Mobasser

So many of the big bass are caught on jigs, but the big fish are caught on all sorts of baits. My old buddy Mike caught a seven pounder on a Buzzbait. Spooks, swimbaits, plastic worms and spinnerbaits have all worked for big fish at times. We just have to be there when the big ones are ready to eat. Most times, it seems like the window of opportunity is small. I've read a lot about big bass liking crawfish, and it's been proven. But, I also think that if your in the right location, and a big one is hungry, they'll strike other baits too. Most bass guys don't use much live bait anymore, but plenty of big fish have been taken on live craw's, nightcrawlers, and large minnows too. There was even a whopper caught on a chicken nugget.

Ive been down this road, and struck out. I devoted an entire season trying to beat my own PB of 8lbs, caught thirty years ago. I haven't given up yet, but I made the decision to fish as I always have, and have fun. Lots of good points made here. My own observation is that guys who catch really big bass- there's little if any luck involved. They study the bass, and learn from experience when and where to fish, what baits work best at certain times, and how to fish these baits the best way. My own lake is eight acres with very clear water. Some days, it's hard to catch a keeper, let alone a giant. They'res some in there. One day I'll hook one.

Mine is catching fish from gin clear water, and landing them.on 6lb test line.

Lonnie, that's me also. Im not changing now. Use the method that works best for you.

I'm right handed. I cast with my right then switch to hold the rod with my left hand. I've been doing it this way for so many years I'd have a hard time learning a different way. Spinning reels, I cast with my right and reel.with my left. Both ways work. To each his own.

Whenever this topic comes up, I'm always reminded of my friend Mike who fished with me. He'll turn 74 soon. His leg got shot up in Vietnam and he's had a limp since 1970. Sometimes he's just too tired to go. But he still loves fishing, and tells me he'll fish until he just can't do it anymore. He's in pretty good shape for his age, considering everything. He's also one of the toughest guys Ive ever known. He has a non quitter attitude about everything, and this is how he keeps going.

I've thought about investing in a magnifier that clips on my cap, like fly fisherman use. Tying knots may be easier that way. I think for me with aging, trying to keep yourself in good shape goes a long way here. Stop smoking, try to eat healthy, and keep your weight in check can all help us, and could add some years to our favourite pastime. It's a daily thing we should all be aware of.

I'm 67, still doing ok, but have the usual things for my age. I always stay hydrated well. Wear PFD always. My canoe is a wide style, and I carry less things these past few years. There's less to trip or stumble on. I prefer to fish with my grandson, or my old friend Mike, as both are good partners. I still enjoy bank fishing and one thing I think is important is watch your step when your walking around the lake. Always have your phone with you, and of course ID and contact info. Dress for the weather, and have fun.

Good thread. I chose a Roboworm, but there are so many great plastic baits to use on a t rig. Over the years I've used a bunch of them, and they've all worked.

Catt, I'm.a big believer in adjusting rate of fall. Its very quick to retie with more or less weight, and it can make a difference. We might have our favourite weights to throw, but being versatile is where it's at.

I usually drink a glass of milk every day. I drink 2 percent milk.

Hard to pick one. I'll take a Roboworm 1/8 oz weight and 1/0 hook for 4" worm or 2/0 hook for 6" worm. Colors are mm111, Folkstead Special, or Oxblood red/ flake.

Catt, I'd compare this to my pre diabetic diagnosis. It's two different things, but both are about will power and changing your diet. Im doing it successfully, and I'm sure you can too. A lot of the reason people struggle so much with things like this is they can't say no, and are unwilling to make a change for the better. This is what my doctor's told me.

Catt, I called my brother in law. Basically, he has to be careful with milk, cheeses, ice cream and dairy products. He can have some, but he's cut way back on these things. He said it wasn't that hard. Good luck with it Catt.

Cory, scroll through the forum titles. They have a big section on boats, how to and all info regarding boats of all kinds.

Catt, my wife has a sister in Arizona. Her husband is lactose intolerant. I think he's 69 years old. He had to change up some things in his diet. I know one thing was buying Keto bread. I'll try to find out the rest, but I don't think it was too bad for him.

Really nice. When I was a kid fishing with my older brother, a small frog finish Bass O Reno was his favourite lure. It's always fun looking through these old catalogs.

I would like to say thank you to members scaleface and Jig Man. Two times I've made post talking about different baits over the years and both these guys have sent me some baits that they made themselves. The baits are excellent quality. Some really good guys on this site, and just one more reason that BR is the best bass fishing site on the internet. Scaleface and Jig Man, I appreciate your kindness and generosity. The world needs more guys like you. Thanks again.

In my area of North Central Mo, I've never had much luck on a muskie Jitterbug. I bought one years ago for night fishing. But I have caught many bass over the years on a 5/8 oz Jitterbug in black or frog colors. It's a classic.

I fished a few tournaments many years ago. I was never really very good at it. I realized that competitive fishing just wasn't my thing. Now, I'm 67, and I like fishing in a slower more relaxing way.

I'm usually headed south. Down to the Missouri Ozarks.

Tomorrow is Saturday. During warm weather, I'd be up by 4:30 or 5:00. I'd have my canoe rigged and ready. I'd have already gone over my tackle, and would know what to take. If my grandson or my old buddy Mike could go with me, I'd swing by and pick them up on the way. I'd probably bring something for Aiden( grandson) to eat for breakfast. He's 17, and always hungry. Plus, he's notorious for jumping out of bed at the last minute and racing out the door. But, in his defense, he's never late. On the way to the lake, we'll be talking about where to fish, and what baits may work the best. Then I wake up. I realize I was dreaming. I look outside to see cold, snow, and I know the lakes are frozen like concrete. I'm already burned out on this weather, and we've still got February and March to get through. Actually, I just want to go fishing, that's it. Anyone else feeling this?

My older brother was the only fishing " coach" I ever had. Mid 1960s, on our grandpa's farm pond in Chillicothe Mo. We stayed on the farm much of the summer to help our grandpa. And, we fished every evening.

We were at -5 yesterday morning. This morning we're at 20. It will warm to 28 today. Catt, my go-to for this is do the best you can. When it's below zero everything is frozen. It's tough.

NorthernBasser, know that we're all praying for you and hoping the best for you.