TheMinimalistFisherman

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 2nd week of April. Small water usually warms up before large water. This is especially true if you can find some small lakes and ponds with large shallow bays. This water warms especially fast, and can help warm the overall temperature and cause activity to increase sooner than what you may find on larger bodies of water. That was what we were testing on this day, and we caught our first fish of 2024. (We also mapped the bottom using our Deeper Pro Sonar and found out the max depth was right around 10' and the surface water temp was 58°.) Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #bankfishing #largemouthbass :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Storm Wildeye Swim Shad: https://minimalistfishing.com/Wildeye Mustad Grip-Pin Hooks: https://minimalistfishing.com/GripPinEWG Z-Man Hula Stick: https://minimalistfishing.com/ZManHulaStickZ Strike King Ocho: https://minimalistfishing.com/StrikeKingOcho Dr. Juice: https://minimalistfishing.com/DrJuice Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/J-Braid Leader: https://minimalistfishing.com/RedLabel :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:16 - [ Fishing Minocqua w/ 6 lb Mono ] 00:36 - [ 1. Conditions / Wisconsin Bass Fishing ] 01:59 - [ 2. Shooting to the Deep Weed Edge ] 03:36 - [ 3. Rock Bass ALWAYS Bite ] 04:33 - [ 4. BIG Fish (and NO NET!) on 6 lb Mono ] 08:07 - [ 5. Nice Smallmouth for the Wifey ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 3rd week of July. After 2 days of TOUGH FISHING, we were able to regroup and get some quality bites fishing the simple, effective techniques: jigs with MEAT (leeches) and some soft plastics, on LIGHT LINE. Water temps had increased to near 80° after a few weeks in the 70s. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #wisconsin #wisconsinfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Weedless Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/NorthlandWeedlessJig Ball Head Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/BallHeadJig Live Bait Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/LiveBaitJig Dr. Juice: https://minimalistfishing.com/DrJuice Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/TrileneMono :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:16 - [ Fishing Minocqua w/ 6 lb Mono ] 00:36 - [ 1. Conditions / Wisconsin Bass Fishing ] 01:59 - [ 2. Shooting to the Deep Weed Edge ] 03:36 - [ 3. Rock Bass ALWAYS Bite ] 04:33 - [ 4. BIG Fish (and NO NET!) on 6 lb Mono ] 08:07 - [ 5. Nice Smallmouth for the Wifey ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 1st week of June. We caught smallmouth bass in the morning using active topwater techniques, but then the bite slowed and we decided to go sub-surface. A finesse football head jig with Cabin Creek Salty Spider Parts was just the ticket... and another little bait made an appearance as well... Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #creekfishing #illinoisfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Football Jig: https://minimalistfishing.com/FootballJig Ned Ocho: https://minimalistfishing.com/NedOcho Grip-Pin Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/GripPinJig Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Grinding Pools for Smallmouth Bass ] 00:48 - [ 1. Conditions / Midwest Creek Fishing ] 01:26 - [ 2. Pool 1 ] 05:26 - [ 3. Dogwood Seeds Floating By ] 06:12 - [ 4. Pool 2 ] 07:28 - [ 5. Pool 3 ] 08:51 - [ 6. Cabin Creek Salty Spider Parts ] 09:27 - [ 7. Pool 4 ] 11:35 - [ 8. Ned Ocho (A Creek Fishing Secret Weapon) ] 12:20 - [ 9. Good Bass & Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 1st week of June. We caught smallmouth bass using active topwater techniques in the morning, and jigs with different trailers in the early afternoon. The water was slightly murky from recent rain, but the bass hit topwater really, really well! Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #creekfishing #illinoisfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Megabass Pop-X: https://minimalistfishing.com/MegabassPopX Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Pool Jumping for Bass ] 00:53 - [ 1. Conditions / Midwest Kayak Fishing ] 01:31 - [ 2. Pool 1 ] 05:26 - [ 3. Pool 2 ] 09:53 - [ 4. Pool 3 ] 11:52 - [ 5. First Big Smallmouth of the Year ] 14:16 - [ 6. Pool 4 ] 18:05 - [ 7. Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 4th week of June. We caught largemouth bass from the bank in hot weather on both topwater and sub-surface... with the same presentation. The Pop 'n Drop is simple to use - and worth a look: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/the-pop-n-drop-rig-topwater-finesse-fishing/ Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #bankfishing #illinoisfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Popper Option 1: https://minimalistfishing.com/BubblePopper Popper Option 2: https://minimalistfishing.com/PoppingFrog Ocho: https://minimalistfishing.com/StrikeKingOcho Wacky Hooks: https://minimalistfishing.com/VMCWackyHooks Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Bass Fishing Tips for Midwest City Lakes ] 00:22 - [ 1. Conditions / Midwest Bass Fishing ] 01:21 - [ 2. Nice Topwater Largemouth ] 03:27 - [ 3. Topwater Again ] 04:07 - [ 4. Tips for MORE BASS ] 07:21 - [ 5. Last Bass & Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 3rd week of June. We caught smallmouth bass using active topwater techniques in a murky creek in Illinois. I did find out later I was trespassing but... it really was accidental... Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #creekfishing #illinoisfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Z-Man Finesse FrogZ: https://minimalistfishing.com/FinesseFrogZ Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ 2 Topwater Options for Midwest Creek Fishing ] 00:23 - [ 1. Conditions / Midwest Creek Fishing ] 01:07 - [ 2. Nice Topwater Smallmouth ] 03:41 - [ 3. StrikePro Hunchback ] 04:03 - [ 4. Bigger Smallmouth Bass ] 09:05 - [ 5. Hiding from a Tractor?! ] 10:46 - [ 6. Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the 2nd week of July. We caught smallmouth bass using easy bread 'n butter techniques at a depth we were not expecting to be productive. Once we found them - and their FOOD - it was lights out! This was full on summer fishing with water temps around 76.5°. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #wisconsin #wisconsinfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Hair Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/KalinsMarabou Live Bait Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/LiveBaitJig Dr. Juice: https://minimalistfishing.com/DrJuice Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:12 - [ A Must-Have Bass Fishing Bait ] 00:24 - [ 1. Conditions / Wisconsin Bass Fishing ] 02:05 - [ 2. Underwater Cover ] 02:23 - [ 3. BIG Smallmouth Bass! ] 04:49 - [ 4. Lindy Live Bait Jig ] 05:40 - [ 5. Bait Ball Underwater ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the fourth week of May. We caught largemouth bass and panfish while exploring a new, beautiful (and extremely clear!) body of water in Illinois. With 68° water we were probably still in a post-spawn period... and some males hanging around beds seems to point to that as well. MUCH better bite than 3 days ago, and less than a mile away from the previous lake! Link to The F4 Rig: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/the-f4-rig-flexible-finesse-fluke-fishing/ More Info: The F4 Rig: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/is-the-f4-rig-different-than-the-california-rig-for-bass-fishing/ Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #kayak #kayakfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Z-Man Hula Sticks: https://minimalistfishing.com/ZManHulaStickZ Wacky Hooks: https://minimalistfishing.com/VMCWackyHooks Dr. Juice: https://minimalistfishing.com/DrJuice Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ The BEST RIG for FISHING CHARA ALGAE in a Kayak ] 01:07 - [ 1. Conditions / The F4 Rig ] 02:56 - [ 2. F4 Rig QUALITY BASS ] 04:21 - [ 3. Important Wacky Rig Tip ] 05:21 - [ 4. F4 Rig - Another Quality Bass ] 07:00 - [ 5. F4 Rig - Strikes Again! ] 07:59 - [ 6. Chara Algae Underwater ] 09:55 - [ 7. Cottonwood Fluff ] 10:53 - [ 8. Big JUMP! ] 14:10 - [ 8. Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the fourth week of May. We caught largemouth bass and panfish while exploring a new, beautiful (and extremely clear!) body of water in Illinois. With 68° water we were probably still in a post-spawn period... and some males hanging around beds seems to point to that as well. MUCH better bite than 3 days ago, and less than a mile away from the previous lake! Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #kayak #kayakfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Megabass Pop-X: https://minimalistfishing.com/MegabassPopX Z-Man Slim SwimZ: https://minimalistfishing.com/SlimSwimZ Pro-V Jigs: https://minimalistfishing.com/Pro-VNedJig Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Illinois Topwater Bass Fishing in the Kayak ] 00:42 - [ 1. Conditions ] 01:56 - [ 2. More Topwater Strikes on the Pop-X ] 03:23 - [ 3. The Megabass Pop-X Up Close ] 08:12 - [ 4. Finding Remote Areas to Fish ] 09:58 - [ 5. Presentation Change: Go Subsurface! ] 11:08 - [ 6. Big Bass on the Slim SwimZ! ] 17:52 - [ 7. Beds in the Steep Chara Algae ] 21:36 - [ 8. Summary of the Day ]

