Thinking About Giving Up 2024
t_bone_713 reply :
Good Evening,
I am a "born again" bass fisherman that well, simply put, can't catch anything.
When I younger I used to fish with my grandfather and I remember every time we went we each caught something. Even if it was just a little guy, it was something. I didn't know much, but I tied on a hook with a weight and a worm and just fished. "Hold the rod straight, pop it 3 times, 9 to 11, lower it down, reel in the slack, and if you feel something move your gear set the hook." I remember even catching a PB 4lbs 7oz at like 10 or 11.
All that aside I recently decided (at 28) that I want to bring fishing back into my life and into my family's life. I went out bought a 7' MH Fast, put on some 8lb mono, 1/8oz weights, 4/0 ewg hooks, and some senkos (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue). Skunked. 11 sessions (2-5 hour sessions) at about 5 different spots between June and August. Not discouraged I took some time off to let it cool down a bit and did some research on spots to fish, simple lures to add to my arsenal to change up the presentation, and talked to some locals. I watched roughly 100 hours of fishing videos on youtube to make sure my hands were doing the right thing, what to add, and when to use them. I added 1/4 jigs with matching trailers (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue), 1/8oz spinnerbaits (White and Chartreuse and Black and Blue), and #7 mojo rigged trick worms (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue). Also learned drop shots craws (3/16oz) for the rare vertical structures. Armed to the teeth I headed out between October and November to all the new spots that the locals told me about, the hot spots on Fishbrain, and the state protected inland fishery places. Skunked. 9 sessions (2-5 hour sessions). I've literally had a single bite. One. It was on a spinnerbait; I went to set the hook and flipped him out of the water and lost him.
All in all I've put about 200 hours into catching just one fish. I haven't. I have literally no idea what I am doing wrong. When I look up my "symptoms" I've already tried the answers. "Slow down, simplify, use a different color, do some research, talk to locals, etc." Where I used to find motivation in youtube fisherman catching something on silly things like a broom pole, string, and a hot dog or bringing a 5 year old with them to teach them to fish and they catch their first fish; I now only find frustration.
I want to do this. I really, really do. Help me remember my grandfather and rebuild a hobby I can share with my grand kids. Will you kind folks offer an advice to me and maybe convince me to give it one more shot?
Thank you in advance!
The Bassman reply :
Would like to welcome you to the forums first. What jumped out at me in your post was when you mentioned that you were "armed to the teeth". I believe that's your problem. Too much too soon. Without getting bogged down in technical things go back to basics like when you were 10 (except with lures instead of live worms.) You'll get plenty of suggestions as this thread progresses. Get on just one or two basic techniques and think like you did years ago. There's lots of good info here. Best of luck.
Harold Scoggins reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 8:14 AM, t_bone_713 said:I want to do this.
You can. You are in the right spot to pick up the fun hobby of bass fishing. If you added up all the years of experience on this site and converted into miles, it would stretch well beyond the moon. I wish Bass Resource and the internet had been around when I was your age, it would have saved me thousands of hours. Glenn May and his team have built the best resource for fishing information IMO. Where are you located?
LCG reply :
Hang in there buddy. I started fishing in when I was 34 and it took me an entire year to catch one bass. But that fish was worth it, I started to finally understand some things I was doing wrong.
I am 40 now and have learned a ton. My advice is to stick to two techniques that are opposite of each other. One finesse technique and one moving bait. Master them. Don't give up.
Personally a zman TRD rigged on a size 2 ewg hook and a 1/16oz bullet weight pegged on 6lb line is my go to finesse rig. For moving baits with vibration hard to beat either a 3/8 oz spinnerbait or a mepps inline spinner #3 or 4 in gold color. For moving baits with no vibration, my go to is a white curly tail grub.
Maybe find where people are fishing and watch them. See if they can offer any advice on your bodies of water. If all else fails live worms never ever fail to catch something.
MN Fisher reply :
At one point or another, all of us get disenchanted - bad day, not being able to go out when you want, whatever.
This year I had 1 good bass, several dinks, 1 'hammerhandle' northern and a bunch of non-keeper panfish....ya, it was a bad year.
I'm still going to go out next year - it's the getting out there that matters...catching some nice fish is a bonus.
Hang in there - concentrate on just a few techniques, learn the lake(s) you're fishing (contour maps are a great item) and learn from the folks here.
jimmyjoe reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 8:54 AM, LCG said:If all else fails live worms never ever fail to catch something.
Yup. Go back to the basics. There's no shame in using live bait. Get some confidence that way, get the family interested, and then gradually move into artificials. And remember ...... have fun. ???? jj
WRB reply :
I can see why you are frustrated. You started out using a Senko apparently T-rigged with a 1/8 oz weight. 1 simple basic presentation that the majority of BR members tote as a fail safe presetnation. Anyone who believes the lure and presentation is the key to catching bass is mistaken. Bass don't strike lures because the angler thinks it's good, they strike because it looks alive to them. The key here is it looks alive to the bass and to do that you must put the lure into the basses strike zone.....location and timing is the key.
You talked to local anglers, try asking them to take you along with them and show you how they catch bass. Talk is cheap and often misleading, on the water tutoring from a good angler willing to teach you is priceless.
You have the right stuff, don't add more.
You didn't include any info regarding your regional location, my suggestion is add where you are located, it helps.
Tom
Scott F reply :
Aside from not catching any bass, you don’t provide much other information about your location, or if you fish from shore only. In my view, it seems like you need to be fishing with someone else who is having some success. I always give this advice to new guys. Join a club. Doesn’t have to be a tournament club. Just start hanging out with other fishermen. My experience shows that fishermen are almost always willing and happy to pass on their knowledge. If someone will take you out and show you the patterns that are working on your local waters. You’ll learn faster and have more fun than trying to figure it out alone.
Sam reply :
T-bone, we all want to give you some advice but we need your help, first.
First, please update your avatar with your physical location and where you like to fish.
Second, please go to the Introduction section and introduce yourself.
Now, as for to you getting shut out, it happens to all of us.
If we know your physical location and the types of waters you like to fish we can really dig in deep and give you some good advice.
Welcome to the Forum. Become a regular and read, read, and read some more. Take your time this winter to read and study your little green opponent. Ask us questions. Challenge us to give you some good advice. And then you will be armed and dangerous this spring.
Craig P reply :
As others have said, hang in there and trim down your tackle. Take with you only a couple of presentations and that’s it. Learn them fully!
As for Senkos, I fish a lake where I couldn’t buy a bite with Senkos until one day I bought a different color, then it changed dramatically. I was never a believer in color as I have a trout spin fishing background, color was always for the angler so I could see the spinner depending on water color. I’ve obviously since changed that opinion so get fancy with some color. Orange / Black (I forget the real name) has never failed me, regardless of water color.
About those Senkos. Next time out, try wacky rig on a standard J hook without any weight. Cast it into tight areas along the bank and brush and then watch that slack line. Yep, you’re going to get snags but your production will increase and your confidence will sky rocket.
I speak from experience of being exactly where you are at, I’m just a year ahead of you now. It will come together for you.
Hook2Jaw reply :
☹️ Don't give up yet!
