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Fishing PollFishing Poll
How was the fishing this year by you?
fishing tips
  Best ever
  Good like always
  below average
  I need to move
fishing tips

Total Votes: 916
View and Vote on Archived Polls


Roger Lee Brown ''The Bass Coach''
Roger Lee Brown is the founder and former President of the Pro-Tec School of Bassin', Inc.
<< Back to List   Ask Roger Lee Brown ''The Bass Coach'' a question

I have a problem getting a hook set with a weedless jig the guard seems to be to stiff any solution THANK YOU
butch, Ohio
Read Answer What are the best lures for fishin in the fall?
Slade Allen, Tennessee
Read Answer Hi how would you fish shallow areas like 5-7 feet in runing water? What baits are ment for that situation? How would you fish heavy weeds bait wise? Zach bowden thanks so much
Zach, Arkansas
Read Answer Hi how would you fish shallow areas with big largemouth? Do colors matter and when should you use those colors? What lures do you recomend in runing water? Zach Thanks
Zach, Georgia
Read Answer Tom, first off I would like to say I am privilaged to speak with you. I have a few questions I would like to ask, but first let me tell you a little bit about myself. I have been fishing tournaments for three years now and would like to consider myself an all around fisherman and I am not afraid to step outside the box. I do however get hung up on what reels and rods to use in certain situations. I am by no means a wealthy man, I make do but that is about it. What I am getting at by saying this is that I can't afford to buy rods and reels to learn what best suits the type of lure I choose. I know the basics, heavy cover flipping, heavy rod. I'm not sure what to look for in a reel for this though. I use Diawa's crankin rod for crankin but am not sure what reel to use. I know it will be different for shallow running crankbaits to deep divers. I can use all the info you can give me on this subject. I am planning on buying 5 new rods and reels this winter and would like to stay in the 150.00 price range for each rod and reel. Kistler rods is giving me a discount to purchase their rods so I can save a little there. Thanks in advance!!
John Sharpe, Tennessee
Read Answer I usually buy several packs of the plastic baits I like (mostly Zoom)when they're on sale. How long can I expect plastic baits to last in storage and what's the best way to store them? Thanks a lot.
Nolan, Alabama
Read Answer hi Roger, I have a huge question that no one can ever answer. what do i have to do to learn and retrain to fish , win , and consentantley weight in solid fish no matter what the season. I mean what do they really know that I dont
craig , Alabama
Read Answer I am fishing in my first bass tournament next weekend at a lake that Ive not spent alot of time on, and the times I have been on this lake its been really tough (like 2-3 bass in 8 hours). I'm also not that great at cooler weather fishing. I was wondering, how long should I spend fishing one type of bait/lure, without results, before switching sizes, color, or lure /bait all together??
Roy Walters, Indiana
Read Answer Hi, what type of soft plastic would you use on a drop shot set up to fish for largemouth in weeds?
Nick Christou, Ontario
Read Answer Hi Roger, My lake ( a giant bowl from 3 feet - 64 feet), went from being weedless lake to a now lake covered with sea of 3 variations. I had great fishing when there was no weedds, but not know. HOW DO I FISH A WEEDED LAKE?
margaret, Wisconsin
Read Answer I am in dire need of professional advice. I love fishing but dont know too much but to put a worm on and go with it. I have only caught 4 bass large enough to keep in my entire life. Never a pike walleye etc. I went fishing the past couple weekends and all I caught were 5 bluegill and them damn goby parasites. What am I doing wrong? Is there a temperature guideline? types of hooks? bait? I see guys bring home coolers full of fish and I cant understand why I cant, ill spend a whole day out on a dock or shore since I dont have a boat and feel like Im waisting time. Anything you could help me out with would be appreciated. Please and thank you
Daniel McCuller, Michigan
Read Answer how important is it to fish certain types of cover at certain times of the barometric pressure table and how could i learn it?
vincent mayben, Alabama
Read Answer Hey roger the fall is coming up and i was wandering what bait is going to produce the best bites
Wesley Borden, Alabama
Read Answer how would u work a fliping jig if you were shore fishing for bass
Nicolas, Ontario
Read Answer Is a spinnerbait still effective on bass if you fish from the shore. Is a fliping jig a good bass bait.
Nicolas, Ontario
Read Answer i just retired after sufferring a stroke which left my leftside paralyzed we live on a deep clear manmade resevior and i have a boat stable enough for me to be able to get onboard and into the drivers seat it has fishing chairs on each corner with a 100lb thrust troll motor setup. my friends and i have created a device that sits across my lap and holds both casting and spinning rigs. my dad started me bass fishing at age 6 and prior to the stroke i was a successful weekend fiherman. with my rodd holder rig i am limited to cast it out and reel it back or i can gently bounce my right leg to impart a slight twitch to the line, i have no way to feel a gentle pickup of a lure. so what do you suggest for midsummer heat. i got lots of the best electronics; including a GPS with a builtin topo map of the lake. what lure style and technique would you suggest i grewup a beat the banks early and late power fisherman in lakes wit lots of vegetative cover along the shore. i am determined to get back to fishing!
tom, South Carolina
Read Answer what pole is best to use for a top water frog
ronald d brown, Mississippi
Read Answer I was looking to buy a new rod and reel combo. I am looking for something a little heavier then what I normally use (medium action 8-12 lb test). I am looking for something that is versitle, rod/reel combo or both totaling about 100-120 dollars. This will mostly be used for bass but also other. What do you recommend would be a good baitcaster reel and rod for under 120? I can budget up to 150 but if I can find one cheaper the better. Thanks so much!
Alex, California
Read Answer i have a abu-garcia ambassadeur black max-L and i have been messing with the knob and i still backlash a lot any tips
bryant, Florida
Read Answer what line would you recomend,for top waters,worm,c rig,swim baits,finess on spinning
Wayne Cromer, Texas
Read Answer How do you know what color lure to use for bass in water
James, Georgia
Read Answer fishing a 40 acre impoundment---when the fish are not hitting near the shore what is your next move--- do you go deep and what is your lure of choice -deepest part of this lake is probably 25 ft.. thanks a bunch/...........
butch mosko, New York
Read Answer What advice do you have for someone who wants to become a pro fisherman?
Ryan Rowe, South Carolina
Read Answer how do i sign up for your school
Kendall King, Florida
Read Answer whenever I fish with a softbait topwater lure, anything from worm to slug go type plastics, I get bad line twist. I don't use a weight or anytype of swivel in order to keep the lure from sinker to much or being to visible. What can I do to stop this from happening and get back to enjoying topwater action?
Wayne Rossi, Rhode Island
Read Answer The water is in the 50's and a cold front has just come through along with some rain to muddy up the water and cool it down before the spawn. Where should the fish be?
C. Phillips, Illinois
Read Answer what is the best night to fish and catch bigger bass? 1-3 nights before the full moon or 1-3 nights after the full moon?
Darryl Atkins, Florida
Read Answer I notice some pros, when fishing plastics, put there finger on the line to feel the bite, and others don't. In your opinion can you feel bites better with your finger on the line?
Justin Eudy, North Carolina
Read Answer I'm just getting into fishing bass jigs. I'm having a hard time deciding between braid & floro. I'm fishing moderate cover, nothing real heavy. Which would you recommend?
Mike Coluccio, New Jersey
Read Answer Roger, Watching the 2009 Bassmasters Classic, I heard more than one pro say"fish to your strengths." My "strengths" are plastics, jig and pig and spinnerbaits. Should I take the crankbaits out of my tackle bag? Thanks, Jim
Jim Guenthner, Kansas
Read Answer I am entering my first Bass fishing tournament on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas in March. What is the best way to prepare for a tournament?
Greg James, Texas
Read Answer What is the proper way to rig a gobe bait?[gulp] I have heard much praise for this bait especially on the great lakes.
Luke, New York
Read Answer When you are using a frog or other weedless bait in thick weeds do you immediately set the hook, or do you wait a moment and then set the hook? I have had trouble catching them off of weedless lures, so I was wondering whether to set right away or to wait a second. I normally use a spinning rod and reel, but does it matter what type of reel or rod you are using? Do some rod types give better hooksets, or doesn’t that matter? Would a baitcastng reel perform better in these situations?
Sam Neisius, Wisconsin
Read Answer I have a question on brushpiles. Where in a lake do you want to position a brushpile? Would it be best to put them on a ledge, a drop, or maybe an old road bed? Also how much brush do you want to put out in one place. Thanks Collin
Collin, Maine
Read Answer I fish a small lake that is very clear, fish bowl shaped, 60 feet in the middle, the edges have lilly pads and on average about 6 feet deep untillyou get out maybe 30-40 yards. My question is, since cool fall weather is coming, what areas might be best, and lure color or selection, and retrieve would you recommend for largemouth bass? Thank you in advance. Ralph Belleville Mi
Ralph, Michigan
Read Answer i have been fishing on a small farm pond. There is very thick dense weedbeds all along the banks that go out about ten feet. ive had great success fishing the edges of the bed, but what is the best way to get down in and through the weeds. the weeds come to the very top of the water so sometimes a weedless lure works but i want to try to get down in the weeds where the fish seem to be holding
chad, North Carolina
Read Answer I touched up some old lures (crankbaits)with some spray enamel paint and some markers. Is there anything I can mask the smell with or are thay now useless ?
A.P., Alabama
Read Answer I want to know how to set my lowrance x510 for bassfishing for example I dont get clear fish arcers If you can help me with the best settings for bassfishing THANK YOU FROM SOUTH AFRICA
TJAART, Out of Country
Read Answer I was wanting to know how to get on large mouth and whats the best spots. All I have been catching is smallmouth. But they have to 18" to keep. They've been costing me the tournament but I need a strategy to catch largemouths. The water temp. is 80 alot of rocky banks and creeks.
Jeff, Kentucky
Read Answer Do the "pro" fisherman use snap swivels? I have a hard time tying knots due to my eyesight. Using a snap swivel speeds up my lure changing. Thank You
Brian Pokorny, New York
Read Answer what is the best kind of pole for tube fishing,l how long, spinning or casting heavy - med or light weight and what kind of line i can not see green very well if it is windy thank you dennis
dennis chase , Ohio
Read Answer Roger Fishing for small mouth in a lake in So. W.V. They occasionally (rarely) hit on live small fishing worms. What is a good reliable lure i can use to get these bad boys active? Water is 73 degrees clear and the water depth runs to about 11 ft. There is some weed beds near the shore line. Tnanks Mike
Mike Baisden, West Virginia
Read Answer Mr. Brown Which 5 lakes would you name as being the best bass fishing lakes in the country where I could retire and have my boat at my dock ready to go each morning? Thanks Steve
Steve Chick, Nebraska
Read Answer Hey Roger, I recently bought baby shad as bait, and im wondering what will bite that. Any ideas? By the way ive been dying to ask you something. I have a lake house on a private lake in NY, and I cought a 5.6 lb 22 in. Small mouth. Is that even close to what you would catch? Because to me thats a BIG smallie. It's the biggest fish out of the lake.
Jack, New Jersey
Read Answer I've heard that if I have a baitcast reel that has 12lb test printed on it, I should use 12lb test line for best performance. If I wanted to use a braided line, would I use 12lb braid or heavier braid to match the diameter of the mono line?
James Day, Iowa
Read Answer I was just told that the moon has an effect on fishing. Is this true?
Ed Ashley, California
Read Answer How do you decide which hook to use on a flipping or football jig? Many jigs on the market today have wide gap(big-bite) hooks, instead of standard hooks. Is it better to fish jigs with standard or big-bite hooks?
Dan S., Nebraska
Read Answer hi roger, i only have one rod, and i was wanting to know if you can tell me the best rod to use in every situation, like the length and either light medium or heavy action, or what ever you would recommend. thank you
derek keysor, Ohio
Read Answer Mr. Brown, I recently began bass fishing and, but although I've bought all types of lures and worms of all colors, I can't seem to ever catch anything. I have tried fishing in all kinds of conditions, early morning, afternoon, evening, full moon, warm temps, cool temps and different lakes and canals even out in the everglades. I've spent hundreds of dollars looking for the best lures and plastic worms. Please help, I don't know what to do anymore. Thank you, Ray
Ray, Florida
Read Answer I fish i private pond, and so far this spring we have not been able to catch but two largemouth, I was just wondering what would be the best lure for a pond in early spring?
Austin Fielder, Iowa
Read Answer I primarily use 10# test fishing for largemouth bass. I was wondering if using 10# test on a reel rated for maximum 10# effects the performance (casting/retrieval/spooling) of the reel. Should I spool for the medium range of the reel, or is it a non issue? Thanks.
Charles Elliott, Maryland
Read Answer Roger me and my friend was fishing the other day and caught 9 bass the water has just got in the 50's the bass we that we caught all had blood shot lips and mouths why were the looking for crawdads or just normal cold water bass thanks jason williamson
Jason Williamson, West Virginia
Read Answer I went fishing on sampsons lake in starke florida, and The fish had me kinda baffled. We caught about 6 and only 2 keepers. But the question is. The water temp was 59.9 to 61.0 and I was expecting some spawners to be moved up, and I seen what I thought to be open beds and I am wondering if they could have already spawned or if the strong cold front that moved through could have backed them off. It was march the 1st the day we went. And I know by the book they shoul have moved back a little deeper, but every fish we caught was in lily pads in about 2 foot of water. Oh yeah and the lake is very shallow and is 2 to 4 foot deep for about 500 yards off the bank and is it possible for the fish to bed that far off the bank. the water clarity is very clear. You can see about 5 feet down. Thanks and I will wait for a response. We will be fishing a tournament in mid march and any info would be helpful. I expect a big flurry of fish to move up eith the full moon around that time.
Taff Vaughn, Georgia
Read Answer I fish in a shallow lake where 8 ft. of water is considered very deep. Many 3-6lb fish are caught here in February and March, but in the summer, these are few and far between. Where do these fish go in the summertime, considering the lack of deep water.
Josh Sikes, Louisiana
Read Answer Other Than drop shotting could I use braided line for all of my applications and still be successful. I hear that running crankbaits and spinnerbaits on braid is good But in semi clear water would i get away with using braid for my plastic Fishing. Could you turn me onto a good braided line if you feel braid is good for all of my bass fishing applications. Thankyou Tyler Ferrier
Tyler Ferrier, Maryland
Read Answer I would like to ask a pro, where they find the contour maps they use for tournament preparations? Are they available from the state/county the lake or river is in? thanks
Mark Whitton, South Carolina
Read Answer What is the best action for a pitching rod-MF, F, or XF?
Dan S., Nebraska
Read Answer Do you need a separate rod for flipping and pitching? Can you recommend the best rods to use? -Thanks for your time
Dan Szalewski, Nebraska
Read Answer How do you now wnat color lures to use during the day and at night? which kind as well? this is off a pier that has lights.
jeremias estrada, Texas
Read Answer what knot do you use with floracarbon line for a worm or a jig?
George A Foser III, Louisiana
Read Answer I'm a recreational fisherman just starting to get my nephew involved in bass fishing. He already has a spinning reel, but i was wondering what type of line would be best to get him so that he could try all different types of presentations for bass. I know braid is strongest, but is it too visible for general use?
Joe Everett, New Jersey
Read Answer Its been about 35 degrees in the morning & 45ish in the afternoon here lately and the last couple days its been in the high 60s low 70s. Will the bass/panfish bite with such rapid weather change? What bait do you recommend?
Tyler , Ohio
Read Answer I have a small 1/3 acre deep (13') pond in my back yard. Excellent bass fishing. I recently caught a beautiful 5 lb. largemouth on a hula popper. While trying to remove the hook, the fish got away and broke the line with lure embedded in it's lip, torward the outside. I really felt bad about this, as it was a great fish. What is the chance this fish will survive with a lure embedded like this? Thanks
Dennis Stephens, Kentucky
Read Answer Fresh water bass fishing. My question.Is their any scientific evidence that fish respond to color. My opinion is if a bass is hungry he will strike at anything that moves or makes noise. I use rubber worms and catch more then my share of Bass regardless of the color. Thank you. Very much
Paul, Massachusetts
Read Answer How long should i fish a particular bait before deciding to change to another! How long before being patient turns into missed oppurtunity?
Mike , Kansas
Read Answer looking how to rig a swim bait. and what size hook do i use. thanks mike
mike wilmar, New York
Read Answer We fish a manmade flood control resvoir. in central al. fairly big place clear water weeds around the bank throughout the entire lake. Have been some 10lb plus fish caught here but very hard to do. Hard to get any kind of pattern on these fish any suggestions? No shad in the lake only bream. No spots only largemouth
Rod, Alabama
Read Answer I was in a tournament this last weekend and the water temperature at 4:30 that morning was 75 degrees. I could not find the bass because of the warm water and i was not the only one having the problem (96 fisherman, and 9 fish caght). how would you suggest to find and get the bite in this temperature water?
clayton smith, North Carolina
Read Answer i fish in alot of small tourneys im in a bass league (northern adirondack bass association) and i always seem to end up in 5th or 6th place out of about 20 which isnt that bad. but what can i do different than everyone else to help me win or atleast place. we usually fish lake champlain which means i throw a watermelon tube for smallies and a black and blue senko for large mouth. what can i try that will help me land that extra 2 pounds to put me over the top? thanks - calvin
calvin, New York
Read Answer Dear Sir. I have a Pflueger LP baitcasting reel on a MH 6.6 Ugly. I fish bass and am wondering what to line it up with. I want something good. So do I use Power Pro or some sort of mono line? The lures i use are top-water,cranks, and worms. Thank you for your help. Douglas
Douglas, Wisconsin
Read Answer Can you tell me apx. how much the following fish grow a year? Catfish, Large mouth and small mouth bass, and crappie? I have a lake in my back yard and I own over half of it and those are the fish that are in my lake. I like to catch and release. Last year because of the draught there wasn't any little fish to be seen. This year the drought is over and so are the little ones, all over the place. Point how long before they are of catachable size? Out of curiosity what can I expect as a survivasl rate?
Pete, Texas
Read Answer A Blond friend of mine told her husband and myself today, that she heard that if a person catches a large fish on the bottom of a deep lake that if you pull the fish up to quickly it will take in too much air and its stomach will enlarge and it will get a stomach ache. Well needless to say we almost died laughing. Could what she said possibly be true? Or is it just a blond thing?
Glenn Anthony, Indiana
Read Answer I have a question regarding jig colors. How do you know when to use a different color when fishing? I sometimes use one color of jig for 5 min. before switching to a new one, is this to soon to expect results? Also I have an old Abu garcia cardinal 752 spinning reel that I got from my grandfather. I really don't want to buy a new one since this has personaly value to me, is there anyone/any company you could give me that could help me remodel the reel with up to date gears? Thanks for having the patience to read this and thanks for any information in advance! ;)
Andrew, Missouri
Read Answer how do you rig a super fluke?
chris, Indiana
Read Answer fishing a small impoundment about 20 acres. what is the best method for locating bass in your oppinion? lake has a large bluegill population as well..thanks..
butch mosko, West Virginia
Read Answer Like your in-put on Color Clector. Best brands and if you think good fishing item for the box.