The Minimalist Fisherman: In the Field focuses on bass fishing tips and techniques that will help you catch more fish all throughout the Midwest. Everything we write about - we test. If it's good - we keep it. If it's not - we minimize it! This outing took place the fourth week of May. We caught largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and discussed how to make the most of a post spawn, low-water situation. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #jonboat #tinyboat :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Megabass Pop-X: https://minimalistfishing.com/MegabassPopX Yum Dingers: https://minimalistfishing.com/YumDingers Ocho: https://minimalistfishing.com/StrikeKingOcho Braid: https://minimalistfishing.com/X9 Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx Wacky Hooks: https://minimalistfishing.com/VMCWackyHooks :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ The Minimalist Fisherman: In The Field (formerly Stars & Bars Fishing) is an in-the-field fishing vlog by AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. "If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period." :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Illinois Post Spawn Low-Water Bass Fishing ] 00:47 - [ 1. Conditions ] 02:16 - [ 2. Make the Most of the Day ] 05:17 - [ 3. Largemouth Bass on Dinger / Wacky ] 07:24 - [ 4. Smallmouth Bass on a Z-Man EZ Tube / Pro Bullet ] 11:24 - [ 5. Largemouth Bass on Dinger / Wacky ] 20:15 - [ 6. Summary of the Day ]

I recently picked up a few rod holders from a company called Lunker Trail. I have no affiliation with this company, and this is an unbiased review of their product - along with a detailed rundown of how I'm installing it on my jon boat. It's been a great upgrade so far! Lunker Trail sells this product at a reasonable price and they shipped it FAST - I have been very impressed with them so far. Check out the full review over at The Minimalist Fisherman website. You can also visit Lunker Trail here: https://lunkertrail.com/ Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. https://theminimalistfisherman.com/ For more in-the-field fishing videos: @StarsBarsFishing

I almost didn't make this video because... well... LOOK AT ME. I'm a grotesque mess, and this infection (or whatever it is) came as a direct result of not being careful while fishing shallow, WARM, bacteria-loaded mucky ponds. But I mean... how can you say no when the bass are there, and willing to bite? You can't. And the good news is that you don't have to - but you better take these precautions RIGHT NOW, to protect yourself and your family. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. https://theminimalistfisherman.com/ For more in-the-field fishing videos go to: https://www.youtube.com/@StarsBarsFishing

Taking Kids Fishing: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/fishing-with-kids-let-them-fail/ A while back I started a routine with my sons: once every week, one of them gets to pick something that we go do together. It can be a bike ride, a hike, or - maybe not surprisingly - a fishing trip. When they select the latter, I try to set them up with a presentation that catches fish, but one of the things you're always battling, is the 'ol attention span. You've fished with kids. You know. This is the struggle. The presentation we used in this video was simple - a bobber, a stickbait, and a wacky hook. We also made sure to use this presentation in the spring, when there was a lot of shallow activity. THIS IS IMPORTANT, because if there is TOO much WAITING for the kids... you'll jump straight to snack time. Fortunately in this video, my son shows how effective this is, catching 3 fish in less than 75 minutes, and all three were darn good fish! Try it out - and let me know how it goes! This outing took place the third week of May. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #takeakidfishing #fishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Yum Dinger: https://minimalistfishing.com/YumDingers Strike King Ocho: https://minimalistfishing.com/StrikeKingOcho Hooks: https://minimalistfishing.com/Fusion19WeedlessWacky Line: https://minimalistfishing.com/X9 Leader: https://minimalistfishing.com/Invizx :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Taking Young Kids Fishing for LUNKERS ] 00:25 - [ 1. Picking Your Stickbait ] 00:41 - [ 2. Conditions & Rig Summary ] 03:01 - [ 3. Making an Adjustment ] 03:21 - [ 4. Fish #1 & #2 ] 05:52 - [ 5. Fish Like Edges! & 3rd Fish ]

