Sport

The Crappie (Pomoxis) is believed to be native to the eastern United States and Canada. Due to wide transplantation, populations of Crappie exist in all of the 48 contiguous states today, making them a very popular North American game fish. American Expedition is proud to present information, interesting facts, and photos of the Crappie.

The name crappie can refer to either the white crappie, which is lighter in color with vertical black stripes, or the black crappie, which is and darker with a pattern of black spots. Both species are similar in size, shape, and habits. The average crappie weighs between 1/2 and 1 pound and measures 5-12 inches, though they are capable of growing much larger. Crappie are very social fish and form schools to live in.

When to Find Crappie

Fortunately for us freshwater enthusiasts, you can find freshwater fish any time of the year. Unlike their saltwater cousins, these fish are trapped in the lakes and rivers, and you simply have to know where to find them during each season, which we describe below. In general however, “crappie season” is essentially the winter season when the fish come close to shore, making them easy to find and catch on any type of gear.

Where to Catch Crappie

During the winter season, crappie come close to shore to spawn. Similar to all of the other sunfish, they spawn in the shallows and make beds – shallow depressions in the sand – where they lay the eggs. This is where most of the crappie are caught during this season, right near the vegetation, in 3-to-5 feet of water. Throughout all other seasons, crappie will be offshore, which makes finding them a lot more difficult. The best way to find them during this time is by using several rods to test the depth profiles, as the fish may be anywhere. Usually, they will be somewhat near structures offshore.

The Different Types of Rod Choices for Catching Crappie

You don’t need fancy or expensive gear to catch crappie. Since crappie aren’t the largest or toughest fighting fish you’ll encounter, just about any fishing rod setup will work.  You’ll want to avoid fly fishing rods and stick to Carbon Fiber or bamboo, and usually keep the weight on the lighter side.  Here’s an overview of the rods best suited for crappie fishing.

Telescopic Crappie Poles:  If you like the idea of the classic cane pole, but want the advantage of modern materials, a graphite or fiberglass telescopic crappie pole may be just what you need.

For many crappie fishing techniques, very long rods are required to fish effectively. The idea is that the further you get your bait or lure away from the boat, the better your chances are of hooking a fish before scaring the entire school away. Modern crappie poles come in lengths from 8 feet all the way up to 20 feet. Telescopic crappie poles, like the B’n’M Black Widow, collapse to a relatively small size, making them easy to transport and store when not in use.

Telescopic crappie poles are a good option if you plan on doing a lot of bank fishing, especially in heavy brush. They can also be used effectively from a boat for spider rigging, which we’ll cover later. One of the main advantages of a long crappie pole is that they often have a very sensitive tip that helps you detect the most subtle crappie bites.

The PLUSINNO Spinning rod and Reel Combo is a great choice for beginning crappie fishermen just starting out.  If you already have a reel you can save a few bucks and check out the Shimano FXS 2 Piece Spinning Rod. This is also a great choice if you are looking for an ultralight option that comes in a variety of different lengths.

Ultralight Spinning Rods:  Of all the rod types for crappie fishing, you’ll have the most options in terms of selection and configuration when you go with an ultralight spinning rod.

Ultralight spinning rods for crappie come in a wide range of lengths from less than 5 feet to over 16 feet. The length of the rod should be determined based on the fishing tactics and methods you plan on using.

Shorter rods in the 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 foot range are best suited for vertical jigging from a boat. Vertical jigging is usually done with the aid of a fish finder, with the fish you see on the screen located within a small circumference under and around your boat. Using a shorter rod allows you to keep your lure where the fish are without question.

Mid-length rods in the 6 to 7 1/2 foot range are perfect for cast and retrieve fishing with jigs and other lures. The longer rod length helps you make longer, more accurate casts.  This is helpful when you want to skip your bait under a dock or an overhanging tree.

Longer spinning rods in the 10 to 16-foot range are the go-to choice for trolling baits and lures when spider rigging. The long length keeps the bait and lures away from the boat and propellers, and helps you cover a broader sweep of water when trolling. Long rods can also pull double duty for fishing slip-float rigs and dipping jigs into places with tight cover.

Most crappie anglers prefer rods with highly sensitive, soft action tips and sturdy butt sections. The soft tip helps you detect the delicate bites crappie are known for, and the sturdy butt section gives you adequate power if you need to horse a crappie out of heavy cover.

Some crappie anglers prefer rods with faster action tips, especially when vertically jigging in deep water. The faster (stiffer) tip helps you impart action to your jig when it’s down 20 feet or more.

Tips

TIP 1: Here’s a litle trick you can use when crappie get “lock-jaw”.

You’ll need 2 fishing rods. Rig one of the rods with a jig (or a minnow) under a bobber. The other rod need to be rigged with a large crankbait (or a spinner).

STEP 1: cast out your bobber rig.

STEP 2: cast the lure setup beyond the bobber.

STEP 3: reel it as quickly as you can, towards the bobber rig.

STEP 4: repeat step 2 and 3 above.

You’ll find you get a lot of strikes on the bobber setup because crappie think another fish is coming for the bait. This stimulates a natural instinct to attack the bait first. A survival mechanism.

TIP #2: Another trick, for when you’re night fishing…

Throw a few extra minnows in a glass jar and seal it with the lid. (Makre sure to poke some holes in the lid first.)

Next, tie a rope to the jar and drop it a 1-2 feet below the surface.

Make you’re using a light on board, and even shine it into the water, in the area of the jar.

Finally, drop your bait down by the jar. Crappie will be attracted to the small “school” of minnows in the jar, and will attack your bait in the process.

