Catfish and Predator Fishing Tackle - Some Tips For Anglers

Fishing for catfish and other large predator fish has a loyal following in the UK. In this article, we'll present a brief overview of what's needed in the way of fishing tackle if you want to pursue this wily fish.

Where to Find Catfish
Catfish frequent sunken trees, reed and weed beds, deeper water and holes. Although they prefer these locations, catfish will range far and wide when feeding, so anglers have a wide range of locations where they can drop their bait. These fish also may congregate near sand bars and gravel bars. Their diet is highly variable and includes mussels, crayfish, snails, shrimps and even dead fish.

Fishing Rods and Reels for Catfish
A fishing rod length of about 12 feet with a 2 1/2 pound test curve is adequate for catfish. The fishing pole action is particularly important in catfish rigs. The term "action" refers to how the pole reacts to bending force and its rate of recovery to a neutral position. Tip action rods flex more toward in the tip and slow action rods flex more toward the butt. For catfish fishing, choose a through-action rod where the flexibility is balanced between tip and butt. A reel for catfish fishing equipment should have a capacity of at least 200 yards for 12 to 15 pound test line. This larger quantity is necessary because these fish are capable of running long distances. Fishing reels for catfish should have the bait runner feature that enables the angler to pay out line freely without tension to the fish. A flick of a lever returns tension to the spool.

Hooks and Leaders for Catfish
Choose strong, sharp hooks with a wide gap for your catfish fishing gear. Double or treble hooks are not recommended, as they are not considered a humane way to hook a fish. These hooks are capable of pinning the fish's mouth shut, ensuring certain death should it escape the fisherman. Because of the areas frequented by catfish, choose an abrasion resistant line for leaders. The line is also abraded by the fish's teeth. A thin and supple braided leader is also recommended. Never use a wire leader as it can irreparably damage a catfish's mouth.

Landing a huge catfish can be a challenge for the most experienced UK angler. The correct fishing tackle can make the difference between success and failure.

Ronan is a passionate fisherman and always looking at new materials and flies and their effects on the quarry fish. Ronan has been lucky in fishing all around the world for many different fish species including salmon, trout, steelhead, pike (or muskie) through to sailfish and marlin.

Ronan Bill is a fishing and hunting equipment professional and a part of Keenstackleandguns. He has more than 25 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. Keens is an ultimate source for fishing and hunting equipments, regardless of the type of fishing or hunting equipments you choose, Keens store is the best you can afford. Keens specializes in Fishing Equipment, Fishing Tackle, Hunting Equipment, to be more precise Fishing equipment for sale, Fly fishing equipment, Fishing tackle equipment, Carp fishing equipment, Sea fishing equipment, Carp fishing tackle , Coarse fishing tackle, Fishing tackle boxes, Sea fishing tackle, Fishing tackle shops, Fly fishing tackle, Archery hunting equipment, Best hunting equipment, Buy hunting equipment, Deer hunting equipment, Bow hunting equipment, Hunting equipment UK.

For more information feel free to get in touch with us at http://www.keenstackleandguns.co.uk/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ronan_Bill

See my previous post : 8 Step to Fishing Rod Maintenance

8 Steps to Fishing Rod Maintenance

So often we read or hear about proper care of fishing reels, yet what good is a well maintained fishing reel if you do not have a good fishing rod for that reel to be used with? No matter how much or little you have spent on your fishing rods, you can help your rods have long and productive lives by following some basic maintenance tips.

1. Rinsing your fishing rod is an important part of rod maintenance. This step may seem a bit of a pain, but really only takes a few minutes. Fishing in salt waters is a given, with the salt residue being an issue on your rod.
Yet many freshwater fishermen do not realize that algae from the water can also end up harming your rod. By rinsing your rod with fresh, clean water you can remove dirt and residue that can be attached to guides and blanks. If your rod is a little dirtier than a rinse can handle, try using a small soft brush to get the deposits. Don't forget to wipe dry with a cloth.

