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Here’s what we got for you today:

• A swimbait fishing strategy that you can take from lake to sea 🐟

• How a disaster in Washington caused a commercial net-pen fishing ban ⚠️

• Find out if caviar actually tastes good: 🤮 or 😊

• Scroll To The Bottom - we have an unreal referral program and offer rewards for ONLY 1 referral 💸

🎣 One Setup to Rule Them All: Swimbait Fishing Made Simple with Gulp! Alive

Swimbait fishing doesn’t have to be complicated, and the beauty of this setup is that it works wonders in both saltwater and freshwater. Whether you’re chasing bass in a murky lake or speckled trout along the coast, this rig is versatile, affordable, and incredibly effective. Let’s dive in.

The Gear:

1. Rod and Reel: A medium-action spinning rod (7-foot length) paired with a 2500-3000 size spinning reel is perfect. This combo offers the flexibility to handle the fight from both freshwater predators and saltwater surprises. (And let’s be honest, it’s also light enough that you won’t look ridiculous if you hook a small perch instead of a trophy fish.)

2. Line: Go with a 10-15 lb braided mainline and tie on a 12-20 lb fluorocarbon leader. The braid provides sensitivity and casting distance, while the fluoro leader ensures stealth in clear water.

3. Jighead: A 1/8 to 1/4-ounce jighead is your best friend here. Choose weights based on water depth and current conditions. Just don’t drop it on your toe—those things are heavier than they look.

The Star of the Show: Gulp! Alive baits are your secret weapon. These biodegradable swimbaits are infused with a powerful scent that fish can’t resist. For this setup, the 3” or 4” Gulp! Alive Minnow is the go-to choice. They come pre-soaked in attractant, so even the most finicky fish will take the bait. (It’s like the fish version of a buffet with unlimited shrimp.)

How to Rig It:

1. Thread the Gulp! Minnow onto the jighead so it sits snug and straight. Make sure the hook exits cleanly through the bait’s back for a natural swimming action. (Crooked rigs catch more weeds than fish, so take your time!)

2. Tie the jighead to your fluorocarbon leader using a strong knot like the improved clinch or Palomar.

Fishing Technique:

• Freshwater: Cast near structure like submerged logs, weed edges, or docks. Use a steady retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic a wounded baitfish.

• Saltwater: Work it along grass flats, jetties, or shallow reefs. Add a few twitches to your retrieve to entice strikes.

Why It Works: The Gulp! Alive Minnow’s scent disperses in the water, drawing fish from a distance. Paired with the jighead’s lifelike action, it’s effective for everything from largemouth bass to redfish.

Pro Tip: Always return your Gulp! baits to the jar after use to keep them fresh and ready for your next trip. (Leaving them out is like forgetting to put the milk back in the fridge—just don’t do it.)

With this simple swimbait setup, you’re ready to tackle any fishing adventure. So grab your gear, and get ready for the good stuff.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

• Commercial net-pen fish farming has been banned in Washington after 250,000 non-native Atlantic Salmon escaped through broken nets in 2017.

• After two years of no fishing to preserve the population, Snow Crab fishing is returning to Alaska.

• How to rig a swimbait on a jig head:

• A super random video, but relevant for today’s newsletter: check out this X-ray image of a swimbait.

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