Hanna Robbins and Jennifer Combs with a cooler full of crappie from Lake Sam Rayburn

The Outdoor Gear We Recommend

We may have a little bit of a hoarding problem. Good gear need not be expensive, but it has to improve the experience in some way. Whether it’s the right rod, a certain bait, or the world’s best rainsuit, we’ll give unfiltered opinions on what we use and why we use it.


No tackle shop on earth provides more specialized gear for bass than Tackle Warehouse. If you want it, they've got it in stock — whether it's a proven winner or the newest items on the market — and their service is exceptional.

Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

Two Underappreciated Lipless Crankbaits

The Rat-L-Trap and Red Eye Shad are proven winners in the lipless crankbait genre, but they’re not the only game in town. I have dozens and dozens more, including some that have produced big catches around the country.

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Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

Japan’s Hottest New Soft Plastic Bass Lure

Japan’s latest and hottest new bass craze may have a scatalogical name, but it’s super effective. If you think the Senko is the greatest bait ever — and there’s a strong argument for that — see if this stubbier, heavier version gives it a run for its money.

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Gear Pete Robbins Gear Pete Robbins

Deps Cover Scat Alternative Colors

We’ve messed around with the Deps Cover Scat a fair amount. Most of our efforts have involved basic colors including black (with and without flake), various shades of green pumpkin and watermelon. If you’re looking to differentiate yourself from the crowd, consider checking out one of the following lesser-known options.

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Pete Robbins Pete Robbins

The Unlikely Story of the Tubo Rig

If Hanna and I were to go back to Japan today, I’d likely need a steamer trunk (and a bank loan) to bring home everything I’d buy, but on our last trip in 2007 I had less disposable income. Check out my oddest and most expensive purchase from that trip.

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