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Here’s what we got for you today:

• Three guaranteed tactics to catch more fish with nightcrawlers 🐛

• Netflix has a must watch fly fishing movie (currently 77% on Rotten Tomatoes) 🎥

• A Striped Bass recipe that is 🔥 

• Scroll To The Bottom - we have an unreal referral program and are giving away free Early Bird Fishing stickers, neck gaiters, and boonie hats 💸

Three Ways To Rig A Nightcrawler To Catch More Fish

Fishing with nightcrawlers is a time-tested method that can yield impressive results. Here are three surefire ways to rig a nightcrawler to enhance your fishing game:

1. Wacky Rig

The wacky rig is a straightforward yet highly effective method. Simply hook the nightcrawler through the middle using a size 4 or 6 hook. This lets both ends of the worm dangle and wiggle enticingly. The natural, erratic movement drives fish, especially bass, wild. This rig works wonders in clear waters and around structures like submerged logs or rocks where fish like to hide.

2. Carolina Rig

The Carolina rig is a go-to for fishing in deeper waters. First, thread a bullet or egg sinker onto your mainline, followed by a bead to protect your knot. Tie a swivel to the end of the mainline, then attach a 12 to 24-inch leader to the swivel. Finally, hook the nightcrawler through the head with a size 2 to 4 hook. This setup allows the worm to move freely above the bottom, creating an irresistible presentation for species like catfish and bass. It's particularly effective over sandy or muddy bottoms.

3. Threaded Worm Rig

The threaded worm rig is ideal for presenting a nightcrawler in a lifelike, straight manner. Use a worm threader or a long, thin needle to rig this. Insert the needle into the worm's mouth and thread it through the body, exiting near the tail. Attach the hook to the threader or needle, then pull the worm onto the hook. This method keeps the worm straight, reducing unwanted spinning in the water that can deter fish. It's a fantastic technique for targeting trout and walleye, especially in moving waters.

Each of these rigging methods offers unique advantages based on the fishing conditions and the species you're after. Mastering these techniques with nightcrawlers can significantly boost your chances of a successful day on the water.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

• A 10 minute reel of fish reacting to nightcrawlers underwater. The water is ridiculously clear, so you can see in HD these nightcrawlers getting chomped on.

• This is on our watch list for this weekend - a story about a veteran experiencing PTSD that is introduced to fly fishing. It’s currently on Netflix and you can watch the trailer here.

• Cabela’s just kicked off their Father Day’s Sale now through June 16. Go grab Dad the good stuff!

• One of the best articles we have ever seen on the history of Striper fishing with spoons. Well worth the read if you have time.

AI CORNER

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CHEF’S KISS

🦀 A seafood boil ASMR video that is giving the Early Bird Fishing team mixed feelings. Part jealousy. Part disgusted.

🐚 Watch this guy eat a giant sea urchin. Hopefully they taste better than they look.

🐟 A sub 30 min recipe for Striped Bass. Olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika - simple and gets the job done.

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