tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69262421432482854822024-03-21T17:06:41.645-07:00Rookie Bass AnglerSteven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-82784372084500890262014-03-03T15:29:00.001-08:002014-03-03T15:29:37.389-08:00NEW BLOG ADDRESS<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I HAVE SWITCHED OVER TO A NEW WORDPRESS FORMAT
PLEASE VISIT</span></h2>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /> <a href="http://www.rookiebassangler.com/">www.rookiebassangler.com</a></span></h2>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /> WANTING TO TAKE MY BLOG TO A NEW LEVEL
ENJOY</span></h2>
Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-41034691847928968042014-02-07T07:01:00.000-08:002014-02-07T07:01:56.055-08:00Perfect Bass Conditions<div class="issuuembed" data-configid="10680234/6571290" style="height: 300px; width: 400px;">
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<script async="true" src="//e.issuu.com/embed.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-87372487438458996452014-01-31T10:21:00.001-08:002014-01-31T10:21:53.050-08:00Roll on spring!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhzmPkpckPrixac71U-UoUUbnCXvtLLcp0mgYlp0_5PyOoj-2bm6dSq3upYYKTJ5kViZ7uL0mXX7CP885_EeJn7WEg2WrNS3L-8duUsygQtRO1cJbPfV49hf4bBK41iLi0G0p_XNhaW-d/s1600/IMG_2589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhzmPkpckPrixac71U-UoUUbnCXvtLLcp0mgYlp0_5PyOoj-2bm6dSq3upYYKTJ5kViZ7uL0mXX7CP885_EeJn7WEg2WrNS3L-8duUsygQtRO1cJbPfV49hf4bBK41iLi0G0p_XNhaW-d/s1600/IMG_2589.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Really starting to get irritated with this weather .... spring can not come quick enough!Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-37894813525261380312014-01-20T16:28:00.000-08:002014-01-20T16:28:58.439-08:00Beating the January blues!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nctrBCfTjW8WYsNYZQmok8Efg3_yN5RWN4mDteMXlyi5gDV8KdWXrvA2VDgGllOpRCt_vHXb-r3u4RaKQkPL5vR_Dw0bnf6HwvIHznNYaG5zJnXdnECgtGBLjmgd8FWpH7hULBjmtSnV/s1600/Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nctrBCfTjW8WYsNYZQmok8Efg3_yN5RWN4mDteMXlyi5gDV8KdWXrvA2VDgGllOpRCt_vHXb-r3u4RaKQkPL5vR_Dw0bnf6HwvIHznNYaG5zJnXdnECgtGBLjmgd8FWpH7hULBjmtSnV/s1600/Beach.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally we get a calm spell in the weather. The sun is out, the sky is blue and that horrid wind has dropped. All sounds perfect ..... I have two words for you - Ground Swell!<br /><br />We set off on Saturday morning with high hopes until we reached our vantage point and could see the waves crashing over the rocks. Whilst very impressive is was hardly very conducive for fishing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVHQ5Z2CMqvy83Swhe6xthmcfC4Yqeng-hKv79_4XXskz-D6C8iYsVdYjxLjMR0TEP_4CawX-lSnSCcQKdeBESS6pw_iyYlS414ja9pRTMcRBXgNvihBAjUjQ6lq7OEAnxKhyLF1_a35p/s1600/Waves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVHQ5Z2CMqvy83Swhe6xthmcfC4Yqeng-hKv79_4XXskz-D6C8iYsVdYjxLjMR0TEP_4CawX-lSnSCcQKdeBESS6pw_iyYlS414ja9pRTMcRBXgNvihBAjUjQ6lq7OEAnxKhyLF1_a35p/s1600/Waves.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I decided to unleash the big guns and out came the Fiiish 140 Black Minnow. This lure really is a lump but it looks savage. Big conditions, big lure, big fish?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQmwH7VLaqMSeUS9IujaIGFOmoGnrsjc8iYQEs3C9tyujQtbmFuyjPbfTtRl8lvVDG_0n7fsoXkWWk8HyHSJLSm6ganKc5X4mNkIeirdPQAAX-qDbGJvkNBwNA1caKyhiTb7OLng8Cs3kf/s1600/Fiiish+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQmwH7VLaqMSeUS9IujaIGFOmoGnrsjc8iYQEs3C9tyujQtbmFuyjPbfTtRl8lvVDG_0n7fsoXkWWk8HyHSJLSm6ganKc5X4mNkIeirdPQAAX-qDbGJvkNBwNA1caKyhiTb7OLng8Cs3kf/s1600/Fiiish+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I whacked the lure out into the maelstrom in front of me. As the lure was falling through the water I felt one hard, positive knock on the rod. I tightened the line and lifted into it. Fish on!<br /><br />It wasn't a massive fish but it was a welcome sight. The first salt water fish of 2014 and it was in great condition.</div>
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It was great to have our efforts rewarded. It was rough and a little challenging but we weren't giving up. This was our only opportunity to get out and by hook or by crook we were determined to catch a few pollack. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzY9eqm5bfcs2NZl-WcVgQmijVoIOb6kFOYnpST6ezHPi1zeXHX-fUEgyVCllkOEfBkuyi1TwDqj4Qmb9SyRrywTwR_TBq7Waob7-bO_ten2O8O10-wn12HsCdLULPNBMVnF9XygEbylRm/s1600/Fiiish+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzY9eqm5bfcs2NZl-WcVgQmijVoIOb6kFOYnpST6ezHPi1zeXHX-fUEgyVCllkOEfBkuyi1TwDqj4Qmb9SyRrywTwR_TBq7Waob7-bO_ten2O8O10-wn12HsCdLULPNBMVnF9XygEbylRm/s1600/Fiiish+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /><br />The larger lure profile certainly helped in the rougher water. I felt that the bigger lure held up in the stronger currents and presented a much clearer target for the fish. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJjPDRsdd-F4jEt1IiRy4knQukCDE-ObpVr2byiZLxSwrkNTzJ5zcMWHCsEXfijfyc_eNv6Gx7QpwHy29W9sehRV_IBM1CLgyCKwruvwR57-Jzq3Juhs3x4armD68pNNHR0SWL6jVpDta/s1600/GOPR0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJjPDRsdd-F4jEt1IiRy4knQukCDE-ObpVr2byiZLxSwrkNTzJ5zcMWHCsEXfijfyc_eNv6Gx7QpwHy29W9sehRV_IBM1CLgyCKwruvwR57-Jzq3Juhs3x4armD68pNNHR0SWL6jVpDta/s1600/GOPR0026.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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As we got pushed off one set of rocks we moved onto another in search of more feeding fish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qKDkWxFCwcKlz4EZ56anFSXaNThjgs9hrhbQMFSDgWfFuZxr132RdMXVGejc4uhgrAByqWrLvCCSDSwrn3KjDYLJxzzwlYjLRzG3yV0sxwz8Ao7A8OcodGeQHUuhA3KQObSpWGOwQBK-/s1600/P1180306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qKDkWxFCwcKlz4EZ56anFSXaNThjgs9hrhbQMFSDgWfFuZxr132RdMXVGejc4uhgrAByqWrLvCCSDSwrn3KjDYLJxzzwlYjLRzG3yV0sxwz8Ao7A8OcodGeQHUuhA3KQObSpWGOwQBK-/s1600/P1180306.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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6 inch bubblegum pink Lunker City Sluggo worked a treat in the oxygenated waters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQa79mS5wAIa1mjXa26e1idXBP1yY1xGrKx2Mn_ECXvoEH9klANPqNnkjRbTqXcFrmeiTu9R6a9H-dNNO6j1EE98fDfPwDYLmCecjtpx5ifJ7IK9XKqMZnAosWrotQ34PN0eqtCJupyBzR/s1600/P1180327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQa79mS5wAIa1mjXa26e1idXBP1yY1xGrKx2Mn_ECXvoEH9klANPqNnkjRbTqXcFrmeiTu9R6a9H-dNNO6j1EE98fDfPwDYLmCecjtpx5ifJ7IK9XKqMZnAosWrotQ34PN0eqtCJupyBzR/s1600/P1180327.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another small but hard fighting pollack to round off the trip.<br />
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The sea may still have been mental but we managed a few fish and that was all it took to lift the spirits. I have been sitting in the house watching all these storms blow through, itching to get out and wet a line in salt water.<br />
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Finally, our chance arrived and it paid off - the season has begun!<br />
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Tight lines.<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-91588970221407665432014-01-13T03:44:00.000-08:002014-01-13T03:44:24.186-08:00Megabass Miyabi Strikes Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZOapMxiATnG61S2n2O0xOnLLgeRRJQClp80hVa6xAfBPCk3Rx6a5qWBfgKMompon4BQgIVgcVNsRh5YspE-qv249WZMVs_NUUT9M7JdOGrQNBs9DoP7Shq0DGzqRRYJmasoHraP71RXl/s1600/Pike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZOapMxiATnG61S2n2O0xOnLLgeRRJQClp80hVa6xAfBPCk3Rx6a5qWBfgKMompon4BQgIVgcVNsRh5YspE-qv249WZMVs_NUUT9M7JdOGrQNBs9DoP7Shq0DGzqRRYJmasoHraP71RXl/s640/Pike.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another session chasing Pike waiting for seas to calm down so I can get back out in the salt for a few Wrasse and Pollack. </div>
