FishAdviser

Are you thinking of getting a pet frog but don’t have any clue about how to care for it? Getting any pet is a huge responsibility and it can be overwhelming. However, taking care of a frog is much like caring for any other small animal, just with different challenges to overcome.

As long as you keep up with these responsibilities and know what to expect from your frog, you can ensure that they live a long and healthy life. Here are ten ways to keep your pet frog happy and healthy!

10 Best Ways To Care For Your Pet Frog

1. Add a Waterfall

Aquatic habitat is perhaps one of, if not, the most important things you can provide for your pet frog. This allows him to experience the natural elements of his environment and gives him an area that he is comfortable in where he can come up for air without feeling threatened.

This will lower his stress levels, allowing him to live a longer and healthier life. Before you consider adding a waterfall though, make sure you have considered other factors such as size, water flow (calm or fast), and also what it’s made from as these can all add to his happiness.

2. Feed Them The Right Foods

There are a lot of foods that you shouldn’t feed your pet frog. Some of these are things that would be extremely harmful to your frog, while others simply aren’t healthy for them.

This includes iceberg lettuce, which is mostly water and doesn’t provide much in terms of nutritional value. In fact, it can cause bloating. Food preference may also vary on different species of frog.

Make sure you know what your frog species feed on. Some frogs feed entirely on plants, while others on small insects like Mealworms;
others feed on both.

3. Consider Getting Another Frog

While it may seem like a good idea to get more frogs if you already have one, keep in mind that they may not always be friends. If you are looking for more than one pet frog, make sure to shop around and find frogs that would thrive together.

This is especially important for male and female frogs; pairing them up can cause serious problems down the road. Instead of just purchasing another frog, try investing in a second aquarium; oftentimes both frogs will claim their territory within one tank, but with enough space, they’ll still feel like part of a family.

4. Add A Hideaway Cave

Most pet frogs enjoy a small cave or hollow log for sleeping and hiding. Adding a snug cave to your terrarium will help make your frog feel more at home and give it a secure space of its own.

Hideaway caves are especially useful when housing multiple frogs together, as they can provide an escape from fighting, mating behavior, or territorial conflicts.

5. Plant Some Grass

A healthy frog needs a good source of fresh grass to munch on. Most pet frogs are fed commercial frog food, but try planting some oat or wheatgrass in small pots around your house.

Frogs will love nibbling it and you’ll be able to use it as a conversation piece when friends come over. Just add some water and watch as your tiny garden grows. If you have any experience with outdoor plants, be sure to wash off any chemical residue before feeding it to your frog.

6. Keep An Eye On Their Environment

One of the most important things you can do for your pet frog is to make sure that it’s living in a healthy, well-balanced environment.

You should provide your pet with an appropriate food source and clean water at all times; you should also offer a natural habitat that consists of ample space for climbing, hopping, and swimming.

Maintaining a healthy home for your pet can prevent illness or injury from occurring because frogs are sensitive to changes in their environment.

If your frog doesn’t appear to be acting normally, if it seems lethargic or is having trouble moving around, you should contact an expert immediately.

7. Give Them Good Lighting Conditions

Your frog won’t live for long if you don’t provide them with sufficient lighting. Make sure that you give your pet frog a warm lamp to bask under, preferably one that emits light in its native wavelengths.

Some people even use fishing lights to provide illumination for their frogs. It may be a good idea to place your pet frogs by a window and let them bask in natural sunlight as well.

8. Don’t Miss Signs of Illness

It can be difficult to tell when a frog is sick, but one of your first signs that there is a problem should be poor appetite. If you notice that your
pet frog hasn’t been eating for several days, take him or her to see a
vet immediately.

Other symptoms you might spot are excessive sleeping, lethargy, or small lumps or sores on his body. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet.

You can also seek out information from local pet stores and breeders who have more experience with frogs and knowledge about their care. Most importantly, don’t give up. Frogs are very resilient creatures who do well in captivity if they are given proper care and attention.

9. Maintain Proper Humidity Levels

Too much or too little humidity in your frog’s habitat can be extremely detrimental to your pet. Luckily, if you maintain proper humidity levels and keep a close eye on both water and air quality, there’s really nothing to worry about.

If you notice that your frog is feeling a bit dry, simply add a bit more moisture to its habitat by misting it daily or watering it with an organic substrate like coconut fiber or sphagnum moss.

If, however, you notice too much moisture in its environment, place a few paper towels over the top of its cage and wait for them to soak up excess moisture.

10. Clean Their Tank Frequently/

Cleaning a pet frog’s tank is vital as you would do for your pet fish. A dirty environment can easily lead to infection or other diseases in frogs. If you notice algae growing in the tank, it’s time to clean it!

Add some non-toxic cleaning supplies and scrub away! Disinfecting your tank is also a great idea to keep your pets healthy.

Final Thought

Frogs make wonderful pets, but some people are leery of them because they are amphibians and therefore do not appear to be as cuddly as dogs or cats.

They may seem daunting to care for, but in reality, caring for a pet frog is not much different than caring for any other animal. With these ten tips, you will be able to properly care for your frog.

If you love spending time outdoors and enjoy fishing, then you need to get the best fishing equipment to make the most of your hobby. Fishing is a great way to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also a lot of fun! In this article, we will discuss the top essentials you need for a successful fishing trip.

Rod & reel

The first thing you need is a quality fishing rod and reel. There are many different types of rods and reels on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is suited for your needs. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting an all-purpose rod and reel combo. This will allow you to fish for a variety of species in both freshwater and saltwater.

