the fish toward the bottom and the line screams off the reel. The Alaska halibut will not stop until it reaches the bottom again. Now you know what you have and you pray your equipment stays together.

Captain Jerry threw out the anchor on the lee side of a spit in 150 foot of water. The tide was just beginning to come in, the ""Dancer"" was bobbing as the tide began to race back in. With 18-foot tides, a lot of water is displaced every 12 hours. The sandy bottom was ideal for halibut to wait for the tide to bring in the next meal. The sound of the anchor hitting the bottom had rang the dinner bell. The 55-foot cabin cruiser had pulled the slack out of the anchor chain and lined out facing into the incoming tide.

Dan dropped his one-pound lead nose white scampi lure over the side and waited for the reel to unspool. The foot long plastic lure hit the bottom with a thump. The slack was taken out of the spider wire line so the lure could be bounced on the bottom to create an underwater thump that seems to lure halibut from hundreds of yards away. Alaska halibut fishing had always been a dream, too far away to even imagine. From the day of decision it had been over 11 months of planning, preparing and dreaming for this day of fishing for halibut off Prince of Wales Island. A minute had passed then 5 minutes; Dan was thinking ""the bite"" hadn't started yet. Then it happened. Small yank, yank then he set the hook. Dan had caught several ""chickens"" so he knew it was a halibut. Suddenly the short stubby deep-sea pole formed a ""U"" and Dan began to lift the rod and reel down. The familiar yank, yank, yank as the fish refused to leave the bottom did not deter the stout built 6' 1"", 30 year old as muscle warred with muscle until the cry was heard from the skipper on the flying deck, ""my God the boy has hooked a keeper!"" The fish looked slightly greenish brown and appeared to be gliding at an angle towards the boat but 6 to 8 feet under the surface. At 3 feet from the surface the addled fish saw the boat, bright sunshine and an excited angler all at once and did an about face heading back to the bottom. The Penn reel screamed as every bearing surface and brake rebelled as the 5 foot behemoth slipped out of sight. That foray had taken 20 minutes, Dan called for help. 6' 4"" brother Paul with arms as big as a man's thighs said ""let me have that!""

In the April Alaska cool, beads of sweat poured down Paul's face, the yank, yank, yank, reel up and scream down had taken its toll. Weakly he said ""I'm gonna need a break!"" Dan grabbed the short stubby ""U"" shaped pole and began to reel. Paul had lasted exactly twenty minutes only to have a brief glimpse of a shadowed recluse before the line screamed and the halibut returned to the deep.

The fishing pole had fibers that were releasing long ways on the rod, the famous reel was making a strange squeaking sound as it reeled up and a disturbing grinding sound as the break squealed off line. The halibut was coming up but Dan gave out in 10 minutes. Paul grabbed the rod and manhandled the rod, fish and reel. 10 minutes later he hollered ""it should have been to the top by now, what is happening?"" The brake on the reel had completely failed and as the line was reeled in the fish took back at its' leisure. Dan took the next watch. Within 5 minutes Dan yelled, ""I see color!"" Captain Jerry was standing on the bow with a 22 rifle. Just as the halibut broke the surface Captain Jerry fired and dispatched the 124-pound giant halibut.

Alaska allows the dispatching of large halibut on the surface due to the tremendous power a halibut has after coming on board. These fish have been known to break the fisherman's arms and legs contributing to several deaths by the flailing powerful tails.

Alaska halibut fishing doesn't get any better. From a ""chicken"" to a keeper the thrill is always the same. It starts with the same question ""Have I hooked the bottom?""

About the author: Jim Zeller writes for numerous outdoor blogs and websites. Check out his favorite online Fishing Forum or his choice for the World's Largest Fishing Directory

Fly Fishing Heaven In Montana

Author: Rick Chapo

You can find good spots for fly fishing in most states, but some are more epic than others. Allow me to introduce you to heaven on earth for anglers.

Fly Fishing Heaven In Montana

Montana is an incredibly beautiful state. It is located on the Canadian border between Wyoming and the Dakotas. It is the fourth largest state with over 145,000 square miles. The central and eastern sections of the state are plains, while the west contains the northern Rocky Mountains. Major rivers include the Yellowstone, Madison, Missouri and Flathead. Montana also has the shortest river in the world, the Roe, which is 201 feet long. Just a bit of trivia for you to throw around on your trip!

The Yellowstone is a tributary of the Missouri River. It is an excellent fly fishing river. The longest undimmed river in the continental United States, the Yellowstone drains the Rocky Mountains in the park of the same name. The river offers excellent trout fishing up and down practically every area. Cutthroat and brown trout are plentiful and active. Rainbows are less so, but still common. The Yellowstone is mostly a no-kill river, so don't plan on dinner. The Lamar, Soda Butte and Slough Creek tributaries are easily waded and not excessively challenging. Although it may get you in trouble with your mother, the Caddis Fly hatch on Mother's day is legendary.

When it comes to fly fishing in the states, no river is more legendary than the Madison. For years, nearly every Montana trip started and stopped with a visit to the Madison. In the early 90s, however, the fish in the river were devastated by whirling disease. The disease was accidentally created in fish hatcheries in Europe and spread across the globe. The criminal element is a parasite that infects fish and causes neurological disease. The fish tend to swim in circles, thus giving the disease its name. Fortunately, the fish in the Madison have been on the rebound for the last five years or so. The last three years have seen a major rebound, which means the legendary Madison should be a high on your list.

The Madison is a round rock bottom river and can be slippery. The current isn't excessive and you can wade most of it without problem. Browns, Cutthroats, Rainbows and Graylings are the prominent fish. The area below Holter Dam is highly recommended by many, but you need to be an accomplished caster to have a good time. Hatches start in April and run through the middle of September. The Salmon Fly hatch in late June is the best, but you really can't go wrong.

As the weather starts to warm up, it is time to start thinking about breaking out the rods and thinking about potential trips. Montana should be at the top of your list.

About the author: Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of writing journals for fly fishing. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more about fly fishing and the great outdoors .

Kayak Fishing vs Canoe Fishing

Author: Scott Locorini

With the recent explosion of kayak fishing you might be thinking that it's about time to get rid of the old canoe and try one of those new fan-dangled kayak contraptions. Everyone else is doing it, so why not you?

