’Tis the season…for bucketheads.
Apologies to my fly-fishing setup, but it’s going to take a back seat for a while while I get out and chase largemouth bass. I’ll do a separate article on the culture of bass fishing, because that’s a whole world unto itself. Today is about gear.
One of the great things about bass fishing gear is that it’s nowhere near as complicated as trout fishing. No waders. No boots. No technical layering systems. And the gear fits into a box that’s smaller than the cooler you’re hauling along for the ride.
Bass fishing is less about equipment and more about the atmosphere: sunscreen, bug spray, cold drinks, and good tunes playing while you idle along the shoreline.
Getting set up isn’t some massive mountain to climb. In fact, it’s pretty straightforward.
Here’s a good baseline setup of what I like to use:
From Top Left:
1. Tilley Airflo Hat: Don’t scoff…these are a lifesaver. That mid-day sun can get pretty tough. Protect ya neck (and face, etc.)
2. Rapala X-Rap Prop Topwater Lure: Tell me there’s something better than largemouth hitting topwater and I’ll tell you are a liar.
3. Zoom Ol Monster 10.5″ Worms: I love fishing all sorts of plastics, but these Ol’ Monsters are my go-to. I set them up with a 1/16th bullet weight and a 3/0 offset hook and it’s a bank buster. Not the most technical fishing, but the most fun.
4. Costa Ferg Sunglasses: I talk a lot about dressy sunglasses – specifically the non-sports versions, but there is absolutely a time and place. I opt for the bigger frames, and actually the plastic lenses (over glass). Might not be the most popular opinion, but I like the lighter weight.
5. Duck Camp Lightweight Fishing Shirt: These have become my go-to. I love the fit and the function…not too wide but enough room for doing work.
6. Abu Garcia Zata Low Profile Baitcaster Combo: I bought a Zata baitcaster and and the spinning reel a couple of years ago, and have been extremely happy. Great weight and balance, and the price point is good for what you get. Don’t sleep on combos…especially for us weekender fishermen.
7. Plano Guide Tackle Bag: Plano does such good work. A fantastic price point for functional storage. Their guide series Tackle Bags are so great. These are their second generation (I have the first gen green version), and they are only getting better.
8. Hatch Nomad 2 Pliers: Hear me out: I’ve tried the $20 pliers. I’ve tried teh $50 and $100 pliers. They are all trash. They rust within a year, and the blade for cutting braid stays sharp for about two hours. I made the investment in these Hatch pliers four years ago, and only wish I’d done it earlier. They are FANTASTIC on the boat. ZERO worry. I’m due to give them a good cleaning, but the blades are still sharp, and the belt pouch is good and broken in.
9. Turtlebox Ranger: The perfect accessory for chasing bucketheads. A little Alan Jackson…a little Randy Travis…yessir.
10. Diawa BG2000 Spinning Reel: The adult version of the Zebco 33. Diawa has been producing the ‘Black Gold’ series forever, and for good reason. If you are going to get one spinning reel, this is it. I set mine up with 20lb braid and a 10lb fluro leader, and run all sorts of plastics. I love it.
11. Patagonia Stand Up Shorts: Sure you can get some new ones, but an old pair from eBay is a good way to go too.
12. Bedrock Cairn Sandals: I love Chacos, and wear mine a lot, but I’m seriously into these Bedrock sandals. They have a thinner, lighter footbed and the look is much more Wook. I’m totally down.
13. Rugged Road 25 Cooler: I have the 45…and let me assure you: once you go Rugged Road, you don’t go back. They are light, functional, and a much better price point. High ROI.
Honorable mentions (aka no room on the visual):
- Rising Lunker Net – I love this one. Great, and sturdy. Worth the money.
- Poncho Shirts – The OG fishing shirt that doesn’t look like a fishing shirt. I go solids and plaids.
- Anorak Rain Jacket – I keep an anorak packed…just in case. This option from LL Bean is just right. The kangaroo pocket is a lifesaver.
I’m sure there’s more…what did I miss?
