Tournament Bass Fishing Tips

Largemouth bass image by patrimonio designs from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Bass fishing tournament trails are available across the U.S. and offer anglers an opportunity to travel to different regions to fish freshwater and saltwater sources. Check out the tournament schedule at a local tournament organization and find out the dates and times, body of water and types of tournament--for example, points or invitation--that are available. Following tips on equipment and technique can help you perform well at tournaments.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Choose the most appropriate size when selecting a tournament boat. The larger the boat, the higher the fuel costs. Select a small boat that is strong enough to run big-water sources.

Step 2

Reduce gas costs by filling up before you arrive to the bass fishing tournament. Fuel prices at a marina are invariably more costly than the prices charged by a local gas station. Fill up a few miles from the marina, and you could save 20 to 30 cents per gallon, according to BassEast.com.

Step 3

Carry the proper gear. If you are traveling to a different city to participate in a bass-fishing tournament, expect weather changes from day to night, regardless of the season. Pack summer favorites, such as short sleeve shirts and shorts, for high temperatures, and winter necessities--such thermals, heavy socks, sweaters and gloves--for low temperatures. Pack rain gear, waterproof boots, sunglasses and sun block for protection from the elements.

Step 4

Save time and money by carrying your own tools, electrical wire and duct tape. Doing so will save you from having to purchase these items at a higher cost at a marina.

Step 5

Purchase fishing hooks, lures and fishing line in bulk. Ration your supply out over the year as you compete in various tournaments. Fishing tackle--including 10-lb. to 50-lb. test line, and 1 and 2 size hooks--are available in bulk online and at local fishing tackles stores.

Step 6

Fish with a good blend of soft plastic lures, subsurface plugs--including crankbait, minnowbaits and jerkbaits--and jigs. Fish with soft plastic lures when fishing for largemouth and smallmouth and when fishing in weeds and grass, brush or laydowns. Opt for jigs when fishing deep, shallow waters or near trees and rock. Rig your line with subsurface plugs when fishing at any intermediary depth between the surface and the bottom.

Step 7

Fish spots near brush and heavy cover, as well as open water spots where bottom fishing is possible.

Tips & Warnings

Bass fishing tournaments may impose entry requirements related to skill level.

Some states, such as Florida, provide largemouth bass tournament exemptions for fishing permits.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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