Choosing The Right Fishing Gear

“Fishing Kit Basics”

Choosing The Right Fishing Rods, Reels and Line


Before going deeper into the technicalities, make sure that a fishing license is secured. To be an amateur fisherman there are basic pieces of fishing equipment needed to complete your exciting journey in the fishing world. Knowing the line type and matching the right rod and reel to the fishing technique is just basic common sense. Match these tools appropriately and expect a more enjoyable experience for a more comfortable fishing. There are several things that causes the reel to turn into a bird's nest, don't worry, even experienced fishermen encounter this every now and then.

The main objective is to match the rod, the reel, the line and the lure. These will only cost a newbie around $25 to $40 and they could last for years. The 3 main issues when shopping for a rod are: Guides that are attached to the rod; Grip or handle holds the rod and could come in either cork or foam. They come in different lengths so the comfort to the user must be considered; and the reel seat where the reel is connected.

Dealers make a lot of fishing rods that could either be single or consist of two or more pieces when assembled. The connection is very simple; just connect the male and female ends together to make sure the guides are lined up. This would only last for a minutes. Sometimes, lubricants are needed. When shopping for a rod, slightly bend it to get the feel of it. Again comfort should be considered when using the equipment.

Rods of any type will work. It should be around 6' long and medium weight. Even a long stick will work. This should be long, straight and flexible so it will not easily break. The most popular rod is Graphite because it is so light yet so strong. Wispy rods should be up to 4m long to be used for long casts in moderate winds.

There are a lot of fishing lines to choose from and it can be very confusing to find the best. It is mostly made of nylon and "monofilament" that comes in spools of different lengths that are called Tests. The larger the fishing line the thicker it is in diameter. Find a piece of a 4lb. or 4 lb. Test that is almost 10' long for the basic rig.

The basic rule is that all the gears should match. To summarize your fishing kit, it should include other stuff as well: net, stringer, line clippers, fishing knife, first aid box, a pail of bait, sunglasses, fishing hat, and talking about the basics, don't forget your SNACKS!

Fishing Rods, Reels and Line

Fishing Rods

Freshwater Fish Recipes

Stuffed Carp Recipe

This method can be used for any whole fish, just adjust the cooking times according to the size.

Baked Carp

1 large carp
Olive oil for brushing the fish
Stuffing
4 slices white bread - crumbed in the blender
1 small onion - finely chopped
2 sticks celery - finely chopped
2 oz (50g) butter
2 tspns dried thyme

Heat the oven to 450F or 230C.

Wash and dry the carp.

Fry the onion and celery in the butter until they're soft. Mix in the breadcrumbs and thyme.

Stuff the fish and tie it with some string to keep the stuffing in.

Brush the carp with oil and then bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

The carp will produce some flavored juices once cooked and this should be spooned over the fish when you serve it.

Poached Salmon Recipe

4 salmon fillets
1lb (500g) potatoes
finely chopped spring onions
1 bag mixed salad leaves
olive oil
6 slices prosciutto
Dressing
4 tbspns mayonnaise
1 tbspn white wine vinegar
1 tbspn chopped fresh dill
3 tbspn olive oil

Place your salmon fillets in a microwave dish, sprinkle lemon juice and pepper over and cover.

Microwave for 5 to 6 minutes until the fish is just beginning to flake. Allow it to cool a little and remove all skin and bones and break into generous sized chunks.

Cook the potatoes until tender - about 10 to 15 minutes in a pan of boiling water - cut into pieces.

Combine all the dressing ingredients together - taste and perhaps add a little bit of sugar if you want to.

Heat the oil in a frying pan and slice the ham into strips - fry until crisp.

Take the salmon, potatoes, spring onions and then pour over the dressing - mix together gently.

Put the salad leaves into a serving bowl and pile in the salmon mixture - top off with the crisp ham.

This poached salmon recipe would be good served with crusty bread as a main course or in individual portions as a starter.

Salmon Salad

4 fillets of salmon
lemon juice
black pepper
bag of mixed salad leaves
handful of fresh basil leaves
2 ripe avocado pears - peeled, stoned and diced
12 cherry tomatoes - halved
2 carrots - peeled and grated
2 tbspns olive oil
2 tspns balsamic vinegar

Heat your grill and brush the salmon fillets with oil, lemon juice and season with a few twists of black pepper.

Cook about 6 minutes, turning half way through - brush with oil as you turn.

While your salmon is cooking, assemble the salad.

In a large bowl, tip in the salad leaves, avocado, tomatoes and carrots and mix them all together.

Combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar and pour over the salad.

Mix thoroughly so that the salad is coated with the dressing.

Put the salad onto individual plates and top with the cooked salmon.

Serve this with some fresh crusty bread and butter or some boiled and buttered new potatoes.

