Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 11/12/12

There are NOT too many nice days in November like there was yesterday at the Pack.  Actually, Sunday was even NICER which is why I didn't fish.  Normally, when the sun is bright on a bluebird day (no clouds- blue skies), the fishing is not very good because the Smallies go deep- to avoid the bright light.  What makes the sun even easier to penetrate the water is no wind.  That's what was on the menu (weather-wise) for Sunday.

I launched from the State Ramp at 0830.  The skies were clear, no wind, temps in the mid 40s.  It actually felt warmer since the sun was bright and there was no wind.  Water temp was a solid 50F.  I haven't been up to the Pack to fish for the majority of the month of October..therefore, I didn't know how the fishing was.  I stopped in Paupack Sport Shop on Sunday and they (Mark) said they were catchin' em (Smallies) on the typical cranks, spinners and spoons.  So, that's what I had tied on to my lines/rods: crankbaits and small spinnerbaits- for the most part.  I started at the Dam end of the Lake and worked the shoreline hard..with an assortment of baits and colors..not to mention sizes...nothin', not even a sniff.  Then, I moved down to the mid-section of the Lake and worked the shoreline out to 15 ft. of water- NOTHIN'.  Can you believe that?  I worked the deeper points too- and NOTHIN'.  The air temps rose to the mid 50s by 1000..then, it started to cloud over and the wind started picking up.  I knew fishing could only get better..so I stayed out another 1 1/2 hrs..and NOTHIN'.  I wasn't marking much on my fishfinder either.  I slowed the retrieve on my crankin', maybe I was working the baits too fast.  That didn't help..again..NOTHIN'.  At around noonish, I had enough so I pulled chocks (flying term I learned from the military) and headed home.  By the time I got home, the air temp was up to 60F and the sun peaked through once again.  To tell you I was frustrated (at zeroing out) was an understatement.  This is the first trip I caught NOTHIN'...a complete goose egg..ZERO..NO FISH!  I was so pissed I called my friend Billy Albright up (Full-time guide on the Lake) and asked- What's up Billy?  Bill agreed, fishing this Fall has been some of the toughest in recent history.  Why?  I have no idea.  Normally, in the Fall (at the Pack) you'd catch BIG FISH using the same lures I was throwing yesterday..and I mean you'd catch 10-12 brutes per day.

Well, kudos to the Smallies for being stealthy and staying off the hook.  They really kicked my ass this Fall.  I guess that makes up for the fantastic Spring and Summer I had.  I may not have caught BIG fish this Spring/Summer but the quantities were always there 5-10 Smallies per day averaging 2 lb.  I hate to say it but I think that's it for Smallie Fishing for me this year..at least out of the big boat.  I may take the kayak out and fish in the Cove when I'm up for Thanksgiving..weather permitting of course.

Until next report..Fish ON!  Rob

Didymo or Cyanobacteria in the Pack?

If you've been fishing the Pack this Summer, you've no doubt noticed the "pea green soup" colored water in July and August.  In fact, only in the last couple weeks (mid-September) has the water cleared up some.  What's causing this green soupy colored water?  Is it Blue-green algae or is it some other kind of algae called, "didymo" or "rock snot"?  In addition to the green soupy color water, you'll notice that as the water drops, it leaves a white chalky residue on the shoreline.  You'd think that if it's green water, it would dry green...NOT bright white.  I'll bet the reason it dries white is because of the high nutrients in the water.  These nutrients (mostly phosphorous and nitrogen) come from the water runoff from farm lands, septic systems, fertilized grass lawns, etc.

What is Didymo?  According to Wikipedia: Didymosphenia geminata, commonly known as didymo or rock snot, is a species of diatom that blooms in freshwater rivers and streams, with consistently cold water temperatures. In late Winter it can form large mats on the bottom of rivers and streams. It is not considered a significant human health risk, but it can affect stream habitats and sources of food for fish and make recreational activities unpleasant. It is considered a nuisance organism or invasive species. The microscopic algae can be spread in a single drop of water.

This makes sense because I have noticed this "rock snot" on my jigs when I was throwing them in the late Spring early Summer when the lake temp is cold.  So, I know the Pack has "rock snot".  But, is this enough to color the water a green soupy color?  I think not.  I actually think that in addition to the "rock snot" there is an infestation of blue-green algae as well...aka Cyanobacteria.

I haven't seen any "matting" on the surface of blue-green algae or the raunchy smell that accommodates it, but I know it's in the Lake.  Is it safe?  I don't know, I don't think the concentrations are as high as they are in other Lakes I've seen.  Plus, I'm sure if wasn't safe, there would be animal life dying and/or people getting sick.  And, I'm sure the EPA would be all over it.  But then again, you wonder whether any news is suppressed as not to create a "panic" of sorts.  The problem with these algae/bacteria is that they CAN become toxic.

I don't want to scare anyone, but bacteria can cause toxins that can cause disease.  Staphlococci are generally found on the surface of the skin. When they invade the body tissue, for instance through a cut, they usually produce a local infection with inflammation and pus. Occasionally a strain of staphylococcus develops that can cause an infection so bad that it starts to eat flesh.  If you don't believe me, contact my friend (and full-time fishing guide on the Pack) and ask him why he only has 4 toes on one foot.  Makes you think huh?

Fish ON! Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 9/29/12

A repeat of last Saturday- HORRIBLE fishing!  Again, the Smallies were NOT on the bank.  BTW, when I say "on the bank", I'm talking from 0-10 ft. of water.   I fished from 10-15 ft. and all I was able to pickup was a big-a$$ pickerel and some panfish by jigging.  Air Temp was 54F, water temp 65F.  Winds were out of the Northwest at 10 mph.  Skies were cloudy all day...no sun.  I fished from 0730 to 1130, Penn State game was on at noon. (Beat Illinois)

So, what's going on with the Smallies?  Two weeks in a row the fish are NOT on the bank and hanging out in deeper water.  I heard that the Smallies are actually in 20-25 ft. of water..about 5-10 ft. deeper than what I was fishing.  No wonder I wasn't marking any fish on the fishfinder..or baitfish schools.  They were a tad deeper.

I'll be up again this Saturday to give it another go.  I'll be checking the bank, once again, but not spending any time there if I don't get bit quickly.  No sense in pissin' time away on the bank when they're hanging out in deep water.  I'll know if they are on the bank within an hour.  All I need to do is check a couple spots, with my "magic" bait..ha

If anyone is reading this blog..and wants to share some info..click on the comments section below this post.  Or, you can email me at: mullerrj@gmail.com

Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 9/22/12

Fishing was HORRIBLE on Saturday- at least for me it was.  I woke-up to 20-30 mph winds on Sat morning.  I turned on the Weather Channel and it said winds out of the SE at 7 mph for Scranton/Carbondale. Are you kidding me, 7 mph?  When I got over to Capri Marina at 0800 the winds were at least 20-30 mph out of the SE.  In fact, it was the windiest day I experienced so far this year on the Lake.  The waves were 2-3 ft. out on the Lake.  The skies were threatening..cloudy.  The air temp was 57F.  Water temp was 68F.  After launching I headed over to Briar Hill Summit and fished the bank down into Martin's Cove.  Naturally, there were 6 other boats along the shoreline staying out of the wind.  I think there was a tournament out of the State Ramp.  Nobody was catching a thing (and I was watching them all)..including me...NOTHING.  I switched up baits too and fished deeper..and NOTHING.  I caught a perch and sunfish but that was it..no bass.  From there, I headed over to my cove (Goose Pond Cove) and fished from the Castle looking house on the Point down into Goose Pond creek.  NOTHING.  It started to spit rain a little bit..mostly a fine mist.  From there, I headed across the Lake...and NOTHING.  At that time, 1030, the wind started to subside and the sun started to peek out a little.  But, I was also disgusted..just didn't feel like fishing anymore.  I took the boat out by 1130.  When I got back to the ramp, the 3 other bass boat trailers that were there were gone.  So, I'm sure they were equally as disgusted and left.  Later on in the day, the skies cleared, the winds subsided, and the sun came out.  We didn't get rain till late afternoon.  When it did rain, it came down in buckets for at least 5-10 minutes..and then it cleared up.  That was it, cold front had moved through.  I have NO IDEA why the fishing wasn't better prior to the front moving in.  Normally, when the barometer is dropping the feeding is more frequent.  Well, not for me.

