Potomac River 

April 10th, 2008

I have been on the river a lot in the past few days.  Water temps have been yo-yoing between the low 50's into the low 60's.  This is really changing the mood of the fish.  The most stable pattern has been to fish ditches and hard cover. The grass is coming in nicely, but has not developed a definitive edge. When the fish retreat, they move to deeper scattered grass and other cover, making them a bit more difficult to track down on the colder water temps.

Potomac River guide Capt. John Sisson reports the old bridge pilings above the Wilson Bridge still present a potential hazard!  BE CAREFUL!

Warmer water temps have allowed the fish to move up to the drop edges and stay on the flats. Fish are moving up to last year's grass on main river flats and creek mouth points.  This is an excellent time to get away from the crowds and find new fish.  These fish will stage in these areas for a few weeks, then move toward spawning flats as nighttime lows are not as low and the days are getting longer, keeping us warmer later.

For the cold snap, I have relied on several soft plastics presentations. I either cast to ditches, pitch to wood and skip under docks!! Mann's Stingray 3” avocado grub is my favorite, then Mizmo tubes, then drop shots. The best way to fish a Mizmo tube with an insert tube head. I have been using the Gerkin head for 6 years!  Made with a Mustad Ultra Point hook...it has a wire weed guard and an elongated lead head…this makes the bait glide.  The Gerkin tube head, now owned by R&R Custom Baits can be found at Dance's Sporting Goods in Colonial Heights, VA or by calling…804-541-4162. Also, hair jigs like the Punisher work too. The key this time of the year with all baits is to slow down. Stop when you can. For extended periods!  This is where fish attractants come in handy. I like Jack's Juice because it really soaks into the plastics or into the hair on a Punisher jig!

The two best hard baits are the suspending jerkbait and the lipless crank. I prefer the Lucky Craft here!  The Pointer 78 and the 100 are fantastic.  I use 10-12 pound test…MONO!!! I don't like fluorocarbon. The line sinks…that's OK, but it sinks the entire length of the line.  This makes it harder to set the hook, and to keep the fish from feeling all of the line in the water…. just my preference. Note that outgoing tides generally bring warmer water, especially as you get closer to DC. When that happens, you can be a bit more aggressive. Also take note of water clarity to determine speed and colors.  Around Blue Plains and other warmer (55+) shallow…up to 6 feet…areas with clear water, I use suspending jerkbaits. The Lucky Craft Pointer is the best around!  I like the 78, but will use the 100 in water that isn't as clear or a bit deeper. Keeping the bait in one spot for a long time is best!  10-pound test!!!! This allows the bait to run deeper and to stay in one spot for a while. When I get low water near drops and clear water after the water arms a few degrees in the mid day, I like to toss the Lucky Craft Pointer and let it sit as long as 20 seconds!  Tough to do, but worth the wait. If it's windy, use the spinning rod!!!!

The Lucky Craft LVR D-7 is a heavier lipless bait with a thinner profile. It puts out a lot of vibration at a very slow speed. I drag it on the bottom.  If there is grass, I rip it free with a short snap and the bait is balanced to fall straight down without flipping over.  REDS!!!! And craw patterns are best!

Also try cranking, or spinnerbaits. You need to keep your bait in close contact with the bottom.  Slow is the key!  I do better with cranks on clear water sunny days and the spinnerbait when the water is stained and skies are gray and chop on the water. Try slow rolling a Mann's 3/8 Classic Spinnerbait, Colorado/Willow blades along the bottom. This bait has gold blades, white skirt. I cast it, let it fall to the bottom, then reel as slowly as possible to just keep the bait moving as slowly as possible, in constant contact with the bottom.  Still using 17-pound test. All of the bites, including the cranks have been light. The fish really aren't even jumping when hooked. Been catching light colored bass with a bit of silt on their bellies. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.

Slowly crank tighter wiggle cranks:  reds, craws, and chartreuse with a brown back. After getting snagged and penetrating many fish, all hooks get dull!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. BTW! The BEST split ring pliers ever, from Texas Tackle!http://texastackle.com/pliers.htm none like it anywhere! For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike, perfect to feel cover and hookset!  It's not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

How many of you bought a baitcasting reel, tried it and gave up!  Apparently there are a lot of you out there!  Don't give up, learn how to use them!  Start with a decent reel, $120-140 on up.  Then practice…but what do you practice?  Check out my free videos (http://www.monkeysee.com/channel/show/89) and you'll learn how to cast…if you can cast, but with only one hand, you can learn how to use your other hand too!

Email me for REGISTRATION forms for the 12th annual St Jude Potomac Teams Tournament…JULY 11th…Friday…Leesylvania! 

Fish are moving shallow. I like the Mann's Baby 1-Minus!  This bait works year round and can be slowly cranked in shallow water.


For drop shots, Mann's Hardnose green pumpkin finesse worm is the best. The bait's tough head stays on the hook and the soft-bodied pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I also like this worm for the shakey head application. I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available from lurecraft.com. It's also a good choice for the split shot rig. For the drop shot and the split shot rigs, I am using a 2/0 Mustad Ultra Lite Mega Bite hook. I like to use an 8-inch leader on my drop shot. The Carolina rig is pretty good now too!  In Spoils and Smoots and in areas close to deep water! BTW I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler (Fishingbutler.com) secures drop shot weights to your rod when putting away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.

A “casting call” will take place at The Boathouse at Fletcher's Cove…www.fletcherscove.com, Sunday, April 27, 11:00am - 3:00p.  www.nationalcastingcall.com.  Industry experts will instruct parents and children alike, and give everyone a chance to fish and learn more about fishing and the environment.  Highlights include sturgeon petting, a Junior Ranger Badge program, fly tying instruction and hands-on exhibits from participating partners: The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA), in conjunction with The National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP) and Guest Services, Inc. present an engaging all ages event sponsored by The National Park Service, The American Sportfishing Association, Discovery Creek, Discover Fly Fishing, The Future Fisherman Foundation, Family Tyes, The Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin, Living Classrooms Foundation, L.L. Bean, Orvis, Patagonia, Trout Unlimited, and The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

There's confusion over what licenses are required to guide on the Tidal Potomac River. I worked very closely with the PRFC this summer to come up with a grid of requirements to comply with DC, MD, VA and the PRFC on the Tidal Potomac. If you would like a copy, let me know! I support Capt. Ken Penrod's efforts to see to it that these rules are enforced!


It's a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics with precise and easy to use molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies and plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on-line to find out more! (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They can even make a mold for your design!  Take a look at some of the baits I have made on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm)…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

I'm the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I answer fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/

I keep a few Frogg Toggs on board for sudden showers…whenever they come. The new Elite Series has become my year-round windbreaker and rain suit. These new Toggs are amazing and they are loaded with pockets and features…and come with a very reasonable price tag! Stop me and check it out!  Frogg Toggs (www.froggtoggs.com) are always on board.  They block the wind and are breathable!  I carry extras for my passengers!

My Sportsman's Magazine article will focus on bouncing back after injuries!  Three big name pros underwent off-season surgeries to make comebacks this season. Brauer, Hibdon and Wilks tell their stories. Look for my Tournament Talk column in Woods & Waters. This month I look at pros and seminars! It's not just or extra income either! Check www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com. A limited FREE supply at Belle Haven Marina and at Bowes and Arrows. 


Senior BASSMASTER writer, Robert Montgomery has taken decades of writing and fishing experience with the best in the fishing business and compiled it into one huge E-Book. Ratio's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS contains nearly 300 VERY specific tips from pros to help you catch more fish!  I found a TON of great tips to help me.  Get RONTICO's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS here: www.killer-bass-fishing-secrets.com. It's only $19.95…about a nickel a tip!  Well worth it! The site has some FREE tips!


I have also found a new product that is awesome! I interviewed the makers of Hawg Pockets after they won the ICAST new product showcase award.  I had the gadgets in my basement for a while.  I took a fishing trip to West Virginia. My wife started to freak out when I started to load my rods with crankbaits into her new Passport Nissan Murano.  She didn't want me to hook her leather interior.  I remembered the Hawg Pockets, read the instructions and snapped them into place.  They did their job.  I also found out they didn't tangle when I moved them and I could see my bait thru them!  Check out the website.  They keep my rods from tangling and I can see the baits on the rods. This is the best fishing lure guard I have ever seen!  Check them out! http://www.hawgpockets.com

MIZMO tubes, Punisher Jigs, and most of the Lucky Craft and Mann's baits are now in Bass Pro Shops latest catalog…look for them!

2008 Potomac Tides under “REPORTS AND TIDES”.  Print a copy.

New to the river? Get a pro-quality map for fishing the Potomac and for other Virginia waters map from GMCO: www.gmcomaps.com. They list popular locations and hidden dangers of navigating the Potomac.

Are your boat batteries sluggish? If you have questions about battery care, check out www.nationalbass.com, go to ARTICLES and then Boat Batteries.

Have fun! Questions, comments or booking a trip: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all the time; so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> >
 

March 18th, 2008

As more boaters get out on the Potomac and head to the Spoils, I am still warning about the area north of the Wilson Bridge on the Maryland side!!!! Danger!  The old Woodrow Wilson Bridge pilings, just north of the new bridge are no longer visible, but are a gnarled mess of rebar and irregular concrete chunks, just below the surface in many spots!  These are NOT marked in any way…except by the lower units recently lost in this area!  They should be marking this area soon!  And they will be removing the hazards as well!

Warmer water temps have allowed the fish to move up to the drop edges and stay on the flats. Fish are moving up to last year's grass on main river flats and creek mouth points.  This is an excellent time to get away from the crowds and find new fish.  These fish will stage in these areas for a few weeks, then move toward spawning flats as nighttime lows are not as low and the days are getting longer, keeping us warmer later.

