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Friday, October 11, 2024
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The Changing Landscape of Tournament Bass Fishing: A Balance Between Passion and Profit

Brian Carter
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The Changing Landscape of Tournament Bass Fishing: A Balance Between Passion and Profit

Dear Editor,

I am writing to talk about tournament bass fishing and how it is changing. It seems like money is becoming more important than the actual sport. This concerns me because I love bass fishing, and I want to make sure we stay true to the sport.

In recent years, the prizes for winning bass fishing tournaments have gotten much bigger. While this is exciting and gives anglers a reason to compete, it also makes me wonder if we are in it for the money or for the love of the sport. We need to remember why we started: to show off our skills and have fun in a competition.

Unfortunately, the money has started to change things. Bass fishing used to be about coming together as anglers and enjoying our shared passion. But now, it feels like it’s all about making money. Some anglers are treating it like a job instead of something they truly enjoy. This shift in focus can take away from the true spirit of the sport.

The money has also introduced some negative things into the sport. Some anglers are cheating or bending the rules just to win. This is not fair and goes against what bass fishing is all about. It tarnishes the sport’s integrity and reputation. We need to remind ourselves that winning isn’t everything and that it’s more important to play fair.

Not only that, but the money has made it harder for some anglers to participate. Entry fees and travel costs can be expensive, and not everyone can afford them. This means that talented anglers without much money might miss out on the chance to compete. It’s not fair that the sport has become exclusive only to those who can afford it.

We need to refocus on what really matters in tournament bass fishing. Let’s put the emphasis back on the love for the sport instead of the money. We can do this by creating stricter rules, stronger punishments for cheating, and a renewed focus on fair play. We should also make sure that everyone has equal opportunities to participate, regardless of their financial situation.

It’s important for tournament organizers and sponsors to step up as well. They should prioritize sportsmanship and fair competition over money. By promoting these values, they can create a better future for tournament bass fishing.

Lastly, we need to think about the future of the sport. We should encourage young anglers to get involved and show them the right way to do things. By offering educational programs and mentorship opportunities, we can help them develop their skills and love for bass fishing.

To sum up, we need to think about the direction in which tournament bass fishing is heading. Let’s not forget why we started: for the love of the sport. We need to prioritize fairness, integrity, and inclusivity. By doing these things, we can ensure that tournament bass fishing remains a sport we can all be proud of.

Sincerely,

Bridgford Foods Takes a Stand: Lawsuit Launched Against Bass Fishing Organization for Scamming Anglers

Brian Carter
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Bridgford Foods Takes a Stand: Lawsuit Launched Against Bass Fishing Organization for Scamming Anglers

Lynchburg,VA – 12.17 – Bridgford Foods, a leading provider of high-quality food products, announced today that it has filed a class-action lawsuit against the Wild Wild West Tournament Bass Circuit. This legal action follows allegations that the tournament organization scammed anglers out of their rightful winnings, tarnishing the integrity of the sport.

The Wild Wild West Tournament Bass Circuit, also known as the Apex Tour, approached Bridgford Foods several years ago seeking a partnership. Recognizing the opportunities to support and promote bass fishing in the western region, Bridgford Foods agreed to back the tournament circuit. However, this year, numerous reports emerged that anglers were not receiving their prize money after winning tournaments.

As the allegations continued to mount, it became evident that the Wild Wild West Tournament Bass Circuit was engaging in dishonest practices, failing to pay anglers, and evading communication with the affected individuals. Determined to rectify this situation, Bridgford Foods intervened, asserting their commitment to standing up for the rights of anglers.

In a remarkable display of leadership and integrity, Bridgford Foods has shouldered the entire financial burden of the class-action lawsuit, assembled a legal team, and initiated proceedings against the Wild Wild West Tournament Bass Circuit. Their primary objective is to ensure that the anglers receive the compensation they deserve for their participation and success in the tournaments.

