Four Casts for Shallow Cover Angler

If you are a budding shallow water cover angler, there are several types of casts that, once mastered, will help you present your baits more effectively and catch more bass.

Take a moment and watch as bass pro Andy Montgomery gives an on the water demo showing each of these casts and how to perfect them...

Setting Up a Fishing Combo for a Child

Setting up a fishing rig for a small child is a great way to introduce them to the joys of fishing. 

Here are some simple steps to get them set up for lots of fishing fun:

1. Choose a suitable fishing rod and reel: Look for a rod and reel combo that is designed for children. The rod should be lightweight, light power and easy for the child to handle, and the reel should match the rod be simple to use.
2. Select the right fishing line: For a child's fishing rig, a monofilament line in the 4-6 lb test range should work well. A lighter line will be easier for the child to cast and will give them a better chance of catching fish.
3. Add a bobber: A bobber is a small float that sits on the surface of the water and indicates when a fish is biting. Choose a bobber that is small enough for the child to handle but large enough to be visible in the water.
4. Tie on a hook: Use a small hook, such as a size 8 to 4 depending on fish you're targeting, and tie it onto the end of the fishing line using a simple knot such as the Palomar or Berkley knot.
5. Add bait: Choose a bait that is easy for the child to handle, such as worms, grubs or small minnows. Thread the bait onto the hook, making sure it is securely attached.
6. Cast the line: Show the child how to cast the line by holding the rod and reel correctly, and then gently casting the line out into the water. Make sure they are not casting near other people or obstacles.

Using the Carolina Rig for Prespawn Bass

Carolina rig (a.k.a. the ball and chain) is a popular technique for catching bass, especially during the pre-spawn period. The ideal structure and water depths for using a Carolina rig during pre-spawn bass fishing can vary depending on the specific conditions of the waterbody. 

Setting up a Carolina rig for pre-spawn bass

• Use a medium heavy power, moderate-fast action rod and matching reel spooled with 12-20 pound test main line.
• Use a sinker that is heavy enough to keep the bait on the bottom but light as possible for conditions being fished.
• Tie on a 3-4 feet leader of 10-12 pound test line and tie on a 2/0 to 4/0 worm hook.
• Rig a soft plastic bait, such as a worm, lizard, tubes, brush hogs, or crawfish.

When fishing a Carolina rig, simply cast your rig out across the structure being targeted and allow it to sink to the bottom. Next, drag your rig slowly across the bottom, using a sweeping motion with your rod. Be sure to keep your line tight to feel for any bumps or build-up of weight indicating potential bites then set the hook.

Thoughts on structure, depth and bottom composition for prespawn bass

Keep the Bass Looking Up

Anytime you're fishing for pods of bass relating to deeper structure or cover, it's often important to present your lure in a manner that imitates their natural forage.

Unless the bass are actively feeding on a school of baitfish, they are usually positioned beneath the forage and will rise to the bait to feed. Therefore, if you keep your lure above the bass holding on deep cover, your success at triggering strikes usually increases significantly.

Take a few minutes and watch this short video from from the folks at Yum Baits where bass pro Jason Christie explains how and why he "keeps the bait over their heads" when fishing for bass holding in deeper water...

Fishing Poppers for Spring Bass

Fishing for spring bass with poppers is a popular technique among anglers. Poppers imitate the action of a struggling baitfish on the water's surface, attracting bass to strike.

How to Fish Poppers for Spring Bass

When it comes to fishing poppers for spring bass, there are a few tips that you can keep in mind to increase your chances of success:

Choose the right gear: Depending on the size of the popper, they can be fished on either spinning or casting gear. You’ll want to use a 6.5-7.25-ft medium or medium-heavy power, fast action rod and matching reel with 10-17-lb monofilament line that can handle the weight of your popper.

Look for active fish: Bass tend to be more active in the spring, so look for areas where they may be feeding on baitfish near the surface.

Use a slow retrieve: To make your popper look like a natural meal, use a slow and steady retrieve. Start with short, gentle pulls, and increase the speed as needed.

Vary your presentation: If you’re not getting bites, try changing up your presentation. This could mean using a different retrieve cadence, or trying a different popper color/size.

Watch for strikes: When a bass hits your popper, you’ll see a splash or hear a “pop” sound. Be prepared to set the hook after feeling the weight of the bass on your line.

Popular Popper Brands/Models

There are many different brands and models of poppers on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Rebel, Storm, and Rapala. Some of the most popular models include the Rebel Pop-R, the Storm Arashi Cover Pop, and the Rapala Skitter Pop.

Take a moment and watch as Rapala/Storm pro Seth Feider discusses his preferences for springtime popper fishing and how one particular popping bait is a pretty good walking topwater as well...