The Shimano Stradic is one of the best spinning reels ever made, and it has developed a cult like following of fans. It is simply a well-built reel that is not only smooth but extremely durable. If there is one complaint regarding the Stradic it is the price, at close to $200 it is a … Read more
Welcome to my review comparing two of the best metal body spinning reels that are available in sizes suitable for trout and steelhead. In this review, for the most part, I will be comparing the smallest sizes, these being the Penn Battle III 1000 and the Daiwa BG BG1500. While the emphasis, is on the … Read more
Take a glance at the hook section of any fishing store and it quickly becomes apparent that fishing hooks are sold in many different colors. Some examples include black, silver, gold, red, and bronze, I have even seen fancy dual-color hooks and various exotic shades. So hooks come in many colors. Does it matter? Do … Read more
Simple question, is it safe or even sensible to wear insulated jackets, whether it’s synthetic or down while wading or fishing for trout? Many people are afraid to wear insulated jackets, especially around water. They try their hardest to avoid getting it wet. There is a belief that once wet, down quickly collapses in on … Read more
I recently had to decide between buying a new 4wd vehicle, or just a more basic hatchback. When I looked at things from a more sensible perspective, I only really need 4wd ability to access a handful of remote fishing locations, and maybe the occasional hiking trailhead or skifield. Realistically, 99% of my driving is … Read more
Many fishermen do not know that fly lines should be clean. They then start to complain when there three month old floating line starts to sink. I use to think to myself, “But, my line gets washed every time I cast it into a crystal clear spring creek or alpine brook”. I do not have … Read more
What is the best line type when fishing for trout, how does braid compare with monofilament? Does the choice even matter? In the chart below, I have highlighted the key differences. In the next part of the article, I will discuss why each of these points may or may not matter. Braid Floats Does not … Read more
Spoons and spinners must be among the most popular hard body trout lures, and the reason is simple. They catch trout and they catch them consistently. I always consider it a good idea to have both types of lures when fishing because a trout’s preference can easily change hour from to hour, day to day. … Read more
Quite a common sentiment is that the fly line is more important than the rod. Hence it is more important to spend more money on the line than on the rod. It is a sentiment I broadly agree with, and have probably even suggested doing exactly that in other articles. But, at the same time, … Read more
Penn is one of the biggest names in offshore reels, they built their reputation on classics like the Senator, International, and the Spinfisher. These are all heavy duty reels designed for catching powerful fighting fish in the salt. So whether you are a Penn loyalist, or just want to try something a little different, what … Read more