Thanks Charles
Charles , Florida
Read Answer What specific hook - manufacturer, size, type - do you recommend for the Zoom Salty Super Fluke? Thanks!
Spark Geissler, Arkansas
Read Answer Hi Roger, I was reading about KVD at his last event which he won. He talks about fishing the weedline with a crankbait. When he felt the weed he ripped the crank through the weed and had success. My question is, what happens when weed catches on the hook or beak, you now have weed attached to the crank while you are retrieving, therefore you lose action of the crank. Do the bass still attack the crank with all the weed attached? look forward to your reply Larry
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer I am going to be getting a new baitcasting reel. The two im thinking about are the pflueger supreme or the quantum energy pt. I fish bass and i would really like your opinion on what one would be a better reel. Both feel smooth and are very nice reels. Any advice would be great. Thanks ttyl- Douglas
Douglas, Wisconsin
Read Answer what should i do if every time i catch a fish on a jig the rattles come off.
zack, Florida
Read Answer What is the difference between a round baitcast reel and a regular one? Say for example the difference between the "Shakespeare Round Baitcast Reel" and the "Agility Low Profile Baitcast Reel". Also which one is better?
Kris, Out of Country
Read Answer what is your most favorite jig trailer
ralph francis, Kentucky
Read Answer What water temperature is the favorite of largemouth bass?
Rod, Tennessee
Read Answer NEED A RECIPE FOR SALTED MINNOWS FOR BAIT HOW TO DO OR MAKE
C. RUSSELL, New York
Read Answer Hello, I was wondering if you could tell me when the best time to find Hellgramites around the streams and the best way to catch them. I have been hearing these larva staged insects are a killer way to catch these smallmouth that I am after. Thank You for your time.
Billy Compton, Indiana
Read Answer My husband seems to think that the person fishing from the front of the boat has far more success in catching fish than the person at the back of the boat. Any truth to this?
Tina Howell, Georgia
Read Answer I would like to know if that evening secret is joke or is it real. Have u done it before?
Detrict Clark, Texas
Read Answer Is it a good time to go fishing right after the ice melts or is it best to wait.
Carmen Nole, Pennsylvania
Read Answer MY name is casey bernsen i have a bobber that the line runs through and i was wanting to put a bobber stop and bead on my line to set for my little brother but could not figure out how to tie the stop and bead on the line. if you send give me some tips and a good knot to use that would be great. thnk you
Casey Bernsen, Missouri
Read Answer Are bass and other fish hesitant to bite on colors unnatural to the baitfish they feed on? Or is the presentation of the lure what counts? Is presenting your lure as naturall as possible what really entices fish to strike...what im getting at is will fish hit on any color as long is it is presented natually?There are some colors i just dont have confidence in such as pink and purple Yet ive been told that showing a fish somthing he hasnt seen befoe will somtimes trigger strikes... As you can tell by reading this im a little confused in this category....What is the best way to remain confident that if the fish are feeding, your gunna be getting strikes? All your advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanks - Adam
Adam Whiney, Maryland
Read Answer Do bass have trouble spotting the color white in murky water? What is your go to lure when when the fish are not hitting?
Adam Whiney, Georgia
Read Answer How come at night bass can see darker colors such as black, junebug, better? If the water was darker wouldn't you want to use a lighter color?
Adam Whitney, New York
Read Answer Can i cast my pflueger Baitcaster combo side armed vs over head without casuing backlash? Any tips to not get backlash? Thank you- Douglas
Douglas, Wisconsin
Read Answer Roger, My question is,I have a big problem hanging up with jigs that have the eye of the hook 90 degrees to the shank. (like Rattleback or S.K. Pro Model). I know too many pros use this type and most jigs labeled "flipping" jigs are this style.Any advise on getting these thru structure/trees easier? It seems 8 out of 10 times I will bring it over a limb,and it just 'sticks'. Thanks...RG
randy greeson, New York
Read Answer I fish for large mouth bass,I have tree tops .What is the best attractant to put on them to lure in the big ones? any input would be nice. I hear there is something you can get from a local feed store.
donnie higginbotham, Louisiana
Read Answer I fish competitively on Lake Erie and St.Clair. Is the new Fireline Crystal transparent enough to use without a florocarbin leader for tubes and dropshotting?
Doug, Ohio
Read Answer what would be the best bait to use in febuary.
montana mcdaniel, Mississippi
Read Answer I would like to know if you store your plastics such as worms and tubes in there bags that they come in or in your boxes of your tackle box?
ryan , Pennsylvania
Read Answer I just started bass fishing on a regular basis last year. This winter I have really tried reading more articles and just trying to improve my basic fishing I.Q. Even though I've read alot and learned alot there are still several terms and techniques that are alien to me. I hope you can recommend some books or training videos that can give me a basic knowledge of bass fishing techniques and an overview of everything I need to know to fish competently. I would also like to know more about large and smallmouth bass as well as the lakes and ponds they inhabit. I would really appreciate any of your recomendations for reading and viewing on these subjects. Thanks
Mark, Illinois
Read Answer Hey Roger, I'm a new fisherman and fell in love day one(and I didn't catch a thing). I'm tryin to find out the differance in a round baitcaster and a low-pro baitcaster. Is it personal preferance or performance. Thanks Jon
Jonathan, Massachusetts
Read Answer is the Quantum® Kevin VanDam Signature Series Baitcast combo a good choice? I fish bass and am looking for a combo to last awhile.
Douglas, Wisconsin
Read Answer Which type of Silver Thread would you recommend for fishing plastics. Also, does this line sink or float.

