Bait Hacks and DIY Tricks: Reel in More Fish!

Bait Hacks and DIY Tricks: Reel in More Fish!

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood March 28, 2025 Duration: 31:02

Join fishing expert and host Michael Ruffino on this week’s episode of Terrible at Fishing as he dives into the art of bait making and shares invaluable tips to improve your fishing game. Broadcasting from Gold Country Radio, Michael kicks off the show with a quick fishing report, cautioning anglers about unstable ice on local lakes and suggesting river fishing as a safer and more productive option.

In the heart of the episode, Michael reveals his passion for hard baits, discussing his favorite colors and designs that work best in local waters like Lake of the Woods. From airbrushing techniques to choosing the perfect paint and clear coat, he shares his secrets to creating baits that consistently catch fish. Michael also explains the importance of matching bait colors to specific water conditions and offers insights into his go-to black and blue bait designs.

The episode doesn’t stop there. Michael takes listeners through the process of making spinners and soft baits, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of DIY approaches. He showcases the Tackle Tool by Jan’s Craft, a must-have for making spinners that fit any fishing style, and discusses the intricacies of crafting soft baits with affordable molds and plastisol.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and creative bait ideas to help you stand out on the water. Plus, Michael’s passion for crafting unique, effective baits will inspire you to try your hand at making your own!

Tune in Fridays at 7 PM and Sundays at 6 AM on Gold Country Radio! 🎣

Watch Michael Ruffino on his youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@terribleatfishing


You might be terrible at fishing, but that’s exactly where this show begins. Terrible at Fishing Radio Show on Gold Country Radio is built on the idea that the best lessons come from mistakes, and host Michael Ruffino has made plenty of them. An expert fisherman with deep roots in Southern Oregon, Michael doesn’t just share polished tips; he digs into the messy, real-world process of figuring out what actually works on the water. While the focus is on local lakes, rivers, and waterways, the insights are universal, applying to anglers casting a line anywhere. Each episode feels like a conversation with a seasoned friend who’s more interested in you catching fish than sounding like a textbook. You’ll hear practical tricks, seasonal advice, and honest discussions about why some days nothing seems to bite. Produced by Michael Wood, this podcast transforms a regional radio broadcast into a personal guide for the wilderness. It’s for anyone who loves the sport but could use a nudge away from common pitfalls, delivered with a dose of humility and a clear love for the outdoors. Tune in to shift from frustration to a more confident, enjoyable day by the water.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 25

Terrible at Fishing Radio Show on Gold Country Radio
Podcast Episodes
Careless, Crazy, or just plain Ignorant? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:16
This week Michael re-emphasizes the need to practice precautions while out on new ice. He tells of people that he saw this week who were either careless, crazy, or ignorant. Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing! What baits and…
Hanging in the Ice Hut -- First Ice Fishing Adventure of the year! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:07
Hard ice, trouble with errecting the shelter, beautiful green translucent floor, and the first fight and catch under the ice. Scary cracking sounds making you ponder if you should get up and run! Tips on baits and lines…
Fire Week [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:04
Why Michael fled California for Oregon. Prayers for those facing the fires. Arcade memories from childhood and a super cool blast from the past! Michael emphasized the need to be safe on the ice while out on the frozen w…
Ice Fishing! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:41
When is it safe to get out on the ice? How do you find out? What the heck is a spud bar? What can you catch while ice fishing? Ways to be safe out on the ice and get excited about all the fish you will catch while out on…