Fishing New Water

Fishing New Water

If you love the sport of fishing, at one time or another you are going to venture out to a body of water you are not familiar with. You maybe going on vacation or pre-fishing for an up coming tournament event. It doesn't matter what species of fish you are targeting. It could be Bass, Trout, Muskie, Pike, Walleye, Cats, Pan fish or others. If you have a basic understanding of the fish, then you are going to be fine. The habit's of the fish do not very that much from one body of water to the next. The same tackle you are presently using will be just fine. Before you venture to a new body of water, I suggest that you purchase a topographical map of the new location. Spend some time reviewing it. It is just as important for you to spend time in your living room, as it is on the water. The more time you spend in preparation reviewing the new water, the more success you well have. After you review the map and see the layout of the new water, you need to mark some areas on the map you feel will be promising. Once you show up at the new location, have your map in hand, and talk to the tackle store and boat rental personnel, ask for their advice. They are more than happy to help you out. Ask how the fishing has been? Ask them about the species you are after, and where to go? Review the areas you have marked on your map and see if you have chosen some of the same areas. Find out what type of bait has been working the best for the fish you are after. If you don't have a lot of time to spend at the new water, you may want to hire a guide that specializes in your species.

You have done all your homework. You have asked the locals what is working and where. Once on the water, it is all up to you. For example, if you are after Bass, you have taken the advise of the locals, you need to ask your self, is it a top water bite? Are


the fish deep instead of shallow? Are the fish in the brush, or are they in the rocks? Are the fish eating the crank bait or plastics? Are they holding on the points or on the deep ledges? If we knew every time where they where and what they are eating, we would all be millionaires. The more understanding you have of the fish, the more success you are going to have. So do your homework.

Don't be afraid to venture out to the new water. Some days you are going to very well and other days not so good, but that's fishing. The main thing is that you have a good time doing what you love, fishing. If you can catch a few, then that is even better. Do your homework and head out. Remember to only take what you need and release the rest. We all need to practice conservation. We need to make sure there are plenty of fish out there for our kids.


Tight Lines and God Bless
Larry Elshere