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Ryan Brod

Ryan Brod

Recent Posts

Best Baits for Ice Fishing Pike

Ice Fishing

Best Baits for Ice Fishing Pike

It was early March when pike patrol the shallows in pre-spawn mode. I was guiding seven anglers, several of whom had never fished before. I chose a shallow, weedy bay and spread my tip-ups to cover prime territory. I tipped my 3/0 red octopus-style hooks with lively golden shiners, 4 to 6 inches...
Ryan Brod Mar 4, 2021
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Fish Hunting: How to Sight-Fish from Flats to Freshwater

Freshwater

Fish Hunting: How to Sight-Fish from Flats to Freshwater

From the poling platform I spotted the dark shapes—five or six of them—milling over light-colored bottom. “OK Dad,” I said, “I’ve got a group straight ahead, 90 feet.” I poled the skiff quietly, keeping my eyes on the black backs of the tarpon. They resembled suspended logs, except that every once...
Ryan Brod May 26, 2020
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Stay Sharp: Why and How to Properly Sharpen Fishing Hooks

Fishing Gear

Stay Sharp: Why and How to Properly Sharpen Fishing Hooks

The big muskie ate my fly a foot from the rod tip. But the fight didn’t last long. I set the hook, the muskie shook its enormous head, the hook flew out, and I cursed so loud my ears rang. I inspected my fly: 10 inches of black schlappen and gold flash. I knew that hard-mouthed species like muskie...
Ryan Brod May 4, 2020
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How to Crush Smallmouth Bass Right After Ice-Out

Freshwater

How to Crush Smallmouth Bass Right After Ice-Out

The ice is out and I’m itching to get on smallmouths. The fact that I’ve been quarantining in my apartment with two roommates who can’t even talk fishing with me isn’t helping. Problem is, water temperatures are barely nudging 40 degrees. This means that although I’ve been daydreaming about big...
Ryan Brod Apr 16, 2020
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