Like everyone else has said, focus on one presentation at a time. When I began to take bass fishing seriously instead of as an every once in a while thing, I looked up the best ways to catch bass.
That brought me here, so we're on the same path. I ended up with a Pflueger Trion 2500, a Berkley Lighting Rod 7' Medium Fast, some braid, ten pound fluorocarbon leader, some 3/0 EWG worm hooks and some 5" Yamamoto Senkos. I settled on two colors, green pumpkin for my clearer water, and black and blue for stained and dirty.
The best advice I can give you is to fish an often productive technique like a Texas rigged stick bait -- this is still my answer to the dreaded skunk, and start putting it close to shoreline cover. Give it a while to touch bottom, give it a slow lift, and allow it to drop again. You should eventually get bit.
Shimano_1 reply :
Like has already been stated I think you're overwhelming yourself with all the options and techniques. If your not catching fish it can be mind boggling as to why or where or what you should do. I would ask myself if I actually enjoyed being out and the act of fishing. If I didn't then I'd sell all that gear. If I did then I'd quit looking at it like you're failing if you're not catching. If you enjoy the time on the water and putting the puzzle together...the catching part will come. Personally I'd focus on say a jig and maybe a spinnerbait this time of year and leave everything else at home. Once you start catching fish and continue to try new things it will all start falling into place. Good luck on your journey!
TriStateBassin106 reply :
I am too a (Born again) angler! got back into this sport last April and I have been having a blast! start slow my man!
A great beginner bait is a Green Pumpkin senko with a texas rig, Fish it slow and drag across the bottom! watch that line! And always make sure to set the hook upwards with Texas rigs!!
Here's a link on here that might help you!
And a video by a great youtuber called Realistic Fishing on how to fish the texas rig!
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 8:50 AM, The Bassman said:Would like to welcome you to the forums first. What jumped out at me in your post was when you mentioned that you were "armed to the teeth". I believe that's your problem. Too much too soon. Without getting bogged down in technical things go back to basics like when you were 10 (except with lures instead of live worms.) You'll get plenty of suggestions as this thread progresses. Get on just one or two basic techniques and think like you did years ago. There's lots of good info here. Best of luck.
Thanks for the kind words! Might just grab Roland Martin's favorite next time out. 4/0 EWG, 1/8 bullet weight, and 297 Green Pumpkin Senko and leave the rest at home!
On 11/14/2019 at 8:53 AM, Harold Scoggins said:You can. You are in the right spot to pick up the fun hobby of bass fishing. If you added up all the years of experience on this site and converted into miles, it would stretch well beyond the moon. I wish Bass Resource and the internet had been around when I was your age, it would have saved me thousands of hours. Glenn May and his team have built the best resource for fishing information IMO. Where are you located?
Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina!
On 11/14/2019 at 8:54 AM, LCG said:Hang in there buddy. I started fishing in when I was 34 and it took me an entire year to catch one bass. But that fish was worth it, I started to finally understand some things I was doing wrong.
I am 40 now and have learned a ton. My advice is to stick to two techniques that are opposite of each other. One finesse technique and one moving bait. Master them. Don't give up.
Personally a zman TRD rigged on a size 2 ewg hook and a 1/16oz bullet weight pegged on 6lb line is my go to finesse rig. For moving baits with vibration hard to beat either a 3/8 oz spinnerbait or a mepps inline spinner #3 or 4 in gold color. For moving baits with no vibration, my go to is a white curly tail grub.
Maybe find where people are fishing and watch them. See if they can offer any advice on your bodies of water. If all else fails live worms never ever fail to catch something.
Thanks for the kind words! That a size 2? or a 2/0? Choose two. Got it.
On 11/14/2019 at 8:59 AM, MN Fisher said:At one point or another, all of us get disenchanted - bad day, not being able to go out when you want, whatever.
This year I had 1 good bass, several dinks, 1 'hammerhandle' northern and a bunch of non-keeper panfish....ya, it was a bad year.
I'm still going to go out next year - it's the getting out there that matters...catching some nice fish is a bonus.
Hang in there - concentrate on just a few techniques, learn the lake(s) you're fishing (contour maps are a great item) and learn from the folks here.
Concentrate on a few techniques. What's the best way to get contour maps?
On 11/14/2019 at 9:00 AM, jimmyjoe said:
Yup. Go back to the basics. There's no shame in using live bait. Get some confidence that way, get the family interested, and then gradually move into artificials. And remember ...... have fun. ???? jj
Thanks!!
On 11/14/2019 at 9:22 AM, Scott F said:Aside from not catching any bass, you don’t provide much other information about your location, or if you fish from shore only. In my view, it seems like you need to be fishing with someone else who is having some success. I always give this advice to new guys. Join a club. Doesn’t have to be a tournament club. Just start hanging out with other fishermen. My experience shows that fishermen are almost always willing and happy to pass on their knowledge. If someone will take you out and show you the patterns that are working on your local waters. You’ll learn faster and have more fun than trying to figure it out alone.
Sorry! Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina! Banks for now! Maybe a Kayak?
On 11/14/2019 at 9:42 AM, Sam said:T-bone, we all want to give you some advice but we need your help, first.
First, please update your avatar with your physical location and where you like to fish.
Second, please go to the Introduction section and introduce yourself.
Now, as for to you getting shut out, it happens to all of us.
If we know your physical location and the types of waters you like to fish we can really dig in deep and give you some good advice.
Welcome to the Forum. Become a regular and read, read, and read some more. Take your time this winter to read and study your little green opponent. Ask us questions. Challenge us to give you some good advice. And then you will be armed and dangerous this spring.
Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina! I will update those asap! Thanks!
BigAngus752 reply :
I would bet my boat that you have gotten bites. All those hours spent, I would bet you've gotten bit several times. Do some research on what a bite feels like and when you should set the hook. Sometimes a bite is the opposite of what common sense says it should be. If you are waiting for that "tug" you are missing a lot of fish. The hardest thing for me to swing on is the "weightless" feeling where the bass picks it up and sits with it. I have gotten to the point (just this year in fact) that I am paying close enough attention to the line that I'm hooking fish based solely on the movement of my line. These things are tough to learn but pay huge dividends.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 9:44 AM, Craig P said:As others have said, hang in there and trim down your tackle. Take with you only a couple of presentations and that’s it. Learn them fully!
As for Senkos, I fish a lake where I couldn’t buy a bite with Senkos until one day I bought a different color, then it changed dramatically. I was never a believer in color as I have a trout spin fishing background, color was always for the angler so I could see the spinner depending on water color. I’ve obviously since changed that opinion so get fancy with some color. Orange / Black (I forget the real name) has never failed me, regardless of water color.
About those Senkos. Next time out, try wacky rig on a standard J hook without any weight. Cast it into tight areas along the bank and brush and then watch that slack line. Yep, you’re going to get snags but your production will increase and your confidence will sky rocket.
I speak from experience of being exactly where you are at, I’m just a year ahead of you now. It will come together for you.
Thanks it helps to know people have been where I am! How did you go about picking colors? I've did the two aforementioned colors because EVERY youtuber says those are the two colors they would choose but youtube fisherman and real people are very different. Thank you so much!