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Starting to really like the Megabass Vision 100 Miyabi - Pike go mad for it. Also looking at trying out the Megabass Anthrax as well!<br /><br />Tight lines. </div>
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Steve.</div>
<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-18461469231987040092014-01-06T09:06:00.001-08:002014-01-06T09:06:59.445-08:00Go Pro first outing!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Out testing the new Go Pro while Pike fishing the other day. </div>
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Takes a bit of getting used to but overall it is really easy to operate. </div>
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Look forward to getting out in saltwater with it. </div>
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Anyway, a quick clip of a Pike caught on a Megabass Vision 100 Miyabi.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-40766231586713025742013-12-28T09:02:00.001-08:002013-12-28T09:02:48.826-08:00Boxing Day Piking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsmRel2qXf5ga_5oMgTwo2YLfRYP_4hZMUausUXMqoInZueSXhYUPMFBKnMiiL5ITZiw3HlVngjE-PoBZ3cpHYLh_DElR1Kr7yo2oFLuK9rbrL6PKxwStApW0KWGJ3Y2_wX3NhKBqaRW1/s1600/sluggo+pike+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsmRel2qXf5ga_5oMgTwo2YLfRYP_4hZMUausUXMqoInZueSXhYUPMFBKnMiiL5ITZiw3HlVngjE-PoBZ3cpHYLh_DElR1Kr7yo2oFLuK9rbrL6PKxwStApW0KWGJ3Y2_wX3NhKBqaRW1/s640/sluggo+pike+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Just a quick update on my adventures over Christmas.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />First off, I hope everyone got a visit from Santa and got plenty of shiny new lures and fishing goodies. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />I was lucky enough to get a Go Pro, so stay tuned for my adventures with it - when I get the chance to get out and try it!</span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />We had a rather slow, and unproductive day at the Pike but we still managed a few.<br />It was a lovely day, bright, crisp, cold and sunny ..... so I guess it wasn't all bad.</span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_YP3mMPFmO_W20qpkab3WyM-c91ROLjnCa2MIpwYaXcC40OrHtrKk7YsKqkE7PO8NbbY7TONrcXE4vqiIkuE3WkcZichYjFbr2qVXKgX7DY2b9IxYhtGmILsmk_T4wwdcLFzDqxPw0Ko/s1600/dot+crawler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_YP3mMPFmO_W20qpkab3WyM-c91ROLjnCa2MIpwYaXcC40OrHtrKk7YsKqkE7PO8NbbY7TONrcXE4vqiIkuE3WkcZichYjFbr2qVXKgX7DY2b9IxYhtGmILsmk_T4wwdcLFzDqxPw0Ko/s640/dot+crawler.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Megabass Dot Crawler fished over the weed beds.<br /><br /><h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Fish were not huge but in really nice condition which is promising and good to see. </span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wilRnHOlTpRkqiiYZfuIe_PiiW9MhGbDXDVUUZWPkkxZQPqueWOT3OCzJssmJk8zzxVarCRcC1bzo47rFVXgXpILIa338z8WIMiwDYIV7jvHvHCOq54EoEqN_IqK-N7ZKgO9V8hpLbzC/s1600/sluggo+pike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wilRnHOlTpRkqiiYZfuIe_PiiW9MhGbDXDVUUZWPkkxZQPqueWOT3OCzJssmJk8zzxVarCRcC1bzo47rFVXgXpILIa338z8WIMiwDYIV7jvHvHCOq54EoEqN_IqK-N7ZKgO9V8hpLbzC/s640/sluggo+pike.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Lunker City Sluggo fished slowly along the bottom produced this other hungry Pike. It really was a struggle to find the fish, we tried all sorts of plugs and plastics but in the end we were happy to even get a bend in the rod and a breath of fresh air. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Looking forward to wetting a line over the New Year and hopefully getting the Go Pro out. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />Keep you posted. </span></h3>
Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-4554808751599148922013-12-23T07:06:00.001-08:002013-12-23T07:06:24.317-08:00Merry Christmas <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTtfOekRqux5wu4SgzQFW67e-uFpeKftORLyrvC_0h363Ydur08rOE55O0via5d_DDzry-VlWKaO0W855-ksFr7yDdlr86TyulQh1-G2K_jJ5nFvEyzsSKlNM6IEql7WIi2tGzmDP20xVP/s1600/title+ps+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTtfOekRqux5wu4SgzQFW67e-uFpeKftORLyrvC_0h363Ydur08rOE55O0via5d_DDzry-VlWKaO0W855-ksFr7yDdlr86TyulQh1-G2K_jJ5nFvEyzsSKlNM6IEql7WIi2tGzmDP20xVP/s640/title+ps+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><br />Just a quick post to say thanks to all my followers and readers.<br />
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It has been a busy year, perhaps not as much fishing as I would have liked but next year will be the one to watch out for.<br />
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Stay tuned and hope you all have a great holiday!<br />
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Tight lines,<br />
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Steven.Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-3823933852501377232013-12-17T03:38:00.002-08:002013-12-17T03:38:27.222-08:00Super Sonic Hounds<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmwg5spTf6VGRXPpyuRMnMJaQzk5Onm5m3ayfl25q6BybJAq4oOv_THXpZgTG10VcDD0GzCljJLuQFC1TCSb2WyVJDXayI58YF_H7gShLXG7d2DOmjC54xfnUr9LNOvVgAsjx4k0v3hQz/s1600/PC130194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmwg5spTf6VGRXPpyuRMnMJaQzk5Onm5m3ayfl25q6BybJAq4oOv_THXpZgTG10VcDD0GzCljJLuQFC1TCSb2WyVJDXayI58YF_H7gShLXG7d2DOmjC54xfnUr9LNOvVgAsjx4k0v3hQz/s640/PC130194.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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IMA Sonic 100 F</h2>
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I am a massive fan of the IMA Hound Glide 125 F - it is very difficult to find a lure that punches into an onshore wind just quite like it. When you need a lure to hold down in rougher conditions looks no further!<br />
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But have you ever been out Bass fishing when the fish simply won't look at big lures? This is where the IMA 100 F Sonic comes into play.<br />
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This 100 mm plug casts like its bigger brother and digs in well too - the perfect package for when the Bass are fixated on smaller lures.<br />
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This one deserves a place in your lure box for next season!<br />
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Available at:<br />
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<a href="http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/ima-hound-100f-sonic/">http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/ima-hound-100f-sonic/</a></h3>
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Spec sheet:</h2>
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Length: 100 mm<br />
Weight: 14 g<br />
Diving depth: 40 - 80 cm<br />
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Colours:</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wPRpVXT-fVAmbNvD2v0Bf7f-p5V8Fh5Ito2I_W_eM76L7WWnvlYCBq4uvbZCbtCneQ840h4Q8WQDC6LWYwaunYO-zfHOqeYU4oTtaigw5Nqeyoofca9BzWXEkvJ2hRKZ1Z1NDRkEn4ra/s1600/100+F+Sonic+Candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wPRpVXT-fVAmbNvD2v0Bf7f-p5V8Fh5Ito2I_W_eM76L7WWnvlYCBq4uvbZCbtCneQ840h4Q8WQDC6LWYwaunYO-zfHOqeYU4oTtaigw5Nqeyoofca9BzWXEkvJ2hRKZ1Z1NDRkEn4ra/s320/100+F+Sonic+Candy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Cotton Candy</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSf7oHhyphenhyphen2s7LpScgY6Afw2OvMrJDV2V9iby8tf8xzosnEhxuKGjPnSNXk2qxqhTsSU99g2glFujljtAdf0dlH0Zugt49NOtMdnwOAxDt4leu5pyU7OY77qlocp-e1xrCjkD2Y0TWmHcCDW/s1600/100+F+Sonic+SRB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSf7oHhyphenhyphen2s7LpScgY6Afw2OvMrJDV2V9iby8tf8xzosnEhxuKGjPnSNXk2qxqhTsSU99g2glFujljtAdf0dlH0Zugt49NOtMdnwOAxDt4leu5pyU7OY77qlocp-e1xrCjkD2Y0TWmHcCDW/s320/100+F+Sonic+SRB.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Sardine Red Belly</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOQoqds27rFst3sDKvJiwQGGPJFc9q-FyrYMNxT53YG0-i0yQPBWbP5VobIzHthxFbYbU0PZFg09nIwk8qxBi-mOTvtDUtpQzmPEirYuvIKYE4H29Kc0Ihu3e2xzL0ltJRN1oCuZWAzFZ/s1600/sonic+bora+mullet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOQoqds27rFst3sDKvJiwQGGPJFc9q-FyrYMNxT53YG0-i0yQPBWbP5VobIzHthxFbYbU0PZFg09nIwk8qxBi-mOTvtDUtpQzmPEirYuvIKYE4H29Kc0Ihu3e2xzL0ltJRN1oCuZWAzFZ/s320/sonic+bora+mullet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Bora Mullet</h2>