Chalk this one up as the worst day fishing on the Lake all year long.  Hope I don't experience another like it.

Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack makes Bassmaster's Top 100 List

Just noticed that the 2012 May issue of Bassmaster's Mag listed Lake Wallenpaupack in their Top 100 Bass Lakes in the USA.  That's pretty impressive if you ask me.  The Pack wasn't ranked that high, but in the Top 100 list nonetheless.  Other noteworthy bass fisheries, that I've fished, on the Top 100 list include: Lake Hopatcong, NJ, Susquehanna River, PA, Potomac River, MD, St. Lawrence River, NY, Lake Champlain, NY, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, and Table Rock Lake, MO.  What was on the Top 100 list that I haven't fished yet, and ranked pretty high, was #14 Oneida Lake, NY and #4 Lake Erie, PA.  Sounds like a road trip to me.  In fact, I'd like to fish them both on the same trip.  Leave on Saturday and fish Oneida on Sun-Tues (3 days), and Erie on Wed-Sat (4 days) and return on Sunday.   I'm sure my friend (and Professional Bass Fishing Guide) Bill Albright knows Oneida well enough to show me around.  But, since Erie is so big and dangerous (it's like the Ocean), I'd have to hire a local Guide out there just to make sure I don't navigate into rough waters and sink the boat.  Don't laugh..going out onto Lake Erie too far and fishing deep for brute Smallies is dangerous if you don't know what the hell you're doing..and you get caught in a storm.  Better safe than sorry.  I'd love to catch a 5 lb. Smallie.  Hell, catchin' a 3 lb. Smallie is loads of fun.  I can only imagine what a 5 is like.

Anyway, here is the list.  How many have you fished?

http://www.bassmaster.com/slideshow/bassmasters-best-bass-lakes

Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 9/3/12

Water temps still in the high 60s low 70s.  Air Temps from 9/1 to 9/3 with HIGHS in the low 80s..partly cloudy, winds from 0-10 mph predominantly out of the East.  Night time LOWS in the upper 60s.  Numbers of Smallies have dwindled in recent weeks but the size hasn't.  Caught a number of solid 2 pounders with a couple weighing 3 pounds.

The water clarity has cleared up some.  Last week the lake visibility was about 1 foot.  It looked like pea soup.  This week, viz was about 3 ft. and just a little green color.  No topwater action at 0630.  The week before, I missed a nice fish (probably a Smallie but could have been a LM) on a Zara Spook next to a dock at 0530.  There's no doubt you'll get a better topwater bite in total dark- in the early a.m. hours.  Catching most, if not all, Smallies on soft plastics (tubes, jigs, worms, etc.)  Threw a crankbait for a while but nothing doing.  Tried drop-shotting for a bit and couldn't pull anything up but Rockies- aka Rock Bass, Red-eyes, etc.  I have yet to find a spot where the Smallies are stacked up in the depths- which I'm sure they are somewhere.  Just haven't found em yet.

Majority of Smallies caught in 6-10 ft. of water near rocks/weeds.  Bites are near non-detectable.  i.e. you better not be chatting with your fishing partner and not paying attention to your rod/line.  I see/hear it all the time when tournament guys pull-in near me.  I feel like saying, "You'd catch more fish if you just shut the hell up and pay attention".  Sheesh..just a bunch of "Chatty Kathy's".  I'm glad I don't tournament fish in local club tournaments anymore.  If you want to get better at fishing, fish the bigger money tournaments with a serious fishing partner.

This summer the mid-section of the Lake as well as the upper end section (near Ledgedale) have been better Smallie fishing in the Summer.  This is NOT the norm of past years.  Normally, the upper end of the lake is only good in the early Spring.  That's because it warms up faster because it's shallower.  Then, the lower end of the lake (near the dam) gets good in the Summer.  I don't know why this year is different.  My friend, and professional guide Bill Albright, said he's been experiencing the same.  What I have noticed, however, is that the weeds have not been growing as well as previous years.  And, you would think it would even be more heavily populated since we had a mild Winter.  In fact, this is the first year in a long time that the Lake did NOT freeze in the middle.  So much for making sense of the fishing..huh?

Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 8/27/12

Fished both Saturday and Sunday.  Both days, air temps in the low 80s, skies partly cloudy, water temp 75F.  Fished from 5am to 10am each day.  Fished with my bro-in-law which is why I was able to post this pic.  Between the two of us, I'd say we caught a dozen legal size Smallies (>12") each day.  A couple 2+ pounders that we didn't get a photo of.  The Lake is "pea green" with a viz about 2 ft. at best. The shoreline has a distinctive white residue from the drying green algae.  I'm wondering why it turns bright chalk white after being green.  Is it from all the minerals/phosphates/etc. in the algae?  I don't know..that's what I'm guessing.

Our fish were caught on an assortment of lures: Pop-R's, jigs, senkos, tubes, Spooks in the early a.m.  I missed a HUGE Smallie or LM on a Jitterbug.  I had him on, but lost him.  Probably because he rolled on the lure and pulled it out of his mouth.  I hate the hooks on the Jitterbug and the fact they aren't connected via split rings which allows them to roll and get off.  Normally, I replace them but I didn't have the chance before we went out.  Oh well.

The majority of our fish were caught in 6 ft. of water with rocks and weedbeds nearby...even though I was marking a lot more fish in 15-20 ft. of water.   It also helped that we were fishing at the dropoffs from 6 ft. to 20 ft.  We didn't catch any fish deeper than 6 ft.  The bite on Saturday was more aggressive than on Sunday.  On Sunday the bigger fish were picking the bait off on the bottom.  They almost wanted it "dead still".  You couldn't hardly detect the pickup..just had to watch your line move or feel slight tension on the line..and you knew it was on.  If I were fishing solo, I would have moved out a little deeper and fished the better structure where I was seeing more fish.  I probably would have drop-shotted for those deeper fish.

The Lake wasn't too crowded this weekend.  I expected more boats but then again, the kids went back to College this past weekend so maybe a lot of family's didn't come up.  I hope it's less crowded this coming Labor Day Weekend but I have a feeling it's going to be crowded because for some..it's the last hoorah for the Summer.  Thank God.  I'll be glad to see them go.  The best time for fishing is in the Spring and/or Fall when there are fewer boats and BIGGER fish are caught.

Fish ON!  Rob

2012 TZX 190 w/ Jackplate

Here's a pic of a TZX 190 from a friend Randy (from Louisiana) I met on the net.  Randy's boat, like mine, is a 2012 Skeeter TZX 190.  However, Randy has some additional items I don't have such as a tandem axle trailer and a 4" Jackplate on the transom.  I'm going to have a JP installed on my TZX 190 over the Winter.  The JP is a good idea on this boat for several reasons: a) you get better performance out of the outboard (less drag=higher speed + better mpg), b) better shallow water boat/trailer loading, c) gives Side Imaging transducer room for a better look/view  and d) puts the engine higher and further back of transom for a better ride and frees cables/hoses from binding on stern deck.  Just a good investment if you ask me.

Good lookin' boat Randy.  Fish ON! Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 8/12/12

Got out on Sunday..60F when I started at 0630.  Water temp 77F.  Slight wind out of the East, Sunny skies.  Air temp warmed up to mid 70s by 1030 when I took-out.

Fishing was good.  Caught 6 Smallies, two of them in the 2+ lb range.  Caught em on worms and a drop-shot rig.  Fished a nice stretch of shoreline that I don't normally fish across from my Cove.  Noticed that the lake level had fallen once again and that there was a distinct white chalky shoreline residue.  Also noticed that the water is turning a "pea green" color which my friend (Bill Albright) and I believe is an algae bloom.  That could explain the white chalky shoreline.  You would think the residue would be green but maybe it's white because of all the minerals/nutrients in the algae..who knows.  We have noticed that the weed growth (hydrilla) has been very sparse this summer.  Perhaps that is from the algae stunting its growth?  Who knows.  Regardless, the fishing remains good.  I just hope this algae die-off (which happens in the Fall) doesn't affect the Bass.  I think the algae is particulary dominant in the Lake this year because we didn't have any ice/snow on the Lake this past Winter to keep the sunlight from penetrating.   It's the first time in a LONG time that there hasn't been ice/snow in the middle of the Lake. The algae may have started growing sooner than normal.  Plus, we've had a particularly hot/humid Summer which is probably adding to the algae growth.

