Kate's Bass

About a 2.5 lb bass that Kate caught awhile back.  Blogspot is having problems uploading videos now and can't seem to fix it.  So, in the meantime, we're just going to have to walk down memory lane here with the striper's cousin, the large mouth or black bass.

In Case You Were Wondering

The world record striped bass was caught September 21, 1982 and was 78 lbs 8 oz...Oklahoma Record 47 lb 8 oz on the Illinois River 1996.

Want to know how to marry your striper?... Learn how to "Tie The Knot"

Since I've been using the Palomar Knot, I have rarely had line break, even with a big fish.  "The" easiest yet strongest knot I've ever tied.  It can even be done in the dark just by feel.  Nice when you're out from 10 pm-12 am as stripers are very nocturnal.  Watch the video here...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmXigW2xRCg

The Gear

I have a Shimano Stradic 6000 but would like to get a Stradic 8000fi.  A great reel is essential for bigger stripers.  Drag is everything when trying to land big fish in a pretty stiff river current.

The line I like to use is Cajun Fire Line.  I use 17 lb test.

As far as hooks go, I like to use a 5/0 size Mustad hook.  That seems to be about the right size.

The Pesky Spoonbill

Swimming side by side the prized striped bass is the pesky spoonbill.  This fish eats small algae plant life and therefore only gets caught by snagging.  Most common when using bucktail jigs.  After about the 3rd one, believe me, you don't snag them on purpose.  They can take you for a ride for sure, however, you would rather use your energy on a 20+ pound striper.

Lazy Afternoon on the Kayak

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlxGWgHfPH4&playnext=1&list=PL95D9B20B53DDDDF4