Bass are likely the most iconic American gamefish, followed closely by rainbow trout. Bass fishing is a multi-billion-dollar industry from lures and rods to boats and tournament franchises.

Still, most anglers only think about the well-known largemouth bass. But there is plenty to enjoy, both in angling and in eating, when it comes to their less famous smallmouth cousins.

Smallmouth bass, so named because the mouth does not extend past the eyes like it does with largemouth bass, are about half the size, give the same fight, and have twice the flavor of their larger brethren.

Tips To Catch Smallmouth Bass

Fishing for smallmouth bass takes patience and skill. Articles on how to fish for bass often go into detail on casting angles, line-drop timing, and line color to keep from scaring the fish. However, when it comes to catching bass, especially smallmouth bass, it is not as hard as it sounds.

Basically, be quiet.

Smallmouths are a species of sunfish and behave much like them. They are freshwater, fond of streams and lakes, and like areas with stumps and rocky areas where they can hide and ambush prey.

Smallmouths prefer cooler waters and can be found in both still and running water. They are also intolerant of pollution, so a healthy smallmouth population is a good sign of environmental cleanliness.

Smallmouth bass, also known as smallies, will cover a lot of water and do so without hiding. Those targeting smallies should forget the reeds and mud and focus instead on clear water and rocks.

Smallmouth bass will also chase bait and are much more aggressive than largemouth bass, making them a lot of fun to catch. At half the weight, they are also good fish to introduce children to bass fishing.

Jigs and Rigs for Catching Smallies

For smallies, ditch the shoreline and get in a kayak or bass boat. Leave the reeds and head to open water.

Open water means the best lures for smallmouth are going to be crankbaits, vibrating jigs, and spinnerbaits.

Lures like the Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait is a great choice, as is the Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper. Both have great action and will bring the fast-hitting smallies to the surface.

To get a good response, anglers will cast the lure to a likely area and let the ripples settle. Then, give the line a few twitches, reel it in and let the smallies chase it for a strike.

Spin For the Win

Spinners are another go-to for catching smallmouth bass. Small spinners, with an imitation grub on one arm and a spinner on the other, are surefire hits.

Johnson Rattlin’ Beetle Spin is a great choice as it comes in multiple color options and has enough space between the grub and the spinner to make hook retrieval a breeze.

Spinners are best fished just below the surface. Anglers should allow them to sink and then use a slow, crawling reel to bring them towards the surface. A few quick tugs and takes can imitate an injured minnow, something most smallies cannot resist.

Experienced anglers know that smallmouth bass with strike hard and fast, giving the line a thumping hit requiring a quick response.

Cranking Out the Win

Another sure winner is a good crankbait. Small versions of largemouth bass crankbaits are a good choice as are crayfish models. For smallmouth bass, fishers should stick with baits no longer than two inches.

The Bass Pro Shop XTS Micro Light Mini Crankbait is an excellent choice, as is the Storm Original Wiggle Wart, one of the most erratic moving crankbaits available.

Crankbaits are great for float fishing and kayaks. A drifting angler can cast and reel repeatedly, drawing the aggressive smallmouth towards the happy fisherman.

In deeper water, a five-foot depth crank, like the Rapala DT-6, will ricochet off rocks and logs and entice hits.

When a smallmouth does strike in moving water, a fisher should be ready for a fight. Most anglers think of bass as the laidback, slow, bigmouth bass. Smallmouths are feistier and acrobatic.

Smallmouth bass are half the size of their larger cousins, but they will punch well above their weight when it comes to a fight. This makes them a target of many serious gamefish anglers as well as youth fishers.

Storm Original Wiggle Wart Crankbait – Hot Tiger

Must-Have Gear for Smallmouth Bass

While there are many specialized rods and reels for bass, a medium light spinning rod between six and seven feet in length is a versatile rod that can be used in almost all bass environments.

Match the rod with a 2000 series reel spooled with eight-pound monofilament line for a reliable go to combination.

Rods like the Pflueger President Graphite Series or the St. Croix Triumph Spinning Rod are great options. Bass Pro also has a line of mid-priced spinning rods that are made specifically for bass fishing.

Look towards the Shimano Sienna FG or the Daiwa BG 2500 for reliable spinning reels that can handle anything an angler targeting smallmouth bass can throw at them.

For rivers and crystal-clear waterways, an ultralight spinning outfit is a must. The best combinations will be a six-foot ultralight rod with a 1000 series reel. Spool it with four-pound monofilament for a lightweight, responsive rig.

A smart angler will match a Shimano Spirex FG, spooled with Berkley Trilene XL, to a Shakespeare Ugly Stick Elite Spinning Rod for a rig that will perform repeatedly.

Check out the types of bass fish and see which one you want to catch on your next fishing trip!

Smallmouth Big Flavor

Many seasoned bass fishers say that smallmouth is a sweeter, and tastier, fish than the fatter largemouth. Smallmouth bass is a seriously nutritious fish to eat, with concentrated proteins and high levels of fatty acids.

It is a delicate white fish with a clean favor, especially those caught in fast moving streams and rivers.

Smallmouth is often served as a lightly seasoned, pan seared, fillet. However, the light meat lends itself well to any variety of seasoning and cooking styles, including baking, grilling, and a cast iron pan over an open campfire.

Check out bass fishing for beginners if  you’re taking  your child on their first bass fishing trip!

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For serious outdoorsmen, few experiences are more iconic than pan frying freshly caught fish over an open fire. What about cooking your catch?

Be it river trout, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, black sea bass, yellow perch or just plain old perch, the smell of burning wood mixing with the sizzle of fish on cast iron is ubiquitous. You can definitely eat bass fish!

Yet even the most ardent angler may be stymied when asked just how to cook fish over a campfire. What is the best pan for cooking fish outdoors? What seasonings should be use? How to tell if the fish is cooked through?

Step One: Fire

Not all campfires are made for cooking. The best campfires for cooking fish are hot, low-flame fires with lots of coals. This gives an area large enough for a pan or grate, with a stable temperature across the coals that will cook the fish evenly.

The best wood for campfire cooking is hard and dry. While oak might be hard to find, birch is an ideal wood for this as it burns evenly and warmly, even when damp.