Importantly, Bridgford Foods emphasizes that it has taken these actions solely for the well-being of the anglers involved and the preservation of the sport’s integrity. They firmly state that this is not a publicity stunt or an attempt to bolster their own reputation. Rather, it is a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even at their own expense.

This development raises concerns about the impact on sponsorships within the bass fishing industry. Companies looking to align themselves with tournaments and organizations may now scrutinize potential partnerships more rigorously, focusing on the credibility and ethics of the entities involved. In light of this lawsuit, sponsors are likely to prioritize organizations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting anglers and upholding the principles that underpin the sport.

Bridgford Foods has long been recognized as a company that prioritizes ethical behavior and integrity. Their unwavering support for the anglers affected by the Wild Wild West Tournament Bass Circuit’s actions is a testament to their values. By taking decisive action on behalf of the bass fishing community, Bridgford Foods sets an example for others, showing that the sport must be protected against any actions that compromise its reputation.

As this lawsuit progresses, Bridgford Foods will continue to keep the angling community and its supporters updated. The company stands firm in its commitment to upholding the values that make bass fishing a beloved and respected sport.

Important Fish Habitat: Enhancing Survival in Smith Mountain Lake by Chad Green

Brian Carter
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Important Fish Habitat: Enhancing Survival in Smith Mountain Lake by Chad Green

Creating fish habitat for juvenile fish in Smith Mountain Lake is important for their survival and the overall health of the ecosystem. Juvenile fish rely on their surroundings to provide shelter, protection, and a source of food as they grow and mature. By adding structures such as artificial reefs, and rock piles, anglers and conservationists can enhance the habitat and increase the chances of survival for young fish. These structures not only provide hiding places for juvenile fish, keeping them safe from predators, but also attract prey species, ensuring a reliable food source. Ultimately, investing in fish habitat in Smith Mountain Lake is a vital step in maintaining a balanced ecosystem, supporting the growth of healthy populations of fish, and preserving the cherished sport of bass fishing for generations to come.

Below is a video of what took place on Smith Mountain Lake with the DWR



The Bass Chill: How Winter Affects Our Finned Friends🐟 ❄️

Brian Carter
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The Bass Chill: How Winter Affects Our Finned Friends🐟 ❄️

As another year approaches its end, a widespread change unfolds in every corner of the natural world. The deciduous leaves 🍁 wear their annual red and golden apparel, while animals, big and small start preparing for the season of scarcity. Our finned friends, the bass fish 🐟, are no exception to this rule as winter 🌨, for them, is an entirely different ballgame.

It’s a surprising fact for many, but winter doesn’t necessarily start for bass when it does for us. For the submerged creatures, winter effectively begins when the water temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit 🌡. Bass are cold-blooded creatures. Like other reptiles and amphibians, their body temperature fluctuates with the immediate environment. The wintry water doesn’t just take a toll on the fish’s temperature. It also brings about drastic changes in their metabolic activities, thus signaling the onset of the hard times.

So, what happens when the water temperature starts to plunge in the late autumn? 🍂 For bass fish, life begins to slow down. At 50 degrees Fahrenheit, these fish start to feel the chill. They adjust by becoming less active and their metabolism follows suit. The once vibrant and agile hunter gradually loses speed and its voracious appetite due to the slowdown in its physiology.

During summer, 🔆 a bass fish typically requires to feed once every two to three days. However, as the bass move into winter dormancy, their feeding frequency reduces drastically to cater to their sluggish metabolism. They might only need to feed once every few weeks during the harshness of winter. While this might seem a disadvantage, it is, in fact, an adaptation that enables survival in resource-scarce conditions.

The effects of cold water temperatures do not stop at the diminution of their metabolic processes and behavioral changes; it goes beyond. Recreational anglers 🎣 often note that the bass fish become difficult to catch as the water temperature goes down. This isn’t because the fish has developed an aversion to the lure. Instead, it’s due to something much more interesting; their sensory systems tone down.

Bass rely mainly on their vision 👀 and lateral line system – a row of hair-like structures that extend along their body and detect vibrations in the water – to hunt their prey. However, the chilly water suppresses these sensory faculties, which explains their lack of interest in the bait and responds to artificial lures.

