Fluorocarbon v Monofilament

Chris McCredden

Selecting the appropriate fishing line—whether fluorocarbon or monofilament—requires an understanding of their distinct characteristics, tailored to the specific fishing scenario. Fluorocarbon, celebrated for its near-invisibility underwater, becomes the line of choice when transparency is paramount. This attribute proves invaluable in clear water conditions, where fish

are easily spooked, and a stealthy presentation is crucial. The refractive index of fluorocarbon closely mimics that of water, rendering it inconspicuous to fish and increasing the likelihood of attracting more bites. Anglers who engage in finesse fishing or pursue species renowned for their wariness often find fluorocarbon to be a game-changer.

Monofilament lines on the other hand offer a different set of advantages, making them suitable for specific situations. With greater stretch, buoyancy, and flexibility compared to fluorocarbon, monofilament excels in scenarios where a bit of line give is beneficial. Topwater lures, for instance, benefit from the buoyancy of monofilament, allowing them to stay afloat and
maintain their action effectively. Additionally, the stretch in monofilament proves advantageous when using certain techniques like crankbait fishing, providing a level of forgiveness that can prevent hooks from tearing out during a sudden strike.

The choice between fluorocarbon and monofilament becomes pivotal when considering shock absorption. Monofilament's inherent stretch makes it an excellent candidate for scenarios where shock absorption is crucial, such as trolling or when targeting hard-hitting species that may make powerful runs. The extra flexibility in monofilament serves as a cushion, reducing the risk of breaking the line under intense pressure.

Understanding the fishing environment and the behavior of the target species is paramount in making the right line selection. In situations where the primary goal is to remain unseen underwater, fluorocarbon takes the lead. Its low visibility and excellent abrasion resistance make it a preferred choice when finesse and precision are required. In contrast, when versatility and forgiveness are key, monofilament steps into the spotlight.

Ultimately, successful anglers often carry a variety of lines in their arsenal, recognizing that each has its own strengths suited to specific conditions. Adapting to the demands of the fishing scenario, whether it be the clarity of the water, the behavior of the fish, or the type of lures employed, allows anglers to optimize their chances of success and enhance their overall fishing experience.

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Seeing red... From a Trout's perspective.

Chris McCredden

Why the colour red is my favorite when targeting Trout.

The influence of the color red on the behavior of Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout  is significant due to their distinct visual capabilities and ecological adaptations.

Red, being a highly visible color in the upper water column, often attracts the attention of both Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout. However, the response and behavioral effects can differ between these species. Rainbow Trout typically exhibit a higher sensitivity to red wavelengths compared to Brown Trout. This heightened sensitivity can cause them to display increased curiosity or aggression towards red-colored objects or bait. 

For Rainbow Trout, red objects may evoke feeding responses, as they associate this color with prey like small crustaceans or aquatic insects. Fishermen often use red colored lures or baits to attract Rainbow Trout due to this inclination.

On the other hand, Brown Trout are known for their wariness and cautious behavior. Instead, their response to red might be more subtle and context-dependent. In some cases, they may show interest in red objects, especially if these objects resemble potential food sources.

The perception of red in these trout species is intertwined with their natural environment and feeding behaviors. Factors such as water clarity, light conditions, and the availability of natural food sources also influence their responses to the color red. Additionally, individual variability within the species can lead to different reactions to red stimuli.

Understanding the behavioral responses to red coloration in Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout can aid anglers and researchers in developing effective fishing techniques, studying fish behavior, and designing artificial baits that cater to the preferences and behaviors of these species.

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Don't underestimate "lure confidence"

Chris McCredden
Confidence in selecting and using specific fishing lures holds immense importance in the context of Australian angling techniques. Whether it's a hard-body lure like the Scout45 or a Brawler Baits soft plastic, having unwavering faith in your chosen lure can significantly enhance your fishing success.

BruceIn the realm of fishing, especially tournament fishing, confidence plays a pivotal role in shaping an angler's approach. It fosters patience by encouraging anglers to persistently work their preferred lure, meticulously altering retrieval styles, depths, and presentations. This persistence becomes crucial, particularly when faced with challenging conditions or sluggish fish activity.

Moreover, confidence in a particular lure amplifies an angler's intuition. Seasoned  anglers often develop an instinctive understanding of how their favored lure behaves under varying water conditions. This familiarity empowers them to swiftly adapt, fine-tuning techniques based on subtle environmental cues such as water temperature shifts, diverse underwater structures, and the unique behavioral patterns of native fish species.


The psychological aspect of confidence cannot be underestimated. When anglers have faith in their chosen lure, they approach their fishing with a relaxed and focused mindset. This self-assuredness reduces self-doubt, minimizes stress, and enables anglers to fish more effectively, significantly increasing their chances of enticing strikes.

Furthermore, a confident angler emits positive energy, which can be contagious among fishing companions. This positivity not only improves the individual's fishing experience but also elevates the overall atmosphere of the fishing trip for everyone involved.

Ultimately, confidence in a specific lure is an invaluable asset for anglers. It impacts their patience, intuition, mindset, and the overall enjoyment of their fishing excursion. While exploring diverse lures remains part of the thrill of angling, cultivating confidence in one's chosen bait elevates the fishing experience to new heights of success and pleasure.