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-54548458334906917282013-12-14T04:46:00.000-08:002013-12-14T04:46:02.665-08:00The perfect hard bait for Sea Trout?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemQsqmNVv5Hpf4o8qfAtC-paHM0uBEAQjks3VeoJxTwJQz6eIpjcwuijrZDZ5zWE2ah-8HmGck2Q-twmPa-kRJOcMsfGR-gO_uaYk59ASqJVrZe4LfafhxzI6ZSDGAlk1_D9auTJ-cVNh/s1600/PC130207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemQsqmNVv5Hpf4o8qfAtC-paHM0uBEAQjks3VeoJxTwJQz6eIpjcwuijrZDZ5zWE2ah-8HmGck2Q-twmPa-kRJOcMsfGR-gO_uaYk59ASqJVrZe4LfafhxzI6ZSDGAlk1_D9auTJ-cVNh/s640/PC130207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Illex Rolla Minnow:</h3>
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Length - 100 mm</div>
Weight - 5.1 g<br />
Sinking<br />
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<a href="http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-rolla-minnow/">http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-rolla-minnow/</a><br />
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This is a new 2014 lure for Illex and I have to say it looks stunning! I have yet to see another hard plug which resembles a sand eel as well as this!<br /><br />It is so slim and has a semi transparent top with a killer ayu/olive underside.<br />
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It comes equipped with three treble hooks which is over kill so I would immediately switch these to either singles or possibly two barb-less trebles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q_G_DaOcfC6zbP2Dpa6Bi4S0vA_tVDlebQfaGJoWTz4dCuzHXjTwrDIDe4V0Wx90l9WIdgoDN4poCcUZKTM15Ou84C78wuVT4Tfd8uT7t3440jSEwSdyGPZ3mzXlugc2vip7moFY9WXO/s1600/PC130205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q_G_DaOcfC6zbP2Dpa6Bi4S0vA_tVDlebQfaGJoWTz4dCuzHXjTwrDIDe4V0Wx90l9WIdgoDN4poCcUZKTM15Ou84C78wuVT4Tfd8uT7t3440jSEwSdyGPZ3mzXlugc2vip7moFY9WXO/s640/PC130205.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Despite it being a light lure it casts well due to a well placed weight system.<br />
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It will sink but once the retrieve is started it will swim in the top 20 -30 cm of the water.<br />
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Probably best fished with added twitches to mimic a distressed sand eel or pausing it allowing it to sink and fall down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmo7HeiTAW93tJQOE1rmRZrME8sAe5dtz6P7bUM6tEkDtoZT5uFcAgEPQLusWAT3aMd0cjIWnOGJCdk8AQIkeHx5vec3itUbhCMb4x-1rIWrAcRwBbDaUZJokKUqxhDfYbMXix5L1Oa5mx/s1600/Rolla+Minnow+Wakasagi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmo7HeiTAW93tJQOE1rmRZrME8sAe5dtz6P7bUM6tEkDtoZT5uFcAgEPQLusWAT3aMd0cjIWnOGJCdk8AQIkeHx5vec3itUbhCMb4x-1rIWrAcRwBbDaUZJokKUqxhDfYbMXix5L1Oa5mx/s640/Rolla+Minnow+Wakasagi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is certainly one to bear in mind for next season - I am sure this will cause some stir once the fishing picks up and I am sure a few Bass will nail them as well in calm clear conditions.<br />
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<a href="http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-rolla-minnow/">http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-rolla-minnow/</a>Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-1830098330408223132013-12-08T10:01:00.000-08:002013-12-08T10:01:32.893-08:00A spot of Pike fishing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXOb39zKa_WL22xFPnVbN9lqltZ_kjGhxyeF2TBfHafX4eahRMShFRhXGBs439T4ImL8-ghOeVIwnLach9y3ATadE7EGsy29sdYId0cD8tlxv2qOip439E4uYpVoIKI6wZCUfZ7SRKKWK/s1600/PB300152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXOb39zKa_WL22xFPnVbN9lqltZ_kjGhxyeF2TBfHafX4eahRMShFRhXGBs439T4ImL8-ghOeVIwnLach9y3ATadE7EGsy29sdYId0cD8tlxv2qOip439E4uYpVoIKI6wZCUfZ7SRKKWK/s640/PB300152.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Due to various other commitments I have been unable to get out for a chuck in the salt but I was getting itchy fingers and I needed to get out of the house.<br />
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The weather looked decent - cold, bright and not too windy so we headed off for a spot of Pike fishing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpByNX2kM0LaB5VprLpmhTsfQ6aCdC9AJ9nMuhcmMx30aAM1nqKGrpnGJo84mpJuN62LoF22yl4diKbwsBpT7Q-2I8ePUTfjhLcr4-xu1dW1s58FgOJgebPbOLcxChLpgl5GSx2QdRO_g/s1600/PB300172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpByNX2kM0LaB5VprLpmhTsfQ6aCdC9AJ9nMuhcmMx30aAM1nqKGrpnGJo84mpJuN62LoF22yl4diKbwsBpT7Q-2I8ePUTfjhLcr4-xu1dW1s58FgOJgebPbOLcxChLpgl5GSx2QdRO_g/s640/PB300172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was a lovely day to be out and just clear the head.<br />
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Below is the new Illex Jockie 120 F in Attract Pink colour. It is a shallow diving lure with a great wobble. It swims in the top 20 cm and I reckon it will be a killer for Bass and other predatory fish.<br /><br />
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<a href="http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-jockie-120-f/">http://fishonlures.co.uk/shop/illex-jockie-120-f/</a></h3>
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It produced a fish in the first 10 minutes - great start!<br />
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It was a false start though ..... we fished hard for the next few hours with no results before finally landing another an hour before the light faded.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPijrmeojzkh47mT0pKFnNXBX_VLIlx4pA5fBmWGMSQ0a17VtOeO3jfdI5MiFeOt_WGNFTWG-W6ZDGCurQRm8XUAc-DEtWKE1zq21T-MiOzhHjw37qIz1nkOXNyysGDjwZt5wj8CHJX-12/s1600/PB300185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPijrmeojzkh47mT0pKFnNXBX_VLIlx4pA5fBmWGMSQ0a17VtOeO3jfdI5MiFeOt_WGNFTWG-W6ZDGCurQRm8XUAc-DEtWKE1zq21T-MiOzhHjw37qIz1nkOXNyysGDjwZt5wj8CHJX-12/s640/PB300185.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It will be interesting to see how the new Illex plug will perform in saltwater but I am sure it will prove to be a regular in my lure box from now on.</div>
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Tight lines. </div>
<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-60050619919720045852013-11-04T15:05:00.001-08:002013-11-04T15:05:49.177-08:00Irish Angler November Edition <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnIX1plJw_QZ4xUzK-ogNdQ9gb6FeA1qjjwAhfMlhZLb4kGRhUoYJz15WjCGi2Zjr0sQy4B-L00ohbaKZTXCgeIlo5WOVoTKkiwhkzbdX-7aETJ5oyP2X3xkj6TGCNEKcEoYdsUYKjnDW/s1600/1383476_10151941932755827_1753844490_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnIX1plJw_QZ4xUzK-ogNdQ9gb6FeA1qjjwAhfMlhZLb4kGRhUoYJz15WjCGi2Zjr0sQy4B-L00ohbaKZTXCgeIlo5WOVoTKkiwhkzbdX-7aETJ5oyP2X3xkj6TGCNEKcEoYdsUYKjnDW/s640/1383476_10151941932755827_1753844490_n.jpg" width="451" /></a></div>
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November edition of Irish Angler hit the shelves on Friday so go grab yourself a copy. Some interesting reads as always. </div>
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It always gets frustrating at this time of year when you look back at the season past and then the inevitable decline of the fishing ahead due to weather etc. </div>
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Let us stay optimistic though .... !</div>
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Stay tuned. </div>
