Lessons Learned the Hard Way
Every angler who has fished a bass tournament surely remembers that first morning. You were nervous and anxious about the unknown that lay just around the bend uncertain of the outcome but convinced that you were living in the moment. Then, of course, there are the mistakes that were made that first time the things that can only be appreciated in hindsight.
Terry Butcher: Spinnerbait Bass on Braided Line
Bassmaster Elite Series has seen the resurgence of the braided line.
Beaten From The Back Of The Boat
It can be a true test of character when a day of fishing turns into a day of watching as the angler you are sharing a boat with sets the hook time and again while you remain fishless. At some point, all bass anglers experience this frustration. How you deal with it can be the difference between a depressing day on the water and a successful trip for both anglers.
Following Your Instincts
Every human is born with survival instincts that are heightened and developed over time. For the professional bass angler, it's no different. While the bass pro's fishing instincts may not spell the difference between life and death, it can spell the difference between cashing a check and going home empty handed at the conclusion of a tournament.
Martens: Modifying Lures
Somewhere in the bowels of his Alabama home, Elite Series pro Aaron Martens has a crankbait graveyard with an inventory greater than the average tackle shop.
Control the Variables
Whether you're a once-a-week bass angler or a full-time touring pro, there never seems to be enough time on the water to get everything done. The end of the day comes and you wish you had time for just a few more casts. But wishing doesn't make the clock move slower.
Monroe: Hook Selection
For many anglers, hook selection is an afterthought. Many times anglers don't consider the hook's wire size, or if it's an extra-wide gap or straight-shank hook, as long as it fits into the body of the bait, it's good to go.