Weedless Spoons - Your Bank-Friendly Lure

So you're fishing local water hole, and can't figure out why you can't catch fish? Not very uncommon. In fact, a lot of anglers have this trouble when fishing from the shore. But why? What is it that makes bank-fishing so hard?

I don't suppose it has anything to do with the fact that your fishing in the ONE spot your 1,600 acre lake has to offer, does it?

Every fishing guide on the planet 'Go Where The Fish Are'. And if you don't have a boat, that doesn't mean that you can't catch anything. Just means you can't make it to the deep parts in the center of the lake.... which in some cases, don't have any fish anyways. Try getting in as many spots as possible 'around' the lake. Even if that means plowing through some tall brush, and dodging trees. Chances are, you'll increase your catch rate, with just a couple of bumps and bruises, which are definitely worth it. Here's a few things you'll need when shore fishing for bass, pike, or other larger fish....

1) Fishing Rod (well, duh). But not just any rod. Remember, we're trying to cover as much ground as possible. Use a medium action rod. This will give you the sensitivity you need, yet have enough boost in the 'snap' to toss your lures a good distance. Try to cover as much water area as possible from left-to-right, or right-to-left.

2) Did I mention lures? Not just any old lure. If a guy wanted, they could use poppers and other top water baits (caution - could snag on debris you can't see up close). But sometimes you're going to need to get the thing down deep, depending on the depth of the water in front of you. I'd recommend taking along a couple of weedless spoons. On the cast, most times this lure will land on it's back side, down in the water. Bait for scent, and slowly retrieve. Use 1/4 oz or 1/8oz so that it catches a little water when bringing it in. It'll add a little action. The weed-guard will help make sure you don't get caught up on under-water debris that you're bound to have.

3) Pliers. It's already in your regular tackle box for obvious reasons. But since you might not want to bring that bulky tackle carrier, you'd better take this all-important tool. In fact, a multi-purpose tool will assist you with those situations that we can't think of.

4) Bug and tick spray. Yeah... it's infested. Either bring this stuff along, or hose yourself down before you go. Last time I was in the brush, I think I stumbled on a tick nest (do these things have nests?) On the way home I literally picked off more than 15 ticks from all around myself. Protect yourself with good quality repellent.

5) Pack light - You're going through some serious over-growth. Pants or vest with several pockets to carry your lures and other mandatory gear, like line, hooks (if you're using anything other than weedless spoons), bobbers if you plan on sitting in one spot for an extended time, and anything else you think you might need. Snacks?

With all that said, I'm sure there's something I'm missing. Guess I'll figure that one out as soon as I hit the local hole again. ;)