TIP #3: If you’re desperate, and nothing else is working, use a double jig rig. Put a chartruese jig on the top, and a yellow or white jig underneath.

Put these under a slip bobber, and give ’em a twitch periodically.

You’ll get your fair share of “double hook-ups” with this setup.

Tip #4: Give fly fishing a shot… yes. For crappie.

Use any streamer fly pattern… but the best are the small Clouser minnows, and Crappie candy.

Saltwater spinning reels were once primarily the domain of small- and medium-game fishing, but recent innovations in metallurgy and design have made them a player in big-game fishing as well. Advances in drag systems, gearing and line capacities mean your spinner can win encounters with wahoo, amberjack, grouper, sailfish and other big game while still shining during the surf fishing and jigging they’re best known for.

Spinning reels are designed for ease of use and also practicality. With the ability to hold plenty of line, get a good casting distance and also to have a quick retrieve ratio for high speed spinning. Not only are they great for casting and retrieving lures but they can also be used for trolling, bottom fishing and also surf fishing. With a massive range of sizes to choose from there is sure to be one that will suit your fishing style and budget.

Our spinning reels are made from quality metals such as aluminum, stainless steel and brass, with precision-machined single-piece frames. Choose from low speed reels for bass and redfish, high speed reels for game fish, and even two speed reels to rapidly recover slack line if a big fish makes a quick turn. Spinning reels can be found for using monofilament line, braided line or both, with varying length and test strength capacities. As a longtime family-operated business, we have the personal fishing tackle knowledge to help you select the saltwater spinning reel right for your unique needs and budget.

The Best-Selling Fishing Reels on the Market – Spinning reels are the best-selling category because they are simple to use and give you remarkable diversity – it’s not complicated.

Superior Quality at Affordable Prices – Affordability is another reason why you need to get a spinning reel. Here at the Fishing Tackle Shop, we stock a massive range of sizes and brands of spin fishing reels at astonishing prices.

A World-Class Selection of Fishing Reels – We take great pride in the range of spinning reel models we stock at Fishing Tackle Shop. The list of brands we offer is a who’s who of the finest producers of fishing gear in the world.

Meet the Producers – Shimano spinning reels are among the most highly regarded on the market, not to mention the excellent Daiwa spinning reels. We also stock Penn spinning reels as well as models from Fin-Nor, Okuma, Pflueger, Quantum, Rovex and Van Staal which ties up most of the major fishing brands. You’ll only find the best fishing reels here at FishingTackleShop.com.au.

Making the Right Choice is Easy -In-depth descriptions and specifications are available for all of our fishing products. With so many spinning reels available on the market, we want to help guide you toward the most suitable choice of spinning reel for you to make fishing a breeze.

Browse our wide selection of top brand name spinning reel seats including Fuji, Pacific Bay, American Tackle, Mud Hole for all your custom rod building projects. Whether you are looking for a comfortable aero grip, throwing live bait, or looking to hurl huge weights past the surf, we are confident we have a reel seat for your specific fishing application.

How to Cast a Spinning Reel

Beginners new to the art of attempting to catch fish will likely have their first experience with a standard spinning reel and rod. It’s an ideal set-up to go after the type of fish typically found in freshwater lakes and rivers, and it offers a lot of versatility when considering what types of tackle you’d like to put at the end of your line. But even if you do your homework to get the right bait or lure on your line, it won’t do you any good if you can’t cast it properly. Learn the fundamentals of properly casting a spinning reel and you’ll find that migrating to other styles of fishing, like fly fishing, is far easier.

Spinnerbaits attract and catch bass in a more unique style than any other bass lure. At first glance they don’t appear like they would be an effective lure because theres really nothing natural looking about them. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Spinnerbaits have been catching bass for decades using blades that flash and leverage the sensitivity of a basses lateral line through vibration.

They’re one of the most popular lures used in bass fishing, from weekend anglers to tournament fishermen. One reason for their popularity is how versatile these lures are. A single spinnerbait can effectively cover just about any area in a body of water. They’re semi-weedless too so they can be fished in and around cover in deep or shallow water.

Using Spinnerbait

Spinnerbait fishing lures have metal blades that spin like a propeller when the lure is in motion, creating varying degrees of flash and vibration in the water. Spinnerbaits are used principally for catching predatory fish such as perch, pike and bass, and are particularly helpful in attracting fish as you begin your day out on the lake.

Selecting a Spinnerbait

The two most important factors you need to consider first when selecting a spinnerbait is the speed and depth you’re looking to fish it. The speed of retrieval is heavily based on the style and number of blades you choose. Naturally the heavier the weighted head is the faster it is going to sink down in the water column, but the blade style and/or combination of blades on the bait is going to play a major role in the running depth as well.

Size

Spinnerbaits are available in a range of sizes from micro to maxi models. The largest ones, from 1 to 2 ounces, are used for northern pike and muskie fishing, and sport two large blades, a big skirt, and often a large soft-plastic trailer on the hook. One-quarter- to ⅝-ounce models are typical for bass, pickerel, ​and small pike, in varying blade and skirt-trailer combinations.

The lightest spinnerbaits, in 1/16- to 3/16-ounce sizes, are used with light or thin-diameter line and light spinning tackle, primarily for bluegills and crappie, but also for smaller specimens of largemouth and smallmouth bass, plus white bass.

Small spinnerbaits usually feature a single blade on the overhead shaft and a soft grub-shaped body rather than a multi-tentacled skirt. For the most part, these are fished in shallow areas and near the surface.

Weight

In large part, the weight of a spinnerbait is determined by the size of the head on the lower shaft.