Let the fire burn down, continually adding wood, until the campers have a large supply of hot, glowing embers. If using a pan or grate, keep enough wood handy to ensure some good flames.

Caveman Style Cooking

One of the more satisfying, and easiest, ways to cook fish outdoors is known as Caveman Style. Quite simply, take the cleaned fish, cut some slashes along the body, and throw it directly onto the hot coals.

Just make sure the coals are red hot and glowing.

Frying fish directly on coals will cause the charred wood to create a sticky, protective barrier around the fish. This allows the meat to cook through while retaining the tenderness.

Once done, simply peel the charred skin back, add some salt and pepper, and dig in. The best fish for caveman cooking are large enough to easily peel and share.

Large, bony fish like pike are particularly good for this style of cooking as diners can pick around the large bones with ease.

How To Pan Fry Fish

For those seeking a more civilized means of campfire cooking, few things are as ideal as a cast iron pan.

There’s a reason trout, perch, bluegill, bass, crappie, and any number of small fish are referred to as “panfish.” Quite simply, they fit nicely in a standard cast iron pan. Check out the best panfish lures for catching dinner tonight.

While there are many ways to pan fry fish, there are a few consistencies to remember. Cast iron is best used with oil, and while butter will work, vegetable or peanut oils are preferred.

Cooks should ensure their kit includes a spatula or tongs for turning the fish, something with which to wrap the handle of the pan, and if desired a grate or stabilizing legs to prop up the pan.

How to season fish outdoors depends on the camper. Salt and pepper are standards, and some cooks will bring seasoning with them. Other traditional naturalists will use whatever seasonings they can find.

Fennel, rosemary, bay leaves, and mint are common when scavenging for seasoning. For those with bolder palates, blackened fish is a staple.

How to Blacken Fish

Blackening refers to a group of recipes where the fish is dredged through butter and then covered in a thick layer of spices. When placed on a hot cast iron pan, the seasonings brown and blacken as they caramelize.

This not only provides a moist, sweet flavor, but the heavy spices can be used to cover strong flavored fish species such as redfish, snapper, or some trout.

When learning how to fry fish, campers are often taught blackening as an initial skill.

Standard blackening spices include paprika, thyme, cumin, mustard, black pepper, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. The spices should form a thick layer on the fish, so experienced cooks know not to be shy when spicing.

How Long to Fry Fish?

Even experienced anglers can have trouble telling if a pan-seared trout is cooked through, or if that big mouth bass is ready to eat. Most anglers do not carry a meat thermometer with them to test their catch.

Undercooked fish can have salmonella, parasites, and a variety of food-born toxins. On the other hand, overcooked fish is tough, unappetizing, dry, and chewy.

So how long to fry fish is a constant question in the campfire world. Fortunately, the answer is easier than most believe.

Unlike deep frying, when panfrying fish look for the flesh to become flaky and for the skin to peel away. This happens at about 145 degrees Fahrenheit, the sweet spot for fish.

In addition, most raw fish has a translucent appearance. When cooked, that quality disappears and the flesh becomes solid in color, be it light or dark flesh.

A general rule of thumb is to take a fork and stick it in the thickest part of the fish. Twist the fork, and if the flesh pulls away and flakes, the fish is ready to eat.

Best Pans for Cooking Fish

Lodge makes a line of cast iron pans that have stood the test of time. Particularly good for fish are their pre-seasoned pans that are ready to go.

Additionally, Lodge pans come with an easy slip-on silicone grip for moving the pan easily.

Utopia also makes a good pre-seasoned pan that has stood the test of time. Easy to clean and care for, these pans are a staple for campers and anglers alike.

While there are many companies that make modern, non-stick pans, few can match the durability and performance of cast iron. Coated pans must be protected and, if the coating scratches, the pan is useless.

When dealing with fire, it is also best to stick with steel tools. The best tools for campfire cooking need to be strong and durable, which rarely includes plastic or modern silicone tools.

Since cast iron pans are solid, campfire chefs don’t need to worry about scratching a protective coating when using a steel spatula or fork.

Find out where the best fishing vacation spots are in the  USA?

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After a day on the lake, river, or ocean, many anglers are ready to eat the rewards of their day. However, for a lot their fishing skills far outweigh their cooking skills. Learning how to cook fish and clean it is equally important.

This can be especially frustrating when dealing with the often-heard phrase, “I like fish, I just don’t like the fishy taste of fish.” This can leave anglers, or their spouses, wondering just how to cook fish.

How to Clean and Gut a Fish

The first step is to prepare the fish for cooking. Fish should be prepared within 2 hours of being removed from the water. Savvy anglers know to keep their catches in water, on a stringer in the water, or on ice to preserve flavor.

While some fish can be broiled or fried whole, many cannot. In addition, many diners prefer a cleaned and prepped fish rather than a whole one on their plate.

Anatomy of a Fish.

Scaling a Fish

When learning how to scale a fish, anglers are taught to start at the tail and work up. Hold the fish firmly by the tail and, using a dull knife, scrape the scales off.

• Make sure to have an open area, as scales often go flying.
• Keep the blade’s edge turned away from the scales. This is scraping, not cutting.
• Pay extra attention to the fins and collar of the fish.
• A knife works as well, if not better, than most expensive fish scalers.

Scaling a Fish.

How to Gut a Fish

• Slip a knife tip into the vent – the small opening on the underside of the fish.
• Keeping your fingers away from the blade, slice upwards towards the head.
• Slice through the area directly under the gills. This can be a tough area to cut, so smart fishers are ready and have a good hold of the fish.
• While a fillet knife works best for this, any sharp knife will do when gutting a fish.
• When prepping a fish for cooking, use fingers to reach into the cut, directly below the head, and scoop the guts out.
• On some fish, the liver and swim bladder are attached to the backbone and need to be cut out.
• Remove the head just below the gills. If keeping the head, remove the gills as these are bitter and can destroy the flavor of the fish.

Gutting a Fish.

How to Make Batter for Fish

One of the more traditional, and favorite, ways to prepare fish is fried in batter. English-style fish and chips are known throughout the world for good reason.

Brought to England by Sephardic Jews in the 1600s, this style of fish preparation was meant to be delicious while allowing the fish to be preserved and portable.

