FORT SMITH, AR – Soft-plastic creature baits need to blend tremendous water disturbance for attraction, yet present the appearance of being an easy meal. The new YUMphibian by YUM Soft Plastics captures both of these traits. The supple body is soft enough to undulate and swim but durable enough to catch several fish without tearing, and the multiple appendages kick out more water displacement and disturbance than any other creature bait. With two small swimming arms at the top, a pair of longer curl tails at the end and two big “flappers” at the midpoint, this critter never stops moving…or catching fish.  Read Full Story

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD – Before the FLW Tour on the Potomac River presented by the National Guard began this week, National Guard pro Scott Martin of Clewiston, Fla., dedicated his efforts to his wife, who has been a vital part of his support over the course of his career. Martin, the reigning Forrest Wood Cup champion, led the first three days of the event and on Sunday he got to dedicate a victory to her, as well. At the end of the day, Martin’s five bass worth 13 pounds, 7 ounces gave him a total four-day weight of 66 pounds, 6 ounces – just 3 ounces heavier than second place – as well as a championship trophy and $126,000. The win boosted Martin’s career winnings past the $2 million mark.  Read Full Story

MINNETONKA, MN – It’s well known that BASS Elite Series professional angler and VMC and Rapala Pro Mike Iaconelli (aka: “Ike”) is neither petite in personality nor pocket-sized in confidence. He fills the atmosphere while clouting bass under the strain of competition, yet settles back to earth when chatting mano y mano with fans at the dock.   Read Full Story

MINNETONKA, MN – Bass can be choosy when it comes to blowing up on topwater baits. At any given moment, it might be one action or shape that triggers a strike, or instigates sudden disinterest. Sometimes it’s the spatter of a wide-bodied, water-pushing popper that’s preferred. Other times it’s the slender shape and whirling props that whip the surface, and bass, into a lather. In either case, the sound created by the lure should reverberate through lateral lines from afar, but without excessive splash and celebration. All the while, a lure must look realistic and run true. A lot to ask for, but doable. Because of the aforementioned truths, Rapala devised two new irresistible topwaters to roil the surface – the X-Rap Pop and the X-Rap Prop. Each bares a shape and action that bass can’t help but boil on.   Read Full Story

The latest creation by Great Lakes smallmouth guru Joe Balog may be his best yet. Balog, creator of the first-ever goby imitating lure, the original Drop Shot Goby, has created the most realistic goby bait ever, Joe Balog’s Goby Replica, and initial tests have proven incredible.  Read Full Story

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean it’s time to put your rods and reels into hibernation. In fact, if you employ the right strategies and techniques, it’s possible to put plenty of fish on the boat despite colder water temperatures. Boomerang Tool Company, the leader in innovative retractable fishing tools, offers the following wintertime bassin’ tips from Boomerang pro staffer and BASS Elite Series veteran, Russ Lane. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to get the bass to cooperate, regardless of the chilly conditions.   Read Full Story