On 11/14/2019 at 10:01 AM, Hook2Jaw said:☹️ Don't give up yet!
Like everyone else has said, focus on one presentation at a time. When I began to take bass fishing seriously instead of as an every once in a while thing, I looked up the best ways to catch bass.
That brought me here, so we're on the same path. I ended up with a Pflueger Trion 2500, a Berkley Lighting Rod 7' Medium Fast, some braid, ten pound fluorocarbon leader, some 3/0 EWG worm hooks and some 5" Yamamoto Senkos. I settled on two colors, green pumpkin for my clearer water, and black and blue for stained and dirty.
The best advice I can give you is to fish an often productive technique like a Texas rigged stick bait -- this is still my answer to the dreaded skunk, and start putting it close to shoreline cover. Give it a while to touch bottom, give it a slow lift, and allow it to drop again. You should eventually get bit.
My man! Thank you so much!
MN Fisher reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:24 AM, t_bone_713 said:Concentrate on a few techniques. What's the best way to get contour maps?
Couple places - there's a link to the Navonics maps here on BR
https://www.bassresource.com/maps/fishing-spots-maps.html
I personally use I-Boating's maps and app on my Tablet
http://fishing-app.gpsnauticalcharts.com/i-boating-fishing-web-app/fishing-marine-charts-navigation.html#4.05/40.821/-96.957
With either one, just scroll around and zoom in to your lake.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:11 AM, Shimano_1 said:Like has already been stated I think you're overwhelming yourself with all the options and techniques. If your not catching fish it can be mind boggling as to why or where or what you should do. I would ask myself if I actually enjoyed being out and the act of fishing. If I didn't then I'd sell all that gear. If I did then I'd quit looking at it like you're failing if you're not catching. If you enjoy the time on the water and putting the puzzle together...the catching part will come. Personally I'd focus on say a jig and maybe a spinnerbait this time of year and leave everything else at home. Once you start catching fish and continue to try new things it will all start falling into place. Good luck on your journey!
That's the only thing that has kept me going is being outside and the burning desire to figure this out for myself and other reasons!
On 11/14/2019 at 10:35 AM, BigAngus752 said:I would bet my boat that you have gotten bites. All those hours spent, I would bet you've gotten bit several times. Do some research on what a bite feels like and when you should set the hook. Sometimes a bite is the opposite of what common sense says it should be. If you are waiting for that "tug" you are missing a lot of fish. The hardest thing for me to swing on is the "weightless" feeling where the bass picks it up and sits with it. I have gotten to the point (just this year in fact) that I am paying close enough attention to the line that I'm hooking fish based solely on the movement of my line. These things are tough to learn but pay huge dividends.
I started out "setting the hook" on everything that felt well like anything, anything that moved my gear that I didn't cause, just like grandpa said. I felt like I was dry firing ALL THE TIME cause I was. How did you learn this technique? Thanks!!!
jimmyjoe reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:40 AM, t_bone_713 said:I started out "setting the hook" on everything that felt well like anything, anything that moved my gear that I didn't cause, just like grandpa said. I felt like I was dry firing ALL THE TIME cause I was. How did you learn this technique?
I know where you're at.
Here's some advice. Not for forever, but just for now. Watch your line, like @BigAngus752 said. When you see it move, count slowly to three before you swing for the bleachers. That way you won't pull the lure out of the fish's mouth. This is one thing that's a little different from live bait fishing, mostly because of the different hooks used and the way they're rigged. jj
Ratherbfishing reply :
Don't take anything but an assortment of ribbon tail worms between 6 and 8 inches long and of various colors. Drag them along at different speeds (but mostly slow) in and around vegetation. Don't forget to stop every now and again to tie your shoe or reach for a soda. This is when the bites will come.
BigAngus752 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:40 AM, t_bone_713 said:I started out "setting the hook" on everything that felt well like anything, anything that moved my gear that I didn't cause, just like grandpa said. I felt like I was dry firing ALL THE TIME cause I was. How did you learn this technique? Thanks!!!
If your line moves, something moved it! You're doing it right. You just have to swing and miss a million times to get it right. Unfortunately I fish all manmade reservoirs that are chock full of timber so I break off at least a couple times every trip just because I swing at something I think I felt or saw. @jimmyjoe is giving you good advice. I still have issues with swinging early before the fish has it all the way in their mouth. Bass fishing requires a lot of self-discipline. Learn to watch, feel, wait, and set the hook. It's hard to do, but if it was easy I wouldn't bother with it.
GreenPig reply :
I'd throw a 1/8 oz Rooster Tail if you just want to catch some fish. I've never seen a body of water that has bass that a Rooster Tail wouldn't catch a few.
Craig P reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:36 AM, t_bone_713 said:On 11/14/2019 at 9:44 AM, Craig P said:
Thanks it helps to know people have been where I am! How did you go about picking colors? I've did the two aforementioned colors because EVERY youtuber says those are the two colors they would choose but youtube fisherman and real people are very different. Thank you so much!
To be honest, finding the right color was luck. I have a friend who went through it with me if you will. Every time we went out, we always made sure to use something different from each other and that included stick bait color. We’d pick up a pack here and there and wing it and one day we finally started producing bites. We’ve since found a few other colors that work for us as well but only because we finally found something that gave us confidence.
To go a little deeper, find the style you like to fish and fish it. To me, that is enjoyable fishing. I mentioned in another thread that when I can’t get bit using the popular bass methods, I go to an in-line spinner like a CP or Swiss Swing and I can always muster a fish or two, sometimes more. Is that bait magical? Nah, I’ve just been fishing it forever and I know how to fish that bait / style.
scaleface reply :
Too many hours , no fish. Youre doing it wrong . Are you fishing from bank or craft , describe it . Ponds , reservoirs , rivers..? Weeds , wood, rock..? clear water , stained , muddy ..? Spinning , baitcasting , spincast .Give all the info you can think of .
ike8120 reply :
I just got back into bass fishing this year.
I only caught 2 bass this season, I am a bank fishermen. But I would rather be fishing and enjoying the outdoors then sitting on a couch watching nothing on TV. I am basically finding out what I like and don't like in the way of tackle, etc.
I feel like I am just paying my dues. Don't get frustrated, in time you will be killing them.
Dirtyeggroll reply :
Find someone to go with who has been catching them to give you a little confidence booster.
TnRiver46 reply :
Are there other people fishing the spots that you have tried?
Luke Barnes reply :
I'm 35 and only been fishing for 2 years. Trust me when I say I've been there. I got so discouraged, but I couldn't stop going. Then one day it all clicked. It was knowing what lure to throw where and when. Not every situation calls for a Senko. Not everyone calls for a spinnerbait. I flip and pitch alot now. I use lipless crankbaits and chatterbaits, but.......... when they are appropriate for the situation. Color I base on water clarity and local forage. Green pumpkin in chocolate mile water is dang near invisible if you ask me. Took me a year and a half to catch my first topwater fish. Now I know when and where to throw them. Weather Conditions, water clarity, forage, fishing pressure. All of it adds up.
Russ E reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:14 PM, Dirtyeggroll said:Find someone to go with who has been catching them to give you a little confidence booster.
