Hi Folks!
It’s been far too long since I’ve even thought about freshwater fishing – even with the mild winter that we’ve been having.
So with that said, Elaine Hirsch has offered another post for your reading pleasure (looks like I may have to hire Elaine as my assistant blogger!) 😉
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Fishing and the Alabama Rig
There is a new lure making a big splash in the bass fishing world. It’s called the Alabama Rig and its based on an idea that is common to saltwater fishermen but new to those fishing in fresh waters. It is legal in many states and fishing tournaments.
The lure is loosely based on the umbrella lures used by saltwater fishermen. The lure harness looks like an umbrella skeleton. Several swim baits are attached to the arms and center wire of the lure which is designed so that the baits can be changed as necessary. Weighing in at about a half an ounce before baits are loaded means that casting this lure out repeatedly can become a tiring task.
According to the Charlotte Observer, the rig is allowed at most tournaments. However, some states already have laws on the books regulating multi-hook lures. Not all anglers are happy about this new lure, saying that it isn’t a fair way to fish. Not only that, but there is also the issue regarding the bass population, a topic which masters degree programs in fisheries concentrate on. Bass seem very attracted to this new lure, whether it is because it looks like a small school of bait fish or simply because it is designed differently. With the potential to catch five fish per unit, anglers have a better chance to get ‘the big one’.This was proven by Paul Elias in October 2011. He won $100,000 in a FLW tournament in Alabama using the Alabama Rig. His 20-bass catch weighed in at 102 pounds, all caught on the same lure.
Tennessee’s Wildlife Resources Agency issued a statement about using this type of rig in their state. According to the TWRA, “Umbrella rigs can be legally fished in Tennessee waters as long as they comply with the regulation”. Regulations depend on the size of the baits, the number of baits and the size and number of the hooks.
Just as with other innovations, only time will tell what impact the Alabama Rig will truly have on the fishing world. Some fishermen will see it as the latest and greatest addition to their fishing arsenal. Others will find it being just another deviation from the true sport of fishing.
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So what do you all think about this? Should it be legal or not? I’m interested in hearing your thoughts.
Catch you later!