Line

Next, you will need to select the right fishing line. There are many different types of fishing lines available, so it’s important to choose one that is suited for the type of fish you’re targeting. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a versatile all-purpose fishing line. This will make it easy to tackle a variety of fishing scenarios.

Tackle

In order to catch fish, you will need some quality fishing tackle. This includes items such as lures, hooks, sinkers, and bobbers. It’s important to select the right tackle for the type of fish you’re targeting. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a variety of basic tackles that can be used for many different types of fishing.

Castable fish finder

A castable fish finder is a great tool to have in your arsenal. It allows you to see what’s going on beneath the surface of the water, making it easier to locate fish. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a basic castable fish finder. We recommend you purchase a shallow water anchor to improve fishing experience. This will allow you to easily find fish and make your fishing more successful.

Live bait

Another essential for a successful fishing trip is live bait. This can be anything from worms to minnows. Live bait is often the best way to attract and catch fish. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting several live baits to try. Make your fishing trip even more successful by using the right live bait.

Lures

Lures are another important piece of tackle. They are designed to imitate natural prey and attract fish. There are many different types of lures available, so it’s important to select the right ones for your fishing style. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a variety of basic lures that can be used for many different species of fish.

Tackle bag

Last but not least, you will need a good quality tackle bag to store all your fishing gear. A tackle bag makes it easy to keep everything organized and accessible. It’s also great for transporting your gear from one spot to another. If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a basic tackle bag that will hold all your essentials.

These are the top essentials you need for a successful fishing trip. Make sure to pack all of this gear and you’re sure to have a great time out on the water!

Wales is the perfect example of great things coming in small packages. The 20,782 square kilometers country is full of natural beauty. With all that natural beauty come adventures and experiences of a lifetime. One of the most popular attractions of Wales is Carp Fishing! 

There are several fishing spots in Wales in general, but so much so that it might get a little too confusing to figure out which one is ideal. This post will eliminate all of that confusion by taking a closer look at 6 of the best fishing lakes in Wales for Carp Fishing! 

1. Commonwood Fisheries

Those looking for several days of fishing-centric adventure would love Commonwood Fisheries. The fishery is only about 4 kilometers away from Holt and easily accessible by car. The fishery spans across 60 acres, and in it are several grasslands and nine individual lakes, offering lots of views and sights to see too. 

For starters, visitors can come in their cars to just spend the day there, or bring in their own motorhomes and pitch them at the site. One of the best things about the main “entertainment” area of the fishery is that they also have little fishing pools for children where they can fish on their own. There are also fishing classes available on the grounds for people that might not be 100% confident about going out on the lakes on their own. 

Some of the biggest carp caught in the lake was around 30 lbs, and catfish over 50 lbs. More of the highlight catches can be seen on their social media pages! 

The entire fishery is open for 12 hours every day (7 am to 7 pm). However, it may close earlier in the winter months when dusk is earlier. Visitors can get 2 rods for £12.50 and 3 rods for £17.50 for one day passes.

View Fishery

2. Llyn y Gors Fishery

Those that want some variety on their fishing trip should give Llyn Y Gors Fishery a shot. There are seven lakes at the facility, each suited for a different level of angler. They start with “The beginners lake,” which is quite literally, a lake meant for beginner anglers to try out. This is an excellent lake for newer anglers or children interested in trying it out. Once they’re a little more confident with the rod, they can move over to “the match.” 

The match spans over 2.5 acres and is filled with at least 11000 fish of all different kinds for visitors to catch.

Another step up from the match is Reed Lake. In it are 5000 fish waiting to be caught. However, because the lake is relatively large with only a couple thousand fish, they’re not the easiest to catch, and the angler would have to have moderate skill levels to be able to catch the fish, but if they are, they would have a great time spending a day at this lake! 

Although all the other lakes are great too, those that are particularly looking to fish carp would have the best time at the carp lake. This is a 5-acre lake that’s full of carp. Specifically, a minimum of 400 carp in the entire lake. The amount makes it reasonably easy for an experienced angler to catch a carp, but a moderately experienced one might also be able to get the job done well! 

In the lakes, anglers can find carp up to 30 lbs and even Catfish up to 50 lbs, sometimes even bigger, which are enough to make anyone’s fishing day a success!

Tickets at the Llyn Y Gors Fishery start at £5 and go up to £56 for a two-day pass.

View Fishery

3. White Springs Fishery

White springs fishery is one of those places where anglers for almost every type of skill level can easily come together and have a great time. The fishery stretches over 37 acres in total, housing five lakes, all of which are stocked with fish to make everyone’s fishing excursions a massive success. 

The one everyone should start with is pleasure lake. This lake is designed to be suitable for anglers of every skill level. It’s not too deep and has 20 pegs that are nicely spaced out, enough for some fish to be a challenge, but also so less experienced anglers can still get some decent catches! In 2004, the fishery was also where the biggest carp (45 lbs) was caught in Welsh!

Specimen Lake is the biggest lake in White Springs Fishery. It measures around 10 acres, although that wasn’t always the case. This lake was recently merged with another on the grounds to make it bigger, so throughout the 10 acres, visitors are going to find regions that are different from the other because it is two lakes in one. However, since the lake is on the shallower side, for the most part, it is relatively easy to get some great catches through the months of spring and summer. Experienced anglers should have an easy enough time throughout the rest of the year. 