Thanks.
Femin Gonzales, Wisconsin
Read Answer I have been fishing for about ten years now in georgia and i have never seen a winter like this one. Some days it will be cold and other days it will be in the 60's and 70's. How are u suppose to fish in these changing conditions and what are the fish doing?
Corey Turner, Georgia
Read Answer Besides carolina rigs, what do i use a swivial with? I've heard that not using them with crankbaits takes action away. Is this true?
Jody Westmoreland, Mississippi
Read Answer Where can I find articles that tells what gear ratio (bait cast reel) is best suited for the different types of lures, ie, top water, shallow crank, deep creak, plastics, lipless, etc.

Thanks
Wayne Vinyard, California
Read Answer I have fished the Rainbow and Withlacoochee (sp) seveal times and caught nothing. We see the bass. Water is very clear with a slight flow of 2-3 knots. Last time the bass were feeding on top in a small lagoon. They were everywhere. I fished a white spinner, Watermelon worm, top water frog and new "miracle lure bait immitator" and got nothing. In four trips we have caught nothing. Need help fishing the rivers and the top feeding lagoon fish.
Tom Crider, Florida
Read Answer Hi,Hope all is well,Could you please explain to me what it means when the lake turns over? Thankyou! Tammy
Tammy Messer, North Carolina
Read Answer I am about to order two new rod and reel combos. I fish worms, and jigs, and crankbaits, and spinnerbaits, and some topwter. Should I get a 6'6 MH action rod for the worms and jigs, and a 6'0 M action rod for the crankbaits, or what should I get? Help me out.
Jonathan Rouse, Kentucky
Read Answer when tying line to a crank bait, do you tie to the split ring or the one that is screwed into the lip, and why?
TERRY, Kentucky
Read Answer What is the best hook/hook size when Texas Rigging a 6in. plastic worm?
William Mitchell, Virginia
Read Answer I know you don't live in New Jersey but I am in a slump right now and I need to know how to get out of it and I have to go in the hardest lake this weekend. What should I do
Justin Leach, New Jersey
Read Answer Have you ever heard of Bass spawning in July (summertime)on east texas lakes?
Tony King, Texas
Read Answer My question is: I know how to rig a rubber worm (I think) but how exactly are you supposed to fish it effectively? Just cast and reel ?

Thank you,
John
John Ruggiero, New Jersey
Read Answer i am kinda new to bass fishing not to fising. my ? is when on a lake you have never fished. what kinda things do you look for to start fishing? you can not see any under water structure. do you look for rocky banks, deep water. and can you recommand a good author or book that will help me start to learn fish habits and treats. thank you for your time
kboddie, Tennessee
Read Answer Can you give me a straightforward answer as to why it is the norm to throw right handed, switch the reel to the left hand, and reel with the right on a baitcast? I have a couple baitcast, but prefer the spinning, i want a new baitcast but i am baffled by this, what are my advantages of the hand switching...i think i want a leftie!
Nathan, Louisiana
Read Answer I would like to know about the best colors when fishing a plastic worm in these conditions. clear water...... muddy water...... stained water...... they are hundreds of colors but what percent are effective?
Jeff Hoskins, Tennessee
Read Answer where could u find bass in a river with a current?
Lonzo Sanchez, New York
Read Answer I live in NE Florida. I fish a lot with my step-dad. I just purchased a magazine with fishing tips for post spawn fishing tips. Even though i am an avid fisherman, i don't know when post spawning season is? i would also like to know when pre spawn season is? and when spawning season is. If you have any tips for those seasons, and when they are, i would greatly, greatly appreciate it. i have also read that if u put a leader on a bass spinner, and attach a minnow on the end of the leader (supposed to be 12 inches long) it will catch fish. or course there will have to be a hook. Do you suppose you could assist me with those questions as soon as you have time.

Thanks a lot, Seth Fritz
Seth Fritz, Florida
Read Answer I have been fishing in a large abandened quarry. The depths range anywhere from 20 ft. to 200 ft +. The water is very clear. I have caught several rock bass and on occasion some good size small mouth bass. I often see good size carp swimming around. My question is what bait would be the best to use in this situation. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to how these fish bite. Any tips or suggestions would be grteatly appreciated.
JimJam333, Pennsylvania
Read Answer My ? is about lure Fishing , myself a live bait kind of guy but i also fish alot of rapala's, Rattlin rouges, that kind of deal . how do u know when to use the right lure,and colors?
jake Peters, Illinois
Read Answer what is the best way to rig the beaver plastic baits.
david, New Hampshire
Read Answer We have just purchased new Shimano rods and reels, we are avid bass fisherman and are trying to find out a few quesetions about fishing with lures. Could you tell me if your preference when fishing with lures is to use a swivel or not using one. Thank you, Todd
todd, New York
Read Answer How long do you use a lure before you change them? ( 5, 10, 30 minutes ? ) I fish about 10 lakes that are connected by a river and small channels. The water is murky spring and summer and I was wondering what you think would be the best lures to use. I look forward to your answer. Jim
Jim, Illinois
Read Answer If i was to add a leader of flouro carbon line, is it better to join the 2 lines by knot,or to use a swivel. If swivel is the way to go,what size would you reccommend and how long should my leader be in both cases? (finesse and worming). The reason for me using the The flouro carbon leader is to reduce the visibility of the line and also it tends not to fray and nick. Thankyou,I wait your response Larry
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer When spooling new line on open face reels do you come off of the bottom of the new spool or the top?
BOBBY SIMS, Louisiana
Read Answer I have recently been fishing at a spot that is new to me, and I am having trouble figuring out where the bass are at certain temperatures. In this particular lake, i have had days where i caught 2-3 lb fish all day in 1 to 3 feet of water when it was extremely hot out, and frigid days where they were in deep shadowed waters. This goes against my common sense, I figured the bass would prefer deeper water when the shallows get too warm, and the shallows when the depths are too cold. I appreciate your time. Thanks!
Mike, Massachusetts
Read Answer I often go fishing with my best friend, and his uncle catches over a dozen fish in a few hours while I only catch one or two fish. I try fishing in the same spot and using the same bait as him but only in vain. He uses a regular live worm, same as me. I suspect he uses some special substance to clear the human scent from his hands. He refuses to tell anyone about his secret, including to his brother and nephew. What could he be using? Thank you.
Freddy, Illinois
Read Answer What do you recommend for a quick on the spot fix to plastic lures (worms, lizards) that tear on a shaky head jig? I tried super glu, but that is kinda messy. Thanks.
Brian, Alabama
Read Answer Lately, I have been finesse fishing with 20lb braid and have added a 24"x 10lb big game green leader. The braid has faded. 1. Can the fish see the braid? 2.should i be finesse fishing with braid? If not then what line should i be using. Finally,what rigs would you fish braid and does faded braid make any differnce.

Look forward to your response. Larry Watson(South Africa)
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer Have you ever heard of using a worm to catch frogs with a line and hook? A friend was trying to tell this tale about her grandfather, and claimed he used a bit of red cloth and a worm on a hook to collect frog legs for dinner. She was not pleased when all the men giggled too much. Help!
Dave Slote, Florida
Read Answer What is the best bait/lure to use when you don't know what type of fish is in it. Its stocked by a hotel. Down in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
MIKE, Massachusetts
Read Answer Have you ever heard of puncturing a bass's swim bladder through they're crunchers?
rod, Tennessee
Read Answer I want to learn how to read contour maps to improve my fishing success. I have looked at some books but of course the maps they use for illustration are the ideal and don't come close to what I am seeing on my maps; any suggesstions as to articles to read or books to research, any web sites. Also how to fish these areas. i fish mostly the shallows and know I am missing out on alot.

Any help you can give is greatly appreciated.
Joe, New Jersey
Read Answer When the weather changes, how fast do the fish react to the change of tempeture in the spring. I don't understand if the fish is body tempeture is the same as the water tempeture then how does the weather affect the fish? I understand the Barometer change but not when the weather changes and the water only changes 1to2 degrees. I hope this makes sence to you.

