10 tips on how to make this your best fishing year ever

You can feel it in the air—a hint of warmth, the first whispers of spring. And for millions of anglers like you, that means only one thing: fishing season is here!

As winter fades and the water starts warming up, now is the perfect time to get prepared. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, these 10 expert tips from the teams at Baitlicious and Buccaneer Bait Co.—two of the most trusted names in fishing lures—will help you hit the water with confidence and start reeling in more fish!

1. Declutter Your Tackle Box

A cluttered tackle box slows you down and makes it harder to find the right lure when it counts. Take a little time on a rainy day to sort through your gear. Get rid of anything that’s broken or ineffective, and organize your go-to lures so you can spend more time fishing, not fumbling.

2. Refresh Your Fishing Line

Your fishing line is your direct connection to the catch of a lifetime—don’t let old, brittle line cost you a fish. Swap out last season’s line for fresh spools, and inspect it for frays or nicks. If you notice damage, check your rod guides—a cracked guide can weaken your line and ruin your chances when it matters most.

3. Inspect Your Rod Guides

A damaged guide can turn a strong fishing line into a liability. Run a cotton swab around the inside of each guide—if it snags, you’ve got a crack that could cause your line to snap. Replace any damaged guides before your first big trip.

4. Sharpen or Replace Your Hooks

The sharpness of your hook directly impacts your success. A dull hook means missed bites—a sharp one ensures solid hooksets. Take the time to sharpen or replace hooks on your favorite lures. Also, make sure you’re using the right hook for your target species—fish have different mouth structures, and using the right hook increases your hookup rate.

5. Watch & Learn from the Pros

Spending time on the water is key, but you can sharpen your skills year-round by watching expert fishing videos. The Great Outdoors Shops YouTube Channel features techniques for freshwater, saltwater, and ice fishing, helping you stay ahead of the game no matter where or when you fish.

6. Stock Up on Your Confidence Bait

Every angler has that one lure—the one that seems to work when nothing else does. If you’ve found your confidence bait, stock up so you’re never without it. If you’re still looking for that go-to lure, check out the proven selections from Baitlicious and Buccaneer Bait Co.—both brands have helped anglers land record-breaking catches for decades.

7. Experiment with New Lures

Would a golfer play all 18 holes with just a putter? No way. The same applies to fishing—different lures work best under different conditions. This season, challenge yourself by trying a lure you’ve never used before. For example, an ice fishing jig from Buccaneer Bait Co. can be a deadly weapon for deep-water bass and walleye—even in open water. It sounds unconventional, but trust us—it works!

8. Explore New Fishing Spots

It’s easy to fall into the habit of fishing the same lake, river, or favorite hole, but that can limit your experience. Try a new body of water this season or explore different fishing methods, like kayak fishing. You may even find yourself targeting a new species, such as walleye, muskies, or redfish, and picking up valuable skills along the way.

9. Take Someone New Fishing

Few things are more rewarding than introducing someone to the thrill of fishing. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a young angler, sharing your passion creates lasting memories and keeps the tradition alive. Teach them how to cast, choose lures, or target a new species—it might just be your most rewarding catch of the season.

10. Get Ready for an Incredible Season

Fishing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. The more prepared you are, the more time you’ll spend catching fish instead of fixing gear. With these expert tips, plus a tackle box stocked with trusted lures from Baitlicious and Buccaneer Bait Co., you’ll be ready to make this your best fishing season yet.

Tight lines and happy fishing!