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-20162089648295664402013-10-29T09:46:00.002-07:002013-10-29T09:46:24.473-07:00Perch Adventures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been promising myself to specifically target Perch on the lure gear and on Saturday I finally took the plunge. We geared up with small metal spoons, jigs, plugs and soft plastics - all the usual suspects really plus a few secret weapons of course!<br />
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As always the weather was far from ideal. 7 degrees and torrential rain made it, lets say a little cold and wet! </div>
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Normally this would dampen the spirits but it was apparent that after the first few casts the place was stuffed full of Perch! The first cast produced a fish - not big but a fish. Was this a sign of things to come or was it simply one of those days were you catch a fish at start and never get a touch the rest of the day?</div>
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Thankfully our luck was in and the place was just crammed full of fish!</div>
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We started off using Illex Pintails on small jig heads which seemed to work rather well. We then switched over to some small sinking plugs made by IMA and DUO such as the Sukari and Spearhead Ryuki. These accounted for a few fish but they seemed to be more tuned into the soft lures.<br />
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As always the Fiiish 70 mm Black Minnow was deadly effective and it wasn't long before we had well over 50 Perch between us.<br />
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I decided to change tactics and rig up a 3inch Senko rigged Texas style with a 3g cone lead. I picked my target area which was a submerged tree stump - cast the lure in and let it contact the bottom. A quick twitch and jiggle of the lure resulted in a sharp thump and then - bang. Fish on! It was a great feeling to be actively hunting out the bigger fish around the heavy structure.<br />
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Hopefully this is just the start of our fresh water adventures - now the weather is starting to turn and our chances on the open coast are diminishing rapidly it will be Pike and Perch in the coming months.<br />
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We had nearly 100 fish between the two of us - what a day despite the rain and cold.<br /><br />Stay tuned.<br />
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Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-46090540856478893302013-10-04T11:25:00.001-07:002013-10-04T11:25:12.428-07:00October Edition Irish Angler - Bumping Plastics For Bass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzORhCc9ia3n_-Xqo7yj8VZPHEBCeeBVhz-4s6DBW1QORohoStoCWgyukaM0FHP1N44do4IqIo_5ubryChFzP1T2tGxrDt-oN1iBVV9h0oHSl1dEN_qEvqqrgRHExbzt_4nreAKuaxJapr/s1600/531952_10151886178650827_444677915_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzORhCc9ia3n_-Xqo7yj8VZPHEBCeeBVhz-4s6DBW1QORohoStoCWgyukaM0FHP1N44do4IqIo_5ubryChFzP1T2tGxrDt-oN1iBVV9h0oHSl1dEN_qEvqqrgRHExbzt_4nreAKuaxJapr/s640/531952_10151886178650827_444677915_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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October edition hit the shelves today. This month I have an article in about bumping soft plastics for Bass - a killer technique and with the world going soft plastic mad it is worth checking out.</div>
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Get yourself a copy and stick the kettle on. </div>
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Also available online. </div>
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Check out Irish Angler website:</div>
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<a href="http://www.irishangler.ie/">http://www.irishangler.ie/</a></h3>
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-67007501354983730342013-10-03T08:22:00.001-07:002013-10-03T08:22:37.888-07:00Illex Element Rider S 210 M - Stalking Special (5-21g)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2KZdax3-7Cy6un23erhX2aT_7G6X4e9pc0bIffoQHOqr4nQ845tCcUxx1nM8m-XPqCm9_PIjfOqn_lmMa78E3dkefM_KyJNkHMiH60cOaJiAw-DScLKA_U4Fvu6nsw_phSFFP9Dcn7ss/s1600/blog+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2KZdax3-7Cy6un23erhX2aT_7G6X4e9pc0bIffoQHOqr4nQ845tCcUxx1nM8m-XPqCm9_PIjfOqn_lmMa78E3dkefM_KyJNkHMiH60cOaJiAw-DScLKA_U4Fvu6nsw_phSFFP9Dcn7ss/s640/blog+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am sure you have all seen this rod appearing in my photographs and pictures throughout my blog - lets face it, it isn't exactly subtle!<br />
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I have been fishing with the S 210 M now since the spring and ever since the first time I picked it up I was impressed with the build quality and fittings. The Fuji reel seat is comfortable, well shaped and just makes perfect sense when the reel is mounted. It feels natural.<br />
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Some people will be put off by the staggered tip .... yes, it can be a pain in the backside at times when transporting it or trying to get a courier to ship it within the U.K. (But that is a story for another day!)<br />
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I like the staggered tip though - it transfers the power quickly into the back end and the feel and sensitivity is superb.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67n261ZahhPoPM_b8HadvBMS3ezZB4qkDDnE-qq7hHtZHaGzabPRg3aKXJZUA2suqQHAckeeB8ux8OLeqcU4hRquaFFGxvXgx5jklXLOcCSyVtqd7IVEAp0vEtLiz5iMKYUUEs5lSnv-4/s1600/P7180333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67n261ZahhPoPM_b8HadvBMS3ezZB4qkDDnE-qq7hHtZHaGzabPRg3aKXJZUA2suqQHAckeeB8ux8OLeqcU4hRquaFFGxvXgx5jklXLOcCSyVtqd7IVEAp0vEtLiz5iMKYUUEs5lSnv-4/s640/P7180333.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My first fish on the rod was a Sea Trout. I spent the first few weeks chucking jigs, metal and plugs ranging from 3g to 18g on it and it really handles them all with ease. I was surprised actually at how light it can throw ... of course it isn't as sensitive as a purpose built LRF rod but when loaded up with light line it can still transmit feedback from smaller lures.<br />
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It wasn't until my trip over to Wales that I managed to nail my first Bass on it. The first day we went out we were wading in the shallows, bright blue sky, roasting day - it was stunning. I was fishing a weed less, soft plastic among the suspended weed and bang - fish on! A great rod for fishing soft plastics and in fact if I had to categorize this rod I would say this is where it comes into its own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE0aF26m24qzvJzzy7WdJBYjH09g_0O9GiW4AfCqAK7SyEv89h4evtPRLjRUxR4PeqBWfPbjhXrz_CFeq_3StGCLt7RMds0ZtpxBkX7ymQQ4q9Z_uPWiI4DlvqluYqbUrA9X1pHGUZGp2/s1600/P1030096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE0aF26m24qzvJzzy7WdJBYjH09g_0O9GiW4AfCqAK7SyEv89h4evtPRLjRUxR4PeqBWfPbjhXrz_CFeq_3StGCLt7RMds0ZtpxBkX7ymQQ4q9Z_uPWiI4DlvqluYqbUrA9X1pHGUZGp2/s640/P1030096.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A combination of a stiff-ish yet responsive tip mixed with a powerful back section allows you to detect bites then strike into and control relatively large fish. I have yet to tackle anything bigger than 5lbs on the rod but so far it has not worried me when playing a fish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUGZgsnWjy0oW46RuWD0qJQG3WERfNhpmCoM0LmuGXEu3zoM7AY6mYYewwo64oLbMIWVixQRRlm1p1XuneyQDsalcw-fW0CvnEvToUlvUTY0L3mgblTuN4_iU0wC44_Ab7nG_YwoCRN4O/s1600/P8300502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUGZgsnWjy0oW46RuWD0qJQG3WERfNhpmCoM0LmuGXEu3zoM7AY6mYYewwo64oLbMIWVixQRRlm1p1XuneyQDsalcw-fW0CvnEvToUlvUTY0L3mgblTuN4_iU0wC44_Ab7nG_YwoCRN4O/s640/P8300502.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like I said I think this rod comes into its own when using all manner of soft plastics from weightless lures, micro plastics on jig heads to larger shads and paddle tails - it really is a delight to fish with. Recently I have been using the Fiiish 90 mm Black Minnow on this rod and the two just work in perfect harmony. You can feel the tail vibrating through the rod as the lure falls and every little bump or hit gets picked up and transferred into the rod and your arm.<br />
