If you need a breather from your work and the continuous hustle and bustle of city living, then maybe it is time to get into fishing. Fishing is one of the perfect ways to spend some time with friends and to refresh your batteries without going too far. If you have never tried fishing before, it is high time that you do. However, before you schedule a fishing trip with your buddies, you need to have the right fishing gear first. Here is a list that you should have:
- Fishing License
Unless you are less than 18 years old or more than 70 years of age, you will need a fishing license. Even if you are trying out fishing for the first time, the Australian Government will require that you purchase a Recreational Fishing License. Do not worry, though, since RFL licenses are incredibly affordable. You have to ensure that you educate yourself with the conditions that come along with your license, such as the size and limits of your catch, the fishing methods permitted, and even on how to handle certain species of fish that you might catch by accident.
- Fishing Rod
Fishing rods are durable and flexible poles made up of either fibreglass or graphite that allow you to cast your bait further into your fishing area. Rods come in different types and are rated by their length, strength, action, and action. Your choice of the rod should depend on the kind of fishing that you are going to try. For example, fly-fishing needs a much slimmer and versatile rod, while angler-fishing will require a much more durable rod. If you find rod choices to be overwhelming, you can quickly go to an outrigger shop and ask a salesperson to recommend a beginner rod for bait casting.
- Fishing Reel
Unless you have chosen to purchase a rod and reel combo, your next choice of gear is the fishing reel. Your choice of the fishing reel will go with your choice of the fishing rod or vice versa. If you have already picked a fishing rod that you like, your choice of the fishing reel will be limited to the reels that are compatible with your rod choice. If you have a choice, choose a reel that is within a reasonable price that you can afford. You can always upgrade to a better reel if you feel that fishing is a hobby that you will stick with for a long time.
- Baits, Lures, Hard baits, and Spinners
These are the things that you need to attract fish onto your hook. Baits are natural living animals that fish are attracted to such as worms, small frogs, small fish, and other small animals that you can attach to your fish hook. Lures, hard baits, and spinners are human-made baits that are designed to attract fish.
- Fishing Paraphernalia
Hooks, bobbers, sinkers, and swivels fall under fishing paraphernalia and are necessary for making your fishing experience more efficient. There are different types and sizes of hooks to choose from, and your choice should depend on your target fish. Bobbers will allow you to know if your bait is being nibbled on and if you are about to get a bite. Sinkers and swivels are useful in the strategic placement of your bait or lure to attract your desired fish. For example, if your fish is a bottom feeder, the use of sinkers will ensure that your bait will fall on the bottom of the lake or river.
- Fishing Essentials
Although not a part of fishing gear, other essentials such as sunglasses, sunscreen, fishing hats, drinking water bottles, and other comfort items are also needed during your fishing trip. You would not want to enjoy your first fishing trip but resent it afterward because of terrible sunburn.
When you have all your beginner fishing gear in hand, it is now time to enjoy your first fishing trip.