There are pros and cons to each craft, and ultimately only you can decide what is best for you. But here are some things to consider when making the decision:

* Cold water vs. warm water: Most (but not all) of the new fishing kayaks are of the ""sit on top"" variety. This means that the chances of getting wet from splashing, waves, boat wakes and flopping fish are very real. Not a big deal if you always fish in 70 degree water, but a potential concern if you fish right after ice out in the Adirondacks like I do! If fishing out of a kayak, many northern kayak fishermen opt for sit inside kayaks, or they wear clothing that will keep them dry when fishing from their sit on top. * Windage: Canoes are notorious for being hard to control on windy days. This is due to the amount of freeboard (how much canoe sits above the waterline). If there is a lot of boat above the waterline, it is very easy for the wind to catch hold and take control. Kayaks ordinarily have much less material above the waterline and are therefore not as susceptible to the wind. * Paddle ease: ""Kayaks are easier to paddle than canoes!"" This is a very common statement heard nowadays. Yes, it's probably true that it's easier for most folks to hop in a kayak and make it go in a relatively straight line with little practice. However, a well designed solo canoe will do the same with a little practice or instruction, and it can even be paddled with a two-bladed kayak paddle. * Carrying capacities: To state the obvious: a canoe holds more gear than a kayak, and with a canoe you can just toss your gear inside (which doesn't work for a kayak). With a sit inside kayak, gear gets stored inside the boat, and in some boats it has to fit through the hatch opening. Sit on top kayaks for fishing have specified holders for your gear, which means you can't just throw it on top. But then, you may ask, what if I just want to carry enough gear for a day of fishing? You also have to look at ease of getting your gear. In a canoe I can reach just about anywhere in the boat and grab what I need. In a sit on top kayak I can rig it so that most of what I'll need is within reach. But with a sit inside kayak you're going to have limited or no access to access to your gear, especially if it's closed off under your hatches. * Carrying ease: If you're carrying the boat from your car to the water this is often not that big an issue. However, if you're carrying your craft for any distance, it is. You can purchase wheels for both canoes and kayaks that strap to the boat, so you can roll it along a trail or road. But if the trail you use to get to your favorite spot is full of rocks, bumps, and holes, wheels won't work and you will have to carry your boat in. Canoes have been portaged for hundreds of years in wilderness areas with the aid of a neck thwart. You just put the canoe over your head and rest the thwart on your shoulders and away you go. Removable neck thwarts can also be purchased for sit inside kayaks, but remember that the kayak deck and possible narrow-ness of the kayak may make it more difficult to carry and balance. Sit on top kayaks are ordinarily designed to be carried by two people (one at each end), and they can not be carried over your head for any distance. * Weight: I'm constantly hearing that kayaks are lighter than canoes. When I ask folks what kind of canoe they have paddled in the past, most of them say some kind of old heavy aluminum canoe. Nowadays, there are many new materials (plastic, Royalex, Kevlar, etc.) on the market for both canoes and kayaks, and many canoes have become lighter than kayaks. Material will greatly affect weight, durability, and price. * Stability: As a general rule, neither canoes nor kayaks are implicitly more stable. A lot of folks say that because you sit basically on the floor of a kayak your center of gravity is lower and therefore more stable. But who says that you can't sit or kneel on the floor of a canoe, as it was done for centuries before? Generally speaking, for any craft, longer and skinnier means faster and less stable, while shorter and wider means slower but more stable.

Solo canoes, tandem canoes, touring kayaks, recreational kayaks, sit inside kayaks, sit on top kayaks, plastic, fiberglass, Royalex, Kevlar - there are so many options available now that just weren't around ten years ago. This means deciding which boat you're going to purchase can become tricky and confusing. Here are some pointers that might make the process a little less confusing.

1. You will need to figure out what your individual needs are based on your primary use for the boat. If you want a boat primarily for expedition trips (paddling camping trips) that you might occasionally use for fishing, your needs are going to be much different from someone who wants a boat just for fishing. Different uses will translate into different boats or boat types. 2. Next give yourself enough time to research all of the different boats and materials that are now available, and get an idea about their prices. There are various ways you can do this: several paddling magazines publish buyers' guides every year, and a lot of information can also be found on the internet (online forums and online reviews are two of the best ways to get information from folks who have the same interests as you). 3. Once you have some idea of what you want and a price range, get out and test paddle as many boats as possible. If you're not an experienced paddler, it will be difficult for you to tell what boat ""paddles better."" But you will be able to tell what boats are comfortable to sit in, easier for you to get in and out of, and what boats you can lift by yourself. When test paddling ask for feedback from the salesperson, and ask them what they fish out of and why.

Try and gather as much information as possible before making your purchase. Do your homework! There are a lot of used boats on the market because someone didn't do theirs.

About the author: Scott Locorini is the owner and founder of Adirondack Exposure, located in the Adirondack Mountains or New York State. He guides fishing clients using canoes and kayaks in the Adirondacks as well as the Gulf Coast of Florida. More can be find out at his website http://www.adirondackexposure.com .

The Zen of Fishing

Author: Allen Bohart

One of the best ways to relieve stress is to take up a hobby. This is effective because it allows one to take his/her mind off the things that are stressing them such as work, family, and other life situations. Fishing is an outstanding hobby to take up if your aim is to relax and enjoy life a little.

Getting Started

Fishing gear can cost anywhere between $10 and $10,000. A novice can keep expenses down by buying combination outfits that include a rod and reel, line and lures. These are available at sporting good stores, tackle shops and online. A good resource for finding these items can be found at http://www.thefishingbobber.com.

The number choices available in fishing gear can be bewildering and intimidating. In just starting out, keep it simple. A spinning reel is versatile, easy to use and fun to cast. A baitcaster is mechanically different, but serves similar functions. With both types of reels, you can fish with artificial baits called spinners, spoons, and plugs, as well as with natural baits such as worms. Fly rods and reels used with artificial ""flies"" that mimic insects on which fish prey, present anglers with more of a challenge because of the greater difficulty of casting the line.

Remember, the measure of how successful a person is in fishing is whether they have a good time. The idea is to relax, and not necessarily to catch a whole bunch of fish. Actually catching fish, in fact, is a bonus and not an end in and of itself, at least not for the casual fisherman. According to the American Sportfishing Association, the most common reason people fish is to relax.

Imagine yourself out on the dock of a lake far from civilization with nobody around except you and the fish. It's early in the morning and the mist is still rising over the water and you can still see your breath in the air. There is no responsibility, no noise of traffic, no smell of pollution, and no boss to answer to for the time that you are escaping to your new hobby, fishing. Now is that a relaxing vision, or what? That, my friend, is the Zen of Fishing.

About the author: Allen Bohart is a fishing fan and enthusiastic writer for about any subject that interests him. He is also co-owner of The Fishing Bobber , a site for and about fishing enthusiasts of all levels.

Getting A Line On Bass Fishing

Author: Niall Pesci

Bass fishing offers a wide range of ability and challenge for the beginner and the professional. There are several fish in the species line including bluegills, spotted bass, largemouth and rock bass. These are warm water bass. Others such as striped bass, white bass and white perch are a temperate bass. If you are heading out to catch some bass, your first and most important goal is to know where to find them.

Where You Have To Look For Bass

There are several locations that they like to call home. For one, look in your lakes. You can find a wide range of them in shallow lakes in the south. This is where you are likely to find your largemouth bass. Here, look in the weeds and in the reeds. But, you are likely not to find too many here. They enjoy eating algae and plankton which is not readily available in many lakes. Instead, look to the rivers. The water temperatures and the oxygen levels are just right in many rivers for the bass. You'll need to look just outside the current's direct flow. Look on the downstream side of rocks and fallen trees as this is where they enjoy hiding. To catch them, do some bottom and surface fishing.

A great place to find your bass is to look in streams. Here, you will find smallmouth bass in the cooler water of the streams especially just below the rapids. Look in the hiding places such as where erosion has made holes. Look where there are rocks or fallen limbs as well. Look below a dam especially on a hot day. You'll find that they are never in direct current flow. Also, take a look at ponds. These are a source for smaller bass especially near the shore near fallen logs. Of course, look in the reeds. You can fish any of these locations at night for good results too.

