Rise and shine. This is Early Bird Fishing. Prepare for world class fishing instruction, stories, and news, in less than 5 minutes.

Here’s what we got for you today:

• Other than being a better bang for your buck, find out why lighter fishing line is the move 💵

• This spring we’re thinking about fly fishing for bass 🌸

• See some brown and black bears fishing in the wild 🐻

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

🎣 The Argument For Lighter Fishing Line

When it comes to fishing line, bigger isn’t always better. Sure, heavy line might make you feel invincible, but dropping down a few pounds can actually increase your chances of hooking (and landing) more fish. Here’s why:

1. Stealth Mode Activated

Fish aren’t dumb—they see that thick line trailing behind your bait like a neon sign. Lighter line, especially in clear water, is much harder for fish to detect, giving you a serious advantage when targeting line-shy species.

2. More Bang for Your Buck

Fishing line isn’t cheap, and the heavier you go, the more you pay. Lighter line costs less per spool, meaning you can afford to respool more often and keep your setup fresh without breaking the bank.

3. A Better Fight

Hooking a big fish on light line is pure adrenaline. Instead of just muscling it in, you’ll have to play the fish, let it run, and wear it down. This makes for a more exciting fight and sharpens your angling skills in the process.

4. Fine-Tuning Your Drag Matters

Using light line forces you to get your reel’s drag dialed in just right. Too tight, and you’ll snap off. Too loose, and the fish takes you for a ride. Mastering drag control means you’ll lose fewer fish—and become a better angler overall. Here’s how to tell if your drag is set right:

1. The Pull Test – Before casting, pull the line from the reel with your hand. It should come off smoothly with steady resistance—not too tight, not too loose. If it jerks or barely moves, loosen it up. If it zips off with no effort, tighten it slightly.

2. The 25-30% Rule – A common rule of thumb: set your drag to about 25-30% of your line’s breaking strength. If you’re using 8 lb test, your drag should release at around 2-2.5 lbs of pressure. A small spring scale can help you check.

3. Test on a Hook Set – Hook your line onto something solid (like a scale, fence post, or your buddy’s hand—if they’re brave) and give it a quick tug, like you’re setting a hook. The drag should give slightly, but not let out too much line.

4. Adjust Mid-Fight if Needed – If a fish is peeling drag too easily, tighten it slightly. If the line keeps snapping, loosen it up. Light line requires finesse, so small adjustments during the fight can make all the difference.

5. Listen to Your Reel – The sound of your drag tells you a lot. A smooth, steady clicking means it's set well. No sound? Too tight. Screaming drag? Too loose. Get to know your reel’s sweet spot by practicing with different settings.

By fine-tuning your drag, you’ll lose fewer fish, break off less often, and enjoy every battle. A well-set drag can turn a near-loss into your best catch of the day.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you’re spooling up, think twice before grabbing that heavy-duty line. A little less weight can go a long way.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

• Is it worth it to shed the extra $$$ for fluorocarbon fishing line?:

• ​With spring nearly among us and water temperatures hitting the 60s, bass emerge from their beds, ravenous and ready to strike at topwater flies. Try something new and equip yourself with a 7 or 8-weight rod, a simple 20 lb monofilament leader, and noisy bass bugs to experience unforgettable springtime fly fishing action.

• You can’t find this in your local bait and tackle store:

AI CORNER

Every week we generate fishing related AI images. See the coolness/weirdness below:

💋 CHEF’S KISS - RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Smoked fish, but without a smoker? Sign us up: