In episode 149 of the Inside Bassmaster Podcast, hosts Ronnie Moore and Kyle Jessie sit down with Elite Series pro and West Coast angler Clifford Pirch. Pirch shares his expertise on fishing in the month of October, particularly focusing on the Arizona lakes he frequents. Known for his finesse fishing skills and hunting prowess, Pirch discusses topics such as the impact of Forward Facing Sonar on tournament success, fishing conditions in the fall, different lakes in Arizona, and key techniques for fall fishing. As the conversation unfolds, Pirch also delves into the debate over finesse or big baits being more effective on the West Coast. Throughout the episode, Pirch’s enthusiasm for both fishing and hunting shines through, as he expresses his love for the Western landscape and his desire for more fishing events in the West.

On Episode 149 of the Inside Bassmaster Podcast, hosts Ronnie Moore and Kyle Jessie bring Elite Series pro and West Coast angler Clifford Pirch onto the show to discuss big game fishing and hunting out West. In this captivating episode, Pirch shares insights into fishing in the month of October, highlighting the different techniques and baits he uses on the Arizona lakes he frequents. As a finesse fisherman, Pirch gives valuable tips on fall fishing conditions, different lakes in Arizona, and the impact of Forward Facing Sonar technology. Beyond fishing, Pirch also delves into his love for hunting during the off-season, particularly for elk and deer, as well as his passion for the Western landscape. Tune in to this engaging conversation to learn from one of the best in the industry.

Clifford Pirch: The Finesse Fisherman and Skilled Hunter

Clifford Pirch’s profile

Clifford Pirch is a highly skilled angler and hunter, known for his finesse fishing techniques and expertise in the field. As an Elite Series pro and West Coast angler, Pirch has gained a reputation for his impressive fishing abilities and his prowess in hunting. His knowledge and experience make him a sought-after guest on various podcasts and shows where he provides insights and strategies for successful fishing and hunting.

October Fishing in Arizona Lakes

Overview of Arizona lakes

Arizona is home to a variety of picturesque lakes that offer excellent fishing opportunities. These lakes are known for their diverse bass species and stunning natural surroundings. Anglers from all over flock to these lakes, especially in the month of October, to enjoy the abundant fish population and favorable fishing conditions.

Fishing in the month of October

October is an exciting time for fishing in Arizona lakes. The weather is mild, and the fall season brings changes in fish behavior and feeding patterns. This makes it an ideal time for anglers to test their skills and try out different techniques to attract bass. Whether it’s finesse fishing or using big baits, October offers plenty of opportunities for anglers to have a successful day on the water.

Clifford Pirch’s frequented Arizona lakes

Being a West Coast angler, Clifford Pirch has spent a significant amount of time fishing in various lakes across Arizona. Some of his frequent spots include Roosevelt Lake, Clear Lake, and Lake Mead. These lakes are known for their abundant bass population and scenic beauty. Pirch’s familiarity with these lakes has allowed him to develop effective strategies and techniques for successful fishing trips.

The Impact of Forward Facing Sonar

Introduction to Forward Facing Sonar

Forward Facing Sonar is a technological innovation that has revolutionized the fishing industry. It provides anglers with real-time imaging of what is happening beneath their boats, allowing them to locate fish, assess structure, and make more informed decisions. This tool has greatly enhanced anglers’ ability to locate and catch fish, thereby improving tournament success rates.

Its effect on tournament success and fishing strategies

Forward Facing Sonar has had a significant impact on tournament success rates. Anglers who utilize this technology have an advantage in locating fish and identifying potential hotspots. This allows them to develop effective strategies and make better decisions on where to fish. The ability to see fish in real-time gives anglers a competitive edge, particularly in high-stakes tournaments where every catch counts.

Clifford Pirch’s take on it

Clifford Pirch acknowledges the benefits of Forward Facing Sonar but emphasizes the importance of using it in conjunction with traditional fishing skills. While this technology provides valuable information, Pirch believes that relying solely on it can hinder an angler’s ability to adapt to changing conditions. He emphasizes the need to balance technology with experience and intuition, stating that a successful angler is one who understands the nuances of fishing and adapts their strategies accordingly.

Fall Fishing Conditions and Techniques

Fishing conditions during fall

Fall brings a change in fishing conditions, as fish transition to different areas and alter their feeding patterns. Water temperatures begin to cool down, causing fish to become more active and search for food. Understanding these conditions is crucial for anglers to adapt their techniques and increase their chances of success.

Key techniques for fall fishing

During the fall season, certain techniques are particularly effective in attracting bass. Topwater lures and crankbaits mimic the movements of baitfish, enticing bass to strike. Spinnerbaits and swimbaits are also effective in imitating the prey bass are targeting during this time. Additionally, finesse techniques such as drop shot fishing and using soft plastics can prove fruitful in enticing bites from bass.

Pirch’s strategies and insights

Clifford Pirch has honed his fall fishing strategies over the years, relying on a combination of finesse techniques and selecting the right baits for the conditions. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing circumstances and being willing to experiment with different techniques. Pirch believes that versatility is key in fall fishing, as conditions can vary greatly from lake to lake and day to day.

Finesse vs Big Baits in the West Coast

Debate over the effectiveness of finesse and big baits

The fishing community has long debated the effectiveness of finesse fishing versus using big baits. Finesse fishing involves using smaller, more subtle baits and techniques, while big bait fishing relies on larger, more aggressive lures. Anglers have their preferences based on their experiences and targeted species.