Until next time..Fish ON!  Rob

2012 Skeeter TZX 190 Update

I'm finally getting my TZX 190 dialed-in.  This past weekend I finally got the "thru-the-hull" transducer to work.  The transducer was always installed but it wasn't hooked  up to the Fishfinder.  Apparently, the dealer only hooked up the Side Imaging transducer when I purchased the boat.  My dealer sent me a Y-cable in the mail and I was able to connect both transducers.  The Fishfinder now operates like it should when the boat is up on plane.  I'm FINALLY happy with the performance.
I'm also finally getting the "sweet spot" identified on the trailer so I can fully powerload the boat onto the trailer.  There is no reason why ANY bass boat should have to be winched up to the trailer roller.  You should be able to drive the boat right onto the trailer without incident.  A combination of spraying the bunks with silicone, choosing a ramp that's not tilted, and choosing the correct depth to submerge the trailer is KEY in loading the boat properly.
The only other "anomaly" on the boat is the fact that the front light broke on its first use.  I was coming back from the Firework display on the Lake and the front light decided to crap out.  Upon further inspection I discovered that the light just broke internally.  Back to Perko it goes.  I have no idea how the internal component could have broken..even if it was dropped.  It was a plastic piece holding the bulb that just broke off.  Terrible quality!  What made matters worse was the light crapped out at probably the worst time it could..coming back from the fireworks with 500 boats on the Lake in pitch dark.  Compound that with 5-6 ft. waves from all the boat traffic.  On a positive note, the TZX 190 never speared a wave and never got me wet.  I kid you not, the waves were 5-6 ft. high.  If you want a lesson in wave amplitude and resonance- this was it.  Just imagine HEAVY boats (cruisers) running parallel at just 20 mph where their hulls are just plowing water to the sides and their 3 ft. wakes jumping on top of other adjacent boats 3 ft. wakes. It makes for a VERY nerve racking 5 mile ride back to my dock slip.  Now, add TOTAL darkness and it really makes for a nerve racking experience.
Anyway, getting all the bugs out..and hoping for a worry-free TZX 190 experience in the near future.
Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 7/8/12

Water temps reach 80F for the first time of the year.  I'm sure the fireworks at the High School and all the boat traffic stirred the fish up pretty good.  Despite that, and the bluebird skies on the weekend, I was able to catch a nice string of smallies.  I was even able to catch a BIG ASS pickerel and a Seagull.  Yes, a Seagull picked up my Zara Spook..not only once but twice and tried flying away with it.  I'm sure it ripped the guy a new asshole before he decided to drop it.  Oh well.
The Smallies I caught were primarily caught with Senkos in 6-10 ft. of water around Ironwood Pt. in the early morning hours.  I think what truly made for a successful catch is the fact that I continued to fish the shaded areas of the Lake as the sun was rising.  I also targeted areas where the creek channel came close to a point on the Lake.  The Smallies I caught were anywhere from 1-2 lbs. (no brutes/lunkers).  They were also VERY dark.  Very dark normally means the fish spend most of their time in deep water where sun penetration is low.  That makes sense since I was mainly fishing the points where the deeper creek channels come close to land.  I suppose the fish I caught were deeper fish that were still up in the shallows for their early morning feed.
Until next time.  Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 6/24/12

Water has been warming up nicely.  Temps are in the mid 70s.  Topwater fishing has been good in the early morning hours.  The Community holes are filling up fast with all kinds of cruisers, pontoon boats, etc.  Just the other day, a pontoon boat with 8 bait fishermen pulled within 10 yds. of my boat at 0630 and started fishing.  Can you believe that?  The guy's name was Rocky.  I took a photo of his pontoon boat and his registration number.  I'm not sure if I'm going to report the guy to the PA Fish and Game Commission or not.  I'll have to check and see if that will do any good.  I know it's NOT just me this guy has crowded on the Lake, he did it to another bassboat.  In fact, the other bassboat was a Guide on the Lake, Ray's Guide Service.  I heard Ray got into a shouting match with Rocky after I left.  I had a few words with Rocky myself.  If this persists, Rocky's ignorance, I may have to give my old friend Jerry a call.  Jerry would be paying Rocky a friendly visit and letting him know about proper fishing etiquette.
Hot air temps this week will be driving up the water temp to the mid-to-high 70s.  With the increased water temps comes increased feeding. i.e. bass will be eating more often..especially at night and early morning hours.  During the day, when the sun gets high, the fish will be headed deep.  You can bang the banks all you want and you'll come up short.  Better patterns during the day (then banging the bank) would be fishing under the docks (where the temps are cooler and sunlight not as bright) and on deeper points (where the same conditions exist).
If you've never fished at night, July and August are the best months at the Pack.  I like fishing at night.  There are no pesky pontoon boats or cruisers out at night.  The water is calm.  The temps are cooler.  The topwater fishing is AWESOME..in addition to jig and spinnerbait fishing.  I've caught my biggest Largemouth at night with a Jitterbug.  You can also run into a school of Stripers at night feeding on Threadfin Shad.  When the Striper's start busting baitfish at night, you'll know it.  It will sound like somebody is drowning.
Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 6/17/12

I didn't fish on Sunday because there were two tournaments on the Lake.  I figured the fishing would be tough..and it WAS according to Bill Albright, local guide.  I woke up at 0500 to hear about 30 bass boats flying down the Lake.  Conditions looked good, overcast skies, slight breeze, etc. but the fishing was tough.  The winning bag was 8 fish for 15 lbs.  Normally, when the fishing is ON..that bag weight would be closer to 20 lbs., if not over.  The winning Smallie weighed 3 lbs. and the winning LM was 4.5 lbs. (I think).  I went down to the dock around 0900 and saw four bass boats in our Cove (Goose Pond Cove).  All four boats were pounding the bank..to no avail.  I knew if they didn't have at least 3-4 fish in the livewell by 0900 it was going to be a long day.
I always wondered whether 30+ boats zooming down the middle of the Lake at 0500 puts the bass in alert mode- i.e, a negative feeding mode.  I wouldn't doubt it.  How else do you explain the low weights at weigh-ins when just a week earlier, w/ similar conditions, you would have brought a 20 lb. bag in?  And, the guys in the ABA tournament are some of the top fishermen around..trust me.
Regardless, the water temps will REALLY warm-up this week with mid 90F air temps.  The higher water temps will definitely fire up the fish. i.e. they'll be moving more and eating more.  There is no doubt that the Topwater bite will be on early.  The action doesn't last long but when it's ON..it's ON!  It's a lot of fun.
I'll be out there on Saturday morning from 0500 til 1100.  I like to get off the Lake when I see the first jet skier/PWCs/Waverunners (whatever you call em).  I hate those pesky things..they're freakin' annoying to say the least.  Water skiers are also annoying..especially the ones that love to buzz our bass boats close to the shoreline.  Almost got in a fight years ago because a water skiing boat kept buzzing my bass boat 20 ft. from the shoreline.  I casted my jerkbait at the driver as he blew by me at 25 mph and damn hear hit em..ha.  He shut his engine down and said, "YOU ALMOST HIT ME YOU A$$HOLE".  I said, "I'M SORRY I MISSED.  I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO RIP THAT BIG NOSE OFF YOUR FACE".  It was pretty funny.  Can you believe that though?  The guy was buzzing by me no more than 30 ft. off the shoreline at 0900 in the morning with nobody else on the Lake..sheesh.
Until next report- FISH ON!  Rob

$1M Fish Swimming in the Pack

PPL’s Lake Wallenpaupack Welcomes Anglers in National Fishing Contest

June 6, 2012 at 3:14 pm (Uncategorized)
Tags: Cabela's, contest, Fishing, Lake Wallenpaupack

Somewhere in the depths of Lake Wallenpaupack a largemouth bass, walleye or a rainbow trout may be swimming with a $1 million tag and waiting for a juicy worm as part of the nationwide “Wanna’ Go Fishing for Millions?” contest sponsored by Cabela’s®, a leading outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor equipment.

“Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular destination for anglers throughout the year, and now they have another reason to come here in search of a possible million-dollar fish and other tagged fish that qualify for other prizes,” said Paul Canevari, PPL’s community relations director for the Pocono region.

“The contest is being conducted in several locations across the country, so when Cabela’s approached the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission about a suitable location in Pennsylvania, we were honored that they chose Lake Wallenpaupack,” he said. “If you haven’t visited Lake Wallenpaupack, now’s a good time to experience it and come prepared with your lucky lures and love of the outdoors.”

Lake Wallenpaupack is one of 12 lakes in Pennsylvania and one of 19 states nationwide participating in the Cabela’s contest with fish stocked with prize-winning tags. Bodies of water chosen for the contest are in states where Cabela’s has retail stores. The contest started Saturday, May 5 and continues through July 8. Prize winners will be announced online after July 8.

Contest details are available at www.cabelas.com/fishformillions or at any Cabela’s retail store. 

2012 Skeeter TZX 190 Woes (Cont'd)

Thought I'd put together a summary list of all my 2012 Skeeter TZX (w/ 175 HPDI) woes so that other Skeeter owners can benefit.  Not bashing Skeeter/Yamaha.  Although the list is long, I still don't think there is a better boat sold on the market for the money..and I've previously owned a cheap Nitro and top of the line Ranger.  Here's the list:
a. Carpeting- I have a spot where the carpet was glued on top of a dried blob of fiberglass.  It will probably wear through in time.  For now, I'm leaving it alone because it's near the edge where there is little foot traffic.  On other 2012 TZX 190s, I've heard the carpet had to be re-glued in a spot because it became loose after a hard rain.
b. Side Imaging Transducer Install- the rear sponson design of the TZX 190 does NOT allow the SI transducer to get a good look out either side (port or starboard).  I had to buy a mount for $100, made by www.sternmate.com, to get the SI transducer down & out from the transom to get a better image.  The image out the port side is still not so great (when the engine is trimmed up) because of the E-Ladder.  Image out the starboard side MUCH better than original.
c. Cable bundle routing- the cable bundle routing out of the engine contacts the rear deck lid.  This creates two problems: 1) it's going to wear a hole in the rear deck lid compartment in time and 2) it puts excessive pressure on the cables when the engine is tilted/trimmed up.  In fact, on mine, there was so much pressure on the cables it popped the retaining clip inside the engine holding the throttle cable in place and I lost both my throttle and gear lever.  Had to tow the boat back to the dealer to fix.
d. Rubber Motor Stick- Yamaha/Skeeter introduced a new motor toter called a "motor stick".  This stick of rubber is supposed to fit over the port side trim piston rod to take the stress off the transom when trailering.  Problem is, to install it on the piston you MUST trim the engine to the fullest upright position.  When you do this, it SMASHES the cables (coming off the engine) into the rear deck lid. (see c. above).  Yamaha/Skeeter has a recall on the motor stick.  My dealer replaced the motor stick with the old fashioned motor toter that connects to the lower unit of the engine and rear trailer roller.
e. Humminbird 798 ciHD fishfinder- head unit was defective, had to go back to HB.  New head unit works fine.
f. Fire Extinguisher bracket- dealer installed the Fire Extinguisher  under the driver seat.  The first time I stood up, the back of my sneaker hooked the bracket latch and broke it.  Dealer sent me a new one.  I taped the strap so it can't catch on my shoes/sneakers.
g. Thru the hull transducer Y-cable- Yamaha/Skeeter/Dealer/Whomever did NOT connect a Y-cable from the thru the hull transducer and my SI transducer.  So, when I was up on plane, I had no depth reading at speed since the SI transducer was out of the water.
h. Trailer loading- it is EXTREMELY hard to load boat on shallow/flat ramps.  If the trailer is in the water too far, the bow of the boat will dive under the trailer winch roller.  If the trailer is out of the water too far, the boat bow clip will NEVER come close to the trailer bow roller.  I still can't find the sweet spot after 6 attempts.  I'm going to try to silicone spray the bunks next time.  I'm not concerned with the boat falling off the trailer (because of the slick bunks) because the ramp is so shallow and I NEVER undo the bow clip and backup until the boat transom is in the water.
i. Engine setup- not sure the engine is mounted at the correct height.  Still trying to figure it out.  I'm only getting 61mph GPS with just me (185 lb.), 1/2 tank gas, calm water, mid 60 temps, and light load.  I was counting on 65mph minimum with a 175 hp HPDI engine.
j. Cleats- the pop-up cleats are VERY difficult to pull up. I sprayed them with WD40 and it's a little easier.
k. Lid latches- the hidden lid latches are terrible.  They are VERY difficult to open and very sharp.  I cut my finger on the rear deck lid latch.  Had to take a dremel tool to it to round off the edges.

Wish Yamaha/Skeeter would authorize/ok the use of a jack plate on this boat.  I think it would help eliminate at least 3-4 of the problems I listed.

Fish ON! Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 6/11/12

Absolutely hammered em topwater on Saturday morning with my friend, and Professional Guide, Bill Albright.  That's the nice thing about going with a guide, if there is action to be had, they know where it is.  I'd say in a 4 hr. period we caught at least 12 smallies in the 2-3 lb. range.  It was a lot of fun.
On Sunday, I went out on my own (in the morning) and tried OTHER topwater spots with little success.  In fact, other than the bruiser Striper I caught on topwater (my first in years) the topwater action was non-existent.
Both days, similar weather pattern- overcast skies, little to no wind.  So, I can't see the weather being a big factor on why we caught em good on Saturday and not on Sunday.  Definitely had to do with where we were fishing.
Water temps remain in the high 60s low 70s on both days.  Only fished for 4 hours each day (0600-1000).  When I see or hear the first jetski it's time to get off the Lake.  I detest jetskis..just wasting gas as far as I'm concerned.
Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 6/3/12

Post-Spawn Blues!

Got up at O'dark thirty yesterday morning.  Air Temp 52F, Water Temp 69F, skies clear, little to no breeze.  Fished Goose Pond Cove out of my kayak.  Caught nothing but dinks (red eyes, sunnies, etc.)  Was throwing worms, tubes, etc. (small stuff) because I knew it would be tough fishing.  There was NOTHING on the bank and not even marking much in 12-15 ft. of water.  I know they are there though.  They don't go far after Spawning.  They're just NOT in a positive feeding mode..that's all.  Got off the water by 0930.  Can't say I was too disappointed in getting off the Lake.

Seems like the Smallies are in the "Post Spawn" blues stage right now.  Just three weeks earlier you could catch a limit of fish (good size) in less than an hour.  Now, you'll be happy to catch a single legal size fish in an hour.   Having said that, Bass Fishing Season doesn't open up in Pennsylvania for another couple of weeks..so please Catch/Release (quickly) if you do catch one.

Also, water is up to the high water mark for the season.  It's all downhill from here...lake level wise.

The good news is, the Lake is warming up..and so will the fishing too.  Topwater fishing (for Smallies) is right around the corner.  There is NOTHING better than watching a BIG A$$ Smallie annihilate a Topwater Lure.  Well there is, "landing" it.

I'll be up again this weekend and will be on the water with the BIG boat and will be covering a lot of area.  Fish ON!  Rob

2012 Skeeter TZX 190 woes

The woes continue on my NEW 2012 TZX 190.  This past weekend, I was ALMOST left stranded on my home lake.  Initially, I lost REVERSE.  I was lucky enough to make it back to the launch ramp.  Then, as I was taking my boat out of the water the engine died..no throttle.  I had to have a guy help me muscle-F the boat back onto the trailer.  A trailer that was designed to have the boat powerloaded onto it- not winched.  Ever try to winch a 2000 lb. boat up bunks while lifting the front bow of the boat to clear the trailer roller on the winch?  Aint easy.
Anyway, got the boat out of the water and pulled the engine cowl and looked at the throttle linkage.  Low and behold, the throttle and gear cables have popped off their mounting bracket and were floating inside the engine compartment.  Question is: why did the cables pop off the bracket?  Seems like every time the engine is tilted up, the cables/hoses are jammed into the back of the rear deck of the boat.  In fact, they are jammed right on top of the rear deck (metal) latch.  There is so much force on these cables when the engine is tilted full up that it's starting to wear a hole in my rear deck carpet.
I can only imagine what's going to happen when it's colder and the cables/hoses won't flex as much.  They are either going to crack or break.
I've contacted my dealer and they've contacted Skeeter so we'll see what they say.

