Probass Networks: Log In to Cash In

Thanks to the marvels of technology, we can “log on” to the internet to find a wealth of information… weather condition, former winning patterns at your favorite fishing hole, even informative articles. But think of the information you are missing (and possibly forgetting) by not “logging in.”

Keeping track of pertinent information from past fishing trips has long been a staple of successful anglers world-wide. Rick Clunn, one of bass fishing’s greats, often comments on how he keeps records of his tournament and practice sessions for future use. While this information is invaluable for future reference to the “cast for cash” anglers, it can also be a great asset to the weekend warrior.

A fishing log can be as simple or complex as you need it to be… Collect the information you feel is beneficial to you – then do it. A basic log could record date, time of day, fish specie and lure type. I’ve seen some logs which record structure and vegetation type, wind speed, water clarity, wind speed and direction, and even the moon phase and the number of days since the specific “quarter.” While that is all great information, if it becomes too much trouble to record the information, the less likely it will be done.

If you don’t want to take time to write it down, take a tip from bass pro Shaw Grigsby, who uses a micro cassette recorder to document his catch during practice. He says he plays the tape back that evening before he goes to sleep – allowing him to relive the day and place the information into memory. While this is a great idea, you can also write down the information on your recorder into a notebook or computer program for future reference.

There are a number of computer programs out there, which are basically database packages set up for fishing. Just type “fishing logs” into your computer’s search engine, and take a look at the variety of logs that are already available (you can even find them for PDA’s). If you’re computer-literate, you could probably design your own fishing log program using a database program.

So, the next time you’re on the water, take note… literally, and begin keeping a fishing log. Soon, you’ll be able to “cash in” with your wealth of fishing information.

-Jeff Morton-