West Coast’s preference

In the West Coast, finesse fishing has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in targeting stubborn bass. The clear waters and finicky nature of West Coast bass often necessitate finesse techniques to entice bites. Clifford Pirch, being a finesse fisherman himself, appreciates the effectiveness of finesse techniques in these challenging waters.

Pirch’s opinion on the matter

While Clifford Pirch acknowledges the effectiveness of both finesse and big baits, he believes that finesse fishing has its place, particularly in the West Coast. Pirch emphasizes the importance of adapting to the conditions and using finesse techniques when necessary. He believes that finesse fishing allows anglers to target more finicky fish and can often lead to better catch rates in challenging environments.

Off-Season Activities: Fishing and Hunting

Clifford Pirch’s fishing activities during the off-season

During the off-season, Clifford Pirch remains engaged in fishing-related activities. He uses this time to reflect on his past performances, evaluate his strategies, and fine-tune his skills. Additionally, Pirch utilizes the off-season to engage in promotional events, workshops, and seminars, sharing his knowledge and passion for fishing with others.

Hunting during the off-season

Being a skilled hunter as well, Clifford Pirch takes advantage of the off-season to pursue his other passion. He engages in hunting activities, particularly for elk and deer. Pirch enjoys the natural beauty of the Western landscape and the thrill of hunting, finding solace and adventure amidst its vast wilderness.

Pirch’s experience at Roosevelt Lake

Roosevelt Lake, one of Arizona’s premier fishing destinations, is where Clifford Pirch often spends his off-season. This picturesque lake provides the perfect backdrop for Pirch’s fishing and hunting activities. The abundant bass population and stunning natural surroundings make Roosevelt Lake a favorite spot for Pirch to enjoy his off-season pursuits.

Choosing the Right Baits and Techniques

Insights into the different baits and techniques

Choosing the right baits and techniques is crucial for anglers to maximize their chances of success. Factors such as water clarity, fishing conditions, and target species play a significant role in determining the most effective baits and techniques to use.

Importance of using bright-colored worms in open water

Clifford Pirch stresses the effectiveness of using bright-colored worms in open water conditions. Bright colors such as red and pink attract attention and increase the chances of a bite, especially in heavily fished areas. Pirch’s own line of Cliffhanger worms includes various bright colors designed to entice bass in different conditions.

Effectiveness of drop shot fishing

Drop shot fishing is a finesse technique that Clifford Pirch finds highly effective, especially during the fall season. This technique involves suspending a bait above the bottom using a special rig. The subtle movements and presentation of the bait often entice bass to strike, making drop shot fishing a go-to technique for Pirch in various fishing scenarios.

Diversity of Bass Species in Arizona Lakes

Different bass species found in Arizona

Arizona’s lakes are home to a diverse range of bass species, including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Each species has its unique characteristics and behavior, requiring anglers to adapt their strategies accordingly. Understanding the habits and preferences of these bass species is essential for successful fishing in Arizona.

Locations of these species in different lakes

Different bass species can be found in various lakes throughout Arizona. Largemouth bass tend to inhabit areas with more cover, such as submerged vegetation and fallen trees. Smallmouth bass prefer rocky structures and areas with clearer water. Spotted bass, on the other hand, can be found in both open water and near cover. Clifford Pirch has encountered and successfully targeted all of these bass species in his fishing adventures.

Pirch’s encounter with these species

With his extensive experience fishing in Arizona lakes, Clifford Pirch has had numerous encounters with different bass species. He knows where to find them, what techniques to use, and how to adapt his strategies based on their behavior. Pirch’s encounters with these bass species have contributed to his overall success as an angler and shaped his deep understanding of their habits.

Hunting Season Highlights

Clifford Pirch’s enthusiasm for hunting

Clifford Pirch’s love for the outdoors extends beyond fishing. He is an avid hunter, particularly during hunting season. Pirch finds solace and excitement in the Western landscape, using his knowledge and skills to pursue game such as elk and deer. Hunting season provides a different kind of thrill and adventure, allowing Pirch to immerse himself in the natural beauty of the wilderness.

Hunting for elk and deer

Elk and deer hunting are two of Clifford Pirch’s favorite hunting activities. These majestic animals inhabit the Western landscape and provide a challenging and rewarding hunting experience. Pirch appreciates the skill and patience required for successful hunting and enjoys the connection with nature that hunting provides.

Pirch’s love for the Western landscape and its hunting opportunities

Clifford Pirch has a deep appreciation for the Western landscape and all it has to offer. The vast wilderness, breathtaking mountains, and serene lakes create the perfect backdrop for both fishing and hunting. Pirch’s love for the Western landscape fuels his enthusiasm for exploring its hunting opportunities and further strengthens his connection with the great outdoors.

Conclusion

Clifford Pirch’s fishing and hunting experiences in the West Coast showcase his versatility and expertise in both fields. His finesse fishing techniques, extensive knowledge of Arizona lakes, and mastery of different baits and techniques have made him a respected figure in the angling community. Pirch’s insights into the impact of new technologies like Forward Facing Sonar shed light on the evolving dynamics of tournament success. His passion for hunting and appreciation for the Western landscape further reflect his deep connection with nature. Looking ahead, Pirch envisions a future that continues to embrace innovation while preserving the traditions of West-Coast fishing and hunting events.