These changes often prompt bass fish to migrate 🗺 to warmer waters. They retreat from shallows to deeper zones where temperatures are more stable. This seasonal migration is another feature that defines the winter for bass.

Moreover, during this season, there is also a shift in the daily activity patterns of bass, known as diel behaviors. With shorter days and longer nights, bass become more active during the daylight hours, soaking up the slightly warmer temperatures of the mid-day winter sun ☀️.

Interestingly, not all species of bass have the same winter behavior. For instance, largemouth bass tend to become more dormant in cold waters, while the smallmouth bass are known for their activity even in colder conditions.

So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that ‘bass winter’ is not simply a time defined by a calendar 🗓. It’s a time of complex behavioral, physiological, and environmental changes. Amid the brutal conditions, these incredible creatures present an impressive display of survival and endurance.

While winter presents arduous conditions for bass, it also offers a fascinating slice of aquatic life. And understanding these winter behaviors of bass can enhance not only our appreciation of these resilient creatures, but also our success catching them.

Whether you’re an avid angler or just a nature enthusiast, there’s much to learn and love about the enchanting world of bass, especially during the winter months. So, the next time you see a snowflake ❄️, remember, it’s not just our world that’s changing, but the underwater world of the bass is transitioning too. Happy ‘bass’ winter! 🐟 ⛄.



December Kerr Lake Fishing Report by Captain Rick Morris

Brian Carter
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December Kerr Lake Fishing Report by Captain Rick Morris

December bass fishing on Kerr lake and Gaston should settle down to good old basic bottom Baits like football jigs, shaky head worms and Carolina rig, however don’t forget a jerk bait in clear water on steep banks and spoons for bass in very deep water in or near the Creek channels.. for example on Kerr In butchers creek mid way all the way to the lake there is a lot of bait, bass and stripers. With the recent rains the water level is coming up and the water color is beginning to stain, water temperatures are right at 50 degrees and dropping.The Magnum spotted bass on Gaston are still grouped up in small areas and only bite very early. Dec should bring the main lake points back into play for largemouth and spotted bass focus on good old, vertical rocky points, fish the weather and time of day always. Remember the jig is king for big bites in December.🎣

Capt. Rick. Instructional bass, fishing, and multi species group, charters🎣http://www.rpmfishing.com/guide-service.html



Where Did the Lizard Go? 🤔

Brian Carter
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Where Did the Lizard Go? 🤔

Introduction:
Bass fishing enthusiasts are well aware of the diverse range of bait options available to attract these prized fish. Among these options is the lizard, a versatile and effective bait that deserves a place in every angler’s tackle box. In this essay, we will dive deeper into the world of lizard baits, exploring their characteristics, techniques for rigging, and tips for maximizing their effectiveness.

Why the Lizard?
🎣 Realistic Appearance: Lizards are designed to mimic the natural prey of bass, making them incredibly enticing to these predatory fish. Their segmented bodies, textured skin, and lifelike color patterns make them appear like the real thing.
🎣 Versatility: Lizards can be used in various fishing scenarios, including flipping, Carolina rigging, Texas rigging, and even as a trailer for spinnerbaits or jigs. Their adaptability allows anglers to target bass in different water conditions and depths.
🎣 Action and Movement: The long, slender body of the lizard allows for enticing action and movement, which triggers the bass’ predatory instincts. Whether slowly crawling along the bottom or swimming through the water column, the lizard’s natural movements draw in bass and provoke strikes.

Where Did the Lizard Go? 🤔
In recent years, the rise of innovative soft plastic lures, such as creature baits and swimbaits, has somewhat overshadowed the traditional lizard bait. Anglers have been exploring new techniques and experimenting with different presentations. However, this does not diminish the lizard’s effectiveness. Its proven track record and ability to consistently catch bass make it a reliable option that should not be forgotten.