On the grounds, there’s also a match lake and “the pit,” which is another pleasure lake, so there’s lots of space for anglers to feel relaxed enough to go about their fishing day without feeling like they’re fishing in a massive crowd! 

Tickets at the White Springs Fishery start at £11.00 for a day ticket and £22.00 for a 24-hour pass for non-members. Tickets for the specimen lake start at £18.00 for the day pass and up to £154.00 for a week long ticket.

View Fishery

4. Cefn Mably Lakes

People looking for the best fishing spot near Newport and Cardiff should look no further than the Cefn Mably Lakes. These lakes are in the middle of both areas. From the M4, it only takes around 5 minutes to get there. 

At the facility are two coarse lakes, great for experienced anglers, and six specimen lakes that can be used by less experienced anglers too. The biggest carp catch here has been around 37 lbs, and similar fixed carp exist all around the facility throughout the year. 

One of the best parts about this facility, though, is the fact that there are modern cabins right at the edge of the water. This allows visitors to stay at the facility and fish right off the deck! An experience where the natural and the modern mesh together perfectly! 

Ticket prices at the Cefn Mably Lake start at £24 and go up to £80 for the 72-hour pass.  

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5. Springwater Lakes 

Springwater Lakes has something for every type of angler. There’s one specimen lake, two mixed coarse lakes that are great for fishing for carp in, and one tench crucian lake that’s a little more aimed toward the more experienced anglers. Apart from those, there’s also a silverfish lake filled with just silverfish and one fly fishing lake. The variety of the lakes keeps the catch interesting too, but those that are looking to only go for carp should stick to the specimen lakes. All of the lakes span around 3 acres each!

Some of the biggest carp catches at Springwater Lakes have been around the 35 lbs mark, and there are lots of the big ones all around the facility just waiting to be caught. 

Tickets at Springwater Lakes start at £10 and go up to £18 for a day ticket.

View Fishery

6. Penuwch Carp Fishery

Unlike all the other mentions on this list, Penuwch Carp Fishery doesn’t have separate lakes spanning across the fishery. Instead, it’s one 2.5 acre lake that’s designed to provide a great fishing experience for all different types of anglers. There are 12 swims in total, making it great for anglers trying to find their own little spot to fish around. 

Some of the biggest catches at this fishery have been around 30 lbs, and that size is very easily found throughout the facility. The best fish is caught at spots with less of a crowd. So visitors are encouraged to find their own spot and try to move away from the general public while they’re there. Those that can manage that would be in for a great fishing day ahead of them! 

Tickets at the Penuwch Carp Fishery start at £15 for the day ticket and go up to £27 for the 24-hour ticket in the summertime. The prices are lower in the winter, £12 and £25 respectively. 

View Fishery

A Day Full of Fishing Awaits!

Wales is a place where any angler can have a day full of catches, even if they’re not the most experienced ones. Even though carp and catfish aren’t the easiest to catch, when there’s enough of them in the water, it ups the chances by a lot, which is also what makes these lakes the perfect fishing spot for just about anyone! 

The six fishing lakes featured in this post would be enough to ensure several days of fishing fun, peaceful mornings on the water, and an overall great time!

Want to find more fishing lakes in Wales? Why head over to our fishery listing page where we have over 50 lakes listed within Wales.

France has some truly huge Carp with the current record standing over 100lbs, it is not hard to see why thousands of British fisherman flock to France each year for Carp fishing trips.

So why do Carp seem to grow much faster and larger in France?

There are many different theories on this, but the main reason seems to be related to France having a warmer and longer summer than the United Kingdom. This in turn means the water temperature in the lakes is warmer and for longer periods of time.

The water temperature has a huge effect on the Carp’s feeding patterns. They will often only start actively feeding once the water temperature rises above 12°C and then feed heavily once the temperature rises above 18°C. The optimum temperature for a carp’s maximum growth is between 20°C and 25°C. The growing season for carp in France is much longer, which means it is much more likely that the carp will grow faster and for longer periods of time when compared to Carp that reside in colder countries.

On average, Carp can only grow for about 15 years before they stop getting any bigger. This is a very short time for them to reach the monstrous size of 60lbs plus, which means they need a growth rate of at least 4lbs per year. The United Kingdoms climate is just not warm enough to cater for this amount of growth.

Many French fisheries will implement feeding programs to take full advantage of the long summers in order to grow some truly monstrous Carp which will keep anglers entertained for years to come.

Kayak fishing for crappie has recently gained more popularity due to its low barrier to entry. Kayak fishing for crappie requires very little equipment, and it’s surprisingly productive – the stealthy profile of the kayak lets you get close to crappie without disturbing them.

Getting Started

To start kayak fishing for crappie, you need a few basic supplies. As mentioned previously, these are relatively easy to obtain, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money. The essential items that you need include:

Fishing Gear

You’ll obviously need a fishing rod and reel. We suggest starting with a light action rod paired with a 2000 series spinning reel. That’s a great setup for getting started with fishing for crappie. It can also be used for other species and is an excellent option if it’s the only setup you will have.

You’ll also need a few basics, including fishing line and hooks. You can save a few dollars by purchasing a spool of 6lb test monofilament – it’s dirt cheap and will get the job done. If you want to go all-in, pick up some braid and throw on a fluorocarbon leader.

My favorite hooks are Aberdeen hooks. They are a solid crappie hook and help prevent the fish from being gut hooked.

