There are lots of pastimes from which to choose, but an accessible, enjoyable one for many is that of fishing. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of any age. To fish properly, make sure you know what you are doing, and that you have the right equipment. You can get off to a great start by taking a look at the suggestions below.
If you fish at night, consider using a lighted bobber. Bobbers that are lighted contain small bulbs that help you see when fish bite. When the bait is touched by a fish, you will see the bobber moving up and down.
It’s important to check on the weather before you set out to make sure that your fishing trip will be safe and productive. You should keep a radio beside you since weather tends to change.
In most instances live bait that is native to the area will catch more fish. Fish generally eat any insects that are located near their body of water. Fish are likely to bite an insect you have caught near their water. There are a lot of expensive lures that do not work very well and only help the bait store, not the fisherman.
Keep abreast of the fishing law in areas you frequently fish in. In some areas, it is illegal to fish in protected lakes or rivers. Others forbid the use of specific types of bait. One way to ensure that you are following the fishing laws is to speak to local government agencies.
Keep track of the wind when fishing. The wind can drive fish to the bottom or one end of the lake. In this scenario, you want to cast into the wind. If an especially strong wind is blowing, however, you won’t be able to catch many fish, as most fish hide from wind at the lake bottom. Your equipment won’t be able to reach all the way down to where the fish are.
Small-mouth bass and walleye may be rather picky when it comes to bait. Keep your arsenal diverse by packing a couple dozen leeches just in case. Leeches can be kept alive overnight if kept in a ventilated container, such as a Styrofoam cooler, with a few inches of water in the bottom.
If you are practicing catch and release, then don’t fight when reeling in fish. Many sudden movements that the fish makes while fighting can cause it to become injured. If the fish is proving difficult to reel in, just let it go.
Only fish for what you plan on eating. Though it’s fun to return home with fish, don’t do it if you’re just going to toss the fish away. If you think that you have caught more than your fair share, consider throwing some back so that others may have the same fortunes as you.
Do not allow the excitement of hooking a massive fish cause you to panic. Avoid reeling in a fish while it is actively swimming away. Hang back and let your rod’s drag take care of the work for you. Once your hook has been set, try setting your drag. Keep a 45-degree angle with your rod, and keep the aim at your fish.
As noted, it is not hard to get started in the sport of fishing. By taking the tips that were given to you into consideration, you will soon be fishing like a pro. So, set aside some time with your family, and go fishing. The quality time that you spend together will be truly enjoyable.