Pulling Them Back Out of Your Tackle Box:
📌 Variety of Colors: Lizards come in a wide array of color options, making it possible to match the natural forage prevalent in your fishing location. Try using darker colors in murky water and brighter colors in clearer water conditions.
📌 Size Selection: Lizards are available in different sizes, allowing anglers to adapt to the bass’s feeding pattern and the prevailing fishing conditions. Smaller lizards work well for finesse presentations, while larger ones can entice bigger, more aggressive bass.
📌 Weedless Rigging: By rigging the lizard weedless, it can be presented in areas with vegetation, giving anglers the opportunity to target bass in their preferred hiding spots. The weedless Texas rig and Carolina rig are popular choices for presenting lizards in heavy cover with minimal snagging.

How Should They Be Used? 🎣

  1. Texas Rig: Rig the lizard with a bullet weight and a weedless hook, allowing it to be cast into heavy cover and effectively imitate a lizard swimming or crawling. Experiment with different retrieve speeds and pauses to mimic the lizard’s natural behavior.
  2. Carolina Rig: Rig the lizard with a bullet weight and a long leader, creating a natural presentation as it glides and hops along the bottom. This rig is particularly effective for covering larger areas and locating bass.
  3. Drop Shot Rig: Hook the lizard with a drop shot rig to present it in a more finesse manner, especially in clearer water conditions. This technique works well when bass are less aggressive and require a more subtle presentation.
  4. Flipping and Pitching: Rig the lizard with a heavy weight and a straight-shank hook, enabling accurate and precise presentations in tight spots. Flip or pitch the bait into heavy cover, such as thick vegetation or under docks, and let it fall naturally. Be prepared for a sudden strike during the descent.

Conclusion:
The lizard may have slipped out of the spotlight in recent times, but its effectiveness in bass fishing remains unchanged. With its realistic appearance, versatility, and enticing action, the lizard is a bait that every angler should consider having in their tackle box. By utilizing various rigging techniques such as the Texas rig, Carolina rig, drop shot rig, and flipping and pitching, anglers can maximize the lizard’s potential to attract and catch bass. So, next time you head out to the water, don’t forget to bring along the lizard and dive deeper into its potential for a successful bass fishing adventure! 🎣🦎



Full field is set for 2024 Bassmaster Classic on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

Brian Carter
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Full field is set for 2024 Bassmaster Classic on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

56 anglers will compete at the 2024 Bassmaster Classic at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, which will be held March 22-24 in Tulsa, Okla. 

Photo by Andy Crawford/B.A.S.S.

December 13, 2023

Full field is set for 2024 Bassmaster Classic on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — With the entire 2023 Bassmaster tournament season in the history books, the field is officially set for the next renewal of fishing’s grandest spectacle.

A group of 56 anglers will compete in the 54th Bassmaster Classic, scheduled for March 22-24, 2024 on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees with weigh-ins and festivities in Tulsa, Okla. From an age and experience standpoint, it’ll be one of the most diverse fields in the event’s history, with competitors ranging from 17-year-old Floridian Aaron Yavorsky (the youngest participant in Classic history) to veteran Oklahoma pro Jason Christie (a 10-time Classic qualifier, the 2022 Classic winner and one of the clear favorites to score another victory on his home waters in 2024).

“With the field in place for the 2024 Classic, it’s amazing to kind of take a breath and look back over the 2023 season that brought us here,” said Chris Bowes, vice president of tournaments for B.A.S.S. “These guys put in countless hours of work just to get to this point — and the result, for them, is a chance to score the biggest victory of their careers. For B.A.S.S., the result is another powerhouse field for the greatest celebration of professional bass fishing.”

