Satisfy Your Thirst for Fishing ? 3 Parts to the Fishing Cocktail

Everyone who fishes either for sport or fun knows that while fishing itself is simple, catching fish is not. There are times when we think we have it all figured out, then days go by without as much as a nibble. What has happened, did we lose our expertise? Are the fish getting smarter? Maybe it's the weather. In fact there are many factors that weigh into whether we are catching fish or just passing time. Even though there are many factors, I would argue there are only 3 main parts to pouring ourselves the perfect fishing cocktail. Since drink names such as "Sex on the Beach" and "Fuzzy Navel" have already been taken, may I suggest "Fish on a Hook?" The drink may be made with any combination of the ingredients. They do not have to be of equal parts, but to make a "Fish on a Hook" all 3 must be present. So put your barkeeper's hat on and let's start.

The first part of our drink consists of bait selection. Now I can hear you out there, "I can think of at least 10 factors which go into catching a fish." This is true, but many are just sub-factors of choosing the main ingredients. For part 1 of our drink, we must ask questions like; "Who is our customer?" and "What do they like?" If our cocktail is being served in a high class restaurant or club, we need to use top-shelf liquor only. This will of course cost more, but that's what these customers want. On the other hand, if we're drinking at the local pub and money is of concern, cheaper brands of the same liquor may do the trick. Some will like their drinks made strong, others will want a better tasting, yet lower in alcohol version. Now, what does any of this have to do with the price of tea in china? KNOW YOUR FISH. Does it like jumping for top-water lures, or picking at slow moving soft baits across the bottom? What's its main source of attraction? Some fish are attracted by sight to bright flashy objects, while others tend to follow their nose. Not only knowing what the fish like, but knowing when they like it, as well as adjusting for water temperature and weather conditions are also important factors to consider. A little research goes a long way in picking the right bait. This is a great start but we're not quite ready to start drinking yet.

Part two of the "Fish on a Hook" recipe is technique. There are many techniques available in creating the perfect drink; "Shaken not stirred" is just one. Drinks can also be made hot, cold, or frozen. Fishermen also use varying techniques in their efforts. Whether quick popping a top water lure, fly fishing, or slow reeling through the vegetation, many of the same sub-factors which go into bait selection are also relevant here. We must consider the aggressiveness of the fish, whether they are active or lethargic. Their location,in open water or along the bank,is important in choosing the appropriate technique. "What bait am I using?" is of course another important element. Getting thirsty?

Some will say you don't need this final part to make a "Fish on a Hook", that if you poured the first two parts just right, number 3 is unnecessary. I beg to differ. The third and equally important ingredient is luck. There I said it. Good or bad, weekend warrior or professional angler, everyone needs a little. Ever been fishing with a buddy using the same bait and same technique, yet you are catching fish and they're not, or vise-versa? What's the difference? Is it that there's more fish on his side of the boat or a few feet down the bank? Perhaps, but I say it is luck. It's either good for you or bad for him, but it's luck just the same. Some need half a glass, some just a splash to take the edge off, but like I said, everyone needs a little.

There you have it. Mix bait selection with technique,add some luck ,and there you have a perfect "Fish on a Hook". Tasty isn't it? "Wait a minute," you say, "it can't be that easy." "What about fishing gear?" "What about my fish finder and GPS?" "What about my rod selection and reel choice?" ? Valid questions all. I just make the drinks; you have to decide how to serve them. "Will that be in a tall or short glass?" "Straight up or on the rocks?" "With salt or without?" ? you get the point. Personally, I'll take mine any way you make it.

M. L. Kilby is a part-time writer and website administrator for: HTTP://bluelaketackle.com. He along with his father are avid fishermen who own and operate Blue Lake Tackle, LTD.

---

Fishing The Henrys Fork....Bobs Secret Hole...

Meanwhile back at the Yurt...Having been humbled by "Hank's" famous... Read More

Fishing Equipment Tips

Cheap SinkersSpark plugs make excellent disposable sinkers. Need some cheap... Read More

Tastes Like Chicken!

For the most part, I am an advocate for catch... Read More

Why The Moon Is Your Key To Night Fishing Success

Want To Catch More Fish At Night, Watch the Moon!Sounds... Read More

Saltwater Fly Fishing in Washington State

When most people think of saltwater fly fishing their minds... Read More

Fish Cooking Basics - How to Transform Those Fish You Just Caught into a Wonderful Seafood Dinner

Fish Cooking Basics I must admit that I... Read More

Lucky Hat

Do you have a lucky hat?It was a beautiful warm... Read More

Fort Lauderdale Sport Fishing Charters - The Perfect Way To Get Away

Whether it's the peaceful and serene beauty of being on... Read More

6 Things You Must Do If You Want To Have The Secret To Catching More Trout

It has always been my private conviction that any man... Read More

Take a Kid Fishing

Take a kid fishing and they will learn to be... Read More

A Guide to Non-Typical Catfish Fishing Techniques

IntroductionMany of the people about to take one of my... Read More

Lake Trout On The Fly

The name Lake Trout lends a slight misnomer to the... Read More

The Challenge of Brown Trout Fishing

Brown trout fishing can prove very challenging. This is due... Read More

Why Do You Need a Tacklebox?

A tacklebox or a tackle bag is... Read More

General Overview About Trout Senses

When fly fishing for trout, it is of crucial importance... Read More

We Can Put A Fish On The Moon

This aint exactly rocket scientry boys...I picked up a copy... Read More

No Boat? Join Your Local Bass Club

Having been an avid basser for years, and not having... Read More

Fishing Fall Bass - Early Fall Fishing for Bass in the Northwest as the Seasons Change

You have just rolled out of bed, poured you coffee... Read More

Trout Species ? Brook Trout

Brook Trout: Frequently gullible, yet extremely tasty, Brook Trout are... Read More

Importance of Artificial Light While Swordfishing

The use of light, either chemical or battery powered plays... Read More

The Truth About Night Fishing

Why Night Fishing Beats Day Fishing Any Day of the... Read More

Trout Species ? Cutthroat Trout and Golden Trout

Cutthroat Trout: Cutthroat Trout are generally found only in high... Read More

Brook Trout, One of Canadas Most Loved Trout

Brook trout are one of the most popular game fish... Read More

The Wet Fly Swing

The wet fly swing sounds like something one does at... Read More

Four Fly Fishing Tips

Good Fly PresentationObviously, the goal when casting a fly is... Read More