If you have been fishing for as long as you could grasp a rod and reel in your hands, you probably think you know all there is to know about fishing. On the other hand, if you’ve never held a rod in your life, you may not think you know enough to even try. New fishermen and professional fishermen can always learn new fishing methods, and here are a few useful tips to chew on.
Keep your eyes open for birds while you are fishing. Birds can spot fish from far away up in the sky. If you happen to notice a patten of where the birds are catching fish, then you may want to move in that general area. People aren’t the only ones who enjoy fishing–birds are more than willing to dive for their dinner. Watch their behaviors closely and it just might help you to have a great fishing day.
Instead of using a whole shad as bait, consider cutting it into strips or even cutting off the tail. That way, your bait will not spin around the line as it drops downward, and tangles can be avoided. In addition to this, the scent from the cut tail releases a scent that will draw fish to the bait.
Those who fish with lures would be wise to use a variety of colors. Try this if you have not gotten any nibbles even though you have been out fishing for some time. If your bait is unusually bright or a unique color, it may pique the fishes’ curiosity enough for them to take it.
Before you pull a fish in for the final catch, you should be sure to get your hands nice and wet. This will keep your hands from stripping the fish of its natural oils. You should especially do this if you are practicing the catch and release method.
A fisherman should wear clothing that is similar to his surroundings. Although fish can’t see well, a bright shirt could easily spook them. Stay with earth tones.
When you are fishing on the bank, you must be extra careful not to set anything on fire. Lots of people smoke while fishing, and it’s extremely important to dispose of ashes and butts properly and be careful with matches and lighters to avoid fires. Even though the bank is wet, there can be some dry areas that can catch on fire very quickly.
Always remember to carry extra water and food with you when you head out for a fishing trip, particularly during the warm summer months. The sun and heat can exhaust you, so it is essential that you have enough food and water to give you the energy that you will need. Pack enough drinks and meals based on the length of time you plan to fish.
Many people use lighted bobbers when fishing during the night. With a lighted bobber, it is easier to see when a fish bites thanks to the the small on-board light bulb. Once the fish begins to nibble on the bait, the bobber will vibrate and go under the waters surface letting the fisherman know there is a fish biting.
A positive attitude is an important part of your fishing gear, whether you are entirely new to the sport or an experienced angler. Fishing can at times become frustrating if the fish are not biting. Avoid being hard on yourself if nothing is biting.
An important tip that anyone fishing should always be sure to use is to purchase the correct fishing license for the spot you plan on fishing in. In the USA, there is a different license in each state. You may also choose a day-long or even year-long license.
It’s important to take the right equipment with you when you are out fishing. You may be up in the air about whether to take fake lures or live bait. Knowing the details of your situation is essential to your success.
Fishing Trip
Weather is often all that stands in the way of a perfect fishing trip. It is important to note the forecast prior to any fishing trip. Looking at it about a week in ahead of time and the day before is good. If it seems like the weather is going to be really bad, re-schedule your fishing trip.
Be aware of what odors are on your hands. Whether through the use of lotions, perfumes or scented soaps, odors on your hands can easily transfer to your bait. The fish you are trying to catch could smell this odor, which could cause them to not bite.
Moon phases affect fishing. A full moon is often a good time to go fishing, while moonless nights are not recommended. Remember that this may also make you easier to see, which may require to you take additional measures to remain concealed.
Just release any large fish that turns around during the reeling-in process. When this happens, your fishing line will be too short to begin the pump and reel technique that usually lands the fish. The following time should take a bit longer before you land the fsh.
Make sure that you check the weather of the area you plan on fishing at. Always check the weather before you go on a fishing trip. Things could quickly become dangerous if you are out in the middle of the lake and an unexpected thunderstorm storm pops up. Check the weather before fishing to protect your safety.
Make sure you take a net with you when you go fishing. A net is sometimes required to secure a very jumpy fish. A fishing net will help you reduce the chance of losing the fish and keep it from returning to the water.
If you are one of those people who gets bored easily when they fish, try moving to a new spot every hour. This helps you enjoy your surroundings more by seeing it from another perspective as well as keeping you mentally fresh and alert. You may also find a location where the fish are actively biting.
Be mindful of the colors of your lures with relation to the water color. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bait that your fish will be able to see. For example, if you are fishing in murky water, you should use brightly colored lures. Clear water requires darker colored lures that do not mesh with the surroundings.
Whether you are an expert fisherman or a newbie to the sport, it doesn’t matter. Fishing is fun for everyone. People can always improve if they stay on track, stay focused and try to learn something new every day.