This is essentially a lead jig head and is usually forward-tapered to facilitate passage through the water and around obstructions. On small spinnerbaits, that head may be rounded, like a ball-head jig, but for most bass models, it is shaped more like a cone or bullet. Some heads may be turned up slightly to resist diving and enhance upward or shallow movement, especially on a fast retrieve.

Blade Styles and Function

Spinnerbaits principally feature Colorado, Indiana, and willowleaf design blades, or hybrid versions of these basic styles. The Colorado is between round and pear shaped and is generally believed to produce the most vibration, although this is a function of how much it is cupped. The more cupping there is to the blade, the greater the vibration. The common size is No. 4, which is roughly the size of a quarter, but the range is from No. 2 to the magnum No. 8. Colorado blades are often found on single-blade spinnerbaits. They are good for slow retrieves, murky water, and dark conditions. A small Colorado may precede a larger willowleaf blade on a tandem spinnerbait.

Indiana blades are teardrop-shaped and produce good vibration, too, though they spin faster, and work well on tandem-blade lures.

They, too, are used in combination with other blade types, either in front of a willowleaf or behind a Colorado. Willowleaf blades are shaped as the name implies and come to a sharply tapered tail point. These long blades are mainly used on a tandem rig with a big No. 4 or 5 willowleaf, usually in silver or copper, behind a smaller Indiana blade; however, willowleaf blades can be used in tandem, or as a single, and are preferred in the magnum sizes (up to No. 8) for big fish. The willowleaf doesn’t offer as much vibration as other blade styles, but it revolves freely and produces a lot of flash. It is an attention getter, especially when hammered or fluted or spiced with light-bouncing colors.

The style or combination of blades to use may be a reflection of where and how you fish. Tandem-blade spinnerbaits are generally meant for speedy retrieval.

A twin willowleaf combination is the best for quick retrieving, and a willowleaf-Colorado combination is for more intermediate retrieval. To get a slow retrieve, especially in shallow water, you need a blade that grabs a lot of water and spins well. This might be a Colorado combination, or more likely a single Colorado blade, perhaps of large size.

Although some anglers use tandem blades for deep fishing, this lure’s effectiveness there is primarily when being retrieved rather than when falling, because the blades usually get tangled on the drop and don’t rotate. Try spinnerbaits that produce more vibration when the water is turbid or when it is cold, and spinnerbaits that produce more flash when the water is clear or when it is warm.

The Ultimate Spinnerbait

Built using Freedom’s revolutionary hybrid head design, the Freedom Live Action Spinnerbait grabs fishes’ attention with a lethal combination of free-swinging action and vivid flash. For maximum movement, the hook on the Freedom Live Action Spinnerbait is attached using their advanced interchangeable hook design which gives trailers a natural swimming presentation.

In addition, this hook release system allows for quick and easy replacement, so anglers can pre-rig a variety of trailers and switch them out without ever having to retie. Also, the revolutionary design keeps fish from using the lure as leverage to spit the hook, resulting in more landed fish.

From end-to-end, the Freedom Live Action Spinnerbait features premium components, including a super bright Willow/Colorado blade combo, top-of-the-line swivel, and a spring lock trailer keeper. Finished with a hardened epoxy finish for long-lasting durability, the Freedom Live Action Spinnerbait delivers a bright, highly attractive presentation that will help trigger strikes from otherwise uninspired fish.

Wading is where fishing gets serious! Today’s breathable chest waders offer comfort and the best performance for the modern fly fisher. Most prefer the stocking foot style with separate lightweight wading boots, but we also sell many boot foot waders.

Sometimes you need fishing waders just so you can cast your fly to a fish, which makes waders an indispensable tool for fly fishing, especially for fly fishing beginners who don’t cast well yet. Some rivers are lined with brushy banks and the only way to cast is to wade out into the river. Some lakes have shallow bottoms and you need to wade out to get where the fish are. Some streams are just more fun when you scramble around in them or even just cross over to the far bank where fewer people go. Fly fishing waders make you more effective and can make fishing more fun, plain and simple.

Protection

Wade into the quiet of the stream in a pair of high-quality, durable fishing waders. Adjustable suspenders help ensure a snug fit to help keep you dry while out in the water. Choose between stocking-foot waders that can fit into wading boots or waders with boots built-in for maximum security against cold water & terrain. Whatever style you prefer, you can find an excellent pair of fly-fishing waders or chest waders in this selection. Look through our entire selection of waders and accessories for other options and items that can help you get the most out of your fishing trip.

Storage

Keep your fishing gear safe and away from the water until it’s needed with the storage pockets found on these fishing waders. Many of these fishing waders are made with chest pockets to keep fishing essentials easily accessible. Some are even waterproof and can be removed for easy filling or passing off to a fellow fisherman or fisherwoman. With a good accessory pocket on a pair of waders, you can have the equipment you need just a zipper-pull or button-click away. See what’s available in this diverse selection and find the right fishing apparel for your next outing.

A pair of quality waders can help you take on the great outdoors.

Anglers, bird hunters and outdoor adventurers of all types can trek through watery terrain in quality chest waders, hip waders and waist waders. The latest waders are crafted of quality material to provide lightweight warmth and complete water protection, while never hindering your movement in the field.

Anglers can find chest waders, with built-in boots that provide total traction on slick rocks beneath the water’s surface. Easily carry lures, tackle and more with you in a chest wader built with a lightweight but stable fold-out table.

For less coverage, turn to waist waders or hip waders that are built with an articulated leg for total mobility. Safely stash away gear in a fishing vest designed with convenient pockets and ample ventilation to keep you cool and dry as you fish.