After a few weeks of suburban pond fishing, it was time to get out and away from the world a bit... there is a really nice little SFWA not too far from me, with a few little lakes that are not accessible by jon boat... but they looked PERFECT for the kayak. One of our 2023 goals was to find some new, remote areas to fish - and the search continues. Here, during the third week of May, we explored these new Illinois lakes and made contact with some good fish. Good enough that a return trip is not optional - it's mandatory! This outing took place the third week of May. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #kayakfishing #pitfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Yum Dingers: https://bit.ly/YumDingers Strike King Ocho: https://amzn.to/3MeygWF Berkley Fusion19 Weedless Wacky: https://amzn.to/3x70IRx Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Kayak Fishing New Lakes in Illinois ] 00:08 - [ 1. Conditions ] 00:36 - [ 2. Water Clarity ] 01:31 - [ 3. Field Notes ] 02:43 - [ 4. Second Presentation ] 03:28 - [ 5. First Fish of the Day ] 05:12 - [ 6. Why Fish With O-Rings? ] 18:56 - [ 7. Biggest Fish of the Day ]

Suburban ponds are cool and all, but they get old fast. Screaming kids, chatty folks, barking dogs... it's all fine, but sometimes you just want to focus on the sounds of nature and catching some fish. One of our 2023 goals was to find some new, remote areas to fish - so it's time to get exploring. During the second week of May, I came across some old notes from last year. A fellow bank fisherman had mentioned a pond tucked way, way off the beaten path. After fishing it for a few minutes... I realized It wasn't just me and the bass... As the weather warms more, we'll head out to larger bodies of water. They're still a little cool... and besides... in these warm little ponds, the bite is DANG GOOD! This outing took place the second week of May. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #bankfishing #pondfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Strike Pro Humpback Wakebait Yum Dingers: https://bit.ly/YumDingers Strike King Ocho: https://amzn.to/3MeygWF Berkley Fusion19 Weedless Wacky: https://amzn.to/3x70IRx Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Fishing at Snapping Turtle Pond ] 00:58 - [ 1. Conditions ] 03:05 - [ 2. Snapping Turtle #1 ] 05:19 - [ 3. Snapping Turtle #2 ] 05:48 - [ 4. Second Presentation ] 10:23 - [ 5. Biggest Fish of the Day ] 12:28 - [ 6. Third Presentation ]

The 2023 season has started - and it will be my last full season in the Land of Lincoln. The goal this year is to catch 400 bass - that might not seem like a lot to guides and full-time anglers, but to those of us that work two jobs while raising several boys and trying to be a good husband... well, it's a LOT. Still - you gotta do what you can with what you got! Hitting ponds and small city lakes early can be a lot of fun - these small bodies of water usually heat up and get active well before larger lakes in the state, and this means the bass will be shallow, allowing you to catch them from the bank. Here's a method that works... have fun with it. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #bankfishing #pondfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Strike King Ocho: https://amzn.to/3MeygWF Berkley Fusion19 Weedless Wacky: https://amzn.to/3x70IRx Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Midwest Pond Hoppin' ] 00:57 - [ 1. Conditions ] 02:10 - [ 2. Pros & Cons of Finesse Hooks ] 03:53 - [ 3. Should I Use an O-Ring with Stickbaits? ] 07:34 - [ 4. Let's Check Another Pond ] 13:32 - [ 5. Summary & Parking Lot Friends ]

