Is there such thing as too long in learning by ear

[PrinceJ]

So i was wondering when I listen to bass lines it just feels like I know the keys to it but when i try to figure it out i would have to go up and down the lines and frets in end i can find it but it just takes **** load of time

[seanm]

The more you do it, the easier it gets. Just keep trying!

[tjh]

I am not good at starting from scratch by ear ... never have been .. generally, if I cheat and get the chords/key, I find it helps a ton, and then it seems to happen in a reasonable time ... but, I am old and probably have less patience than most, so I usually exhaust all options available from Youtube to chord charts, and even on occassion tabs to get close, and then try to work it into something that sounds like what I need to fit the mix ... I dont think there is anything wrong with finding ways to avoid the 'frustration mode' of endless trying to figure out when struggling ... but I do notice, that even minimal background on theory and chord/scale structure helps a great deal, and the more of that the easier it gets ... JMHO

[PaulNYC]

Turn on the radio, and play along. It's fun and good for your ear.

[Basshoofd]

I suggest learning to sing the notes first. When you can sing them, you can find them on your bass.