I agree.
All those hours with nothing would be tough.
Just out of pure luck you should have caught something.
If anything was biting, at least one should have hooked itself.
I would be looking for a fishing partner and new water.
Jermination reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 8:14 AM, t_bone_713 said:Good Evening,
I am a "born again" bass fisherman that well, simply put, can't catch anything.
When I younger I used to fish with my grandfather and I remember every time we went we each caught something. Even if it was just a little guy, it was something. I didn't know much, but I tied on a hook with a weight and a worm and just fished. "Hold the rod straight, pop it 3 times, 9 to 11, lower it down, reel in the slack, and if you feel something move your gear set the hook." I remember even catching a PB 4lbs 7oz at like 10 or 11.
All that aside I recently decided (at 28) that I want to bring fishing back into my life and into my family's life. I went out bought a 7' MH Fast, put on some 8lb mono, 1/8oz weights, 4/0 ewg hooks, and some senkos (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue). Skunked. 11 sessions (2-5 hour sessions) at about 5 different spots between June and August. Not discouraged I took some time off to let it cool down a bit and did some research on spots to fish, simple lures to add to my arsenal to change up the presentation, and talked to some locals. I watched roughly 100 hours of fishing videos on youtube to make sure my hands were doing the right thing, what to add, and when to use them. I added 1/4 jigs with matching trailers (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue), 1/8oz spinnerbaits (White and Chartreuse and Black and Blue), and #7 mojo rigged trick worms (Green Pumpkin and Black and Blue). Also learned drop shots craws (3/16oz) for the rare vertical structures. Armed to the teeth I headed out between October and November to all the new spots that the locals told me about, the hot spots on Fishbrain, and the state protected inland fishery places. Skunked. 9 sessions (2-5 hour sessions). I've literally had a single bite. One. It was on a spinnerbait; I went to set the hook and flipped him out of the water and lost him.
All in all I've put about 200 hours into catching just one fish. I haven't. I have literally no idea what I am doing wrong. When I look up my "symptoms" I've already tried the answers. "Slow down, simplify, use a different color, do some research, talk to locals, etc." Where I used to find motivation in youtube fisherman catching something on silly things like a broom pole, string, and a hot dog or bringing a 5 year old with them to teach them to fish and they catch their first fish; I now only find frustration.
I want to do this. I really, really do. Help me remember my grandfather and rebuild a hobby I can share with my grand kids. Will you kind folks offer an advice to me and maybe convince me to give it one more shot?
Thank you in advance!
hey man, so you really need to start by putting down the finesse tactics and power fish, 1. the bites are way easier to detect 2. you can cover a heck of a lot more water 3. ticking them off will generate just as many bites as if they were feeding.
go buy a bill lewis blue back & chrome rattle trap, sling it and reel it back in as quickly as you can. walk around to points and stuff off the bank, find a good area of the bank to parallel it(or bridge pilings). if you are struggling with detecting bites, throw something where there is absolutely no doubt when one takes it
Fishin' Fool reply :
I have so many fishing lures. Crankbaits, jerkaits, spinnerbaits, top water, I could go on and on. I have pretty much narrowed down what i fish with a senko and drop shot. It's amazing how many fish I catch. Stick with a few techniques and really master them before you consider adding more. Anyone live out by this guy that could help speed his learning curve? I live in West Michigan, you're welcome to fish with me but unfortunately I fish from a kayak.
WhittyPoo reply :
I just got back into it this past summer. I basically had to teach myself how to fish again. The big key for me was knowing where to find the fish. I focused on any structure, overhang, rocks, laydowns...you name it.
I mainly fished T-rig soft plastics all summer. Ribbon tail worms, trick worms, craws, and weightless senkos. Rarely I threw a PopR or small spinnerbait, but without success.
Keep it simple and stick with the soft plastics. Green pumpkin and black/purple were my go to colors.
Hang in there, bud.
Fishes in trees reply :
First, my guess that that you might want to learn seasonal patterns for your area. Putting hours in fishing where they ain't is frustrating and counter productive. Next, never mentioned if you were bank bound or had boat access. Makes a huge difference. If you're new to boat fishing, the whole process of operating & fishing out of a boat can be real intimidating. Viewing videos can help but the only real solution is time on the water.
Next, you mentioned a few rods & reels and (in my opinion) a modest bait selection and you felt "armed to the teeth"
Trust me when I say you ain't. I fish out of an 18' floating tackle box and I routinely fish with 20 or so rods scattered around the deck, with the requisite amount of gear (or more) for each rod and believe me when I say I'm aware that there are many holes in my current arsenal. I'm close to maxed out on the number of rigs I can carry, so I need to get smarter about what I carry when. Much easier said than done. The point of this last paragraph is to point out that every person who fishes has stuff that they need to work on and get better at.
When I was first seriously learning about bass fishing, I focused on one bait - although I carried a few others. My bait of choice was a Charlie Brewer Slider head with the 4" Brewer worm. I had a 6' graphite rod (not real common in 1977) and threw the slider head 90% of the time - almost always on 6 lb test. I'd use the 1/8 oz head fishing from the bank and the 1/4 oz head when I had boat access. If I had to do it these days, I'd go with 10 or 12 lb braid instead of the 6 lb mono. A short trip to the Brewer web site will reveal that there are a dozen or more Brewer Slider heads, trust me when I mention that Charlie Brewer had a good reason for each variation of the slider concept.
Another reason why I mention the slider head/worm combo is that I think that the jig worm concept is easier to learn on than a tx rig with the weight sliding on the line. In tx rig fishing with the sliding weight, you're never sure where the weight is in relation to the hook. Using a jig worm, you know that the hook is an inch and a half behind the weight. That did wonders for my confidence - knowing where the hook was.
If you're going to stick with the senko/weight option (and that isn't a bad idea, some sort of stick bait pitching rig is always on my deck ). I'd be pegging that weight right up against that bait all the time. Bobber stops are easy to learn how to use, but tooth picks are cheaper. Good luck.
plawren53202 reply :
Like others, I'd like a little more specific info on water, cover, etc. to give you specific guidance. But I want to throw something out there for consideration. Lately I got back into fishing after for the most part taking off for 10 or so years--kids, kids' sports etc. just ate up all my free time for a while. Now that I'm back in it, I'm really into chasing bigger bass, at least as much as possible for a bank-only fisherman from Missouri.
Even with 40+ years of fishing experience in various formats, it can be really frustrating. But this is what I wanted to throw out there--when I was younger, I didn't cut my teeth chasing larger bass. I spent a lot of time heading out to the small stream near my grandparents' house with an ultralight and a box of light tackle (panfish jigs, Rebel Wee R Craws, etc.) chasing sunfish and the occasional little smallmouth, whatever would bite. Typically these fish were more willing to bite than the largemouth I'm chasing now. I feel like I really got a good education in the basics of fishing, casting, detecting bites, landing fish, etc. from all of these times--and then those skills transfer to my current pursuits.