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The one thing that does however annoy me a little is the shortness of the handle. I feel it is about 2 or 3 inches off being perfect. After long periods of time fishing your wrist does get a little sore because you can not properly brace the rod against your forearm. This does become noticeable when fighting bigger fish but it isn't a major issue just a slight inconvenience.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUR4nkUujPkhZzK6BM-PeSBj186MKKq9KAmLz-HK58C2CLq02F54OQ-ZiHlPrrGxvrbFPju2muEjbamfMaY3KyvuXhc21UkGr54SiYcbmptNDQ824KHHOyt0tnFu1mXEvlO-tMRX_Kvsq4/s1600/pollack+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUR4nkUujPkhZzK6BM-PeSBj186MKKq9KAmLz-HK58C2CLq02F54OQ-ZiHlPrrGxvrbFPju2muEjbamfMaY3KyvuXhc21UkGr54SiYcbmptNDQ824KHHOyt0tnFu1mXEvlO-tMRX_Kvsq4/s640/pollack+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just a few thoughts on this rod - really wish I had have discovered Illex as a brand sooner ..... Great product and I am sure I will be using their rods again in the future.<br /><br /><br />
<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-64381259281574499252013-10-02T10:21:00.002-07:002013-10-02T10:21:27.001-07:00Weekend in the West: Part Two - Pollack <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1W7uWHLy91AFrMdWTJWZr2UKPucz-ltNpcQ-mblNQ21ukNffghlEMGT9UuPXsdx_-tYLr8VwFVoCDdsGULHDwX-QOWWWq5xDIIxjswdcjfYTm9XF3cjDELV2iaP9wFTz9FjcT8BE7h_O/s1600/IMG_2670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1W7uWHLy91AFrMdWTJWZr2UKPucz-ltNpcQ-mblNQ21ukNffghlEMGT9UuPXsdx_-tYLr8VwFVoCDdsGULHDwX-QOWWWq5xDIIxjswdcjfYTm9XF3cjDELV2iaP9wFTz9FjcT8BE7h_O/s640/IMG_2670.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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I had a blog post up the other day about my Wrasse exploits from the weekend. We also nailed a few nice Pollack but I thought it was best split into two separate posts so here we go ...... BUT before we start some of you will be wondering - those fish aren't 5lb ..... And you are right I only have up the ones up to 4lb, the bigger ones are still being edited so watch this space.</div>
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At various stages last year we witnessed some very large Pollack follow the lures to our feet but not committing. We watched fish in excess of 7lb swim right past us with no inclination to feed - it was frustrating and just down right odd. This year we haven't encountered any beats of the same calibre but we did manage a few up to just over 5lb, which believe me certainly puts a bend in the rod.</div>
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The first few casts attracted some interest but no solid hook ups. Simply fished sink and draw the action of the Black Minnow lure is unreal.<br />
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A Pollack of around 4 lb came up from the depths, hung for a second and then crash dived, smashing the lure on the way down. The rod nearly was pulled from my hand. After a very close quarter battle we netted the fish and got a few snaps before sending it back to the depths.<br />
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The Fiiish Black Minnow really does the business when it comes to Pollack fishing.<br />
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After fishing for a while on our first spot we decided to grab a bite to eat and relocate around the corner to another nice spot. The granite rocks step down into deepish water and there is a nice current flooding through a narrow gap - perfect Pollack territory. It wasn't long that my Dad hit this fish on a chartreuse paddle tail lure.<br />
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The one thing I noticed was all the fish were in great condition. Some of the Pollack we have had in the past can be lean and a bit slim but these fish were solid and packed full of food.<br />
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Along with some slightly bigger fish we hit the usual carbon copy Pollack all between 1lb and 2lb weight.<br />
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Switching over to the Illex Element Rider Stalking Special made for great sport with these smaller fish. I also switched down to the 90mm Black Minnow fished sink and draw.<br />
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This is the kind of fishing I love - getting out on the rocks with minimal tackle and roaming around searching out the fish. A great way to pass a weekend away from the town and cities.</div>
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The Illex rod performing to its best as always!<br />
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That rounds up the weekend and hopefully if the weather stays settled we might get out for a few trips yet.<br /><br />Tight lines.Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-17891204324845386922013-10-01T07:44:00.005-07:002013-10-01T07:44:56.846-07:00Weekend in the West: Part 1 - Wrasse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been a while since I have had the time to really sit down and do a proper blog post. So first off - I apologize for that.</div>
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The weather all summer has been, lets say, less than kind to me on the West coast. Huge swells have stopped me getting access to my favorite lure fishing grounds but thankfully we had a break in the weather and we headed out in search of some Wrasse.<br />
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Any time I have managed to get out I have been having great success of the Illex Ammonite Shad in the watermelon / bluegill colour. The Wrasse simply love them. I have tried this lure rigged Texas style and it works but I have had more hits using a 7g Jika rig - Just goes to show the presentation really can make a huge difference to bites.</div>
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I also started to play about using black lures - something which I have read about and heard others talk about but not something I had tried before. It wasn't long before we smashed a few using the 4 and 1/2 inch Sluggo rigged with a glass bead and lead.<br />
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It still frazzles my brain that nobody else is out chasing these wonderful fish on lures around the North West .... I have yet to meet another lure fisherman or another angler for that matter. It just screams HRF for Wrasse! I am only learning about the art of catching Wrasse on soft plastics but I would love to see someone with the knowledge and expertise to come and explore this part of the world with me. I am pretty sure it has a lot of hidden gems lurking beneath my feet.<br />
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I love my photographing but the best part is always watching them kick back and swim off down to the boulders and kelp.<br />
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The weather (as always) was changeable and we got all four seasons thrown at us in the space of two days but we stuck at it - I was determined to squeeze in as much fishing as I could while we still had some sort of calm weather and before the cold starts to set in.<br />
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It has been great fishing with the Century HPR 7ft 7 - A simply awesome rod for battling Wrasse in heavy ground. It has great tip sensitivity yet powerful to wrench those pigs out from their hiding spots.<br />