2. Check your cork handles. It is amazing how many fishermen will treat their guides and blanks with care, while forgetting that essential piece of the rod. Using a mild dishwashing soap and a plastic sponge will keep you cork handle looking good and help stop corrosion due to dirt, water, and other elements.

3. Another way that rods can be damaged is most commonly done when putting in boats or vehicles, yet this can result in the guides being broken off completely or bent. Transporting your rods all bundled up can also see the blanks themselves can being rubbed excessively and they are wide open to other damage like breaks or cuts. Of course the best way to avoid this problem is by carrying your fishing rod in a protective sleeve, case or just carrying them about separately.

4. I must confess that this step has been the hardest for me to follow. Storing a fishing rod with the fishing hook or lure is a wrong method of rod maintenance. The guides can really take a beating from the hooks and have chips, cracks or even breaks.

5. One of the most overlooked ways of caring for your fishing rod comes at the end of your fishing season. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, just when you will be putting your rods away for a long period of time. When this time comes you should slack the reel seat. By releasing this pressure, you can avoid problems with proper fitting of the reel seat and reel foot.

6. Avoid the possibility of developing a permanent bow in the rod, by releasing any tension that the fishing line may be under.

7. Proper storage of your fishing rod is the paramount. After all, if not stored properly your rod will be exposed to many opportunities that could damage or break your rod. It would be best to keep your rods stored in a vertical, upright position. Seek out some sort of rod rack for this. The goal is to support the rods on both ends. Also try to have them up against a solid surface, like a wall or cabinet so they do not have an unnatural "bend" during the time the rods are in storage.

8. Like most materials, your fishing rod is not made to handle hot temperatures. Avoid areas, like your boat or automobiles trunk that have prolonged exposure to the sun. Speaking of heat, I am sure you realize that storing your fishing rod in the sunlight for long periods of time can result in the breaking down or corroding of rod parts. So avoid outdoor walls as an option.

Fishing Rods are an important piece in the fishing equation. More fishing information is available on Fishing Rod Cases or specific angling rods like Salt Water Fishing Rods

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dean_Carl

See my previous post:

The Ugly Stick Fishing Rod - Amongst the Best

With its unusual name, many people might not think of a fishing rod when they hear about the Ugly Stick...but that is what it is. It's not ugly, either, it's is quite a handsome looking fishing rod, and one of the most popular on the market. Its popularity comes from its strength and durability, and its relatively low price for the quality that you get. Avid fishermen can't ask for more than that!
It is the color of this fishing rod that gave it its unusual name; clear along the tip end, and a gray color on the rest of the rod. Most people think that the Ugly Stick fishing rod looks just fine, however - even attractive - but nevertheless the name has remained the same for many years.

Created by a company called Shakespeare, which has been in business since 1897, the Ugly Stick fishing rod became popular in a very short amount of time. Quality craftsmanship and reasonable pricing made it a formidable contender in the fishing rod market, and many fishermen, although at first skeptical, switched to using this fishing rod after they tried one for themselves. Catchy advertising these days, such as "Fish Ugly", has made the Ugly Stick fishing rod even more of a unique item to own. The Ugly Stick fishing rod was a big seller soon after it first came on the market, and today it is the largest selling fishing rod of all time.

Shakespeare makes several different types of Ugly Stick fishing rods, for different types of fishing. There are Ugly Stick catfish rods, Ugly Stick crappie rods and poles, and Ugly Stick striper rods, to name a few. Some people may think that it doesn't matter what type of fishing pole you use when you are freshwater fishing, as long as it is light enough to be comfortable, but experienced fishermen know that this is not true. Ugly Stick enthusiasts very rarely have one type of Ugly Stick fishing rod - most have several. Even those rods that are for a specific kind of fishing come in different styles, to make sure that fishermen have the right rod for what type of water they are fishing in and what type of fishing they are doing.
For big water and deep water fishing, Shakespeare makes a version of the Ugly Stick called the "Wicked Stick", a longer and wider pole built for being able to tackle big ocean fish such as tuna and shark. Wicked Sticks actually come in different colors, unlike their "Ugly Stick" counterparts.
Fishermen who are looking for a good fishing rod, no matter what type of fishing they will be doing, would do well to check out the Ugly Stick first - they may not feel the need to look any further!

