Help I'm Retiring

[Mike L]

I made up a Cosmic Clock and Bass Behavior chart way back in 1971 that defines my belief in seasonal periods. You can search this site "Cosmic Clock" and read that information if interested.

I remember that! Still have it somewhere..

There was an in depth "discussion" about it a while back where some folks thought it was of some help, a few didn't.

I used to use it and thought it was right on.

Gotta find that thing.

Mike

[herbu]

Ghostshad,

I was in your position a couple years ago.  First year spent researching and buying a boat and all new fishing gear.  Did a lot of reading for the gear, and pulled on some experience from my youth.  First hit the lake very early last spring.  Have gone 2-3 times a week for the last 9 months or so, almost always at the same lake.  Here's what I've learned...

1. The fish bite a lot better now than they did 9 months ago.

2. I use very little of the equipment I started with a year ago... including rods, reels and baits.  The rods and reels were mid-range, (Quantum Smoke).  I liked them and they worked well.  But I kept hearing about "the best" rods and reels.  There is always a debate, but the discussion always has the same very few candidates.  The rest are touted as, "just as good as X, but cost less".  As in most ventures, I finally decided if I didn't try "the best", I would always wonder if something was better than what I was using, and would eventually spend even more $ trying to find out.  I just got 2 of "the best" reels, and am awaiting delivery of 2 of "the best" rods to put them on.  At least then I'll know.

3. Fish like cover and structure... rocks, fallen trees, stumps, weeds.  Cold weather, hot weather, rising pressure, falling pressure, rain... doesn't change the fact.

4. I have hundreds/thousands of $ in lures I almost never use.  Almost always go to my favorites... soft plastics, (swim baits, crawdads and worms).  When you see or read about some bait you think has to be God's gift to fisherman, get 1 or 2 of them to try.  You don't need to get one of every color and size.  You may like the new bait, you may not.  Wait until after you decide you like it before stocking up.

5. Take your time.  Watch the lake and critters on/around the lake more than you watch other fishermen.  9 months ago we'd come in at the end of the day and chat with guys at the landing also coming back.  They caught a bunch and we caught a few.  Now it's not unusual that we caught a bunch while the other guys caught 1 or 2.  Of course you never know who's lying.  But just because somebody has a $70k bass boat doesn't mean he knows what he's doing.  Better to be patient and learn from you own experience.  You have time now.  A quiet day on the lake is its own reward.  And whether you catch 1 or 10, you can almost always learn something.

[Scott F]

On November 27, 2015 at 0:03 AM, thomas15 said:

Speaking for myself, I have little trouble making friends. But I have to admit that I'm a bit intimidated at the thought of joining a club. I have fished a few tournaments and have enjoyed myself though.

Clubs don't always mean tournaments. In my area, there are several multi-species clubs where the members just get together and go fishing. Very little competition, a lot of socializing. Nothing speeds up the learning curve like fishing with experienced anglers. Guides are a great idea, if you can afford them.

[scbassin]

When I retired I went fishing 5 days a week weather permitting. Prior to that I read a lot & took notes. I also purchased good electronics & learned how to use them, after a couple of years I was considered an above average fisherman. You will learn a lot by watching what is going on around you, the weather,which way the wind is blowing, water temp, This comes with time on the water. 

[Insanity]

Happy retirement!  I'm still a ways away from that day myself. But  when it gets here no one will be able to pry my butt out of the boat seat.

Heres a must read article for ya. ( With Pitures !  )  

https://www.fishnmap.com/structured/Structure-Fishing-Guide.pdf