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Monday, December 15, 2025
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Lake Toho Readies to Host 2024 Abu Garcia College Fishing National Championship

Brian Carter
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Lake Toho Readies to Host 2024 Abu Garcia College Fishing National Championship
Nearly 300 of the Nation’s Top Collegiate Anglers to Compete for the Opportunity to Fish as a Pro in 2024 Toyota Series Championship and REDCREST 2025

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (Jan. 2, 2024) – The best college fishing teams from across the nation will visit Kissimmee, Florida and Lake Toho next week, Jan. 9-11, for the 2024 Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI National Championship at Lake Toho.

Hosted by Experience Kissimmee, the 15th annual College Fishing National Championship will feature 138 teams of the nation’s best collegiate anglers competing for a $43,500 prize package, including a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard, an additional $10,000 and the chance to advance to the 2024 Toyota Series Championship and REDCREST 2025 – MLF”s most prestigious championship – to fish for top prizes of $235,000 and $300,000, respectively.

“We’re excited to host the MLF Abu Garcia College Fishing National Championship for a second year,” said Tyler Weyant, Director of Sports Development at Experience Kissimmee. “Following the overwhelming success we had last year at Lake Toho, we are eager to invite everyone to join us once again and experience the excitement firsthand. In addition to the incredible action happening on the water, we encourage everyone to explore the local shops and restaurants that make Kissimmee truly unique.”

Both members of the winning team and the runners-up at the 2024 Abu Garcia College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2024 Toyota Series Championship, where they will compete as pros for a top prize of up to $235,000. The winning team’s highest finishing member at the Toyota Series Championship will advance to REDCREST 2025 to compete against the world’s best pros for the sport’s top prize of $300,000.

Both members of the third-place team at the College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2024 Toyota Series Championship to compete as co-anglers for a shot at winning a $33,500 Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower outboard.

The Auburn University duo of Blake Milligan of Auburn, Alabama, and Matthew Parrish of Decatur, Alabama, will return to fish the College Fishing National Championship next week. Auburn University is the only college to have fished in the national championship every year since it’s inception, and the 2024 event will be Milligan’s fourth consecutive year to qualify for the event.

“We work hard toward qualifying for this all year long,” said Milligan. “The advancement opportunities to the Toyota Series Championship and to REDCREST allow us to get a foot in the door, and gives college anglers the opportunity to move on to the next level of professional fishing.”

After finishing atop the MLF College Fishing Southeastern Conference in 2021 and 2022, the Auburn team adjusted to the new National Conference with ease in 2023 and earned the Tackle Warehouse School of the Year Presented by QuikTrip title.

“I think our whole team is very much in unison right now,” said Milligan. “We’re excited to get into the year and super hyped up. Our teams are fishing the first event of the season on the Harris Chain on January 5th, then practice for the championship starts on the 7th. We have a bunch of guys down there ready to go and we are excited to carry this momentum into the first event of the year and into the national championship.

“I’m fishing with the same partner as last year,” continued Milligan. “We took 12th place in 2023, so I’m excited to get back to Kissimmee and hopefully build off what we learned and have an even better finish this year.”

Milligan, a senior double-majoring in business marketing and business management at Auburn, said his goal in this event is to finish better than he has in any past championship events.

“It’s hard to predict what the weights will be for this event,” said Milligan. “When we fished there last year, a nearly 30-pound-bag was weighed in on the final day, so I figure it will be up there. We had mid-teens on Day 1 and nearly 20 pounds on Day 2 and took 12th place, so I’d be super happy with high teens on the first two days. On the final day, it’s go big or go home, so we’ll just have to see.

“We found some good stuff in Kissimmee and Toho last year and we get a day and a half of practice before the event, so our plan is to run the stuff we found last year, and if that isn’t working, we will adjust and try to find something that will. We’re hoping the fish are in prespawn patterns by the time we get there. Kissimmee has some giant fish in it, so it will be a great event either way.”

Anglers will take off from Big Toho Marina, located at 69 Lakeview Drive, in Kissimmee at 7:30 a.m. ET each day of competition. Weigh-ins will be held at the marina starting at 3:30 p.m. and will be livestreamed daily. Fans are welcome to attend the event or tune in to the weigh-in and follow the online coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .

Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI teams compete in nine regular-season qualifying tournaments around the country. The top 12% of teams from each qualifying event advance to the following year’s Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI National Championship.