Arch
Archie A.Davis, Kentucky
Read Answer Im buying my first baitcaster, I usually use 6-10lb Fireline on all my other reels...I have heard that if you use a braid you need to go heavy...What can you recomend for type of line and what pound test...
Stephen Pannone, Rhode Island
Read Answer How could a person tell if the fishing line they are purchasing has not been sitting on the shelf or in a warehouse for ages. I don't believe there are date codes but does line (mono, braid) deteriorate after a period of time just sitting on the shelf?
Bob Achenbach, New Jersey
Read Answer Do you have any advice about getting sponsered, or any advice about being picked by or to get chose to be in any tournaments. If you could give me any advice i would be very happy by sir and go catch'um.
Cody Hill, Georgia
Read Answer I have a tournament coming up on a lake I haven't fished. I bought a map of the lake and would like to know what to look for. Should I key on a small area and fish it thoroughly? or look for something that looks familar to what I'm used to? It will be late March and I'm guessing water temp to be around 50 to 55 degrees. Thanks!
Joe, Missouri
Read Answer Roger I have been fishing all my life since I was a little kid. I love to fish I want to start fishing tornaments with a friend how do we go about that. We don't have a boat yet
Mike Pryor, California
Read Answer What kind of bait do you use that works the best?
Mike Spangler, Massachusetts
Read Answer Roger, I use Rapala fishing lures for alot of fishing trips, and I was wondering if the Rapala lure could get out of tune. If this is possible could you tell me how to re-tune my lure. I noticed that I will use the same lure on two poles and one will out fish the other in the same environment. I was wondering if one is out of tune thanks Jason
Jason Overstreet, Michigan
Read Answer At what water temps do late winter early prespawn bass start moving towards thier spawning locations and what is the coldest water temp a bass will spawn in? I have found that when water temps are at or below 45 degrees I find them schooled up in winter locations. Once the water temps go from 45 to 50 degrees I am totally lost. THANKS!!!
James Whittman, Virginia
Read Answer Dear Coach, My wife recently purchased me a Quantum AC500PT Baitcast, I've always used a spincast reel but was wanting to try this type of reel. I was excited to use this reel in the near future but when I went to practice casting I kept getting the old bird nest and was disapointed. I will be using this mostly for trout so I would appreciate some tips on casting techniques and proper applications for this type reel. Thank you in advance, Manny
Manny, Arizona
Read Answer I am 19 and still learning alot about bass fishing. I fish local tournaments and I am pretty consistant on catching fish, but they usually don't have the size needed to do any good in competitions. Is there any advice you could give me to catch solid fish more consistantly?
Hunter, Arkansas
Read Answer hi, i would like a new tip on catching late january and early febuary spawning largemouth bass in ponds and small lakes east feliciana parish
paul, Louisiana
Read Answer The Bass Coach,
What is the best knot to use when using fluorocarbon line?

Thank You,
Eric
Eric Biro, Oklahoma
Read Answer Hi, I am totally ate up with Bass Fishing. Over the past 3 years here in Indiana I've landed 5 Bass in the 6 to 6.5lb range. My question is, Last week I was doing some January Fishing. We had a coule warm days but I'm sure the water temp. was below 40 degrees. Normally I would fish a slow spinner or jig-N-Pig but I was surprised to see that my fish finder was showing all the fish on the surface and not deep like one would think. The first day I fished I assumed it may have been because there was a major Low pressure system that moved in. Around here when the barometer get's around 29.68 or below the fish go nuts. But that's in the warmer months. This was the first I saw that in the winter. I didn't get any bites that day, so I tried again a few days later when the barometer was more stable (around 30.00). Still, same thing in this particular lake. Warm air temp., cold water, All the fish on the surface witin the first 4 feet of water. I couldn't figure out what to throw at them that could be fished extremely slow but not sink and not be on top water. I tried everything from suspending cranks to slow spinners and even a texas rig without a sinker. Please give me some insight on fishing cold water when the fish appear to be holding shallow. Thanks, Jamey marrs
Jamey Marrs, Indiana
Read Answer Hi there, I just entered a bassmasters elite tournament (Battle on the border)as a non- boater for march.(spawn season)I was wondering if you had any tips for me for catching behind a pro, and for proper edicate in the boat. I'm usually on the front deck and in control of where we go and what we do.

I really want to do well and I'm starting to stress out a little bit. Thanks in advance, George
George, Texas
Read Answer When fishing in the winter what type of setup would you recomend using on rivers such as the mississippi and the missouri?
marco marshall, Missouri
Read Answer My grandson is coming to visit and wants to catch bass. The primary forage in my lake is bluegill. What lures would you receommend for a 10 year old with limited fishing experience?
avid, Florida
Read Answer Considering presured lakes and conditioned bass, would it not be wise to do the exact opposite from the crowd?

Most anglers do 4 things....
1) Chunk and wind. 2) Present a bait horozontally. 3) Use fast retrieves. 4) Use large baits.

Should you not.....
1) Avoid chunk and wind? 2) Present a bait verticly? 3)Use slow retrieves? 4) Use small baits?

A Classic situation would be a tree line, most anglers chunking spinnerbaits and drwaing them out, should you not use a weightless 4" lizard or worm and cast next the tree and let it fall slowly? Then pull it up to the next tree, let it fall slowly etc?

Mark
Mark, Texas
Read Answer I am right handed, but reel with my left hand and hold the pole with my right. I wanted to purchase a baitcaster to see how they were.But I noticed that 98% of them were set up to reel with your right hand. I thier a reason for this? And should i just try to baitcast with a left-handed reel?
Jon Weston, New York
Read Answer Hey Coach,
Often times when fishing for bass, I ask myself what would the pros do? I fish a 27-acre pond. It is in the SandHills of Nebraksa. It has 2 creeks that feed it that are 2-5 ft deep. The main part of the pond is lined with CottonTails. There are 2 downed trees in one area, the rest of the lake is lacking all types of vegetation. The bottom of the lake is all sand. It is a man-made pond with a dam on one end. The lakes meets the shore shallow and in most places drops to 10-15 feet deep within 20 yards. How would you fish this in the early spring? summer? fall? Last year during the fall I hit 4 bass on worms in the creeks. Any suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks
Josh "the wanna be pro"
Josh, Nebraska
Read Answer i was watching a fishing show and the guy was looking at his elevation on his gps while he was in his boat, and said that he knew how deep the water was by the elevation. can you explain it better?
brian , Iowa
Read Answer Whats a good Jerk bait rod?
Jeremy Salizzoni, California
Read Answer Do you use swivels to tie on bass lures or speck lures?
James W Akers, Florida
Read Answer What type of lure or bait should I use? I located several large bass in a small stream (1'-2' deep & 15'-20' wide). I can see them but can't get them to respond to anything. Do you have any suggestions?
Alan Hunter, Texas
Read Answer Hey Roger,
This is Kevin and my question deals with clear water lakes and boat docks. The lake I fish is deep and clear and full of rainbow trout. Now what baits should I transfer to on these boat docks? Should I use an drop shot rig or should I stick with a wacky worm rig?
Kevin Lewis, Illinois
Read Answer Greetings Rogers, I'm a young fishermen and my question deals with the prespawn. In early spring, should I hold off going directly back into the coves or should I try and locate where the bass's staging areas and travel routes are from the shallows to the deeper areas like points, and flats. Is is best to first find where these fish are staging first then fish the back ends of coves for prespawning bass or fish directly into the cove?
Kevin Lewis, Illinois
Read Answer I'm in NC. There is one pond I have been fishing for several months, and have been catching Crappie, Perch, Small Mouth Bass, and Brown Bull Head Cat's. The past few times I have been out I haven't even gotten a hit on anything I have tried lures and baits. Now the temperture has been getting colder. Like tonight it is 32 degrees out. I have heard that it takes time for the fish to acklimate to the temp change. What is the usual time for the fish to adjust and is there some way to get the fish to bite when they don't want to? Thank you for your time, and enjoy the holidays.
frank, North Carolina
Read Answer my question is: My husband is an avid fisherman and his dream above all is to become a pro fisherman. How can he live his dream and how does he get started. Is there anyway he can become a success story?
lisa fix, New York
Read Answer I just moved from Florida where the fishing was excellent, I would like to now how to fish the cold temps, around here {Pennsylvania). The bass fishing in Florida was great and seemed fairly easy considering it was my own back yard. I have not ran in to anybody that really goes after bass around here. I live in Gettysburg Pa, Adams County. Can you help me with where to fish, what baits, when the right time is during the winter.

Please help,
Chad Butler
Chad Butler, Pennsylvania
Read Answer Which one of these reels would make a better crankin reel? One has a 4:7 1 gear ratio and the other has an 6:3 1 . They both take in 21" of line per handle turn.
mike, Louisiana
Read Answer Roger,
I have been fishing a small river in central arkansas this fall. Though the river is fairly wide ( about 60 yds. ) it seldom gets above 6 ft deep. I can see bass and walleye moving along the bedrock bottom but can't seem to get them to bite. My father, who has won his share of bass tourneys told me to try a spoon and flutter it right outside swift current and in bends of the river just on the inside of the current or bouncing a crankbait off the rocks. I haven't tried the latter but wanted to see what your opinion was.

Chris
Chris P, Arkansas
Read Answer I know you change shade of color in your lure according to the weather of the day, but should you change color during the different seasons too?

Thanks for the help, Tanner
Tanner, Georgia
Read Answer If your going to a lake you've never been before what's the first thing you look for.

Thanks,
Tanner
Tanner, Georgia
Read Answer I'm a 7th grade student at Columbia Middle School in Columbia Illinois. I am doing a science fair project on fishing. I have to do an interview with a pro. Here are some questions I need answered. What bait do you think catchs the most fish? What bait catchs the biggest fish? What is your preferrd bait of all time? What is the least used bait of all time? Does the time of day effect the bait that you use? Which bait is most popular?