Traditional English fish and chips batter is made from a combination of beer, white flour, baking soda and salt, and deep fried at 428 degrees Fahrenheit. There are many recipes out there, but the most common uses flour, lager or stout, baking soda, and salt and pepper.

The fish should be cut into fillets, although smaller fish can be fried whole. The fillets are then coated in flour and dipped in the batter. The fish is then deep fried for about 4 minutes, until golden brown.

Fish Battered and Fried.

How to Cook Fish in an Air Fryer

As air fryers become a more popular, healthier way of cooking, there has also been a rise in air fryer fish recipes.

Like beer battering, this style of fish calls for fillets that are breaded and seasoned before frying. However, due to how an air fryer handles fish, the fillets should be dipped in eggs first.

This allows the breading to cling better to the fish and creates a lighter coating.

Additionally, since air fryers don’t use oils, fish can be cooked in an air fryer without batter. Simply season to taste, add some salt and pepper, and prepare to eat.

How to Cook Fish – Air Frying Salmon.

How to Bake Fish

When baking fish, the first decision is often whether to bake the fish whole or in filets. The best seafood chefs know that baking a fish whole makes the flesh more tender, juicier, and locks in flavor.

This is also one of the easiest ways to cook fish.

Skip the filet knife and instead stuff the empty gut cavity with garlic, lemon, and dill. Then cut angled slashed along the side of the fish. This will not only increase the flavor but ensure the fish cooks through uniformly.

Sprinkle the slashes with salt, butter, and olive oil. A daring chef can go as far as melting some butter with salt and pepper and using it to baste the baking fish.

The fish should cook until it is 135 degrees Fahrenheit. However, a simple rule of thumb is that to tell if the fish is done cooking, the flesh should flake away from the fish easily.

Serve this with a side of melted butter. Learn more about the best types of fish to eat.

This is a particularly good way of cooking white fishes for those who are not fans of stronger, “fishy,” fish, as the softer flesh will absorb the flavor of whatever spices are being used. These are all the best techniques on how to cook fish, no matter what type of fish is caught.

Baked Fish.

Remove That Fishy Smell

Whenever the topic of cooking fish comes up there is always the age-old question: how to get rid of the fishy smell.

First, and most important, fresh fish rarely smells. If a store-bought fish smells it is a sign the fish is going bad and probably shouldn’t be eaten. However, once cooking, even fresh fish can sometimes leave an odor.

One of the best ways to avoid this is to presoak the fish in either milk or lemon water. This neutralizes the odors before the cooking can start.

Another good method is to use contained cooking methods, like foil-wrapped fish, as this will contain the odor.

If it is too late, and the smell is already out, a standard way of removing the smell is to boil water with a little bit of vinegar. This will neutralize the smell.

Some people will even add rose petals or lavender to the water to make a pleasant, natural, air purifier.

Remove Fish Smell in Lemon Water.

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When a situation requires tackle modification, losing time locating that right lure, hook, sinker or swivel means a missed opportunity. Whether it’s bass lures, saltwater lures, or you’re going with live bait, anglers need to change tackle like a well-tuned pit crew. That means organized tackle trays.

Many a trophy fish has been lost because an angler arrived without the right organization tools and know how. So here’s some pro tips on how to tackle that tackle box and take the game to a higher level.

Simply put, having a neatly arranged tackle box makes fishing more efficient. Organization pays off in more fish.

Rapala tackle boxes utility box

Unify Through Division

The first part of organization is knowing what to take and what to leave behind. Larger Plano boxes, like the Two Level Satchel, Magnum 3500 or the 3700, are great for storing at home and out of season lures.

These can be organized into top water to weighted lures and then further broken down by type. For example, topwater prop baits, topwater chuggers, deep-diving crankbaits, medium-diving crankbaits and square bill crankbaits.

Then, a smaller box to hold snaps, rings, drop shot, and more. This allows the savvy angler to only take what’s needed for that time of year on a trip.

Soft plastic lures should be kept in original packages and stored in plastic tubs. This keeps them in good working order and can allow the smart angler to separate them into swimbaits, plastic tubes, creatures, beavers, plastic worms, plastic lizards, and plastic craws.

Group similar baits together and place them in a big Ziploc. Throw the Ziplocs into a large tub and label the tubs – Flipping Bait, Craws, Frogs, etc. This makes it easy to find a very specific bag of any soft plastic bait, grab what’s needed for the day, and go.

Soft Plastic Bait

At the end of a fishing trip, just unpack in reverse, and order additional packs of baits once a bag is close to empty.

When heading to the boat, multi-drawer boxes allow fishers to compartmentalize tackle to fit the day’s situations. Boxes like the Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box, or the Leathercraft Wild River Tackle Backpack, means everything is ready to use and easy to find.

Organize these boxes the in the same way long-term storage and home boxes are organized to ensure ease of use. Nothing loses a fish faster than fumbling through several boxes to find that perfect lure.

Getting Hooked

On the boat or on the shore, the hook trays are bound to get the most use. Everything from live bait to dead bait hooks, trout to tarpon, having the right hook means being able to set it when hit.

For rigging trolling baits like mullet or mackerel, try trays filled with O’Shaughnessy style hooks in various strengths and sizes. Add a few specialty trolling style hooks. And everything needed is ready and available.

Live bait hooks in various strengths from 1/0 through 16/0, should be categorized in circle hook trays. Make sure the smaller, and lighter, wire hooks are confined to one tray.

Heavier wire and large circle hooks go in a separate tray for catching the big boys like tuna or shark.

The Only Thing Salty Should be The Mariner

Saltwater tackle boxes take on a life all their own. These boxes have to be tough, durable, and able to withstand the corrosive sea air and spray. In addition, they have to accommodate varying sizes of lures and hooks.

Larger versions come with attached wheels that allow the angler to simply roll them from place to place, like overhead luggage. Some are even equipped with rod holders and tops that double as seats.

However, they all have to be able to keep gear safe, dry, and clean. Nothing destroys gear quicker than salt water. Not even an eager 10-year-old.

Some boxes will claim to be waterproof and have separate, no drip compartments for each lure. However even the best of these, like the KastKing Large Saltwater Resistant Fishing Bag, can leak. Always plan on cleaning to be safe.