For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular College Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.



A Kayak Angler’s Best Friend

Brian Carter
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A Kayak Angler’s Best Friend
A Kayak Angler’s Best Friend
Five EGO landing nets that make kayak fishing more fun and rewarding.
Caldwell, ID (January 2, 2024) – Kayak fishing has grown over leaps and bounds over the past decade and a half with vessels growing from once simple, sit-inside boats to sit-on-top, miniaturized bass boats with all the bells and whistles of professional tournament rigs.And while it’s easy to get caught up in outfitting today’s ‘yaks with sophisticated electronics and accessories, it’s absolutely critical not to forget about the essentials…like a reachable and reliable landing net.Good thing for Idaho, USA-based fishing accessories designer and manufacturer, EGO Fishing, who’s been there listening to kayak anglers’ needs since the start of this on-the-water craze. 
“The thing we identified early on talking with kayak anglers is our nets had to be lightweight, unobtrusive, and easy to handle in confined spaces. So that’s exactly what we came out with,” says EGO Fishing CEO/Founder, Grant Corbett. Corbett continues: “Space is limited fishing out of kayaks, so a net designed for this kind of fishing has to slip easily into either a built-in rod holder or one in a crate, which many kayak anglers use. Typically, it seems like a majority of kayak anglers like to store the net in a rod holder right behind the feet for easy access when catch a fish.” 
EGO S2 Slider Compact PVC Net
The #1 Selling Net With Kayak AnglersCorbett says his number #1 selling kayak net is the EGO S2 Slider Compact PVC Net (72013), which has extra reach, a common request from kayak anglers for landing fish farther from kayaks.“The net handle extends from 18” to 36” and its hoop size is 17” x 19” which means you can still land some pretty decent-sized fish from a good reach, but it’s not so bulky, cumbersome, or a nuisance in the kayak. It weighs under two pounds,” continues Corbett. The EGO S2 Slider Compact PVC Net is comprised of PVC material for ease on fish and healthy releases. Plus, the woven fabric is tough for toothy fish to cut through, a consideration for kayak anglers fishing salty backwaters, off-shore areas, and northern latitude freshwater full of toothy critters. 
EGO WADE Medium Black Rubber Net
Other Popular Kayak Net OptionsBesides the top-selling EGO S2 Slider Compact PVC Net, EGO Fishing’s wade fishing nets were designed to do double-duty for kayak fishing, both in standard and blue camo Kryptek design, all with an 11-inch hexagonal-shaped handle for strength and easy-to-hold fish landings, an 11-inch elastic tether, and 17” x 19” net hoop.  The EGO WADE Medium Clear Rubber Net (71268) and EGO WADE Medium Black Rubber Net (71266) are both great options for any angler looking to invest in quality for just over $75.The EGO Kryptek WADE Medium Rubber Fishing Net (75268) in Clear Rubber and EGO Kryptek WADE Medium Rubber Fishing Net (75266) in Black Rubber are both favorites with kayak anglers around the globe. 
A Serious Kayak Angler’s TestimonialNortheast, Florida-based pro tournament kayak angler and former guide, Rory Gregg, many Top 10s on the IFA Kayak Fishing Tour and is very critical about the gear he uses. “EGO Fishing started sponsoring the IFA Kayak Fishing Tour about 10 years ago, and that’s when I was first exposed to their kayak fishing nets,” says Gregg. “Since day one, it’s all I’ve used.”While Gregg has fished about every kayak and wade net EGO offers, his favorite is the EGO S2 Slider Compact PVC Net. “I like that the handle extends our super-far for solid fish grabs, as well as its hook-snag-free netting, the fact it floats, and the large hoop. It’s perfect for chasing the ‘Grand Slam’ down here of redfish, speckled trout, and flounder but works great in freshwater, too.”But Gregg also recommends the benefits of EGO Fishing WadeNets for other kayak angling use. “If you’re a novice kayak angler or looking for a smaller net, EGO Wade nets are a great solution. They fit well in the hand, there’s a clip and lanyard you can attach to the kayak, and even if it falls out of the boat, they float so you can pull the the net right back in,” concludes Gregg. 
EGO Fishing Kayak Net ConstructionWhen it comes to kayak net construction, EGO fishing utilizes aluminum, corrosion-resistant stainless steel parts, and polypropylene-injected molded parts, besides the obvious netting materials composed of clear and black rubber, PVC, nylon, and coated nylon. While all materials have their place, given the photo-catch-release nature of most kayak fishing tournaments, clear rubber mesh helps preserves fish slime coating for healthy release and resists hook snags for faster fishing. And some anglers like black rubber mesh, which is also very soft on the fish’s slime-like coating and fins, too—and will not knot up when being used. 
Hassle-Free For Dealers & DistributorsOn the retailer and distributor side, this modular design makes shipping easy. The net head/hoop/netting ships in one box and the handle in another, eliminating the need for a giant box like what’s required when shipping fixed-handle fishing nets. Cardboard costs go down; shipping cost is reduced; and, box damage is almost non-existent, often a problem with large landing net boxes getting caught in conveyors. Then, once in the dealer or distributor space, the separate handle and hoop/netting boxes require less storage space than standard giant, one-piece net boxes.Note to RetailersEGO is committed to your store, offering FREE custom fit modular displays for an EGO landing net assortment. The display is proven to improve the net selection process, while bolstering sales through the instant availability of S2 Slider accessories and multiple hoop sizes.  