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We found it hard to track down any great numbers of fish but moving around seemed to produce steady bites and hook ups. No insane quantities but we still managed to nail a good few.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Hopefully if the weather holds up we will be able to make another few session before things start to slow up for the year. Keep an eye out on the blog next week for the other half of our weekend in the West. I will have our Pollack pictures up. </span></div>
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Stay tuned!<br /><br />Tight lines.<br /><br /><br /><br />
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-16909141573679812662013-09-23T04:10:00.001-07:002013-09-23T04:10:58.064-07:00A few perch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I haven't really done much fresh water predator fishing since last year so I was excited to get out and chase a few pike yesterday but sadly they didn't oblige. I managed one small little jack on an IMA Melty Nymph in the first 10 minutes but sadly it went quiet.</div>
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<br />It wasn't until I was messing around with my lure at the edge that I noticed two or three small perch come in to investigate - I stole a small soft plastic from my friends box, cast out and was straight into this little perch. Stunning looking fish. I really wish I had more access to good perch fishing they just look stunning. </div>
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<br /><br />A few casts later resulted in another small fish and then the shoal moved on. </div>
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Anyway it was nice just to be out and the weather wasn't bad either - for once!<br /><br />Tight lines.<br /><br /><br /></div>
<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-75337445030426655872013-09-19T05:17:00.001-07:002013-09-26T06:37:39.337-07:00September Bassing <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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September holds great promise when it comes to Bass fishing. Last season I had some great success, beating my personal best twice in two weeks ..... this season however I was less fortunate with the weather - but we battled on.<br />
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North winds made it less than ideal for fishing the open coast but with some moving around and putting in the hours we managed to track down a few fish.<br />
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No monsters this month but it was great to see that any fish we caught were in prime condition. Plump and they all scrapped really well.<br />
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Hard plugs produced a few fish but as always when the going gets tough we resorted to soft plastics and quickly got some results.<br />
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The 120 mm Fiiish Black Minnow continues to do the business and the Bass simply can not resist.<br />
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<h2>
Meeting friends</h2>
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It is always great to catch up with friends and acquaintances on the coast - it adds to the over all experience and there is nothing better than sharing a coffee with some enthusiastic anglers and talking all things lure fishing.<br />
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It was great this time to meet up with a friend of mine Nick Mackrory on his first trip over to Ireland. Nick runs<b> <a href="http://www.bassgodeeper.net/">Bass Go Deeper</a> </b>the creator of the Plug Belt and Plug Rack featured <b><a href="http://rookiebassangler.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/bass-go-deeper-plug-belt-review.html">here</a> </b>on my blog.</div>
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We sat and gossiped about lures, the season past and what the coming months hold before going our separate ways. Very jealous that he has a week of roaming around and exploring this stunning coastline for the first time - Tight Lines!</div>
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Who knows if I will get the opportunity to come back down this season but all being well I will squeeze in a trip before the year is out.Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-79197737477047843682013-09-03T06:12:00.004-07:002013-09-03T06:12:52.515-07:00Pollack on light tackle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />With howling West winds and stormy seas meant accessing my usual coast marks simply was not possible ...... The Sea Trout decided to switch off and we were looking for some sort of sport to keep us sane.<br />
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We headed off to a small back bay which we have fished many times before and it is stuffed full of small Pollack and there is always a shout at a good sized Sea Trout.<br />
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The gear was pretty simple, a mixture of small, sub 3inch soft plastic lures and light (3-7g) jig heads:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Illex Pin tails</li>
<li>Illex Ishads</li>
<li>IMA Trilobite</li>
<li>Megabass Hazedong</li>
<li>Lunker City Sluggo</li>
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It was great to play about with the various colours and to feel the fish plucking away at the lures 'On the drop' ....... Yes, of course it was not rod bending, adrenaline pumped action but it was insightful.<br />
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Witnessing fish switch colour preference, feeling how they hit the lure depending on the action and watching them chase and stalk it over the shallow weed beds was educational. </div>
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No monsters but a good way to pass a few hours. </div>
Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-53196209095162204922013-08-14T09:26:00.000-07:002013-08-14T09:26:00.448-07:00Jika Rig and crash diving pollack. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had heard about the Jika rig before in an LRF context but something I had never really given much thought or consideration to for my own fishing.<br />
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I was reading a blog belonging to a friend of mine (Lee Goddard) and he was talking about using the Jika rig for heavier soft plastic work and it got me thinking.<br />
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Check out the post here:<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lure-and-light-game.blogspot.co.uk/">http://lure-and-light-game.blogspot.co.uk/</a></h3>
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As usual I was faced with huge Atlantic swells and big angry seas ..... I was fed up sitting in the house so I decided to change tactics, upscale the gear and go target a few Wrasse. </div>
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We arrived at the mark and it was brutal - choppy, big swell and a stiff onshore wind. I knew the deep gully held Wrasse as we used to fish it when I was a kid with a float. </div>
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I used a 20g bomb lead and my chosen purple 4inch soft plastic. I cast out to the other side of the gully, let the lure sink until I touched bottom and let it sit for a few seconds. Thump! I lifted the rod gently and let it drop back down again. Thump! I repeated the process and as the weight hit the bottom the rod slammed over and I was into a nice Wrasse. </div>
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It was a nightmare trying to land it in such rough conditions but we managed to get it in, photograph it and release it - despite getting soaked in the process!</div>
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It was a great chance to try out a new piece of kit - an Illex Element Rider 240 MH V2, 8-45g. Whilst on the heavy side of things, it allowed me to hold up in the rougher water and yet still feel what was happening at the business end. A strong, sensitive rod which will be unleashed when the weather decided to throw me a curve ball. </div>