Make sure every lure, jig, hook, and swivel is rinsed in fresh water before it gets returned to the box. All used lures, hooks, jigs and such should be kept in a bucket or sink until it’s time to wash down the boat.

Rapala Utility Tackle Box

If it is a busy day out on the water and there’s no fresh water rinse available, make sure everything is hosed off well before being stored, and be prepared to wash everything, not just the used lures, just to be safe.

If returned without rinsing, expect rust and corrosion to spread throughout that tray like wildfire. More importantly, even unused gear will be affected by the salt on unclean tackle.

Ideally, all used gear will get a rinse, soap, another rinse, and then be hung until thoroughly dry. That means it can take a day or more before they are ready to return to the box.

Don’t Forget the Specialties

Some boxes are simply better for specific needs. Not all boxes are created equal. Use hanging boxes, like the Special Mate Hanging Spoon Lure Box for spinnerbaits. This makes sure the skirts stay fluffy.

A solid, waterproof case is needed for accessory items, such as a scale, scissors, pliers, hook remover, and knife. Keep these accessories in a plastic carry box that is easily stored and removed on the boar.

This way, back at the dock or at home, there is no rummaging around to find them. Just retrieve the knife box, where there’s not only knives, but a sharpening stone, small scale, and even freezer bags for fillets.

Fishing is complicated enough. Keep it simple with a formulated plan that starts with being organized on and off the boat. Keep a disciplined approach at home and, with a little attention during the off season, everything will be available right when it is needed.

Cabela’s Advanced Anglers (TM) Tackle Bags Soft-Sided

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Nearly 1 in every 6 Americans went fishing last year. More than 55 million people hit the water ways angling for a good time, the largest increase in fishing participation in more than 40 years.

First time participants rose more than 14 percent. This left a lot of new anglers wondering just how to fish.

Most of the time, those introduced to fishing are children, and they are learning from either a parent or someone like a camp counselor. Luckily, there are plenty of resources out there for adults just starting out.

The first step is finding out what fish are in the area. Most states and cities have on-line resources to identify the species of fish in local rivers, lakes, or seaside.

How to Choose a Rod and Reel

For most beginners, a spinning rod and reel set is the way to go. These are not only the most versatile of rigs, but they are the easiest to learn and most forgiving for beginner mistakes.

Beginner spinning reels mount under the rod, facing down, with the line guides facing down as well. The angler holds the reel between their fingers. There are many sets that come pre-strung and ready to go.

The best fishing rod and reel combo for beginners are:

• Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2: Shakespeare is a standard name in fishing and continues to provide excellent kids fishing gear at reasonable prices. The Ugly Stick series is their go-to line.
• FishOaky Starter Fishing Rod: this collapsible set is not only light and portable, but it also comes with a variety of hooks, lures, and other starting accessories. It is a great choice for saltwater beginners as it is made to be non-corrosive.
• Penn Fierce II: This is a graphite set made to the high standards of Penn, but still affordable for those just starting out. Like the Ugly Stick, this a standard beginner go-to set.

A Child Will Never Forget their First Catch When You Teach Kids to Fish!

Best Tackle Box for Beginners

Along with a rod and reel, beginners will need hooks, weights, floats, and lures, as well as a tackle box to store them. Like beginning rods, there are a variety of options out there that are inexpensive and still complete.

• Plano Ready-Set-Fish 3-Tray Tackle Box: The name of this set says it all. Plano is a well-respected brand that supplies quality for a reasonable price.
• MadBite Freshwater 214pc Terminal Tackle Kit: This is an excellent starter kit for those sticking to freshwater fishing. It will not stand up to saltwater conditions but is otherwise an excellent choice.

How to Tie a Fishing Knot

When learning how to fish, one of the most basic skills is how to tie a fishing hook to the line. There are two common knots that every angler knows.

• The Clinch Knot: Also known as a fisherman’s knot, this is an easy, durable knot that will keep the hook on the line no matter how hard the fight.
  • Pass the end of the line through the hook eye and wrap it around the line’s body 5-7 times.
  • Insert the loose end through the first loop next to the eye and bring it back through the loose section.
  • Pull both ends to tighten. Trim any extra line.

• The Snell, or Knotless Knot: This is like the fisherman’s knot, but ties around the hook for a more solid feel and smoother release.
  • Cut the line to your preferred size and loop the end of it.
  • Tie the loop.
  • Insert the opposite end through the eye of the fishhook from front to back.
  • Hold the hook’s shank and wrap the line around 6-8 times heading down toward the end of the hook.
  • Grab the other end of the line and push it through the hook’s eye from back to front.
  • Moisten the line, hold the hook and the looped part of the line firmly, and pull the other end to complete the knot.

How to Set Up a Fishing Pole

With line tied to hook or lure, the last part is setting depth. Most beginners fish with bait, which means a weighted sinker and a floater, or bobber.

Bullet weights are the best for beginners. This is because they can easily be moved to different spots on the line and can be tied on after the hook.

Many beginners find they’ve set their rig but forget the weight and must undo everything to start over. This avoids that frustration.

The weight should be tied several inches away from the hook. This allows the line to sink to the desired depth but allows the bait free movement in the water.

A bobber is added to keep the line in place and to alert the beginner with a visual indicator of a strike.

Most bobbers are round and have spring-loaded catches that allow them to be moved anywhere on the line. This allows anglers to change the depth of their bait with ease.

Finally, hook the bait being used and the fishing jig is ready to be used.

How to Get a Fishing License

Many, but not all, areas require a license to fish. Before any new angler hits the water, they need to ensure they are following all applicable state and local laws.

Nearly every state requires a license to fish. Some states have discounted, or free, licenses for children and seniors. In many coastal states, anglers need separate licenses for fresh or saltwater fishing.

There are also some species of fish that require a special license.

It is, however, easy to apply for a fishing license, and to get a fishing license. Many outdoor retailers have license kiosks directly in the store, meaning a new angler can get gear and license all at the same place.

While many law enforcement officers are understanding of new anglers not knowing the need for a license, it is always better to make sure those going out have everything they need to avoid fines.

Keep or Catch and Release

Finally, decide before heading out if these are fish to keep and eat, or ones to catch and release. If keeping them, make sure to have a bucket or gill line handy. Check out the types of fish you can catch with your kids and teenagers.