The two best baits are the suspending jerkbait and the lipless crank. I prefer the Lucky Craft here!  The Pointer 78 and the 100 are fantastic.  I use 10-12 pound test…MONO!!! I don't like floury. The line sinks…that's OK, but it sinks the entire length of the line.  This makes it harder to set the hook, and to keep the fish from feeling all of the line in the water…. just my preference. Note that outgoing tides generally bring warmer water, especially as you get closer to DC. When that happens, you can be a bit more aggressive. Also take note of water clarity to determine speed and colors.  Around Blue Plains and other warmer (55+) shallow…up to 6 feet…areas with clear water, I use suspending jerkbaits. The Lucky Craft Pointer is the best around!  I like the 78, but will use the 100 in water that isn't as clear or a bit deeper. Keeping the bait in one spot for a long time is best!  10-pound test!!!! This allows the bait to run deeper and to stay in one spot for a while. When I get low water near drops and clear water after the water arms a few degrees in the mid day, I like to toss the Lucky Craft Pointer and let it sit as long as 20 seconds!  Tough to do, but worth the wait. If it's windy, use the spinning rod!!!!

The Lucky Craft LVR D-7 is a heavier bait with a thinner profile. It puts out a lot of vibration at a very slow speed. I drag it on the bottom.  If there is grass, I rip it free with a short snap and the bait is balanced to fall straight down without flipping over.  REDS!!!! And craw patterns are best!

My 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale! This is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranties transfer!  It is in great shape. ONLY 16 HOURS 1000-5000 RPM…ZERO over 5000!!!!. I am asking only $30,999!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

Also try cranking, or spinnerbaits. You need to keep your bait in close contact with the bottom.  Slow is the key!  I do better with cranks on clear water sunny days and the spinnerbait when the water is stained and skies are gray and chop on the water. Try slow rolling a Mann's 3/8 Classic Spinnerbait, Colorado/Willow blades along the bottom. This bait has gold blades, white skirt. I cast it, let it fall to the bottom, then reel as slowly as possible to just keep the bait moving as slowly as possible, in constant contact with the bottom.  Still using 17-pound test. All of the bites, including the cranks have been light. The fish really aren't even jumping when hooked. Been catching light colored bass with a bit of silt on their bellies. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.

Slowly crank tighter wiggle cranks:  reds, craws, and chartreuse with a brown back. After getting snagged and penetrating many fish, all hooks get dull!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. BTW! The BEST split ring pliers ever, from Texas Tackle!http://texastackle.com/pliers.htm none like it anywhere! For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike, perfect to feel cover and hookset!  It's not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

I like several soft plastics presentations. I either cast to flats, pitch to grass or wood and skip under docks!! Mann's Stingray 3” avocado grub is my favorite, then Mizmo tubes, then and drop shots. The best way to fish a Mizmo tube with an insert tube head. I have been using the Gerkin head for 6 years!  Made with a Mustad Ultra Point hook...it has a wire weed guard and an elongated lead head…this makes the bait glide.  The Gerkin tube head, now owned by R&R Custom Baits can be found at Dance's Sporting Goods in Colonial Heights, VA or by calling…804-541-4162.

How many of you bought a baitcasting reel, tried it and gave up!  Apparently there are a lot of you out there!  Don't give up, learn how to use them!  Start with a decent reel, $120-140 on up.  Then practice…but what do you practice?  Check out my free videos (http://www.monkeysee.com/channel/show/89) and you'll learn how to cast…if you can cast, but with only one hand, you can learn how to use your other hand too!

Email me for REGISTRATION forms for the 12th annual St Jude Potomac Teams Tournament…JULY 11th…Friday…Leesylvania! 

Spinning reels are good for all techniques and actually keep your hands warmer than palming a bait caster all day!  I really like Quantum Energy reels!  Great drags, magnetic bail “spring”, titanium bail wire and a unique system for the line to be trapped” in place to avoid tangling around the bail arm.  I've been demonstrating these at shows and everyone has been impressed!  For line, I downsize to 8-pound test!  Try new Berkley Trilene100% Fluorocarbon line.  You're fishing further away from the boat, the lower stretch better sensitivity and thinner diameter will help you feel bites, set the hook and keep the fish from feeling you!

Fish are moving shallow. I like the Mann's Baby 1-Minus!  This bait works year round and can be slowly cranked in shallow water. Also, hair jigs like the Punisher work in the shallows too. The key this time of the year with all baits is to slow down. Stop when you can. For extended periods!  This is where fish attractants come in handy. I like Jack's Juice because it really soaks into the plastics or into the hair on a Punisher jig!

For drop shots, Mann's Hardnose green pumpkin finesse worm is the best. The bait's tough head stays on the hook and the soft-bodied pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I also like this worm for the shakey head application. I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available from lurecraft.com. It's also a good choice for the split shot rig. For the drop shot and the split shot rigs, I am using a 2/0 Mustad Ultra Lite Mega Bite hook. I like to use an 8-inch leader on my drop shot. The Carolina rig is pretty good now too!  In Spoils and Smoots and in areas close to deep water! BTW I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler (Fishingbutler.com) secures drop shot weights to your rod when putting away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.

I detail features and benefits of specific products in my reports I have used extensively and have confidence. Mentioning product names is easier for you to match up with what I'm using.

Have fun! Questions, comments or booking a trip: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all the time; so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> >
 

January 2nd, 2008

What a great time to get out and fish!  Not many people on the water…except us fishermen!  Cold water fishing is a great way to learn how to slow down!  Really slow down!  Once you learn slow, truly learn slow, then every other speed is easy!  If you can catch fish now, you will never have any trouble getting fish in other seasons!  This time of the year will give you a great understanding of bass fishing. Water temps have fallen into the upper 40's.

That said, you can really get some big fish this time of the year as well!  Your spinning reel is your friend. I like the Quantum Energy reels!  Great drags, magnetic bail “spring”, titanium bail wire and a unique system for the line to be trapped” in place to avoid tangling around the bail arm.   For line, I downsize to 6-pound test!  Try the new Berkley 100% Fluorocarbon line.  You are fishing deeper and further away from the boat, the lower stretch better sensitivity and thinner diameter will help you feel the bite, set the hook and keep the fish from feeling you! 

There are many techniques I like this time of the year. I will be detailing all of them at the Nation's Outdoor Sportsman's Show at the Dulles Expo Center this weekend…January 4-6!  I will be conducting seminars every day and just hanging out with everyone!   In addition, two men I really respect, Ken Penrod and C. Boyd Pfieffer will be giving seminars as well!  Both of these guys were instrumental in me becoming a guide and outdoor writer.  Ken has been a mentor to me for decades and Boyd kindled my interest in fishing when I was a kid in the early 60's!  Both have appeared on my radio shows. In fact, in the early 90's, Ken appeared on my TV show!  I learned a lot from these guys. YOU WILL TOO! I will also have a lot of product samples to give away at each seminar. Jack's Juice, Seal Skinz socks and gloves, Mann's Hardnose soft plastics, Water Gremlin BULLSHOT weights, BoatUS hats lanyards and no-stink towels, Fishing Butler's, Hawg Pockets, Grabber McCoal handwarmers. New Jann's Netcraft catalogs, and REGISTRATION forms for the 12th annual St Jude Potomac Teams Tournament!  The schedule for me is:  Friday 4pm.  SAT 10am, 2:30 PM and 6:45PM. Sunday noon, 3:30PM.  Each of my seminars is open for questions. Topics include Seasonal Patterns: Springtime, Post spawn, Summer Fall, winter and rods, reel, line forum.

Back to fishing now!  Where to go?  Deep water out of the current is the best place to start. Next, look for the steepest drop you can find. These are areas where the fish don't have to travel very far to get to shallow water when they want. Fish are always shallow. Look there first, but you have to have some deep water nearby!  For the shallow fish, I like the Mann's Baby 1-Minus!  This bait works year round and can be slowly cranked I shallow water. Also, hair jigs like the Punisher work in the shallows too. The key this time of the year with all baits is to slow down. Stop when you can. For extended periods!  This is where fish attractants come in handy. I like jack's Juice because it really soaks into the plastics or into the hair on a Punisher jig!  Line diameter is also key!  It allows baits to get to the bottom fast and stay there in wind and current. It also allows easier hook sets when far from the boat. Thinner line offers less resistance!  The reduced resistance also comes in handy when fish pick up a bait. They won't feel the line either! 

Note that outgoing tides generally bring warmer water, especially as you get closer to DC. When that happens, you can be a bit more aggressive. Also take note of water clarity to determine speed and colors.

Another shallow technique is the suspending jerkbait. The Lucky Craft Pointer is the best around!  I like the 78, but will use the 100 in water that isn't as clear or a bit deeper. Keeping the bait in one spot for a long time is best!  10-pound test!!!! This allows the bait to run deeper and to stay in one spot for a while. When I get low water near drops and clear water after the water arms a few degrees in the mid day, I like to toss the Lucky Craft Pointer and let it sit as long as 20 seconds!  Tough to do, but worth the wait.

My 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale! If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranties transfer!  It is in great shape. About 50 hours. I am asking only $33,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

For hard cover areas, you need to keep your bait in close contact with the bottom.  Cranking, or spinnerbaits. Slow is the key!  I do better with cranks on clear water sunny days and the spinnerbait when the water is stained and skies are gray and chop on the water. Try slow rolling a Mann's 3/8 Classic Spinnerbait, Colorado/Willow blades along the bottom. This bait has gold blades, white skirt. I cast it, let it fall to the bottom, then reel as slowly as possible to just keep the bait moving as slowly as possible, in constant contact with the bottom.  Still using 17-pound test. All of the bites, including the cranks have been light. The fish really aren't even jumping when hooked. Starting to find light colored bass with a bit of silt on their bellies. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.  I have been trying the new “made in the USA” ARDENT casting reel….so far…AWESOME!  Picked one up on one of my trips!  Spooled with 17 and casting spinnerbaits…putting a lot of miles on it. Stop me to check this machine out!  Light and tough!  Casts spinnerbaits well even into the wind.