Baked Trout Recipe

4 to 6 trout (approximately 1/2 lb. each)
3 Tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon coarse (kosher) salt (or to your taste)
2 cloves minced garlic
1 cup Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc wine
2 Tablespoons Italian parsley
2 Tablespoons chopped green onion
2 Tablespoons dry seasoned bread crumbs
4 Tablespoons melted butter or margarine

Wash and dry trout. Rub the outside of trout with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt.

Arrange the minced garlic in the bottom of a buttered baking dish that is large enough to hold the trout in a single layer.

Place trout in the dish and pour the wine over the top.

Sprinkle with parsley, green onion, and bread crumbs. Spoon the melted butter evenly over the top.

Bake at 400F (200c) degrees for 20 minutes. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

Trout with Prawns

12 oz (350g) trout fillets
butter
4 oz (100g) peeled prawns
white only from 1 large egg
1/2 tspn dried dill
2 fl oz (55ml) double cream
1 tspn lemon juice
fresh chopped parsley

Get two breakfast cups or small bowls and butter them

Cut the trout very thinly and use two thirds of it to line the cups.

Process the rest of the trout with half the prawns and the egg white.

Stir in the dill, cream, lemon juice and whole prawns and divide the mixture between the two bowls.

Cover each with a disc of buttered greaseproof.

Microwave on full for 5 minutes.

Stand for 2 minutes and then turn the bowls onto a plate.

Serve with buttered new potatoes, asaparagus and peas.

Baked Trout

4 trout - 12-14 oz (350-400g)
black pepper
butter
lemon juice
chopped parsley

Heat your oven to 350 F or 180C

Wash and dry the fish.

Oil an ovenproof dish and lay the fish in.

Sprinkle the parsley into the cavity of the fish and season with pepper and lemon juice, then dot with butter.

Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

It will be firm to the touch.

Lift the fish carefully out of the dish with two spatulas, spoon the juices over and serve with some boiled new potatoes and buttered vegetables or a crispy salad.

How to Cook Perch

Perch with Parsley Sauce

Whole perch
olive oil
1 pint (300ml) milk
cornflour/arrowroot to thicken
handful fresh chopped parsley
salt and pepper to taste

Clean and gut the fish - then dip into boiling water for 3 minutes - this will make it easy to scrape the scales away.

Scrape away the scales.

Heat the oil in a frying pan and lower the fish into it.

Fry each side about 5 minutes, depending on the size of the fish - when they're 'flaky' they're done.

Meanwhile, heat the milk in a pan and make up the cornflour/arrowroot as per the instructions.

I mix cornflour with a little of the measured milk.

Add the parsley just prior to the milk coming to the boil.

Remove the milk from the heat and stir in the cornflour (if you don't it goes immediately lumpy)

Return the mixture to the heat and stir until thickened - taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve the perch with potatoes and vegetables with the sauce poured over.

Microwave Fish Recipes

Trout with White Wine

4 trout
pepper
olive oil
1 lemon
1 tbspn chopped parsley
1/4 pint (150ml) white wine
1 tspn cornflour - equivalent arrowroot

Brush the cavity of the trout with oil and season with pepper, parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

Put two of the fish in a roasting bag with the wine and secure with an elastic band.

Cook for 3 minutes - split the bag carefully and put the cooked trout in a serving dish.

Take another roasting bag and put the other two trout in with the liquid from the first bag - cook 3 minutes.

Transfer the fish to the serving dish and put the cooking liquid into a basin.

Blend the cornflour with a little of the liquid and stir into the rest of it - cook for about 30 seconds.

Pour this over the trout before serving.

It would be great with some buttered new potatoes and freshly cooked vegetables.

Freshwater Fish Recipes

Fly Fishing Tips

Fly Fishing Tips for Alaska Salmon

Alaska is known as one of the most bountiful areas with salmon, and is ideal for fly fishing trips.


Fly Fishing Video - Lesson 1

This is because of extreme tides along the West Coast and the gush of ocean currents that create an environment ideal for the breeding of thousands of baitfish.

It is also known as one of the best places to go if one wants to fly fish for giant King Salmon, the largest specie of salmon fish.

The best way to catch these giant salmon (in saltwater) is through trolling or by angling a baited line drawn into the water.

Fishing for giant King Salmon can be a year round activity (especially in Seward).

The most sought-after species of salmon are the following:

1. The King Salmon (Chinook) are the largest of all these species. Its weight averages between 20-40 pounds, the heaviest recorded of which is 112 pounds, and can be as long as 3-4". It has a blue-green back that is lightly spotted.

The average life span of a Chinook Salmon is about five to seven years.

Its flesh can range in color from ivory white to a deep red.

Common names for this specie of salmon include tyee, springs, mouth/kings quinnat and tule.