If releasing, make sure to get a net and a good set of hook pliers to ensure the fish is harmed as little as possible.

Teaching a Child How to Fish is One of the Most Meaningful Things a Kid Will Take with Him or Her for the Rest of their Lives.

The post How to Fish appeared first on Bass Fishing Tips - Fishing Tackle Boxes.

From river trout and lake trout to sea running brown trout, there’s a lot to know about this hard fighting, fun to catch, delicious fish.

A Rainbow of Variety

Probably the best-known species of trout fish, rainbow trout are native to the pacific coast, ranging from Alaska to Mexico. However, they have also migrated or been introduced to a much larger area.

Rainbow Trout

Freshwater rainbow trout can be found in the Great Lakes and all the way south to Georgia. Known for their brightly colored pink stripes, great taste, and ease of catch, they are a favorite worldwide when stocking lakes.

Rainbow trout are larger than most other trout species yet are quick to strike a line and put up a good, but short, fight. This has made them one of the world’s favorite fish for stocking lakes and fisheries.

Throughout the US Midwest lakes stocked with easy to catch rainbow trout are often set up as areas where parents can bring kids to learn about fishing.

This has also made them a favorite food fish, as nearly every child takes pride in being able to eat what they catch.

There are different types of rainbow trout, including the saltwater Steelhead trout, and river-native Colorado Golden trout and Oregon Redband trout. All are similar in size and taste.

Steelhead trout are one of the larger types of trout fish, reaching 3-4 feet in length. Anglers in the Pacific Northwest know to watch for them when they return to freshwater to spawn from January to April.

Cutthroat Trout

While smaller than their colorful relatives, Cutthroat trout have both a better name and a larger subspecies. There are more than 11 different types of Cutthroat trout throughout the western US, making them one of the nation’s most prolific fish species.

Cutthroat Trout

Some areas have so many different types of Cutthroat trout there are multiple, and specific, species in neighboring rivers and streams.

Named for the bright red area behind their lower jaw, Cutthroats are a favorite of river anglers, especially for fly fishing, as they put up a decent fight and are delicious panfish.

Natives versus Invaders

While all different types of trout can be found in North America, not all of them started there, or are even really trout.

As the name implies, European grayling are a species of British trout that were introduced into American riverways. The same is true of the European brown trout, which came from Germany.

Despite their origins, both species settled into their new home much in the same way as the humans who brought them. Brown trout can be found from the Great Lakes to Alabama, California to Canada, and everywhere in-between.

Not always brown, these golden, brown, or silver beauties all share bright orange spots and a thicker body. That’s because they are more closely related to salmon than trout.

While there can be a confusing variety of trout types, to top it off, all types of trout are not really trout.

Trout versus Char

Several different types of trout are, in fact, char, a cousin to trout that are so similar in appearance they were thought to be one species of fish for centuries.

Arctic Char

These fish are closely related to salmon and other cold-water species.

The best known of these mistaken trout are lake trout. This species of char is big. Really big. It is one of the easiest ways to tell that they are not, in fact, trout fish.

Reaching weights up to 80-pounds, these monsters are found throughout the colder, northern lakes, as well as the Rocky Mountains.

While all the same fish, they are also known as grey trout or Togue and are one of the more common types of trout in Utah.

On the smaller end, the petite Dolly Varden trout rarely top hit 10 pounds. Specific to the colder climates, they are one of the more common types of trout in Canada and Alaska.

Another type of char that thrives in the coldest rivers is the brook trout. Small and plentiful, they rarely reach more than 2 pounds, brook trout can be found anywhere in North America that sports super cold rivers or streams.

Trout to Save

Unfortunately, while most trout are hardy survivors found throughout the world, there are some of highly threatened and endangered trout species.

Apache trout, found only in Arizona and New Mexico, are still considered critically endangered, just one step from extinction.

These rare beauties are small, just under a foot in length, with golden yellow bodies and spots on either side of the eye that gives them a cat-eye look.

Gila trout, similar in look to Apache trout but without the eye spots, are only found in the rivers and tributaries of the Gila National Park.

Both species have been overfished and seen much of their habitat taken over by rainbow trout.

Brown Trout

Truly Different Types of Trout Fish

Splake, are a species of trout specifically created by breeding male brook trout with female lake trout. While they might be found in the wild, it is extremely rare to find them outside a stocked breeding area.

They are bred throughout Ontario as a sport fish for anglers. Splake grow quickly and are prolific feeders of other fish.

Their ravenous appetite has earned them the nickname of “Wendigo Trout,” named after the mythical beast of Algonquian folklore.

While they don’t look anything like traditional trout, tiger trout are another man-made species designed to be a great sport fish for anglers.

They have a dramatic, work-like pattern of spots that earned them their name, and it is worth looking up pictures of types of trout to see them.

These thick-bodied, strong fish put up a good fight and are one of the favorite types of trout in Wisconsin and Michigan. Tiger trout are bred by crossing a male brook trout with a female brown trout.

Check out the best spinning rods for trout and learn more about fishing for lake trout as well as trout fishing in the winter. Here are the top fall flies for fishing rainbow trout.

Bull Trout

The post Types of Trout appeared first on Bass Fishing Tips - Fishing Tackle Boxes.

Cobia fish is only the best kept fall and winter sport fishing secret on the east coast of the United States. Cobia fish are sleek, fast, and known for their torpedo like shape and powerful fight.

Big cobia fish are so powerful, in fact, they are often mistaken for sharks. Cobia can grow up to six feet in length and weigh more than 100 pounds. The world record cobia was a whopping 135 pounds, 9 ounces.

When caught, cobia fish put up a strong fight which makes them one of the most sought-after game fish in the ocean. In addition, they are clever fighters, known to feign being tired until close to, or even in, the boat.

Even baby cobias are known as exciting catches. Baby cobia have distinct coloring, with alternating black and white horizontal stripes and splotches of bronze, orange, and green.

Cobia fish are also known as black kingfish, black salmon, link, lemonfish, crabeaters, and black bonito, and are prized for their excellent flavor and firm flesh.

How To Fish for Cobia

Cobia fishing can be done year-round, but it is especially popular during the autumn months when the fish migrate to the southern parts of the Gulf of Mexico.

The migration takes them through Virginia and the Carolinas, where the late fall cobia season flourishes.