As usual, the bulk of the field came from the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings, with AOY winner Kyle Welcher of Opelika, Ala., leading the way. Other notable anglers who qualified from the Bassmaster Elite Series include…

  • Greg Hackney of Gonzales, La., an 18-time Classic qualifier and the 2014 Bassmaster Angler of the Year
  • Brandon Palaniuk of Rathdrum, Idaho, a 13-time Classic qualifier and two-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year (2017, 2022)
  • Hank Cherry of Lincolnton, N.C., an eight-time Classic qualifier and back-to-back Classic winner (2020, 2021)

“One of the most exciting things about the Classic is you never know who’s going to claim the next piece of history,” said Elite Series Tournament Director Lisa Talmadge. “We could certainly have a first-time winner — someone who doesn’t get a lot of attention leading up to the event. But to hold that trophy, they’ll have to go through a field of anglers who’ve been there before and done this at the highest level for a long time.”

Defending champion Jeff Gustafson of Canada received an automatic berth, and a pair of anglers from the Elite Series AOY standings were double-qualified for the event, opening up spots for others who would have been just outside the cut.

South Carolina pro Patrick Walters finished third in the AOY race, easily inside the cut. But since he also earned an automatic berth with his victory in the Elite Series regular-season finale on the St. Lawrence River — the only Elite event that offers such a berth — it opened a spot for Tennessee rookie Cole Sands (42nd, AOY) to make his first Classic appearance.

Will Davis Jr., of Alabama also finished comfortably inside the Classic cut at 31st in the AOY standings. But since he also earned a berth as the first-ever back-to-back winner of the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Lake Hartwell in October, a Classic spot was opened for fellow Alabama pro David Gaston (43rd, AOY). New Hampshire’s Timothy Dube, who finished second in the Nation Championship, and Wisconsin’s Josh Wiesner, who placed third, also earned Classic berths.

Throughout the rest of the field, you’ll find pros who’ve raised blue trophies more than once on the Elite Series stage. Those with multiple wins on pro bass fishing’s most prestigious tour include South Carolina’s Brandon Cobb (two), Arkansas pro Joey Cifuentes III (two), Maryland’s Bryan Schmitt (two), Georgia’s Drew Benton (two), Hackney (four), Texas pro Lee Livesay (three), Palaniuk (five), Christie (five), Connecticut pro Paul Mueller (two) and Walters (two).

“Think about that,” Bowes said. “Nothing can prepare you for the pressure and excitement of the Classic, but the Elite Series probably comes closest — and you have anglers scattered throughout this field who’ve topped Elite Series competition more than once throughout their careers. It’s a steep path to that Classic trophy this year.”

The field will feature eight winners from the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens, including Georgia’s Justin Barnes, Ben Milliken of Texas, North Carolina’s Powell Kemp, Wisconsin’s Adam Rasmussen, Alabama’s Joey Nania, Tyler Williams of Maine, New York’s Kyle Patrick and Kentucky’s Matt Messer.

Jody White of Vermont won the Open on the St. Lawrence River in July but did not qualify for a Classic berth because he failed to fish all three events in Division 3 as the rules require. The spot that would have belonged to him went to Mueller (41st, AOY).

The field was completed Saturday when Yavorsky won the two-day Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off on Florida’s Harris Chain of Lakes by a margin of more than 22 pounds. His remarkable story happened the same year that University of Montevallo (Ala.) angler Easton Fothergill qualified through the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s just weeks after having emergency surgery to remove an infected abscess from his brain.

“If you want storylines, this Classic has them,” Bowes said. “This event is a dream for the media, for fans of the sport and certainly for the anglers taking part.

“Even though the season just ended, I wish it started tomorrow.”

Grand Lake hosted previous Classics in 2013 and 2016 — and as with past Classics in Tulsa, daily weigh-ins will be held at the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa, with the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo across the street at the Cox Business Convention Center, which boasts 275,000 square feet of event space. Daily takeoffs will be held about 90 miles away at the Wolf Creek Park and Boating Facility on Grand Lake.

2024 Bassmaster Classic Qualifiers

Matt Arey, Shelby, N.C.

Justin Barnes, Ellaville, Ga.

Drew Benton, Panama City, Fla.

Stetson Blaylock, Benton, Ark.

Scott Canterbury, Odenville, Ala.