2. Silver Salmon (Coho) on the other hand is slightly smaller with an average weight of 8-12 pounds.

These specie prefer small streams in which to spawn between the months of July to November.

3. Sockeye salmon, on the other hand, are the most sought-after of its entire species because its flesh has a color of deep red and it has a firm rich flavor.

In fishing for salmon in Alaska, one has to be well equipped with the right equipment (and donned with the appropriate apparel).

Listed below are some of the needed equipment/materials and tips for hassle-free fishing:

1. You must be clad in layers of warm clothes (not necessarily bulky ones as it can hinder in the fishing activity).

2. Over these everyday clothes, a waterproof overall, boots and bibs are likewise necessary to ensure that one would stay dry since after a hook-up, some fish may resist with maximum struggles.

3. Fleet or cruisers that offer services for fishing are usually stocked with bait.

4. A guide on board a cruiser ensures that even amateur fishermen will enjoy the activity by providing crash-lessons onboard. They usually hook the bait for the guest and inform the party as to where specific species of fish may thrive for selective fishing.

Come back for more Fly Fishing Tips and Techniques

Fly Fishing

Deep Sea Fishing Tips

Fishing Tips

Deep sea fishing is a wonderful and extremely enjoyable activity. Here are some tips that will make your salt water fishing adventure even better.

1. Watch the signs

If you see birds e.g. Seagulls that are feasting on small bait-type fishes, there are probably larger game-type fish below the surface of the water. Also, look for floating wood or debris. In most cases when you chance upon a large floating wood, you would find a large game fish in the area even encountering dolphin.

2. Stop, Snook and Listen

Fishing for snooks is quite similar as fishing for bass. Snooks like to be around ledges, posts and rocks.

3. Crabs for full moon

During full moons use soft crab imitations as bait. That's the time when crabs shed their shells and stripers come looking for them.

4. If you're looking for tunas, find the dolphins

Yellowfin tuna are usually found schooling with dolphins. So if you see a group of dolphins, chances are there are some tuna in the area.

5. Cut and Burn

If you have trouble cutting through a spiderwire braid, try using a lighter or a match.

6. Good Reef

The best place to fish is near reefs since big game fish feed on fish that live on reefs.

7. The Circle Hook

Use a circle hook if you would like a higher hook up ratio. These hooks guarantees more catch, because of the minute gap, and the reverse point. They are generally better for the fish since they do not hook in the gut just the lip.

8. Don’t have sea legs

Watch the horizon and stay on deck. These would generally help you if you're having trouble with sea sickness: Stay away from the boat fumes, breathing it only exacerbates the problem.

9. Anchors away

When your anchor is stuck at the bottom, try attaching a float to it. Return after the tide has changed in direction. This should be enough to loosen the anchor.

10. Fish where the fish are

A lot of fisherman have the idea that they should be catching their live baits over the reefs before going to deep waters. If the live baits are not in the area you're planning to catch the larger games, then why would you come up with the idea that the large fish are there. Wouldn't they be in the area where the bait fish are?

Bass Fishing Facts

Bass fishing has a fascinating history. It started in the late 18th century and continues to progress until today.

It probably was originally practiced in search for food among the people in the south of the United States. Since then, it has started gaining numerous audiences of all ages and nations. Today, countries such as Australia, Cuba, South Africa, United States and most of Europe participate in this kind of event.

Timelines

• The year 1768 or 1770 represents the birth of bass fishing sports. Onesimus Ustonson introduced his first multiplying reels to the fishing gurus and lovers. It was later developed into bait caster.

• William Shakespeare Jr. materializes the production of a level wind device and secured its patent on 1897.

• The William J. Jamison Co introduced the overly ornamented Shannon Twin Spinner in 1915 and was improved to create today’s spinner baits.

• In 1932, President Franklin D. Roosevelt instituted the creation of Tennessee Valley Authority and encouraged the creation and building of numerous dams. These dams were later used for culturing different varieties of bass fishes.

• Five years later, DuPont Company filed patent for nylon fishing net, this was later developed into nylon monofilament fishing line.

• The year 1992 is one of the most glorious events in the history of bass fishing. Larry Nixon, the famous fisherman in the history of bass fishing won $1 M total earnings for this sport on this year.

Bass Fish

Several fish species that are being caught in the bass fishing events are the following:

• Micropterus salmoides (Lacepede) - Largemouth Bass
• Micropterus dolomieui - Smallmouth bass
• Micropterus punctatus - Kentucky Bass

Other species of Micropterus are also caught but one that remains popular is the Largemouth bass. However, it should be emphasized that Australian Bass are different from the above North American Bass variants although most share similar features.

Perhaps, the most robust success of Bass Fishing was in the 1950s. The popularity of the game during this period is the springboard to the development of modern fishing equipments from bass boats, rods, lines, lures and various fishing gears.