So, I'm not necessarily saying go find a small stream and chase bluegill or pumpkinseeds (though it might not be a bad idea), but maybe consider really downsizing for a while? It would be great if you could ask around and find a place that has a lot of smaller bass. Take some time chasing them with a lighter spinning rod, smaller lures like Beetle Spins and crappie-sized jigs, 4-inch Texas rigged worms, etc. The good thing is you can get a totally sufficient batch of that tackle at Walmart for next to nothing. Chasing and catching little ones for a short time might give you a good foundation that you can then use to go throw bigger baits and recognize bites when the bites don't come so frequently.
Spankey reply :
I have to commend you for your post. I can’t really add anything relevant that has not been brought up. You have gotten a lot of good advise. It is my hopes that you don’t throw in the towel. Approach next season a bit simpler. Here in the NorthEast it’s getting tough with recent Arctic Blast. So I have my sight set on this upcoming season and things I’m gonna try different. Hang tough. I’m pretty sure it will work out.
Luke Barnes reply :
Another thing, do you hammer the same spot for hours or if they aren't biting move spots?
Because it doesnt matter what you throw, if there are no fish, or the fish aren't biting in a spot, move. That's where power fishing excels. Fish a spot for 5 minutes and if nothing, move. I fish a pond sometimes 2-3 times around it. Nothing at a spot I'll move and come back later and see if anything has changed. Dont sit and beat the same patch of water over and over and over.
Bigassbass reply :
Well of course everyone gave their opinion and ideas as what you should do. The best answer was the one that said relax and fish like you did when you were younger. Live bait is super fun especially catching brim! Fishing isn't a contest, it's being outside in nature, taking your friend, kids, wife or yourself out side for some fun. Buy a six pack of beer, take a lawn chair, worms and relax!
greentrout reply :
BassResource archives are awesome ... hope this helps ... read all the recommended reading ...
good fishing ...
https://www.bassresource.com/fishing/bank_fishing.html
Mobasser reply :
I would suggest pairing down you lures, and stick with a T rig worm, spimnerbait, lipless bait and 1 or 2 proven topwater baits. I spent three seasons learning to fish a T rig almost 40yrs ago. Once those first couple of fish are caught, you'll be on your way. Don't give up. It takes some time to get good at bass fishing. Keep fishing as much as you can- it's still the best way to learn.
skekoam reply :
Look at it this way OP,
At least you don't live in Southern California. My son and I got into bass fishing about 6 or so months ago. In all, I've spent well over a grand in gear and buying any bait that someone would recommend. It became a big money pit. Just to make it worse, each time my son and I would go out, we would get skunked. I felt bad more for my son than anything else as he has become literally obsessed with fishing. I will say we have caught some nice ones, but these were mainly on golf courses where we asked permission first. The difference is amazing when you fished an unpressured lake/pond vs. a pressured one. I've thought about quitting too, but like everyone else, I enjoy the out doors and rush when you finally get a fish on.
Sorry I can't offer any advice as we are noob's as well.
Keep at it and good luck.
webertime reply :
I just looked at the navionics of your area. Couple things jump to kind:
*Not a lot of water that isn't a river, there's Kerr and the Roanoke reservoirs but not a lot else... could be that the waters have been pressured to an extreme (so it's not you...).
*The rivers could be tidal, and those can be a pita to figure out for even super experienced anglers.
I would join a club, there should be a ton in your area. You can watch youtube and read until the cows come home, but fishing with a person that knows how to do something is waaaaaaaaaaaaa(catch breath) aaaaaaaaaay better.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 9:01 PM, ike8120 said:I just got back into bass fishing this year.
I only caught 2 bass this season, I am a bank fishermen. But I would rather be fishing and enjoying the outdoors then sitting on a couch watching nothing on TV. I am basically finding out what I like and don't like in the way of tackle, etc.
I feel like I am just paying my dues. Don't get frustrated, in time you will be killing them.
I am the same way. I want to rebuild a lasting tradition that my grandfather experienced with me (skipped my dad), that I can pass to my sons and grandsons. Better than video games. I work in IT so it's nice to get out of the server room and into nature.
Chris at Tech reply :
Book a trip with a local guide
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 9:16 AM, WRB said:I can see why you are frustrated. You started out using a Senko apparently T-rigged with a 1/8 oz weight. 1 simple basic presentation that the majority of BR members tote as a fail safe presetnation. Anyone who believes the lure and presentation is the key to catching bass is mistaken. Bass don't strike lures because the angler thinks it's good, they strike because it looks alive to them. The key here is it looks alive to the bass and to do that you must put the lure into the basses strike zone.....location and timing is the key.
You talked to local anglers, try asking them to take you along with them and show you how they catch bass. Talk is cheap and often misleading, on the water tutoring from a good angler willing to teach you is priceless.
You have the right stuff, don't add more.
You didn't include any info regarding your regional location, my suggestion is add where you are located, it helps.
Tom
Thank you! I did use the texas rigged senko but I used it when I first picked it back up and at the height of my frustration. It sounds like I need to pick it back up again! Location is added now.
On 11/14/2019 at 10:14 PM, Dirtyeggroll said:Find someone to go with who has been catching them to give you a little confidence booster.
Ok. I will try and look some folks up.
On 11/15/2019 at 6:00 AM, Chris at Tech said:Book a trip with a local guide
Ok!
On 11/15/2019 at 3:03 AM, Mobasser said:I would suggest pairing down you lures, and stick with a T rig worm, spimnerbait, lipless bait and 1 or 2 proven topwater baits. I spent three seasons learning to fish a T rig almost 40yrs ago. Once those first couple of fish are caught, you'll be on your way. Don't give up. It takes some time to get good at bass fishing. Keep fishing as much as you can- it's still the best way to learn.
I've been trying the "small takeaways" hey my casting is getting more accurate. Hey I didn't get hung up today.
On 11/15/2019 at 5:32 AM, webertime said:I just looked at the navionics of your area. Couple things jump to kind:
*Not a lot of water that isn't a river, there's Kerr and the Roanoke reservoirs but not a lot else... could be that the waters have been pressured to an extreme (so it's not you...).
*The rivers could be tidal, and those can be a pita to figure out for even super experienced anglers.
I would join a club, there should be a ton in your area. You can watch youtube and read until the cows come home, but fishing with a person that knows how to do something is waaaaaaaaaaaaa(catch breath) aaaaaaaaaay better.
I'm getting a lot of club and guide recommendations. Thanks!
On 11/15/2019 at 3:28 AM, skekoam said:Look at it this way OP,
At least you don't live in Southern California. My son and I got into bass fishing about 6 or so months ago. In all, I've spent well over a grand in gear and buying any bait that someone would recommend. It became a big money pit. Just to make it worse, each time my son and I would go out, we would get skunked. I felt bad more for my son than anything else as he has become literally obsessed with fishing. I will say we have caught some nice ones, but these were mainly on golf courses where we asked permission first. The difference is amazing when you fished an unpressured lake/pond vs. a pressured one. I've thought about quitting too, but like everyone else, I enjoy the out doors and rush when you finally get a fish on.
Sorry I can't offer any advice as we are noob's as well.
Keep at it and good luck.
Keep on keepin' on is as good of advice as any!