Here's a couple photos of the clip that came undone inside the engine compartment:

This is what I believe is causing the problem.  The cables are being jammed down on the rear deck, when the engine is tilted up, causing stress and flexing of the cables inside the engine compartment.  There was obviously so much stress on the plastic clip holding the cables down (inside the engine compartment) that it failed to hold.

You can also see that there is so much force on the rear deck, from the cables being jammed into it, that the carpet is already starting to wear- and I haven't had the boat for more than 3 weeks.

Stay tuned to see what Skeeter says.  Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack fishing report- 5/27/12

Headed out early Sunday morning at 0530.  Air Temp 68F, water temp the same.  Didn't expect much since it was the Holiday Weekend and the boat traffic higher than normal.  Cloudy skies, no breeze.  Started fishing the bank mid-Lake with jigs, worms, tubes, etc.  Nothing on the bank except some rock bass and small bucks.  I pounded the bank pretty good too.  Used Side Imaging and didn't see anything either.  Noticed fish were sitting on the bottom in 12-15 ft. of water.  So, started fishing deeper water.  Within minutes, caught a 4-5 lb. Walleye.  I haven't caught a Walleye at the Pack in years primarily because they like deeper cooler water- especially this time of year.  I'm guessing the water temp at 12-15 ft. was still in the 50s..where they like it.  I got off the Lake at 0930 because I absolutely detest fishing with all the YAKS out on the Lake..and I'm not talking Kayaks..I'm talking pleasure boaters, jet skies, etc.

Speaking of YAKS, I might fish out of my Kayak this weekend because the boat has to go back to the dealer for some engine work.  I lost my throttle linkage this past weekend...and almost didn't make it back to the launch ramp.  I was NOT a happy camper taking my boat out of the water at the launch ramp without any power.  Ever try to winch a 2000 lb. boat onto a trailer where you have to lift the bow over the bow roller with one hand while you're winching with the other?  I had a guy help me, thank God.  Hey, you can still catch some nice size Smallies out of a Kayak.  Can't cover as much water but you can definitely fish an area more thoroughly and stealthier.  I'll have another report next weekend.

Fish ON!  Rob

Lake Wallenpaupack Camera

Here's a cool video cam mounted at Lighthouse Harbor Marina.  I like the weather window below the video image.  It gives up to the minute weather info: http://www.lighthouseharbor.com/Page.aspx/pageId/91090/Marina-Cam.aspx

Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing Report- 5/25/12

Bill, from  www.billsguideservice.com , says: "The Pack is on Fire and catching 80 smallies per day".  Seems like the 2nd wave of Spawners has invaded the shallows from one end of the Lake to the other.  Water temp has also warmed-up to 71F.

I'll be fishing Saturday and Sunday and will have an updated report on Monday.

2012 Wallenpaupack Fishing Reports

Thought I'd post bass fishing reports for the upcoming fishing season since I haven't really seen any noteworthy reports on the internet.  Now that I have a house on the Lake, I'll be fishing "the Pack" more regularly than before.  My reports will NOT specify what lures I'm using.  Nor will they specify what particular spots I'm fishing.  Why?  Because most of the time it's NOT the particular lure that's catching the fish or the spot/location..it's the fisherman. i.e. technique, boat position, time of day, weather, etc. has a LOT to do with catching.  There are just so many variables to list.  Besides, most guys are BSing when they tell you they're killing em on a certain lure.  If they're killing em, why would they tell you?  Especially when the bite is tough.  But, what I will try to do is post information that will help you increase your chances of catching bass. e.g. water temp, moon phase, weather conditions, seasonal patterns, depths, types of lures (swimbaits, tubes, worms, jerkbaits, sp-baits, etc.), colors (that seem to catch more), etc. 

So, a typical (Smallie) report might look something like this:

Date: Saturday, May19th, 2012
Time: 0600-1000
Depth: Primarily 6-10 ft.
Pattern: Pre-spawn/Spawn
Lures: Jerkbaits, Tubes, Jigs
Weather: Clear skies, Sunny/warm, 75F, calm winds, steady barometer
Water Temp: 59F
# Caught: 3
Size: 1.5-3 lbs.
Comments: Light boat traffic.  No fish caught off banks.  Fish were caught staging.  2 bucks and 1 female (female being the largest) caught on Jerkbaits around BIG rocks.

As always, if you REALLY want to catch BIG smallies and/or learn the lake, I highly recommend you give Bill Albright a call and book a guide trip.  You can get his number off his website at: www.billsguideservice.com  Bill has been guiding on the lake longer than anyone I know, and I've been fishing the Lake every year since 1982.  There are a couple other Guide Service's on the Pack but only Bill has the experience to put you on BIG fish.  Bill is a former B.A.S.S. Touring Professional and full-time fishing guide. 

After I post a report on this blog, feel free to reply to the report via the comment section on the bottom.  I'll be headed up to the Pack this Saturday and Sunday to fish, so I'll have a report for you on Sunday night.  Until then, Fish ON!  Rob

Humminbird Side-Imaging Transducer Install (Part II)

Discovered a NEW Humminbird Side-Imaging (SI) transducer mount for my 2012 Skeeter TZX 190.  This new mount, sold by www.sternmate.com, allows my transducer to be lowered deeper in the water column and further away from the transom (and sponsons) giving a better look under the boat- and sideways.  Better look underwater=better resolution on my Humminbird 798.  It also puts the transducer in an undisturbed water column, void of turbulence and air bubbles that can distort images. 

I spoke with Capt. Chris (from SternMate) on the phone BEFORE I purchased the mount to ensure that it would work as advertised and that I could benefit from it.  The best part of the SternMate mount is that NO DRILLING HOLES is required.  The mount is glued to the transom with Special Glue that Capt Chris provides in the install kit.  In fact, the new mount allowed me to fill up and cover all the existing screw holes from removing my original bracket.  It also allowed me to attach both the temp probe and transducer cable to the NEW mount.  Therefore, I saved re-drilling some holes into my brand NEW boat.  The mount can also be removed in the unlikely event that it has to.  You can see the nice clean/professional install and look.  Installation was easy.  Just prep the mount and the transom (with a thorough Isopropyl Alcohol scrub down) and you're ready to mount.  The glue starts setting in 10-15 minutes and cures in 24-48 hrs. (depending on air temp).  The mount aint cheap ($120)..but what is these days that's a "quality" product?   Besides, what's $120 after you spent $1,200 on a Humminbird 798 Side Imaging Fish Finder?

It's hard to see (in the photos) but the mount allowed my SI transducer to be lowered at least 1" deeper in the water and 2" further aft from the transom than the original dealer location.  This combination, down and aft, will allow the transducer to get a "better look", thus better resolution.

Check out the SternMate at www.sternmate.com  I think you'll find this mount worth every penny (like I did).  Not only is it functional..it's good lookin'.  Fish ON!  Rob

Humminbird 798 SI Transducer install on Skeeter TZX 190

Since I bought a 2012 Skeeter TZX 190 there isn't much information available on the internet re: the optimum Humminbird 798 Side Imaging (SI) Transducer location on the transom.  Most Skeeter boat owners have a jackplate with which to install their transducers.  The 2012 TZX 190 does NOT have a jackplate.  Therefore, the only place to install the transducer is on the transom.  The only problem with installing the SI transducer on the transom is that the port & starboard transom sponsons are partially obscuring the view.  See photos below:

Having said all this, what are the options?  In order to clear the transom sponsons, the SI transducer needs to be installed on either the e-Ladder or on a bracket that will extend the SI transducer down and out (away from the transom).  It can't be extended too far from the transom otherwise it will start interfering with the outboard engine (even with the engine trimmed up/out).  The e-Ladder might be a good place to mount it, albeit, you're going to need to pull the ladder and either drill a hole completely through the bracket or tap screw threads into the bracket which would accommodate a screw/bolt.