Part 1: https://youtu.be/xghkEwZPi64 I love fishing creeks. 4 years ago when I started The Minimalist Fisherman, I had NO idea what I was missing - in terms of both bank fishing local lakes, and wading local creeks. As soon as I ventured out of my comfort zone, a whole world of opportunities seemed to spring up out of nowhere, which led to a LOT of really great memories. Here are a few I'd like to share with you... Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #F4Rig #creekfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Berkley Powerbait Minnow: https://amzn.to/41OoXld Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Berkley Minnow Fishing a Creek in 100° Heat (HOT!) ] 00:39 - [ 1. Conditions ] 03:48 - [ 2. Moving Up to Another Pocket ] 07:45 - [ 3. Forage Example ] 09:56 - [ 4. What Bit This Fish?! ]

I love fishing creeks. 4 years ago when I started The Minimalist Fisherman, I had NO idea what I was missing - in terms of both bank fishing local lakes, and wading local creeks. As soon as I ventured out of my comfort zone, a whole world of opportunities seemed to spring up out of nowhere, which led to a LOT of really great memories. Here are a few I'd like to share with you... time to sharpen up them jerkbait hooks! Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #rapala #creekfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Rapala RipStop: https://bit.ly/RipStopJerkbait Rebel Jointed Minnow: https://amzn.to/3nwhI32 Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Jerkbait Fishing a Creek in 100° Heat (HOT!) ] 00:33 - [ 1. Conditions ] 08:14 - [ 2. Snake & Switch to the RipStop ] 14:30 - [ 3. Summary & Next Steps ]

Overcast days can go one way or another... sometimes the topwater bite heats up... other days, it can be tough. On this warm Illinois morning, it was game on. It was So warm in fact... after a few hours I decided to take a little swim, much to the amusement of everyone walking around the shoreline... The F4 Rig came into play before the Booyah Pad Crasher Jr. took over, along with THE BEST STICKBAIT RIG FOR YOUNG FISHERMEN. Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #frogfishing #booyah :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Lew's Mach II: https://amzn.to/3SEhuRL Booyah Pad Crasher Jr: https://amzn.to/40PhoK7 Zoom Zlinky: https://amzn.to/3LGuyVD (Mainline) Berkley X9 Braid: https://amzn.to/3Urhkia (Leader) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Suburban Topwater Fishing w/ Booyah Pad Crasher Jr. ] 00:27 - [ 1. Conditions & Rigs ] 04:01 - [ 2. Zoom Zlinky on the F4 Rig ] 10:28 - [ 3. Best Booyah Bass ] 11:12 - [ 4. Falling in the DISGUSTING Pond ]

Muckin' bass means bank fishing for largemouth using an F4 Rig. It's all good, even on a day like today when the bite is TOUGH. The F4 rig allows you to quickly switch from clackin' to silent, from Carolina to Texas - and a few other options in between. It's an effective, versatile rig when you want to try different things without needing to retie constantly. Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #cabincreek #stickbait One of my FAVORITE Stickbaits: https://youtu.be/yIGMQxJl_2A :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Lew's Mach II: https://amzn.to/3SEhuRL Trokar EWG: https://bit.ly/31rLuaF YUM Dinger: https://bit.ly/YumDingerStickbait (Mainline) Berkley X9 Braid: https://amzn.to/3Urhkia (Leader) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Muckin' Bass with an F4 Rig (BANK FISHING LARGEMOUTH) ] 00:33 - [ 1. Conditions & Rigs ] 01:25 - [ 2. Terrible Bank Fishing Etiquette ] 03:39 - [ 3. F4 Rig Adjustments on the Fly ] 07:52 - [ 4. Reminders on Muckin' Bass Fishing ]

