The Benefits of Fishing: More Than Just a Hobby
Fishing can be a rewarding experience. It’s helpful if you’re catching while you’re fishing. Here are some suggestions and techniques to set you up for success.
Knots are so important that it’s hard to understand sometimes. We often hear that one knot is better than another. We recommend using a knot that you tie well.
Find instructions for tying a knot that you like, then practice tying it at home. Tie a knot, then try to break it. Do this over and over again. Wet your knots with saliva before you tighten them up or “pull them down.” Your knots should be almost as strong as the line without any knot.
- You can catch small fish on bad knots, but if you’re lucky enough to hook a big one, it will be gone in a “snap” with a bad knot.
Fishing Methods
- Shore fishing (SF): Shore fishing is a great method because it’s simple, effective, and available to everyone without high expenses. Many boat fishermen also fish from the bank often.
- Boat fishing (BF): Boat fishing lets anglers reach water that can’t be accessed from shore. Techniques that can’t be used from shore can be utilized from a boat.
Techniques for Shore and Boat Fishing
- Bottom Fishing (SF & BF): This method uses a sinker, usually lead, as a weight to help cast your offering and hold it in place. Different rigs allow you to present your offering at different depths or heights off the bottom or right on the bottom.
- Bobber Fishing (SF & BF): This technique involves using a float or bobber above your bait. You can set the bait to be at the desired depth below the bobber. Bobbers also bob or go under, signaling when a fish is biting. This method is ideal for fishing in ponds and calm lakes. You can also cast to the top of flowing pools and drift your bait through the pool. If nothing takes it, reel in and cast again.
- Fly Lining (SF & BF): This method uses just a hook on the line. The bait is thrown out and allowed to sink slowly. You watch your line for movement to detect the bites.
- Fly Fishing (SF & BF): Fly fishing requires practice to be proficient. This method uses lightweight artificial flies that mimic insects or small fish to attract fish. It’s effective for catching trout and other species in streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans.
- Trolling (SF & BF): Trolling involves pulling baited lines through the water behind a moving boat. This technique covers a larger area and is effective for locating actively feeding fish. It’s suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing and useful for catching fish in open water. Salmon, walleye, bass, trout, striped bass, and many other species respond to trolling techniques.
- Casting Lures (SF & BF): Casting lures is effective in many situations and on most species. It’s also a lot of fun!
Gear
- Spinning Rods and Reels: This is an easy fishing technique for beginners. It uses a spinning reel, which is simple to operate. Catch the line on your fingertip, open the bail, and cast your line.
- Baitcasting Rods and Reels: This versatile technique uses a baitcasting reel to cast a baited line. This method allows for greater control and accuracy, making it suitable for targeting specific spots where fish are hiding. Baitcasting requires practice to master, but it’s a valuable skill for catching various types of fish.
- Spincasting Rods and Reels: This technique refers to closed-face spinning reels with a button on the top and a cover over the line. They’re easy for beginners to learn but limited in their application. Spincasting rods and reels are easy to operate and reduce the risk of tangles. Simply press the button on the reel, cast your line, and let the bait sink.
Choose a fishing technique and learn it well. You’ll enhance your fishing experience and increase your chances of a successful catch. Whether you’re fishing in a local pond or a vast lake, these fishing tips will help you enjoy the sport to the fullest. Once you’re proficient in one technique, you can move on to others.