Remember that bass are looking for prime conditions and will search them out. They are looking for just the right water temperature and water level. They will seek out locations with good food supply and the right sunlight.

As for bait, you'll want to use a wide range of choices. In still fishing, go with night crawlers, insects and minnows. For bait casting and spinning, use artificial products, trolling with live bait or you can even fly fish for them. For lures, make sure to get at least a five and a half to seven foot rod and your line should be about six to ten pound test. For fly fishing, go with seven to nine feet in rod with a fast taper. You will also need a single action reel that has floating #7 to #9 line with a six to eight pound leader.

If you can, take someone skilled at bass fishing with you your first time out. You are likely to learn a lot. Talk to your local bait shop dealer to learn what bait will work well for your bass. Pick a variety of locations to fish and you'll find success.

About the author: Niall Pesci is a fisherman, always looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find a fish finder or other GPS and Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. Copyright Fish-Finder-Review.com

Fishing Forum: The Fishing Connection That Enlightens Pros And The Novice

Author: James Zeller

Why do fishermen catch fish and I come home empty handed? What do the fishing guides do to help insure success for a paying client? Fishing a new location while on vacation can be very difficult. Locations, baits, and gear are number one questions. Time of year affects fishing success. These questions are but a few answered at the fisherman's second most favorite fishing destination...

Capt. Fisherall has made his weekly announcements on the fishing forum with little to no complaints. His reports always give the daily fishing conditions, including the fish caught and the bait and tackle used. Although he doesn't give away his favorite GPS fishing locations, a fisherman could emulate his prescription and expect moderate success. Capt. Fisherall usually spices his electronic exchange up with a good ole fishing story and ends with an invitation to ""Come fish on the USS We Use Tourist For Bait"". The fishing forum Webmaster doesn't see any harm done, and Capt. Fisherall is welcomed and expected each week. Some newbie forum users chastise the exploitation of their chat sanctum while the Pros cheer him on and take notes furiously.

A totally new visitor pops a question ""Can anyone tell me how to catch trout?"" Well the forum has its' seasoned granddads and smart-alecks who gently guide this fishing prospect through the paces of landing his first fish. The fishing forum has a general store atmosphere where the fire is warm all winter and the chin chatter is thin while the fisherman plies his art.

A new carp bait recipe has surfaced and a bass boat and trailer needs a new home, desperately. Another fishing video is for sale.

Check out the wintertime catfish fishing techniques on Cedar Lake.

The third week of May the lake is ""turning over"" and the sand bass are literally jumping into the boat chasing shad!

Coho are showing up just a mile off Noyes Island.

If the subject is of interest to fishermen it is listed on the fishing forum. The mix is: fishing reports, classifieds, bulletin board, how to tutors, and a camaraderie that is what makes fishermen around the world immune the language barriers.

The fishing forum has its' regulars like Capt. Fisherall, fishing professionals, novices and granddads all with a mindset to learn as much as they teach. The best unbiased fishing gear reviews are recorded without fanfare or solicitation on the fishing forum. New ways to tie knots and different types of fishing line together are shared without more than a ""thank you.""

The fishing family gathered at the fishing forum are well known to each other by their hand chosen ""handles"". Capt. Fisherall could actually be Capt. Jerry, and the USS Dancer is probably the real name of the USS We Use Tourist For Bait, or not...

The fishing forum buddies may not ever meet on the same streambed or pass each other on the starboard side, but on a regular basis they hail each other on their second most favorite fishing spot, ... the fishing forum!

About the author: Jim Zeller writes for numerous blogs and websites. Check out his favorite online Fishing Forum or his choice for the World's Largest Fishing Directory

Tips for Successful Family Deep Sea Fishing Deep Sea Fishing - A Fun & Safe Family Outing

Author: Steven and Michael Perkins

© 2006, All Rights Reserved

Sunshine, crashing waves and hands-on activities. These are three things every kid loves. That's what makes deep sea fishing the perfect family outing. Especially during summer months when children can get bored, deep sea fishing makes for a wonderful time of togetherness, education and excitement.

Before you venture onto any vessel, you'll want to run through the checklist below. Taking time to prepare before launching into the deep blue sea can ensure your trip will be a huge success.

Safety

No outing can be truly fun for everyone unless it is also safe. There are steps you can take to ensure you and your family will have a day of adventure as well as safety. Be sure to ask the captain of the boat about the following:

_____ Life Preservers - Make sure life preservers on the boat are current. Preservers need to be within easy reach. The boat should have a variety of life preservers in different sizes to fit both adults and children.

_____ Coast Guard Inspection - You'll want a fishing vessel that is big and seaworthy, and that has passed all necessary inspections. Look for a U.S. Coast Guard safety inspection sticker to be sure. Also check for a radio and emergency beacon onboard.

_____ CPR - The crew aboard your deep-sea fishing boat should be CPR and first aid trained.

_____ Sun Protection - The sun gets very intense over water. In fact, you get 180% exposure to the sun while on the water as opposed to on land. (100% direct sun exposure plus 80% exposure from water reflection.) You'll want to pack sunscreen as well as hats and sunglasses.

Fishing

Your fishing experience will be different depending on which area of the U.S. you are in. Water temperature, local weather and current surface temperatures can all play a role in the success of your trip. While these elements may be out of your control, there are other elements you need to verify before casting off.

_____ Experience - Your captain and crew should have plenty of experience fishing in the local waters. They should be comfortable navigating the area and should be able to find sweet spots where fish commonly gather.

_____ Equipment - The boat you choose to sail on should be outfitted with the latest fish-finding electronics to help ensure you get what you came for.

_____ Bait - Bait used while fishing should be indigenous to the area. Fish can be finicky about what they will and will not eat.

_____ Unwanted Transfer - Be sure to wash your hands (or have the crew wash their hands) after applying sunscreen, aftershave or other scented lotions. The smell (and taste) can transfer to the bait causing the fish to stop biting.

Kids

When deep sea fishing with kids, special considerations come into play. Ask your crew about the following if you plan to bring young children onboard.

_____ Family Friendly - Is this a family friendly ship? Is language controlled? Are alcoholic beverages served? Is smoking allowed?

_____ Stories - When the fish aren't biting, things might become quiet. Will the crew tell stories about the area, share educational information, teach knot tying or allow kids to steer the boat?

_____ Naps - Is there a bench or cot where small children can lie down if they get tired?

Everyone

To ensure the enjoyment of the trip for each family member, you'll want to:

_____ Bring Plenty of Snacks and Drinks - Even though the boat may provide chips or sodas, they may be limited in their variety. Pack your child's favorite snacks and juices plus plenty of water. You'll need to stay hydrated while out in the sun.

_____ Get a Good Night's Sleep - Deep sea fishing is an absolute blast! It can be tiring, however, especially for younger children. Be sure to get a good night's sleep before venturing out.

_____ Take Dramamine - If you are prone to seasickness, or don't know if you will become seasick, take Dramamine or Bonine the night before and the morning of your trip just to be on the safe side.