Brandon Card, Salisbury, N.C.

Hank Cherry, Lincolnton, N.C.

Jason Christie, Dry Creek, Okla.

Joey Cifuentes III, Clinton, Ark.

Brandon Cobb, Greenwood, S.C.

Drew Cook, Cairo, Ga.

John Cox, DeBary, Fla.

Will Davis Jr., Sylacauga, Ala.

Bob Downey, Detroit Lakes, Minn.

Timothy Dube, Nashua, N.H.

Austin Felix, Eden Prairie, Minn.

Easton Fothergill, Grand Rapids, Minn.

Kyoya Fujita, Minamitsuru, Yamanashi, Japan

Cooper Gallant, Bowmanville, Canada

David Gaston, Sylacauga, Ala.

Jeff Gustafson, Kenora, Canada

Greg Hackney, Gonzales, La.

Justin Hamner, Northport, Ala.

Cody Huff,Ava, Mo.

Taku Ito,Chiba, Japan

Carl Jocumsen, Toowoomba, Australia

Chris Johnston, Otonabee, Canada

Cory Johnston, Cavan, Canada

Powell Kemp, Scotland Neck, N.C.

Kenta Kimura, Hirakata, Japan

Shane LeHew, Catawba, N.C.

Lee Livesay, Longview, Texas

Matt Messer, Warfield, Ky.

Ben Milliken, New Caney, Texas

Brock Mosley, Collinsville, Miss.

Paul Mueller, Naugatuck, Conn.

Joey Nania, Cropwell, Ala.

Brandon Palaniuk, Rathdrum, Idaho

Luke Palmer, Coalgate, Okla.

Kyle Patrick, Cooperstown, N.Y.

Jacob Powroznik, North Prince George, Va.

Jay Przekurat, Stevens Point, Wis.

Adam Rasmussen, Sturgeon Bay, Wis.

Tyler Rivet, Raceland, La.

Matt Robertson, Kuttawa, Ky.

Cole Sands, Calhoun, Tenn.

Pat Schlapper, Eleva, Wis.

Bryan Schmitt, Deale, Md.

Hunter Shryock, Ooltewah, Tenn.

Bryant Smith, Roseville, Calif.

Patrick Walters, Summerville, S.C.

Kyle Welcher, Opelika, Ala.

Clark Wendlandt, Leander, Texas

Josh Wiesner, Fond du Lac, Wis.

Tyler Williams, Belgrade, Maine

Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla.

