Tips, Tricks & Inspiration
Get tips from our experts on how to catch more fish with your favorite tackle!
A Guide to Fishing for the First Time
Fishing is one of those activities that everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. If you’re new to this sport or want some tips before heading out into the water, then keep reading! It’s fun, relaxing, inexpensive, and there are many different types of fish available depending on where you live.
Checklist for Fishing in Fresh Water:
Make sure your license is current. If you are under 16, make sure that you have an adult’s permission before going out on any water. Know where you want to sh. You’ll need to know what type of bait fish species live there, how deep they like to swim, if they prefer certain types of lures/tackle, etc. Make sure you know how to handle live bait fish before heading into the water properly.
Bait fish should not be dealt with until just before being placed on the hook.
The Improved Clinch Knot
This knot is used when tying two lines together. It’s easy to tie but strong enough that if one breaks, the other won’t come undone. The knot has three parts: A slipknot, an eyelet loop, and a half hitch. To make this knot, start by making a slipknot around both strands of the rope. Then bring the end back through the slipknot so there are no loose ends.
Fishing Equipment & Accessories
Hook, Line, and Sinker
To prevent snags when casting out into deep water, use an appropriate sinker that is weighted enough so that it sinks quickly but does not snag. The most common types are lead shot, metal washers, and small pieces of wood. A good rule of thumb is to have one ounce per foot of depth. For example, if you want to cast from shoreline to 10 feet offshore, add 2 ounces of weight.
Fishing Gear and Tackle
Learn how to choose the right rod for your needs. Find out about different types of reels, lures, bait, hooks, sinkers, lines, leaders, oats, rods, waders, nets, poles, and more!
What Tackle Can I use?
You can choose any type of equipment that is legal for where you plan to go shing. For example, if you are going to catch trout in New York State, then only y rods are allowed. If you are planning to target bass in Florida, then spinners and spoons are permitted. The best advice we have received is to start small and work your way up.
How Can I Learn to Cast?
You should learn to cast before trying to catch sh. Practice by throwing small rocks into the lake or pond. When you have mastered the art of casting, practice putting out baits such as worms, crickets, grasshoppers, or other insects. If you like, tie some colored yarn onto the line so you can tell if the bait has been taken. Once you’ve practiced enough, start practicing catching fish.
What about Accessories?
You should also have some accessories available before heading out into the eld. For example, if you plan to catch trout, you might consider purchasing a small bucket filled with ice cubes to hold them while they cool off after being caught. If you plan to catch bass, you could purchase a net to scoop them up quickly. And if you plan to catch cat fish, you might buy a pair of pliers to remove their teeth.
How to Choose a Fishing Rod
Choosing the right rod can be tricky if you don’t know what kind of action or casting style you prefer.
Here’s some help in choosing the perfect rod for you.
Bait & Lure Selection Tips
Selecting the correct lure or bait will make all the difference when it comes time to catch that big one!
Learn which baits work well with different types of shing techniques.
Catch and Release a Fish If you plan to release any caught fish back into its natural habitat, you must have a valid state fishing license. If you do not have one, contact your local department of wildlife management office for information on obtaining a license.
You should always check with a licensed angler before releasing a sh. The person who catches the flesh has responsibility for returning it to the water alive. It is illegal to remove a hooked fish from the waters without permission.