Fishing in the modern age is a confusing beast. There’s enough rods, reels, and lures out there to confuse even the most seasoned of anglers. If you’re a fresh recruit to the world of bass fishing, no doubt there’s a bunch of questions floating around in your head. It can all seem intimidating, but fear not - we’re here to answer your questions. Even the weird ones.

Why Should I Fish?

Relieve stress. Practice self-reliance. Stimulate your mind. There’s a myriad of different benefits, a lot of them health related. Fishing gets you out the door, and forces you to engage with nature. Days on the water can also create lifelong memories betweens friends, and family alike.

But Why For Bass?

In terms of lake fish, they pack a serious punch. Catfish and carp are big, but don’t put up much fight. Other sunfish like brim and bluegill can get pretty big, but it’s rare - and they tire out fast. Bass hit every category. In a healthy environment, they get really big, really strong, and really hungry. They’re a consistent source of challenging, enjoyable sport fishing.

Is Fishing Hard?

It depends. The method and techniques themselves just take a little practice. In theory, it’s simple - throw a bait in the water, catch a fish. Sometimes it’s as simple as this. But, as you look to target bigger fish set personal records, things need to get a little more specific. You’ll need to master certain techniques, study on feeding and mating habits of the fish, and carefully select the spots in which you fish. It’s a lot to think about, but it all leads up to the goal of bagging a monster bass.

Is Fishing Expensive?

It can be, but doesn’t have to be. This largely depends on how seriously you want to take it. With just a single rod, and a basic variety of tackle, you can catch fish in just about every situation. Like anything in life, though, you can spend a little more to make things easier. More expensive reels offer smoother casting. Advanced rod technology makes for lighter materials, with better feel. Purchasing additional rods/reels lets you switch up baits and lures at a flash. But this all comes with time - start simple!

Can Anyone Fish?

Of course! Fishing is for everyone. It’s a pursuit provided by the earth, for the enjoyment of those who live on it. You can be any age, come from any background, and live anywhere on the earth. There’s always a lake, pond, or stream somewhere - and fishing waiting to be caught.

Do I Need A Boat?

No! In all honesty, a boat is the last thing you need for fishing. It’s a beautiful luxury, and stands to increase your efficiency. It also opens up new fishing spots, and lets you get to areas inaccessible by foot. But it’s absolutely unnecessary in terms of just catching fish. Fishing from the shore is a perfectly effective way to reel in monster bass.

How Do I Choose Fishing Lures?

Do some research on where you’ll be fishing! Every lake will require different lures based on depth, water clarity, weather. As you slowly pick up baits and lures for different situations, your tackle box will grow - and you’ll get to the point where you can adapt to just about any location, or situation. Talk to other anglers too - if someone is catching fish on it, it probably works!

How Do I Pick a Rod/Reel?

This depends largely on the size of the fish you’re targeting. Bigger fish will need a sturdier rod. Some lures will need a faster gear ratio, or specific reel to cast them effective. If your lake is full of smaller fish, you can scale down your entire setup to make the fight a little more fun. Start with a middle-of-the-road option, and tweak your setups as you gain experience.

How Do I Get Started Fishing?

Find a friend! Anybody seriously into fishing is going to have more than enough equipment to bring you along, and get you started. Odds are, they’ll be just as excited to introduce you to the sport!

The other perfect option for a new angler is eBaits Tackle Box. It takes all of the stress out of lure selection - all you do is fill out your fishing profile, and they’ll ship a custom box to your door every month. Within a few months, you’ll have a fully kitted out tackle box that can take on any situation!