_____ Bring Your Camera! This will be a day that memories are made of. You'll want to capture every moment for your photo albums. Be sure to bring plenty of film and/or an extra battery.

When you've checked off everything on your list, you'll be ready for a wonderful day filled with family fun and adventure. With the right captain at the helm, your deep-sea fishing journey will soon become a family tradition you'll look forward to year after year.

About the author: Steven and Michael Perkins are co-captains of The Nor'easter, a 42' vessel dedicated to deep sea fishing in Maine . Visit http://www.noreasterfishing.com today for pricing and details on scheduling family charter fishing tours in Maine .

Planning A Family Fishing Vacation

Author: Peggy Davis

Planning a family fishing trip vacation doesn't have to be fraught with a lot of stress. We all know how much time and effort goes into planning any kind of trip that includes the whole family. Why not purchase a packaged fishing trip that includes nearly everything? When you plan a trip for fishing it can often take hours even days to work through all the details. I ended up purchasing a package that had everything in it. All I had to do was make sure my son's medications were packed and all the other ""special"" items the family needs, and we were off. From now on, I let the business owner handle all the arrangements and we get in the car or on the plane. Packages can be complete in that they offer transportation, lodging, fishing equipment and meals. Many have several types of packages that are set up by the amount of days you want to be there to a pricing table that can help you decide what you can afford. Packages often can include any or all of the accommodations and amenities you want but not always. Here are some examples of what packages may or may not offer. Fishing packages can be for a half-day or full day. They can be tailored for fishing trips lasting up to seven days and more. Some may include lodging and meals. Don't forget that the business owner knows his area well. He or she can advise you on other activities and events for the family. Many times my children don't want to go fishing all day everyday so I always find out what else there is to do. I have found tours to historic sites, movie theatres and special children's events at the location near where we were fishing. Most guides' wives even arranged transportation for our three children to go to another nearby town to watch wildlife. Be sure to ask what kind of rates, lodging and meals can be provided for your size of family. When choosing a fishing vacation, no matter where it is, ask about the owner's feelings about children. Most are in the business of providing the ultimate fishing vacations and love children of all ages. If your child or your spouse has never been fishing, a package with an experienced owner/guide will make it a more memorable experience. A guide will also know the ""fishing holes"". The chance that your first family fishing vacation will be successful (catching lots of fish) is almost a certainty. Your package and guide will be able to get you to the right fishing spots at the best times. Most important, check the owner and his or her business reputation. Call them and ask all the questions you want answered. You will learn a lot from one phone call. Every fishing trip I have been on has always been fun and exciting because I purchased a package, researched the business owner and made sure I understood all the details in the package. Your family will have a wonderful memory and that's what having a family is all about.

About the author: This article was written by Peggy Davis sponsored by http://www.alaskafishon.com/. Alaska Fish On is a licensed and registered Kenai river fishing guide service providing affordable packages for the novice or experienced fisher. Reproductions of this article are encouraged but must include a link pointing back to http://www.alaskafishon.com/.

Improve Your Bass Fishing

Author: ian Williamson

Bass fishing is a very sought after sport in the United States and many other countries like Australia and Canada. Many tournaments are held throughout the year and this has made bass fishing a very lucrative industry.

Although bass is an edible fish, sport anglers do not treat them as food. During a fishing tournament, bass are caught, weighted and then release back into the water. If the bass are stressed, they are placed in a holding tank for treatment and then released back into the water right after treatment is completed.

There are many factors that can affect your performance as a professional bass fishing angler. First, you need to understand the biology and behaviour of the bass that you want to catch. Knowing how bass behave in different water and temperature environments, their habitats and many other factors can affect your fishing outcome.

For example, bass fish are pretty sluggish in extremely hot or cold water. They usually do not fight very hard when they are caught. However, they feed and grow rapidly when the temperature is moderate and will put up a hard fight if they are caught.

Bass also prefer to stay in covered areas and usually prey on smaller fish. This should give you an idea of where to look as well as what lures to use when bass fishing.

Besides learning about the bass fish, you need to understand and maximize the use of your fishing equipment. The type of rods, reels, lines and lures to use will depend on the type of bass fish you are expecting to catch. You certainly do not want your equipment to fail at the moment when a fish bites.

In a fishing tournament, you seldom stay in the same spot for a long period of time. If you are not having great result in one spot, you will have to quickly look for another spot to improve your catch. Your ability to read a fishing map quickly and accurately will help in your chance of locating a good fishing location.

A good piece of advice would be to visit the angler supply store near the tournament venue. You can pick up a few useful tips from the store owners on the potential spots for landing a big catch.

Regardless if you are a sport or recreational angler, you need to improve your fishing techniques and knowledge on a regular basis. Always seek out other successful bass fish anglers to exchange ideas and pointers. Most successful anglers love to share their knowledge.

You can also go online to visit bass fishing forums and make new friends. You will likely meet anglers from around the world which will further broaden your bass fishing knowledge.

By taking all the above factors into account, you can make every fishing experience enjoyable and fruitful.

About the author: For more Fishing Articles by Ian Williamson please visit http://www.real-articles.com/Category/Fishing/163

Fish Better With The Right Fishing Gear

Author: Hallidae Thomason

There is absolutely nothing more frustrating than spending an entire day fishing without catching any fish. I finally discovered this truth after way too many days spent fishing without results. I never really thought about the fishing gear I was using and how that might affect my results. I thought instead about everything else. I changed sides of a lake or I changed lakes all together. I gave up my small boat for a day and tried fishing from the shore instead. I fished in the morning, at noon, and at night. Now I know that the best thing I could have done was make sure I had the right fishing gear for the task.

If you, like me, do not have much knowledge of fishing gear, the best thing to do is inform yourself. I went straight to an outdoors and recreation store that supplied a wide array of fishing gear and a trained staff that talked me through what I needed. Look for a similar store in your area and stop in when you have some free time. You can also gain information on fishing gear online or in magazines. Use whatever resources you need to, just get informed. The transformation of your fishing career is about to take place with nothing but the purchase of proper fishing gear.

Whether you look for gear online, in a magazine, or you talk to someone in a store, it is best to have a basic knowledge of the area you are going to fish in. You will find that there are different kinds of fishing gear for almost every kind of fishing. Fishing in a lake, a stream, or the ocean will probably alter the kind of fishing gear you need. You will need a different kind of pole, line, hook and bait for each kind of location you explore. It should be easy to find information on specific types of fishing gear that are appropriate for different situations. Try talking to fishing friends you have and see what kind of advice they will lend, though remember that no true fisherman will give away all his secrets!

I used to hate fishing because I always ended up without the very thing I wanted: fish. My days of dreading fishing are long gone now. I took the time to learn more about fishing gear and then I bought the gear I needed most. Each fishing trip I've taken since then has been nothing but productive and full of fish. Get the right fishing gear and you'll be catching more fish than you know what to do with!