Thank you for your time, and i would appreciate it if you would e-mail me back! Thank you! Thanks, Carrie Wellman
Carrie Wellman, Illinois
Read Answer How do you put on a spinnerbait or a buzz bait?
jose castillo, Texas
Read Answer How would you tie the line on the spoll on a bait caster reel? is there a better way than just a normal knot?
harley, Arkansas
Read Answer Mr.Brown, I fish a small pond,it has monsters in it. Our weather has been very hot and muggy,what time of day would you suggest is best? I have tried very early morning and night fishing. Also I was told if there is thunder even in far distance the fish will not bite. Is this true? I would appriciate any help.
TREVA REEVES, Ohio
Read Answer What lure should I use whenever I'm by lily pads, or fallen down trees in the water?
Spencer, Minnesota
Read Answer Hey coach, my name is Aaron, and fishing is one of the few passions in my life, I grew up catfishing the Illinois River, until recently when I discovered bass fishing. The main spot I fish for these bass is a place called The Fulton County Camping Area, its a series of small strip mine lakes that run very deep in the middle but very shallow on the sides. My question to you is what would the best spot to fish in these lakes be. Stay deep in the middle, or fish fallen trees on the sides where it is shallower. Which ever situation would put me on the fish let me know, and also when casting around fallen trees, what is a good bait to use? Thanks for the help.
Aaron, Illinois
Read Answer I just made the jump to the Shimano Calcutta TAdc and was wondering what you thought would be the best rod for the money to put it on. Can you give me a couple of choices in different price ranges? THanks

Joe
Joe Francis, Texas
Read Answer i've been fishing a little bass pond using my kayak the past couple of weeks the largemouths have been slamming a double joint rapala shad rap now i cant catch a fish to save my life to day im going out with live leaches to fish lillypads and shallow water do you think that would be a good decision if so how should i presnt the leach fishing time p.m
teejay, Michigan
Read Answer Hey Coach,
Is it possible to tune a spinnerbait or buzzbait like you can a crankbait? I've recently bought several buzzbaits and most all of them run crooked, they either go left or right, what can I do?
ERIC, Alabama
Read Answer When does a "ball of fry" become a "school of fish"?
Nico Sutmoller, Ohio
Read Answer At 60 years old, retired, and handicap-capped with "Low vision sight" I've decided to take up Bass Fishing!

My question: How do you organize your lures? I have about 20 each of Plano Plastic Boxes 3700 series and can't decide how to organize lures..... by types, mfgrs, sizes, or depths?

How do the pros do it?

Don Clayton Bell
Don Clayton Bell, Georgia
Read Answer What is the best lure to get a largemouth bass?
ryan cronin, Ohio
Read Answer There are a lot of articles that inform and emphasize the importance of properly handling of the large mouth bass after the catch to protect it's "slime coating". What is never mentioned is: What can be done to help the fish survive AFTER the slime coating has been damaged?(such as flopping around in the boat or a catch involving contact with logs, debris, weeds, or improper handling etc.?)Once the slime is damaged is the fish doomed to a slow death by infection? Is there anything the angler can do to help the fish survive? What would a qualified DVM (doctor of veterinarian medicine) suggest? Thanx, Will
Will Arthur, Florida
Read Answer Why should I choose a fishing guide? How to find one and what should I use in my criteria in selecting one. How do I choose the right guide for me.

Thanks alot.
Joe, New Jersey
Read Answer On 3 occasions last week I caught a bass released it immediately and did not catch another one in that particular spot. Does the bass release some sort of "Get out of here" signal, or is it my imagination, or is there only one bass in that spot. This is not the first time that this has taken place. Appreciate your thoughts. Regards Larry watson
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer Hey Roger,
My question is about the tide. What exactly is it and can they effect small ponds or do they just appear on natural lakes and river systems? Can you help me?
Kevin Lewis, Illinois
Read Answer Dear Sir, a buddy and I were casting along a bed of two-four pounders that would not take a thing! 4" lizards, 6" lizards with bright tail, red Berkley Gulp Night Crawlers, rattle traps, spinners, etc. IS ther some secret to roosting out a stubborn fish bedding for the spawn? Question two: KNow anybody that might have some intel on the rivers in North Carolina for Channel cat fishing. I am a soldier at Ft. Bragg and would love to catch some catfish out in the rivers for once...especially a quality photo size.

Thank you for your time sir.
Jeff, North Carolina
Read Answer When fishing with a worm, I seem to be missing some fish. When should I set the hook? On the initial hit, after I see him running with the line, I don't know. Please respond if you can help. Thank you
justin, Louisiana
Read Answer I have located a lot of largemouth bass in 1-2ft. of shallow reeds. They are pretty spooky. The water is about 62-64 degrees and I am not sure how to get them to bite. I have tried throwing some plastics in there and shaking it around but have had no success. What should I do?
Travis Gustafson, Washington
Read Answer I have read many times to use split rings over top of your senkos so that they will last longer. Does this effect to hook up rate? Also what size split rings do you use for 5in. 6in. or 7in. Senkos?
jonathan evans, New York
Read Answer I live in northern Minnesota and i fish a lake with alot of small smallmouth bass in it. It seems that all the bass we catch are 14 inches or smaller. The lake is very clear with a rocky bottom. How would go after the bigger fish?
Grant, Minnesota
Read Answer Where do fish go when off bed? How do you catch these fish? See we fish small lakes and the weather has the fish running on and off the banks. What to do?
johnny gibson, New York
Read Answer Roger, I bass fish a lake in Ohio that is divide into 3 sections by road causeways. My question is ... over the years, all of the bass during tournaments are weighed and released in the north section of the three. Do the majority of bass released go deep and stay in the north section or do they eventually go through the causeway tunnels and migrate to the middle and south ends of the lake again where they came from? Again, very small tunnels seperate the lake sections. And knowing this, would the north section be the place to fish during tournaments?

Thanks, Mike
Mike, Ohio
Read Answer Hey Roger, this is Kevin Lewis and my question for you is about reading maps. I would like to know more about what creek channels and road bed appear to look like on topographical maps. I already know that points look like your contour lines are pointing to mid water and drop offs or breaklines your contour lines get closer, I just want to know if you could help me with maybe a photo of this or just tell me. I'd really appreciate it. By the way I'm very interested in your 3 day on the water training school. I'll be checking that out.
Kevin Lewis, Illinois
Read Answer I always here pros talk about matching the hatch but unless you happen to see a school of shad how do you know what size shape or color of the hatch?
geno, South Carolina
Read Answer Roger,
Have you ever taken the skirt off a spinnerbait,replaced it with a plastic such as a fluke,tube,or large creature bait. If you have what success did it bring you. (bearing in mind i did say "skirt off spinnerbait")

Regards
Larry Watson
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer What type of line should I use to cast crankbaits and wire baits that would give me a lot of strength but not compromise the action of the presentation?
Travis Gossard, Minnesota
Read Answer I am Blake Heil and i live on a lake. I love to fish for bass. I have searched everywhere but i cant find a topographic map to show me the elevations of the water. Now I have no clue where the deep spots are and the shallow spots are to fish.
Blake Heil, Arkansas
Read Answer Me Again, if you were to arrive at a new reservoir no maps, slightly stained water, autumn, structure consisting of rocks in one area varying from 10 to 15 ft. Rocks in another area one of dam dropping off to 50ft, weed bed areas 8to 10 foot liyp adareas 4to 5ft, early morning oh! also some very thick weed beds in 3 to 10ft in another area.

Question: where would you begin first and what would you throw first in the various areas having never fished the reservoir. Would really appreciate your normal comprehensive answer. Regards Larry Watson
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer Hi Roger, could you please tell me when I should fish a bubble gum plastic worm as opposed to a black worm ?!Thanks for the help ! Brian Cote
Brian, Illinois
Read Answer Do you have any advice on spring fishing a powerplant lake. I have fished the cool water side of these lakes in mid summer, but would it be advisable to move closer to the warm water discharge due to the time of the year. Will this cause them to spawn sooner based on the water temp. There is a 20 inch one bass limit on this reservoir.Thanks in advance for your response.
Jay Schurz, Indiana
Read Answer What baits do you get the most sucsess with when fishing in March through May?
MARCUS ARMSTRONG, Iowa
Read Answer what do you think would be the best for casual off the bank fishing?
steven, Kentucky
Read Answer What is the best thing to use for catching monster bass and where to go in parts of lakes in the summer and winter?
william h alley, Maine
Read Answer hi, just wanted to know what colors you think is best for flipping in the winter an in the summer. I fish west lake toho an kissimmee chains alot.
Lamar Carpenter, Florida
Read Answer Are there any tips or tricks u can give me for fishing bass in the winter?
ryan still, West Virginia
Read Answer My question is what do you think of woman fishing? Some being into pro fishing and some just for fun?! My boyfriend ryan is very into it and i am trying to. I love to fish and i would like to learn how, professionaly?! thank you for your time.
Sarah, Pennsylvania
Read Answer Other than fluorocarbon fishing line, which is better green or clear for fishing plastics?
gary costello, New York
Read Answer I am heading to lake champlain for the first time this summer to fish 2 federation tournaments and a B.A.S.S. weekend angler tournament. I have been trying to research the lake and am having a hard time finding reliable accurate information. Could you give me some advice on how to prepare as much as I can be fore hitting the water and can you reccomend any good maps other than the hot spot maps.
jonathan evans, New York
Read Answer Hi again. You mention in your article "where are the bass", that you move in after someone has fished the weedline and you target the actual weed bed or similar. What presentation would you use, especially if the bed is very thick with occasional hole or slight avenue. Secondly how would you retrieve it? Look forward to your response.

Regards,
Larry watson
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer WHEN FISHING WITH A CRANK BAIT, IS IT BETTER TO USE A LEADER OR TIE THE CRANKBAIT DIRECTLY TO THE LINE. WHICH ONE WOULD GIVE YOU BETTER ACTION?
robert foster, Minnesota
Read Answer Thank you for answering my previous question. I would like to know when would be the best or right situation to use a braided line or can you use it at all times? Secondly please tell what color and breaking strain you reccomend?
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer What advice could you give to a college student who wants to some day be a pro fisherman? Is there anything I need to do other than fish as often as I can in order to become better? How do I find tournaments in my area?

Thanks, Brooks
Brooks , Texas
Read Answer When fishing a black 6 inch worm texas style in weed and vegetation depth 6 foot do you twitch leave or do you sweep about 2 foot at a time leave or do you pick up 9 oclock to 11 and drop then repeat. If you do twitch or sweep or pick how long do leave it still for?
Larry Watson, Out of Country
Read Answer I live in North Carolina. I am going to Valdosta Ga. To fish with my dad. I have never been there and i am going the frist week in March the 5th thru the 10th. All i can get on the lakes is one has a depth of about 6 to 7ft average.A nd the other has a couple of holes near 15ft. How would you figure on fishing these and what would you bring to use not being able to get any info. Thanks for your help. Randy
Randy, North Carolina
Read Answer almost a 2 week warming trend in Janurary water temperature went from 38 to 47. Few fish were caught in middle of pockets (all small) Why dont fish Migrate like they do in Feburary? I also noticed that plants do not act the same way either. Just pointing out that some plants would actually bloom in Feburary with the same weather. How would you attack this suituation.

