Freshwater fishing gear guides for anglers of every level

Better gear. More time on the water.

Clear guides to rods, reels, lures, line and knots for freshwater anglers, from first trips to weekend bass outings.

Latest guides

Fishing Basics

How to Catch Panfish: Bluegill, Crappie and Perch for Beginners

A beginner guide to catching panfish like bluegill, crappie and perch, including where to find them, gear, live bait, small lures, seasonal patterns and…
Tackle & Gear

Fishing Pliers and Tools: What Every Angler Should Carry

A guide to fishing pliers and essential tools, including pliers features, line cutters, hook removers, lip grips, landing nets, measuring tools, knives and how…
Lures & Baits

Live Bait Basics: Worms, Minnows, Crickets and How to Use Them

A beginner guide to live bait fishing, including worms, minnows, crickets and leeches, how to hook them, bobber and bottom rigs, keeping bait alive…
Lures & Baits

Soft Plastic Rigs Guide: Texas, Carolina, Wacky, Ned and Drop Shot

How to rig soft plastics for bass and other species, including Texas rigs, Carolina rigs, wacky rigs, Ned rigs and drop-shot rigs, with hooks,…
Rods & Reels

How to Choose a Fishing Rod: Length, Power, Action and Materials

A guide to choosing a fishing rod, including rod length, power and action, materials, guides, handles, spinning versus casting rods and matching a rod…
Rods & Reels

Baitcasting vs. Spinning: Which Setup Is Right for You?

Compare baitcasting and spinning setups, including ease of use, casting accuracy, lure weights, line types, backlash, power and which setup to choose for bass…