For the cranks, look for tighter wiggle cranks:  reds, craws, and chartreuse with a brown back. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  After getting snagged and penetrating many fish, all hooks get dull…especially around hard cover!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. BTW!!!! The BEST split ring pliers ever!!!!!from Texas Tackle!!! http://texastackle.com/pliers.htm….none like it anywhere! For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike, perfect to feel the cover and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

For soft plastics, I like several presentations. The Mann's Stingray grub 3 inch in avocado is my favorite, followed by the Mizmo tube and then the drop shot. For the drop shot, the Mann's Hardnose green pumpkin finesse worm is the best. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I also like this worm for the shakey head application. I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com. It is also a good choice for the split shot rig. For the drop shot and the split shot rigs, I am using a 2/0 Mustad Ultra Lite Mega Bite hook. I like to use an 8inch leader on my drop shot. In either case, I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler will secure your drop shot weight to your rod when you want to put it away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.  Fishingbutler.com Smoots and Spoils are great for this. The Carolina rig is pretty good now too!  In Spoils and Smoots and in areas close to deep water!

It's also time to get the blade baits out…no more Silver Buddys to be found!  Too BAD!  But, I have found one that works very well!  It is made by Poor Boys Baits...www.poorboysbaits.com. Check them out!

My new FREE instructional videos are out!  If you are learning to cast, or trying to teach a friend to cast, check them out!  Most of us learn how to cast through a method of “trial and error…and error, and error, etc!”  I have been able to break casting down into small digestible steps!  If you can only cast a bait caster with your dominant hand, then you need to check out these FREE videos too! http://www.monkeysee.com/channel/show/89
By the way, there seems to be a lot of confusion over what licenses are required to guide on the Tidal Potomac River. I worked very closely with the PRFC this summer to come up with a grid of requirements to comply with DC, MD, VA and the PRFC on the Tidal Potomac. If you would like a copy, let me know! 

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

I use specific products and mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

For 2008 Tides information for the Potomac look under “REPORTS AND TIDES”.  Print a copy for your use.

New to the river? Get a pro-quality map for fishing the Potomac and for other Virginia waters map from GMCO: www.gmcomaps.com. They list popular locations and hidden dangers of navigating the Potomac.

Check out the biggest bass ever caught on the Potomac. (www.nationalbass.com, then REPORTS, then BIG FISH) Gary Kincheloe's record is likely to stand longer that the previous record of nearly 30 years.

Have fun, and I would enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or would like to book a trip, e-mail: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all of the time, so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
 

Dec 6th, 2007

This is an awesome time to get out and fish!  Big bass are being caught just about anywhere that is close to deep water. Deeper water might be a creek channel, ditch drop off, and channel bend or deeper grass edge.   Hard cover or grass, take your pick. Also note that outgoing tides generally bring warmer water, especially as you get closer to DC. When that happens, you can be a bit more aggressive. Also take note of water clarity to determine speed and colors.

My 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale! If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranties transfer!  It will be less than a year old and in great shape. About 50 hours. I am asking only $33,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

Starting with grass. Over the top, I am using a Lucky Craft LVR D-7 on 17-pound test and a 2iG Ultra Strike medium action rod…crawling the bait over the tops of the grass…as slowly as possible!  I am casting parallel to the grass too, looking for isolated clumps.  You can do the same thing with a Mann's Baby 4-Minus when the water is a bit more stained…and for the least visibility, overcast or choppy water, try slow rolling a Mann's 3/8 Classic Spinnerbait, Colorado/Indiana blades over the tops of the remaining grass. This bait has gold blades, white skirt. For the hard cover, try the willow/Colorado blades. I cast it, let it fall to the bottom, then reel as slowly as possible to just keep the bait moving as slowly as possible, in constant contact with the bottom.  Still using 17-pound test. All of the bites, including the cranks have been light. The fish really aren't even jumping much when hooked. Starting to find light colored bass with a bit of silt on their bellies. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.  I have been trying the new “made in the USA” ARDENT casting reel….so far…AWESOME!  Picked one up on one of my trips!  Spooled with 17 and casting spinnerbaits…putting a lot of miles on it. Stop me to check this machine out!  Light and tough!  Casts spinnerbaits well even into the wind.

For the hard cover areas, you need to keep your bait in close contact with the bottom.  Cranking, or spinnerbaits. Slow is the key!  I do better with cranks on clear water sunny days and the spinnerbait when the water is stained and the skies are gray and chop on the water. For the spinnerbait, I cast and let it fall to the bottom. Look for the tighter wiggle cranks. Crankbait colors:  reds, craws, chartreuse with a brown back are the only ones I have used…they work…but try your favorite colors first. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  After getting snagged and penetrating many fish, all hooks get dull…especially around hard cover!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. BTW!!!! The BEST split ring pliers ever!!!!!from Texas Tackle!!! http://texastackle.com/pliers.htm….none like it anywhere! For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike, perfect to snap from grass and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

For soft plastics, I like several presentations. The Mann's Stingray grub 3 inch in avocado is my favorite, followed by the Mizmo tube and then the drop shot. For the drop shot, the Mann's Hardnose green pumpkin finesse worm is the best. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I also like this worm for the shakey head application. I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com. It is also a good choice for the split shot rig. For the drop shot and the split shot rigs, I am using a 2/0 Mustad Ultra Lite Mega Bite hook. I am downsizing my line as the water temps fall to about 6 pound test very soon! I like to use an 8inch leader on my drop shot. In either case, I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler will secure your drop shot weight to your rod when you want to put it away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.  Fishingbutler.com  Smoots and Spoils are great for this. The Carolina rig is pretty good now too!  In Spoils and Smoots and in areas close to deep grass!

When I get low water near drops and clear water after the water arms a few degrees in the mid day, I like to toss the Lucky Craft Pointer 78 or 100. I let it sit as long as 20 seconds!  Tough to do, but worth the wait.

In January, I will be giving seminars throughout the month the first one is Jan 4,5 and 6 at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly.  I'll be handing out all day…but giving scheduled seminars.  For times, check www.nationsoutdoorshow.com…also look for two of my favorite speakers! Legendary Guide Ken Penrod and C. Boyd Pfieffer.
Friday 3:00PM - 8:00PM, Saturday 9:00AM - 8:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM - 5:00PM

It's also time to get the blade baits out…no more Silver Buddys to be found!  Too BAD!  But, I have found one that works very well!  It is made by Poor boys baits...www.poorboysbaits.com. Check them out!

My new FREE instructional videos are out!  If you are learning to cast, or trying to teach a friend to cast, check them out!  Most of us learn how to cast through a method of “trial and error…and error, and error, etc!”  I have been able to break casting down into small digestible steps!  If you can only cast a bait caster with your dominant hand, then you need to check out these FREE videos too! http://www.monkeysee.com/channel/show/89

Ths is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more!  Lure Craft molds are precise and easy to use. (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They have a mold for anything and all of the supplies to pour your own custom poured baits…they can even make a mold for your design!  Ask me to take a look at some of the baits I have made or check them out on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm) check out the NEW Lure Craft website…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

I kep a few Frogg Toggs on board for sudden showers…whenever they come. The new Elite Series has become my year-round windbreaker and rain suit. These new Toggs are amazing and they are loaded with pockets and features…and come with a very reasonable price tag! Stop me and check it out!  Frogg Toggs (www.froggtoggs.com) are always on board.  They block the wind and are breathable!  I carry extras for my passengers!

I use specific products and mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

There is a new style TEVA I just LOVE!  Karnali Wraptor (http://teva.com/ProductDetails.aspx?g=m&productID=6960&model=Karnali+Wraptor) have a toe guard!  They are perfect for water sports…. they have drains and are great for standing all day!  Check out the new TEVA sandals. They are sport shoes…especially water sports like bass fishing!   If you do not wear the sport sandals from TEVA, you should!  Just cover your feet with sunscreen and you'll feel better! I have tried other footwear, including expensive basketball shoes. TEVA's are very comfortable and have boat safe surfaces along with anti-microbial protection. These sandals are comfortable and keep me on my feet...no butt seat either!  Check out www.teva.com. 

There are some great tackle specials this month at Jann's Netcraft!  If you want to be on the email list for these specials, contact me and I'll take care of it for you!  Contact Jann's Netcraft for your free catalog!  They have a great assortment of do-it-yourself supplies, and they have a great line of soft plastics too!  By this time of the year, my rod tips are just about worn out on my cranking rods. Sometimes the guides take a constant beating too! What do you do? Toss out the rod that is really still in great shape? No way!  I have learned how to replace guides on some of my favorite rods and they are ready to go!  Check out their rod building and repair supplies.  Get a tip kit, with many sizes for a variety of rods.  If you want to learn how to make repairs or even build your own custom rods, they have a great rod-building instructional book and all of the tools and parts! I also noticed they have everything you need to make crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and buzzbaits.  You can start from scratch or assemble the parts to build the baits you like to your exact specs…and save money too! Jann's Netcraft luremaking, flytying, rod building, and soft baits! They've been around for a long time and have a great selection of lure making materials too! Check them out at www.jannsnetcraft.com or call 1-800-NETCRAFT!

I have also found a new product that is awesome!  Actually, I interviewed the makers of Hawg Pockets after they won the ICAST award for the new product showcase.  I had the gadgets in my basement for a while.  I took a fishing trip to West Virginia. My wife started to freak out when I started to load my rods with crankbaits into her new Passport Nissan Murano.  She didn't want me to hook her leather interior.  I remembered the Hawg Pockets and read the instructions and snapped them into place.  They did their job.  I also found out they didn't tangle when I moved them and I could see my bait thru them!  Check out the website.  I am using them on my boat now and it keeps my rods from tangling and I can see the baits on the rods. This is the best fishing lure guard I have ever seen!  Check them out! www.hawgpockets.com

MIZMO tubes, Punisher Jigs, and most of the Lucky Craft and Mann's baits are now in Bass Pro Shops latest catalog….look for them!