January SML Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

Brian Carter
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January SML Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

SMITH MOUNTIAN LAKE FISHING REPORT
By: Captain Chad Green
www.lastcastguideservicesml.com


January fishing fishing will be getting better as all species and bait are starting to make their winter migration. Some baitfish are moving shallower in certain areas while other areas they are still very deep for this time of year. The upper reaches of the lake will have cooler water temps and shallower baitfish. The fishing could be challenging with the extreme water clarity we have for this winter so far. Any time you enable a fish’s eyesight they can become hard to catch. Smaller bait profiles and light line will be very critical during winter.
Visit https://missilebaits.store/and check out all they have to offer.
Special Thanks to Brian Carter at the https://thebasscast.com/
Check out Smith Mountain Boat and Tackle Penhook for your boating needs https://www.smboats.com

PRACTICE CATCH AND RELEASE ON CITATION SIZE FISH

Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass
The bass will be in many different depth ranges this month. 2-30ft depending on what they are feeding on. Crawfish can be a lot of their diet in the winter months. You also have some groups of fish that are traveling every day in search of baitfish in open water. Jerkbaits can provide some great winter fishing this month along with Alabama rigs, Crankbaits, swimbaits, drop shots, jigs etc. Pick whichever one you choose that fits you best or use this time of year to learn a new technique. Target rocky areas, drop offs, docks, and brush piles. Bass are structure oriented so they will relate to something even just one school of baitfish. Windy days offer great fishing as long as its not East or Northeast wind. Warm sunny days with no wind can be tougher days to be out in the winter.


Striped Bass
The upper reaches of the lake will be the best until water temps reach lower 40’s. Then they will migrate back down to the lower to mid section of the lake. Striper fishing has been very good this month as their is an abundance of fish in mouths of the larger creeks 30-50ft first thing in the morning. As they day gets longer they move to timber until early evening. There have been some bigger fish traveling shallower in the 20 ft range in smaller schools as they always do in winter. Blind casting can be the best way to target those fish as they move at a fast pace looking for baitfish. Night fishing can be great this time of year for larger fish. Target the same areas by casting to the banks and a slow retrieve should produce some good fish. Swimbaits, Jerkbaits, Stickbaits can all be productive. Light line during the day on deeper fish can be critical. Small Damiki rigs will produce the smaller fish while larger Damiki type rigs will produce the larger fish.


Crappie
Most of the Crappie have been in the 15-25 foot range. The crappie fishing has been tough most of the fall. There are plenty of crappie to be found but may be hard to catch. Small Jigs and Minnows will be baits of choice.



Secrets To Navigating New Bass Fishing Waters: Overcoming the Struggles and Winning the Game

Brian Carter
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Secrets To Navigating New Bass Fishing Waters: Overcoming the Struggles and Winning the Game

Every bass angler, novice or veteran, encounters the same riddle at some point – how to successfully fish a new, uncharted lake. It’s a significant struggle that many anglers face. You’re dropped into unfamiliar territory; the water is a mystery, concealing secrets beneath its surface — the prime fishing spots, the active feeding grounds, the species-specific behaviors. The challenges may seem daunting, but they are not insurmountable. With sound advice and a few advanced strategies, you can transform an intimidating expedition on unknown waters into a triumphant fishing adventure.