Kayak

Choosing a kayak is a very personal choice, but a few guidelines will help you make a decision. First, the large the kayak, the heavier and harder to maneuver it will be. On the plus side, larger kayaks are also the most stable. Smaller kayaks allow you to be nimble on the water but tend to feel “tippy” and can be very hard to use for larger boaters.

I’d recommend testing a few kayaks before you make a decision. Also, buying a kayak used can save you a good amount of money.

Lures

One of two types of bait is necessary for this type of fishing. The first is artificial bait, also known as plastics. Plastics come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but I’d recommend a few crappie magnets in various colors to get started.

The second is live bait, and for crappie fishing, that means minnows. Minnows have to be purchased from a local bait shop but can be very effective on the lake.

Tacklebox:

A tackle box is used to hold all of your fishing gear, and it should not be overlooked when preparing for kayak fishing for crappie. Fishing on a kayak is very different from fishing from shore or a boat because space is premium. Being organized will keep you safe on the water and allow you to focus on fishing.

Lifejacket

A lifejacket or personal flotation device is an absolute must when kayak fishing. It’s very
easy to tip a kayak, and having a PFD on will save lives.

There are many different types of lifejackets, but I’d recommend one made specifically for kayaks. These typically have a higher back so that you can sit comfortably in your kayak seat without being hunched over.

Also, I’d stay away from the inflatable PFDs. These tend to be expensive and
unnecessary for a kayak angler.

Electronics

Many kayaks these days easily allow you to attach a battery, depth finder, and transducer. Having access to a quality fish finder will make it significantly easier for you to locate fish and cover. This is especially true if you are fishing during the summer or are targeting deep cover.

When choosing which fish finder is right for you, it’s important to remember that you don’t have a lot of space on the kayak. Stick to smaller screens as they won’t be in your way like some of the 9 inch or larger screens do. Also, larger depth finders are much heavier. Weight is a kayaker’s enemy, making it much harder to paddle. Try to keep
things light to save your arms.

Wrapping Up

To recap, getting started in kayak fishing for crappie is simple and easy. Keep in mind that most of the tips in this article have been geared towards small ponds, lakes and rivers. Kayak fishing is easy, fun and a great way to relax while getting some exercise. Be sure to follow the safety rules of the water, and when in doubt, please check your state’s boating laws.

When it comes to speed, wahoos are among the fastest fish in the ocean, making them appealing to competitive fishermen. The fish, shaped like torpedoes, can catch up to lures moving at speeds of up to 18 knots and more! High-speed trolling with wahoo lures is the most effective strategy for catching these fast-moving fish.

Targeting or fishing for wahoo is an art form that fishermen must develop through repetition and experience. Hooking this aggressive fish with a strong jaw is much easier said than done because of its rough mouth.

Furthermore, even if you successfully catch one, you must maintain a tight line. Unless you do this, the fish will take advantage of any slack it encounters and violently shakes its head, causing the hook to fall out.

If you are looking for a fishing holiday why not head over to fishing holidays area.

Consider the following while purchasing wahoo lures:

The most common method of catching wahoo is using high-speed trolling lures, which is the most thrilling method of seeing them. It’s exhilarating to hear your line burst off the reel with wahoo movement on it. While slow trolling or dropping jigs might be effective in catching them, you do not need to confine yourself to a single kind of fishing. When it comes to capturing them, dead bait may also be effective. Until you acquire more expertise and develop a preference for one type of lure over another, we suggest that you experiment with a range of different lures and baits fished in various ways.

Durability

Wahoo is a vicious predator that attacks with incredible force. They can swim at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, and you’ll be trolling at an hourly rate of more than 15 miles in many circumstances. That is a tremendous amount of power used to each stroke, and not every lure can withstand it. To avoid this, be sure to get a wahoo lure that is sturdy enough to withstand a few knocks while still running straight and without falling apart.

Attraction

You must first attract and tempt them to bite on your wahoo bait to catch fish. However, not all of them work are good to work with. Wahoo lures with enormous skirts that create a lot of movement in the water, wahoo lures that leave massive bubble trails or contain rattles to attract fish, and lures that replicate wahoo’s natural food species are all excellent choices. Wahoos eat Bonita and small tuna; therefore, lures that look like these fish are effective.

Colors

Blue and purple lures are the most effective colors for wahoo since those hues most closely match their natural prey. However, wahoo lures in a variety of bright colors like pink, purple, white, lime green, and any other wacky combination you can think of are pretty successful as well. If you aren’t getting any bites on your standard colors, don’t be afraid to experiment with something different. Colors out of the ordinary will not frighten away wahoo and may even be effective when all other tactics have failed.

What is the right and essential way to rig a wahoo lure?

You’ll want to thread a six-foot stretch of thick braided wire (480 pounds is a good gauge) through the bait and connect it to the hooks or hooks themselves. As a result of the sharp teeth of the wahoo, monofilament will be cut off if you don’t use the wire. When fishing for wahoo, use 8/0 to 11/0 hooks, ideally made of non-stainless steel. You can use Planers, weights, and downriggers to hold your lure at the proper depth while fishing.

Wrapping up,

If you are interested in getting Wahoo Lures, it is better to go through all the prospects and know in and out of the product before purchasing.

If you are planning on going fishing within the next 10 days why not checkout the local fishing weather with our very own fishing weather forecast.

Are you looking to catch those big predator fish? If so, you’ll need the right gear. Fishing for predators can be fun, but it can also be challenging. This article will discuss some of the best fishing gear for catching predators. It will also provide some tips for using that gear to your advantage. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, read on for some helpful advice.