Electronic gears were also incorporated among the host of equipments bass fishers used at that time. Reels of different types, which function in hauling and hoisting, were also created.

The contribution of bass fishing industry to the US economy records $50 to $70 Billion and the number continues to grow. Statistics show that the audience base of this sport is increasing and that more and more people are getting interested in it compared to tennis and golf.

Bass Fishing Facts

Bass Fishing

Tips for Carp Fishing

Basic Carp Fishing Pointers

Frustrating as it is, carp fishing is awesome. Carp are really good at sucking in and blowing out suspicious baits. It’s such an excitement to see the whole action in a fraction of a second as you hang on for dear life while the reel is trembling with a loud noise.

Carp happily devour on the surface as long as you keep the pellets, biscuits, chic peas, bread, and re-hydrated corn coming in, and these are inexpensive baits as well. Just attach them to the hooks, most preferably the bread. Have the biscuits softened by dipping it in the water for about 2 minutes, then, place them in a sealed sandwich bag for about an hour. Since different brands have different textures, just experiment to know which is firm enough to cast. Another way to hook baits is super gluing the pellet into the shank.

Once they get into feeding, let them feel comfortable around the bait. This gives more opportunity for the fisherman since they begin to not feel picky. This tactic can be useful for zig rigs.

As soon as they’re feeding, cast the bait but make sure not to drop the bait directly onto the feeding carp. Cast away from the feeding area then slowly draw it in position. While the bait is till hanging, keep the food coming in so as to keep the carp from going away.

How to Set-Up?

• Use a hair rig to increase your chance of catching. As carp taste food first, if they don’t like the taste, they won’t come near it.
• You may also use a Spider Line, 50 lbs test, then use a leader material that fits the situation.
• Thread the bait on the baiting needle and hook the hair loop. You may also use foam dipped in a flavor as this enhances the attractiveness of the bait.
• Also make a baiting needle by just straightening a long shank hook. Slide the bait on the shank, then slide the bait from the needle onto the hair.
• Using a float is also an advantage because it adds weight for further distancing and the location is easily identified.
• Don’t forget the controller float rig. A leader can be used which is attached to the swivel to its mainline of at least 3 feet length with a 10lbs Drennan double strength. A low diameter mono will do just as long as it floats well enough for visibility.

As experts say, it is not the bait that catches the carp but the method in which the bait is introduced. Pre-bait everyday, in one spot for a few days. This makes the carp think that there is a regular source of food for them and by “word of mouth” there’ll soon be a school of fish around. Just be patient and it will all work.

Tips for Carp Fishing

The Best Way To Cook Your Freshly Caught Fish

How to Cook Fresh Fish

A freshly caught fish can be cooked in a thousand and one ways. Any fisherman worth his salt has his own unique way of cooking a freshly caught trout, salmon or whatever fish he caught. So fisherman all across the country has been handed down methods of cooking fish. Here are some tips to get the best out of your fish.

1.Frying

Breading and frying a freshly caught fish is as good as it gets. The smell of butter emanating from the frying pan and the flair a fisherman puts in flipping his catch is worth its weight in gold, almost. For the novice fisherman, make sure that the butter is extra hot but not yet burning. Also, make sure that the fish is well coated in batter. Season your batter to your heart's content, salt and pepper never goes wrong. You may want to try other herbs and spices with the batter for a more delicious fish.

2.Grilling

At first glance, grilling would seem to be the easiest way to handle your fish. A newbie might assume that grilling fish is the same as grilling steaks or burgers. Unlike fowl or cattle, fish tends to secret most of its own juices when cooked. On a grill the delicious juice drips into the coals.

To prevent losing the moisture, first coat the fish with oil. The oil will seal a part of the moisture inside. Second, keep an eye on the fillets and turn them as soon as a cut would reveal that the fresh fish is cooked halfway through. After being flipped, watch the fish carefully. Remove the fish as soon as it is cooked through.

An option to basting the fish with oil is to wrap it in aluminum foil. The aluminum foil will keep the moisture and marinate the fish in its own moisture. Placing herbs and spices inside the foil with the fish enhances the grilling process and the fish itself.

3.Baking

Baking is the best option for the fisherman who does not want to watch over the fish during cooking. The fisherman can prepare the marinade and pre-heat the oven, then pop the fish into the oven for a predetermined amount of time. You may want to check on the fish from the time to time, ensuring that you don't overcook the fish.

Whatever fish you caught, a good recipe and proper cooking will for sure enhance the catch. Take time to prepare for cooking, a badly cooked fish will no doubt spoil your day. Remember the first rule of cooking, don't overcook your fish.