Grip rocks in the water and slippery terrain with ease in fishing wading shoes built with durable full-grain uppers and reinforced stitching. Expect quality from top brands like Pro Line®, Field & Stream®, Korkers®, Patagonia® and many more.

Waders should provide warmth and weather protection, but still be lightweight enough to enable you to move without restriction. To combat water seepage, look for waders with fully stitched or taped seams.

You can choose between chest waders that come with built-in boots or with stocking-feet bottoms that are paired with your favorite fishing or hunting boots.

Your wading boots should be amphibious—traction-ready for walking in streams but comfortable for trekking distances on land. Choose wader boots designed with cleated outsoles or deep lugs. Lightweight cushioning in the midsole of your shoe provides extra comfort for long days in the great outdoors. A reinforced toe box in your wader shoes gives you the protection you need.

Pockets and compartments give you a spot to stash small essentials. Look for features such as detachable bottoms that convert into short fly vests. Ensure that pockets and compartments are secure for holding extra hooks, lines and lures. Choose a vest with ventilation panels for maximizing airflow and a lightweight construction, so you move easily on the water.

Find new and replacement fishing reels for all types of rods and fishing trips here. All of our equipment has been designed and manufactured by top brands to ensure that you have the very best fishing reels for the job wherever you choose to fish. If you’re looking to find something lighter than your current reel or with the capacity for a longer line then you’re in the right place. We’ve got a choice of fishing reels for anglers of all abilities and levels of experience, with budget-friendly and high quality options available to buy today. Browse the collection in our online store now to find the perfect reel for you to help you land a whopper!

There are countless categories of fishermen in this world, all with their own intensity and skill level. Whether young or old, amateur or pro, freshwater or saltwater, or casual or serious, every angler has one thing in common: using a reel to cast bait out on a line.

There are many different reel styles that cater to different fishing practices. This article will review the best fishing reels available for ice fishing, fly fishing, salt and freshwater fishing, and more.

Bring in Your Catch: Learn More about Fishing Reels

Make the most of your day by the water. Shop fishing reels and bring home your next trophy catch.

From freshwater fishing to a day on an iced-over pond, finding the right fishing reel is critical for your outing. Select from a variety of different constructions, materials and features for the reel that matches you. Explore the collection:

• Freshwater Reels
• Saltwater Reels
• Fly Fishing Reels
• Ice Fishing Reels

Shop top-rated brands like Shimano, PENN or Shakespeare.

Line capacity: Is vital for selecting a reel. Reels can handle as little as 15 yards to as much as 900 yards. The amount of fishing line you’ll need depends on your fishing. For example, fishing in a pond or stream will require only minimal line capacity. If you plan on fishing in a lake, you may need more line capacity to handle the water’s depth and the type of fish that may run with your line.

Gear ratio

With a fishing reel, turning the handle on the reel engages gears that turn a shaft on the spool. The faster the handle is turned, the faster the spool rotates. Lower ratios provide more power for bringing fish from deeper depths, while higher gear ratios benefit when pulling fish from closer to the surface.

Ball bearings

Ball bearings are used to help reels work more smoothly by supporting the moving parts; the more ball bearings, the smoother the reel works, especially under pressure.

Shop fishing reels or waders for your next day on the water. Learn more about how to buy a fishing reel from PRO TIPS.

What type of environment will you be fishing in? Whether you’re after a scrappy trout or largemouth bass, finding the right reel improves your chances of making that catch.

Baitcasting and conventional reels work with the weight of a bait or lure as it pulls on a line, and turns the spool to release more line. These are typically preferred by more experienced anglers, especially when using heavier lures and lines designed for bigger fish—like a salmon or steelhead.

Most baitcasting reels now incorporate a drag system designed to adjust the resistance or drag on the spool to control how much resistance is needed to pull the right amount of line off the spool.

Many fishermen prefer baitcasting for fighting bigger, stronger fish over an extended period, especially big game fish in saltwater. Baitcasting reels are offered in one-piece designs, which lessen the corrosive effects of saltwater.

Spinning reels mount on the underside of a spinning rod. The spool on a spinning reel is parallel to the rod and does not rotate when you cast, reducing the chances of tangles to almost zero. Beginners and less experienced fishermen appreciate the lack of complexity that spinning reels offer.

Spincasting reels are well-suited for beginners fishing in freshwater environments. These devices feature a closed-face, button-operated reel, which sits on top of a casting rod. Spincasting reels feature a line that comes off the top of the spool when casting. The spool remains stationary until you use a thumb button to cast. When you release the button, your bait or lure propel your line.

Freshwater & Saltwater Fishing Reels

We carry a wide variety of fishing reels to choose from, including reels for Spinning, Baitcasting (Low-Profile & Round), Fly, Lever & Star Drag, and Line Counter reels. Whether you are fly fishing for Brookies, running spoons deep for Lake Trout, or chunking for Sharks, we have a fishing reel that will perfectly match any freshwater or saltwater fishing application.

In determining a fishing rod and reel one must consider the species you are fishing for along with the type of fishing lure or live bait to be used. For instance your rod and reel set-up should match the fishing presentation. If you’re pursuing panfish using light lures or small minnows your outfit should be lightweight for casting and detecting bites, not a heavy baitcaster for pike or bass.

There are five main basic categories of fishing rod and reel combinations, and within each there are multiple sub-categories of specialty types of outfits used for specific fishing applications, for example Walleye fisherman use rod and reel set-ups for slip bobber, slip sinker, jigging and trolling. Bass fisherman carry pitchin’, flippin’, crank baiting, and soft plastics combo’s.

