Eventually all bass boat bilge areas get messy. Between rain water, lake water, tracked dirt, oil and other debris, it can look like a mud puddle down there. Add in pieces of plastic worms and various screws and pieces of terminal tackle that somehow work their way to the back of the boat, and you have various problems beyond just cosmetic issues.

If you own a bass boat and you’ve ever stopped at a gas station, you’ve gotten “the questions.” It’s important to be a good representative of the fishing community. People who make these inquiries mean well, they just don’t know any better, so if you can’t avoid being snarky, get the t-shirt.

If you become obsessed with wolf fish, you might want to get a hat to commemorate your trip to the Amazon. They’re tough to come by outside of South America — here are some of the options you’ll find there.

One sign of someone who spends a lot of time (too much?) on the water is a raccoon eyed sunglasses tan. Wear your sunblock and reapply it consistently, but don’t sleep on the guys who look like trash pandas.

As the end of the year approaches, we continue to gather links and info that will amuse, educate and inform your future fishing travels — everything from explosive diapers to giant prehistoric fish.

The “Life is Good” brand reminds us to be present and thankful for all that we have. “Fish More, Worry Less” is a pretty good mantra to keep things in perspective.

There’s substantial overlap between the Grateful Dead and fishing — and in particular fly fishing for trout. Numerous artists and clothing manufacturers have mixed the two. Here are some of our favorite options.

Lately I’ve primarily used the San Diego Jam knot to directly attach most of my lures. It’s quick and simple to tie, doesn’t require any special tools or a third hand, and seems to hold exceptionally well. Maybe the reason I’m so enthusiastic about it is because it was developed by the long-range tuna anglers out of San Diego.

Whether you work harder, work less and choose not to work at all, make sure it puts you in position to FISH MORE. The folks at STLHD embody the obsession that we’re talking about.

Setting rates when you’re writing for fishing magazines, websites or tackle companies is an inexact science. Each negotiation — if there is one — involves different considerations. Here’s the process I use to maximize income and minimize anguish.

“Go Fast, Don’t Die” is a brand that fits our message — take risks, go fast, live life to the fullest because you only get once bite at the apple.

I’ve been riding in bass boats for over 20 years, but despite occasional short spurts behind the wheel, I’ve generally avoided learning to drive one. Pete is a critical teacher. Finally, I decided that it was time to learn, so I asked the much more patient Chad Morgenthaler to be my instructor. Here’s the rundown – it’s not so hard.

Free Fly Apparel makes a unique camo pattern that celebrates their South Carolina Lowcountry heritage. Dig deep to find your favorite barrier island and buy one of the shirts to feel the softness of bamboo.

If you’re looking for some true pro hawging gear, check out the apparel from J Dock Fishing Company in Seward, Alaska. They’ve got ya covered, whether you prefer bass or ‘buts.

If you live at the intersection of Keith Richards and Lefty Kreh, we have a hat for you. If Spicoli is more your speed, there’s a shirt to go with it.

While fishing travel is our primary focus, I’m also a big fan of the art of motorboating. I’ve had seven boats but only one wife – luckily she likes motorboating, too. Unfortunately, it’s frowned upon in public — if you still want to show how much you love it, check out some of the following gear.

Recently I was introduced to a braid-to-leader knot that’s remarkably easy to tie under any conditions. It was popularized by Lefty Kreh, and while he’s not as well known outside of the fly fishing community that doesn’t mean conventional tackle bass anglers and saltwater anglers can’t employ it.

I don’t know where they came up with “Pimp Shrimp” or precisely what it means, but I guarantee you that if you wear this around town you’ll get some funny looks and more than a few inquiries.

Can Sammy Hagar double haul? Is David Lee Roth a deep cranking fiend? We don’t know, but apparently Eddie Van Halen could shred the silver king.

I thought we were the only angling family crazy enough to have an Australian Shepherd (we didn’t learn the first time), but there are several of them out on the bass tours. Here are their thoughts on the breed.