John Gibb is the owner of fishing rod guides
For more information on fishing rods check out http://www.fishingrod-sources.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb  

See my previous post:  How to Choose the Best Fly Fishing Rod

How to Choose the Best Fly Fishing Rod

If you're seriously looking at fly fishing rods, then perhaps you already know what you want, and why. If you're not sure what to look for in a new rod, then here's what you need to think about.
1. You'll need to determine what you'll use this rod for. Will it be your main fishing rod? Will you use it on holiday? Is it for your children to use? Is it to keep in the car, just in case?
2. Where you fish can also help to determine what sort of fly fishing rod you need. If you sit by the side of the lake, then you'll have different requirements than if you fish in a river, in your waders.

3. How often you fish will also be an important factor to consider. There's no point in spending a fortune on one of the expensive fly fishing rods if you're only going to use it a couple of times a year.

4. If you've decided to buy a new fishing rod for your main rod, then you might already have particular requirements from it. You'll want to look for a rod that meets these needs.
5. Perhaps you're looking for a lightweight rod. A lighter rod will be better if you're fishing in a river, and have to hold your rod all day, whereas weight might not be as important if you're fishing from the banks of the river.
6. You'll need your new rod to be easy to use, so that you can manage it even when your hands are cold and wet.
7. You might need to buy new fly fishing reels if your old ones don't work well with your new rod, so you'll want to make sure that you get the right ones.

8. It's important that your new rod is comfortable, so that you can use it all day, and that it's easy to assemble and take apart, even when you're cold and wet.
9. The brand of rod you choose isn't as important as getting the right rod. You might already know which brands you like, but you should consider lots of brands, so that you don't make and expensive mistake.
10. Although you might have a budget in mind, you'll want to get the right fly fishing rod, so there's no point in economising, and not getting what you want or need. You'll only regret it, and have to buy another rod to replace it.
Now you know you need to think about when looking at fly fishing rods, you'll be able to buy the best one.

If you're looking at Fly Fishing Rods, then why not see if John Norris has the right one for you? With a wide range of rods, reels and waders, from all the leading brands, as well as Fly Tying accessories, and fishing and outdoor clothing, you're bound to be able to find what you need. Why not find out more, and buy online, at JohnNorris.co.uk today?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_James 

See my previous post:Choosing the Best Sea Fishing Rod for You

 

Choosing the Best Sea Fishing Rod for You

Sea fishing rods vary in size, material, and function. To the novice, one rod may seem the same as the next; however, it is very important to pick the proper rod in regards to the what you are fishing for and where you will be fishing. There are a number of factors to consider.
You would not use the same rod to reel in a trout as you would to reel in a marlin. If you are going to be shore fishing or rock-hopping, you would not need nearly as large of a rod as you would if you were deep sea fishing. If you are fishing for larger, deep sea fish you will need a thick and sturdy rod, built to handle the stress of reeling in a large fish that is fighting for his life. There is a perfect rod for every type of fishing, and it is important to choose the right one.

Since a rod is the most important piece of equipment when one is fishing, what your rod is made of would be a very important factor as well. Rods need to be able to stand up to the salty sea air and not corrode or deteriorate. Most sea fishing rods are either made from graphite, or from fiberglass. Many anglers seem to agree that graphite is superior to fiberglass because it is both lighter, and more durable; however, fiberglass fishing rods remain popular amongst many fisherman for their superior flexibility, which can help ease the physical weariness if you should be reeling in a large fish for hours on end.
When choosing your rod, keep in mind that it will affect the rest of your fishing gear as well. Not all sea fishing rods are compatible with all reels, and not all reels are compatible with all rods. Also, the type of line you are using will depend on the type of fishing rod you are using. If you are using a large fishing rod, you will be fishing for large fish. This, in turn, would require you to use a larger line (not to mention larger bait), which can not be put in just any reel. I think you can clearly see how the rod affects the rest of your fishing gear.

