Many novices try to go out the first few times fishing for bass using lures and techniques that are just not suited for the beginning angler. This often causes the new bass angler to quickly lose interest in the sport and give up entirely to soon before actually learning the techniques.

For starters don't run out and buy the most expensive gear you can get, or fill a tackle box up with all sorts of lures. This will only add to your frustration and confusion. An inexpensive spinning combo from a reputable manufacturer will be fine. Next, make sure to use 8 to 10 lb test line on your reel. Many starter combos already come with this spooled on the reel.

Now for the business end of your set-up. Bass have BIG mouths. Hence their name largemouth bass. Even smallmouth bass have a big maw compared to most gamefish. This requires that you get a decent sized sharp hook. A package of 2/0 or 3/0 off-set shank hooks are a good start.

Lure Selection

Try to use lures that are easiest to cast and made to appear lifelike.

These would fall in the range of 3-7 inch rubber worms, 3-6 inch rubber minnows, spinnerbaits, and shallow running crankbaits. Using top water frogs/rats, prop baits, jigs, buzzbaits, and even some deeper running crankbaits, spoons or larger spinnerbaits is pretty much a waste of elbow grease and money. Sure you may get lucky and land a bass or two, but for the most part you will be wasting your time and patience.

For the beginner, you will get much more experience and develop keen skills by starting off with rubber worms. Rubber worms are arguably still the #1 bass catching bait of all time. New Jersey Pro Mike Iocanelli just won the 2003 Bassmaster Classic using rubber worms.