The initial question every bass angler has is this: “How do you approach a new body of water, identify the best areas, and catch fish quickly?” It’s a learning curve even the most seasoned pros have experienced. However, there are a few time-tested principles that can help immensely. To master new territories, there are four chief commandments every angler needs to follow.

First and foremost, search for prime spawning habitat. It may sound unusual, but locating excellent breeding grounds can function as a compass to guide you where to fish. A bass’s annual cycle is intertwined tightly with spawning periods. Identifying zones with superior spawning environments often correlates to a larger fish population.

Secondly, blend your methods with the current seasonal pattern. Knowing whether it’s the spring spawn, summer’s tranquility, the fall feed, or winter’s calm will help refine your strategy. For example, during fall, pay attention to the shad migration occurring in the back of creeks. The large population of shad, with millions moving into these areas, attracts bass, their primary predator. Following this shad trail can lead you to an unbelievable bass haven.

The third principle may seem less about techniques and more about mindset: make the lake your own. It is crucial to find comfort and confidence in unfamiliar territories. People often make the mistake of adapting their style to fit the lake, changing their techniques based on common sayings or local fishing folklore. Doubt can creep into your abilities, leading to less successful outcomes. Find an area and method that complements your fishing style, build your momentum, and then venture into trying new strategies suitable for that particular lake.

The fourth principle is akin to the third, but it specifically focuses on the bait. Similar to choosing your fishing areas, select the baits based on what you are comfortable with. Although every lake may have its preferred irresistible item for fish, start with what you are intimate with. Your comfort bait could potentially unlock an uncharted fishing zone within the lake that others may have overlooked.

Applying the concept of turning a lake into a personal fishing ground, a seasoned angler recounts a perfect example. The crystal waters of the White River Chain Lakes in Arkansas, notorious for their depth and steep edges, may seem formidable to a seasoned Florida angler used to the lush grasslands brimming with bass. But instead of adapting to a new method, he applied his familiar Florida techniques to the White River shores. Hunting for the comparable setup of shoreline bushes, he utilized his familiar flipping and pitching techniques with minor tweaks to catch a slew of fish. This experience stands as prime evidence for the benefit of adapting a lake to your strengths, rather than the other way around.

Navigating new waters is a common struggle for bass anglers – but one that can be overcome. Implementing these principles can significantly improve your fishing outcomes, turning an intimidating endeavor into a rewarding experience. Remember, it isn’t about conquering a lake, but about understanding it and working in harmony with its natural patterns while utilizing your strengths. So, arm yourselves with these tips, and embrace the thrill of the unknown – you might be just a cast away from your biggest catch yet.



The End and The Beginning: Making the Most of Fishing by Bruce Callis Jr

Brian Carter
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The End and The Beginning: Making the Most of Fishing by Bruce Callis Jr

As we gather around the fire to stay warm and celebrate what Santa brought us, or wish he had brought, my thoughts wander to what this year has been like and what lays ahead for 2024. We have a lot of great plans at The Bass Cast and in my personal life. More to come on that.


The year 2023 has been a great joy mixed with a lot of struggle. We all know how life can be. But it is all in how we see things. We can see the negative and fail, or look for the positive and keep moving forward. For me, I like to be like Walt Disney and Keep Moving Forward.


For me, every year starts on a high note. Why? No, it isn’t because of a New Year’s party, but fishing shows. Why? Because I get to learn, find deals, and most importantly, meet anglers. From the kids up to the old guys, it is all about meeting new friends, making laughter and memories.


Raleigh then Richmond started off my 2023. Loved the Raleigh show, but it is a good drive down there. But Richmond is the most important to me. The reason is that it is our big event. It is nothing like the old show we had at the Fairgrounds, but the closest I have come to it is the Bassmaster Classic. Those days are gone and it is up to us to help make this one great. Last year wasn’t the greatest by a lot of people’s standards, but again, it is all about how you look at things. A lot of events in January hurts. And the economy doesn’t help either. We just need to keep supporting it and keep it growing. Personally, I liked Richmond better than Raleigh. I get to listen to the seminars and learn. Maybe just that something different that will help me become a better angler.