How to Choose a Fishing Guide

Tips on Finding a Fishing Guide

1. Open Communication matters. It is important that you provide the guide all the information they need so that they will figure out what kind of fishing trip is best for you. Be sure to be honest in telling the guide how much experience you have regarding fishing. This will help them to know what advice and tips to give you so that you can make the most out of your time.

2. Seek the help of friends and relatives. Ask your friends and relatives who have fished and if not they may be able to provide you with some referrals. It is better to ask them about their experiences, the things that you need to do and things that you have to look for in a guide. They may be also to provide you referrals of the guides they have tried and found effective for them. This will be a chance for you to ask if the guide they are referring you to has enough knowledge or is accommodating to clients.

3. Browse the Internet. The Internet can provide a lot of websites where you can find the best guides in a certain location. You can also post messages and questions regarding the website and they may be able to find the information you need.

4. Determine if your prospective guide is licensed. It is better that you know that the person you are working with is working according to the law. A licensed guide is also sure to be relied on especially with the matters of integrity and trust. Ask the guide of their name and phone numbers including the state-licensing bureau. A guide who is not willing to provide you the information you are asking for is not worth your time.

5. Find out exactly what you are paying for and how long the amount would cover. You need to know this information for you to be able to manage your schedule before the fishing trip and plan the things that you need to bring which are not covered by the payment you made. Some include the price for lodging in the package while other guides may charge extra for that. Asking the coverage of your fees will also help you assess if the services you will get is worth the money you will be spending.

6. Get to know the guide. Evaluate if the guide that you will be working with can get along with you. If not, you will just be wasting your time and money. Fishing is a time to learn and enjoy but if the two of you will not get along well, the whole trip might just be ruined. Get to know the guide first before you set foot on the boat. Exert a little effort to call the guide and make a small chat to break the ice and make the two of you comfortable on the day of the actual fishing.

7. Also make time to find out how long the prospective guide has been on his job. This will make it easier for you to assess the level of experience the guide has earned in that field. It is better that you choose a guide that has been in fishing for many years. They are the ones who usually have the skills and teaching techniques that will be of great help to you.

Fish and Fishing Tips

A prosthetic arm with attached fishing rod. What will they think of next?

Fishing Tips

How to Choose a Fishing Rod

Excellent Fishing Rods for that Perfect Fishing Experience

Today’s fishing rods have incorporated modern features that are not typical of the more primitive cane pole. Modern fishing rods contain reels, which aid in the retrieval of fish caught in its bait.

A much-sophisticated feature is the spinning rod where the entire shaft of the rod except the handle can move around on its axis to allow flexibility when fish caught on snare bait struggles through the water.

Like the classic cane fishing rods, the fishing gadget is thick at the handle (bottom) and is tapered and thinner at the tip. This very basic design allows handling stability and flexible movement of the entire length of the shaft.



Types of Fishing Rods and Specifications

A typical fishing rod measures 6 and 16 feet (2 and 5 m) and vary in capability to tolerate strain in fishing activity. The length has a lot to do with withstanding force exerted by the fish to the pole and determines for the most part the performance of rods used for angling.

Cane Poles

Cane poles are one of the smallest and less sophisticated gadgets in fishing. It is usually made of bamboo or other flexible wood material with the most basic fly line attached to it.

Unlike other more sophisticated fishing rods, cane poles do not usually contain reels or its equivalent to be used for reeling in or retrieving fish caught on bait. This very same action is known as angling.

Spinning Rods

These types of rods are the most popular today. They can be used either for heavyweight or lightweight fish although they were proven best for trout, walleye and bass fish. They vary in measurements from 5 and 7 feet (1.5 and 2.5 m).

Spinning poles are commonly used in bass fishing competition accounting for their flexibility and tolerance to stress. They accommodate bigger and tougher fly lines and stabilize them to avoid line tangles during uncoiling of float lines.

Jigging Rods

These rods are best for heavy lures and baits especially when reaching around 180 to 200 feet under the ocean’s surface. They are made of fine, solid materials which accounts to their heaviness. The use of jigging rods is specifically due to alternating currents during the fishing activity.

Some oceans have erratic undersea current. That is why the bait and fly lines should be kept in place. Lures are also disturbed and cause confusion among fish if the lines are not long and heavy enough to withstand and tolerate water currents under the sea.

These rods are best for target fishes usually found dwelling at the bottom of the sea such as halibut and cods.



How to Choose a Fishing Rod

Fishing Rod

Picking The Right Boat

Lund 16' Fishing Boat


There are two questions that should be considered when choosing the right boat: "What will be the fishing for?" and "where will the fishing activities be?" Always look for the signs of quality check the carpet and the compartments - they could be plastic, metal or fiberglass. Look at the little but very important things like the 1000 GPH bilge pump, the six gauge wiring instead of ten or eight that is because heavier wires gives more power from the battery up to the trolling motor.

