There’s a saying about the bigger the boys, the bigger the toys, but when it comes to fishing on the Alabama Bass Trail, we’re not talking about toys. We’re talking about tools! And there are some amazing tools out there. While some folks still appreciate the simplicity of hitting the water with a couple favorite rods, a box of lures and a trusty dip net, most are finding the addition of a few tech gadgets can add to the fun and success of most any fishing trip.

Fishermen today can take advantage of tools beyond fast boats and specialty baits. Here are the top tech advantages on the water today.

Trolling motors
Bow mounted, foot-controlled electric motors are making spot fishing a breeze – even in a stiff breeze! Electronic or cable-steered, GPS-enabled motors take control of the motor and hold the boat on one spot by tapping the “spot-lock” button on the foot pedal. One reviewer describes it like having an anchor without the rope. The motors can also be programmed to go to a waypoint or follow a depth contour.

Electronics
Sonar units have seen amazing changes in the past three years. The good news is “premium” features are now more readily available. Two of the most valuable of those features, “down imaging” and “side imaging” are becoming available in mid-priced units. With this technology, anglers can see much more detailed pictures of the bottom either directly under the boat or off to the sides.

Hyrdrowave technology, like sonar, is another new tool helping anglers find and attract fish. The device, an underwater speaker system, uses audio and vibration technology to simulate various fish sounds, from bass eating to bait fish schooling. Units vary and include a slate of sound settings available.

All this technology may sound serious but the bottom line is, it all adds to the fun and adventure you’ll find on the Alabama Bass Trail. Check out the trail map and choose a starting point for your next adventure. Put those tools to work!