If you are just beginning to explore the world of bass fishing and angling, you must have heard about the right gear making all the difference between a fruitless fishing session and a bountiful one. If, however, you have been doing it for some time, you already know this first-hand. If you look in the market, you will find literally hundreds of kinds of bass fishing gears and baits. How do you decide which ones to take and which ones to leave? Read on to learn about the 5 key pieces of bass fishing gear and what to look for.
The Right Fishing Rod
Your fishing rod will literally be the first thing in your hand. You have to choose one that feels right in terms of weight and length, and at the same time, it has to be sensitive enough to signal the engagement of the fish with the bait. Then, the rod should allow you to engage the fish until it tires out, without breaking in the process.
People generally go for a medium power rod as their first choice. However, you should also try a heavy powered one just to compare the differences between the two. The next thing to consider is the tip of the rod that facilitates fastening and unfastening of the hooks. Another parameter to look at is the grip of the handle.
The Right Fishing Line
Moving on to the next element, we will now talk about the fishing line that will be most useful for you. Essentially, there are three kinds of fishing lines available in the market: braided, monofilament, and fluorocarbon. Monofilament fishing lines were the first kind to be developed, and have largely become obsolete today. The braided ones have an advantage of not stretching and thus, imparting higher strength. However, fluorocarbon lines are most useful when it comes to invisibility. These lines are almost impossible to see in water, thus, increasing the likelihood of getting a bite.
Whichever kind of fishing line you ultimately choose, make sure that it is long enough. Generally, a minimum length of 300 yards is recommended. Also, don’t forget to check the pound test of the fishing line before buying it. The pound test indicates the weight a line can withstand without breaking. The recommended value for bass fishing is 8 pounds.
The Right Fishing Reel
Again, the sheer variety of fishing reels will make your head spin. The ideal reel will let you hook a big bass and land them with finesse. You will find reels composed of many materials, like aluminium, carbon compounds, and graphite. While aluminium is considered to be the strongest, graphite is most resistant to underwater corrosion and is lightweight.
You should also check the quality of the reel before purchasing it, and look for any ill-fitting or loose parts. Ideally, it should be durable and neat in design; having a smooth movement is an added advantage.
The Right Bait
Just as other gear for bass fishing spoils you with options, why should bait be any different? Before you check out tackle shops and get flustered and confused by the variety of bait available, do a bit of research about the kind of bait most preferred by bass. Rigged, worm-like baits are classic bestsellers for good reason. The choice of your bait will also depend on whether you want to try fishing in dense lakes or just on the top waters.
Some widely recommended baits and lures include plastic worms, crankbaits in the color of natural water (and also some in the color of murky water), jigs, frogs, spinner baits, etc. You will be able to figure out all this, and more, once you start researching first-hand reviews and recommendations. Most of the available baits and lures have worked for different people, and you have to make a calculated guesses at buying a few. Whether it works for you or not, only time will tell.
Hooks and Terminal Tackle
These will come in very handy when you need to add a bit of weight to catch bass. If you have the right assortment of hooks (worm hooks and dropshot hooks, for example), swivels like barrel swivels and split rings, and weights like dropshot and bullet weights in your box, you will be able to adjust the fishing gear to your conditions, and to your satisfaction.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen cream or spray is an important part of any fishing trip, to prevent sunburns and skin injury due to prolonged exposure to the sun. Good-quality sunglasses, preferably polarized, will provide you the best visibility even in the most reflective or murky waters.
Desirable Gear for Fishing Trips
While the gear mentioned above will get you through a fishing session, certain gear will make your fishing session more comfortable and even more enjoyable. None of the following are required for bass fishing per se, but are highly recommended by novices and pros alike:
- A bait bucket for keeping live bait will be very handy in case you decide to try your luck at bass fishing with live baits instead of plastic ones.
- A casting net for catching live bait, if you decide to.
- Weighing scales that will let you hang your catch and display the numbers that will make enviable photographs.
- Multi-tools or knives, for unforeseen maneuvers that you might need to perform on your bass fishing trip.
- Gloves for handling fish.
- Hook remover and pliers to remove the caught fish from the hook in case it is swallowed beyond reach.
- Flash light to improve visibility in darker conditions.
- First aid box, to manage those little cuts and bruises that can come with outdoor adventure.
- Insect repellent for protecting your skin against ravenous mosquitoes and other curious insects.
- Small towels for miscellaneous uses.
- A good camera to flaunt your prized catches.
- Some extra fishing line, just in case of breakage or other unforeseen reasons.
With these key pieces of bass fishing gear in your tackle box and on your boat, you will be ready for a great bass fishing session. Help out your fellow anglers – if there is something we missed that should be on this list, or if you have a favorite lure or line you just can’t fish without, let us know in the comments below. Good luck out there!
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