Cobia fish tend to be solitary hunters, another reason why the migratory months of the fall are a great time to go after them. During those months these fish can be found near reefs, wrecks, harbors, buoys, and other structures.

These fish are big and strong, so cobia fishing tackle needs to be sturdy enough to handle them. In addition, these are saltwater fish, so tackle needs to be sturdy enough to handle salt water.

The best cobia fishing tackle will consist of heavy spinning outfits. Rods should be seven feet in length for boat fishing and nine feet for casting. They should be rated as medium heavy.

Rods like the Penn nine-foot Battalion II, or the Carnage II Surf Spinning rod. Both are known for their quality design and are rated properly for fish such as cobia.

The rod should be matched with a 6000 to 8000 series spinning reel. This allows longer, more precise casts, even when using the lighter lures and bait cobia fish prefer.

While cobia can be caught on bait casters, anglers familiar with the species suggest spinning reels for maximum results. Look to reels such as the Shimano Twin Power SWC which have large enough spools to handle the amount of strong line needed when fishing for cobia.

Check Out Darcizzle Offshore’s YouTube Channel for a Great Video of Catching Cobia Fish in the Deep Sea by Clicking the Image. Credit: Darcizzle Offshore Video on YouTube

Cobia Fishing Tips

One of the best ways to fish for cobia is sight casting. Especially during migration, cobia have a unique habit of swimming along the surface, another reason they can be mistaken for sharks.

This surface swimming allows savvy anglers to spot the fish and cast a lure directly in front of it. This is highly effective when fishing from a boat or the edge of a pier.

Cobias are voracious feeders and do not need much enticement to hit bait. While cobia fish do not have sharp teeth, they will still cut through weaker line. A shock leader of fluorocarbon line is best as it is less visible in the water.

Experienced anglers will want to use a 50-to-80-pound leader on a swivel. Such a leader allows better movement and strength, especially when using a lure as opposed to live bait.

Without a doubt, a white buck tail jig is the best lure, especially when paired with a soft plastic trailer.

Cobia Fishing Charters

Cobias are native throughout the eastern coastline, ranging as far north as Maine and south to the Caribbean. They are also native to Australia and other temperate ocean areas.

Because they migrate to the Gulf of Mexico, cobia fish are a favorite of those going on vacation. Be it a cobia fishing charter from Texas, or fishing for cobia in Jacksonville, FL, there are plenty of options out there.

For those new to this species, cobia fishing charters can be a great way to learn techniques to catch cobia and to experiment with different types of gear.

Charter businesses know the best type of rigs and lures to use for different types of game fish. This makes them an ideal way to experiment and learn.

Even other charters will be prepared for cobia as they often follow other game fish. Cobia are known for feeding off chum streams and will sometimes follow another catch right to the boat.

Virginia and Florida charter companies are known for keeping a few dedicated cobia rigs set up and ready to go for when these opportunistic hunters come to the boat.

Cobia Fish Recipes

As it is not commonly caught, anglers will often ask: “Is cobia a good fish to eat?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes.”

In fact, cobia fish taste so good it was the featured ingredient in an episode of the Food Network’s “Iron Chef America.”

With a firm texture and an excellent flavor, cobia fetches a high price, as much as twice other fish. They have a sweet, buttery taste that is mild, meaning it can be prepared in numerous ways.

From deep fried to fresh, raw sashimi strips, cobia fish are a favorite of those in the culinary world.

In addition, cobia is known to have a range of health benefits as they are low in oil, high in protein, and have high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, the fish is high in vitamin B and potassium.

Since cobia have large, sturdy bones, fillets and steak cuts are the most common way to prepare the meat.

While grilling cobia fish is a common form of preparation, one of the best recipes is from Australian anglers. They will pan sear cobia steaks in a butter, macadamia nut coating.

Because their flesh is solid enough, cobia are also excellent fish for sturdier recipes, such as blackening and grilling.

Rusty Angler offers great fishing tips for all types of fish. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, too.

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Imagine a torpedo transformed into a fish, and you have envisioned a Pike fish. Let it grow from 2 – 4 feet in length and weigh anywhere from 5 to 50 pounds. Then give it rows of teeth that have earned it the nickname “gator fish.”

Welcome to the wonderful world of Northern Pike.

Slow and sluggish during most of the year, these fighting fish come alive as autumn hits and the weather gets cold. While other species are settling in for hibernation, these feisty fish are cruising for schools of baitfish.

As fall temperatures drop and winter approaches, most of the aquatic vegetation dies and deteriorates. This draws schools of baitfish looking for a meal and some warmer company.

Pike gather in groups to attack, meaning they are not only easier to find this time of year, but there are feeding groups making them easier to catch as well.

Savvy anglers look for the green patches of living vegetation amidst the dying brown, knowing there will be large pike waiting to hit their bait.

Wander to the Weeds

Those who favor fall pike fishing know to look for green patches among the dying vegetation. The cooler waters that this elusive fish prefer, kill the plants, meaning less oxygen and less bait.

However, not all vegetation dies the same, and larger weed beds can be enticing areas for giant pike looking to pack on pounds for winter. Use electronic finders to locate tall, vertical weeds.

While the surface may seem brown, the longer weeds are alive and teeming with bait, and that means the pike are nearby. Start by fishing the edges and them move towards the thickest part of the weeds.

For bigger pike, look towards larger, deep lakes, especially those with fat bait fish. The fatter bait fish will produce fatter pike. So smart fishers learn where the best bait is.

Crank It Up

Pike are big, aggressive, and fierce. That means catching them takes big, aggressive lures. Since these fish congregate around weeds, few lures are better for cutting through vegetation and hooking a pike than crankbaits.

• Rapala Super Shad Rap: Hand tuned wood and tank tested movement, this 5 1/2 inch crank is a go to for experienced fishers. It is particularly ideal for northern pike due to its size and durability.

Made with heavy duty hardware to survive a solid strike, and equipped with two black nickel treble hooks, the Rapala can stand up to even the strongest pike.

It is designed to mimic bait fish and can be cast and trolled. It even comes in multiple color variations for different times of day.

• Ratlin’ Rapala: Pike are suckers for vibrating lures and this one is a master at doing just that. Not only does this lipless crankbait move well, but it also has an internal rattle to bring all the fish from the weeds.