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<h2>
Carbon copy pollack</h2>
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We eventually got pushed off the rocks with the rough weather and moved back into a quiet, sheltered spot. Not renowned for big fish but it always produces pollack and scaling down the gear provided us with some great sport. It didn't disappoint - we had hits and hook ups on nearly every cast, each fish identical to the last.</div>
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We used a mixture of small soft plastics and 90mm Fiiish Black Minnows. </div>
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A nice way to end the day and boost the confidence levels. </div>
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On the way home we stopped by a mark to see it over low tide and much to our surprise found this sun fish washed up - First time I have ever seen one in person and they are stunning looking creatures, just a shame this one didn't make it. </div>
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Stay tuned. </div>
Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-61411709252530373692013-08-09T06:27:00.002-07:002013-08-09T06:27:51.103-07:00Apia Seiryu Mini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrqYl8g7JZKLAXDUZAYwT-5fjAC9QLP_tBk9xnPiL7zIYBZy1pxSgejzdQv5bJt7cnbhTR9B4Yl6jU9_sOHs3sQqIL-O_agzkXYKmvpmIxve_rakbok73pjGUt8c0jTbGJ6IZAV4NNxCq/s1600/blog+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrqYl8g7JZKLAXDUZAYwT-5fjAC9QLP_tBk9xnPiL7zIYBZy1pxSgejzdQv5bJt7cnbhTR9B4Yl6jU9_sOHs3sQqIL-O_agzkXYKmvpmIxve_rakbok73pjGUt8c0jTbGJ6IZAV4NNxCq/s640/blog+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you have been following my blog you will know that I am a huge fan of small, high tech mini jigs when chasing Sea Trout. I recently got the <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apia Seiryu Mini 6g in Kibinago Bait - looks stunning. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NX_DMW0_cgfRWn1rmGAIrOEQVk7gyCAIMmLhzBJtVXgkddB1E5F_cWLPeZdZfRxpC6pVqbfh8z-dPvxR67s83lJ9xZzY31ka5Oxtc4S51mOP1GIPEY5uFOtJvrbPri5E8w0YWokxrjIN/s1600/blog+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NX_DMW0_cgfRWn1rmGAIrOEQVk7gyCAIMmLhzBJtVXgkddB1E5F_cWLPeZdZfRxpC6pVqbfh8z-dPvxR67s83lJ9xZzY31ka5Oxtc4S51mOP1GIPEY5uFOtJvrbPri5E8w0YWokxrjIN/s640/blog+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I took it out at the weekend for a try and it didn't </span></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">disappoint!</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">First of all I swapped out the treble for a Decoy single hook, allowing for a cleaner release.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">Jigging and OTD</span></h2>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">This technique is similar to vertical jigging from a boat except we are using it from the shore. Casting up current, letting the lure sink to bottom. Once it hits bottom start a rapid retrieve, jerking the rod upwards creating an erratic action. Allow the lure to fall or drop in the water and repeat. This really wakes up the Sea Trout and will sort out the ones who want to feed and those who simply are just messing around. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">All my hits and hooks up come as the lure is falling back down through the water column. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">We hit a number of fish using this technique. </span></span><br />
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The assist hook enables you to detect head bites as well.<br />
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Even when the Sea Trout were stuffed full of food they still couldn't resist the Apia jig!</div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">This trout was packed full of food, a great sign to see such rich feeding in our waters.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXXj2lehO4igD5oI-8vfj4xx-9WH1Dc5KjnScX7sGmazpSL2P2MdF1QQWbQTV8XoG4KwDOANio9-vHVXD9ta72PaBlwdjhp2q8-V3rEKPCSqdIzQomykOvh17ITYwCZEGcGr3sDa9tbt_/s1600/blog+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXXj2lehO4igD5oI-8vfj4xx-9WH1Dc5KjnScX7sGmazpSL2P2MdF1QQWbQTV8XoG4KwDOANio9-vHVXD9ta72PaBlwdjhp2q8-V3rEKPCSqdIzQomykOvh17ITYwCZEGcGr3sDa9tbt_/s640/blog+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">A nice dinner for a hungry Sea Trout plus a bonus for us to analyze what the fish are feeding on. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">Not great conditions but we fished a short session and hit a few more well stuffed Trout. </span><br />
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A quick grip and grin before being released.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQrfNfLbxu9PM6-IdiJ5xUQPPhyphenhyphenlvZnFhw8dY1oizVK_aqi9u0TTo0oecJZu6MVZkQfHFED6b6Y5D6x9Yid_WMajBD-acLIn-3_ypjkishBvrVjdxKORZy7FZAxuzSc01R_MzjoL47WEY/s1600/blog+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQrfNfLbxu9PM6-IdiJ5xUQPPhyphenhyphenlvZnFhw8dY1oizVK_aqi9u0TTo0oecJZu6MVZkQfHFED6b6Y5D6x9Yid_WMajBD-acLIn-3_ypjkishBvrVjdxKORZy7FZAxuzSc01R_MzjoL47WEY/s640/blog+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br />Set off to fight another day.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIcUPD8KnorJaen_Lzm3NHX_nqUS7dJgyHccjzuBZr1cUnWwMr3eQE90qziEHhULTmD2IrlTH_FDADj1wjR2D_hjuEzoVbxN3xkrhJGj-_V1JemFZsP_8z_IkQmf84a7itZrdyYWoZ7Fi/s1600/blog+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIcUPD8KnorJaen_Lzm3NHX_nqUS7dJgyHccjzuBZr1cUnWwMr3eQE90qziEHhULTmD2IrlTH_FDADj1wjR2D_hjuEzoVbxN3xkrhJGj-_V1JemFZsP_8z_IkQmf84a7itZrdyYWoZ7Fi/s640/blog+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />The perfect tool for stalking Sea Trout? It sure is doing the job at the minute!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-8325571012039151792013-07-28T06:01:00.001-07:002013-07-28T06:01:02.481-07:00Irish Angler - August Edition (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Keep your eyes out on shelves for August edition of Irish Angler.</div>
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Or check out online at - <a href="http://www.irishangler.ie/">http://www.irishangler.ie/</a></div>
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<br />Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-52391784133402627382013-07-28T05:55:00.000-07:002013-07-28T05:55:00.955-07:00Wrassing with dinosaurs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gAFZ6vnwrtnAgmDcGaSsW1acMScedimCHdvIASi4oBHmE6CE7NA9XTWhkpzwr-5rMMsp0U3m9LQZQTFSFR2DjMMyHI_UwzmI-CsVQrzntt4vPEgbhBcY17ko_blxkoZgGxvkrQBkuNDr/s1600/IMG_2278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gAFZ6vnwrtnAgmDcGaSsW1acMScedimCHdvIASi4oBHmE6CE7NA9XTWhkpzwr-5rMMsp0U3m9LQZQTFSFR2DjMMyHI_UwzmI-CsVQrzntt4vPEgbhBcY17ko_blxkoZgGxvkrQBkuNDr/s640/IMG_2278.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Atlantic swells finally gave way and allowed me out on the first Wrassing session of the year. Clear skies, roasting temperatures and blue seas - it looked stunning but the fish were a tad shy to say the least.</div>
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I have come across this little lure made by Illex - it is called the Ammonite Shad ..... a small paddle tail with quite a thick profile, it looked deadly in the watermelon/bluegill colour ..... it was simply rude not to try it out. </div>
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Size doesn't matter - or so they say.</h2>