If you want the best polarized sunglasses for fishing, I suggest Maui Jim HCL (high contrast lens) polarized sunglasses.  These are the best for picking up cover in the water and seeing the fish.  Check around, most of the serious anglers on the Potomac are wearing them.  Eye protection is important!!!  Get a quality pair of polarized sunglasses.  I recommend the Maui Jims (www.mauijim.com). Sunglass Huts carry these.  If you see me on the water, I will let you check mine out.  I am also trying the polycarbonate lens Maui Sports…. they are light as a feather and the optics are great. Now for the over 50 crowd….Maui READERS!

For 2007 Tides information for the Potomac look under “REPORTS AND TIDES”.  Print a copy for your use.

If you are new to the river, get a map from GMCO. It is a pro-quality map for fishing the Potomac and for other Virginia waters. Check out their site: www.gmcomaps.com. They list some of the popular locations and some of the hidden dangers of navigating the Potomac.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"


Steve Chaconas guides on the Potomac River with experience on the river dating back over 40 years, and has been professionally guiding over 15 years.  Contact him for a rewarding trip on the Potomac River.  Catch huge largemouth bass in sight of the splendor of the nation's capital.

November 9th, 2007

What a difference a few days make!  Wonderful fishing this time of the year…nice to wear some of the great cool weather clothes!  Still in the TEVA's!  The Seal Skinz Chillblockers make that possible!  Fishing has been great, as water temps have fallen into the low to mid 50's.
The water has cleared up again, making the jerkbait and crankbait bites awesome!  Some very nice fish as well!  When the water gets a bit stained, slow rolling the spinnerbait is great. You can use plastics, jigs, etc….but why?  Too much fun to get them on moving baits. 

All new instructional videos are out!  If you are learning to cast, or trying to teach a friend to cast, check them out!  Most of us learn how to cast through a method of “trial and error…and error, and error, etc!”  I have been able to break casting down into small digestible steps!  If you can only cast a bait caster with your dominant hand, then you need to check out these FREE videos too!  How to Fish VIDEO

In the lowest tide, close to cover, the Mann's Baby 1-Minus, and Mann's Elite C-4 are great. I still like to toss in the Lucky Craft LVR D-7 once in a while to really cover water over grass.  A slow crank is fine. I am still finding that the wide wobble cranks are working better.  Colors…reds, craws, chartreuse with a brown back are the only ones I have used…they work…but try your favorite colors first. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  After getting snagged and penetrating many fish, all hooks get dull…especially around hard cover!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. Try adding a feather Mustad treble to the tail of a Baby 1-Minus. BTW!!!! The BEST split ring pliers ever!!!!!from Texas Tackle!!! http://texastackle.com/pliers.htm….none like it anywhere! For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike, perfect to snap from grass and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

By the way, there seems to be a lot of confusion over what licenses are required to guide on the Tidal Potomac River. I worked very closely with the PRFC this summer to come up with a grid of requirements to comply with DC, MD, VA and the PRFC on the Tidal Potomac. If you would like a copy, let me know!

For the spinnerbait, there is only one…Mann's 3/8-ounce Classic. This bait has gold blades, white skirt, and willow/Colorado blades. I cast it, let it fall to the bottom, then reel as slowly as possible to just keep the bait moving as slowly as possible, in constant contact with the bottom.  Still using 17-pound test. All of the bites, including the cranks have been light. The fish really aren't even jumping much when hooked. Starting to find light colored bass with a bit of silt on their bellies.  For grass the _ ounce spinnerbait with Colorado Indiana gold blades and a white skirt at low tides and a 3/8-ounce double when the tide is higher. Try a firetiger skirt in clear water with the willow blades. This doesn't work as well at high tide when the water is stained. You need to switch to the Classic Indiana/Colorado with a white skirt. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.  I have been trying the new “made in the USA” ARDENT casting reel….so far…AWESOME!  Picked one up on one of my trips!  Spooled with 17 and casting spinnerbaits…putting a lot of miles on it. Stop me to check this machine out!  Light and tough!  Casts spinnerbaits well even into the wind.

By the way, my 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale! If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranties transfer!  It will be less than a year old and in great shape. About 50 hours. I am asking only $33,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

If you really want to toss bottom baits, try Texas rig big plastics and big Stone jigs with Hardnose craw trailers …pitch to hard cover!  If very sunny and you can find isolated clumps of grass…go for it!  Play with any plastic rig…drop shot, shakey head or split shot….just keep it slow! Find cuts in pads or drains when the tide is falling. Tubes are great ways to fish docks where there is no grass around and bridge pilings. For drop shotting and shaky head fishing I like the green pumpkin Mann's HardNose Finesse worm. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com. Smoots and Spoils are great for this. For grassy areas, I like to use an 18inch leader on my drop shot. For wood I keep it around 8 inches. In either case, I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler will secure your drop shot weight to your rod when you want to put it away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.  Fishingbutler.com The Carolina rig is pretty good now too!  In Spoils and Smoots and in areas close to deep grass!

This is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more!  Lure Craft molds are precise and easy to use. (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They have a mold for anything and all of the supplies to pour your own custom poured baits…they can even make a mold for your design!  Ask me to take a look at some of the baits I have made or check them out on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm) check out the NEW Lure Craft website…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

I use specific products nd mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

Have fun, and I would enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or would like to book a trip, e-mail: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all of the time, so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> >


Captain Steve Chaconas/SEOPA 
National Bass Guide Service
Boat U.S. On-line Expert
How to Fish VIDEO
8619 Camden St.
Alexandria, VA 22308
www.nationalbass.com
Home Office:   703-360-3472
Cell:   703-380-7119
 

Sept11th, 2007

Still hearing a lot of tough stories on current fishing conditions. It is tough!  But, you can still catch them. One of my most reliable techniques for numbers of fish is to lighten up!  I use the same tactics I use during the coldest winter months!  Finesse fishing is custom made for this time of the year. I will be giving a detailed seminar ONE DAY ONLY September 22, 2007 - for the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World-Baltimore Fall Fishing Weekend. In addition, there will be Casting Kids Qualifier and State Championships. And that's not all!  Join both freshwater and saltwater experts at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World-Baltimore for Fall Fishing Days, Saturday and Sunday, September 22 and 23.  Also, Lake Anna guide Glenn Briggs, Bass Pro Shops and Nitro Field Staff Pro will demonstrate how to catch more and bigger bass using Bass Pro Shops tackle and XPS lures.

So, that brings us back to how and where to fish. Fishing the finesse light line techniques can be done anywhere, but your chances of landing a decent bass in the thick grass is tough!  But, still doable!  Stick with the deeper outside edges and you'll be fine.  Or you can go to hard cover without any grass nearby. Play with any plastic rig…drop shot, shakey head or split shot….just keep it slow! Find cuts in pads or drains when the tide is falling. Tubes are great ways to fish docks where there is no grass underneath and bridge pilings. For drop shotting and shaky head fishing I like the green pumpkin Mann's HardNose finesse worm. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com. Smoots and Spoils are great for this. For grassy areas, I like to use an 18inch leader on my drop shot. For wood I keep it around 8 inches. In either case, I have found the PERFECT drop shot tool!  The FISHING Butler will secure your drop shot weight to your rod when you want to put it away!  No VELCRO or rubber bands!  This device is adjustable and can also be used to secure rods to each other.  Fishingbutler.com

This is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more!  Lure Craft molds are precise and easy to use. (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They have a mold for anything and all of the supplies to pour your own custom poured baits…they can even make a mold for your design!  Ask me to take a look at some of the baits I have made or check them out on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm) check out the NEW Lure Craft website…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

Before I give up on other techniques, I try spinnerbaits and Baby 1-Minus baits. Especially when there is cloud cover or chop on the water.
Go with the NEW C-4 Elite Series wide body bait. This bigger bait can be crawled through the pads. Pitch in as far as you can….at the highest tides. In the creeks, I like Mann's NEW C-4 ELITE SERIES crankbait in chartreuse shad on 20-pound test. Crank through the pads when pitching about 15 feet….walk through and hold on!  This is a great higher tide strategy for pads in creeks! I use 20-pound test and a 6'6” medium heavy 2iG Ultra Strike rod.  I pitch most of the time to be a bit more accurate. At higher tides in grass, I have been having a lot of success with the Mann's Baby 1-Minus and the new Elite C-4. My 'new' Baby 1-Minus favorite is the new Elite Series. I like the baby bass color now.  Old standbys, fire tiger, splatterback and desert sunset are also working. Vary your retrieves. I have caught some burning the bait, crawling it and long pauses. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. Try adding a feather Mustad treble to the tail of a Baby 1-Minus. For my line, I am using 20-pound test Berkley XT. For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod. A medium heavy 7-foot graphite rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike is perfect to snap from grass and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

For spinnerbaits, I like the _ ounce spinnerbait with Colorado Indiana gold blades and a white skirt at low tides and a 3/8-ounce double when the tide is higher.  Try a firetiger skirt in clear water with the willow blades. This doesn't work as well at high tide when the water is stained. You need to switch to the Classic Indiana/Colorado with a white skirt. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.

Topwater hasn't been that good for me!  I still try it if I like the conditions!  Lower water and low light!  I like slowing down with a slow buzzbait with a clacker or a walking bait like the GUNFISH from Lucky Craft!  This bait disturbs the water and has a loud rattle!!  I can walk this bait very slowly, and the rattles call them up!  The key has been to keep it moving once you get a strike!  If you stop it, they don't seem to come back!  Add a tail feather like the Mustad hand tied Ultra Point trebles in RED!  Sometimes a twitch will get the feathers moving and the fish to return after a hit and miss!  Small 1/8-ounce BLACK buzzbaits have also been working at lower tides over grass around docks and over wood! When the tide is low, try frogs like the Mann's Super Frog!