Thanks
Robert Hawkins, North Carolina
Read Answer What is the best way to catch monster fish in a lake?
chris , Tennessee
Read Answer I was given a baitcasting reel, a Bass pro extreme, and I was wonder what the best way to string it would be. I flipped all through the manual for it and wasn't able to find a thing. Thank you.
Will, Vermont
Read Answer I will be fishing a tournament on Stockton Lake in MO The first week in Dec this year, I havent fished it before, and haven't got a map to study, but hopeful to find one. I know it has a lot of good features, what would you suggest I throw to help me win? I know slow may be the key. I fished a tournament last weekend and the warmest water we found was 59.2 to 60.5, I also have no experience with deep water bassin, but know I can do it, but I don't know where to start, my answer was to slow roll spinner baits and get a mutitude of crank baits deep as I could and vary everything until I got a hit, and then stick with that a while. I look forward to your answer and would love to know more about going to your shcool! Thanks and good fishing! Joe
Joe Wiles, Kansas
Read Answer Will you please tell me some of your amazing secrets that has made you the outstanding pro fisherman that you are?
Joe, North Carolina
Read Answer I fish about 5-6 times a week, saltwater on the weekends or when ever i have the most time... and freshwater during the week or whenever i dont have much time... in freshwater i have been doing pretty decent, but my main focus is saltwater so most of my money is spent on saltwater equipment... for freshwater, i mainly use senko worms and yum mega tubes, and occasionally a spinnerbait or buzzbait... i fish the rahway river in new jersey becuase it is the closest, and lately the temp has dropped and the water level has gone down a lot from lack of rain, i am having a very hard time finding any fish of any species over the past few days, besides one small bass at the bottom of a dam.... do you have any suggestions on what i should do?... also, there is a small pond next to the section of the river i fish sometimes, and everytime i go there i can find a bass under a small footbridge about 3 feet long... there is always 1 bass underneath it out of site, but it comes out to look at my bait sometimes... i caught my biggest bass underneath the bridge on a senko, but since then i cant get it to bite, it just looks at my bait no matter what it is... any suggestions?
Dan, New Jersey
Read Answer For the entire month of September I was catching suspended bass in 20ft of water on Senko's, since then the water temp has dropped and so has the weather it has went from being in the mid 80s to low 60s virtually over night. I have not found the bass in the deeper water. WHAT SHOULD I DO!!!!!!!!!!
Dickie Abner, Virginia
Read Answer We have had a hard time finding the bigger fish this year. We always caught them on them drops, but this year there just not there. The other day we found them up a holler in in about 10 to 14 foot of water (80 to 82 water temp). We had a bad storm the other day and raised the lake 5ft in 2 days. What would this do to the fish and how would you catch them...thank you......
jack williams, Kentucky
Read Answer I fish rubber worms almost exclusively with great success. However, lately here in jersey the bass have been hitting strange. They seem to be hitting towards the boat making strikes hard to feel. The unfortunate effect of this is I've been letting the bass gut my hook. Usually just in the soft throat area but some go all the way down. Its very upsetting to think that I'm killing fish so here's my questions.

1. How bad is this for the fish I've heard they eventually spit the hook but I dont see how?

2. Is it better for the fish if I do surgery or just cut the line?

Thanks, your help is appriciated.
Bill Holdren
Bill Holdren, New Jersey
Read Answer How do you get big fish to bite in an area where there are a lot of smaller fish for then feed on.

Will they bite when they are full?
Bobby Melton, Kentucky
Read Answer Do you have to go to school to be a pro fisherman?
steven, Georgia
Read Answer I was in North Carolina recently catching rainbow trout by the boatload. I decided to start throwing them back ONLY to discover that Most just died?? The Perch I caught lived all day and then released them an hour after they'd been out of water with no problems!

I've heard there's a way to help Rainbow Trout survive by rubbing them somewhere or something like that? Are you fimilar with anything like this? I would appreciate any help in helping the trout survive being caught!

Thanks very much for your Valuable time, Bob!

Sincerely,
James Woolley DDS
PS Any preferences on the best spinning reels and rods and lines by make? I do fresh water fishing and prefer lighter tackle...but not ULTRA light.
James Woolley, North Carolina
Read Answer This is a equipment question, I've been searching for "Master Graphite C" Trolling rods. Model:GC87. 8 1/2 ft 2 piece. line 8-15 med action. Who made these? local Tackle Shops are like, "if it ain't on the rack, I don't know. any help?

And one more, I can't find "Lake Systems" combo clector, on the web or in the stores. It wasn't that long ago that Bass Pro Shops did carry these. Never fails, now I want one, and I can't find it.

Thanks for your time and any help you can give me. bob b.
Bob Barkley, New York
Read Answer hi, I'm a bass fisher and we just moved from Georgia two Utah. We have a bass boat and we are wondering if you could tell us how to fish for smallmouth at flaming Gorge Reservoir and Jordanelle Reservoir. There is alot of rock structure and deep drop offs along the rocks. Aany tips would be great. Thanks, Josh
josh sorrell, Utah
Read Answer My 6 yr old son has a passion for fishing. I know 6 sounds young but fishing is his life and has been since he has been 4. He says when he grows up he is going to be a pro fisherman. What course do suggest we take him down? What all is offered such as events, organizations, training, etc. that we could involve him in? We live in the northern park of Indiana.
Courtney Munsey, Indiana
Read Answer I have been fishing with a plastic frog, I was wondering where I should use it and how?
Chris, Kansas
Read Answer I fish off a dock and the furthest I can cast out is probably about 55-60 feet into the river. I have only caught one bass in months. I have two questions: 1. what lures or bait should I be using to fish off the docks( I caught the small striper on a spinner-bait) and 2. are they any tips you can share about fishing off docks?
Rob, Massachusetts
Read Answer how did you become a pro angler?
Wade Bohannon, Indiana
Read Answer HI, I HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT FISHING LINE. I JOINED A BASS CLUB AND STARTED FISHING SOME LOCAL TOURNAMENTS. I CATCH ALOT OF FISH, BUT NONE OF THEM HAVE BEEN KEEPERS, ALL HAVE BEEN 13" OR SMALLER. THE GUYS IN THE CLUB SAID IT WAS THE LINE I WAS USING. THEY SAID, THE OLDER FISH CAN SEE IT AND THEY DON'T WANT TO HIT THE BAIT. I USE SPIDERWIRE STEALTH 10LB/2LB DIA. I SWICHED TO 12 TRILENE XL AND I MISSED 2 MONSTERS THAT WERE ON BUT THEY SPIT THE HOOK OUT. I KNOW I COULD FEEL THE LINE STRECH WHEN I SET THE HOOK AND I THINK THIS IS WHY I LOST THE FISH. NOW IM THINKING OF SWITCHING TO FIRELINE 14LB/6BL DIA. MY QUESTION IS, CAN THE FISH SEE THE LINE OR IS THIS NOT TRUE. I REALLY LIKE THE FEEL OF SPIDERWIRE AND I SEEM TO CATCH ALOT OF FISH, JUST NOT BIG ONES. THANKS FOR YOUR TIME!!!!!!!!!
WAYNE, Michigan
Read Answer You answered my last question and i was hoping you can answer this one to. I was wondering how much does your 3-day "on water" Bass fishing school cost and where is it located.

Thannks, Craig
Craig , Washington
Read Answer I am looking into buying new a 6.5 - 7 ft m/h graphite rod for worming. Looking at cabelas the IM6 rods of a good name brand are much more expensive than a IM7 (Berkley) rod at Wal-mart. I was always under the assumption that IM7 was better than IM6, why such a price difference and which is the better rod?

Thanks,
Brian Jolly
Brian Jolly, Florida
Read Answer you recenttly answered my last question so now i need to know how to find a local bass club and where do i sign up for 3 day bass school? My address is kathy bor 521 20st se mason city iowa 50401. Thanks so much for taking out time for me, hope to hear from you soon.
kathy bor, Iowa
Read Answer I was wondering how do I enroll in your 3-day bass fishing school.
Craig Brewczynski, Washington
Read Answer Greetings.

I fish in the Seattle area. I do pretty well with plastics (natural colors) and crank baits at dawn when the bass move up to shallow (3-4 pounds). Then most of the bass retreat deep at 25-40 feet. Buy 11am only the little ones bite. Their are hundreds perhaps a thousand of 5 to 9 pound lunkers that have ignored my tackle box for years. What can I do to get these fish to bite? Jig and pig? Could you be specific about lure size, color, line, and weight? The bottom is mostly milfoil and thick. The water is fairly clear to moderate. Is there a video or book that addresses this? Please help.

Patient yet frustrated amature;
Andrew Fote
Andrew Fote, Washington
Read Answer What is your opinion on using live jumbo leeches on smallmouth bass and maybe a tip on how to present them. I fish mainly on Dale Hollow lake in Tennessee.

Thanks, Dave S.
Dave S., Tennessee
Read Answer I love to fish for bass and i'm 42 years old. I don't have a boat, so how can I get started in a bass tournament fishing from shore to start. How then can get better? This is real important to me, but i don't have a whole lot of money. How can i get started?
kathy bor, Iowa
Read Answer I live in Florida and fish a private farm pond. My Favorite lures are rapalas. When you get a big fish on how do you keep them on without them throwing it. I've lost many big fish this way. Do you have any tips or suggestions on how to keep them on.
Zach, Florida
Read Answer I live in Montana and have a cabin in Minnesota that I go to for 2 weeks every year for a vacation. I am a pretty new fisherman but I still love it. I don't have any bass lakes near me. Is there anything that I can do to not lose my touch for fishing even when I don't go?
Colton, Montana
Read Answer Fish a small reservoir- holds good sized largemouth- average depth is 25 ft- lots of cover- which technique works best- what lures and is it best at night or daytime---thanks for your response/. (about 150 acres)
george, West Virginia
Read Answer Hi I'm 18 years old and have been passionate about fishing since I can remember more particular bass fishing. I am looking to buy a new reel and am stuck between the new abu garcia with the manetic drag or the Cardiff. Do you think you could help me out or perhaps suggest another I will be using it for soft plastics also. I really appreciate your time. Thank you
Greyson , Texas
Read Answer If you had a chance to view the bottom of a lake before they closed off the dam,( I have until December) how would you go about making you own personal map?( points that come close to creek channel etc.) What would you use? (cameras, GPS etc.) Thanks
Cliff Persick, Mississippi
Read Answer Hello, My name is Aaron and I am a bass fisherman. I am fishing out in the Newport News reservoir. I know that there are some monster fish in there but I just can't catch them. The waters not real deep, and there is limited isolated cover, do you have any suggestions???
Aaron Brownell, Colorado
Read Answer How does the barometer(weather) effect the fishing? And does wind really have a effect in river fishing? Thanks for the help. Rob
Rob, Illinois
Read Answer When you are fishing for bass and you get a strike but the fish does not get it, should you throw in the same spot or have you probably already scared it away. thanks
larry parish, Tennessee
Read Answer hey Roger, I've recently started to fish alabama's lake guntersville. I know that there is some great fish in those grass beds. So, with that in mind could you give me some good tips. I feel real comfortable fishing jigs, lizzards or carolina rigs. thanks, god bless to you.
adam jacobs, Tennessee
Read Answer Yes I was wondering if you might be able to help me I have been fishing tournaments for about 9 years. (mostly small ones ) I have been having problems with one lake. The lake is Cheatham if you have any info that could help I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you
Michael Saine, New York
Read Answer I'm interested in skipping lures under docks and overhanging limbs, etc. with a baitcaster outfit. What rod length, power and action might be the best suited for this application? Thanks, Carl
carl m smith, Virginia
Read Answer ok!! i'm 15 and have some but little tournement fishing knowledge, im a pond fisher and am learning the ways of lakes and rivers. recently i was told by a fisherman that to go into the big tournement world and be succesfull i need to have "MY" lures. or at least three lures that are mine and noone else has created and/or modifyed in the same manor than I. If this is the case is their and first hand tipoff that you can give me to FIGURE it out and do some damage in those tournements. !THANKS!
Brandon Barr, Ohio
Read Answer Dear Roger. I purchased a Shimano Bantam Curado CU-201 5 bearing left hand reel. The Store clerk could not find the original box or the instructions, they gave me a 10% discount but Im lost without the instructions. Would you know where I can get one, thank you very much, rgds, Jim
Jim Martins, Arizona
Read Answer What is the best lure to use when a cold front comes in?
joe webb, Washington
Read Answer HOW IS A FISHERMAN DETERMINED TO BE A PRO? BASICALLY WHAT HAPPENS TO LOSE AN AMATEUR STATUS? THE REASON I ASK I HAVE BEEN APPROACHED BY A FEW BUSINESSES ABOUT BEING INTERESTED IN SPONSORING ME FOR ADVERTISING RIGHTS (BE IT ON MY BOAT AND OUR HATS AND SHIRTS)

