The Basics of Fly Fishing

The great thing about fly fishing is you can participate in the sport almost anywhere there is water. Regardless of whether you are fishing in fresh or saltwater, all you need to know is how to categorize your water into: cool water, warm water and cold water.

There are many different species of fish that you can aim for when fly fishing such as salmon, trout, perch, steelhead and pike. Regardless of which kind of fish it is that you are looking to catch, you will inevitably need some bait and fishing reels to lure them to you and ultimately into your boat. Because of this, your first effort should be concentrated on getting the perfect bait.

Typically when fly fishing, fishing gear such as artificial flies are the lures that are used and selecting the perfect fly for your specific situation can be a challenge at times as many elements need to be taken into account. However, with a little research into the area you are to be fishing in as well as the knowledge of what kind of fish you want to catch, choosing a lure can be easy for an employee at a bait store to help you make your decision.

You should always familiarize yourself with a number of artificial flies as it is extremely important for you to know for sure whether or not the fish you want will be enticed by your selection. If you wind up catching a fish but it is the wrong kind, this could be detrimental if you had been in a competitive tournament of some sort

Attain as much knowledge in regards to the everyday habits as well as the dietary needs of the species of fish that you are attempting to catch is imperative to your success as a fly fisherman. If the species you are interested in only feed in the shallows and you are trolling the depths, this could be the only reason for your frustration. Knowledge is power, especially when fishing!

Choosing the fish you would like to catch is all about personal preference. If you like to eat salmon or trout than chances are you have an interest in catching these species yourself. Never fish for a certain species without a valid interest in why you are looking to catch them. Unless of course you are prepared to return them to the water unharmed. Always be extremely quiet when fishing. The fish may be under water but they can hear commotion and sense disturbances in the surrounding water. Fish cautiously and always with someone else.

A Beginners Guide to Ice Fishing

Don’t put off catching that prized trout or trophy walleye until the spring. These bass fishing tips will have you planning your fishing on ice. Literally! Ice fishing can be extremely rewarding as well as exciting. It will have you praying for ice and snow every year once you come home with a few giant fish.

When planning your first ice fishing experience, there are a few things you need to prepare for before taking off. The first piece of information you will need to be aware of is how early it is in the season. Which kind of fish are you attempting to catch? What kind of bait and fishing gear are you going to need to have with you and how to you intend to keep warm?

Safety is also an important factor, particularly if you are planning your trip later in the season, in the early spring. Before ever walking on ice, you must first always determine that the ice you are about to set foot on is at least four inches thick. Checking ice reports in the area before you set out is a crucial part of ice fishing if you are being properly cautious.

Always have a checklist of everything you intend to bring with you so that you can double check to be sure you have everything you need before you take off. Having a thorough checklist of your day can mean the difference between a pleasant, smooth trip and a frustrating one.

Ice fishing houses are available in some places for a little added comfort as you ice fish. Whether you decide to bring a portable shack yourself or have the opportunity to rent on, this is one element to your ice fishing trip you will definitely want to consider.

No matter what the shack may look like, these cozy little shelters can be a luxurious advantage when fishing in extremely cold conditions. They not only provide added warmth, but also shelter from any possible winds that could make fishing downright miserable.

Ice fishing is extremely popular in some communities and the surrounding towns could potentially have a wealth of knowledge and fishing tackle tips that they could provide an angler that is new to the world of fishing on ice as ice fishing is certainly another productive way to pass the time during the winter months. Trophy fish never need to wait to be caught until the weather warms up. You just need to get onto the ice and get to work!

What you Need to Start Fishing

Many people are confused as to what sort of equipment they will need to have on hand for their first initial introduction into the world of fishing. Fishing gear is an important part of the sport as the quality and types of pieces of equipment can directly lead correlate with your success as an angler.

The first step in acquiring the right kind of fishing gear is knowing what kind of fish you will be fishing for or at least a group. If you are deep sea fishing for large tuna, you will certainly need different equipment than if you are fishing in lakes for trout. However, for now we will assume you are beginning with smaller fish such as trout. In this case, you will want to look at rod and reel combinations such as the Zebco 33. This is a rather inexpensive set that will get you accustomed to your new sport without breaking the bank. This set also comes with some 10 lb test fishing line and this will be appropriate for smaller fish up to around 7 pounds.

The next items you will need to acquire are some fishing hooks. Choose live bait hooks in sizes #8 to #6 along with some rigs, and weights between 3/8 of an ounce and ¼ of and ounce. These pieces along with some live bait such as nightcrawlers should have you in rather good shape for some beginning fishing.

If you would prefer to start out using artificial bait, you will also want to begin with a set of 1/0 hooks as well as some 3/16 weights. If it is crappie, bass fishing or perch that you are looking to reel in, then start out with some smaller chartreuse and white jig heads that are similar in color to grubs.

Over time, as you become more familiar with the processes and procedures of fishing, you will find that your choices in lures and other equipment will evolve. However, for now, these pieces will get you accustomed to your new hobby. In the mean time, you will also find it beneficial to read as many books, articles and magazines pertaining to fishing as you can get your hands on. Learning about a sport that is new to you whenever you can will help you become more efficient, faster. In no time at all, you will impress your friends with your new skills.