I didn’t get the opportunity to go to the Fishersville Expo, but it is growing. And it serves an area of the state that was in need of this great event. And then The Fishing Flea Market at the Eagles in Fredericksburg. This is a great opportunity to find some great deals. I took my grandson and we got him some new rods and reels to get him set up. Always a great time to go with my little brother and now grandson too.
And then the big show, the Bassmaster Classic. If you have never had the opportunity to attend one, you really need to try and go if it is in your area. I have been very lucky to be able to attend them with The BassCast and to report on them to you. There something special about being at the weigh-in. I have had the privilege of riding into the arena with the pro as he headed to the stage. I have had the opportunity to be back stage to see what happens after the fish are weighed. The prep work before the boats come in. And to talk to the anglers afterwards. But I also got to see it from the stands with everyone else. Just something so special.


And the EXPO at the Classic is just so exciting. New products, new innovations, the Professional Anglers, the deals, there is something for everyone. And the legends of the sport, Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston, Hank Parker, and Woo Daves, they are all there. There is no way you can really take it all in in just one day.
And then there is the fishing. Last year was a challenge for me. Injuries can do that. They limit how well you can get out on the water and how long you can stay out. There were days when my knee just wouldn’t let me stand, and days when sitting just didn’t help either. But I still managed to get out. I still found the bass. And I continued to grow. I learned that slowing down can make all the difference. Just wish I didn’t have to get injured to learn that lesson.


And then others getting injured slowed down some adventures. Snookie being hurt meant that our adventures pretty much stopped for a while. Thankfully she is getting better and we are looking forward to an even more exciting 2024. And more funny things to share with you to go along with the fishing.
We also got back into the Free Kids Fishing Day at the Refuge. It was a causality of COVID. This is one of those events that I love to do. Watching a kid catch their first fish is just something special. We had a small turnout because of the late notification of the event, but at least we had it. Every child leaves with a bag of goodies and a smile on their face. There is nothing like it. I look forward to 2024’s event!


I also decided to step into the world of tournament kayak fishing. I entered a KBF, Kayak Bass Fishing Tournament that would have the winners competing on Guntersville on Veterans Day weekend. August was my first tournament, but the weather put a damper on my ability to get out and I ended up in 7th place for the month. September was my last opportunity I was determined to make it happen. And I attacked it with confidence! I know my abilities and am confident that I can win! I fished hard and had the lead by my birthday. But even with the lead, you never feel safe, and I didn’t. I knew I need to catch some bigger bass.
And my lead got smaller and then disappeared. I went from an 8 inch lead to an 8 inch defective. And I went to work again. I fished hard and on the last day of the month I was behind my 2 inches. I knew I just had to find one 5 pound bass and it would be close. I found plenty of bass, just not enough to upgrade those 2 inches. I finally moved into an area I thought might offer me the opportunity to catch a big bass. I finally hook into one I thought would be it, but some how my line snapped right at the reel. The bass jumped and my heart fell. I felt sick. My line was laying on the water and I paddled over and got it back, hoping to get my lure back. As I pulled in the line by hand I finally thought I was getting close, but the line changed direction and was going in the opposite direction. And then I felt the tug. I couldn’t believe it. I grabbed my net and attempted to pull in the line and get it into the net. What a mess. I wish I would have had the video of it all. I know it would be awesome and a good laugh. Finally I got her in the net and just sat there trying to collect myself. I got straight and got my picture and slipped her back into the net to check and make sure it was clear for submitting. And then submitted it. I then took some pictures and released her back to be a prize for other day.


As Ike says, Never Give Up, and I didn’t. I fished hard and knew I could do it. It was the drive to win that made it happen. And I waited to make sure that the leader didn’t manage to catch another big one. Nerve racking to say the least! I had fun getting out there and competing and I achieved my goal.
I would get my opportunity to go compete against some of the toughest anglers. But I didn’t get to go because of other factors. And before I would have left to go my Durango’s brakes messed up. So not getting to go actually was a blessing as I would have had to drop out. But I was still happy, I had done what I set out to do!


I finished out the year fishing. Going out with my grandson on the 28th, we had a great time just being together and enjoying the time together. After all, isn’t that it is all about really. We didn’t start fishing because of the tournaments, it was all about having fun. It was partly fun and for food. Now we do it for the fun. The tug is our drug. I can’t see how someone takes winning to the level of cheating to achieve it. I want to be the best because of my ability. If I lose, it is because someone else did better, and it fuels me to go do better.