If the fish are a bit more active, go to a buzzfrog!  If you've never seen the Mann's HARDNOSE Swim Toad, GET SOME!  These are perfect over grass!  The hard nose keeps the hook in place better than ANY OTHER on the market!  I like white and green pumpkin!  If you see me on the water, ask me for a free sample!  Rig this on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook with BRAID!  I am trying a bunch of braids…so far; STREN Super Braid and Spiderwire are the best. On casting gear, I like to spool 65 on spinning gear, I like 25. The no stretch is great for getting the fish out of grass and for setting the hook. I like the heavier line on casting gear…easier to cast! TOPWATER KEYS:  Use poppers at lower tides…ANYTIME OF THE DAY! 

By the way, my 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale!  I pre-sell these boats for December 1 delivery, 2007!  If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranty transfers!  It will be less than a year old and in great shape. About 50 hours. This is the time to reserve this boat. I am asking only $33,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

For mat fishing, the bright sun and hot hazy days, give you a good shot!  Punch through and you'll have a great time! Look for the nastiest mats you can find. Casting GEAR!!!! The ONE-PIECE 2iG Ultra Strike Flippin' Stick is perfect!  Spool with 65 pound braid, a 1-ounce Tru-Tungsten weight with a Mann's HardNose Flippin' Craw…black blue, green pumpkin on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook!  Pitch to a mat, shake until it drops through and wait until the fish swims off with it. Shake a bit, pull up to the underside of the mat…shake, and then drop again before removing to make another cast. REMEMBER; allow the fish to PULL before you set the hook!  A spray of Jack's Juice Garlic adds flavor and allows the bait to slide through the grass better. Also, I peg my weight or use Pro's Soft Bait Glue to glue to the head of the bait.

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

I use specific products and mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

Have fun, and I would enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or would like to book a trip, e-mail: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all of the time, so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> >



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See what's new at http://www.aol.com

August 28tth, 2007

FISHING REPORT
I am hearing complaints from guys having trouble catching bass this time of the year. They ask, “Where are the bass?'  “In the grass” my response. And there is so much of it!  The bass are very comfy under the maze of mats stretching from DC to Nanjemoy!  How do you get them…first of all a reminder. The PROS were here recently and a lot of them had trouble getting five fish a day!  It was a very tedious methodical punching of mats that did the trick for most of them. Skeet was fishing hard cover.  So there.  You have two choices…mats or hard cover.  Sounds simple!  NOT!

By the way, my 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale!  I pre-sell these boats for December 1 delivery, 2007!  If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranty transfers!  It will be less than a year old and in great shape. About 50 hours. This is the time to reserve this boat. I am asking only $32,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

Last week I had a day where we did well with spinnerbaits…the tide slowed and DONE!  Next day not a bite on a spinnerbait!  The fish were still there, in the grass, but didn't want to come out to play. Punching mats was the only option….not for everyone!

If you don't want to mess with the grass, you can do a few things.  Go to the edges of mats where there is deeper water!  Play with any plastic rig…drop shot, jig or whatever….just keep it slow!  You can also try rats over the grass….again, slow…I like the Furbit popper….pop and let the rabbit fur tail do the rest.  After that, go where there is NO grass or just pads and wood. Here, I like big stuff!  Jig and Hardnose 6” worm and Mann's NEW Hardnose 9-inch worm! Rig this on a 3/0 Mustad Ultra Point Hook with a 3/16 ounce Water Gremlin BULLSHOT! Work it slow!  Find cuts in pads or drains when the tide is falling. On rising tides, I still like the crankbait in the pads. Drop shot, shaky head, and tubes are great ways to fish docks where there is no grass underneath and bridge pilings. For drop shotting and shaky head fishing I like the green pumpkin Mann's HardNose finesse worm. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com. Smoots and Spoils are great for this.  The C-Rig in there areas is also producing. You can even try deeper diving cranks like the Mann's 15+!

Go with the Mann's Baby 1-Minus or the NEW C-4 Elite Series wide body bait. This bigger bait can be crawled through the pads. Pitch in as far as you can….at the highest tides. In the creeks, I like Mann's NEW C-4 ELITE SERIES crankbait in chartreuse shad on 20-pound test. Crank through the pads when pitching about 15 feet….walk through and hold on!  This is a great higher tide strategy for pads in creeks! I use 20-pound test and a 6'6” medium heavy 2iG Ultra Strike rod.  I pitch most of the time to be a bit more accurate. At higher tides in grass, I have been having a lot of success with the Mann's Baby 1-Minus and the new Elite C-4. My 'new' Baby 1-Minus favorite is the new Elite Series. I like the baby bass color now.  Old standbys, fire tiger, splatterback and desert sunset are also working. Vary your retrieves. I have caught some burning the bait, crawling it and long pauses. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. Try adding a feather Mustad treble to the tail of a Baby 1-Minus. For my line, I am using 20-pound test Berkley XT. For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod. A medium heavy 7-foot graphite rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike is perfect to snap from grass and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

If you get low light conditions, try your moving baits. I like the _ ounce spinnerbait with Colorado Indiana gold blades and a white skirt at low tides and a 3/8-ounce double willow with firetiger skirt when the tide is higher. If I have a high tide under cloudy skies in the grass, I have been tossing the 3/8-willow tandem with a firetiger skirt. Chop on the water is better. This doesn't work as well at high tide when the water is stained. You need to switch to the Classic Indian/Colorado with a white skirt. For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod.

For topwater, I like slowing down with a slow buzzbait with a clacker or a walking bait like the GUNFISH from Lucky Craft!  This bait disturbs the water and has a loud rattle!!  I can walk this bait very slowly, and the rattles call them up!  The key has been to keep it moving once you get a strike!  If you stop it, they don't seem to come back!  Add a tail feather like the Mustad hand tied Ultra Point trebles in RED!  Sometimes a twitch will get the feathers moving and the fish to return after a hit and miss!  Small 1/8-ounce BLACK buzzbaits have also been working at lower tides over grass around docks and over wood! When the tide is low, try frogs like the Mann's Super Frog!

If the fish are a bit more active, go to a buzzfrog!  If you've never seen the Mann's HARDNOSE Swim Toad, GET SOME!  These are perfect over grass!  The hard nose keeps the hook in place better than ANY OTHER on the market!  I like white and green pumpkin!  If you see me on the water, ask me for a free sample!  Rig this on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook with BRAID!  I am trying a bunch of braids…so far; STREN Super Braid and Spiderwire are the best. On casting gear, I like to spool 65 on spinning gear, I like 25. The no stretch is great for getting the fish out of grass and for setting the hook. I like the heavier line on casting gear…easier to cast! TOPWATER KEYS:  Use poppers at lower tides…ANYTIME OF THE DAY!  Use SLOW buzzbaits and walkers in clear calm water…. higher tides under cloudy skies. Buzzbaits with clackers at higher tides and choppy water.

For mat fishing, the bright sun and hot hazy days, give you a good shot!  Punch through and you'll have a great time! Look for the nastiest mats you can find. Casting GEAR!!!! The ONE-PIECE 2iG Ultra Strike Flippin' Stick is perfect!  Spool with 65 pound braid, a 1-ounce Tru-Tungsten weight with a Mann's HardNose Flippin' Craw…black blue, green pumpkin on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook!  Pitch to a mat, shake until it drops through and wait until the fish swims off with it. Shake a bit, pull up to the underside of the mat…shake, and then drop again before removing to make another cast. REMEMBER; allow the fish to PULL before you set the hook!  A spray of Jack's Juice Garlic adds flavor and allows the bait to slide through the grass better. Also, I peg my weight or use Pro's Soft Bait Glue to glue to the head of the bait.

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

This is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more!  Lure Craft molds are precise and easy to use. (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They have a mold for anything and all of the supplies to pour your own custom poured baits…they can even make a mold for your design!  Ask me to take a look at some of the baits I have made or check them out on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm) check out the NEW Lure Craft website…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

I keep a few Frogg Toggs on board for sudden showers…whenever they come. The new Elite Series has become my year-round windbreaker and rain suit. These new Toggs are amazing and they are loaded with pockets and features…and come with a very reasonable price tag! Stop me and check it out!  Frogg Toggs (www.froggtoggs.com) are always on board.  They block the wind and are breathable!  I carry extras for my passengers!

Each time you search the internet, you can support FishAmerica's efforts to keep our fish and waters healthy.  Just visit www.goodsearch.com, enter FishAmerica as your charity of choice, and start searching!  Just 500 searches, four times a day will raise about $7,300 in a year without anyone spending a dime!  Download the GoodSearch toolbar to your web browser such as Internet Explorer.  Just visit http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/ and click Download Now!

My Sportsman's Magazine article will focus on PROP BAITS!  Hear what pros Joe Thomas and Frank Scalish say about how to fish these noisy baits.

I use specific products and mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

There is a new style TEVA I just LOVE!  Karnali Wraptor (http://teva.com/ProductDetails.aspx?g=m&productID=6960&model=Karnali+Wraptor) have a toe guard!  They are perfect for water sports…. they have drains and are great for standing all day!  Check out the new TEVA sandals. They are sport shoes…especially water sports like bass fishing!   If you do not wear the sport sandals from TEVA, you should!  Just cover your feet with sunscreen and you'll feel better! I have tried other footwear, including expensive basketball shoes. TEVA's are very comfortable and have boat safe surfaces along with anti-microbial protection. These sandals are comfortable and keep me on my feet...no butt seat either!  Check out www.teva.com. 

Senior BASSMASTER writer, Robert Montgomery has taken his decades of writing and fishing experience with the best in the fishing business and compiled it into one huge E-Book. Ratio's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS contains nearly 300 VERY specific tips from pros to help you catch more fish!  I found a TON of great tips to help me.  You can get your copy of RONTICO's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS here: www.killer-bass-fishing-secrets.com. It's only $19.95…that's about a nickel a tip!  Well worth it! The site has some FREE tips!

