Hookset Weekly by Bearded Dad Fishing

What's up guys!

Welcome back to The Hookset Weekly!

Late February is here, and I can feel it - that subtle shift that tells you winter's grip is starting to loosen. Water temps are still cold, but there's something in the air that says spring is coming. For us northern folk, the anticipation is building. For you southern anglers, well, we’re mostly just jealous.

Let's dive in!

I just wrapped up my first Bassmaster event, and let me tell you—it was a grind. Over 240 anglers signed up, and the general consensus was that pre-fishing and practice were brutally tough. A cold front swept through the week before, and the fish just weren’t biting. It was all about finding small areas holding fish and making the most of every opportunity.

Day One:
I managed to get on three bass early, but the bite died off fast. Spent the rest of the day battling chain pickerel and searching for more bass that just wouldn’t cooperate. Ended the day in 80th place out of 242—not where I wanted to be, but not out of it either.

Day Two:
Everything that worked on day one completely fell apart. The power fishing bite I’d found just disappeared. I had to pivot, so I switched to finesse presentations late in the day. That adjustment paid off—landed all three of my fish after noon and finished the event in 69th place overall.

Takeaways:

I learned a ton, and I’m already looking forward to the next one. If you’re thinking about fishing your first big tournament, just know: it’s humbling, it’s tough, and it’s absolutely worth it.

Perfect timing while you're stuck inside - these simple upgrades will transform your kayak for the upcoming season. No need to wait until spring hits and you're scrambling to get on the water. Knock these out now and be ready to roll when the weather breaks.

Difficulty: ⭐ (Basic tools needed)
Time: 1 hour
Cost: $30-$50

What you need:

Why it's worth it: Gear tracks are like adding a utility belt to your kayak. Mount rod holders, cup holders, fish finders - anything with a track mount. One mod that enables dozens of future upgrades.

Pro tip: Install tracks on both sides of your kayak for maximum versatility.

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Some rigging knowledge needed)
Time: 2-3 hours
Cost: $60

What you need:

Why it's worth it: Stop fighting wind and current. A proper anchor system lets you position your kayak exactly where you want it and keeps you there. Essential for vertical fishing and working structure.

Pro tip: Install the trolley so you can anchor from bow or stern depending on wind direction.

Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐ (Research needed prior)
Time: 3-4 hours
Cost: $350-$450

What you need:

Why it's worth it: Even a basic fish finder changes your fishing game. This mount keeps it secure, visible, and easily removable for transport.

Pro tip: Position the mount where you can see the screen while paddling and fishing.

Difficulty: ⭐ (Super easy)
Time: 10 minutes
Cost: $35

What you need:

Why it's worth it: Nothing worse than tangled rods or losing one overboard. Proper rod storage keeps multiple setups ready and secure. If you don’t use a crate, this is a great way to stay organized.

Pro tip: Angle them so you can grab rods quickly without standing up.

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Some DIY required)
Time: 2-3 hours
Cost: $40-$60

What you need:

Watch my detailed walkthrough on building a DIY crate: https://youtu.be/xLqq-V8i4LY

Why it's worth it: A good crate system organizes all your gear, gives you rod storage, and creates a stable platform for your tackle boxes.

✅ Weather's still cold - Perfect indoor project time
✅ No pressure - Take your time and do it right
✅ Ready for spring - First warm day, you're ready to roll

The best part? Most of these mods take basic tools you probably already have. Start with one this weekend and add more as you go. By spring, you'll have a completely dialed-in fishing machine.

Sometimes the biggest catches come with the biggest lessons. Damian Thao from California just landed what might be the fish of a lifetime - and handled the aftermath with more class than most anglers ever show.

Damian hit his local lake and within 30 minutes had already landed a 7.5 and 10-pounder on a Workingclasszero Tyrant 10". But when he switched to a 10" Megabass Magdraft in Albino Pearl, everything changed. Three casts at a tree, popped it free from the limbs, and that's when the big girl ate.

The fight lasted 30 seconds. When he got her to the boat, he thought she was just another 10-12 pounder. Until he held her up.

Here's where Damian shows his character. Trying to do the right thing, he transported the live fish to get an official certified weight. Problem is, that's illegal - you can't transport live fish, even for weighing.

When a friend informed him the next day, Damian could have kept quiet. Instead, he owned up to the mistake publicly and is going with his lowest weight - 17.46 lbs - for his personal best.

Anyone can catch a big fish. Not everyone will do the right thing when it matters. Damian’s story is a lesson in humility, sportsmanship, and respect for the resource.

Most of us don't know every fishing regulation by heart. The key lessons:

Damian landed a fish most of us only dream about and handled it with more class than we see from tournament pros sometimes. That 17.46-pound bass is a monster, but his character is even bigger.

Got a big fish story or ethical dilemma? We want to hear about it - the good, the bad, and the learning moments.

If you missed my latest video, you're missing out on some serious money-saving insights that could help you make the right call on your next kayak purchase.

"Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1,500 (2026 Buyer's Guide)"
Looking for a budget-friendly fishing kayak that actually performs? I break down the best options under $1,500 for 2026, focusing on what really matters when choosing a budget kayak - not just what looks good online.

What You'll Learn:

Why This Matters: Whether you're upgrading from an entry-level kayak or buying your first fishing kayak, this video will help you narrow it down fast. Perfect timing as we head into spring planning season.

▶️ [Watch Here: Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1,500]

Featured Kayaks Include: Perception Pescador Pro 10.0, Old Town Sportsman 106, Feelfree Moken 10 PDL, Native Ultimate FX12, Crescent Litetackle 2, and Jackson YuPIK - all with direct links to check current pricing.

Know a fishing buddy who needs these tips? Forward this to them so they stop asking you the same questions on the water.

Thanks for reading The Hookset Weekly by Bearded Dad Fishing! Got questions or suggestions for future issues? Hit reply - I read every email.

That’s it for this week. Stay warm, fish slow, and enjoy the grind.

Peace and God bless!

- Jay