There is Five Star Advantage that ranger dealers often speak to their customers: Quality, Safety, Innovation, Performance, and Value. Below is a list of “must have” things when buying your first boat.

Tow Vehicle - This is one of the most important piece of your equipment, ensured that has the rating to get the job done like loading up to 3500 lbs. of weight that could easily pull the boat up the hills and mountainous treks.

Bass Boats - For first timers, consider a second hand boat. This will be a trial and error stage where fishing skills can be tested. Consider a larger boat, which is about 19 feet with 20 to 30 miles speed for larger bodies of water.

Aluminum - In smaller lakes, a 16-18 foot aluminum boat is a good choice. It is cheaper than fiberglass and more forgiving of bangs, running up into shallows and hitting stumps and rocks. The only downside is that it rides rougher even with the slightest winds.

Fiberglass - This two-stroke engine is much more expensive which could cost from $20,000 to as much as $50,000. The good thing with this boat is that it could handle bigger, rougher water and still give you a smooth ride.

Brand new versus Second Hand - Buying a second hand boat is not only cheaper but holds their value longer and better. The downside is that you'll probably inherit someone else's troubles. During casual inspection, outboard engines problems are not easily identified. The best thing to do is bring someone you trust with you to inspect a prospective boat or buy from someone you know instead.

Handling the Boat - Listen to the pitch change when trimming down. Although it will be very difficult for beginners like trying to launch and retrieve the boat backing it down the ramp. Never worry, because everyone passed that stage and there's no boat owner that is not willing to help a first timer learn. Sometimes all it takes is just 4 hours to learn the basics.

Buying a dreamboat is very exciting. It is not the boat that really matters but the experiences that come with fishing.

Buying A Fishing Boat

Buying A Fishing Boat

Selecting the right fishing boat can be a real
challenge and also a lot of fun for someone who is
new to boating. If you haven't experienced buying
a boat before, it can also be a daunting task to
say the least.

Before you start looking, it's important to consider
the purpose of your fishing boat. A fishing boat
serves but one purpose - fishing. You have to
decide if you plan to fish in the ocean, or in other
bodies of water, such as lakes. This is very
important, as there are different types of fishing
boats available.

If you plan to use your fishing boat for ocean
cruising and overnight stays, it would be ideal to
buy one that has a hull. This design is meant for
rough waters, riding the waves, and providing more
comfort for anglers while they fish.

When you buy a fishing boat, you should know if it
includes a warranty. If it does, you should really
study the warranty as not all are the same. Buying
your boat from a dealer is always a smarter decision,
as dealers will provide repair services is the
boat is found to be defective.

It's also important when buying a fishing boat to
note if the boat is certified by the NMMA. This
agency will guarantee that the certification they
give to every boat passes the agency's standards
of excellence.

When it comes down to it, you should do more than
just look around when it comes to a fishing boat.
You should learn how to look for the best details
to ensure that your boat is worth the money. If
you take the time to look around, you'll find a boat
that you can truly be proud of.

Fishing Boat

Fishing in Canada

If you would like to experience real adventure in fishing, then Canada is the perfect location for you. Canada has a wide area of rivers, ponds, freshwater lakes, saltwater and streams. Freshwater and saltwater fishing are the favorite pastimes of Canadians and tourists. Fish in Canada including wildlife are very abundant. Canada offers a lot of first-class fishing trips that will make the most out of your time and money. There would not be any reason that you might be disappointed.

Canada has the ideal water where the fish are abundant. There are also plenty of shops and establishments that sell fishing gear and tools for fishing. Fishing in Canada is divided in two groups. That is the Lake Water Fishing and the Salt Water Fishing. The two groups are totally different especially in Canada.

The most famous fishing in Canada is the Salmon Fishing, which is enjoying and rewarding. Salmon varieties that are abundant in Canada are the Coho, Sockeye Salmon, Chinook and the chum. Salmon are known for their size and beauty. Many fishing guides in Canada specialize in the adventure of Salmon Fishing.

Saltwater fishing is popular in the 3 coasts of Canada. They are the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans. This is a chance for shark and tuna fishing. A lot of big saltwater fish are caught only on deep seas and that is what the 3 coasts offer.

Canada is also known for fly fishing. Fly fishing, which is an older type of sport fishing, is about catching a fish using an artificial lure called a "fly.” Many resorts and establishments in Canada offer great packages on fly fishing.

Ice Fishing is also an option for you if you would like to experience fishing in Canada. There are also ice fishing guides that could assist you in your trip. They will ensure your safety and enjoyable experience in Canada. Ice fishing requires special gear, outfits and techniques that require the help of a skilled ice fishing guide. Many tourists who come to Canada for ice fishing can rent ice huts to keep them warm and away from wind.