FYI!!! I receive press releases from many companies. Here's one I found interesting. I have friends who have damaged their skegs and either leave them damaged, affecting performance, or have an expensive lower unit replaced. The Blackfin™ Skeg is new product made of high impact composite and is easy-to-install, with no drilling or changes to your original boat or motor. In the event of an impact; the force is equally distributed in all directions and absorbed by the flexible nature of the Blackfin™ Skeg. In the event of damage to your original stock skeg the Blackfin™ Skeg can be used to easily and inexpensively repair the damage as long as one third or more of the original skeg is still intact.  The added protection and enhanced performance of the Blackfin™Skeg make this new product a must have for any boating enthusiast.  They are available at Cabela's, and larger marine stores or conveniently online at www.blackfinskeg.com.  The suggested retail price is $69.95. For additional information on Blackfin™ Skeg contact Re: The Outdoors at 334-612-0859.

There are some great tackle specials this month at Jann's Netcraft!  If you want to be on the email list for these specials, contact me and I'll take care of it for you!  Contact Jann's Netcraft for your free catalog!  They have a great assortment of do-it-yourself supplies, and they have a great line of soft plastics too!  By this time of the year, my rod tips are just about worn out on my cranking rods. Sometimes the guides take a constant beating too! What do you do? Toss out the rod that is really still in great shape? No way!  I have learned how to replace guides on some of my favorite rods and they are ready to go!  Check out their rod building and repair supplies.  Get a tip kit, with many sizes for a variety of rods.  If you want to learn how to make repairs or even build your own custom rods, they have a great rod-building instructional book and all of the tools and parts! I also noticed they have everything you need to make crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and buzzbaits.  You can start from scratch or assemble the parts to build the baits you like to your exact specs…and save money too! Jann's Netcraft luremaking, flytying, rod building, and soft baits! They've been around for a long time and have a great selection of lure making materials too! Check them out at www.jannsnetcraft.com or call 1-800-NETCRAFT!

A note on one of my tools.  I like to use PRO's Soft Bait Glue.  While a lot of anglers are really impressed by how much money they save gluing Senkos back together, I really like the time I save!   When I skip stickworms under docks, eventually, baits tear.  Rather than stopping and retying and re-rigging, I just put a drop of glue on the tear and away I go.  One bait will stay rigged nearly all day!  I also have started using with my shakey heads. While the Mann's Hardnose bait is the only bait on the market with a super hard nose to stay on the hook better, I still put a drop to keep it from going anywhere on the head!  

As most who see me at the ramp know, I drive a 1995 Nissan 4WD truck.  This old truck really tows my Skeeter with ease!  I bought this truck from PASSPORT Nissan and I have been buying my vehicles from the owner since 1978!  If you have any questions about the NISSAN trucks, please forward to me!  Right now is a great time to consider one, as Nissan is running low interest rates or cash back on Titan, Frontier and Xterra. Bob Gasbarri knows NISSANS and he knows trucks!  Give him a call at 703-461-5279 with any towing questions!  I will demo many of their trucks throughout the year.  Let me know if you would like to set up a test drive! IF YOU CONTACT ME, I WILL GET YOU A BELOW INVOICE NO HASTLE PRICE!

I have also found a new product that is awesome!  Actually, I interviewed the makers of Hawg Pockets after they won the ICAST award for the new product showcase.  I had the gadgets in my basement for a while.  I took a fishing trip to West Virginia. My wife started to freak out when I started to load my rods with crankbaits into her new Passport Nissan Murano. She didn't want me to hook her leather interior.  I remembered the Hawg Pockets and read the instructions and snapped them into place.  They did their job.  I also found out they didn't tangle when I moved them and I could see my bait thru them!  Check out the website.  I am using them on my boat now and it keeps my rods from tangling and I can see the baits on the rods. This is the best fishing lure guard I have ever seen!  Check them out! www.hawgpockets.com

Also look for my Tournament Talk column in Woods & Waters. This month the pros talk about attention to execution!  I cover B.A.S.S. and FLW tournament winners!  Also check out www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com. There is a limited supply of these FREE publications at Belle Haven Marina and at Bowes and Arrows. 

MIZMO tubes, Punisher Jigs, and most of the Lucky Craft and Mann's baits are now in Bass Pro Shops latest catalog….look for them!

If you want the best polarized sunglasses for fishing, I suggest Maui Jim HCL (high contrast lens) polarized sunglasses.  These are the best for picking up cover in the water and seeing the fish.  Check around, most of the serious anglers on the Potomac are wearing them.  Eye protection is important!!!  Get a quality pair of polarized sunglasses.  I recommend the Maui Jims (www.mauijim.com). Sunglass Huts carry these.  If you see me on the water, I will let you check mine out.  I am also trying the polycarbonate lens Maui Sports…. they are light as a feather and the optics are great.

For 2007 Tides information for the Potomac look under “REPORTS AND TIDES”.  Print a copy for your use.

If you are new to the river, get a map from GMCO. It is a pro-quality map for fishing the Potomac and for other Virginia waters. Check out their site: www.gmcomaps.com. They list some of the popular locations and some of the hidden dangers of navigating the Potomac.

Check out the biggest bass ever caught on the Potomac. (www.nationalbass.com, then REPORTS, then BIG FISH) Gary Kincheloe's record is likely to stand longer that the previous record of nearly 30 years.

Are your boat batteries sluggish? If you have questions about battery care, check out www.nationalbass.com, go to ARTICLES and then Boat Batteries.  There is also a discount offer on INTERSTATE Marine batteries.

Have fun, and I would enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or would like to book a trip, e-mail: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all of the time, so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> >




Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
Boat U.S. On-line Expert
"Take me fishing!" 
.·´¯`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> > 
National Bass Fishing Show
8619 Camden St.
Alexandria, VA 22308
home office:  703-360-3472
cell:  703-380-7119
info@nationalbass.com
Visit for updated reports www.nationalbass.com
 

August 13th, 2007

FISHING REPORT
Thanks to all of those who fished the 11th Annual Mid-Atlantic BASS Tournament to Benefit St. Jude Children's Hospital!  You raised nearly $5,000 for the KIDS!!!!! Go to my site for FINAL STANDINGS!

I just returned from the 50th Anniversary of ICAST in Vegas. What a show!  If you ever get the opportunity….go!  This year, lots of new lines from Berkley, including a new Stren braid.  Quantum released a lot of new and lighter high-end rods. They also introduced a very affordable line of catfish rigs. I saw a lot of hollowed body frogs at the show. This was a huge trend, along with big-bodied wake crankbaits, like Mann's new Waker Elite Series.  Mann's has a lot of new baits in the HardNose line, including a 10” Snake!  This bait creates a wake and brings in the big ones….perfect for Potomac bass over grass!!!

The Optimum Furbit frogs were still setting the pace along with several other offerings from Japan!  River2Sea has a soft body jitterbug….in fact the lip is also soft. The company claims this will not interfere with hooksets like the old metal lip AND, this bait is totally weedless!  The Step Wa also has rubber skirt legs.  Their frog, the Bully Wa has a keel and center ballast to allow it to walk! A new air escape system minimizes the amount of water taken in while allowing the bait to compress to give a large hook exposure.  I hope to try these soon!

Another Japanese company, JackAll, had all of their hardbaits on display!  What an interesting line of products. They put a lot of thought and technology into their baits. With CAD, their baits are tournament ready!  A wide array of jointed baits, crankbaits, lipless, minnow, props, and Hard SWIMBAITS.

If you like Chatterbaits, you'll love the new Rock”N Runner, an original Road Runner with the hard rocking action of a Chatterbait!  The willow beneath the bait is sure to be a hit with bass!

In addition to a new and improved Rejuvenade, the company has found a simple product to insure your fish make it to the weigh-in!  A vent for your livewell releases all of the trapped HEATED air!  So simple!  This product is very durable as well. I tried to break one! 

Want some technology with your jigs?  Try the new “E-Chip Flipping Jig that generates a small electric charge, claimed to be similar to that of an actual nervous system of live bait!  The company, Persuader, says its E-Chip will attach to any hook!

My friends at Mizmo have a huge new product line!  Many of their new baits feature a pocket to insert their THUNDER rattles!  OR scent!  The Swamp Monster creature bait has claws that flip and arms that thump!  MIZMO also has a new swimbait!  Check them out!

Even Tru-Tungsten is getting into the swimbait business!  A jointed hard swimbait looks REAL!!!

More coming in future articles….

I had a truly unique fishing experience last week. Two ladies from the WBT joined me on the Potomac!  We fished from 6am to 9pm!  We had a blast!  They made me remember how much fun fishing really can be! They have only been fishing for 2 years, but they were really on top of their game.  Thanks ladies!

The bite has been slow some days and awesome others….water temp around 80 and you are golden. Cloud cover and some ripple and you have a good chance to get them on moving baits…but when the dog days hit…85+ degree water, bright sun and hot hazy days, go to the mats!  Punch through and you'll have a great time! 

For topwaters Lucky Craft Gunfish!  I can walk this bait very slowly, and the rattles call them up!  The key has been to keep it moving once you get a strike!  If you stop it, they don't seem to come back! Add a tail feather like the Mustad hand tied Ultra Point trebles in RED!  Sometimes a twitch will get the feathers moving and the fish to return after a hit and miss!  Small 1/8-ounce BLACK buzzbaits have also been working at lower tides over grass around docks and over wood! When the tide is low, try frogs like the Mann's Super Frog!

The best all around topwater now is the buzzfrog!  If you have never seen the Mann's HARDNOSE Swim Toad, GET SOME!  These are perfect over grass!  The hard nose keeps the hook in place better than ANY OTHER on the market!  I like white and green pumpkin!  If you see me on the water, ask me for a free sample!  Rig this on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook with BRAID!  I am trying a bunch of braids…so far; STREN Super Braid and Spiderwire are the best. On casting gear, I like to spool 50 on spinning gear, I like 25. The no stretch is great for getting the fish out of grass and for setting the hook. I like the heavier line on casting gear…easier to cast! TOPWATER KEYS:  Use poppers at lower tides…ANYTIME OF THE DAY!  Use SLOW buzzbaits and walkers in clear calm water…. higher tides under cloudy skies. Buzzbaits with clackers at higher tides and choppy water.