Muskie anglers have bucktail, jerk bait and top water outfits. In short, fishing rods and reels have come a long way over time, with new space age materials having been developed for rod construction making them longer and much lighter as well as reels with multiple ball bearings and one piece alloy and graphite frames.

Keep in mind rod materials when making your selection. The construction of your rod impacts its action and should be designed for your skill level:

Fiberglass Rods: This brand of rod is geared towards beginners. These rods need little maintenance, have an average weight and solid rod strength. Keep in mind, if you are fishing larger game, you’ll need a heavy, durable rod.

Graphite Rods: These are typically preferred by advanced anglers due to their superior strength and lightness. Graphite provides a blend of optimal sensitivity and fighting power.

Bamboo Rods: This material produces a smooth, fluid backcast and offers excellent flex and feel.

Shop top fishing poles & fishing rods from St. Croix, PENN, Shakespeare and more.

You should consider your level of fishing experience, game fish and environment when choosing your new fishing rod. Learn more about the different models at DICK’S Sporting Goods:

Casting/Conventional Rods: Designed to have the reel and guides on the top, casting rods are most effective for anglers looking to cast several hundred times during a fishing trip.

Generally match up best with baitcasting reels.

Most casting rods can handle heavy line and fish in dense cover and water vegetation.

Spinning Rods: Ranging in length from 5 to 8 feet, this model positions the reel and guides on the bottom of the pole to provide smooth, accurate casts.

Longer spinning rods with elongated grip handles for two-handed casting are frequently used for saltwater or steelhead and salmon fishing.

Spinning rods are also widely used for trolling and still fishing with live bait.

The handle length is balanced against the rod’s length.

Saltwater Casting/Conventional Rods: The reel and line are located on top of the rod, and the trigger grip lets you securely clutch the rod while releasing the thumb bar.

Designed with a quick taper at the rod tip for accuracy and a large backbone at the lower portion of the rod for stability.

Saltwater bait-casting rods can be made from fiberglass or graphite.

Fiberglass is more durable and has greater lifting power than graphite, which makes it a preference for larger fish such as tuna and yellowtail.

Graphite rods are more bait sensitive and work well for surf fishing and open water, where bait may be cast over a greater distance.

Power and action are two essential functions of your new fishing rod:

Power: A rod’s resistance to flexing is known as its power. This ranges from ultra-light to ultra-heavy or other similar classifications. If you’re after larger game fish, you may need a rod with more power.

Action: This impacts your casting distance and accuracy. The smaller the fish, the lighter the action that you’ll need, while the heavier the fish, the heavier the action.

Fishing Rods Construction And Features

Fishing poles have only become more specialized over time. There are many different fishing rods to choose from, made from different kinds of materials, such as fiberglass, graphite, carbon and various composites. In order to select the best possible fishing rod and reel system for the type of angling you plan to do, you’ll need to do a bit of research. For instance, pay attention to how much flex and action you’ll require. Most anglers opt for moderate fishing rods, which will bend starting at the halfway point, but you should choose a fast rod if it’s important for you to be able to feel any light bite or nibble on the line. A fishing pole’s backbone depends on its construction and thickness, as the rod’s strength makes a difference in the fish you attempt to catch and the lines you’ll need to purchase. Whatever you need, we’ve got you covered at Academy.com.

Different Fishing Poles For Different Types Of Angling

Our assortment includes standard casting rods and others specially made for baitcasting. A spinning rod is perfect for those fishing with lighter weights, looking to snag perch, crappies and walleyes. Fly fishing can be an intensive endeavor, so finding the proper fly rod is important. Make sure you have a fishing pole that will allow you to false cast, haul cast, curve cast, tuck cast and roll cast with precision every time. With fishing poles made by top brands like Abu Garcia, Shakespeare, All Star Rods and H2O Express, we’re sure to have one that meets your needs, whether that means angling the afternoon away on a pier with a boat and surf rod or relaxing on a boat fishing for bluegill with a panfish rod. Explore Academy.com for all of the essential fishing gear to meet your demands.

Find the perfect fishing net for your next angling adventure. With a variety of shapes, styles and materials to choose from, these landing nets meet all of your angling needs. Different styles of fishing require different types of landing nets. These styles range from long-handled boat nets to compact wade-fishing nets. Our line of landing nets offer nets with wooden or composite handles as well as deep rubber baskets to land your next trophy. Also be sure to keep your landing net secure with our line of net retractors and magnetic holders. These net accessories are a must-have for anglers on the move. So whether you are fishing from a boat or stalking trout on a small stream, our selection of landing nets has you covered.

People who fish for trout to eat or who do catch-and-release trout fishing will always be on the lookout for a good trout net. These can be made of many materials, such as wood, aluminum, or rubber. The nets themselves are made out of rubber, nylon mesh, or other materials.

Getting the trout into the net can be a tricky bit of work. You want to be comfortable with the net you have, and able to maneuver it while holding the fish on your line. You need to use the tip of your rod to angle the fish so that it will fit into the net, but do this gently so as not to break the tip of your rod. Then you pull the fish gently, head first into the net, and at the same time, flick up the rim of the net to land the fish at the bottom of the net.

Clearly, having the right net for you is going to be important, so we have reviewed a few of the better nets available for trout fishers.