And what will 2024 bring? The shows start us off, then the Classic in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Free Kids Fishing, ICAST, and fishing adventures all are on my list. And The BassCast is improving to bring you even more. Some changes are happening now, while some are still to come. So make sure to stay up to date on the website and in Social Media. Let’s all make it a great year. Like Franc White use to end his show, The Southern Outdoorsman, “Do yourself a favor, take a kid fishing!” And make a memory to last a lifetime.



Mastering Cold-Water Bass Fishing in Clear Lakes

Brian Carter
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Mastering Cold-Water Bass Fishing in Clear Lakes

Winter time brings a whole new set of challenges for bass anglers. As the water temperature drops, the behavior of these elusive creatures changes, forcing fishermen to adapt their strategies accordingly. In this article, we will explore expert tips and techniques for targeting cold-water bass in clear lakes.

  1. Understanding Bass Behavior in Winter:

As the water cools down, bass tend to become less active and slow down their metabolism. They often move to deeper waters or seek shelter near structure, such as submerged rocks, fallen trees, or deep holes. By identifying these areas using topographic maps and sonar technologies, anglers can increase their chances of locating and enticing these cold-water bass.

  1. Choose the Right Bait:

In cold water, a slow presentation is essential for triggering strikes. Select lures that mimic the natural forage of the bass, including crawfish, shad, or small fish. Finesse jigs, small plastic worms or tubes, and swimbaits are popular choices. Opt for natural color patterns such as green pumpkin, watermelon, or silver, as these closely resemble the typical meal choices of bass in clear, cold water.

  1. Experiment with Bait Presentation:

Adapting your bait presentation to the winter conditions can significantly enhance your chances of success. Slowly dragging or hopping a jig along the bottom, flipping a soft plastic into brush piles, or using a slow, steady retrieve with a swimbait are effective techniques. Remember, patience is key as the bass may be less willing to chase after their prey during this season.

  1. The Importance of Scent:

In colder water, a bass’s sense of smell becomes increasingly valuable. Enhance your bait’s allure by applying scent attractants specifically designed for cold-water fishing. These attractants help trigger a bass’s feeding instincts and can make the difference between an empty hook and a trophy catch.

  1. Adjust Your Line and Rod Selection:

Using the appropriate fishing gear in cold water is crucial. Opt for lighter lines with minimal or no stretch, such as fluorocarbon or braided lines, which provide better sensitivity to detect subtle bites. Pair these lines with a sensitive rod designed for finesse techniques and a fast action tip to ensure you feel every nibble.

  1. Incorporate Deadstick Techniques:

When the water temperature drops, bass become increasingly lethargic and may not always engage in aggressive strikes. Employing deadstick techniques can be highly effective. Pause your lure near cover or structure, allowing it to sit motionless for extended periods. This mimics an easy meal for the cold-water bass and often entices them to strike.

  1. Location is Key:

In clear lakes, observing the surrounding environment is just as important as your lure selection. Look for signs of baitfish activity, such as diving birds or schools of fish near the surface. Bass are often close by, waiting to feed on these smaller prey. Additionally, focus on areas with warmer water, such as shallow pockets or sun-exposed banks, as these spots tend to attract more active bass.

  1. Never Underestimate Stealth:

Lastly, in clear water, bass can easily detect unnatural movements and disturbances. Practice stealthy approaches and maintain a low profile on the water. Avoid making unnecessary noise, and cast with precision to minimize spooking the fish. Remember, patience and finesse are crucial when fishing during the colder months.

By incorporating these tips and techniques into your winter bass fishing arsenal, you are increasing your chances of landing those elusive cold-water bass in clear lakes. Remember, understanding the behavior of bass during this season, adapting your presentation, and utilizing the right gear are the keys to success. So, bundle up and hit the water, armed with knowledge and determination to outsmart these crafty winter bass!



Mastering the Art of Bass Fishing: Chasing Dreams or Settling for Mediocrity?

Brian Carter
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Mastering the Art of Bass Fishing: Chasing Dreams or Settling for Mediocrity?

Introduction:
In today’s fast-paced world, where distractions seem to be lurking around every corner, it is essential that we evaluate how we spend our time. For aspiring anglers looking to turn their passion into a profession, every moment counts. The question we must ask ourselves is whether we are truly dedicated to achieving our dreams, or if we are merely content punching a time clock.

