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