I'm currently deciding on which of the mounting options I'm going to go with.  I'll post more when I decide what's best.  Fish ON!  Rob

2012 Skeeter TZX 190- First Impressions

Before I give you my first impressions, I'll just preface this blog by saying this is the third bass boat I've owned and probably the 10th different bass boat brand I've ridden in over a 30+ yr. period.

Appearance/Aesthetics/Colors, etc.-  Except for maybe Ranger and Triton, I think Skeeter makes the best looking bass boat.  Yeah, I know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder..but that's just me.  The glass on my boat looks good as well as carpet, trim, paint, etc.  I didn't see any major flaws, imperfections, etc.  I can't tell you how many compliments I got at the dock and out on the boat/water by other boat owners.

Layout-  Can't say I'm too impressed with the layout of the boat..especially the fact that there is NO storage room/area under the seats.  I have to store my anchor in one of the front or rear storage compartments.  I'm not crazy about that thing bouncing around in there.  Having said that, the other storage compartments are fine.  The built-in cooler works fine and is well insulated.  I put ice in the cooler on Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon it had not all melted.  They also put the fire extinguisher right under the drivers feet.  So, when I get up out of the seat the back of my sneaker hooked on to the plastic bracket and broke it off.  What's with that?  The compartment latches are terrible.  They are hard to open and the latches are sharp.  The recessed anchor cleats are terrible too..so hard to lift and they are so small I can barely wrap a rope around it and tie if off.  I cut my finger on either the cleat or compartment latch..not sure.  Pretty deep too.  I'm glad I got the tilt steering wheel because the wheel would normally obstruct the view of my helm/console mounted fish finder.  The front deck is HUGE..much bigger than any other 19 foot bass boat I've been on.

Hot foot- I'm not crazy about the fact that my hand throttle is not able to accelerate only put the boat in gear.  All acceleration is done by the pedal.  I thought I remember on my Ranger the Hot foot and side throttle worked independently. i.e. I could use the Hot foot or use the stick/throttle.  I like that option.

Electronics- My Humminbird Side Imaging could use some fine tuning.  I have to read the manual.  I was also getting some interference on it.  Not sure where that was coming from since nothing was on other than the outboard.  I'll have to look at the SI transducer to see if it's clear of the transom sponsons.  It might be getting bounce-back/feedback from them.  Skeeter has sponsons on the transom that stick out a LOT further than other bass boats.

Ride- the ride was stable and dry.  I can't say it was as comfortable as my old Ranger but my old Ranger was a lead sled. i.e. very heavy with a deeper V than the Skeeter.  The hole shot was much quicker than my Ranger or Nitro probably because it's lighter and I have an 175 hp outboard rather than a 150.  Overall a nice ride!  The boat was running a little tilted to the left (off-balance). I'm not sure why.  My daughter was in the passenger seat and she only weighs 125#.  I weigh 185#.  Granted, the two trolling motor batteries are on her side.  But, that difference shouldn't take it off center that much.  I'll have to look into this more.  I'm sure with just me driving, it would be perfectly balanced.  I'll be fishing by myself primarily so it shouldn't be an issue.

Gauges/switches- all the gauges/switches are well setup at the helm and easy to read..no problems here.  I love the EFI..one turn of the key and the outboard fires right up. I didn't even have to prime the gas line bulb the first time.  Why anyone would get a carbed engine these days is beyond me.  I had a local dealer try to sell me a boat with a Carbed engine that said it's as good as an EFI.  What a joke, and probably the reason I didn't buy a boat from the guy.  How can you say that?

Trolling Motor-  absolutely LOVE my Minn-Kota Fortrex 80 TM.  It's so easy to lift and release.  Plenty of power too.

Trailer-  well, if I had to bitch about one thing..it would be on how HARD it is to load the boat on the trailer.  In order to power load the boat on the trailer you have to have the trailer out of the water further than most bass boats.  Otherwise, the bow and trolling motor will dive right underneath the trailer winch/bow roller.  And, if you don't wet the carpets of the boat when you retrieve your boat, it will make it very difficult to load.  To tell you the truth, I still haven't found the sweet spot on how shallow/deep to back the trailer in.  I'm afraid to pull it too far up the ramp for fear I'll bottom out the prop on the launch ramp or have to throttle so hard the front bow pin will smack the trailer winch and bend something.  I've been tempted to spray the bunks with silicone to see if it will make loading the boat easier.  But, I'm afraid of that..for fear it will be so slippery that it hits the winch roller and slides back in the water before I get the winch strap on the boat.  I'm going to try to wet the bunks first.
The trailer towed VERY well..easy to maneuver and absolutely no sway at any speed.  That's pretty good for a single axle trailer.

Fishing- caught my first Smallie within 10 minutes of launching my boat..so it catches fish..ha.  Really stable platform to fish from.  I haven't used the livewells yet (catch n release).  I won't use them until it's tourney time.  Not going to enter any tourneys anytime soon.  Going to learn how to use everything properly on the boat first- specifically the Side-Imaging Fish Finder.

Overall, I'm VERY happy with the boat.  It doesn't sound like it from my first impression but there's nothing that I can't fix or resolve on the boat..other than a place for my anchor.  Why couldn't Skeeter have allowed space under one of the seats?  I don't think that space is being used for anything.

Stay tuned for a further, in-depth review.  Fish ON!  Rob

Catch n Release

Nope no Smallie (in the photo) but it doesn't matter..it's the same for all species..Bass that is.  Who cares about the other freshwater species..ha.   If we want to preserve the sport of Bass Fishing we need to practice catch n release every time you catch em.  Here are some tips you should be aware of:
1. If/when you do catch a fish, don't slam the fish down in the center of the boat and let it flop all over the floor (especially the carpet).  Every Bass has a protective slime coat that wards off infection and keeps the bass healthy.  You let em flop all over the carpet and that slime coat is gone..not to mention imbedded in your carpet.  No big deal unless you don't clean your carpet when you get home and your boat starts smellin' like a tuna factory in a week.
2. If you're a tournament guy/gal and you have to put the Bass in the livewell until weigh-in, make sure your aerator/recirc pumps are working properly and your fish are getting plenty of water.  Also, throw a release tablet in the livewell.  These oversize pills/tablets contain a sedative for the fish as well as a slime coat preserver.  You can buy them online.  If the water temp is really warm, throw some ice in the livewells occasionally.  The little bit of ice will keep the water temps from getting too hot.
3. If/when you do catch a fish..put em back as soon as possible.  Don't hold the fish on the side of the boat for 5 minutes while you look for your camera.  Don't laugh..I've seen it.  Just because you release your fish at the boat and it swims away doesn't mean that it won't die a couple hours later.
4. If you gut-hook a bass, cut the line and release the fish.  The Bass has a better chance of survival with the hook corroding than you trying to rip it out of its gut with needle nose pliers.
5. Don't throw the fish in the water (unless it's a dink) after you take the hook out of its mouth.  Again, you're stressing the fish out when you do sh$t like that.  Besides, you may think it looks cool..but it doesn't and it's not necessary.  And, I never want to give the morons at PETA an excuse for trying to ban our tournaments.  They already think we mishandle fish and hurt them when we hook them.  How they know that is beyond me.  I guess they were fish in a former life..ha

Moral of the story...take care of the fish you catch and ensure you release em back into their environment with care.  You'll be happy you did in the future because you may catch that same fish again in a tournament..next time 4" longer and 1 lb. heavier.  Tight Lines. Rob
 
BTW, I caught that LM last week in Lake Nockamixon (near my home) on a jerkbait in the weeds.  It doesn't look very big but it went close to 3 lbs.  You can see the weeds hangin' on the side of the boat.

Bill's Guide Service

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention/advertise my long time friend's Bass Fishing Guide Service: http://www.billsguideservice.com/  Bill Albright is a former B.A.S.S. touring pro and currently a full-time bass fishing guide.  Bill guides on many lakes and rivers from the Potomac River in MD to the St. Lawrence River, 1000 Islands in Canada.  He's not only fished these bodies of water but he's had tournaments on them so he knows them well. 