For tourists who would like to experience ice fishing in Canada, it is always recommended that you come along with fishing guides that are specialized on each fishing type. It is also advised to bring a compass, cell phones and flashlights as safety device and for emergency purposes.

Fishing in Canada

Learn To Fish - It’s Fun

Fishing is a fun and tranquil sport that lets you spend quiet time with your friends, family and with Mother Nature.

Fresh water fishing is a sport involving the catching of fish in lakes, rivers and streams. It involves a lot of patience, challenge and a lot of acquired skill over time. Anyone can participate in this fun activity, including the kids.

To start, you have to check your State’s fishing requirements and make sure if a license is needed for you to fish. If it is required, you must acquire one by checking with a sporting goods store. They will help you how to get it, and some will even provide it for you.

During the time that you are in your favorite sporting goods store, you can look around and buy the right fishing equipment that you will be need for your trip. Considering that you are a beginner, make sure that you budget well the cost and your spending on the equipment, not deciding on expensive equipments; buy only the basic things you will need.

When in doubt as to what is needed, ask the help of the store keeper, but do keep in mind that you need to stick to a budget. Take your time and don’t hesitate to ask how to use each piece of equipment that is offered to you. Artificial lures for bait can be used or you can simply look for worms from your back yard.

An inexpensive fishing rod and reel will be enough along with a fishing line, hooks, weights, a bobber (this keeps your line afloat), fishing lures and net. A polarized sunglass is also essential, as it will help to see clearly through the water and lessen the glare.

Then if you don’t know the good locations to fish, ask about local “hot” spots, or check your State’s fishing regulations for information about fishing locations around your State.

The time will surely come when you will be a better fisherman; then you may decide on upgrading your equipment. In the meantime, keep things simple.

It is always advised that you avoid fishing alone. Always be with a friend, as when emergency strikes, there can be someone who can call for help.

It is wise to start fishing in shallow waters. Aim your cast in shady or rocky areas where the water is deep, as this is where the fish is expected to be found. Keep in mind that this is all practice first.

As your skill level develops and increases, you can then attempt into deeper waters. But before going, take the time to practice casting to familiarize yourself with your rod and your reel.

What better place to practice than your back yard. To do so, mark off an area using a rope and use this as your guide in aiming your cast. Rehearse and study your movements to discover a method that will work for you. Bear in mind, cast with your wrist, and not with your arm.

Fishing hooks are very sharp and needed to be handled with care to avoid injury. Before casting, it is important that you should look around you and stay unobstructed to avoid hurting other people with your hook.

When the right time has come and you go fishing for real, keep in mind to cast your line always ahead of the fish, making your bait land slowly, with as little splash as possible. The fish will see well at a close point, but cannot see behind.

If your casts are going in a disorganized manner, move closer to the water so you can gain better accuracy.

Watch the bobber closely for any movement. If and when a fish grabs the bait, the bobber will be pulled under water. This signals that you got a fish on the line. Don’t get too excited. Remain calm.

Keeping your line tight, slowly reel in your catch. Place the net near and use it to bring the fish out. Remove the hook from the fish with great care.

If you got an undersized fish (as noted in the state’s regulation book), quickly return it to the water. Likewise, if you have no intention in eating your catch, do not waste it and return it to the water. Releasing the fish will supply the water with more fish, giving future fishermen the thrill to experience a catch.

Lastly, look around you and feel the calm, restful and serene view of the river.

Have fun!

Fishing Tips for Beginners

There are many kinds of fishing equipments in stores, numerous fishing methods in books, and fishing advices online. To make it all simple, here are the basic things you need to know for your first time fishing adventure.

1) How to fish with bait

* Tackle. To plunk the bait, you should purchase lead weights. The weight of the lead would vary depending on the current of the environment. Anglers commonly use and recommend bank sinkers with a number-two hook.

To avoid sinkers to slide, you would need a swivel to act as a stop. To protect the knot, you could use plastic beads between the swivel and weight. Using two appropriate swivels could allow you to rig the sliding sinkers.

* Bait. The commonly used bait for all kinds of fishes is worms. Another popular bait is chicken liver. Remember to buy fresh bait and keep them cold to avoid them from getting soft and allowing the bait to stay within your hooks.

Some of the commonly used baits are cut-baits which include skin from fried chicken, fish entrails, grasshoppers, salmon eggs, shrimps and crayfish tails.

2) How to fish – There are three basic methods for fishing.

* Plunking – It is the most common method used. Use a suitable amount of weight for you to be able to take hold of the bait in a position which is against any current. An option in plunking is to use minimal weight for the bait to move along with the water current.

* Back bouncing – It is done by lifting the bait out the bottom and raising the tip of the rod for one to two feet. Allowing the bait to walk with the current, you should free the back reel or spool. Repeat the steps when the lure settles down on the bottom. Back bouncing is effective in deeper water like fishing in a boat.