On 11/15/2019 at 3:03 AM, Mobasser said:I would suggest pairing down you lures, and stick with a T rig worm, spimnerbait, lipless bait and 1 or 2 proven topwater baits. I spent three seasons learning to fish a T rig almost 40yrs ago. Once those first couple of fish are caught, you'll be on your way. Don't give up. It takes some time to get good at bass fishing. Keep fishing as much as you can- it's still the best way to learn.
I've been trying the small victories approach to fishing! Thank you!
On 11/15/2019 at 2:38 AM, greentrout said:BassResource archives are awesome ... hope this helps ... read all the recommended reading ...
good fishing ...
https://www.bassresource.com/fishing/bank_fishing.html
Thanks for the link! Favorited!
On 11/15/2019 at 2:26 AM, Bigassbass said:Well of course everyone gave their opinion and ideas as what you should do. The best answer was the one that said relax and fish like you did when you were younger. Live bait is super fun especially catching brim! Fishing isn't a contest, it's being outside in nature, taking your friend, kids, wife or yourself out side for some fun. Buy a six pack of beer, take a lawn chair, worms and relax!
I do like beer... and my wife I guess. 
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/15/2019 at 1:31 AM, Luke Barnes said:Another thing, do you hammer the same spot for hours or if they aren't biting move spots?
Because it doesnt matter what you throw, if there are no fish, or the fish aren't biting in a spot, move. That's where power fishing excels. Fish a spot for 5 minutes and if nothing, move. I fish a pond sometimes 2-3 times around it. Nothing at a spot I'll move and come back later and see if anything has changed. Dont sit and beat the same patch of water over and over and over.
Let's say I've got 3 spots within easy driving distance of each other. 5-10 acres a piece. With 4 hours to fish. How long do you stay at each one?
On 11/15/2019 at 12:46 AM, Spankey said:I have to commend you for your post. I can’t really add anything relevant that has not been brought up. You have gotten a lot of good advise. It is my hopes that you don’t throw in the towel. Approach next season a bit simpler. Here in the NorthEast it’s getting tough with recent Arctic Blast. So I have my sight set on this upcoming season and things I’m gonna try different. Hang tough. I’m pretty sure it will work out.
Thank you my friend!
On 11/15/2019 at 12:45 AM, plawren53202 said:Like others, I'd like a little more specific info on water, cover, etc. to give you specific guidance. But I want to throw something out there for consideration. Lately I got back into fishing after for the most part taking off for 10 or so years--kids, kids' sports etc. just ate up all my free time for a while. Now that I'm back in it, I'm really into chasing bigger bass, at least as much as possible for a bank-only fisherman from Missouri.
Even with 40+ years of fishing experience in various formats, it can be really frustrating. But this is what I wanted to throw out there--when I was younger, I didn't cut my teeth chasing larger bass. I spent a lot of time heading out to the small stream near my grandparents' house with an ultralight and a box of light tackle (panfish jigs, Rebel Wee R Craws, etc.) chasing sunfish and the occasional little smallmouth, whatever would bite. Typically these fish were more willing to bite than the largemouth I'm chasing now. I feel like I really got a good education in the basics of fishing, casting, detecting bites, landing fish, etc. from all of these times--and then those skills transfer to my current pursuits.
So, I'm not necessarily saying go find a small stream and chase bluegill or pumpkinseeds (though it might not be a bad idea), but maybe consider really downsizing for a while? It would be great if you could ask around and find a place that has a lot of smaller bass. Take some time chasing them with a lighter spinning rod, smaller lures like Beetle Spins and crappie-sized jigs, 4-inch Texas rigged worms, etc. The good thing is you can get a totally sufficient batch of that tackle at Walmart for next to nothing. Chasing and catching little ones for a short time might give you a good foundation that you can then use to go throw bigger baits and recognize bites when the bites don't come so frequently.
Noted! Thank you for the wonder response! I have thought about asking a saltwater friend to take me out and help me catch well... anything.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 11:55 PM, Fishes in trees said:First, my guess that that you might want to learn seasonal patterns for your area. Putting hours in fishing where they ain't is frustrating and counter productive. Next, never mentioned if you were bank bound or had boat access. Makes a huge difference. If you're new to boat fishing, the whole process of operating & fishing out of a boat can be real intimidating. Viewing videos can help but the only real solution is time on the water.
Next, you mentioned a few rods & reels and (in my opinion) a modest bait selection and you felt "armed to the teeth"
Trust me when I say you ain't. I fish out of an 18' floating tackle box and I routinely fish with 20 or so rods scattered around the deck, with the requisite amount of gear (or more) for each rod and believe me when I say I'm aware that there are many holes in my current arsenal. I'm close to maxed out on the number of rigs I can carry, so I need to get smarter about what I carry when. Much easier said than done. The point of this last paragraph is to point out that every person who fishes has stuff that they need to work on and get better at.
When I was first seriously learning about bass fishing, I focused on one bait - although I carried a few others. My bait of choice was a Charlie Brewer Slider head with the 4" Brewer worm. I had a 6' graphite rod (not real common in 1977) and threw the slider head 90% of the time - almost always on 6 lb test. I'd use the 1/8 oz head fishing from the bank and the 1/4 oz head when I had boat access. If I had to do it these days, I'd go with 10 or 12 lb braid instead of the 6 lb mono. A short trip to the Brewer web site will reveal that there are a dozen or more Brewer Slider heads, trust me when I mention that Charlie Brewer had a good reason for each variation of the slider concept.
Another reason why I mention the slider head/worm combo is that I think that the jig worm concept is easier to learn on than a tx rig with the weight sliding on the line. In tx rig fishing with the sliding weight, you're never sure where the weight is in relation to the hook. Using a jig worm, you know that the hook is an inch and a half behind the weight. That did wonders for my confidence - knowing where the hook was.
If you're going to stick with the senko/weight option (and that isn't a bad idea, some sort of stick bait pitching rig is always on my deck ). I'd be pegging that weight right up against that bait all the time. Bobber stops are easy to learn how to use, but tooth picks are cheaper. Good luck.
That is a VERY interesting thought! Thank you so much!
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:15 PM, TnRiver46 said:Are there other people fishing the spots that you have tried?
A few here and there. Especially at Lake Smith.
FishinBuck07 reply :
I have been bass fishing since I was a kid, I am now almost 40 and within the last three years I have really gotten serious about bass fishing. I bought my first boat in July and this has been the worst year of fishing by far. I thought with buying the boat it was going to be easier to find and catch fish, boy was I wrong! I got very frustrated and was very upset with myself for spending money on the boat and not fishing better! Then a good friend I have known since we were toddlers sat me down and explained I was complicating things too much. He is a very good bass fisherman far as people I have fished with over the years, and he has taught me a lot. He made me realize fishing out of the boat now I was starting over again as far as how I fish certain techniques and baits. I was so used to fishing from shore and fishing from the angles off shore, I didn't realize that I had to change approaches to structure and other places that hold fish compared to bank fishing. But once I calmed down and really looked at it and paid attention to what I was doing, I then realized what I was doing wrong and could correct it. I guess what I am saying is after all those years of fishing bass and thinking I was pretty good at it, I had a whole lot of stuff to learn again. So don't get frustrated and give it time, and not to be a jerk, but if you are looking for instant gratification then bass fishing may not be what you want to do. There are days where they will just beat the snot out of you and leave your pride bruised! Stick with it, I promise it will get better and you will be glad you stuck with it! Ok going to quit rambling now!
t_bone_713 reply :
Thank you everyone for your replies. I have tried to respond and individually thank every single one of you. If I missed you I am sorry. I am going to try again this spring. I am going to decide on two lures. One finesse, one power (moving) and research them throughout the winter so I am ready. Thank you so much everyone!