Bassmaster Classic Winning Jigs In-Stock 

Brian Carter
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Bassmaster Classic Winning Jigs In-Stock 
Bassmaster Classic Winning Jigs In-Stock 
Smeltinator® Jigs NOW SHIPPING From Northland Fishing Tackle®!
BEMIDJI, Minn. (December 13, 2023) – This past August, Northland announced that the 2023 Bassmaster Classic winning Smeltinator jig would be licensed, branded, and distributed by Northland moving into 2024.With a relationship that goes back 20 years, Northland talked seriously with both Bassmaster Classic Winner Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson and Bass Tactics founder, Bryan Gustafson (no relation), to join forces and push product development, production, marketing, and sales into a much bigger realm.A few months after the licensing agreement with Bryan Gustafson and Bass Tactics to produce, distribute and sell the Smeltinator and Smeltinator Underspin Jigs under the Northland brand name, the original Smeltinator Jig is NOW AVAILABLE!With 13 colors, four sizes (1/8-, ¼-, 3/8-, and ½-ounce), and five hook sizes (1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0, and 5/0) from which to choose, bass anglers are sure to find the right jig for whatever situation they face. Jigs come three per card for $7.99 (MSRP). 
Smeltinator Jig (SMELT)
Smeltinator MagicThe 2023 Bassmaster Classic wasn’t the first time that Gussy stacked big weights and solid limits of smallmouth bass on the Tennessee River out of Knoxville, Tennessee. Back in March of 2021, Gussy first put the “moping” technique to use, sinking Kenora, Ontario-designed Smeltinator Jigs to fill his ‘well for weigh-in at the 2021 Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite. Gussy went wire-to-wire for four days of the event, weighing 63 pounds, besting second place by an impressive seven pounds. Gussy trailered home to the far north with over $100,000 in his pocket.Word of the “moping” technique traveled quickly through social wires, sending serious bassers on the hunt for Gussy’s favored jig head—the Smeltinator Jig.
Two years later Gussy did it again, ‘moping’ suspended smallmouths with the Smeltinator Jig on forward facing sonar, proving the money method for the 2023 Bassmaster Classic title, the $300K payout, and honors as the top bass stick on the planet.The Smeltinator is hardly new to the fishing scene. The jig and the moping technique have been dominating the Canadian tournament scene for a decade. Gussy, Northland founder John Peterson, Canadian professional angler Jamie Bruce, and Bryan Gustafson of Bass Tactics have won many tournaments and cashed big checks at events like the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship and Kenora Bass Invitational using the Smeltinator Jig and the moping technique.
GOLD
GLOW
LAKE WINNIPEG
OPENING NIGHT
PURPLE SILVER
RALPHS SMOKE
SILVER
UNPAINTED
WHITE
PINK WHITE
YELLOW ORANGE
CHARTREUSE MOSS
CAMO
The “moping” technique involves fishing a fluke or minnow-style plastic on the Smeltinator Jig and the Smeltinator Underspin Jig over the top of deep suspending smallmouth bass. The design of the jig allows it to hang perfectly horizontal like a real shiner, smelt, or shad. Suspending smallmouths “feed up” on these schools of baitfish. Hanging the Smeltinator above actively feeding fish has proven to yield serious bites and big tournament weights.Discover the magic of Smeltinator Jigs yourself!



The Z-Man Jack Hammer: A Must-Have in Every Angler’s Tackle Box

Brian Carter
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The Z-Man Jack Hammer: A Must-Have in Every Angler’s Tackle Box

Introduction:
The ZMan Jack Hammer bladed jig has gained immense popularity among anglers due to its exceptional design and effectiveness in catching fish. Packed with innovative features and thoughtful design elements, this bait has become a go-to choice for many experienced and novice fishermen. Let’s dive deeper into why the ZMan Jack Hammer should be a staple in your tackle box.

Cutting-Edge Design:

  • The ZMan Jack Hammer features a hydrodynamic head design, allowing it to cut through water effortlessly, increasing its casting distance and accuracy.
  • Its stainless steel blade produces a distinct vibration, mimicking the erratic movement of a wounded baitfish, thereby attracting predatory fish.
  • The blade is attached to a swivel, reducing line twist and ensuring the bait maintains its action throughout the retrieve.

Extremely Durable:

  • The bladed jig is constructed with a durable, chip-resistant head, ensuring it can withstand repeated strikes against structure and cover.
  • The patented rubber skirt is hand-tied and glued, preventing it from slipping or tangling, even during aggressive retrieves.
  • Made with high-quality materials, the ZMan Jack Hammer can withstand tough conditions like heavy vegetation, rocks, and wood without losing its effectiveness.

Versatility:

  • The ZMan Jack Hammer is incredibly versatile, able to excel in various fishing conditions, including grass, shallow cover, and open water.
  • It can be fished at various speeds, ranging from slow-rolling to fast-ripping, allowing anglers to customize their presentation.
  • The bladed jig can be used as a search bait or flipped and pitched into specific targets, making it suitable for both shallow and deep water applications.

Fish-Attracting Colors and Options:

  • The ZMan Jack Hammer comes in a wide variety of vibrant and realistic colors, including natural baitfish imitations to match different forage species.
  • Anglers can choose from different weights and hook sizes to fit their specific fishing needs.

Unmatched Fish-Catching Abilities:

  • The ZMan Jack Hammer’s unique design, lifelike action, and vibration make it irresistible to predatory fish.
  • Its ability to imitate wounded baitfish triggers aggressive strikes, ensuring a higher hook-up ratio and maximizing fishing success.
  • Anglers can expect to catch a wide range of freshwater species, including bass, pike, walleye, and more, with the ZMan Jack Hammer.