* Drift-fishing – It is a simple method wherein you cast upstream or downstream. This may vary depending on the current's amount. You should count the appropriate depth and start reeling.

3) How to fish from a boat – It is important to determine in which location you would perform your fishing. Deeper water needs heavier jigheads compared when fishing on shore.

* With heavy weight which keeps your bait near the bottom of the water and the line straight down from your boat, you are able to drift the boat along with any current. A good technique of fishing on boats is trolling slowly with a fishing device called bottom-walker.

Fishing is easy as long as you’re enjoying the trip. Bring some of your family and friends along and make your first time fishing a memorable one.


Fishing Tips for Beginners

Fishing as Family Activity

Many people love to go fishing, instead of playing tennis or golf. Others make it their primary sport activity together with their families and friends to relieve boredom and stress. Surveys say that more than 50 million Americans love to go fishing and make it their lifestyle option instead of other sports.

In Alabama, fishing represents a substantial impact on the state economy. Hundreds of millions of dollars are represented and about 20,000 people list fishing as their source of livelihood. However, most people consider it as a form of relaxation and a family activity. In general, it is a lifestyle option.

In the book titled “The Incomplete Psychology of Everyday Fishing;” psychologist Paul G. Quinnett dedicated an entire chapter about fishing as a source to relieve stress. In the chapter, “Ethics of Fishing” he points out that a person must appreciate and enjoy the benefits of nature. He also highlighted that fishing correct is a way for an individual to become more disciplined in his lifestyle.

“Family Life First,” an organization dedicated to introducing how to spend useful family time to parents for their children, have factual data that in the past 20 years, 25 percent of a child’s playing time has decreased. Outdoor activities, where most children spend their playing time, have also declined by 50 percent. Since 1969 to 1996, 22 percent of family time activities have lessened proven by the study of the White House Council of Economic Advisers.

Any fruitful time to interact with your children is time worth investing. Fishing is a way to connect. The quality time you get is really worth the effort. The experience you get by catching fish is what makes it wonderful to enjoy and that is the important part of fishing. There are 23 public fishing lakes having plenty of fish waiting to be caught. All children can experience the excitement and adventure of fishing. You will always remember the very first time you caught a fish, and the parent who showed you how to catch it. You gain enjoyable and learning experiences from fishing that makes it a great family activity.

Alabama, for example, promotes its lakes and open banks as places best for fishing. You do not even need a boat to catch fish. There are also stores where you can find what you need for fishing. You may bring your family with you and the time of being together and enjoying the fun of fishing is the best family activity you could have.

Fishing Fish And Fishing

Learning How to Fish

Fish and Fishing presents

How to Fish:

You have decided that you want to learn to fish. There are several ways of learning, the hardest being trial and error. It would be best to find an instructor for one-on-one lessons.

1. Buy seasickness medication

Nothing is worse than ruining your fishing because of seasickness. Most seasickness medication e.g. Bonine would be fine. Even seasoned fishermen are known to take some on rough days. Take one before you go to sleep, another when you wake up and a third one before you board.

2. Buy a reference book

A lot of good books are available at your bookstores and online. The book should give you instructions as well as terms and definitions. Some things you may not immediately understand but you should know anyway. Learn how to tie different kinds of knots. This knowledge will be invaluable for other purposes throughout your life.

3. Go to a party

There are party boats that carry from fifteen to as many as sixty anglers. The boat provides everything like bait, rod, reel, sinkers and hooks. They assist you in fishing and take the fish off the hook for you. Mates will spot you and will generally stay close to assist you. Party boats generally will cost you $25 - $70 a day, and the fish are yours to keep. The party boat is a bargain for beginners.

4. Pick your pier

Assuming you have already acquired skills to operate a rod and reel, you need to look for a fishing pier.
Majority of coastal cities have one public pier or pay-to-fish pier. You can rent tackle and buy bait at the piers. If you're having trouble, there are many pier anglers willing to help and give you tips.

5. Party or pier

You may want to do either step three or four or both at this point. The best thing to do is to do both several times to really learn.

6. The reel deal

The conventional reel is probably what you're using up to this point. The conventional reel is designed for a lot of wear and tear. You may now want to consider other types and makes of reels. Ideally you have met people and perhaps made a friend or two who can assist you in selecting a reel. You can even ask a tackle shop owner for tips.

You need to understand the mechanics of the reel and the other equipment. Learning to cast, tie knots and bait are not that complicated. Secondly, you need to learn where to fish. Successful fishermen know where the fish are located. Fish move from place to place and knowledgeable anglers understand these patterns and are able to anticipate where the fish are located.



Learning How To Fish Fishing