On 11/15/2019 at 6:41 AM, FishinBuck07 said:I have been bass fishing since I was a kid, I am now almost 40 and within the last three years I have really gotten serious about bass fishing. I bought my first boat in July and this has been the worst year of fishing by far. I thought with buying the boat it was going to be easier to find and catch fish, boy was I wrong! I got very frustrated and was very upset with myself for spending money on the boat and not fishing better! Then a good friend I have known since we were toddlers sat me down and explained I was complicating things too much. He is a very good bass fisherman far as people I have fished with over the years, and he has taught me a lot. He made me realize fishing out of the boat now I was starting over again as far as how I fish certain techniques and baits. I was so used to fishing from shore and fishing from the angles off shore, I didn't realize that I had to change approaches to structure and other places that hold fish compared to bank fishing. But once I calmed down and really looked at it and paid attention to what I was doing, I then realized what I was doing wrong and could correct it. I guess what I am saying is after all those years of fishing bass and thinking I was pretty good at it, I had a whole lot of stuff to learn again. So don't get frustrated and give it time, and not to be a jerk, but if you are looking for instant gratification then bass fishing may not be what you want to do. There are days where they will just beat the snot out of you and leave your pride bruised! Stick with it, I promise it will get better and you will be glad you stuck with it! Ok going to quit rambling now!
Thank you. It helps to know that sometimes taking a step back is the best thing you can do!
plawren53202 reply :
On 11/15/2019 at 6:41 AM, t_bone_713 said:A few here and there. Especially at Lake Smith.
I did a little reading on Lake Smith. Sounds like it is a pretty shallow lake and not much offshore cover. From Google maps it looks like the lake does have trees around a lot of it, which means that bass may hold tight to cover on the bank. What this may mean for you, and something a lot of bank fisherman don't think about, is that sometimes you need to take a really stealthy approach on the bank. Especially if the water is clear, or depending on the sun. That may mean literally sneaking up to the bank, watching your positioning to make sure you're not throwing a shadow on the water, or standing a few feet back from the bank as you catch. Also step lightly as you approach the bank and don't stomp up and send vibrations out into the water. I would also recommend trying lots of casts as parallel to the bank as possible...I see lots of bank anglers who just instinctively throw their casts straight out from the bank at a 90 degree angle.
You may already be doing all of this, but just wanted to raise the possibility. Also, shallower ponds and lakes are more susceptible to the fluctuations of temperature, meaning that they can be really hard to fish in the heat of summer and cold of winter.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 11:18 PM, Fishin' Fool said:I have so many fishing lures. Crankbaits, jerkaits, spinnerbaits, top water, I could go on and on. I have pretty much narrowed down what i fish with a senko and drop shot. It's amazing how many fish I catch. Stick with a few techniques and really master them before you consider adding more. Anyone live out by this guy that could help speed his learning curve? I live in West Michigan, you're welcome to fish with me but unfortunately I fish from a kayak.
That would be amazing!
PhishLI reply :
t bone,
We have lots of bass fishing spots in my area, with the biggest lake being a mere 240 acres. There are plenty of 20-ish acre ponds we call lakes. I've had the chance to fish at many of these spots throughout the island I live on. There are lakes about 70 miles east of my house where daytime fishing can be very productive. However, where I live the dusk/night bite is the deal. So, some lakes are good night bite lakes exclusively and some can be very good during the day.
I'm pretty well networked with the local hardcore grinders. I'm one of them. I know what goes on and who catches what and when for the most part. My local spot is well known as the second most highly pressured water in the entire county. It's broken many spirits. While bass are occasionally caught during daylight hours, it's rare. But hit this spot at dusk and fish for a few hours afterward and your reward can be great. Crazy action and legit big bass. You'd never believe it if you'd fished it only during the morning or throughout the day. At one point I was convinced one particular local spot was devoid of fish, or that aliens had beamed all the bass to pluto, until I fished it at night.
So, maybe you can try to mix your fishing times up a bit?
Luke Barnes reply :
I meant moving spots at the pond. Dont stand in one spot. Fish the entire pond from every angle. Dont pound one little section of pond over and over for 4 hours. Move as in around the pond. Cast at any weeds, trees, anything that isnt water!! Haha. If that pond sucks move to the next and walk the entire bank fishing every spot from different angles at that pond.
billmac reply :
You might have bought into the hype that if you use a senko, all you have to do is sit back and fight off all the fish that will be fighting for your lure. Senko or not, fishing a plastic worm isn't something I would recommend for a beginner. I would start with a curly tail jig or jig and spinner, something you can just cast and reel. Don't worry about colors, just get something medium dark-ish and just throw at every piece of structure you can find. Make the lure small enough to attract all kinds of fish. Don't get bogged down into deep water presentations until you get some confidence.
Don't flog the water. Move a lot, and cast and reel. Stick with it.
WRB reply :
So you are located in Virgina and mentioned Smith lake, do you mean Smith Mountain lake? Is this the lake you are having a difficult time catching bass in?
Tom
LCG reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:24 AM, t_bone_713 said:Thanks for the kind words! That a size 2? or a 2/0? Choose two. Got it.
Size 2, not 2/0. Fits the TRD about the same as a 1/16 oz jig but allows you to fish without getting hung up as much.
Also, a weightless senko is my second favorite Finesse technique.
Good luck to you and stick around the forums here, lots of good info and tips.
OCdockskipper reply :
This may sound overly simplistic, but if someone spends 200 hours fishing and they only catch 1 bass, the first thing I think of is that there were no bass where you were fishing. Not no bass in the lake, just the places you chose to fish.
I'd focus a little less on the minute details of the gear and lures and a lot more on finding the bass. Start with season patterns to get you in the general locations and then fine tune it from there.
Bass are curious by nature (remember, they are in the sunfish family) and if you put something near enough of them, a percentage of them are going to bite. Even if you are doing the worst possible technique, at the wrong time of year, if you are near any bass, there are always a few that are interested in committing suicide.
greentrout reply :
scaleface reply :
I have a system down for catching bass on rip rap dams from the bank . Lipless cranks work well but a few will be lost . After losing my most treasured Bayou Boogie I switched to more inexpensive lures like jig&grubs , prerigged swimbaits , beetle Spins...most any lure that sinks . Rip rap holds bait which attract bass . I start out casting next to bank , then start casting deeper and deeper . Let the lure settle to the bottom , thats where the high percentage strike zone is at . As you retrieve the lure , pause it a coupe of times and allow it to reach the bottom . This way your offering is in the strike zone the "entire" retrieve. also many hits will happen when the bait is killed . So if any of the waters you fish have riprap dams this is an excellent way to catch a few . Works for other speices to like crappie and big gills .