Here are your fishing choices…..creeks and main river grass. In the creeks, fish pad edges.  At low tide, the edge of the pads are good…at higher tides, you need to pitch back into the pads. Jigs, craws and the new Mann's 9-INCH HardNose worm in black with red flake have been my best choices.

In the grass, you need to punch through. Look for the nastiest mats you can find on a hot calm very sunny day and you will be able to mat fish. Casting GEAR!!!! The ONE-PIECE 2iG Ultra Strike Flippin' Stick is perfect!  Spool with 65 pound braid, a 1-ounce Tru-Tungsten brown weight with a Mann's HardNose Flippin' Craw…black blue, green pumpkin on a 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point Tube hook!  Pitch to a mat, shake until it drops though and wait until the fish swims off with it. Shake a bit, pull up to the underside of the mat…shake, and then drop again before removing to make another cast. REMEMBER; allow the fish to PULL before you set the hook!  A spray of Jack's Juice Garlic adds flavor and allows the bait to slide through the grass better. Also, I peg my weight or use Pro's Soft Bait Glue to glue to the head of the bait.

If I have a high tide under cloudy skies in the grass, I have been tossing the 3/8-willow tandem with a firetiger skirt. Chop on the water is better. This doesn't work as well at high tide when the water is stained. You need to switch to the Classic Indian/Colorado with a white skirt. In the creeks, I like a white Mann's crankbait, THE NEW C-4 ELEITE SERIES in chartreuse shad on 20-pound test. Crank through the pads when pitching about 15 feet….walk through the pads and hold on!  This is a great higher tide strategy for the pads in creeks! This bait is also good on cloudy days in the grass at higher tides.

At higher tides, I have been having a lot of success with the Mann's Baby 1-Minus. My 'new' favorite is the new Elite Series. I like the baby bass color now.  Old standbys, fire tiger, splatterback and desert sunset are also working. Vary your retrieves. I have caught some burning the bait, crawling it and long pauses. Check your hooks on all cranks now!  I recommend replacing with Mustad Ultra Point trebles. Try adding a feather Mustad treble to the tail of a Baby 1-Minus. For my line, I am using 17-pound test Berkley XT.  For my rods, the Ultra Strike, 2iG rods are perfect. The med/hvy 6'6” rod is my spinnerbait rod. For cranks, I like the 7” medium action rod. A medium heavy 7-foot graphite rod like the 2iG Ultra Strike is perfect to snap from grass and to set the hook!  It is not too limber or too stiff to keep you from landing fish.

Drop shot, shaky head, and tubes are great ways to fish docks where there is no grass underneath and bridge pilings. For drop shotting and shaky head fishing I like the green pumpkin Mann's HardNose finesse worm. The head on this bait is very tough, while the body is very soft!  The bait stays on the hook and the pencil point tail does a whole lot of shaking! I use the plain lead Gerkin jig heads for shaky head fishing…I heat the head and coat with BROWN vinyl powdered coat available through lurecraft.com.  The area in Smoots and Spoils are great for this.  The C-Rig in there areas is also producing. You can even try deeper diving cranks like the Mann's 15+!

My new 2007 Pro Staff Skeeter ZX225 with 225 hp HPDI Yamaha is for sale!  I pre-sell these boats for December 1 delivery, 2007!  If you want a great deal on a slightly used, well-maintained boat, this is the best deal on a used Skeeter anywhere. Factory warranty transfers!  It will be less than a year old and in great shape. About 50 hours. This is the time to reserve this boat. I am asking only $32,000!  This is a great boat at a great price. SERIOUS CALLS only….  703-360-3472.

I am now the BASS FISHING EXPERT for the Boatus.com website. I will be answering fishing questions based on my experience as a guide and with a little help from my friends: other writers, manufacturers, guides and top pros will contribute to my responses. Check it out at: http://my.boatus.com/askexperts/ If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I get it answered with a little help from my friends.

This is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more!  Lure Craft molds are precise and easy to use. (www.lurecraft.com 1-800-925-9088 for a free catalog). Make straight tail finesse worms for shakey head fishing, drop shots, and split shots! They have a mold for anything and all of the supplies to pour your own custom poured baits…they can even make a mold for your design!  Ask me to take a look at some of the baits I have made or check them out on:  www.nationalbass.com (articles/lure-craft.htm) check out the NEW Lure Craft website…call now to put your orders in! 1-800-925-9088

I keep a few Frogg Toggs on board for sudden showers…whenever they come. The new Elite Series has become my year-round windbreaker and rain suit. These new Toggs are amazing and they are loaded with pockets and features…and come with a very reasonable price tag! Stop me and check it out!  Frogg Toggs (www.froggtoggs.com) are always on board.  They block the wind and are breathable!  I carry extras for my passengers!

Each time you search the internet, you can support FishAmerica's efforts to keep our fish and waters healthy.  Just visit www.goodsearch.com, enter FishAmerica as your charity of choice, and start searching!  Just 500 searches, four times a day will raise about $7,300 in a year without anyone spending a dime!  Download the GoodSearch toolbar to your web browser such as Internet Explorer.  Just visit http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/ and click Download Now!

My Sportsman's Magazine article will focus on PROP BAITS!  Hear what pros Joe Thomas and Frank Scalish say about how to fish these noisy baits.

I use specific products and mention them in my reports.  These are products I have used extensively and have confidence in.  By mentioning product names, it is easier for you to match up with what I am using. I also detail the features of many of the products I use to demonstrate their benefits.

There is a new style TEVA I just LOVE!  Karnali Wraptor (http://teva.com/ProductDetails.aspx?g=m&productID=6960&model=Karnali+Wraptor) have a toe guard!  They are perfect for water sports…. they have drains and are great for standing all day!  Check out the new TEVA sandals are actually sport shoes…especially water sports like bass fishing!   If you do not wear the sport sandals from TEVA, you should!  Just cover your feet with sunscreen and you'll feel better! I have tried other footwear, including expensive basketball shoes. TEVA's are very comfortable and have boat safe surfaces along with anti-microbial protection. These sandals are comfortable and keep me on my feet...no butt seat either!  Check out www.teva.com. 

Senior BASSMASTER writer, Robert Montgomery has taken his decades of writing and fishing experience with the best in the fishing business and compiled it into one huge E-Book. Ratio's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS contains nearly 300 VERY specific tips from pros to help you catch more fish!  I found a TON of great tips to help me.  You can get your copy of RONTICO's KILLER BASS FISHING SECRETS here: www.killer-bass-fishing-secrets.com. It's only $19.95…that's about a nickel a tip!  Well worth it! The site has some FREE tips!

FYI!!! I receive press releases from many companies. Here's one I found interesting. I have friends who have damaged their skegs and either leave them damaged, affecting performance, or have an expensive lower unit replaced. The Blackfin™ Skeg is new product made of high impact composite and is easy-to-install, with no drilling or changes to your original boat or motor. In the event of an impact; the force is equally distributed in all directions and absorbed by the flexible nature of the Blackfin™ Skeg. In the event of damage to your original stock skeg the Blackfin™ Skeg can be used to easily and inexpensively repair the damage as long as one third or more of the original skeg is still intact.  The added protection and enhanced performance of the Blackfin™Skeg make this new product a must have for any boating enthusiast.  They are available at Cabela's, and larger marine stores or conveniently online at www.blackfinskeg.com.  The suggested retail price is $69.95. For additional information on Blackfin™ Skeg contact Re: The Outdoors at 334-612-0859.

There are some great tackle specials this month at Jann's Netcraft!  If you want to be on the email list for these specials, contact me and I'll take care of it for you!  Contact Jann's Netcraft for your free catalog!  They have a great assortment of do-it-yourself supplies, and they have a great line of soft plastics too!  By this time of the year, my rod tips are just about worn out on my cranking rods. Sometimes the guides take a constant beating too! What do you do? Toss out the rod that is really still in great shape? No way!  I have learned how to replace guides on some of my favorite rods and they are ready to go!  Check out their rod building and repair supplies.  Get a tip kit, with many sizes for a variety of rods.  If you want to learn how to make repairs or even build your own custom rods, they have a great rod-building instructional book and all of the tools and parts! I also noticed they have everything you need to make crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and buzzbaits.  You can start from scratch or assemble the parts to build the baits you like to your exact specs…and save money too! Jann's Netcraft luremaking, flytying, rod building, and soft baits! They've been around for a long time and have a great selection of lure making materials too! Check them out at www.jannsnetcraft.com or call 1-800-NETCRAFT!

A note on one of my tools.  I like to use PRO's Soft Bait Glue.  While a lot of anglers are really impressed by how much money they save gluing Senkos back together, I really like the time I save!   When I skip stickworms under docks, eventually, baits tear.  Rather than stopping and retying and re-rigging, I just put a drop of glue on the tear and away I go.  One bait will stay rigged nearly all day!  I also have started using with my shakey heads. While the Mann's Hardnose bait is the only bait on the market with a super hard nose to stay on the hook better, I still put a drop to keep it from going anywhere on the head!  

As most who see me at the ramp know, I drive a 1995 Nissan 4WD truck.  This old truck really tows my Skeeter with ease!  I bought this truck from PASSPORT Nissan and I have been buying my vehicles from the owner since 1978!  If you have any questions about the NISSAN trucks, please forward to me!  Right now is a great time to consider one, as Nissan is running low interest rates or cash back on Titan, Frontier and Xterra. Bob Gasbarri knows NISSANS and he knows trucks!  Give him a call at 703-461-5279 with any towing questions!  I will demo many of their trucks throughout the year.  Let me know if you would like to set up a test drive! IF YOU CONTACT ME, I WILL GET YOU A BELOW INVOICE NO HASTLE PRICE!

