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Bass fishing is an adventurous sport and most anglers pursue it for the challenge and adrenaline rush that it provides. However, if you do not know how to rig up a fishing pole for bass, you might be missing out on some fun, and adventure.
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How to Rig up a Fishing Pole for Bass
Setting up a fishing pole for bass is not as complicated as many entry-level anglers may believe. It is a simple process, however, an essential step in getting closer to catching some big fish in the lake, or river. Many of you might want to improve this technique, while some beginners will get a great start.
Setting up a Bass Fishing Pole
When you make up your mind that this year you will be catching some fierce, and fighting bass, the first step will be to head out and prepare the fishing rig. A fishing rig is all the gear and essential tools that you will require for the sport. This includes a fishing rod, line, hooks, and lures to attract bass.
Rod and Reel for Bass
The right combination of fishing rods and reels is the first step in collecting bass fishing rigs. A good spinning rod or a bait casting rod will be good for anglers who might want to catch different types of fish apart from a bass. However, if you want, you can even opt for a fly fishing rod, which is more specific for bass.
The Fishing Rod
The right length for a bass fishing rod, according to the depth and width of the lake or reservoir where you will fish is between six to eight feet. Select a reliable material such as composite glass and carbon rod that can take the energetic fight while ensuring flexibility and durability.
Bait casting rods and reels will give anglers the ability to use heavier lures. This combination is more suitable for anglers who have prior experience with spinning rods. Once you know how to use a bait casting rod, you can master the use of heavier lures in a short time.
Spinning Rods
Spinning rods for bass will require minimal setup and anglers find it to be an easier choice. The appropriate length of this kind of pole is between six to eight feet. However, the anglers can select the rod according to their requirements.
With this kind of device, you will need a spinning reel as they are most compatible. Bass anglers can use a heavier reel if they aim to catch big fish. If you are going fishing in a small lake, a light fishing line will suffice.
Bait Casting Rods
This kind of fishing pole is slightly advanced and provides more precision and accuracy. If you are a new angler, you might want to experience fishing with a spinning rod first. However, catching big fish in a big lake will require a longer line and a longer rod.
With this kind of equipment, setup is a little complicated and many seasoned anglers also get confused. The upper end of the pole provides space for attaching a compatible reel. These fishing poles are suitable for various big fish apart from bass as well.
The Line
Monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon lines are the primary types of lines used for various fish species. For bass, you can use any of these lines as each of them offers various benefits. Select the line according to a few bass fishing factors:
- The distance at which you cast the line,
- The size of the fish you aim to catch,
- The size of the lake where you fish, and
- Visibility of the line in the water.
If you are going bass fishing in the early hours of the day when the light is dim, a braided line will be good because you can catch bigger fish with this sturdy line, while the lower visibility will keep bass from noticing it.
The Reel Load
Loading the reel is an essential part of rigging up a fishing pole for bass as you have to wind the line and understand which way the reel moves so that you can prepare your rod for some action. Whether you use a clockwise or an anti-clockwise reel, wind the line and pass it through the guides and let it hang as much as you will require.
You can cut off the extra length and attach a leader, swivel, and lure. Loading the reel may be slightly technical for a few entry-level anglers because of the amount of line you must use, and ensuring that it does not tangle and becomes difficult to wind and release when the fish gets hooked.
However, some careful loading can ensure that you will not face any difficulty. You can even test the spool by turning it a few times and then winding it back to see that the line moves without any hindrance. If the line gets tangled on the spool, you will have to wind it again, starting from the outer circle and moving in as you wind.
Ensuring a Smooth Line
If you are setting up the reel for the first time, following simpler steps will ensure that the line is smooth and there will be no unwanted issues like tangles or inability to release more line when you catch bass. Each step will ensure that when you get a big fish hooked, you will be able to pull it towards the boat.
- Before winding the line, twist the wheel to see if it is anticlockwise or clockwise.
- Remove any old fishing lines from the spool.
- Lead the lines through the guides around the wheel. This helps in keeping the line balanced.
- Begin winding the reel from the outer circle, and keep circling it inwards until the spool is covered. Every layer of the line you wind must move inwards from the outer circle.
- Keep loading the line while ensuring that you do not twist it.
- Pass the line through the guides on the rod, and let the end hang.
- Do not overload the spool as that can also cause tangling.
Adding Lures and Hooks
There are numerous kinds of plastic lures, rubber worms, and even live bait that can make your bass fishing adventure an amazing experience. The first tip is to use live bait that bass feeds on or to use plastic lures that imitate the fish that bass eat.
You can select some of the best fishing lures like crayfish, worms, jigs, and topwater lures available at tackle shops. These lures are easy to string in the line, and some of them have hooks attached. However, if you use live bait, you can use a conventional hook at the end of the line and get some adventure going.
Tying the Hook
There are numerous knots that can be used for the various kinds of lines. Again, these knots require some practice and if you have been fishing for some time, you would be knowing a few knots. In case you are new to this, practice a few fundamental knot styles such as Palomar knot, or the Nanofil knot.
Every Step Counts
When you are rigging up a fishing pole for bass, every piece of equipment is essential. Anglers who are new to bass fishing often feel that they will enjoy the sport because bass gives a good fight when they get caught. However, what makes the sport more enjoyable is when you are fully prepared.
Conclusion
Bass anglers should know how to rig up a fishing pole for bass so that they are fully equipped to combat the feisty fish when it moves around and exerts force on the rod after getting hooked. The right equipment is an integral part of the fishing adventure.