No matter what fish you are searching for, it is never a bad idea to cast sev-
eral lines at a time, all with different sinkers and lures. If you have the option
of grabbing half a dozen rods, set them all out accordingly, with a enough
space in between, and anchor down. Simply wait to see what works. Per-
haps that day they’ll prefer the crankbait crawdaddy, or the bright lure with
a glittery tail and a bobber. Other days, they may go for only live bait, possibly
even a piece of bread soaked in pickle juice.
When you have a handful of rods out, and you are testing all these different
combinations, once you find what works, stick with it if you are looking to
bring home a bucket full. Keep in mind that the best bait is going to be what
the fish are used to seeing during this time of year. If you are fishing with
spring frog baits in the fall, you may only get a bite or two, if any. If you are
fishing with bait that matches the season, you are much more likely to snag
a lunker.
Since you know the land, the weather, and now, which bait combo is work-
ing, you can adjust your times accordingly. If you are a morning fisherman,
you will need to know the movements on the water for that day. If you are
more prone to fishing at night, then you will have to adjust your lights ac-
cordingly, and expect that certain species won’t be out. Fishing at night will
mean that you will have a better chance at reeling in a big one if you are
hanging out in deeper waters. This is more true for the northern areas, where
the change in temperature won’t be as dramatic. During the day, you will
definitely want to move toward shallower water. When in doubt, always stay
near vegetation. The greener, the better. This is where small baitfish will be
hiding out and feeding, which in turn, is where your trophy will be headed
to stock up on its food.