About the author: Hallidae Thomason has become an expert fisher since figuring out the best fishing gear to use. Learn how to transform your fishing experience at www.fishinggearnews.info

Fishing in Alaska: Cabin and Boat Rental

Author: Mark Boulder

Sportsmen have been flocking to Alaska in record numbers to take a relaxing vacation doing something they enjoy - fishing. Many of them are discovering that because of the oceans that surround the mainland this northernmost state offers some of the best fishing in the world. Of course when going on an outdoor adventure such as this you can't exactly just stay at the Hilton. Based on the demand of such getaways many companies are beginning to offer comprehensive cabin and boat rentals to satisfy the demand.

Nothing is more relaxing to some people than getting away from it all. For many outdoorsmen and women this getting away from it all involves heading up to Alaska to take part in some of the most plentiful and adventurous fishing in the world. For these brave adventurers it is a chance to hook up with fellow enthusiasts who come from around the world to enjoy the opportunities that abound in this often forgotten about state. Travel agencies and tourism boards for many cities in the region have recently started heavily promoting the outdoor adventures that the region offers and fisherman around the world have responded.

For less than the cost of most vacations to Disneyworld and New York you can truly leave it all behind for a week or more and enjoy the outdoors the way it was meant to be. No Wal-Mart's, no McDonald's, no rush hour traffic. Just fellow adventurers who are eager to show off their tricks and skills and share stories about the ""one that got away"" with anyone who will listen. Combine all that with rustic living (with modern conveniences) and you have the perfect vacation for many people who appreciate the beauty of nature and the outdoors.

About the author: b>Mark Boulder is a writer and internet publisher who likes to write about Alaska Sport Fishing and outdoor issues in general. Check out his sport fishing news and in depth information website sport-fishing-in-alas ka.com .

Bass Fishing - More Fishing Skills By Going That Step Further

Author: Maisy Day

Bass Fishing is becoming just as popular as a day out at the zoo or a picnic in the local park. Family day outings are now involving bass fishing. At this present moment in time Bass fishing is supposedly to be the number one freshwater sport in the USA and anyone who participates in this very self fulfilling sport will proudly tell you why. Approximate figures show that the bass fishing industry is between 65 to 70% higher than most other forms of fresh water fishing.

Over two decades - Bass Fishing has scaled to monetary heights reaching over the million dollar barrier which has now over these years become an industry worth 4.8 Billion dollars. Bass Fishing is on the increase in numbers where the demand is phenomenal among new anglers. What is it about this freshwater sport - well this is an outdoor activity that is very relaxing as well as rewarding when the fish start to bite. Bass fishing can be a hobby taken to a pro level status where tournaments are entered to show off the anglers fishing skills.

Remember what ever sport you engage yourself in - practice makes perfect and that goes for bass fishing also. So the more time you spend on the water - the more knowledge intake on the dos and don`t`s. When angling for bass it is a good idea to have an expert in this field to guide and give you instructions on your first couple of attempts - at least till you get to know the ropes. An experienced bass fisherman can educate you on the techniques, fishing tackle and lure and in some cases enlightens you on how the fish thinks. Believe it or not - it has proven to be successful for many bass fishing enthusiasts.

If competing in tournaments is your goal then remember to learn all the tricks of the trade. Bass Fishing can be very competitive - you need to be in the know to reach pro level. Depending on your dedication and passion towards the sport then why not consider making a career out of bass fishing by teaching other avid anglers what you know. Fishing for bass is for every one of all ages - women worldwide are taking to the waters as well as the kiddies.

It is important that children should never be left unattended or unsupervised at any time. This is an outdoor sport which is enjoyed by people the whole world over and why not when the rewards are so great when the catch is bigger than you anticipated If this sport is to become a serious part of your life where you want to take it to the next level then you need more information under your hat. You need to know the best location, best bass lure/bait and what fishing equipment to use.

By going that step further and checking out Bass Fishing sites online will give your more intimate details on the skills needed for a sport that is spreading like an epidemic the whole world over.

About the author: Wade in and cast that rod to be the envy of all other anglers with your catch Bigger Fish Dont like smelling of fish Body Odour

Fishing In Alaska - A Dream Come True

Author: Niall Pesci

Fishing in Alaska is a dream come true for many an angler. The air and environment is clear and beautiful. The water is sparkling and what lies in that water is what has hundreds of people flocking to the state for the best fishing of their life. It is not unheard of to land a 35 pound King Salmon here and you will be amazed at the fish that are teaming in the waters.

In fact, you can catch that king salmon at up to weights of 50 pounds! You'll also find huge fish including halibut, northern pike, Graylings, shiner perch, sturgeon, herring, and many, many more. Cod, walleye, flounder, crabs and shrimp are just teaming for you.

As for where to find them, you will need to check out the southeast region of Alaska. There are many locations to fish here and you can target just the fish species you are after. This is a warmer winter area of Alaska as well. But, still summers are cool and excellent for getting halibut on the move. Salmon migrate here to spawn and you'll find a wide range of trout here too. Head to the locations between Bristol Bay and Cooper River where you'll find many fish. You can also fish the coastal waters for halibut and ocean fish.

Make sure to check out Lower Cook Inlet. This is a popular location where you will be able to find Dolly Varden, a type of salmon. You'll also find trout too in this area. You can dig for clams or fish for halibut and salmon off the coast. Another excellent location is in the Western and arctic regions. You'll catch your fill of trout, pike, graylings, char and burbot here.

What To Take With You

Of course you will need your rods, freshwater and saltwater depending on where you head. Make sure to take twice as much tackle than you think you'll need. Flies, weights, lures, a net, fishing line of several types, as well as pliers, waders, maps, and a compass are also necessary. Make sure to stock your first aid kit and include enough water in case you can leave the fish! For clothing, don't forget you are in Alaska and you do need warm clothing, a fishing vest, sunglasses, hiking books, bug repellent and sunscreen. Check on getting the right fishing licenses too. Don't forget your camera because these are truly some amazing locations not to mention the size of fish you'll catch!

For bait, take a wide range of live bait. This could be prawns, night crawlers, crayfish, and razor fish. Look for frozen baits too. In artificial, take with you a wide range including lures, flies, streamers, spoons and spinners. Go for natural bit from the area if you can. You'll find plenty of locations to purchase it in the area and of course you can find your own if you like. Don't over bait though.

When heading off to fish in Alaska, it's often wise to take with you a professional or to book a tour. These individuals can help you find the hidden locations where your fish are lurking. And, they can make sure that you see some of the best fish out there. Take the time to check out a few locations online and insure the organization's quality. Then, head to the beautiful Alaskan country to get in some of the best fishing of your life.

About the author: Niall is a keen fisherman looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find fish finders or other GPS/Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

Wooden Fishing Boats - From Traditional Marsh Pirogues To Wide-Bottomed Drift Boats

Author: Rika Susan

So you've inherited that somewhat dubious old wooden fishing boat from your grandpa! You're feeling proud to be the one to carry on the family fishing tradition, but you're also experiencing just a little trepidation at the though of setting out on the wide open expanses of the lake this spring on a boat that has clearly seen better days...

Well, if your newly acquired old wooden fishing boat is looking a little worse for wear, you might do well to remember that wooden boat owners generally accept the fact these kind of boats were not built to last forever.

In fact, some were probably built with the intention that they would be replaced within five or ten years, and not kept going lovingly for decades by well-intentioned descendents of the original owner.

