Flipping mats, part 2
Greg HackneyMy reel choice is pretty simple. I use a high-speed, 7.3:1 gear ratio model, Quantum SHD200HPT. The thing with the really high gear ratio is that I can get the...
Capitalize on the shad spawn
Kevin VanDamThe shad spawn is kicking in across the south, including here at Wheeler Lake where the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Elite event is underway. It’s a pretty cool phenomenon...
‘…the worst day of my professional life.’ – Matt Reed
Don Barone“Half my life is in books’ written pages…” Dateline: Your Inner Voice “Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.”~Henry David Thoreau “You okay?” Elite angler Matt...
The importance of confidence
Alton JonesIt always feels really good coming off a good tournament performance like my 18th-place finish at last week’s Elite Series event on Bull Shoals and Norfork, but it’s even more...
How I’ll fish Lake Wheeler
Brandon LesterWe’re back at it again this week with stop No. 4 of the Elite Series here on Lake Wheeler in Decatur, Ala. Before I get into what I think will...
Flipping mats, part 1
Greg HackneyFlipping mats is an important part of being a complete bass angler. Before we get into tackle and technique, though, we need to talk a little about what a mat...
Prop basics, part 2
John CrewsIn my last column we talked about the mechanics of props. This time we’ll talk about issues related to performance and safety. The elevation at which you run your boat...
My goals for the 2016 season
Gerald SwindleGoals are a huge part of being a successful professional angler. Setting goals and achieving them is something we as pros all strive for. Personally, I set goals and “focus...
Catch bigger bass in the postspawn
Ish MonroeIf you want to catch bigger bass during the postspawn, go with a topwater lure. It’s by far the most reliable way to get the big ones, and they are...
Dealing with spawning dilemmas
Kevin VanDamOne of the confusing issues anglers face in spring is dealing with bass in all phases of the spawn. Not all bass spawn at the same time, of course, but...