I have also found a new product that is awesome!  Actually, I interviewed the makers of Hawg Pockets after they won the ICAST award for the new product showcase.  I had the gadgets in my basement for a while.  I took a fishing trip to West Virginia. My wife started to freak out when I started to load my rods with crankbaits into her new Passport Nissan Murano.  She didn't want me to hook her leather interior.  I remembered the Hawg Pockets and read the instructions and snapped them into place.  They did their job.  I also found out they didn't tangle when I moved them and I could see my bait thru them!  Check out the website.  I am using them on my boat now and it keeps my rods from tangling and I can see the baits on the rods. This is the best fishing lure guard I have ever seen!  Check them out! www.hawgpockets.com

Also look for my Tournament Talk column in Woods & Waters. This month the pros talk about attention to execution!  I cover B.A.S.S. and FLW tournament winners!  Also check out www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com. There is a limited supply of these FREE publications at Belle Haven Marina and at Bowes and Arrows. 

MIZMO tubes, Punisher Jigs, and most of the Lucky Craft and Mann's baits are now in Bass Pro Shops latest catalog….look for them!

If you want the best polarized sunglasses for fishing, I suggest Maui Jim HCL (high contrast lens) polarized sunglasses.  These are the best for picking up cover in the water and seeing the fish.  Check around, most of the serious anglers on the Potomac are wearing them.  Eye protection is important!!!  Get a quality pair of polarized sunglasses.  I recommend the Maui Jims (www.mauijim.com). Sunglass Huts carry these.  If you see me on the water, I will let you check mine out.  I am also trying the polycarbonate lens Maui Sports…. they are light as a feather and the optics are great.

For 2007 Tides information for the Potomac look under “REPORTS AND TIDES”.  Print a copy for your use.

If you like to weigh your fish or if you are a tournament angler, you NEED the XTOOLS Digital fish scale and gripper.  It is waterproof, floats, and it grips the fish so I can weigh all of my clients' fish without having to punch a hole in their mouth.  They are a sponsor of the FLW trail and just about all of the pros are using them.  I love mine.  I recently met the great people associated with the company and they demonstrated some of XTOOLS other products.  Get one of the scales…they also have one for tournament anglers with a culling system that can't be beat! www.xtools.us

If you are new to the river, get a map from GMCO. It is a pro-quality map for fishing the Potomac and for other Virginia waters. Check out their site: www.gmcomaps.com. They list some of the popular locations and some of the hidden dangers of navigating the Potomac.

Check out the biggest bass ever caught on the Potomac. (www.nationalbass.com, then REPORTS, then BIG FISH) Gary Kincheloe's record is likely to stand longer that the previous record of nearly 30 years.

Are your boat batteries sluggish? If you have questions about battery care, check out www.nationalbass.com, go to ARTICLES and then Boat Batteries.  There is also a discount offer on INTERSTATE Marine batteries.

Have fun, and I would enjoy hearing from you. If you have questions, comments or would like to book a trip, e-mail: info@nationalbass.com.  I have a lot of articles on various strategies and techniques on my site.  If you have a suggestion for an article, let me know.  Check out my website: www.nationalbass.com. I can't fish the entire river all of the time, so if you have some information to share, let me know.

Captain Steve Chaconas/National Bass Guide Service/SEOPA
"Take me fishing!"
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2/13/07

ICE. No fishing…so what do you do?

Well, that depends on your willingness to get your gear back in shape. Take all of your topwater and crankbaits out of the boat and check the hooks. Replace with Mustad Ultra Point trebles.   I even get some fingernail polish and touch up some of my baits. (I generally add a streak of orange to the bellies of my crankbaits!)  For topwaters, a new feathered treble from Mustad gets it back in top shape.

Take your spinnerbaits and replace the skirts. I take some nylon sewing thread and wrap and tie just above the rubber band on the skirt to keep it from slipping  or falling off. I use white. If I am doing this for different colors, then I take a marker and mark the thread before I tie.

I do the same for jigs. Make sure the hooks are sharp!  I also head the head and tough up with powdered coat too!  This is also a good time to pour some of your own jigs for shakey head and grub fishing too! The vinyl powder coat is available through lurecraft.com

After that, I clean all of my rods and the cork with 409 cleaner. I check all of the guides. I do not use a Q-Tip!  I use a magnifying glass and check the guides from the tip down. If the tip needs to be replaced, do it!  Jann's Netcraft has everything you need!  Get a few extra.

Now the reels.  If you do only one thing, clean the exterior and strip the line. Don't put fresh line on until you are ready for fishing again! After that, take the spool bearings off. A soaking in lighter fluid will clean them out. Spin them a few times and re-soak. Let the air dry for 15 minutes then add a high-grade oil…just a tiny drop and spin into the bearing and you are ready to go. If you want to get even more into it, tear your reel down and clean and re-lube. I use a bit of grease on my worm gears and a drop of oil. Clean the handle and oil it too.

This is a good time to pour some great finesse worms and other soft plastics. I like the molds from lurecraft.com. They have all of the supplies you would ever need. They even have various plastic mixes for floating and for softness. Go on -line to find out more! 

Mark your calendars for BASS PRO SHOPS March 2,3 and 4!  The March Madness event, Spring Classic at the Hanover, MD BASS PRO SHOPS will not only have great gear on sale, but will feature the best in bass fishing!  Jimmy Houston and Woo Daves will be there signing autographs and giving pointers. I will be giving cold-water seminars to get you ready for the first signs of a thaw!  I will be speaking at 2pm on 3/3 and at 1pm on 3/4. I hope to see you there!

Until then, get your gear ready. I think this spring will be one of the best ever on the Potomac.

Captain Steve Chaconas
 

11/19/06

A client of mine was fishing in the Spoils on OCT 14, caught an 8-pounder fishing on his own!  Now, here's his problem..another boater came by and took the photo with his camera.  My client hasn't heard from him.  It you were the one who took the pic, please email to me and I will forward to him.

This week was a very good week!  Fish are moving to docks and can be caught on jigs, plastics, and crankbaits.
Also the spinnerbait bite has been awesome!  This works well in certain areas (near deep water on  hard cover flats), at certain tides (outgoing is best, must have moving water!) with certain weather conditions (clouds or chop) and water clarity (a bit stained)!

Let's start with the spinnerbait. It is my favorite cool water technique. In fact, I rely on spinnerbaits when the water is 45-55 more than any other time of the year!  My tackle is important. I like a 6'6" 2iG Ultra Strike med/hvy casting rod with a slower reel.  If you don't have a slower (5:1) reel, just slightly under-spool your reel. Speed is the key. You must slow down. I use 14-pound test Berkley XT with a Hank Parker 3/8-ounce willow/Colorado combo. GOLD BLADES!  I can fish up to 6 feet deep. I look for areas with drops near flats with cover - rock, wood and grass. Cast and let the bait drop to the bottom. Then, barely move the bait keeping it in touch with the bottom at all times. If you don't feel the bottom, then stop. Use your rod to drag the bait to slow it down further. The bite is a tap then pull. The hookset is critical!  You must set the hook right after the tap or they will spit it out!  They don't generally slam this presentation, but will fight hard!  This is producing my better fish!

Next, the Mann's Stingray grub on a ¼ ounce round Gerkin jig head made with a MUSTAD Ultra Point hook and a Mizmo tube on a ¼ ounce Gerkin weedless insert tube head. For the 4" Mizmo tubes, I like the green pumpkin colors and the blue/craw. The Stingray is a 3" avocado!  This is the only size and color I use. If I am going to get bites on the bigger bait, I like to go back to the tubes. I also soak all of my soft plastics in Jack's Juice garlic - lots of it!  All of these are cast on 8-pound test Berkley Sensation line. Spinning tackle with a 6'6" 2iG Ultra Strike rod. Cast and DRAG!  Fish very slowly!  The area around the Wilson Bridge, Spoils and Smoots are hot spots right now!

Of course, Blue Plains is heating up too!  Here you can use split shot rigs, drop shot and Carolina Rigs. Also a shakey head presentation works!  For soft plastics, I like the Mann's Hardnose Finesse Worm in green pumpkin.  Dip the tail in chartreuse dye. I also like to use the Punisher hair jigs with the Punisher chunk and Punisher rattle! I also use the C-Rig in the Spoils and Smoots. It is best to use a Tru-Tungsten 1 ounce weight. This weight is smaller and has the sensitivity to offer more bottom feedback. You can find subtle bottom changes and other cover. Tubes, drop shot and split shot also are working in other areas along drops.

For crankbaits, I am fishing shallow around warmed surfaces! Rocks, wood, etc.  On a med action graphite 2iG-casting rod, spooled with 12-pound test Berkley XT, I like the Mann's Baby 4 and 8-Minus baits. Craw patterns are best. You need to keep this bait on the bottom, pausing when you touch the bottom. Again, control the speed by dragging the bait with the rod.

The water on the main river was too muddy for jerkbaits. But at Blue Plains it is working. Keep this tied on as the river clears again as temps stay around  50. For jerkbaits, there is one. The Lucky Craft Pointer is the best. I use the 78 and the 100 sizes, depending on water clarity. If it is very clear I will go to the smaller 78. For colors, I like baby bass and aurora gold. These baits work best on 10-12 pound test!  I like a medium action graphite rod.6' or 6'6". Twitch, twitch, twitch, then pause. Vary the length of the pause until you get the right rhythm. You might have to pause a while. I use this in water that is no more that 5 feet deep!

I have talked to a bunch of guys who are looking for Silver Buddy lures. I have a few for sale, but you can only get them now through the silverbuddy.com website!  I would get there early. There are limited supplies in stock!

Captain Steve Chaconas

Water Temp: 55 degrees
Water Clarity: 1-2 feet