If you are a novice looking to start sea fishing it may seem daunting at first. Ask questions to the people who know the answers: other fisherman.

They will have all the tips and pointers you will ever need when looking to choose the best sea fishing rod for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Leverton

See my previous post: Fishing Rods - What is the Best Fishing Rod to Buy?

Fishing Rods - What is the Best Fishing Rod to Buy?

What is the best Fishing Rod to buy? There are thousands available in fishing tackle stores online (and off) so lets start with the basic rod types and what they are used for. We will then talk a little about brands, construction, quality and price to help you find the right fishing rod.
Firstly there are a number of different types of fishing rods. Read through the following sections to see which activity best suits what you need to do while fishing.
Spin Rods
Spinning fishing rods are most often used in freshwater locations, although you can buy heavier rods for saltwater or boat use. Spin rods are designed to suit an eggbeater style reel and are used for casting and retrieving lures and baits. Many general purpose rods are called spin rods. It is likely that if you want to do a little river fishing, some pier fishing, or maybe light boat fishing that a spin fishing rod may be your best choice. Spin rods generally have lengths of 1.6m to 2.4m.

Surf Rods
Surf rods tend to be the longest fishing rods, and they are usually quite heavy in construction and weight too. They are long to assist in casting bait and sinkers/tackle from the beach out into the surf. Also, you can catch quite large fish with surf rods (maybe even shark) so a rod with plenty of strength is required. Surf rods are designed for eggbeater reels, overhead/conventional reels and sidecast reels. They are typically 3m to 4.2 m in length.
Game Fishing Rods

Game rods are used for game fishing in deeper saltwater. They are designed to catch large pelagic fish, and typically designed to hold fishing line of 10/15kg up to 37kg in strength. Game rods are thick and do not bend very easily. They will often have a gimbal fitting on the butt section so they can be used in a game fishing harness or chair. They will often have one or more 'roller' guides instead of regular line guides.
Fly Rods
Fly fishing rods are designed to catch freshwater fish, most usually trout, halibut or salmon. They are between 1.8 and 3.6m in length, and have a thin 'whippy' blank. They are designed to hold fly fishing reels and are predominantly used for freshwater fishing (although some people now use larger heavier rods and flys for some saltwater fishing too).

Boat Rods
Boat rods are probably a sub class of spin rods, but are shorter and heavier in length, designed for the rigours of saltwater fishing. They may be short to medium length (1.6 to 2.1m in length) and be able to hold line weights of 10 to 20kg. In Australia for example, boat rods are used for snapper and shark fishing, and may  be designed to hold overhead/conventional or eggbeater style reels.
Construction
Most rods are made of either of 2 materials, fibreglass or graphite.
Fibreglass rods are hardier, can usually bend more, and cheaper. However, graphite rods can offer better 'feel' and now thanks to improving technologies, can be quite tough and resilient too. Graphite rods are usually more expensive.
Value/Quality/Brand
There are many brands of fishing rods in the market these days. Some brands are known worldwide, others are local to a country or region, and there is a growing number of very small brands due to the ease of importing product directly from factories and agent sin China (eg, home eBay businesses).
The fact is most rods in the world are manufactured in asia. Usually in China. The big companies/brands all use very large and sophisticated factories. Smaller brands either use contract factories or piggy back onto the top tier factories. there are many rod factories, so quality can vary. We recommend sticking to well known brands and retailers in your area that can offer support, have good product knowledge and can offer good value too.
Look for good reputable retailers, and do some price research before buying.