THANKS,
RHINO
RYAN GREGG, Ohio
Read Answer Hi Roger,
I am a teacher and have quite a bit of time to fish the hot summer months here in the Pacific Northwest. Unfortunately, this isn't always the best time to bass fish. I have over 100 lakes within an hour drive, but often find myself stumped on how to catch mid-summer bass. Any suggestions on how to "attack" this situation. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Jason R. Moore
Spokane, WA
Jason Moore, Washington
Read Answer I purchased a curado 200 BSF last year. Throwing the heavier lures is no problem, but when it comes to the lighter soft jerkbaits for instance, I'm having a helluva time setting the reel to get any distance and avoiding the inevitable birdsnest. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanx Dave.
Dave Murphy, Ontario
Read Answer I'm fishing a pond in my hometown. The people that own it have drained it a little. They just refilled it with water maybe a month or so ago. The water is really murky and cold. We fished the other day and caught a couple on a lizard. What would be the best way to catch these fish? How can you tell when fishing soft plastics that a bass has the lure in his mouth?
chad cooper, South Carolina
Read Answer What is so special about the colored lines? What is the best brand to use with 8-10lb.?

thanks
Tyler King, Tennessee
Read Answer hi,
I just bought a dawia procaster with 7:1:1 ratio to set on a berkely pro 6'6" crankbait rod,is the a good match up?

Thank you,
ray
Ray Smith, Oklahoma
Read Answer When fishing a new lake or pond what is the quickest way to find black bass? 80 percent of fishing is finding them. Joseph
Joseph, Florida
Read Answer Sorry, but just one last question. I recently bought some "lite and strike strobe" lures that I saw on OLN. I tried them this late summer and I couldn't get a single bass with them. I don't know how to fish something that blinks and stuff with the timing of your retrieve. Do these types of things even work or are they all a big fluke? There is a topwater lure, a 4-6 ft. lure, a 14-16 ft. lure, and a lure that stays a certain depth like a spinnerbait. They are all crankbaits except the topwater. I'm very new to this and any help on how to retrieve each of these would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks tons!
Colton, Montana
Read Answer For my fishing reel, every time I put line on my reel and I try to let out line, I get huge knots in my line and have to throw it away. Are there any tips you can give me to prevent this from happening?
Colton, Montana
Read Answer Hi, my name is Rene Leon, i'm 15 years old and i am in a group called "teen anglers" and we fish tournaments every month. Next month i have a tournament on Feb. 18th on Harris Chain her ein Florida. I was wondering if you have ever fished this area, and if so, what are the best techniques, lures, and colors to use out there? THANKS alot!

Rene
miamidolphins79@yahoo.com
Rene Leon, Florida
Read Answer Hello Mr. Brown
I would like to receive your autograph. Do you have a photo or trading card you can sign for me? I could make a custom card with your name on it and send it to you with a SASE. All I need is an address. If you have an item to send it would be a great honor for me. Thanks a million...

Terry Foster
102 Yorkshire Court
Euless, Texas 76040
Terry Foster, Texas
Read Answer Hi my name is Ben Johnson I'm 19 and have been fishing all my life it been my dream to be in the PRO'S. I know a lot about fishing but i don't know what to do to become a PRO. I have read some of the other questions that other people has asked. One of them is the same as mine HOW TO BECOME A PRO FISHERMAN. Another question is about the class you offer to help make the first step. I would like to know where it would be at and does it cost anything.

thank you, ben
Ben Johnson, Florida
Read Answer Finally found the perfect rod, now I can't find another or even who makes it! It says "Empire Super Splash SP601C". Can you help me? Skip.
Skip Rouse, Tennessee
Read Answer What is some good artificial baits to catch striped bass with?
Jonathan, Virginia
Read Answer I was wondering. I recently just got back from newport RI and while there went fishing with my Brother in law who is Portuguese. We caught several fish which he calls scopp.y I'm not sure if spelled correct or scop do you know what kind of fish this is or does it go by another name?
Wayne D Dustin, Florida
Read Answer Sir,
I'll be fishing Dale Hollow this coming April and was wondering if you might have a few tips?

Chalmer
Chalmer Crews, Virginia
Read Answer Dr. Mr. Brown, I have just purchased a Shimano "Bantam" Curado 201BSF reel along with a St. Croix "Premeir Cast" 6' Medium Lite action/fast taper rod. I have never used a baitcasting reel or rod before(have used spinning gear my whole life) and was wondering if "the norm" is to have one finger(the index finger) or two fingers above the trigger of the rod. It makes a big difference between the two, because your thumb rides a lot higher on the spool of the reel when you have two fingers above the "trigger". With two fingers above the trigger it feels like you have more "feel and control" over the rod and reel than just using one finger above the trigger. I think that it is probably just a "personal preferance" but I wanted to ask you to see what is "the norm". Thank you for your time.
Anthony De Luz, Pennsylvania
Read Answer I was wondering if i want to be a pro fisherman what is the first step i should take to get into the business is their anything you could do to help me? Please write back when you have the time thank you !
Nate, Michigan
Read Answer How/where/when can I get an interveiw from a pro bass fisherman?

Thanx; Kason McMullin
Hurricane, Utah
Kason McMullin, Utah
Read Answer Could you please let me know if catawba worms can bite/sting. I was wondering because of the horn on the end of the worm. When I was a kid, I always heard that they could sting.

Thanks, Mark
Mark Christian, West Virginia
Read Answer What is the best way to rig a fluke type bait? Texas style with the hook point out the top or out the bottom where the slot is located? Or maybe not texas style?
Dick Elsom, Alabama
Read Answer HELP! I Bass fish mostly with 20# Stealth (Teflon coated SpiderWire) and a Vanish 6" leader. I have yet to find a knot that will hold that combination. The Double Uni-Knot comes close, but is not the best knot for casting (it hangs slightly). The Albright is great for casting, but The Vanish slips out of the knot. Any help would be appreciated.
Mack Parker, Florida
Read Answer What is the best type of bait that a beginner should use to catch bass more often when going fishing in early spring to late summer?
edgar, California
Read Answer Could you explain the differences between casting and flippin a lure. And give me some tips on how to do it.
kole, Georgia
Read Answer Do you know how to use a bait caster? I just got one but i have no clue how to use it. Or can you tell me if theres any good books on how to use one? thanks
Scott, Massachusetts
Read Answer hi how can we make carp bait and lion bait best regards.
BAGHERZADEH, New York
Read Answer Hey I fish a lot in places where there are alot lilly pads and I can see nice bass under them and nothing seeems to bring them out and I was wondering if you could help me out with what lure has work the best for you in this situation during mid summer.

Thanks
Matt Potter, North Carolina
Read Answer I recently was on a fishing get away at Kentucky Lake. The Large Mouth Bass has a 16" limit on them. I was catching baskets full of, what appeared to be large mouths, but my dad said they may have been Ky Bass. He said they resemble Large Mouth, and it would be easy to get the two confused. Is there an easy way to tell the two apart? What is the difference?
Traci Harrod, Kentucky
Read Answer Hey i wanted to know, what should i do, or use, to catch a stubborn bass that isn't intersted in anything i have tried. Live crawlers, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, Rat-L-Traps, he just swims on past it. He's in a small pond with relatively clear water and hangs around the edge about 2-3 ft. under. I fish in the early morning and thru the afternoon when i go fishing there. The place has monster bluegill, which i normally go after when that bass still isn't doing anything. Its about a 20-25 incher and i wanna get him. I use Eagle Claw rods and reels(5-8 footers) and all types of reels, Just need some feedback on what on earth im doing wrong!??!
Daniel Myers, Tennessee
Read Answer There is a fishing tournament this weekend on Kincaid Lake. Its been raining this whole week and I was wondering what I should use to reel in the big ones?
Jacob, Kentucky
Read Answer Today, I am planning to go fishing. It's 82 degrees outside and I was wondering what kind of tackle I can use while fishing for bass in a river.

thank you,
Sylvie Lefrançois, from Québec
Sylvie Lefrançois, Out of Country
Read Answer Do you know where I could get the color charts for a COLOR CLECTOR? Also, I would like to find the instructions for one. Thanks, Susie
Susie , Missouri
Read Answer I've been fishing for bass since I was 5. I'm now 11. I live in missouri. I never catch any bass with lures. I've only had luck with plastic worms. Can you tell me anything to help me cath bass off of lures. Thanks.
roddell, Missouri
Read Answer I have just started bass fishing and have been told that I should get myself some plastic worms. However I have NO clue what Kind, color, and style to buy... So can you help me out on the in's and out's of worm fishing.. What is the best colors? How do I pick the right hook and sinker for a worm? What brand do your recomend? Are they different ways to fish them? and when is the best time to fish them? By that I mean what is a decideing factor for you to choose your bait once you get out on a lake? I am from North East Tennessee and of course I am fishing the lakes around here. ? I'm sorry for some many question but I really have no clue. I would love any helpful hints you can give me. Thanks for you time and trouble.. -Robert
Robert Abbott, Arkansas
Read Answer I got a bass tourney this weekend on lake beulah. The temp as been in the 60's and should be cloudy and chance for storms this weekend. What do you recomend using this early in the season?
doug, Wisconsin
Read Answer Mr. Roger I was wondering how I can get started in fishing in Pro Tournament Bass fishing. I really think I can fish with those guys and it has been a dream of mine all my life. Any information world be appreciated.
David Colquett, Alabama
Read Answer How do you know which lure or types of lures to use for which conditions? Also, what colors work best with different conditions (i.e. clear vs. cloudy sky, or shallow vs. deep water)? In other words, how do you know how to catch fish when you show up to the lake or pond? Thanks!!
Mark Rendon, Texas
Read Answer I'm fishing a tournament on a river Saturday. The weather on Tuesday and Wednesday was low 80's. Wednesday night it dropped down to the 20's. Today it is 35 degrees and tomorrow's temps. are forecasted to be low 40's. Saturday's temp. 55 degrees. Where should I look for the fish, on the banks or deeper? What are the best lures to try?
Julie, Massachusetts
Read Answer What would be more effective this time of year in a 3 acre pond about 20 foot in the middle stained/muddy water.....live bait or artificial?
Kevin McClain, Mississippi
Read Answer My question for you is that I live near this pond behind my house. It's about up to 3 feet and it has muddy water and a bunch of moss in it. Which lure should I use in the spring and if so how do you use the lure. Thanks.
Luke Hargis, North Carolina
Read Answer I WILL TO FISHING LAKE MILLE LACS IN MINNESOTA AT THE END OF JUNE. I HAVE HEARD THAT IT IS A GOOD SMALL MOUTH AND WALLEYE LAKE. I WAS WANTING TO KNOW IF YOU HAD EVER FISHED THIS LAKE OR KNOW A FEW THINGS ABOUT IT? IF SO WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AND WHAT TYPE OF LURES AND BAIT WORKS WELL?