Rods

There are a variety of rods that can be used for catching predators. Some anglers prefer to use heavy baitcasting rods, while others prefer lighter spinning rods. It all depends on personal preference and what type of fish you’re targeting. In the words of the team behind The Tackle Warehouse, whatever kind of rod you choose, ensure it has a good grip and feels comfortable in your hand. You’ll be using it for hours at a time, so it’s essential that it feels good in your grip. Also, keep in mind the length of the rod. 

A longer rod will provide more leverage when casting, while a shorter rod is better for targeting smaller fish in tighter spaces. Choose a rod rated for the type of fishing you plan to do. There are rods specifically designed for predator fishing, and they will be better suited for catching large fish.

Reels

The size of your fishing reel depends on the kind of line you use and where you plan to fish. Light lines require smaller reels, while heavy lines require larger reels. Most people prefer open-face spinning reels or baitcasting reels for predator fishing. These types of reels offer the best action and reliability. 

Some anglers like to use fly reels for saltwater fish, but these reels aren’t usually appropriate for freshwater. If you’re planning to use a heavy line, you’ll need a reel with a strong gear ratio. Otherwise, if the gear ratio of your reel isn’t strong enough, it will be difficult to crank in large fish.

When choosing a reel, be sure to get one that is rated for the size fish you plan to catch. A quality reel will have multiple ball bearings and a smooth drag system. It will help you fight big fish without wearing yourself out. It’s also vital to ensure the reel is properly spooled with the line before hitting the water. Running out of line in the middle of a fight with a big fish is not a good experience.

Lures

There are a variety of lures available for predator fishing, and it can be tough to decide which ones to use. The best way to figure out what works is to try a variety of lures until you find the right ones. Some anglers prefer topwater lures for catching bass and pike, while others prefer deep-diving crankbaits. 

When using lures, always ensure they are in good condition. A dull lure will not catch fish very well. Also, keep in mind that different lures work better under certain conditions. For example, a spinner bait is excellent for fishing in shallow water, while a deep-diving crankbait is better for fishing in deeper water.

There is no one “right” set of gear for predator fishing. It all depends on personal preference and what type of fish you’re targeting. However, by following the tips in this article, you can ensure you have the right gear for the job. So get out there and start fishing for predators.

Photo by Thomas Millot on Unsplash

Every fisherman dreams of owning his personal boat. When you own a boat, you don’t have to limit yourself to the confines of a lake or pond; instead, you may sail the seas in quest of fish anytime you want. Hence, going out to get your first fishing boat can be a thrilling experience for you.

However, it is also highly intimidating, and you may quickly become
confused while making such a significant buy. So we have gathered a few
tips which will make the overall experience a lot smoother.

What Type of Boat Do You Need

You are in the market for a fishing boat, but you need to know that there are quite a few variations of fishing boats for sale. Let’s see what they are:

Freshwater Fishing Boats

When fishing on a lake or pond, you can select from a variety of boats. However, if you want to catch a certain type of fish, you should look at boats that are specifically designed for that reason. Here are a few examples of the popular kinds:

Cuddy Cabin Boats

By getting this type of boat you are protected from the elements as they have a cabin upfront. The deck will be cramped for fishing space as the cabin will limit your deck space. However, if you are fishing in a larger body of water, consider going for this boat type.

Bass Boats

Bass boats usually can normally accommodate two people at a time and have lowered sides so that the wind can be reduced. Go for this option if you are particularly fishing for bass.

Side Console Boats

If you have a larger group of fishermen, about six or so, then going for this type of boat will be wise. The sides of this boat are higher and no matter what the elements are, you will be able to fish with this boat.

Saltwater Fishing Boats

There are a few types of boats available for you when you are going fishing in the ocean:

Bay Boats

If backwater fishing is your thing, go for the bay boat. The bay boat is sleek and slender, yet not fancy, and you will easily be able to fish on the bay with this boat.

Convertibles

If you are going offshore fishing, get a convertible boat. No matter what water type you are in, these boats will provide you with the speed you require as well as the space you need. These boats may be more costly, but they are an appropriate and popular choice for most full-time fishermen.

Center Console Boats

These boats are very popular with fishermen as they are created with fishing in mind. These boats have a high power capacity making them perfect for the open seas. So if that is what you are requiring for your fishing expedition, then centre console boats are what you should go for.

Keep Your Budget In Mind

It’s best to have a predefined budget and search within those parameters when buying a fishing boat. You need to know just how much money you have been approved for in case you require financing for your purchase.

You need to explore if you want to add on any loaded features, just as when you are shopping for a car. Bear in mind, you will have to set aside additional money for the regular maintenance that your boat will require. So be informed of those costs beforehand.

If you have a larger boat, you will require more fuel. Keep in mind that once you buy your boat, you have to insure and register it. So keep this in mind while shopping for a certain type of boat, since some boat models may require more money for registration and insurance.

Then there is the issue of storing your boat. You will have to pay to put it in someone else’s property or storage if you don’t have the resources to store it on your own.

Check The Current Value

You need to check the blue book value of a boat once you have decided on which one to get. This way you will be better prepared to negotiate a price.

Make sure to take into account the cost of an inspection or a trade-in with that cost. You can check local guidelines to determine the value of the boat. Just be sure to check all the considerations that come into play while you are determining the value of the boat.