Wizzlebiz reply :
Hey bud I was new to bass fishing this year. I spent the 1st 3 months trying and failing. And trying and failing. And trying and yet again failing.
My issue was simple. I would abandon the presentation way to fast. Id tie on a new lure completely different from what I had and if in a half hour I didnt catch a bass I tie another.
Id also assume its the body of water I was fishing and try another. But I never actually went full through a body of water to catch a bass with one presentation. Slowing down can mean many things. For me it was slow down my frustration ls and stick to one presentation with one lure. Id change the color of that lure but I wouldnt change the type of lure. I slowed down and not only began to catch fish but knew my bodies of water and where the fish "should" be.
My advise is slow down. Slow down your moving of bodies of water, stick to one, slow down your lure changes, and just learn your body of water. If you dont have a friend or a guide to help you I believe this is the fastest way to self learn.
t_bone_713 reply :
On 11/15/2019 at 6:58 AM, plawren53202 said:I did a little reading on Lake Smith. Sounds like it is a pretty shallow lake and not much offshore cover. From Google maps it looks like the lake does have trees around a lot of it, which means that bass may hold tight to cover on the bank. What this may mean for you, and something a lot of bank fisherman don't think about, is that sometimes you need to take a really stealthy approach on the bank. Especially if the water is clear, or depending on the sun. That may mean literally sneaking up to the bank, watching your positioning to make sure you're not throwing a shadow on the water, or standing a few feet back from the bank as you catch. Also step lightly as you approach the bank and don't stomp up and send vibrations out into the water. I would also recommend trying lots of casts as parallel to the bank as possible...I see lots of bank anglers who just instinctively throw their casts straight out from the bank at a 90 degree angle.
You may already be doing all of this, but just wanted to raise the possibility. Also, shallower ponds and lakes are more susceptible to the fluctuations of temperature, meaning that they can be really hard to fish in the heat of summer and cold of winter.
Noted! Thank you SO very much for taking your precious time to help me. I am grateful!
Bass_Fishing_Socal reply :
Let me be devil advocates here,
First you watch 100 of hours of you tube. You might try to copy it too much, believe me catching bass is not as easy as in show on you tube. Sometime it take 5-10 mins per cast to work whatever lures and about 100 casts to catch just one bass.
Secondly let look at your first 11 session June-Aug ( the 2nd session is harder to tell since most place would be in fall transition and bass started moving), most bass in summer would stay close to cover and more active in early morning or late evening until night time. I can tell you if I go out everyday at noon for those 3 month, I might not catch a single soul. Bottom line timing is also important base on season.
Third, as other mentioned slow and work thru out the water is the key. You might fall into those newbie mistake of casting for the distance, 30-50yds btw you work your lure back to most strike zone5-15 feet from shore, you get tired and started looking for next cast. As hot as it is and as shallow, you will be surprised bass hang/roaming close to shore looking for bait fish. Most of the fish I caught were close to shoreline some even less than 5’. If I were you I would work parallel to shoreline more than casting out in front of you. Don’t give up if you don’t get bass in a few cast, you are looking for roaming bass not a group of suspended bass unless you cast into cover (tree/shade)
Lastly, I should be the one who call out “ I GIVE UP” and yes I did that from time to time even now ????. I started bass fishing since 2001 up until 4-5 years ago, I only caught maybe a handful of showable size bass. Being in the city with not many park lakes but a tons of ppl is not fun. Sometime I ventured out 50-70 miles drive in heavy SoCal traffic and yield nothing. I’m the only one in family that love fishing so most of the trip I went alone. I still remembered my usual spot on weekend, I’ll pack my lunch headed to jetti (seal beach) and sit there 6-8 hours most every weekend.
Good luck to you, let wait until spring time and start you plan again, it is gonna get tougher to catch bass during cold month, save your energy for the big one when spawning time begin.
dicklarson reply :
Hey man,
In case you check this forum post.
I'm in Norfolk, and I just decided I need to get back into bass fishing, because the saltwater fishing bite from shore is pretty miserable this time of year.
I got into a bass on my first try on Saturday. I was pretty surprised, I wasn't planning to catch anything.
I've compiled some spots to check out, as I plan on fishing much more between now and mid april (gonna switch gears to saltier stuff, which I actually feel pretty confident about my abilities in).
You're absolutely welcome to join me, I'm also 27 y/o, bout your age, not super experienced, but have been fishing a fair bit since I was about 21.
Anyway, I really enjoy fishing alone, but I also really enjoy fishing with company. If you want to fish for some bass any time, let me know. I'd also be down to fish the saltier water. Last year from may-november I didn't get skunked on a single outing (in the saltwater). Excited to learn more about bass fishing this area, although from what I can tell, shore access is hard to find. Can't get a kayak until I have somewhere to put it though.
But yeah, again, I'll be bank fishing for bass hopefully at least weekly for the duration of spring, let me know if you want to get out, I don't check this forum daily, but if you hit me up I'll probably get back to you within a week.
GTN reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 10:39 AM, MN Fisher said:
I personally use I-Boating's maps and app on my Tablet
http://fishing-app.gpsnauticalcharts.com/i-boating-fishing-web-app/fishing-marine-charts-navigation.html#4.05/40.821/-96.957
With either one, just scroll around and zoom in to your lake.
Is the I-Boating app free? “It says In-App Purchases” US $19.99 and I wasn’t sure what that meant
On 11/14/2019 at 10:39 AM, MN Fisher said:
I personally use I-Boating's maps and app on my Tablet
http://fishing-app.gpsnauticalcharts.com/i-boating-fishing-web-app/fishing-marine-charts-navigation.html#4.05/40.821/-96.957
With either one, just scroll around and zoom in to your lake.
Is the I-Boating app free? “It says In-App Purchases” US $19.99 and I wasn’t sure what that meant
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/5/2020 at 3:27 AM, GTN said:Is the I-Boating app free? “It says In-App Purchases” US $19.99 and I wasn’t sure what that meant
Is the I-Boating app free? “It says In-App Purchases” US $19.99 and I wasn’t sure what that meant
The app is free - the maps cost the $20. But that gives you the entire US in the same sector grids as the USGS maps, so you only download the section(s) you need.
It does have GPS location, waypoint setting and a recording function. This is my trip of July 31 where I caught my best-of-the-year...the one in my profile pic.
collinfiske_RFC reply :
If I were you, I would spend a lot of time this winter researching "high percentage areas". If you throw the rig you described enough times at one of these areas you will get bit. When fishing a lake, river pond ect., there is going to be more water to fish than humanly possible. To find these high percentage areas it becomes very important that you understand fish behavior. I know it sounds super silly but hang with me. Fish are going to be in different parts of the water during different times of the year. They will also change their locations during changes in water temp, color, current ect. This can be due to a fish trying to maintain its body temperature, spawn seasons or chasing bait. Look for structure along the shoreline fish can relate to or rockpiles where they are chasing bait and staying warm. There is so much literature out there that can help you find the 10% of the lake where the fish are so you can focus your time and resources on it. Good luck!
CPF
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