Name That fish!

These brutes are considered one of the greatest fighting fish in freshwater and can grow to more than 50 pounds. They are known for their fierce strikes on top water lures and flies.

Name that fish!

UPDATE: Black Bass is correct (although they call this one a Spot Tail Bass). They are commonly found in Papua New Guinea. Both the black and spot tail bass are members of the family Lutjanidae, commonly known as freshwater snappers. Nice job Eric! (AGAIN!)

Picture and report at: Fishing In Baia

Dark Blotches On Bass

This is the first I’ve heard of this strange condition that can affect both smallmouth and largemouth bass. Little is known about the cause of these markings even though this condition was first observed in the 1980s. It is believed that this hyperpigmented melanosis may be a result of catch and release or is a natural defense mechanism against environmental contaminants. There isn’t a lot of conclusive evidence to support either theory 100 percent, but considering both pollutants and catch and release have increased over the years, you expect that these blotches would be extremely common by now.

“The marks seem to eventually disappear, suggesting they may be part of a skin or slime repairing process. I’ve also noted that they seem to disappear faster from smaller adult bass. The largest fish seem to hold them for at least two years.”

More about the Bass Blotch Mystery at WMI

via OFNC

Continue reading “Dark Blotches On Bass”…

Giant Grouper Breaks Rod

I’ve managed to break a few rods in my day (more on that another day), but never on a fish. From the size of this grouper, I’m not surprised it shattered this guys rod!

Giant Pike Illustration

I’ve read legendary tales of giant pike swimming European waters hundreds of years ago. I love the idea of there being humongous versions of the fish we catch today, but until I see some real evidence I can only assume that sea monsters like this simply don’t exist, and probably never have. I stumbled across the art work of John Sibbick the other day while doing some pike research and this illustration jumped right out at me. A giant pike from a Finnish folk tale.

It’s a great image, but if you want to be technical, its actually a muskie (judging from the pointed fins).

via John Sibbick

Cheap Bolt Hook Cutters

Typically bolt cutters are used primarily by pike and musky fisherman. When a big toothy fish is hooked deep, often the best option for the fish (and you) is to simply cut the hooks and get the fish back in the water with minimum stress. Of course, situations needing cutters may come up with any species, or may even come in handy removing a hook from your hand. Every fisherman should have a good set, and in Canada, Canadian Tire has a nice set of 8 inch bolt cutters for $4.99. Now these may not cut some of the larger size musky hooks, but they cut through a 4/0 hook (I just tried!).

If you live in Canada, near a Canadian Tire, there is not reason you shouldn’t go buy these ASAP. (unless of course you have some cutters)

Click the pic.

Sale ends May 29, 2009.
via OFNC

Swivel Fail

I posted this image in the forums but I don’t think anyone took a close look at it. This photo was taken by a fellow named Ed that I met while fishing on Sunday.

This 25″ or so pike hit really hard and some how was able to mangle the snap swivel on the end of my leader. I did my best to tire this guy out and keep my line tight so that he wouldn’t get away. Right up until I got him almost on shore and grabbed him he flipped back into the water and swam away with a fresh piece of Mepps bling still in his mouth.

It was a horrible start to a beautiful day. Later we saw a couple smaller pike following our baits all the way up to the shoreline, but no other pike were caught. I’ve also updated the Toronto Islands 2009 photo gallery to include some new photos!

Don’t forget about the latest FLW Trivia Contest!