Warranty

The boat that you will purchase is supposed to have a warranty associated with it. Make an effort to find out how long the warranty is extended and what items or conditions are covered in the warranty.

If you are going for a new boat, you will still get the same things included in the warranty, but the period of the warranty may vary. When purchasing a used boat, you have the facility to buy an extended warranty that the boat dealer will provide.

Go For An Inspection

In case you are opting to buy a used boat, an inspection of the boat before making any deals is a wise idea. You need to talk to the dealer extensively and find out all historical information regarding the boat such as how it has been used and what type of water it has been on.

It’s best to bring a knowledgeable friend or an experienced inspector along if you are not confident of going alone. The whole point of the inspection is to make your investment worth it in the long term.

Summing up

Buying a new fishing boat is exciting, but it’s also a time when many people make snap decisions. Because this is a substantial investment, you should go through a procedure when buying your first fishing boat. Follow the above tips to ensure that you are maintaining the required steps to buy your boat.

So don’t rush into it, rather take your time and do your research well before you make a deal to buy your first fishing boat.

Dead bait is one of the most effective baits for pike fishing, especially during the cold season. This makes a lot of sense if you look at it from the point of view of the pike: during the winter they are not as active as in the summer, which is why a dead fish is a perfect opportunity for a good meal without having to exert themselves.

But you can also catch pike on dead bait all year round, and so it’s always worth setting up a rod or two with dead bait. And the great thing about this method is that it tends to catch bigger pike, and is allowed on most fisheries (in contrast to live bait).

Recently, a friend of mine from Florida came over for a visit, and I decided to show him how we fish for pike on this side of the big pond. Robert Ceran is the founder of Sportfishing Buddy, and is an avid pike angler himself (though he calls them “northern pikes” in the US).

Robert was more than thrilled to see how we catch pike here, and we had a great fishing session on a cold and grey day in January, catching 5 decent Pike between us on dead bait (the biggest one weighing 19lb).

Below are the most important tips and tricks that will help you catch more pike with dead bait.

Use the right gear

Dead bait fishing for pike requires stronger gear than most anglers think. There are several reasons for this. First of all, pike can grow very big, and it’s common to hook bigger fish with this method, so you should use fishing tackle that’s sufficiently strong to land them. Let’s admit it, we’re all hoping to catch that monster pike that hardly fits in the net, and so we should be prepared for that eventuality by using a rod and reel setup that’s strong enough for the job.

Secondly, you’re probably going to be using bigger baits and heavier running leads than for other types of fishing, and you want to use a rod with sufficient backbone to throw these heavy rigs. Your rod should also be longer than 10 feet (and ideally around 12 feet), as this will help to cast your dead bait farther, which can help to reach areas that hold more fish.

Finally, it’s very common to get your dead bait snagged on rocks or sunken trees, which is why I like to spool 55 lb test braided line, or even stronger. This line is strong enough to bend open a treble hook, which means you can get your rig back in most cases.

If you’re based in London and want to apply some of these tips, take a look at the top 10 pike fishing spots in London.

Test many different kinds of dead bait for pike
While pike can be partial to almost any kind of dead bait, on some days you’ll get zero bites on some types of baitfish, while another type of fish performs extremely well. That’s why it’s important to try out different species, to find out what works best on your fishery.

You may also find that the most commonly used baitfish stop working after a while since the pike learns to avoid them. When that happens, you need to change things up, and find a new baitfish species that produce bites.

The great thing about using dead bait is that you can usually get a wide variety of species and sizes. You can either catch them yourself, buy them fresh from the fishmonger, or buy frozen fish from a well-stocked tackle shop.

Some of the best fish to use as dead bait for pike are:

Smelt
Mackerel
Lamprey
Herring
Roach
Rainbow Trout

Smelt are by far the most popular dead bait among pike anglers, and for good reason, as they tend to outperform all other types of dead bait. They have an unusual scent that resembles the smell of a cucumber, and for some reason pike seems to find that extremely attractive. While we’re on the topic of scent: oily fish like mackerel and herring can also work very well (though I’ve found they work best when they’re fresh, which isn’t always easy to obtain).

If you want to try this out in Yorkshire, the best place to start is by checking our list of the top 10 pike fishing spots in Yorkshire.

Among the most common species you can catch yourself are roach and perch, which can both work well. Since dead bait fishing is often most productive in winter, you can stock up on bait fish during the summer, and keep them in your freezer until the winter season. Keep in mind that some fisheries don’t allow the use of freshwater fish, in order to avoid the spread of diseases, so make sure you check the rules for your lake or reservoir first.

If you’re fishing on a lake where trout are stocked regularly, these can make a killer dead bait for pike. This is because farmed trout are easy to catch for pike, and thus become one of their favorite foods.

When I go pike fishing, I like to take at least 3 or 4 different types of dead bait along, so I can test what works best on that particular lake, and on that particular day. In addition, I also test various methods of modifying the bait (see below).

Baitfish modifications that will make your bait more attractive to pike

As already mentioned above, if many anglers use dead bait in your fishery, the pike start to avoid them after a while. But there are a few tricks you can use to make your dead bait stand out from the others, which can trigger bites when nothing else works. The most well known technique is to inject air or oil into the baitfish, which makes it float above the bottom, where it’s more easily visible for any pike passing by.

If you want to inject air into your baitfish, you’ll need to use a plastic syringe and needle (but do this with great caution, so you don’t harm yourself in the process). This only works when you’re using whole fish, as the air gets trapped inside the body cavity of the fish (making it float underwater). Obviously this isn’t possible if you’re using a cut fish.

