soflabasser

I learned a long time ago to never underestimate any body of water since big bass can be found anywhere that has a healthy population of baitfish. For example, I have caught big bass in ponds and small canals that most would overlook.

I wrote this comment almost a year ago, and the answer is the same today, and for the rest of my life. The best fishing partner a man can have is his wife. If you are fortunate your wife will be your best friend as well, which will make your fishing trips more enjoyable.

It seems not many companies make tungsten spinnerbaits. Eco Pro makes tungsten spinnerbaits as you mentioned, maybe more companies will start making them.

Good report, thank you for sharing it. A lot of members here enjoy fishing for muskie and pike. Muskie are one of my favorite fish to catch since they remind me of barracudas, which is a fish I enjoy catching here in South Florida.

Welcome back to the forum

I use a mono leader often in the canals I fish for bass since these canals have tarpon, snook, snakeheads, and other fish with tough mouths.

Try fishing a spinnerbait.

I have caught lots of big bass on hollow belly frogs and never found the need to bend hooks on them.

I use heavy action rods when frog fishing and do well with LiveTarget and Booyah hollow belly frogs.

Most fishing guides get a 10-20% tip, depending on how good they are at putting their clients on fish and other factors.

Suncreen is not enough, you need to wear clothes that protects you from the sun, especially if you have light skin. I have fished in +90 degree weather with +80% humidity more times than most people have fished in their entire lives, and caught nice fish during these times, but it is not worth it in the long run. With that said you are free to fish in the middle of the day during the Summer if you like, just make sure to protect your skin from the sun. I remember you mentioning this last year. I hope it rains soon where you live so the drought goes away.

The best piece of advice I can give is fish with your Wife, if you are fortunate she will be your best friend as well. Another good advice is to do your best to learn from each fishing trip, since this is the best way to learn how to fish.

I knew this Summer was going to be hotter than usual since this past Winter was colder than usual. Make sure to stay properly hydrated, eat nutritious meals, and fish in low light hours. Try not to fish during the middle of the day, since the UV index is highest during this time.

I would say you are doing well if you are catching 90% or more of the fish that hit your lure.

It does not look like gas prices will return to $2.20 a gallon or less anytime soon. That is ok with me since I fish from the bank, and do quite well. Those with boats will have to learn how to adapt, I suggest fishing places closer to home, and improving your ability to catch bass. This will help you save money. Another thing you can do is learn to fish a handful of lures to the point you can fit all the lures you need in 1 Plano tackle box.

My experience has taught me that barbed hooks are better than barbless hooks. I prefer using barbed hooks, especially for big bass, tarpon, and other fish that jump. If using barbless hooks makes you happy then go for it.

Congratulations on thinking about starting a garden. Gardening teaches you how to be patient, how to pay attention to detail, and many other things. I have grown everything you mentioned, I find tomatoes to be the easiest to grow, so it is a great plant to start growing. Best piece of advice I can give you is to grow plants that do well in the area you live in during the seasons they grow best. Make sure to water when needed, do not overwater or underwater your plants. Try to stay away from pesticides and other nasty chemicals, especially if you plan on eating what you are growing. Good luck and I hope you enjoy taking care of your garden.

Your avatar is hilarious. lol You can use a lighter rod if you like, that should make it easier to fish.

Fish whenever you have the time to fish.

One of the best ways to improve your skill in fishing is to fish new bodies of water. Anyone can catch fish in places they have fished for years, but it takes much more skill to do well in places you have never fished before. Techniques you learn in the past can help you in new bodies of water, so it is worth using what you know and not overthink things while fishing. That is why I mentioned earlier that it is best to learn to fish a handful of lures well, it forces you to improve your presentation, which will increase your success in the long run.

Happy Fourth of July Weekend to everyone in this forum.

The best way to get better at bass fishing is to put your time on the water and do your best to learn from each fishing trip. No amount of time you spend on a forum will compare to going out and fishing for bass. Same can be said for any other hobby. Another advice I can give to those who have not reached their bass fishing goals is to not overcomplicate bass fishing, it is not rocket science. Learn how to fish a handful of lures well and you should be able to catch lots of nice bass.

Fish whenever you have the time, and don't worry what others say is the best time to fish.

Best way to save money on gas is drive a vehicle that burns less gas per gallon, and choose wisely where you fish so you don't burn more gas than you have to.

I am not surprised. A lot of people that fish also like working out, myself included. I have lifted weights for most of my life, and done calisthenics since I was a kid. Fishing can be a good workout if you fish from land, or wade fish. In the end your health is the most important thing you have, so it is best for you to take care of yourself the best you can.