Couple things that have helped me over the years:
- As others have said..keep a log book. Weather, tide, trolling speed, gear, wind direction, location - you name it jot it down. Why you didnt catch fish can be as useful as why you did. look for patterns, cause and effect. I ve found some spots (especially up north - still learning local) that only fire up after a sustained north westerly push and can dry up after sustained SE. Others are only worth a go for the last few hours of a flood through the slack.
- Fish aggressive. Some fisheries are good being out deep, but dont be scared to get in a work the structure. Can cost a cannon ball or two until you get a comfortable tack. You will find where they hold, usually given away by bait congregating. pulled many fish out literally scraping or bouncing off bottom.
- most important is time on the water, cant trade experience for anything.
- may be a funny thing to say.... but confidence is key. Back yourself and what you are doing. I find fishing with confidence and belief is a total different game from fishing in doubt. once i start doubting my tactics, or area...things fall apart and I end up focusing more on what i could of or should of been doing rather than trusting there is fish around and putting full focus into getting them to bite.
Just my .02 cents