Creek fishing for bass. Wading. Kayaking. Carrying. All of it... it is GOOD, and even on a tough day after the rain when the water is high and rushing and carrying sediment so thick it looks like chocolate milk - you can still catch 'em. Here's a method that works. Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #livetarget #creekfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Livetarget Frog Popper: https://amzn.to/3PjwS3P Gamakatsu Finesse Wacky Hooks: https://amzn.to/3nUcsmb YUM Dinger: https://bit.ly/YumDingerStickbait Abu Garcia Orra S Spinning Reel: https://amzn.to/3NXFQ5M Berkley Lightning Rod: https://amzn.to/3YUSyZl Berkley Powerbait Smelt: https://amzn.to/41OoXld (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ Popper Fishing a Muddy Creek (CHOCOLATE MILK!) after Rain ] 00:18 - [ 1. Conditions ] 01:02 - [ 2. The F4 Rig ] 01:35 - [ 3. The Pop 'n Drop Rig ] 06:12 - [ 4. Topwater Strike ] 09:54 - [ 5. Something is Wrong with my Reel ] 14:04 - [ 6. Reminders on High Water Creek Fishing ]

Full Project: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/complete-jon-boat-overhaul-start-to-finish-jon-boat-modification-for-bass-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPPXKFo1_kU1_ZsC4wPI60g Several years back we started The Jon Boat Project. It went well and the boat is still in use 6+ years later! We're going to go back and clean up as much footage as we can to walk through the steps to get the boat to a comfortable, functional place. It's awesome. From this point on I'll show you how everything is holding up and take a closer look at some of the modifications that were made. This was a great, relatively simple project that anyone can do. It’s also a great alternative to shelling out thousands on a brand new fishing boat if you just need a simple – but comfortable – alternative. Not to mention… it’s really fun. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. Project Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5vb5ShM2A5rvgWUl2zLKUb3zVOiG39xY

I'm still getting ready for spring. Been sharpening hooks all winter. Feeling sorry for myself... not productive... but soon... soon we shall all emerge from our icy prisons and venture forth, into the wilderness! Creek fishing bass & other gamefish in Illinois sounds like a good way to kick things off, and in these two videos, I'll show you one of the more productive ways that I like to break down a creek - whether I have fished it 100 times, or none. The baits can be swapped out - and at times, they MUST be swapped out - but the principles shown in these two videos remain unchanged. Work fast. Find fish-holding areas. Move on after making a mental note. Come back and "fish fish", slowly and precisely. ... getcha sum... Episode 1: https://youtu.be/vOeAnQ_iSAg Take a peek and let me know what you think. Tight Lines & Godspeed, Patriots. #bassfishing #strikeking #creekfishing :::::GEAR LINKS::::: Livetarget Frog Popper: https://amzn.to/3PjwS3P Gamakatsu Finesse Wacky Hooks: https://amzn.to/3nUcsmb Strike King Ocho: https://bit.ly/StrikeKingOcho Rapala Husky Jerk: https://amzn.to/3YnNGdZ Strike King Ned Ochos: https://amzn.to/41Q8MVC Mustad Grip-Pin Jigs: https://amzn.to/3YnfH5G (Mainline) Seaguar Invizx: https://amzn.to/3uV3TvF :::::VIEW THE FULL FISHING SEASON IN ORDER::::: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ Stars & Bars Fishing is an in-the-field fishing vlog for AJ Hauser, who owns and operates The Minimalist Fisherman. The presentations we review and explain on the website (https://theminimalistfisherman.com) and on The Minimalist Fisherman YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMinimalistFisherman) are put to use here. If I'm not catching fish with it - I'm not writing about it. Period. :::::VIDEO CHAPTERS / FIELD NOTES::::: 00:00 - [ How to Fish a Creek for Bass & Gamefish Part 2: Jigs & Tubes ] 02:21 - [ 1. Stopped by a Chunky Smallmouth ] 04:00 - [ 2. What We're Using: Gear Summary ] 06:42 - [ 3. Working a Mid-Creek Hole ] 10:20 - [ 4. Moving Up Past More Riffles... ] 10:40 - [ 5. A KEY Area - Never Pass These Up! ] 17:38 - [ 6. Check Your WEIGHT! ] 18:20 - [ 7. Adjusting to the Proper Weight ] 21:07 - [ 8. Consider Weedless Options ]

Full Episode: https://youtu.be/Nik_IbLTUhU See more here: https://theminimalistfisherman.com/stars-bars-fishing/ #fishing #bass