vatech

I've only fished two tournaments thus far as a co-angler but I've learned a lot that I wish someone had shared with me before I started. In no particular order, here are some of my tips: -TALK TALK TALK to your boater pairing before the tournament. Get a feel for how your boater is going to be fishing, the type of structure he's targeting, the speed they'll be fishing, their general game plan, etc. This will help you decide what to tie on THE NIGHT BEFORE. My first tournament, I did not even think of talking to my boater beforehand about what he had planned, figuring I would tie stuff on while on the water. Tournaments move to fast to tie all your baits on while you're out there. By the time you get something tied on, it's probable your boater is already ready to move on. -Bring 5-6 rods. You're going to be fishing with a variety of different anglers who all fish with completely different speeds and styles. You want to be ready for anything. I think it's also important to have at least one "all around all purpose" rod incase you completely backlash a technique specific combo and need a quick fix/replacement. -Get a Bac Rac!! This thing is sick for comfortably holding 4 combos for quick changes. It can be really difficult pulling tangling rods out of the normal storage for a co-angler. Be careful with rod tips hanging off the side of the boat! -Cover your tremble hook baits. Not just thinking about protecting the boat here. Not having your gear tangle up saves you valuable time on the water. -This is not a knock against boaters, just a reality of the situation, but boaters are not going to care THAT much about you. Yes, many are EXTREMELY helpful and give great tips and will even manuever the boat for you to get a lure back. However, for the most part, the majority of boaters are in it to win it. Your boater might have a fish on and be screaming at you to grab the net, he's not thinking about you potentially dropping your valuable gear over the boat. Don't get intimidated by the situation. Stay aware of where your boater is moving the boat. If you have loose gear around, they might inadvertently push the boat into tree limbs or other brush that could knock your gear over edge. If you have rod tips hanging off the side of the boat, make sure they're not getting crushed.

So I'm interested in hearing some tips for a Co-Angler to win a tournament. A lot of information out there focusses on proper etiquette when on another person's boat but not many articles focus on strategies for a Co-Angler to WIN. I would love to hear some tips from some experienced co-anglers or even some boaters who can share stories about particularly talented co-anglers and what they did well. If you were to write a bass book on being a successful co-angler, what five chapters would you center your book around?

Can anyone recommend someone that provides these services? I'm looking for someone local to do some upgrades to my reels. Thanks in advance.

Anyone know this lake well? Anyone know any good websites to check to track what's going on there? I'm gonna be fishing there in a couple weeks (launching out of Occoneechee) and want to show up prepared. All help appreciated!

I'm interested in planning some vacations/trips designed specifically for catching marlin, sailfish, and swordfish. To do this, I would like to know where the biggest of each of these species can be caught in the world and what time of year provides the best chances. I'm not looking for a location that contains all three species, just the best individual locations for each. Anyone know a website or forum that has helpful information related to billfish? Furthermore, any recommendations for fishing guides or locations that people might already know of would be fantastic. Thank you.

Second.

Can anyone ID? Thanks

Incredible works of art and engineering.

Most always weigh, just curious most of the time.

Hmm, nice find. On the flip side of the equation though, I've seen people paying premiums (as high as $230) just to get the reel because the availability is so low. Additionally, the reel does not come with a spare spool (which costs another $60). That being said, I have one of these in a 2500 and it was significantly prettier than I expected from online photos. I have yet to try it out thanks to this wonderful winter weather but hopefully I will agree with your assessment of performance per price value!

I use this gem:

The color that appears for me after clicking that link is black/blue. I've used several of the stone jigs in various colors and I usually pair them with a paca craw. Black/blue I use a matching craw or the okeechobee craw... imitating a crawfish obviously.

Stradic CI4 for $175? Where are you finding that deal?!?!?!

I think this dog is stunning! Any help with identification? Thanks! https://store.intermediaoutdoors.com/shop/ItemDetail.aspx?item=1OGD1002&

I will be visiting North Myrtle Beach from 1-25 through 2-5 and I was wondering what type(s) of fishing are available there? Is the area known for any particular type of fishing and what is good right now this time of year? I would love to have a contact that I could call and charter a boat for some offshore fishing. I appreciate any info!

Here's an accounting joke for you nerds, see if you get it. Before his death, Heath Ledger had a son. His name was General.

PMSing to the max.

Me too , he just flamed out too quickly. Better to burn out than fade away.

Or... It could be that, while these players do appear superhuman in ability, when it comes down to it they're still just... human. They get tired, confused, tricked and lose concentration and focus like the rest of us.

You're supposed to down Makers Mark?

Ah I checked more into it and it's definitely a Black Widow II 2500, thanks! Any input on the quality of that reel and how much it used to retail before it was discontinued?

I think it looks a bit more like a Steez than a Black Widow. You positive?

What reel is shown here in this picture? http://evilash510.shutterfly.com/36

VT game was great. I'm sure glad we're hosting Miami though....

classy