Wasting Time or Chasing Dreams?
Becoming a professional angler requires more than just skill; it demands unwavering dedication, hard work, and strategic time management. We must examine how effectively we utilize our precious time. Do we spend hours mindlessly scrolling through social media instead of honing our fishing techniques? Are we capitalizing on every opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and improve our craft? Or are we content with just daydreaming about being on the water, while our potential drifts away like a lost fish?

Having A Clear Goal:
To embark on any meaningful journey, we must have a clear goal in mind. As aspiring professional anglers, we need to ask ourselves, “What am I doing to become the best angler I can be?” Setting specific, achievable goals is crucial to guide our actions and provide a roadmap to success. Without a definitive direction, we risk meandering aimlessly through life, never attaining the fulfillment that comes from pursuing our passions with purpose.

Dreams vs. Reality:
Dreaming about a life on the water, casting our lines into the unknown, can be intoxicating. However, dreams are only the starting point. To turn our aspirations into reality, we must be willing to put in the hard work and sacrifice necessary to succeed. Many individuals may have a romanticized vision of being a professional angler, but few are willing to put in the relentless hours of practice, constant learning, and dedication required to excel in the field.

Chasing Excellence:
Achieving greatness requires stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing challenges head-on. Instead of wasting time on frivolous endeavors, we can channel our energy into activities that propel us closer to our goals. Every minute spent studying the habits and habitats of different fish species, researching cutting-edge techniques, or networking within the angling community acts as an investment in our future success. It is through these consistent efforts that we transform ourselves from dreamers into doers.

Personal Accountability:
At the end of the day, it falls upon each individual to take ownership of their time and actions. Punching a time clock may provide a sense of stability and routine, but it is not synonymous with fulfillment. Only by taking responsibility for our choices can we break free from the cycle of mediocrity and strive for something greater. Are we willing to sacrifice temporary comfort for the opportunity to reach new heights and make our dreams come true?

Conclusion:
Becoming a professional angler is an aspiration that requires more than just wishful thinking. It demands sacrifice, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to making the most of our time. Every moment spent idly is an opportunity squandered. Instead, let us prioritize our goals, work tirelessly to improve our skills, and embark upon the journey to become the best anglers we can be. So, are you content merely punching a time clock, or are you ready to cast aside distractions and pursue excellence on the water? The choice is yours.



Your January-March Weather Outlook

Brian Carter
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Your January-March Weather Outlook

Information from The Weather Channel.com

The start of 2024 is expected to bring mild conditions to much of the West and North i​n a reversal from the first three months of 2023, according to the most recent outlook released by The Weather Company, an IBM Business, and Atmospheric G2.

The table will be set this winter by El Niño. This natural climate phenomena tends to flip the temperature patterns in the U.S. during the winter – milder winters in the North and cooler than average winters in the South. You can see this pattern in the general outlook for the first quarter of 2024 above.

Here are some month-by-month highlights. Check out our complete deep dive here.

-All three months will feature a much above average start to the year in the Northwest. This is something that NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center agrees with.

-C​ooler than average conditions are most likely in the Southeast, but this may fade as we move toward spring.

-M​uch of the Southwest will see near-average to slightly above-average temperatures.

-T​he Northeast is likely to see a warm start, then flirt with average in February and March.

-T​he Plains will generally be above average.

Read our entire report and see all the maps here.



Hooked Up on Time: Winning the Mental Battle in Tournament Bass Fishing

Brian Carter
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Hooked Up on Time: Winning the Mental Battle in Tournament Bass Fishing

Imagine this – it’s the day of the much-anticipated bass fishing tournament. Your palms are clammy against the rod, and your heart races in time with the rippling water. A question pops into your mind – “Am I wasting time?”

Bass fishing, especially in a competitive scenario, goes beyond the right tackle choices and casting the line. One of the primary elements underpinning the tournament angler’s success is efficient use of time and a resilient mental game. Both are equally consequential, yet often undervalued.

Let’s talk about time first. In the exciting world of bass fishing, time is more than just minutes ticking by; it’s a priceless asset that can single-handedly dictate the day’s success or failure. As any seasoned angler knows, preparation is an integral piece of the puzzle. Long before the tournament’s opening blast, avid anglers spend hours studying the fishery, scrutinizing weather conditions, understanding bass behavior, and selecting top-tier gear. But are they thinking about time management? Herein lies the oversight.