Constant maintenance is probably the key concept here, and you will need to do some serious checking out of the boat's structure before setting out to haul in those prize catches.

Of course, nowadays - with newer wood-based, penetrating epoxy - dry rot has become much less of a problem, but you will still have to keep up the work to keep your boat in shape for the fishing waters.

Apart from the gleaming, grand old dames of yesteryear, contemporary wooden fishing boats are still being built, and you may be surprised at the workmanship and variety available.

You may want to have a look at the beautifully crafted boats such as wide-bottomed drift boats, or the graceful curves of a special viking-type rowing-and-fishing boat.

Some wooden fishing boat builders specialize in traditional Louisiana marsh pirogues and rowing skiffs, and for these you will even be able to find building plans should you be tempted to make a project out of it!

If you just want to have the experience of fishing from a wooden boat on your next fishing trip, you can head out to Ontario, where some fishing resorts have a special wooden fishing boat supplier building them to order.

These beautiful spacious, quiet boats are hand built out of cedar and oak, and equipped with swivel seats, a fishfinder, and all the necessary emergency equipment to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Back to that old lady grandpa used for his outings on the lake: It may be well worth remembering the saying: ""Nothing works on an old boat but the owner""...

For more information visit Fishing-Things.com

About the author: Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

The Most Approved Fishing Recreation is Bass Fishing

Author: John Catanach

Black fish is a North American fish specie we roar Bass Fish. There are different types of bass fish like small mouth bass, large mouth bass, Kentucy bass and lots another types of fish.

In the southern part of the United States of America is where Bass fishing originates. Bass fish was originally sought after for sustenance but consequent turned to become a big time recreation. In the 1950's Bass Fishing became the next most sought after pastime in the States coming from a humble start. There has been drastic changes made in the fishing production becuase of Bass Fishing with regards to development of various fishing gearbox from reels and rods, making of lures and underscore impersonation. Alongside the evolution of electronic boats and modern bass boats bass fishing has changed. Its been great for the Situation because of all the money Bass Fishing brings to them. Billion and heap of dollars are being taken from this sport every year.

Most of the people that engage in the sport of Bass Fishing do not attend bass fish as food. They Bass Fishing as a authentic sport. What they uisually, do is grasp the fishes and release them in sea water afterwards. What they hail this method is ""catch and released"", the BASS (Bass Anglers Sportsmen Society) under the National Competition circuits made this sport. Its not agreeable to catch no more fish because there is a large price. These Dead fishes are not counted as a reckoning. The caught fishes are immediately taken for juxtaposition purposes and released invest in to spa water to be suspended away. If the fishes were stressed or injured, they are placed in a tank for treatments then released back to tap water just after they are good.

Large mouth bass fish was introduced across the world by government wildlife department and sports angler. Japan and South Africa are unbiased two mid the countries who got active programs of bass fish stockings. In fact, Japan, South Africa and Australia are assorted of the countries with multitudinous participants in fishing tournaments held in United States. Australia has its own fresh still water fish professed Australian bass fish that is why they keep their own fishing tournaments. You cannot uncover Largemouth bass fish in Australia. Although Largemouth Bass got features similar to Australian Bass fish, they are still intentional contrastive fishes.

Anglers should know how to base bass. This power be the biggest problem you can happen upon especially if you are new to the sport. Absolutely, learning how to place a bass is requisite for everybody.

There a re many factors to judge if you desire to determine more on how to locate bass. These are the depending.

1 You should discover how to read a map. 2 You ought valuables uncover how to locate for active bass after the dive of the ice-cold fronts and on early spring. 3 You must know how to understand disparate water core. 4 You must take into care that fishing needs sunny water. 5 You must be posted of the normal temperatures where bass fishes usually dwell. 6 You must learn close by the seasonal patterns. 7 You must learn how to locate shape areas. 8 You resources have to locate the vegetation areas.

You also call for to inspect for some key elements so you can locate bass. The following are the key elements you be in want of to find: 1 You be in want of to see for the vegetation areas 2 Take a look at some bumpy contours 3 Be knowledgeable of the superficial water that are close off to deep water areas 4 Locate the point and point of drops 5 Be aware of the conflicting and a number of sort of structures

These are the effects you need to learn about bass fishing.

About the author: The author, John Catanach, has been writing about Bass Fishing for years. If you would like more information on Bass Fishing please visit Bass-Fishing-Infor mation.com

Basic Information For Bass Fishing.

Author: Alison Symons

Since three-forth of the world is composed of bodies of water, it's natural that a great number of people rely on fishing for their livelyhood or just for their recreation needs. There are numerous of fish species swimming under the lakes, seas, ponds, and rivers. Most anglers consider fishing as the delight in their purpose-driven life, a sport, as they say.

Bass fishing, at present, is considered as America's number one freshwater sport, its industry is in fact seventy percent higher in growth compared to other types of fishing activities. Bass is a fish that belongs to the Serranidae family or sea basses and the Centrarchidae or the black basses. This family of perchlike fishes are large and oblong with compressed bodies that dwell in warm and temperate seas throughout the world.

Along the Atlantic coast, black or common sea basses a sluggish bottom fish are found. Its size averages 6 pounds or 2.7 kilograms in weight and 18 inches or 45 centimetres in length. The Pacific Sea basses, on the other hand, are giant fishes with bulky characteristics that reach a weight of 600 pounds or 270 kilograms and a length of 7 feet or 2.1 metres.

There are two things that should be considered in bass fishing, which are, the bass location on the lake or river and bass catching using different techniques, presentations and baits.

In locating bass dwellings, there are lots of different factors that have to be determined like map-reading, how to locate active bass just after cold fronts and during early spring and late fall periods, understanding water depth, water clarity, temperatures, seasonal patterns, locating structure areas and finding their vegetation areas.

In map reading, there are two general types of lake maps that most anglers use. These are the Hot Spot maps that show more fishing spots and the Topographical map which shows more details. Experiment first by taking it on shore and looking for areas where fish are most likely be. The next step would be familiarization.

In locating bass one element that should be considered is the vegetation or the area where they eat, breath and cover themselves. In other words, it is where they could be found to congregate. If there is no vegetation, other elements like irregular contours, shallow water close to deep-water areas, points and point drops and other types of structure can require alternative techniques.

The rest of the necessities are the selection of a few crankbaits. One needs a shallow diver and a deep diver but two colors of each are fine. A natural looking crankbait, one that resembles baitfish and a shocker bright one should be selected. These represent the two extremes, nonetheless are very effective.

The most successful method of catching bass is the crankbait. The throwing and retrieving method can be done with varying speed and its depth can be determined by the speed of the reeling and by the pole.

Bass love colorful lures and they seem to hit them more often. When fishing with these lures, one should always try to make them look good in the water and make the bass come after them. This can be done by making them swim as realistically as possible.

Bumping these lures against objects in the water attracts fish, but the chance of getting the lure stuck might be a risk you don't want to take.

A worm, on the other hand, is a good lure and represents the most edible and tasty meal. Even plastic worms will do.

Before competitions became a part of it, bass fishing was reserved for seasoned anglers and did get much media coverage. It was a recreation mostly practiced in the springtime and mostly early in the mornings and late in the afternoons all over the globe. Now, it has grown tremendously in every way, from the effort to gain knowledge to the technology to the equipment used to get the best results.