Bill lives in Lake Ariel, PA (near Lake Wallenpaupack).  You can hire Bill for a full-day or a half-day.  See Bill's website for his rates.  For 2012 Bill will be running guide trips out of a brand NEW fully-rigged 21 ft. Ranger 520 bass boat.  This boat has an MSRP close to $60k.  There isn't a finer bass boat on the market.  Plus, the 21 ft. makes it easy to accommodate 2-3 fishermen on guide trips...not to mention the smooth dry ride.

Bill is already taking reservations for the 2012 season and his calenar is filling up fast.  So, don't wait, book your trip now.  Email him at info@billsguideservice.com

Fish ON! Rob

The Greater Philadelphia Outdoor Sportshow

It's really great to get back into bass fishing.  Granted, I don't think I'll ever Tournament Fish like I did back in the early 90s.  It's just too much work/travelling for me.  I used to come home on Friday night after being away all week for work.  Then, frantically hookup my boat, load all my fishing gear in preparation for an 0500 Saturday morning tournament launch.  I usually didn't get into bed BEFORE 11pm on Friday night.  Not to mention that I had to get up at 3a.m. and be on the road to wherever the tournament was (usually a 2 hr. drive).  Follow that up by 8 hrs. on the water in 100F heat, and a 2 hr. ride back home.  Then, once home, the wife wants to go to a movie or out to dinner since I've been away all week.  How I managed to stay married during those years is amazing.  Not to mention being away from my daughter who wasn't even in her teen years.  Now that I look back on it, it wasn't fair to either my wife or daughter..but we managed.  After all, if you love bass fishing as much as I do, you make it work...any way you can.

When I was tournament fishing I took a "scientific" approach to bass fishing.  I didn't care about lures, hotspots, dock talk, etc.  I wanted to learn about bass- EVERYTHING about em. I wanted to know where they lived, what they ate, when they ate, why they ate what they did, etc.  If I could be a bass for a day..I would.  After all, how can you tournament fish for bass if you don't know how they think?  If they even think?  Maybe they just react?  Trust me, there are a LOT of tournament fishermen out there that don't have a clue about any of this.  And, it's a shame.  I can tell you for a fact, knowing Kevin Van Dam and Mike Iaconelli personally, they know these answers and more.  That's why they are the sports best.  They know why bass relate to certain structure.  They know what they eat and when they eat.  They even know why they eat.

So, what's all this have to do with the Greater Philly Sportshow?  These are the places where you can learn from the Pros.  When I started tournament fishing I think I went to EVERY show in a 2 hr. driving radius.  And, I listened to EVERY Pro.  I learned from the best too: KVD, Houston, Klein, Iaconelli, Daves, Martin, etc.  I still remember things they told me.  Just last week I ran into Jimmy Houston at the Harrisburg Show.  He was just window shopping up one of the ailes when I stopped him and shook his hand and told him what a fan I was of his and still remember what he had taught me 15 yrs. earlier.  He was impressed.  And, I can never forget the information Dr. Lauren Hill gave me when I first started.  Dr. Hill was one of the top fish biologists at the time and he studied bass more than any man on the planet.  If you old-timers recall, Dr. Hill was the inventor of the pH/Combo selector which helped you select which bait was most visible to bass based on the water conditions.  The pH meter also helped rule out oxygen deficient and acidic water..where bass avoid.  I learned a lot from Dr. Hill.

When you go to the shows and sit down and listen to the Pros..listen to what they say about bass patterns and techniques used to catch bass.  Don't worry about the lures they use.  They're going to tell you to throw whatever sponsor is sponsoring them.  I'm serious.  But, pay close attention to sizes and colors..because that will be true.  Specifically, learn why fish do what they do.  And, if you're lucky enough to get a guy like KVD or Ike in a seminar, ask them how they break down a new body of water by looking at a good Map.  They'll show you on a good map where fish will be during different times of the year...and trust me..that's half the battle...knowing where they're going to be.  The other half is knowing how to get them to eat your bait.

I'll be there on Sunday meeting my old friends in the business.  It's going to be fun.  I'm also going to sit-in on a couple seminars.  You're NEVER too old or experienced to learn something new.  I'm learning new stuff re: bass fishing every day.  It's fun learning..at least I think it is.  It makes catching them all that more satisfying knowing that you did your homework and you had success..rather than one of your buds telling you to take this bait and fish this point and having NO success.  That's how it usually works out. 

Fish ON!  Rob

2012 Skeeter TZX 190

Well, pulled the trigger last week at the Harrisburg Boat Show and bought the TZX 190.  With all the rebates from Yamaha and Skeeter I got this boat "loaded" for just above the advertised MSRP.  I bought the boat from Towne Marine in Bloomsburg, PA.  Towne is the largest Skeeter dealer in the States.  It's hard to believe..if you've ever been to Bloomsburg before. (BTW, my wife went there for College).

At the show, I spoke with Ron Shaw, B.A.S.S. Touring Pro who was being sponsored by Skeeter and Towne Marine.  Ron went over the entire boat with me and helped me pick some options that he said he would DEFINITELY get if I were him.  Here's what I got on the boat:

a. Upgrade engine from a 150 to 175 hp Yamaha HPDI (2 stroke, fuel injected)
b. Dual console (for my fishing partner and dog..ha)
c. Upgraded Humminbird Electronics at the Console (Side and Down-imaging)
d. Swing-away tongue (need that to fit it in the garage)
e. 3-bank Battery Charger
f. Upgraded wheels (from Chrome to Aluminum)- easier maintenance

There's a couple other things I want to get like a Custom Cover for trailering and a Hamby's Keel Protector.  I had a Hamby's on my 1996 Ranger 461VS and it's worth it's weight in gold.  I might upgrade the Trolling Motor too..we'll see if I have enough cash leftover.  Like I said, I still have to sell my BMW to pay for everything. 

I'm really excited about the boat.  I think this will be my last one.  I don't need anything bigger than this for fishing the Pack (Lake Wallenpaupack).  After all, I'll be fishing at first light and at dusk when the lake is normally like glass.  Even if the lake turns rough, I know this boat will get me back to the dock dry and safe.  I've got a bad back and last thing I need is getting beat up on a Lake.  Besides, my tourney days are over and no need to bury the throttle to get to a fishing spot.  I think this boat will do 65 mph (GPS) with the 175 Yammi...we shall see!

Fish ON! Rob

Skeeter ZX 190

Well, you can't exactly fish very well for smallies without a boat.  And, right now, all I have is my Hobie Outback Fisherman Kayak.  Yes, I know you can fish for smallies from a bank or wade fish in a river.  I've done it before even when I had a boat.  But, you can cover MUCH more with a boat.  I've fished out of all kinds of boats too: canoes, row boats, kayaks, bass boats, pontoon boats, etc.  You name it..I've fished out of it for smallmouth.  But, without a doubt, there is NO BETTER tool for catching smallmouth bass than a good "quality" bass boat.

I say "quality" boats because I've owned some crap before.  Not because I wanted to buy crap but because that's all I could afford.  Trust me, when it comes to "tournament level" bass boats..you get what you pay for.  Only a true tournament fishermen can appreciate that.  If you don't believe me, ask my old fishing partner Kirk about a Tournament on the Potomac River where we "beat the shit" out of my boat trying to get back to the weigh-in on time with a "definite" lunker in the livewell.  When I say "beat" I'm talking: cracked windshields, broken steering mount, broken trolling motor mount, broken rods, etc.

So, who makes a "quality" bassboat?  Ranger, Triton, Skeeter, Nitro (only some models), Bass Cat, etc.  Basically, any boat you see a Bassmaster Pro fishing tournaments out of is a "quality" boat. 

I'm currently looking at a Skeeter ZX 190 or TZX 190.   I have a BMW to sell before I can afford it though.  Until then... 