In a leisurely fishing day out, time might feel like a friendly companion, a pleasant, unhurried melody accompanying the symphony of wildlife sounds. In a tournament, however, time morphs into a relentless competitor, racing against each cast, each reel in, adding an invisible layer of pressure.

Now, time’s ruthless race leads us to the mental side of things. The psychological aspect of bass fishing is a constant undercurrent, subtly influencing every decision an angler makes and every cast they throw. When anglers start questioning if they are ‘wasting time,’ getting ‘spun out,’ or succumbing to stress and doubt, they inadvertently embark on a mental downward spiral.

The sheer pressure of a ticking clock can trigger anxiety, ultimately clouding judgment, slowing reactions, and significantly impacting performance. Are you catching fewer fish? Is your spot not working out? Should you switch lures? The invisible battle with these questions can turn a promising day on the water into a tale of ‘the one that got away.’

So, how do we navigate this treacherous mental terrain? The answer lies in preparation and perspective. Embrace the idea of ‘controlled haste.’ Spend enough time pre-tournament to understand your plan but be flexible enough to switch gears if the fish aren’t biting. Remember, each moment spent overanalyzing is a moment not spent fishing.

As anglers, we must realize that we have ‘hooked’ ourselves the moment we start questioning our actions or plans. The true mastery of bass fishing comes with synchronizing our mental state with the steady, unchanging rhythm of nature.

In the end, fishing, even tournament bass angling, is just as much about experiencing and embracing the great outdoors as it is about landing the winning fish. So yes, efficient time management and a strong mental game are crucial in a fishing tournament. But remember, we are never ‘wasting time’ when we are out on the water, reeling in lessons and experiences, one cast at a time.



 ?Smeltinator® Underspin Jigs In-Stock? 

Brian Carter
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 ?Smeltinator® Underspin Jigs In-Stock? 

LIMITED QUANTITY of Smeltinator® Underspin Jigs NOW SHIPPING from Northland

Smeltinator® Underspin Jigs In-Stock 
LIMITED QUANTITY of Smeltinator® Underspin Jigs NOW SHIPPING from Northland!
BEMIDJI, Minn. (December 26, 2023) – A couple weeks back, the bass fishing community celebrated the arrival of Northland’s new Smeltinator® Jig. Since, they’ve been selling like wildfire. And now, Northland is thrilled to announce the arrival of its flashy brother, the Smeltinator® Underspin!Like the Smeltinator, the Smeltinator Underspin features an ultra-sharp, ultra-strong Gamakatsu hook and beautifully sculpted baitfish head and plastics-securing hook collar. But what makes the Smeltinator Underspin totally unique is its compact, nickel plated willow blade for added flash and vibration to mimic small baitfish. The lightweight blade spins instantly on contact with the water and continues flickering with minimal jigging action. Aiding and abetting the blade’s ability to spin at super slow speeds is an exceptional SPRO ball-bearing swivel. The Smeltinator Underspin is especially effective on pressured bass and in cold water conditions when bass won’t always commit to traditional lures. Moreover, the Smeltinator Underspin is a big-time player for anglers utilizing forward-facing sonar on suspended bass. The blade adds more body and action for the sonar to detect. The Smeltinator Underspin is deadly on suspended smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and spotted bass. Simply pair it with a 2.5- to 7-inch soft plastic jerkbait or swimbait and let the wondrous pairing go to work. Southern and western bassers can put it to task right now on deep water reservoirs, especially off steep breaking rock structure, over deep flooded timber, or anywhere wintertime bass are schooling offshore. The technique is elementary, too, letting the Smeltinator Underspin just do its thing. Pitch it out, let the bait fall to the fish, and start a slow and steady retrieve.  
Smeltinator Underspin (Lake Winnipeg)
Smeltinator MagicThe Smeltinator Jig took the spotlight on Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson’s 2023 Bassmaster Classic victory, but it wasn’t the first time 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.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.
OPENING NIGHT
SILVER
SMELT
RALPHS SMOKE
PINK WHITE
With six colors, three sizes (¼-, 3/8-, and ½-ounce), and three hook sizes (2/0, 3/0 and 4/0) of the Smeltinator Underspin to choose from, bass anglers are sure to find the right jig for whatever situation they face. Jigs come one per card for $7.99 (MSRP).



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