A Guide to Choosing Which Fly Fishing Net

A premier quality net is without a shadow of a doubt one of the most important pieces of tackle that you can own. Not only is a net the only safe way you can transport your fish from the water to the bank, but owning a good quality net is a vital aspect of fish care. This is why all the fly fishing nets we stock have been designed by tackle companies who really understand both the needs of the angler and the needs of the fish. We stock nets in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can pick the perfect net for your needs. Many of our nets are manufactured to complement the shape of the fish, thus providing the most support for the fish as you lift it out of the water. They type of handle you have on a net is also important, and we stock nets with a shorter handle that are designed to fit compactly inside a boat, as well as nets with telescopic handles that you can extend to you ideal length. Angling Direct has always said that fishing isn’t only our business, it’s our passion too, which is why you’ll only ever find products that we’re proud to use in our own angling on our shelves.

Which net for trout?

There are several types of net in common use for landing trout. These include:-

Collapsible nets where the frame folds in on itself. These can be clipped to your back or waist to allow you to walk around without leaving the net on the ground. They can also be carried in a scabbard to stop brambles catching on the netting. The net will normally click into ‘action stations’ mode with a flick of the wrist.

Fixed frame and handle nets – these are most commonly used by boats fishers who leave the net ready to go in the bottom of the boat.

Scoop nets are popular with anglers that wade rivers and are normally attached to a retractor with a magnetic release that keeps the net in place high on the anglers back away from vegetation. These are usually not suited to large fish but fine for river trout and grayling. These are often built around a wooden frame and are both and practical.

You also need to think about how long the handle needs to be – if you fish from high banks a net with a long or telescopic handle is the answer.

Which net for salmon?

The choice for salmon is not so wide and anglers will generally go for a gye fishing net. This is a net with a fixed frame that slides on a handle shaft. Generally these have a sling that is fixed to the net allowing the net to be carried on your back. Please be careful if you are deep wading on a fast flowing river. A net fixed to your back could cause a fatal accident if it catches on a rock underwater or interferes with the deployment of a lifejacket.

The net needs to be big enough to accommodate your catch – my preference is for the Mclean Salmon Weigh nets that make it easy to weigh a fish with the minimum of handling prior to its return. They are also great for big pike.

Rubber Landing Nets: Better for Fish and Fishing

If you are a hook and cook’em person, it doesn’t much matter to the fish what type of landing net you use. But if you are a catch and release angler, you need a rubber net.

Another reason you should use a rubber net is to save time. Many of us fish with more than one hook as droppers or as tags. After a fish is netted, the second hook almost always gets tangled in the net. It takes time to untangle the mess, which means it takes longer to release the fish and it takes longer for you to start fishing again. This is a big problem with string and nylon net bags, but is not a big problem with a rubber net. If there is one thing I have learned from spending time with my fishing buddy/coach, the professionals spend less time messing around with gear and more time fishing.

Sure the rubber nets cost a little more, but they are better for the fish because they are easier on the skin and fish are released faster and you can get back after the next fish faster. And unless you have a habit of losing or breaking nets, a rubber net will last for many years.

Fishing provides an excellent opportunity for us to go out on the water and get in touch with nature, breathing in the invigorating fresh air and listening to the rustle of the wind and the chirps of the birds. Make a backpack ready and go for fishing.

Fishing also gives us the chance to relax after a long week and evaluate how we are doing, and if you are super lucky you can get to haul in a catch while you are at it.

It can take long hours of dedication to finally land that prize trophy fish, and during that time, the sun can start to cause painful burning on your face and neck. Pick up a MAGELLAN OUTDOORS gaiter that provides SPF 50 protection from the sun while also adding a stylish camo accent to your look, and check out neck gaiters made of sweat-wicking materials that can move moisture away from your skin to keep you feeling comfortable and cool as you reel in the big one. If you’re looking for an eye-catching addition to your fishing apparel, a Columbia Sportswear gaiter with a head-turning pattern can give you something to talk about between bites. Be sure to pick up SPF-rated fishing shirts for even more protection against harsh midday UV rays.

The Best Fishing Hats For Sale

Fishing hats are another way to stay protect against extended exposure to the sun. An Under Armour ball cap helps shield your eyes against glare from the water while providing a sporty appearance that looks great just about anywhere you go, or if you’re headed to the links after a few hours of fishing, try wearing a Costa Del Mar visor that fits in as well at the golf course as it does at the lake. A bucket hat can give a relaxed, casual look as you fish or take care of backyard chores.

Head Protection from the Sun

Be the talk of the pond by wearing one of our snazzy fishing hats and other fishing apparel from Academy Sports + Outdoors. Don’t let the sun blind your view while you’re trying to hunt down that fabled catch of the season. Our hats are made from a variety of materials, like cotton, polyester and mesh, providing you with ample protection from harsh sunlight over UPF 50. Our array of fishing hat options are designed to be breathable, preventing sweat buildup on your head and face.

Find Your Fisherman Cap

Let us help you find a fishing hat that best suits your angling trip and personal style. Academy Sports + Outdoors offers the best fishing gear, and multiple types of hats, like fly fishing hats, bucket hats, trucker hats, sailing hats and even neck gaiters. We can help you decide on a hat that offers the amount of protection you need as well as a comfortable fit on your head. Our trucker hats and fly fishing hats are lightweight and promote airflow, while our sail hats and bucket hats give you greater shade from the sun. Complement your new fishing hat with a quality fishing shirt or pair of fishing pants to ensure your whole body is protected from the elements.

Things To Consider Before Buying

In market different types of best fishing hat models are available for any gender and any age. You need to select the right fishing cap that will fit your head perfectly well. This can be achieved by measuring the size of your head so that you can get a fishing hat that corresponds with your head size measurements. A good fishing hat should be comfortable, convenient and durable.

