Is your favourite fishing hole losing its appeal? The competition with other fishermen for the best spot or even the parking? If you’re an avid fisherman then the answer is yes. Ever thought about private ponds for bass fishing? But how would you go about getting permission to fish at the private ponds?
It’s easier than it sounds. Land owners may be a bit suspicious of you, but who can blame them. No one, especially a property owner, appreciates trespassers and litterbugs. It’s best not to come on too strong when you talk to the owner of a private pond. You should be congenial and show a good amount of admiration of the person’s efforts and rights to privacy. Express to them that you view mother nature with high regard. Try to give them about a week’s notice when you would like to fish. Be sure to let them know when you are there and when you are leaving.
Always ask them if there is a certain area they would prefer you park in. Do not intrude on their private lives, if they are not going to be at that property, make arrangements for another time. If they are very negative and give you an out and out no, thank them for their time.
It’s better to stay in good graces with them, because you don’t know who they might know, and you don’t want any negative words being spread about your fishing attitude. Once you establish yourself as a responsible guest, the private pond owner may allow you to invite along other bass fishing friends. Ask them if they could show you around the property. Many good sized farms have lots of secret fishing spots. They may even know of other property owners with ponds that would not mind if others fished their pond. Always leave the property the same way you found it.
Don’t leave any debris lying about the land or water. Offer to share a cleaned catch with the property owner. Always keep in mind what you would do if that was your property and they wanted to fish there. You may even want to go as far as keeping in touch with the owner asking them if there is anything you can do for them or send them a card at Christmas just to keep in touch. Following these techniques will avoid any frustrations.
What are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you find that perfect private fishing pond, relax, and tie on one of your favourite topwater bass fishing lures?