In addition to air, you can also inject scents into the baitfish, and there are quite a wide range of different options available on the market, some of them specifically developed for pike dead baits. You can even inject a combination of air plus scent into the body cavity, which can make your baitfish even more attractive.

Finally, you can also use food colouring to “paint” your dead bait with various colours. The most commonly used colours are red and yellow, and they are usually readily available in tackle shops. Some of the commercially available ones actually combine colour with scents, to increase the attractive effect even more.

If you’re having a hard time finding the right locations to try out these tips, take a look at our article on the top 10 pike fishing spots in Essex.

It is (rightly) considered one of the symbol fish for what concerns lake fishing. Rumors circulate about
fans. A deservedly earned reputation. In the beginning, approaching it is really, really difficult. The tasty

flavor of royal perch, however, rewards with due interests.
His fillet is so tasty that many prefer it to salmon trout . But this is only one aspect that feeds its charm.

Lake Perch Fishing: Characteristics

The perch is a freshwater predator. Certainly not confusing with other species. The livery, entirely green, is characterized by streaks on the back. Orange fins inspire sympathy.

However, it is mainly the way he eats the bait that distinguishes it , as well as the strenuous resistance it opposes when it takes the hook. With a particularly large mouth, many small teeth knock out the bait before the final swallow.

To separate it from the hook , open the light perch with light thumb pressure and unfasten it. Be careful not to force your jaw too hard. Since it often moves in packs, it is possible to score excellent loot in a short time.

However, flushing it out requires a lot of patience. Waiting, without frenzy, the fleeting moment is fundamental. As well as observing the environment with a lively eye. Better therefore to give up if tenacity and obstinacy leave something to be desired.

When to fish for perch at the lake

The ideal time starts in June, and peaks in early July, when the temperature reaches 20 degrees. Rutile and bleak move very much in the current points.

The royal perch feeds mainly on their young, about 2 to 3 cm long and born the same year. Throwing in the catch is fun: hunt the little fish almost at the surface level. Even though it is tempting, I remember that some regions prohibit capture in April and May.

Useful information for perch fishing

Going for research implies maximum concentration. This fish can make itself invisible and difficult to catch. Shrewd enough to hunt prey in total silence below the surface. It moves in low areas or near submerged vegetation.

However, he is often seen on the shore, moved by curiosity. The depth and temperature of the lake mirror , the size of the basin, the possible presence of obstacles influence its behavior. Her favorite victim is fodder fish . Which exerts a strong attraction towards him.

That is why following its deeds can prove to be a production strategy. Alone, or together with a few alike, the royal perch navigates the bottom towards invertebrates such as worms and larvae.

Attention to the smallest details

In fact, calm and discipline are essential ingredients. Otherwise, frustration emerges. Anyone who is now a veteran knows that it is up to him at least to take time.

This lapse allows to establish the presence or absence of water. Provided that you have adequate sensitivity in detecting the change of a body of water.

Light, impalpable nuances help to determine if the real perch is around. The availability or not varies according to factors such as the time, atmospheric pressure (in relation to weather conditions) and changes in brightness.

A reliable shoulder is ideal: it will keep other fish in check. Assuming you hold on in the via gear or during recovery.

Perch fishing in small lakes

Except for the winter, perch can be found in the sub-stream. Watch out for grassy pitches, obstacles, branches and grainy bottoms. There are no absolute rules on recovery: it is sometimes effective if slow and constant; in other circumstances, lightning fast action leads to better results.

The launchers have free choice between monofilament, fluorcarbon and braided . An artificial bait mounted with the monofilament, given its elasticity, will prove more natural and less rigid to the perch. But, on the other hand, the sensation in the rod of the eaten will become less evident. And the fish will therefore have greater escape routes.

As for the monofilament, it is advisable to entrust your hopes to the steel cable. Maybe flanked by reduced carabiners.

Thus the small baits move correctly and remain priming. Another interesting aspect concerns the cable or the thickness of the wire. The sinking speed of the artificial bait and the ability to keep it from falling affect the duel.

Perch fishing in large lakes

The speech here changes. In large environments, where fishing blazes 365 days a year, a strategy mainly based on research is put in place. Using the boat and the depth sounder, where legally authorized, is essential to attack the flocks. And make excellent catches.

Following the period of scrub (i.e. reproductive) real perch preside over the shallow waters, which are particularly luxuriant as vegetation.

In any case, in summer and winter fishing it would be a good thing to scan the steps, the changes in depth and the margins of the shallows. The search becomes more complicated in open waters.

Medium-low level fishermen should head for the center of the lake . Layers of thermocline conceal thick packs. To which the perch also join. Thermocline refers to a stretch of water where the temperature differs from the surrounding areas.

A rather reliable value regarding the depth where it is easier to meet the predator. Temperature, brightness and oxygenation cause fish to proliferate.

Echo Sounder

In full navigation, if, well regulated, it will signal where there is a certain turbulence. It is nothing but the evolution of the sounder, an instrument that sailors have used for millennia. The same Sonar technology ( Sound Navigation And Ranging ) makes it effective .

Basically, it records the time between the emission and the return of the sound impulse. A value then halved. Thus notes the depth of the water. Paying attention to the depth, it will emerge that, in that specific area, the turbulence always stays at the same height.

Up to a certain age he leads a gregarious life, in pack. Over time, large specimens become lonely. Once the coveted prey has been found, they go into action.