Tacklemania.com.au has a great range of fishing rods and fishing tackle to choose from with some great value high quality brands.
Fishing Rods
Fishing Tackle

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Cooper 

See my previous post:Best Fly Fishing Rod: Things You Need to Know Before You Buy a Fly Rod
 

Best Fly Fishing Rod: Things You Need to Know Before You Buy a Fly Rod

Fly fishing is a hobby that has seen huge advancements with technology throughout the years. While the fish and flies are still the same, the advances in the fly rods, reels and fly lines have improved tremendously, especially in the last 30 years. As the popularity of fly fishing has increased exponentially, the competition to produce the best fly fishing rods has heated up with many manufactures competing to produce the next best fly fishing rods. It takes time on the water to develop a feel for what a person will like the most, so to speed up the process, below is a quick guide to ensure you start you fly fishing career the right way with the right gear, starting with a fly rod.
Fly Fishing Rod Basics: Fly fishing rods vary from standard fishing rods in that with a fly rod you are casting the line compared to a standard rod that casts the lure. It takes much less to build a rod that casts a weighted lure than it does to cast an almost weightless line that is designed to lay on the water with maximum delicacy. Therefore, a fly rod of any quality will be a bit more expensive than your standard fishing rod. In fact, for a person just starting out bait fishing, a cheap rod will work just fine. It is quite the opposite with fly fishing rods. A quality made rod will enhance your experience tremendously when compared to a superstore combo pack where you get a complete setup, including rod, reel, line, tippet, and even flies, for under $50.00. If you are expecting to continue to fly fish, that will be money well wasted.

Materials: Throughout the years, fly rods have seen many changes in the materials that are used to construct them.
· Bamboo has been a longtime favorite for its action and nostalgia, but is expensive and not typically the best pick for someone's first fly fishing rod.
· Fiberglass, though strong with lots of action, is heavy and almost nonexistent in the fly fishing world these days.
· Graphite: The best bet for a first fly rod, as well as the top pick for experienced anglers, are rods made out of a type of graphite. Graphite rods are light and can be designed to put the flex where it is needed, which change depending on the situations an angler plans to put themselves into.

Weight: The size of line that a rod is designed to cast is known as the weight (wt) of the rod. This also signifies the size of fish you will most likely be targeting where the lower the weight of rod, the smaller the fish you will be after. For example, a 4 wt rod is ideal for dry fly trout fishing, where as a 10 wt rod is designed to cast big flies at big fish such as King Salmon. Follow the link below at the end of this article to see what weight rod will be best designed for the type of fly fishing and size of fish you will most likely be encountering.
Length: With different types of fish, in many different types of areas throughout the world, different length of rods must be developed to handle the varying conditions one may find themselves in. For trout in small streams with lots of brush and trees, a six or seven foot rod may be ideal, while on a big river fishing for steelhead a 14 foot spey rod might be the best option. For most situations though, a 9 foot rod will be the most popular and most versatile in the most situations that a beginner will encounter.
Rod Sections: Most fly rods will be able to be broke down for times when not in use and for travel, much like standard rods. Due to the length of the rods though, a rod that breaks down into two pieces is still going to be long and not travel all that well, especially if you are to be backpacking or flying with your rod. That is why it is advised to go with a rod that breaks down into 4 pieces. The connections for the sections, called ferrels, are so well made these days that you will not know it is 4 sections.

A fly rod is the first and also the most important item in a list of things that will be needed to get into this hobby.  Once you decide on a rod, you will then need to choose a line and reel to go with it.  To ensure you get your money's worth and the "Best Fly Fishing Rod" setup that you will be able to use for a lifetime, make sure to go to www.OnlineFlyFishingGuide.com where we will be able to specify a certain fly rod designed for the situations you will be dealing with and tailored to your budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_N_Jackson 

See my previoust post :Jig Fishing Techniques