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Finding New Ground From Above

Chris McCredden

 

Google Earth stands as a game-changer for anglers, offering a remarkable platform to uncover and explore potential fishing spots from the comfort of their homes. This tool, with its detailed satellite imagery and intuitive interface, empowers fishing enthusiasts to discover hidden treasures and reel in prized catches. Here's an in-depth guide on how to effectively use Google Earth to identify new and promising fishing locations.

Google Earth ScreenshotBegin by utilizing the high-resolution satellite imagery on Google Earth to survey nearby bodies of water. Look for lakes, rivers, ponds, or coastlines that exhibit features indicative of fish habitats. Pay close attention to visible structures such as submerged vegetation, rocky outcrops, drop-offs, and shallow areas, as these are known to attract fish.


Zoom in and use the pan tools to examine specific areas in detail. This close-up view allows you to scrutinize underwater terrain, identify potential fishing hotspots, and recognize underwater structures that might serve as fish shelters. Analyzing the landscape helps in strategizing your fishing approach before heading out.

Take advantage of Google Earth's option to view historical satellite imagery. This feature enables you to observe changes in water levels, vegetation growth, and seasonal variations. By studying past images, you can discern how a fishing spot evolves throughout the year, aiding in determining the best times to fish there.

Make use of the measurement tools available on Google Earth. Measure distances and depths to understand the size of a fishing spot, estimate the distance from the shore, or determine the depth of a lake or riverbed. This information assists in selecting the appropriate fishing gear and tactics for the location.

Combine the information gleaned from Google Earth's imagery with local fishing knowledge. Engage with online fishing forums, read fishing reports, or connect with local anglers to gather insights about specific locations. This helps in cross-referencing and validating your findings on Google Earth.

Employ the marking and saving features of Google Earth. Drop pins or create markers on the map to identify potential fishing spots. Save these locations with descriptive notes for future reference when planning fishing trips.

Plan your fishing expedition by mapping out the best routes to reach your chosen spots. Identify access points, parking areas, and potential obstacles that might affect your journey. This proactive planning ensures a smooth and efficient fishing excursion.

Supplement your Google Earth exploration with other fishing-related apps or tools. Weather forecasting apps, tide charts, and fishing-specific maps can complement the information gathered from Google Earth, enhancing your overall fishing experience.

In essence, Google Earth serves as an indispensable tool for anglers in discovering new fishing spots. Its comprehensive satellite imagery and user-friendly interface empower fishermen to scout, analyze, and plan their fishing adventures with precision and confidence, ultimately leading to the discovery of hidden fishing havens and increased chances of landing that elusive trophy fish.

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Mastering the Art of Lure Colour

Chris McCredden
In the intricate tapestry of angling, the colour of your lure stands out as a critical factor in achieving fishing success. Beyond the basics of bait and tackle, understanding the impact of lure colour in different conditions can significantly enhance your chances of catchin that elusive trophy catch.

In clear, sunlit waters, the importance of choosing the right lure colour cannot be overstressed. Opting for bright and vibrant hues like chartreuse or orange can replicate the appearance of lively prey, effectively grabbing the attention of fish from a distance. The reflective properties of these colours create a lure that stands out in the clarity of the water, enticing curious fish to strike. This strategy is particularly effective for species that rely on sight to hunt.

Conversely, when faced with overcast skies or murky waters, a shift to darker lure colours such as black or brown can be a game-changer. These tones create a more visible silhouette against the muted backdrop, making it easier for fish to detect and strike. The contrast provided by darker lures is especially advantageous in low-light conditions.

Consideration of the local prey in the area is paramount. Matching your lure color to the prevalent baitfish in the ecosystem can fool the target species into thinking your offering is a natural and appetizing meal. Mimicking the local forage not only increases the chances of attracting fish but also triggers their predatory instincts.
Moreover, the depth at which you are fishing introduces another layer of complexity to the lure colour equation. Light penetration diminishes with depth, altering the way colors are perceived underwater. To counter this, selecting lure colours that are visible at various depths is crucial. Bright colours like yellow and red tend to disappear at greater depths, making them poor choices for deep-water fishing. Experimenting with colour variations and observing how they appear at different depths can provide invaluable insights into the preferences of the fish in that specific environment.

Time of day is another critical variable influencing the effectiveness of lure colour. As the sun changes its position in the sky, the angle and intensity of light can impact how fish perceive colours. In the early morning or late evening, when the sun is low on the horizon, using warm-coloured lures like orange or gold can mimic the hues of a sunrise or sunset, potentially triggering feeding behavior.

Adaptability is the hallmark of a successful angler. A willingness to experiment with various lure colours based on weather conditions, water clarity, and the time of day can be the key to unlocking a successful day on the water. Observing the responses of different species to specific colours in a given setting allows for the development of a personalised approach that increases your chances of a memorable catch.

The importance of lure colour cannot be overstated in the world of fishing. The art lies in recognising the dynamic interplay of environmental factors and adjusting your approach accordingly. By understanding how lure colour influences fish behaviour in different conditions, anglers can elevate their skills and turn an ordinary day of fishing into an extraordinary adventure.

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