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After what was a very slow start and not much activity I had about three follows from the same little Wrasse. I was quite convinced it wouldn't take, so the next time it followed my lure up I paused, twitched it, then whack - it hit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CxumvKt2IOTUzsHW3i98cGcT2DvS57gqecD3XZIsbJDj5kmFnaZbyrUbLYwKtQhNXPz1HpiJKn54gf_LgWlqTVwNR25WT7pC16cwKxluT696BQFMTLM7HG7s7edgtapl0oUklchkC6jO/s1600/IMG_2276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CxumvKt2IOTUzsHW3i98cGcT2DvS57gqecD3XZIsbJDj5kmFnaZbyrUbLYwKtQhNXPz1HpiJKn54gf_LgWlqTVwNR25WT7pC16cwKxluT696BQFMTLM7HG7s7edgtapl0oUklchkC6jO/s640/IMG_2276.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I admired its efforts to get back into the kelp but a quick photo and it was slipped back in. </div>
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I have been in love with the Illex S 210 M Stalking Special ever since I got my hands on it ..... light weight yet powerful and great tip sensitivity ..... still early days for a proper review but loving it more and more by the day.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1QHsJZm-nf8rBd2_cRzGTAQz5FW4O_R14kJtw3I9xNlWVf9_GggkOzFDMAmZPWWg3hCee5pXw7B5gsHXtPpTUSUB9JCjiPNUbXrUROqLBxImxyBviHe4-U3B_n1RAld4U1gAfZZeRgtD/s1600/IMG_2294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1QHsJZm-nf8rBd2_cRzGTAQz5FW4O_R14kJtw3I9xNlWVf9_GggkOzFDMAmZPWWg3hCee5pXw7B5gsHXtPpTUSUB9JCjiPNUbXrUROqLBxImxyBviHe4-U3B_n1RAld4U1gAfZZeRgtD/s640/IMG_2294.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lurking in the shallows</h2>
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Every time I go after Wrasse the places we pull them out from never cease to amaze me. Forget the old beliefs of deep water - we hit this fish in about 4 feet!</div>
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Again the Ammonite Shad proved irresistible to this Wrasse - fished on a Texas rig with a 3.5g head, glass bead and a size 2 wide-gape hook. </div>
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The lure was cast out onto an overhanging shelf - no sooner had it hit the water when the Wrasse came up from under the ledge and started to smash into it. Three or four smacks later and it was hooked.</div>
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So many places and not enough time</h2>
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We have often looked down at this place but never taken the plunge to go and give a good try. I am 100% positive that no one has ever wet a line here and it looks unbelievably fishy - maybe we will get there before the summer is out.<br />
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Tight lines.Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926242143248285482.post-73734521448296462922013-07-28T05:52:00.000-07:002013-07-28T05:52:11.359-07:00July - Sea Trout Adventures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After arriving back from what was a fantastic trip to the Irish Bass festival, we set off for a week of sun, sea and Sea Trout. Little did we know we would be facing 30 degree heat, blue skies and crystal clear waters stuffed with sand eels - a Sea Trout fisherman's paradise.<br />
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Of course the usual toys all came out to play - IMA, Megabass, Tackle House jigs etc along with the old faithful Abu krills and Nordic herrings but we had some new toys to play with as well.<br />
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Black Minnow Magic </h2>
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We all know that Fiiish make the deadly Black Minnow and it has been working a treat among Bass and Pollack anglers all over the U.K. and Ireland but after seeing the 70 mm versions I knew it was worth exploring for Sea Trout. </div>
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Even looking at it you know it is going to be something special. </div>
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We started off on the usual lures to see if the fish were biting - after a few I switched over to the 70 mm Black Minnow, casting up current and with a straight retrieve it wasn't long before the knocks, bites and bumps started. </div>
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It was crazy -I was getting more takes and follows than my dad who was only a few feet away on metals - Why? It must have been down to the superior or at least more realistic look of the lure. Perhaps that little tail going loopy in the current brought them in to investigate?</div>
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Hooking up was a different story!<br />
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Sea Trout are notorious for tail biting and nipping without committing ..... after many painful casts and follows I finally hooked one.</div>
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I have to say I saw more action with this lure than I ever have. Even when I switched back to metals I had nowhere near as much interest and yet back to the Black Minnow and they went nuts again. </div>
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Is this the start of a new direction for my lure fishing for Sea Trout - I don't know but it sure makes me take a step back and think!</div>
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Stay tuned for more experimentation and adventures as the summer progresses. </div>
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<h2>
The Punch Line</h2>
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My other new toy to play with was the Apia Punch Line Slim 90, a sinking lure which I found worked best on a straight, steady retrieve. </div>
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Apia is a company which I wasn't hugely familiar with but after talking to a few friends I am starting to see a brand which will take the market by storm once people start to use them. </div>
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We returned another day and started out with this new lure - first off it casts like a bullet and you can cover a lot of water which is good for seeking out feeding Trout. After a few follows we cast out again, up current and started the retrieve - Whack! The fish was straight on, no messing. The line was screaming off the reel and finally we brought the fish into the shallows. A plump 3lb Sea Trout!</div>
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Want to get you hands on one, check out Bass Lures and their great range of Apia products.</div>
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<a href="http://www.basslures.co.uk/manufacturer/apia">http://www.basslures.co.uk/manufacturer/apia</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWq8MnoZvibRqnxxFyYElqd6lH7BQ9M7m53R6d1VQYCe9OvsOda4DFJPcJPVow955Occy1_hEi0f2dG7pnZCi8gNYQQnkb3WBPu7-1LrNK91Rg7wgT_ayYn2bB7S46ptzCz1gNv4WwZCU6/s1600/basslures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWq8MnoZvibRqnxxFyYElqd6lH7BQ9M7m53R6d1VQYCe9OvsOda4DFJPcJPVow955Occy1_hEi0f2dG7pnZCi8gNYQQnkb3WBPu7-1LrNK91Rg7wgT_ayYn2bB7S46ptzCz1gNv4WwZCU6/s1600/basslures.jpg" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.basslures.co.uk/manufacturer/apia">http://www.basslures.co.uk/manufacturer/apia</a></h3>
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We fished on and had a few more fish - a deadly lure and one which I know will be in my box from now on. Can not wait to get back out and try it in a few other spots.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67n261ZahhPoPM_b8HadvBMS3ezZB4qkDDnE-qq7hHtZHaGzabPRg3aKXJZUA2suqQHAckeeB8ux8OLeqcU4hRquaFFGxvXgx5jklXLOcCSyVtqd7IVEAp0vEtLiz5iMKYUUEs5lSnv-4/s1600/P7180333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67n261ZahhPoPM_b8HadvBMS3ezZB4qkDDnE-qq7hHtZHaGzabPRg3aKXJZUA2suqQHAckeeB8ux8OLeqcU4hRquaFFGxvXgx5jklXLOcCSyVtqd7IVEAp0vEtLiz5iMKYUUEs5lSnv-4/s640/P7180333.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A nice way to end a few days of great sport ....a plump little Sea Trout caught on the open coast.</div>
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Stay tuned.</div>
Steven Neelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04690484804748405746noreply@blogger.com0