For more information visit http://www.bass-expert.com

About the author: The author has a number of hobby sites and likes to share useful articles with like minded folk.

Great Fishing Opportunities In Oscoda!

Author: Rika Susan

Oscoda on the Lake Huron shoreline is a fishing destination not to be missed. It is well known for a range of catches such as lake trout, brown trout, steelhead, pike and salmon.

If fishing season for your favorite fish is around the corner, you wouldn't want to delay planning to make the best of your time in Oscoda.

Many fishing enthusiasts make use of the services of experienced Oscoda charter companies. This makes for fishing in real comfortable style!

Some of the craft available from local Oscada companies with decades of experience will include air conditioners and heated cabins with private restroom and wash facilities.

At peak fishing times, it is best to contact the captain of your preferred charter boat in advance to avoid disappointment!

Whether you plan to use your own boat, make use of a charter or simply intend to fish off the pier, you will find Oscada a welcoming community.

In fact, the locals will tell you that some of the best catches have in the past been made right off the pier at the mouth of that great local river, the AuSable!

An option for fishing in the Oscada area is to take River Road to Cooke Dam, with the AuSable River very close by and great fishing of walleye, bass and pike at the Dam.

If you're staying over at an Oscoda resort, or one of the lodges and guest houses along the AuSable River, you will find that many have river dockage available, with easy access to the AuSable and Lake Huron.

However, before you hit the road for, don't forget the required Fishing License and Trout Stamp! These licences can be purchased at many of the sporting goods stores in the area, and some Oscada fishing charter services sell daily licenses.

For more information visit Fishing-Things.com

About the author: Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Savory Salmon Recipes for your next Fishing Expedition

Author: PaulMroczka

Cooking and eating fish that you caught that day is a real treat! As long as it's cooked properly, the smell is sweet, the flavors are rich, and the meat is succulent. Here are a few salmon recipes for your next fishing trip. They are simple to fix but very tasty. Of course you can use these at home on fish from the market too. But it won¡¯t taste as good as when you cook your fish fresh out of the water right next to the river.

This recipe is perfect for Sockeye (Red) Salmon.

Ingredients: Sockeye Salmon fillets (as many as you want) Marinade (you may use one of the recipes below or use a pre-made marinade sauce such as Yoshida¡¯s Gourmet Sauce; you need enough marinade to coat fillets.) Also Needed: 1 large (2-gallon) zip lock bag (or more, depending on how many fillets you¡¯re cooking) Cooler with plenty of ice Good quality charcoal briquettes (do NOT use lighter fluid) Small wire grill Heavy duty aluminum foil

Lemon-Dill Marinade:

Ingredients (makes enough for 4 fillets) ? cup of vegetable oil

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon of dill

? teaspoon of chives

1 teaspoon of parsley

? teaspoon of lemon pepper

Make the marinade just before you leave to go fishing. If going for longer than a day, mix just prior to marinating fish. Place all ingredients in a zip lock bag, seal, and mix until evenly distributed. Store in cooler.

Honey and Basil Marinade

Ingredients (makes enough for 4 fillets)

? cup of fresh basil leaves 3 tablespoons of olive oil

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

2 tablespoons of honey

? teaspoon of pepper and salt Use the same directions used for Lemon-Dill Marinade.

3 Sauce Marinade

Ingredients (makes enough for 4 fillets)

1/3 cup olive oil

1/3 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons steak sauce (such as A-1)

2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce

3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)

1 tablespoon dry tarragon

Mix as with other marinades.

Prep and Cooking

* Place fillets in marinade in plastic bag, seal, and store in cooler for 30 minutes to 1 hour. (Do not marinate too long or fillets may start to deteriorate. Always marinate in a cold container.) * Make a small fire with charcoal. * Once coals are hot-- ashen white-- place fillets skin side down on grill, brush or drizzle with marinade, and cover with a tent of aluminum foil. (The foil acts like a lid, allowing fish to cook on both sides at once) * With the grill about 3 inches over the coals, cook the fillets for about 15-20 minutes. When the meat flakes, the fish is done. Overcooking will dry out the fish and compromise its flavor. * Serve at once. * Store any cooked, uneaten fillets in the cooler for the next day.

Each of these marinades is simple to make and will keep in an iced cooler for a few days. Never reuse marinade; once you¡¯ve put raw fish in it, only use in cooking and NOT as a dipping sauce. Leaving fish too long in a marinade can turn it mushy. To be safe, marinate fillets for 30 to 60 minutes.

Enjoy your fishing and good eating!

About the author: This article was written by Paul Mroczka sponsored by http://www.alaskafishon.com Alaska Fish On is a licensed and registered Kenai river fishing guide service providing affordable packages for the novice or experienced fisher. Let the experts at Alaska Fish On tailor an Alaska fishing trip suited to your needs for your next vacation. Reproductions of this article are encouraged but must include a link pointing back to http://www.alaskafishon.com

Enjoying Competition Sport Fishing

Author: Niall Pesci

What is sport fishing? You could be competing for a trophy or you may be looking to catch the largest fish from all of your friends. Competitions are by far the most popular reason for sport fishing though. You can go both still fishing or fly fishing. You'll have a specific time frame and depending on the weight and the species that you catch, you may just bring home the big one. The type of line that you use is also important here. The heavier the line, the fewer points you'll get.

There are different types of sport fishing. Bass fishing, shore fishing, fly fishing, big game fishing, troll fishing and ice fishing are some of them. The competitions are based on the group of anglers, the conditions and the type of fish they are after. There is a wide range of options out there. You'll be able to catch fish like marlin, walleye, salmon, shark, tuna and a wide range of others. Equipment You'll Need

The equipment you need depends on what type of fish you are after as well as what type of fishing you are doing. You'll need to have the basics of rod, reel and tackle. Some will allow you to bring along your fish finder while others will not. Make sure you take a moment to see what the rules say.

For bait, you'll need to take with you're the bait that works for the fish you are after of course. You can go from simple things such as lures and spinners to wet and dry flies, shrimp or live fish and other live bait.

Understanding Fishing Line

The type of line used in these tournaments is often lighter than the force that the fish applies to it. Why? It's more of a challenge of course! You should purchase a high tech drag mechanism on your reel to compensate for this. This will keep the right tension in the line when the fish takes off. Only when the fish gets tired of running will you have the ability to land him. It can be quite challenging but that is what makes it so fun, right!

How To Fight The Big Guy

There are several methods that are used to fight hooked fish. One is the use of a game chair. The fisherman sits there and places the butt of his rod in a gimbaled mount. You'll need quite a long rod for this and it needs to be bent correctly to fit properly. This is not an easy task and you'll need experience to get it right. Or, you can go with the stand up method. You'll use a harness this time around. You'll need to eat your Wheaties for this one though.

Ready to give it a try? You may find yourself shocked by the price of it all. It can cost you up to $25,000 if you purchase everything. You can take advantage of charter services though which will cut down on the supplies (especially your boat!) and you'll get everything that you need. Take the time to learn with a professional to help you to make the most out of every tournament you enter. Winning the prize can help to lower these costs and make it all well worth it!

