Fishing: Basic Tips to First Timers
Few outdoor activities are as relaxing as fishing, and tens of millions of Americans make fishing one of their main leisure activities. If you’ve never tried fishing in the past, you may feel that it’s too challenging to start as a beginner. But nothing could be further from the truth. This fishing guide will give you the information you need to get started.
By learning just a few tips and techniques on fishing basics, you can be out on the water before you know it.
Equipment
In order to fish, you’ll need the following equipment:
• Fishing license. Note that depending on the state and the type of fishing, your licensing requirements will vary.
• Fishing rod along with a reel.
• Fishing line of the appropriate strength for the fish you’ll be targeting.
• Package of fishing hooks, suited to the fish you’re after.
• Either live bait or artificial lures.
• If fishing with live bait, a bobber made of either plastic or cork is needed.
Note that all of this equipment can be purchased at a bait and tackle shop or a sporting goods store. The employees at that shop or store will be able to help you out with picking out the right gear. They’ll also be able to make sure you purchase the appropriate fishing license for your fishing trip.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most fishing shop employees are avid fishermen and women, and have plenty of fishing know-how they’re happy to share. Supplementing a guide to fishing with some advice from someone experienced is a great plan.
Setting Up
Once you’ve got your equipment, you’ll need to set everything up so that you can use it.
First, you’ll need to feed line onto your reel. Follow the instructions that come with your reel to fill it with fishing line.
Next, you’ll need to tie a fishing hook at the end of your line. In order to secure the hook properly, you’ll need to use a durable knot. The clinch knot is easy to learn and will keep your knot tight even during a tough battle with a fish.
Last, you’ll need to put the lure or live bait into the hook. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to cast your bait or lure into the water.
Casting
There are two basic types of reels – Casting reels and spinning reels. Each takes a slightly different technique to cast, but the basics are the same.
Ready the reel by either flipping the bale (for a spinning reel) or pressing the button (for a casting reel). Then, draw back the rod and swing it forward in the direction of the water.
Once you’ve cast it out, either let it sit out there if it’s live bait or reel it back in if it’s an artificial lure. With any luck, you’ll get a bit in no time.
Planning a Fishing Trip
So, now you know the fishing basics. The next thing to do is plan a fishing trip or vacation. Fishing in the Florida Keys is a great place to experience warm weather year-round and some of the best fishing in the country.
Mangrove Marina houseboats are the perfect place to stay during your next fishing trip in the Florida Keys. If you’re considering fishing in the Florida Keys, consider Mangrove Marina for an outstanding experience.