Conclusion:
If you’re an angler looking for a high-quality bladed jig that produces consistent results, the ZMan Jack Hammer is a must-have in your tackle box. Its cutting-edge design, durability, versatility, and fish-attracting abilities make it a top choice among fishing enthusiasts. With a vast array of colors and sizes available, this bait can be tailored to meet specific fishing conditions. Invest in the ZMan Jack Hammer and experience the thrill of catching more fish on your next fishing trip.

Get Yours Today



Two Texas Hammers Say FFS Played Limited Role in 2023 Success

Brian Carter
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Two Texas Hammers Say FFS Played Limited Role in 2023 Success


Story by Alan McGuckin

In a state where it seems avid bass anglers are equal in number to Whataburger drive-thrus, few can rival the achievements of Russell Cecil and Stephen Johnston over the past two decades, and that includes yet another stellar year in 2023.

They’ve competed against one another for years, share a friendship, and have a whole lot in common. Cecil lives near Lake Conroe, and Johnston guides on Toledo Bend and Rayburn, but both run a smooth riding Vexus Boat with a huge front deck, and their facial hair features a fair amount of salt and pepper.

They also leaned very little on forward-facing sonar en route to sitting atop angler of the year points races in mega-tough trails such as the Brandon Belt Team Series, the Texas Team Trail, and the Toyota Series.

The two recently met up at iconic Cassels-Boykin boat ramp on Lake Sam Rayburn where they offered not only their thoughts on forward facing sonar, but also the lures that brought them success this past season.

“I’m definitely not the youngest guy in the tournament field anymore, so I guess my two top lure choices for the past season kind of reflect my reliance on something old and something new,” grins Cecil, a highly successful tackle sales rep for brands like 6th Sense, Falcon Rods and Costa eyewear.

“There are still very few tournaments when I don’t have an old school 10” worm tied on. Aside from the very heart of the spawn, I’ll have a big 6th Sense Ridge Tail worm tied on to fish all kinds of habitat from 8 to 30 feet deep,” he emphasizes.

The uniquely designed worm features a flat tail, so it doesn’t twist your line like traditional big ribbon tail worms often do, and its action proved plenty appealing to a 9-pounder at Choke Canyon during a Texas Team Trail event. Cecil typically ties it to 20-pound Sunline fluorocarbon with a 3/8-ounce weight and a 5/0 off-set Owner wide gap hook.

“Forward-facing sonar certainly became a bigger part of my fishing this year, but still only accounted for around 30% of what we weighed-in. When we did utilize it, a 3.8” Divine swimbait on a 3/16 Divine jig head featuring a shorter shank hook was my go-to lure for intercepting bass we were looking at on the screen,” says Cecil.

As for Johnston, who has declined more than one invitation to fish professionally on a national level in favor of guiding and competing closer to home, the latest sonar technology accounted for almost none of his success in 2023.

“Ninety-five percent of what I took to the scales this past year had nothing to do with forward-facing sonar. Relying on that technology just didn’t line up with how we were catching them. I actually caught a ton of fish pretty darn shallow on a new prototype swim jig with a boot tail trailer that lure designer Tim Reneau gave me to use,” says Johnston.

He believes the swim jig’s unique side-to-side hunting action, versus a typical straight back to the boat swimming action is what generated so many strikes for him at famous Texas fisheries like Ray Roberts and elsewhere this season.

So perhaps the best take-away from these two Texas bass fishing legends is a willingness to try something new, whether it’s sonar technology or the wide wobble of a new jig head, without fully abandoning the baits that have proved equally as tasty as crispy fries dipped in Fancy Ketchup at one of those 700+ orange and white burger joints that dominate the Lonestar State’s landscape.

To learn more about the Vexus Boats like the ones these two top anglers love, please visit https://vexusboats.com/.



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