About the author: Niall is a keen fisherman always looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find fish finders or other GPS and Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. Copyright Fish-Finder-Review.com

Fishing Pictures Online

Author: Nico

Do you like fishing and do you own a digital camera? If you do there are several good services on the internet were you can upload your fishing pictures for others to see.

Maybe one of the largest fishing picture sites is My Fishing Pictures . This web site has a fishing forum also. This active fishing online community has nearly 10 000 members and 80 000 pictures. The pictures are divided into categories like saltwater, freshwater, trout, bass etc.

Another picture service for fishermen and women is

fishstring.com . On the web site fishstring says ""This site is dedicated to showcasing anglers and their fish pictures. The pictures of fish range from shark, trout, salmon, catfish and largemouth bass. Fishstring.com will also provide articles, tips, tricks and resources for all types of fishing.""

Fishing Pictures is a fairly new web site were you can upload fishing pictures. This site has a discussion forum, lure reviews and a personal blog.

About the author: Nicolas is webmaster for Fishing Pictures .

Angling Basics: What You Need To Know About Fishing Reels

Author: Niall Pesci

No matter what level of experience you have as a fisherman, you will benefit greatly from having the right reel for the job. You can easily learn what you should be using though and improve your skill because of it. There are three different types that you need to consider. These are the casting reel, the fly casting reel and the spin casting reel.

The Bait Casting Reel

These are quite difficult. The line on them is pulled off the rod by the lure's weight. It is then thrust forward in the motion of casting. They provide a device that lays the line evenly across the rotating cylinder that acts like the core of the reel. Without a smooth cast it will cause problems when the line is reeled in. The line can become tangled, too.

The Fly Fishing Reel

In a fly fishing real, you need to insure that it has a drag that is very responsive. Then, you'll need to purchase a reel that can stand the tension and strain put on it by a large fish. These are more expensive reels than other types. Make sure to check to make sure there are no plastic parts on the reel. All metal reels are much more dependable and they make it worth the price.

The Spinning Reel

The closed faced reel is the inexpensive spinning reel. It is also fairly easy to control. This is probably the choice you would make for those who are learning to fish. They have a push button release for casting. They have an opening at the top where the line comes out when you cast. The reel will mount on your rod.

The open faced spinning rod is a more challenging option. It comes in many sizes to fit your needs. The lightest models are excellent for pan fish. Larger choices will help you with game fishing or ocean fishing. The line capacity on these is greater and is serviceable when you are after trout or even salmon. They offer a smooth drag. Although you can start with a closed face, you can improve your skills and move on to the open faced.

If you are only choosing one type of reel, go with a medium speed one. If two, then look for both a low speed and a high speed. Also, you should choose the right reel depending on if you are left handed or right handed. Also, remember that the lighter the line is, the smaller the reel. You'll need to insure that the fishing line and the fishing reel will work together well.

You can get help with learning what type of reel to purchase from the salespeople at the fishing tackle shop.

About the author: Niall is a keen fisherman always looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find a fish finder or other GPS and Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. Copyright Fish-Finder-Review.com

The Basics Of Trout Fishing

Author: Niall Pesci

First things first, you need to know which fish are considered trout. The term can be one that is used for salmon family fish. It includes rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat and steelhead. You'll find that they are native to Europe, North America and Asia. But, they have been introduced to many areas around the world. Anglers love going after them for their beauty, taste and of course their size.

You'll find most of them in cooler lakes and rivers. Look where the rapidly moving water finds the slower moving water and where deep water hits the shallow. You can see them in the rocks in a calmer river too. Other species will tend to migrate towards slower currents or faster ones. You'll find brook, brown and rainbow trout at the head of a pool and the others towards the middle or end of it. You will find most of your trout in water adjacent to the main current.

Baits For Trout

You'll find a good variety of bait works for snagging the trout you are after. Some of these include earthworms, crayfish, minnows, spinners, and insects work well. Also, consider marshmallows and kernel corn.

Equipment Needed

For most still water fishing, go with a fiberglass or a graphite rod about six or seven feet. Use a basic reel. Eight to ten pound test line works well. For fly fishing, go with a nine foot fly rod and to catch trout over four pounds add 75 feet to your reel. Make sure to get out those waders and your vest with all the flies, knives and baskets you'll need.

Trout fishing is a type of fishing that is enjoyable. Most enjoy finding just that right spot, behind the fallen tree or in the shallow rocks where the trout love to hide. They are lurking just out of the way of that main current. Take the time to learn more about trout fishing from a professional, or look to taking a few lessons. It will pay off.

About the author: Niall is a keen fisherman always looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find a fish finder or other GPS and Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. Copyright Fish-Finder-Review.com

Can You Gain Anything From Fishing, Besides A Tasty Meal?

Author: Niall Pesci

There are many people who find that fishing is more than just a hobby. It is a way of relaxing and enjoying what life really can give to you. The feeling of being outdoors is nothing short of perfect after a long week at the office. From kids to the elderly, fishing is just the perfect way for you to enjoy what nature has to offer. Leave stress at home and come into the world of fishing at least just for a bit.

Think that fishing is boring? If you picture fishing as a sport in which you'll just spend your day on the side of the lake dozing, you can be wrong. Although this is quite fine for some, most anglers are out there for the challenge. Not only do you have to have skill to cast and get the fish to take hold, but you have to reel him in and land him too. It can be quite a challenge.

How To Learn To Fish

There are several things that you can do to learn how to fish. And, none of them are hard to do. Here are some tips for you to take advantage of.

1. Get in some research. You'll find many websites online to help you learn about what's out there and how to get it. You can head to your library if you prefer too.

2. Learn about the skills you need in how to books. Subscribe to a fishing magazine and learn even when you can't get out to give it a try.

3. Do you know someone that loves to fish? Ask if you can go with them next time they head out. This is a great time for some bonding as well. Buy just the basics or even borrow them.

4. A great way to learn to fish is through the professionals in your area. You can find them through your local bait shop or look them up online. The Conservation or wildlife center in your area may be able to help you too.

Not only can you learn to fish anytime that you want to, in virtually every seasons, you can also learn to fish at day or at night. If you are after a certain species, find out when they feed. Make sure to know where they like to hide too. Some will bite virtually anytime of the day, in any season and with just about any bait. Others are picky. All of this knowledge isn't something that you need to know now though. You'll learn in your training as well as through experience.

One thing to note, though, is that you are likely going to need a fishing license. These can be obtained at the local fishing tackle location or through the Conservation and Wildlife Services in your area. Don't assume you can fish anywhere either. In private lake's, you'll need to get permission from the owner.

Fishing is something that you can quickly enjoy. Even if you have not real experience, you still can learn and enjoy all that it has to offer. So, instead of spending this weekend on the couch in front of another television program you have seen already, head out onto the lake and enjoy some quality time with fish.

About the author: Niall is a fisherman always looking at new tools to help him catch more fish. Visit Fish Finder Review for more information and great deals to help you find a fish finder or other GPS/Sonar marine navigation systems. http://www.fish-finder-review.com

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. Copyright Fish-Finder-Review.com