SeaSonal tIps
The FlipClip in use
CATCHING DEEP BASS
Bass caught deeper than approximately 20-feet deep often suffer problems when brought to the surface. This is called barotrauma, or an overinflated air bladder. it is similar to a scuba diver suffering from “the bends”. While dangerous, it can be prevented with some care and a little education.
greater survival rate for fish fizzed in the side. it is more difficult than fizzing through the mouth, yet may help prevent mortality. if you are fishing deep, you owe it to the fish to learn how to properly fizz the fish.
ALTERNATIVE METHODS
an alternative to the needle is a product called the FlipClip. This product is designed to be attached to the anal fin of bass while they are in the livewell. it is basically a weighted clip designed to stabilize the fish. one of the biggest problems with deep bass is that they continuously attempt to dive back to the depths, which results in them becoming tired and eventually they wear out and this can prove to be fatal. The FlipClip solves the problem and the method is very simple to use and reduces the risk of bass being harmed by errant needles. The weighted design allows the fish to stay upright and allows the bladder to depressurize naturally. Summer fishing requires more work to ensure your fish survive. By taking these precautions and doing your part to save the fish, you can increase the chance that your bass will live to fight another day.
NEEDLE IN THE SIDE OR THE MOUTH?
tournament anglers definitely have a vested interest in keeping the fish alive. aside from the obvious fact that they want to preserve the resource, the fact is that a dead fish can be the difference between a payday and a “just missed a check” finish. With that being said, tournament anglers are among the best at using a needle to deflate bass. There are two ways to do it; through the mouth or the side. a study done by the texas Parks and Wildlife department showed that there was a 14 percent
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