• Rat-L-Trap: Another master of the rattle, this three-inch lure is small but mighty. They create massive vibrations and have been known to attract pike that will swallow them whole.

So, make sure there’s a solid leader on the line to avoid losing the lure all together.

Best Pike Spinners

Spinners are another solid lure. With great in water action and the ability to roll over and look injured, these lures are sure to entice pike into solid, aggressive strikes. Check out some great winter fishing tips and winter bass fishing secrets.

• Big Tooth Tackle Straight Wire: Large, with a blade for vibration and a colorful skirt for attracting attention, it is hard to find a better spinner when it comes to catching pike.

These have a solid, double hook design that will ensure a good lock once you get a hit. And getting them to hit is what the Straight Wire does best, spinning vibrations and colors that entice an instinctual hit.

• Rapala X-Rap: Like its crankbait cousin, the X-Rap features solid construction that can withstand strong one strikes. The diving lip allows it to run up to six feet deep and create a slashing motion that this gorgeous Gator fish finds irresistible.

Due to a streamline shape and its internal long casting system, these four-inch lures can cover a lot of ground. And more ground means more chances for this amazing fish to pounce.

Big Pike Need Big Rigs

This Gator fish is strong and fast and that means having rigs that can handle them. Look for larger rods, at least 7-feet in length and rated for medium or heavy action.

Rods should also have fast action, allowing anglers to hook the pike rapidly and ensure a good fight. Finish by finding the sweet spot with a casting weight between 15 and 50 grams.

Pike have rows of sharp teeth, so a strong lead and braided line of 50-to-60-pound test is a must. Look for line like Power Pro and other brands that have been tested over time.

Sufix Advanced Fishing Line is another great choice, especially when paired with a solid reel like the Abu Garcia Revo SX.

Equipped with stainless bearings and spool braking system, the Revo SX leaves anglers wondering why the price is not much higher and thrilled that it is not. With 24 pounds of drag, it is ideal for handling large pike.

Eating Pike

With a mild flavor and firm, white flesh, these are a staple food for much of the colder parts of North America. While delicious, there are some notoriously difficult issues when preparing pike.

First and foremost, be aware this beautiful fish has a lot of bones. Filleting, creaming, or cubing the fish is necessary to avoid picking pointy bones from them while eating. The bones are also large, especially the y-bones.

However, the flesh is firm enough to be frozen for later use, making it a great year-round food fish.

From grilled to batter-dipped, baked or frying in a cast-iron skillet over a campfire, pike recipes are almost as abundant as the fish themselves.

Because the flesh is firm enough to hold up, batter dipped is a favorite method among many aficionados, as are fish fingers.

When looking for recipes, remember that white fish are softer in flavor and easily over spiced.

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King of the North

Many anglers think of king salmon as the top gamefish up north. After all, they carry the name “king.” However, locals and expert anglers know the real king is the Arctic Char.

The northernmost freshwater fish in the world, these colorful giants are found throughout Northern Canada, the Arctic Circle, and in the highlands of Europe.

Not only are these fish famed for their fight, they are routinely called the most colorful and photogenic of all sport fish. Bright red, orange, and mirrored silver coloring makes them a sought after trophy fish.

While some can be found in the ocean prior to spawning, arctic char are a freshwater species. Arctic char are found in larger, deep lakes and fast-running streams throughout the polar regions.

The largest populations are in Scandinavia and the northern most parts of North America. Because they are excellent table fair, char have also been successfully farmed in North America and Europe.

Arctic Char vs. Salmon

Predatory. Hard fighting. Tons of fun to catch. Exceptionally good flavor. All of these descriptions fit Atlantic Salmon, but they also describe arctic char.

Arctic char fishing is found in many of the same areas as salmon, but these feisty fighters also range deep into Alaska, Iceland, and Greenland. Char are opportunistic feeders, eating everything from insects and crustacea to mollusks and smaller fish. And those smaller fish include salmon.

Fishing for arctic char means brightly colored, almost garish, lures. Hot pink and yellow are go-to favorites.

The Mepps Syclops is one of the best lures. With five color patterns, including Hot Orange, this lure is sure to attract the feistiest char. It can be trolled, used in deep water, and even jigged for ice fishing.

Streamers for char include any variety of insect flies. Char target biting insects so gnat and mosquito flies are a first choice for experienced anglers. In fact, a mosquito fly was used to catch the World Record Char, which weighed in at 32 pounds, nine ounces.

Arctic Char Taste

What does arctic char taste like? For seafood lovers it is described as heaven on a fork.

Arctic char fillets are mild in flavor, hovering in flavor between trout and salmon, with a softer flavor many people love. It is a fatty fish making it not only a healthy option, but ideal for a variety of cooking methods.

Arctic char recipes run the gamut from grilled arctic char to deep fried.

Pan frying and grilling are the favorites of many northern natives. The skin of char is delicate, so it crisps well, and the flesh won’t become tough or dry unless seriously overcooked.

Not only are arctic char known for their ease of cooking and full flavor, they are also some of the most nutritious fish available.

Char has high protein levels and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. As such, arctic char nutrition is ranked high among healthy fish.

To make matters even better, because it is farmed and relatively unknown outside the far north, Arctic Char can be found for about half the price of pacific salmon. 

Best Bait for Catching Arctic Char

Known for their ferocious attitudes and hard fighting when on the line, char is a favorite of experienced sport fishers looking for a challenge. Since they are unknown outside their specific area, char can also be a unique trophy fish.

Arctic Char are known to leap from the water and will often attack with high-speed runs, easily clearing the water line when hitting a fly or lure.

Arctic Char in Maine will travel as far north as Norway. However, these ocean char will stay close to shore. This mean surf casting for those who don’t want to venture out to sea.

Fresh water char found in rivers, will gather by pools and long runs. Lake char tend to stay near the surface and by the mouths of rivers, where food is plentiful. Savvy anglers will stick to these areas and float bait on the surface.

Char are voracious eaters and will strike anything that even closely resembles their large variety of prey. For sport fishers, the problem can be knowing which prey the local char are eating at the time.

Ocean char will eat snails, salmon eggs, plankton, caddies, and smaller fish. The savvy angler will use bait that resembles the local prey, be it snails at the edge of a lake, or sculpin in the ocean.