Fishing Hats For Every Angler

Protect yourself from the sun with fishing hats. Choose from an impressive array of mesh hats, fishing visors, trucker hats, bucket hats and other popular styles for your outing.

You’ll find fishing hats in an assortment of bright colors, understated neutral tones and camo patterns from leading brands like Costa Del Mar®, Field & Stream®, Flying Fisherman®, Salt Life®, and Under Armour®.

Whether you’re looking for a wide-brimmed hat for maximum sun protection or a warm knit stocking cap to keep you warm on ice-fishing trips, you’ll find today’s best fishing hats.

Whether you’re buying a hat for yourself or looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member, you’ll find fishing hats in a rainbow of colors with graphic logos, amusing phrases and other designs to suit any personal taste.

We offers many different fishing hat styles including boonie hats, trucker hats and visors. Boonie hats provide a traditional fisherman look and great protection from the sun, while trucker fishing hats are stylish and available from tons of top brands.

A quality fishing hat can help you stay cool in hot weather and help you brave the elements on colder days. If you’re shopping for a new fishing hat, keep the following considerations in mind:

If you want to maximize your protection from harmful UV rays while you’re on the water, consider a cachalot hat with an attached a neck shade, which can shield your neck and upper back as well as your face. Check out collection of sun protective clothing which includes UV-protective hats.

Fishing visors are a popular choice with people who want to keep sun out of their eyes without the full head coverage that a standard hat provides.

Remember to consider function & style when buying a fishing hat.

It’s your day by the water. Make the most of your next catch with the gear experienced anglers trust.

Discover fishing rods engineered for both remarkable strength and lightweight feel. At the pond or lake, fresh water fishers find performance in any condition with a variety of spincasting, baitcasting, or trolling rods, reels and combos. Fly anglers love fly fishing rods designed for absolute precision and a delicate cast that fools any fish.

Whether you’re after large-mouth bass or trout. Pick from hard baits and lures, flies, saltwater lures and more. Stow away tackle, lures, hooks and fishing line in tackle boxes and bags that simplify organization by the water.

Maximize utility with long and short-sleeved tactical shirts, fishing vests and lightweight jackets. Wade in with bibs and waders that provide the right blend of warmth and flexibility. Pull on boots that give you absolute traction on slippery rocks beneath the water’s surface.

When you can’t make it to the water, try a fishing T-shirt that lets you wear your love of the sport on your sleeve. Shop fishing gear and apparel for men, women and kids.

From crabbing and clamming to bowfishing gear and ice fishing equipment, find the tools it takes to get the job done. Pick up nets, knives, racks and more. Hit the water with kayaks, canoes and boating accessories. Expect quality you can’t beat from brands like St. Croix®, Field & Stream®, Columbia® and more.

From beginner’s fishing rods that are ideal for children and beginners who are just getting into the sport, to strong and powerful professional rods capable of helping experienced anglers land the biggest catches. If it’s fishing clothing you are looking for, then we have a great range which includes fishing jackets from Prologic and Ron Thompson, to fishing hats, gloves, fishing socks and camouflage clothing.

Our match rods and poles from the likes of Shakespeare and Leeda offer great value for money, while our floats, hooks and incredible variety of baits will ensure you stand the best possible chance of a successful day out. Buy all of your fishing equipment with confidence.

Like most fishers, I’m not able to carry, store, or afford a different rod and reel for every species of fish or method of fishing. So I picked an affordable, high-quality spinning-rod-and-reel combo that can work in as many fishing conditions and settings as possible—including saltwater and freshwater. This spinning-rod-and-reel setup is approachable enough for a novice to learn on, yet it performs well enough for a seasoned veteran to depend on.

In researching and testing, I prioritized attributes such as durability and build quality—features that anyone, regardless of skill level and intended use, can appreciate—over more specialized features such as multiple-geared reels for using live bait or especially stiff rods that can handle big fish but not smaller ones. In other words, the Ugly Stik GX2 and Daiwa BG SW combo is what I’d recommend if someone were to ask me, “What fishing pole should I get if I don’t know what I want?”

How to Pack Reels

Since reels don’t have any dangerous parts, you shouldn’t have problems with reels from a security standpoint. If space permits, take your reels with you in your carry-on pack to prevent potential loss or damage. Pack them in their original case, padded with a few socks or pairs of underwear, or buy a travel reel-case for additional protection. Trolling reels will rarely fit into your carry-on luggage, so be sure to pad them well in your check-in bag.

Update – please be aware of the fact that some airlines may require line to be removed from reels before taking them on the plane as hand luggage. In order to avoid this situation, consider packing line separate in hold baggage.

Other equipment

Use common sense when packing: knives, liquid fly floatant and metal rod holders are definitely a no-no. Be sure to check these in. If you’re carrying lots of weird equipment, show up at the airport an hour earlier than you normally would, to allow for extra time if they make you check-in anything. Above all, don’t argue with the security staff. Be pleasant and tell a few fishing stories. They DO have the power to ban you from a flight. Another thing I often forget to do in the midst of pre-trip euphoria is to check my fly vest’s pockets for any leftover equipment.

Since 9-11, it’s been almost impossible to take dinghies and kayaks with you, checked in or not. If you are staying at a 4+ star resort during your holiday, you will most likely have kayaks or pedal-boats available freely or at a reasonable hourly rate.

There’s many variables in fishing bait and often no absolutes. Many things you’ll encounter when fishing for will leave you with more questions that answers and leave you spending more time trying to learn more.