About Me

4 lb. smallmouth, 5 lb. largemouth (1000 Isles)

I've been bass fishing for 40 yrs. now (I'm 52 at the time of this blog).  I started fishing when I was 12.  To be honest with you I had no clue what I was doing when I started bass fishing.  (Nobody in my family fished)  And, to make matters worse I had no money.  But, I did what I could.  I primarily fished from a row boat at our new house on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mtns. of PA.  I had one rod and one reel and that was a Zebco push-button reel.  No, it didn't have Snoopy painted on it..ha.  I fished primarily with the live bait I could dig up in the woods: worms, salamanders, bugs, etc.  I never really caught anything big..mostly sunfish and an occasional bass off the dock.  When I was in the row boat, I tied on the only lure I owned and that was a Chartreuse Beetle Spin Spinnerbait.  Little did I know at the time, that Pickerel loved Chartreuse.  Therefore, about 50% of the fish I caught were Pickerel (Pike Family). 

When I got out of College in 1982 I finally had money to buy some decent bass equipment.  My college fraternity roommate Kirk Zucal showed me how to fish for bass.  I was amazed at his tackle box- at the time.  It was bigger than the suitcase I owned.  From 1982 to 1986 I think I read just about everything there was to read about bass fishing.  I also attended any bass fishing seminar that came remotely close to my house.  I remember dragging my poor wife to a weekend bass fishing seminar in Hershey, PA.  She was a trooper to go along with me.  I took a particular interest in the science of bass fishing and remember talking to Dr. Loren Hill about fish biology for hours.  I bought my first bass boat in 1986.  It was a Tracker FS180 Fiberglass bass boat.  It was a terrible boat.  It was grossly underpowered, it was a wet rough ride, it was constructed poorly, etc.  But hey, it was mine and that's all I cared about. 

I joined a local bass club (Peace Valley Bass Anglers) in the late '80s.  I didn't win any money in my first year of the club but in my 2nd year I started winning some money.  In my 3rd year of being a member of the club I won my first tournament on the Delaware River.  I also won lunker fish awards on the Potomac River in addition to placing 2nd and 3rd at other Lakes: Hoptacong, Greenwood, Wallenpaupack, etc. 

In the early 90s it was time to trade in my Tracker bass boat for a REAL Tournament Bass Boat.  I bought a Ranger 461VS from my friend, and guide, Bill Albright.   I also gave up on the local bass club tournament scene and decided to fish the Red Man Tournament Trail.  There were only a couple decent fishermen in the local club and winning at the club level didn't mean much to me.  It was like stealing money from a drunk at a bar..since most of the guys fishing these local bass clubs were drunks- I'm serious.  The Red Man trail was an amateur trail and feeder to the B.A.S.S. Professional trail.  Now, I was fishing North from the 1000 Islands, St. Lawrence River South to the Potomac River and everything in-between.  I was also fishing with the BIG BOYS now.  These guys were serious about bass fishing and most of the guys were trying to reach the next (Pro) level.  It was a lot of money and a lot of travelling for me.  I never used my boat in tournaments.  I always went as a rider because it ensured my travelling partner (Bill Albright) the use of his boat for the tourney.  I can't tell you how many bad boaters I was paired with which is why I never got "in the money".   When I pre-fished with my friends I caught a lot of fish..that were BIG fish.  (See photo above)  When I fished the tourney with a boater (picked out of a hat) I caught fewer and smaller fish.  I never really had fun on tournament day.  I gave up tournament fishing and sold my boat because my parents sold their house on Lake Wallenpaupack- my home lake.  I just burned-out of the tournament fishing scene...but I didn't burn-out of bass fishing..it was in my blood. 

Oh, along the way, I got to meet some of the best Pros in Bass Fishing: Kevin VanDam, Mike Iaconelli, etc.  In fact, I befriended Mike Iaconelli and helped him put together one of his first Bass Fishing Seminars out in Harrisburg, PA.   I also put together Mike Ike's website when he first started out on the B.A.S.S. tournament trail.  Now, he has a professional doing his website and it's one of the best on the internet (in my opinion).  And, that was BEFORE Mike Ike was a millionaire like he is today.

In the early 2000's, I bought my Hobie Outback Fishing Kayak and decided to start fishing locally.  I fished Lake Nockamixon (now the Dead Sea) and the Delaware River (the Big D).  I fell in love with the Big D.  I don't think there was one trip where I got skunked- I always caught fish.  I got my brother-in-law Matt hooked on bass fishing too.  At first he was pretty bad.  His technique was bad as well as his equipment.  In recent years, he's gotten MUCH better.  In fact, he may have outfished me a few times.  Nothing wrong with that.  The better he gets the better he'll force me to get.

This year we decided to build on my property on Lake Wallenpaupack.  We had owned the lot for 20+ yrs.   I figured if we weren't going to build anytime soon..we would never.  The house is being built as I'm typing this blog.  We hope it will be done this Summer..weather permitting.   Now, I'm getting the bug to buy another boat.   I'll probably buy something similar to my Ranger 461VS.  I'm looking at a 2012 Skeeter ZX190.  In fact, I think the Skeeter is selling less than the Ranger MSRP'd for back in the late 90's early 00's.  And, that's equally equipped.  Skeeter may not be up to par with Ranger but it's a good boat..much better than Tracker/Nitro.  So, we'll see.

That's it for now.  I'm getting excited to do more bass fishing this Summer...specifically SMALLIE FISHING out of my boat at the Pack and out of my kayak at the Big D.  I'm hoping to get out to the Susquehanna River this Summer too for wade-fishing.  I'll be sure to post a blog of my bass fishing trips and any tips I can pass along.

Smallie Fishing

This is a NEW blog of mine where I'll be sharing information on Pennsylvania Smallmouth Bass Fishing.

I pretty much grew-up on one of the best, if not THE BEST, smallmouth fishing lakes in Pennsylvania (excluding Lake Erie).  That Lake would be "Lake Wallenpaupack" in the Pocono Mtns. of PA.  Lake Wallenpaupack, or "The Pack" for short, is a 13 mile man-made Lake in Northeast PA.  My parents had a house on the Lake for 27 yrs. where I used to fun-fish and tournament fish.  (I had a Ranger Tournament Bass Boat.)  Although the Lake has an abundance of species of fish, it is renowned for its Smallmouth Bass Fishing.  For those of you that fish a lot, you know that (pound-for-pound) there is nothing like hauling in a 3 lb. smallie.  I think that's why I target smallies- because of their spirited fight.  Don't get me wrong, fishing for Largemouths is fun too...but I'd rather catch a 3 lb. smallie than a 6 lb. largemouth...any day of the week.  If you've never caught a big Smallmouth, you need to hire a guide to show you how to do it.  For smallie fishing at the Pack, there is no better guide than my friend, and former B.A.S.S. touring professional- Bill Albright.  You can visit Bill's website at: www.billsguideservice.com 

In addition to the Pack, I regularly fish for smallies on the (non-tidal) Delaware River (aka the Big-D) from Trenton, NJ up to Easton, PA.  That's because the "Big D" is no more than 5 miles from my primary residence in Doylestown, PA.  (I fish the Big D out of my Hobie Outback Fisherman Kayak.)  Although, I don't catch Smallies as big as at the Pack, I catch them more frequently.  That's because the River is not affected as much by the Weather as the Pack is...especially during the Summer months on bluebird days.  I'm not sure who is a "good guide" on the Big D but when I find one..I'll post you the information.

In addition to fishing the Pack and the Delaware River, I also fish the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg, PA for Smallies.  I kid you not, you can catch upwards of 100 smallies a day on the Suskie.  Again, you're not going to catch 3+ lb. smallies but you'll catch a boatload in the 1-2 lb. range.  And, the best part of the Suskie is that you don't need a boat..you can wade fish.   It's really fun.  For me, the Susquehanna River, where the Juniata River dumps into it, is about a 2 hr. ride from my home.  I don't visit it often but when I do..it's always productive.  I don't have any personal friends that guide on the Susquehanna River, but when I do find one I'll be sure to post the information here.

Other than the waters I just mentioned, the only other Lake in PA that is "Smallmouth noteworthy" would be Lake Erie..where you can catch big-ass Smallies.  It's hard for me to call Lake Erie a lake because it's really like the Ocean since it is so big.  I haven't fished Lake Erie yet because it's an 8 hr. drive from my home.  But, one of these days..I'm going to have to bite the bullet and drive up there.  When I do, I'll be sure to post info on this blog.