While they will still strike artificial bait, when ice fishing for arctic char live bait is preferred. Insects and worms are preferred for ice fishing.

Best Gear For Arctic Char

Char is routinely caught on fly fishing rigs, and they are very willing to strike flies. However, spinning rods and reels are best for catching arctic char. Rods should be seven to nine feet in length, but have light or medium action.

The Ugly Stick Elite Salmon Spinning Rod is ideal for char, as it is made specifically to go after this type of fish. It is lightweight and sensitive, yet strong enough to handle the fight an arctic char fish will put up.

The St. Croix Triumph Salmon Spinning Rod is another excellent choice, made specifically for the rigors this type of catch will give.

Either rod can be paired with a spinning reel wound with 20-pound test monofilament line. Savvy anglers know that even the smaller char, with speed runs and leaping strikes, can fight like much heavier fish.

For those angling at an arctic char fishery, catches of 20 or even 30 pounds are not uncommon.

Char Charters

Since arctic char are in the arctic climates, many sport fishers will prefer a good guide if not a full charter experience.

Guides will know the best locations to catch arctic char. Charter services will not only provide guidance, but they will also include any needed gear, bait, protective clothing, and even lodging.

Those engaging a charter service can also request the catches be cleaned and prepped for cooking.

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Winter months are when the experienced anglers look towards winter species such as perch fish. Ice fishing perch can be silver perch, white perch, or the more popular yellow perch, when it comes to winter fishing few species are as widely known and desirable.

Perch can be found throughout the United States and are plentiful during the autumn and winter seasons. They are a particular favorite of ice fishers, especially the tastier yellow perch.

Known as one of the best panfish, perch fish cooked on a wood burning stove or over an open fire are delicious and easy to prepare.

They are also one of the more common fish for anglers, especially since they feed when other species do not. Perch fish are both prey and predators, so they stay hidden when the bigger predators are out.

When ice fishing perch, anglers can catch them during the early morning and dusk hours, leaving the in-between hours for other species. In addition, perch fish respond best to dead stick fishing.

An angler ice fishing perch can lay a rod across a bucket and leave it there, only occasionally tapping it to get movement. So, the savvy angler can fish for perch while also going after other species at a different hole.

Perch Ice Fishing Tips

Early in the ice fishing season, perch stick to structures. They congregate near weed beds, docks, and submerged rocks or trees. Perch fish will also school at various depths.

When ice fishing perch, experienced anglers look for transitional areas that change from mud to sand or sand to gravel. When ice forms, perch move from shallow water to deep water and drop-offs.

Unlike other species, perch will roam to hunt, making it easier to attract them than chase them. If it flashes, vibrates, or wiggles, perch fish will chase it.

Ice Fishing Lures for Perch

While live minnows are the best bait for perch ice fishing, there are a variety of ice fishing lures that work well and should be in any angler’s kit.

Swimbaits, like the Rapala Jigging Rap. As perch are cannibalistic, Rapala’s perch-colored designs make them an excellent choice. The Jigging Rap also has an amazing “injured fish” movement that drives perch wild.

Perch fishing lures like the Eppinger Original Daredevle Spoon. With a huge array of colors and sizes, it is hard to go wrong with these. Perch are especially attracted to the silver and brass colors.

White Perch Fish

While the smaller silver perch are great for children, white perch fish are the go-to for most winter anglers. While technically not perch, yellow perch are the only true perch fish in North America, white perch are winter’s fish.

Perch are feeding machines, eating everything in their path. Minnows, insects, shrimp, and even baby perch fish are fair game. This results in a wide variety of ice fishing lures for perch.

White perch will feed in both shallow and deep waters throughout the winter months. They swim in large schools and are easy to find with fish finders.

Fishing For Jumbo Perch

Perch are generally smaller fish, which is part of what makes them great panfish. That does not mean large, jumbo perch are unavailable. Yellow perch of three or even four pounds have been caught.

The largest perch can be found under the ice in the Midwest. Devils Lake in North Dakota, Winnebego in Minnesota, and South Dakota’s Waubay are legendary for their jumbo perch.

However, these are not the only areas and are often overcrowded with anglers. Successful anglers will look for 10-15 lakes and fishing holes, then set up rigs in the best areas.

While drilling that many holes might seem excessive to some, it pays off in the end. Once the right spot is found, a savvy angler is rewarded with a bucket full of jumbo perch.

Perch Fishing Rigs

When selecting a perch fishing setup, it is vital to know the clarity of the water. When managing multiple dead sticks or drop lines, swimming lures are particularly good.

In clear water perch can spot the lures from a distance. In darker water the light can hit these rigs and give perch something on which to focus.

A drop shot is one of the best ice fishing rigs as it allows anglers a sensitive, lightweight set up that allows quick changes in depth.

A drop shot rig is started with a shot hook with a one-eighth ounce shot weight underneath the hook. A soft plastic bait is the final piece, tied above the weight to provide a stable, free moving lure.

This rig can be sunk to varying depths, and even double or triple baited with rigs at different depths to attract perch no matter what level they are feeding at.

Those ice fishing for perch will often triple set a drop rig with two soft baits sandwiching a piece of live bait. This brings perch to the live bait while also enticing them towards the lures.

Catch And Eat

Is percha good fish to eat? Absolutely. Perch are known as one of the bests eating fish and are a stable in many campsites throughout the country.

The meat of perch fish is white, flaky, and still sturdy enough to handle deep frying or baking. In addition, it is a softer meat meaning it easily takes on the flavors of sauces and seasoning.

Some of the best perch fish recipes include pan frying in butter, lemon, and salt for a classic campfire dinner, or baked parmesan perch fillets for more diverse fare.

For those who enjoy perch fish fried, recipes range from cracker coatings with pepper and butter fried in a pan to traditional southern deep frier recipes.

One of the best-known recipes for fried perch fish is a cornmeal coating seasoned with chilis, onion, and garlic. The cook can add chili to whatever level of heat is desired without overpowering the fish.

This is a favorite recipe in the southern states where it is often paired with hush puppies, corn, and grits.

Make sure you have the right ice fishing gear, because you don’t want to be caught in the cold without the proper protection.

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