Carp Fishing Bait

Over the years I’ve used most of the baits you can find in a tackle shop, and more besides. I have spent many hours mixing up many noxious-smelling products in my kitchen, many hours boiling up different types of particles and seeds, and many hours mixing obscure flavours in an attempt to find the ultimate carp bait.

Some of these baits have been highly successful, others have failed miserably. In fact, some of the baits I’ve made over the years have been more successful at actually repelling carp than attracting them!

Vitalin

Vitalin is a dog food made from maize meal, meat and bone meal (among other things).

I’ve put it in at No7 because I’ve caught many fish over the years using it, especially during the winter months. My most successful winter campaign ever was based around Vitalin.

HEMP

All the hype you see and read about this seed is true. Carp absolutely love hemp. In fact, they think it tastes fantastic. Even a very small handful of the stuff can keep fish digging in the lake bed, looking for food, for hours and hours. I’ve actually stopped carp in their tracks by throwing individual grains of hemp in front of them.

Fluoro Pop-Ups

The fact I’ve put fluoro pop-ups at No5 might surprise some people. However, I love these little beauties!

Fluorescent pop-ups definitely seem to attract carp. Used on their own or as part of a more complicated trap, I have caught many carp in the last three years on fluoro hook baits.

Regular Boilies

Boilies catch the vast majority of carp across England every year. There are hundreds of excellent boilie types available to buy from tackle shops and bait companies across the country.

Out of all the boilies on the market, my advice would be to choose a fishmeal-based bait in the spring, summer and autumn. Also, frozen readymades tend to be better because they’re of a higher quality than the shelf life baits you can find in shops, so I’d recommend them over anything else.

Pellets

Pellets have been around for a very long time. In fact, Dick Walker used to mash trout pellets up and use them as a paste in the 1950s, I think! If he’d dropped them in a PVA bag and whacked them into Redmire, he’d have caned the place – there would have been wet, hessian sacks hanging from every tree!

Tiger Nuts

Tiger nuts are brilliant baits. They give off a great smell and the fish love eating them.

I once did an experiment with some tanked carp and some tigers. I placed a handful of the nuts in an old sock, so the carp couldn’t see them, and suspended the sock in the surface of the water. The carp couldn’t see what was in the sock, neither could they get hold of the bait.

Bass Fishing Bait

Selecting and collecting bass lures is almost as enjoyable as fishing them. But which lures catch the most bass? We broke down the top 5 best bass lures based on their proven ability to catch bass, their versatility, and the opinions of many professional bass fishermen.

Plastic Worms

Undoubtedly, number one is the rubber worm. No other bass lure is as versatile or more attractive to bass than a soft plastic worm. This is because they are so lifelike, and when engulfed by bass they feel like natural food. There are endless designs and dimensions, so you can choose the best size, style, and color for the conditions you’re fishing.

Spinnerbaits

Spinnerbaits come in at number two because of their unique ability to attract bass while covering a lot of water at the same time. The fact that they are fairly weedless gives them a bump in the ranks as well.

Crankbaits

Crankbaits come in various sizes, shapes, weights, and running depths. The correct selection of specifications depends mainly on the depth of water you’re fishing. More so than with other bass lures, making the right crankbait choice plays an important role in determining fishing success.

Jigs

While bass jigs are highly effective all year round, being successful with them requires a higher skill level compared to most other lures. Jigs are not the easiest bait to fish but they produce too many trophy-sized bass to not be in the top five. In fact, jigs are very well known for being the best lure for catching big bass.

Topwater Lures

In bass fishing, little can compare to the enjoyment an angler gets when seeing a bass leap out of the water in an attempt to engulf their bait. Topwater lures are not only effective but extremely fun to use, which are two reasons they make the top five.

These lures are designed to ripple the water’s surface, causing popping and splashing sounds as the lure is retrieved. The purpose is to create the appearance of prey in distress in other words–, an easy meal.

The Only 6 Baits You Need to Catch (Almost) Any Fish

Although you may covet a tackle box stuffed with lures, these essential baits will fool (almost) every fish that swims. Clear out your tackle box and cast these super six baits.

Heddon Zara Spook

Although it’s a very small part of the design of this lure, the line-tie is very important. Positioned beneath the nose, a twitch on slack line makes it dart to the side, which has proved irresistible to any fish that will eat bait on the surface, from large and smallmouth bass to tarpon.

Acme Little Cleo

The cup of a spoon dictates its action to a large degree. A shallow-cupped spoon will have a slight wobble, while a deep one will wobble like crazy and have an erratic action.

Curly Tail Grub

Although it looks a little dull in hand, once that tail is pulled through the water, it comes to life, seeming to propel the lure forward. Size: To target panfish, use the tiny 1-inch version with a 1/32-ounce jighead. When jigging for cobia, opt for an 8-inch grub with an 8-ounce head.

Rapala Original Floating Minnow

The action of the Floating Minnow is created by how its lip is positioned in relation to the body of the lure. The bait is designed to imitate injured baitfish, and the lip is responsible for creating this action. Size: When fishing for small species, opt for the 1 ½-inch, 1/16-ounce bait, the most diminutive of the series. When hunting for big fish, throw the 7-inch, 1 1/16-ounce model.

Spro Hair Jig

There are a lot of hair options to choose from. Marabou, rabbit, and squirrel are all popular. Deer hair, however, is perhaps the most durable and widely available.

Mister Twister Sassy Shad

This bait is precisely the dimensions of threadfin shad…and menhaden. Match the hatch, baby. Fish-fooling Feature: The boot-shaped tail section of this lure is where the magic happens. The narrow piece of plastic that leads to the bulky, wide tail creates a very lifelike swimming action.