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.
Bass Lures I Took to the Gulf of Chiriquí
I wanted to see if bass lures could handle the power of Panama’s tuna and roosterfish. I had only limited room in my luggage for extra tackle, so check out the video to understand my thought process and to see what I toted south
Stock up on Mexican Bass Staples at Tackle Warehouse This Weekend
Tackle Warehouse is running a sale this Memorial Day weekend that includes many of the product that we recommend you always bring to Lake El Salto or Lake Picachos. There are plenty of other good deals on offer, but these are some of our proven winners and right now the price is right.
Seven Bluegill-Colored Spinnerbaits
Most of us tend to use a limited range of spinnerbait color and blade options. I was reminded not to be so narrow-minded recently when I interviewed Elite Series pro Bryant Smith for B.A.S.S. Times – he informed me that a bluegill-colored spinnerbait can be deadly.
Five New Products I’m Taking to Panama
Taking the right equipment on a fishing trip can make all the difference between a smooth excursion and one where you may not return. I test products in order to offer expert and HONEST guidance about their quality. My goal is to help you enhance your overall trip.
Fishy Father’s Day Gifts That’ll Make Every Dad Happy
If your father introduced you to fishing, then you owe him a special debt of gratitude. If somehow you found the sport on your own, then why not bring him into the fold? Seriously, dad put up with all of your crap over the years, so demonstrate that you’re thankful by going over and above with a fishing-related gift.
Fishing Clothing and Gear that Earned Return Trips to Panama
Yesterday, I detailed some new items that will be headed to Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge for the first time. Today, I’m going to list a few that have already been there and earned their right to return.
New Products for My Panama Testing Ground
As we embark on our fourth trip to Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge, I’ve learned that while there are plenty of creature comforts, inferior gear gets left behind. I’ve saved some luggage room for some new items. After all, it’s the perfect testing ground for future fishing trips around the world.
John Crews: Top May and June Baits for Tidal Rivers
Elite Series pro John Crews has developed an expertise on tidal fisheries. His two Elite Series wins came on the California Delta and the St. Johns River, 2,700 miles apart but bound by the fact that their fish respond to moving water. He’s also earned high Bassmaster finishes on Winyah Bay, the Delaware River and the Potomac River.
St. Croix’s New Physyx Rods for 2024
We’ve used tons of St. Croix models both at home and at Anglers Inn’s properties in Mexico, and we’re always excited to see what they’ll come up with next. Ryan Teach showed us the new Physyx lineup at the Bassmaster Classic in Tulsa.
When Do You Throw a Black Crankbait?
Clark Reehm put in a lot of time on Arkansas waters during his formative fishing years. While he was there, he learned one of the region’s worst concealed killer lures.
Amphibia Sunglasses: Options and Advantages
With so many high-quality polarized sunglasses on the market, why should you choose Amphibia? And which of their models are right for your needs and your head? We caught up with James Niggemeyer at the 2024 Bassmaster Classic to get some more info.
A Mid-1990s Tightwad’s Guide to Spending More on Tackle
My first spending priority after graduating was to get a bass boat of my own, but when it came to tackle I was still pretty careful. Eventually some pricey options came along that I simply could not resist. Check out the entry points to my now-high-spending tackle addiction.
What Keith Combs Throws at Sam Rayburn in May
Keith Combs built his dream house just a short distance from Lake Sam Rayburn because he wanted to have easy access to what he considers consistently the best big bass tournament lake in the country. Here are five lures he’s likely to have on the deck when May rolls around.
Daiwa’s Best Baitcasting Reel Ever?!?! Check out the Steez SV
You can easily get by with a $99 or $199 baitcasting reel but if you want to know what it’s like to buy the most refined baitcaster Daiwa has ever produced, you need to check out Daiwa’s Steez SV. It’s 5.6 ounces of buttery, rocket-fueled smoothness and power.
Prepare a Fishing Bug Out Bag
If you regularly travel to the same places to fish, prepare a “go bag” that’s filled with the tackle you need, all in one place. Check out the one I’ve packed for El Salto and Picachos.
Special Gifts for Mom on Her Fishing Travels
OK, if you’re reading this now and haven’t bought your Mother’s Day gift, don’t despair – it’s not too late. There are plenty of readily-available options, especially if she likes to fish and travel.
Deps 2024 Bassmaster Classic Special Runs and Restockings
Whenever we have a question not just about JDM gear, but about forthcoming trends and tactics, Matt Paino is our go-to source of info. His booth at the Bassmaster Classic was brimming with gear that’ll catch pressured bass on any continent.
Premium Paint: Jen Kravassi at the 2024 Bassmaster Classic
Jen Kravassi continues to bring the heat every time she picks up the paint brush, whether it’s on the newest creation from Mike Bucca’s Bull Shad Swimbaits, or one of her own Jekyll Bait Company products.
Jockey Outdoors – Far More than Underwear
Jockey Outdoors stepped up for bass anglers in a big way by sponsoring the 2024 Bassmaster Classic. I’ve been wearing the clothing I got there ever since we got back. Here’s a quick video explaining the company’s vision.
Clutch Colors from Conventional to Koi
The 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo is particularly memorable for me because it marked the “mainstreaming” of swimbait culture. The Clutch Swimbait Company was mobbed all three days, but I weaseled my way in to get some info out of Josh Pladies and Justin Kimmel.