The perch herding stick baits simultaneously. Based on the success achieved by the strategy pursued, color, size and type of bait will be adjusted .

Equipment and techniques

Generally it is enough to take a spinning rod from 15 to 20 meters in length. Not excessively fast, with a throw range of up to 20 grams.

Thanks to the tool it becomes easy to maneuver small , rotating minnows, silicone grubs, mounted on leaded heads and rubber shads.

The light reel, it is important that it is fast and reliable. For rods , spinning ones are fine, sensitive and nervous, or vertically, with the armrest on the line. We strongly recommend, in recovery fishing, taking care to adopt a fairly rigid gear.

As a result, the perception of fish touches and bites increases significantly .

With regard to the terminals, a 20mm fluorcarbon is suitable for all conditions. For suspicious fish the diameter can be reduced.

Perch fishing hook

Not one, not two, but 5 hooks. It is the peculiar trait. A colored plastic tube, usually red, is fixed on each.

Throw the coin box in the middle of (small bleaks, red tails etc.) and wait for the little ones to bite.

They will come running, making small calls with the rod .

The gleam of the hooked fish will attract predators : if they make a sudden attack in the area.

Spinning fishing for perch

In the summer, the perch are stationed at various depths. And that’s why spinning them is exciting.

As a first step, we take the rotating baits : indicated a Panther Martin Size 4, with silver headstock and red or even yellow body. And Mepps (or Ilba) Size 2 with silver or golden headstock.

However, in recent years it has spread on the market lures with spinning custom, as minnow, jerk, crank, lipless and grub . In addition, baits dedicated to light games find a massive appeal. Lightweight, they always reserve surprises. On a boat, the launch must be performed from the center of the lake in the direction of reeds.

Natural bait for perch fishing

As an omnivorous predator, royal perch likes worms and maggots. It gives its best in the autumn season. But it should also be pointed out that situations of heavy humidity feed juicy catches, both from the boat and from the shore.

Perch fishing with live fish

Modus operandi that entices several fishermen. The greedy perch leaves for the small fish. And, taking the bait, he swallows it on the spot, returning to his lair. Except then fall to the bottom.

The scene is bloody, but, in a sense, spectacular. To challenge the perch to the best, first of all, a light-action rod is needed: indicatively, it must weigh between 1 and 10 grams, with a length of 1.80 / 2.10 meters.

Therefore fit a spinning reel of size 1500-2000, with 0.18 on the reel. Nylon and braided are equally valid options: it depends on the fisherman. Broadly speaking, the nylon dichroic, neutral colors, is welcome in less demanding trips.

While in order to grab medium-large perch, perhaps joined by trout perch in environments bristling with obstacles, the braided line wins.

In support crank from 3-5 cm . This expression identifies the artificial baits that reproduce the fodder fish as features. In order to avoid getting stuck on the bottom, and to quickly reach greater depths, it contains a pallet as big as dimensions.

Equally valuable are the rotating spoons , already mentioned above: sizes 1, 2 and 3 are more than good.

A prudent precaution is to replace the treble hooks with barbless models : they preserve the mouthparts of the fish. At the same time they facilitate the release of the prey and respect the perch.

Drop shotting for perch

It is conceived and studied to capture the bass . But it also lends itself perfectly to royal perch. Compared to those used on the shore, it provides for shortened rods. To mount them correctly, one or two hooks are tied to the main line, fixing the lead to the lower end.

At the edge of the boat , he let down the lead in deep . In the meantime continue to slightly raise the frame and the baits, resuming contact with the bottom.

During the process, alternate pauses, tremors and ups and downs. In eating, you usually have to wait a few moments before shoeing. But every season and every place has unique characteristics.

The precise timing of the via gear therefore varies, also in relation to the supervised spot .

Jigging for perch

Profit vertically or with long casts. The artificial bait must touch the water, to then recover the excess pole.

Then the artificial is allowed to descend into depth. High guard, however, always: you can also eat when you go down. With the bait reaching the bottom, the wire will go slightly out of bounds. And from here the game will start.

Several fishermen go to work with the reel. Alternate half a turn (or one turn at most) of the reel and breaks. Or the tip. Raised, the artificial bait is detached vertically from the bottom: to go back up, just take a break. If there is poor sensitivity of the bait on the bottom increase the weight of the head.

The end lines , attached with one or more armrests, give satisfaction in fishing vertically, on obstacles. Where, through lead, they reach the seabed, and then bring the jig back to the surface, trying to probe all the layers of water nearby.

The main line can otherwise be based on a terminal or flourish. To be connected directly to the main line with a triple swivel.

Then a sinker , inserted there, drags it in depth and is left free. It is a transversal search, aimed at identifying fish in the adjacent water layers.

Ledgering in perch fishing

The static bite is also capable of arousing interest in real perch. To take it you need a rod from 3.60 to 3.90 meters, with maximum action included in the range 60/80 grams.

The tops exhibit a colorful painting. They highlight the fish touches, placing emphasis also on the less marked ones. Mount a reel of size 2000/3000 and load it with 0.16 on the reel . Along the beam insert an anti-tangle stopped by a bead and swivel.

A 30-40 cm terminal with hook no.12 short-stemmed triggers two maggots . There is a slingshot to feed in the chosen area. Stuff it with corn, maggots and a splash of red mash: it will give a brownish mix. Before fishing try with some preventive launch.

Have a successful perch fishing trip!