Hey all....

My bassin buddy and I have our first local tournamnet on 10/28 (this Sunday). We think we got everything ready but?????

Please, any tips for a first timer..how to's, what to avoid, live well ABC's, lures ANYTHING.

Thanks

bassinajr

Good luckand have fun.

Fish to your strengths.

If something does not work do not keep trying it. Change. Don't be afraid to change.

Go faster, slower, deeper, shallower.

Use other baits.

WATCH FOR THE PATTERNS.

On wood?  Off shore off wood or close to shore off wood? To the left or right of the wood?  How deep?

Get the pattern. Very important to be very sensitive as to the time, place, type of structure or cover, water clarity, numbe of feet off the shoreline, bait used, depth, etc. when you catch your first fish.

Good luck.

Sam x2. Let the fish tell you.

First of all good luck!

I fished my first tournament in March and have fished about 20 since.  Here are a few things that would have helped me out.

1. Make a plan, using a map if possible, with your buddy the night before.  Pick 3 or 4 spots you have confidence in.

2. Tie on your 4 favorite lures the night before and have them on the deck. (topwater, spinnerbait, crankbait, and a carolina rig are my personal fav)

3. Get to the ramp early!  Don't be rushed, get in the water and relax.........

4. Fish your plan.....

5. Hydrate yourself....During the excitement of your first tourney, remember to eat and drink plenty of fluids..

6. Don't fill your livewell until you are in the cleanest water available...usually not at the ramp...

7. Put a set of jumper cables in the boat.  A dead starting battery 20 min before weigh in is depressing...You can always jump from your trolling motor batteries.

8. Take 5 min a couple of times in the morning to stretch and relax.... The last 2 hours make the difference between 1st and 20th...You need the rest to stay sharp and not miss a fish 6 hours into the tourney.

9.  Retie your lures after EVERY fish or bad hangup, it only takes a few seconds and you will not be sorry, (like I was)

10. Remember fishing is FUN.

11. Remember fishing is FUN.

12. Remember fishing is FUN.

Lee

While there is an entry fee and we'd all like to win we fish for FUN.  

Absolutley....just don't want to show up without my rods!!!