THANKS,
BRAD
BRAD PENNINGTON, Virginia
Read Answer I have never caught a bass. I have tried all bass baits imaginable. I fish in a small lake called Guasti Regonal Park. It has a dock no weeds, no underwater brush, nothing. Although it has big rig tires in the middle, I'm not sure if it has a good bass population or not. No cover what so ever. Where do i look for bass in this water? Also, what bait do I use? Thank you for any answers you come up with.
kurt, California
Read Answer How long does spring and fall turnover typically last? The past two weeks have been shot down here. Thanks for your time.
Jack, Texas
Read Answer I fish on a large lake in new mexico that for the past two years has continuously been dropping its level (now 120+ feet below normal) and normally has clear water, but for two or more years has been full of an algae that can leave your clear line green, making the water look more like pea soup. And I have tryed every tactic and lure that I have and I am lucky if I get two fish all day. Please help me figure out what I might do to put more fish in my boat.
Bob Pack, New Mexico
Read Answer I am interested in taking the next step in my fishing lifestyle. I know you get this question all the time but, what are the first steps to becoming a pro bass fisherman?And give me more details on your fishing school.
David Brewer, Mississippi
Read Answer Hello,
I would like to ask, if it rains very hard for a day or two, before fishing in a lake, the water seems to be very muddy almost chocolate like. What parts of the lake would you concentrate the most, and what color lures would you use. With the air temp. at around 50 to 60 degrees. I seem to have a great deal of problem locating bass when the water condition is cold and very very brown and muddy.

Any help appreciated.
David Yang, South Carolina
Read Answer Hi, my name is Matt. I was wondering if you could give me any advice for the steps to become a pro angler. I am only 15 and I am in a jr. bass club. I have 5 tournaments to fish this summer. If you could give any advice on how to get started that would be excellent Thank you for your time.

Matt,
Matt Newby, Kansas
Read Answer Hi: I was wondering if a black colored line would effect how many fish I catch. Can the fish see the line? I do most of my fishing in Wisconsin. Either in the Fox River or Lake Pukaway. Thank You.
Justin Triplett, Illinois
Read Answer I am very intrested in becoming a professional angler and I was wanting to ask for some advice on the steps I need to take. Also What exactly is a contingency prize? I see that a lot on the differnt tournament trail and I was wondering if that meant to basically win a boat as a co-angler you had to be a boat owner.

Thank you for any advice you can offer.
God Bless You,
Shawn
Shawn, Illinois
Read Answer How do I put a hook on an artificial worm? Do you think them ngc worms are a good idea to fish with?

Happy Valentine's Day
Eric, Indiana
Read Answer Hi, I am entering a neighborhood tournement and I was just wondering if you had any tips to give me. We are not allowed to use any kind of boat so we have to fish off the banks, and that's what is making it hard for me. So if you have any type of advise I would appretiate it.
Brandon Eubank, Texas
Read Answer How about some tips on spooling both a bait caster and a spinning reel for a better and smoother cast and to eliminate line twist?

Thanks
Tom, Virgina
Read Answer Very often I fish a small 40 acre lake that in the past has produced some very nice bass, but in the past year has not produced very much at all. The water level is much lower than in the past, and much if not all of the cover the bass had is now out of the water. Also I must mention that this lake was constructed from an old highway construction pit. Can you suggest some ideas to help me catch more bass? Also this lake is highly pressured by trout fisherman. Thank you!
Bob, New Mexico
Read Answer Where should i look to catch winter bass on lakes like Lake Fork , and Sam Raburn??

good luck
lee l.
Lee Livesay, Texas
Read Answer How do i find and catch big winter bass on powerplant lakes? I cant find the bigger fish and need some tips? good luck

lee livesay
Lee Livesay, Texas
Read Answer Hi Roger, I'm trying to get some information on sightfishing or bedfishing. Maybe a video or some helpful hints. I'm tired of getting beat in the spring by sightfisherman. I really want to learn how this year, can you give me any help or suggestions. Thanks
Tom Wolverton, New Jersey
Read Answer Do you know how to get sponsors? How? What are the best ways to get them (tactics)? Thanks for your time! MIKEE+
Michael Cary, Out of Country
Read Answer Does the walking worm really work. I bought it in red fleck one and the june bug one. Is that the wrong colors? Am I moving it too slow? I set it up for carolina rig should I use a bobber? When I go on the bottom all I attract is snapping turtles. Can u tell me what I'm doing wrong? Like should I use a bobber and get new colors?
Rob, New York
Read Answer Hello Roger, Thank you for answering my question Yesterday, but there might have been some confusion. I don't undo the knot and tie another knot in the same place. I tie a loop at the end of my line, push the loop through the eye of the lure or hook and then pass the lure through the loop and pull tight. To put on a new lure, i just do everthing in reverse .. i pass the lure back through the loop and pull the line out of the eye. I still have the loop on my line, so i never retie the knot. Hope this is clearer.
Bruce Billson, Out of Country
Read Answer Hello Roger, When fishing for bass, to quickly change from one lure to the other I have tied a loop at the end of my line, I pass this loop through the hole of the lure and then pass the loop over the lure and pull tight. If I need to put on another lure I just have to pull the line back over the lure and pull the line out and put the next lure on. Is this advisable or should you always tie a knot and then when you want to change the lure, cut the lure off and tie the next lure on with a knot? This wastes alot of line. The one thing I have noticed is that some of my lures don't have a natural action when I use the loop method, they seem to roll or twist in the water. Thanks for your time Bruce
Bruce Billson, Out of Country
Read Answer This may be far fetched...but. about 6 yrs. ago I found a spider jig that wal-mart sold and it caught alot of river smallies for us. It had a twin skirt with double tail body. I've looked everywhere and can not find it. Hopefully you may be able to help. Thanks
steve gomez, North Carolina
Read Answer I have only recently started bass fishing, and am still trying to find my way through the maze of equipment available. Your tackle recommendations, particularly for reel, rod and bait selection, would be very much appreciated. Thankyou for your time.
Andrew, District of Columbia
Read Answer I am fishing a new water over the weekend. How should I tackle-up, and how much should I prepare?
Anthony Lavers, Texas
Read Answer our class is researching about careers. I picked a pro fisherman, so I have a few questions to ask you.

How much money do you get if you win a tournament?
How often are there tournaments?
Do you have a sponsor?
Do most pros have another job?
How many people are in tournaments?
Do you travel often?
Is it always money you win in tournaments?
What do you do during the winter?

Thank you for taking the time to read this and respond.
Josh, Minnesota
Read Answer Follow-up to my last question. How does the salinity content of tidal water affect bass? What levels of salinity can they tolerate? At what level can they spawn it?
Scott Sewell, Maryland
Read Answer Please tell me how tidal bass are affected by the salinity content of the water.
Scott Sewell, Maryland
Read Answer I need to know what kind of bait to use in my area in charlton I can't catch any fish
Chris Miner, Massachusetts
Read Answer How come I never catch bass or crappie in the winter? Not icefishing! Its like there hibernating or something!

Kyle
Kyle, Pennsylvania
Read Answer what is the lure that you think is the best lure for catching large mouth and how do you work it?
Chris, Michigan
Read Answer I am looking to buy a new life vest, and I am thinking about those new ones that inflate with a co2 cartridge. Are they dependable and should i get automatic or manual inflation? Short or long? thank you...
Gerald Evans, Ohio
Read Answer I am at the point where I feel I have the ability to purchase rods that are situational...by that I mean specific to fishing crankbaits or soft plastics or spinnerbaits, etc. Trouble is, there is so much out there to chose from that I am a bit confused. In know most pros fish jigs and tubes on 7 -7.5 ft flippin stick with baitcasting gear and that a softer tip is a better choice for running crankbiats, but it is still confusing. Let me tell you what I currently fish: 6.5 ft Shimano Spinning Rod/Reel (Spirex) Med/Heavy action for jigs, tubes & worms. 6 ft Bass Pro Bionic Blade Spinning Rod/Reel (Spirex) for lighter crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwaters. I also have a 6.5 ft Bass Pro Crankin' Stick (Quantum ProExpress baitcasting reel) for larger crankbaits and spinnerbaits, and finally, a 7 ft Med/Heavy Bass Pro Extreme XPS rod matched with an Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 reel for heavy soft plastic and jig fishing. I just feel as if I have a "mixed bag" of rod/reel combos when it comes to manufacturers. I would like your thoughts on my equipment and would appreciate any suggestions for improving it. I have recently joined a bass club and am looking forward to participating in tournaments very soon.
Drew, Connecticut
Read Answer Do you know of anyone who still sells the "Combo Clector", I've searched all over and cannot find one? Thanks for your time.
Mike , Oklahoma
Read Answer I fish the miami river for smallmouth bass. When it gets dark on the river you might as well quit. they don't do anything. How come? Also when it gets cold weather you are done. How come? I fish dale hollow and many other lakes and don't have any problem catching smallmouth after dark and in cold weather. I have tried deep pools in cold weather and it is useless you don't catch smallmouth in cold weather in the river.
william Edester, Ohio
Read Answer I fish a lake with a maximum depth of 35 feet and I was wondering if the bigger bass hang out on the drop offs or in the shallows. What baits work best on drop offs?
Bobby King, Illinois
Read Answer When fishing for bass and walleye, I'd like to know exactly how deep my crankbaits are running. I've heard about people who test their lures to find out exactly how deep each one runs. How do you do this?
Bob Johnson, Nebraska
Read Answer

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