Bass fishing is a sport that is gaining in popularity. Perhaps you would like to try out this sport, but when you go to the sporting goods store, you are overwhelmed by the vast variety of equipment for sale. In addition, there is a price range for every budget. Just what do you really need?
Generally, rods and reels are sold separately. However, you can also buy them together. Bass are strong fish, and you want a rod that will be flexible, yet durable. So, a good choice would be a 6 1/2- to 7-foot long, medium heavy to heavy rod. As you look over the selection of rods in the store, try out a few by holding them in your hands to get a feel for the heft of the pole. You can also order rods and reels through catalogs or online, but if you are just starting out, you should try a few different rods in a store. Once you figure out what kind of rod works best for you, then you can order one from a catalog or online.
The next item you need is a reel. An easy reel for beginners is a spinning reel. A spinning reel is an open-faced fishing reel with a bail. You flip the bail while holding the line and cast the bait. For an intermediate fisherman, try a baitcaster reel. A baitcaster reel differs from a spinning reel in that it has a thumb bar in the back instead of a bail. The spool of line is right at your thumb, which gives better control of your line as you make each cast. A baitcaster reel is versatile, allowing more power to draw a fish out of cover once it takes the bait, and it also allows you to present the lure very quietly into the water.
A third necessity is fishing line. Fishing line comes in a wide variety of brand names and colors, such as green, clear, clear blue flourescent, and camouflage. Fishing line also comes in a wide variety of weights, but for bass fishing, 10- to 20-lb. test line is the best choice. Each fisherman will have his or her favorite colors, weights, and styles to use, depending on the condition of the water he or she is fishing. For someone new to the sport, try the clear blue flourescent color. This color disappears under the water, but you can still see the line above the water. You will be able to see the strike easier since you can see the line.
The last item you will need is tackle. For a beginner, try using plastic worms and spinner baits. The variety of baits is definitely overwhelming, but you do not have to buy a whole lot of tackle as you begin to fish. Start out with red shad and blue fleck colors of plastic worms, and 1/4-oz. to 3/8 oz. white or white-chartreuse spinner baits with colorado or willow leaf blades. These colors are good for all water conditions.
The best equipment for bass fishing are the simplest: a rod, reel, line, and tackle. Most state parks have boats for rent, and you can always just fish from the bank. Don't forget your sunscreen!
