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Kyle Schoenherr says September crappie success starts with understanding the lake you’re fishing. Crappie Basics: September Fishing Tips From Kyle Schoenherr Kyle Schoenherr of Oakdale, Illinois is one of America’s top crappie anglers. With tournament partner Rodney Neuhaus, he’s won three National Crappie Championships. He’s also has had more than 25 “Top 3” finishes to […]

Northland Tackle Deep Vee Spin Jig Northland’s underspin jig, the Deep Vee Spin, is a catcher. Cast it or troll it and you’ll catch fish. This jig shines in crystal clear waters where its flashy willow blade makes all the difference in getting fish’s attention and getting bit. The jig has a keeled body shape [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Finding the Right Setup Story and photos by Madalyn Roberts One of my favorite aspects about kayak fishing is that it is for everyone of all skill levels. One can invest as little or as much money as budget allows to take part in the activity. Below is a photo of my [...]

Fishing remains one of America’s favorite outdoor pastimes, but a new report reveals some surprising trends that could shape the future of the sport.   Special Report Provides Fishing Insights Source: American Sportfishing Association/FTR Industry News   The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) recently announced the results of the 2026 Special Report on Fishing. In total, […]

Capt. Richard Simms and his grandson, Charlie, were both obviously pleased with this 2.5-pound crappie pulled from Chickamauga Lake on the Tennessee River last spring while long-line trolling. (Photo: Priscilla Simms-Roberson)   Destination: East Tennessee’s Hidden Treasures By Capt. Richard Simms   For generations, anglers have been drawn to the Tennessee River for its beauty, […]

Falling barometric pressure and cloudy skies ahead of a cold front often trigger aggressive feeding activity from crappie. Photo by Keith Sutton   Mastering Fall Fronts: Crappie Strategies When the Weather Swings By Keith Sutton Early fall is a season of transition on crappie waters. Summer’s heat begins loosening its grip, cool nights arrive more […]

Paddling With Madalyn: Life Beyond the Tug By Madalyn Roberts If you hang around crappie anglers long enough and pay attention, you’ll eventually hear folks say catching fish is just a bonus. Then you’ll hear someone say, “The tug is the drug.” For newcomers, that can be a little confusing, so let’s unpack it. The […]

A well-stocked crappie library is as valuable as a full tackle box—timeless lessons that still put fish in the boat.   Crappie Basics: Start a Crappie Library By Keith Sutton Spend enough time chasing crappie, and you’ll learn plenty on the water. But some of the best lessons don’t come from a rod and reel. […]

A careful release starts with keeping fish in the water as much as possible. During hot summer weather, minimizing air exposure can significantly improve a fish’s chances of survival. Photo by Keith Sutton 8 Tips for Warm-Season Fish Care Source: TheWaterWire.com Fishing during the heat of summer means going the extra mile to make sure […]

The exterior of Wonderbird Spirits welcomes visitors to one of America’s only grain-to-glass gin distilleries, where Mississippi Delta rice is transformed into award-winning handcrafted gin. photo by Kyleigh Touro One of a Kind: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Oxford, Mississippi By Kyleigh Touro When people think of Oxford, Mississippi, they often picture the historic Square, […]

Berkley Drip Swimmer Berkley has your trailer of choice with their Drip Swimmer. The 3-inch version is perfect for crappie anglers who go drop shotting, swim shotting, strolling, casting on jig heads or who use them as a trailer on other baits. Leave the minnows behind and grab these ultra-realistic plastic minnows in 14 fish-catching [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn—Step One: Kayak Launch Photos and Story By Madalyn Roberts Kayak launch and loading is an aspect of kayak fishing that doesn’t seem to get the attention it deserves. Advances in technology and equipment in recent years mean each angler’s rig is unique. The one commonality, however, is that most kayaks are made […]