Hiya folks,

Lighten up. That’s what I want to talk about today. And what I mean by “lighten up” is a lot of anglers think the heavier the line they use, the stronger the line and the better their chances are of landing fish. But you’ve got to hook it first, and the way to hook fish is to lighten up—go to the lightest line possible.

It’s especially true if you’re throwing finesse baits; maybe a wacky rig or a drop shot rig. In fact, here’s an experiment I want you to try this year: Go somewhere shallow—really, really shallow—and throw your bait in. Do it first using 12-, 15-, or even 17-pound test line and watch how your bait reacts. Then try the very same bait on maybe 6-pound or 8-pound test and you will see the difference. It’s like night and day.

The 6 and 8, the lighter lines, perform so much better! Remember, if the fishing’s tough—especially when it’s tough—it’s time to lighten up.

Happy Fish’n,Gord “The Doc” Pyzer