Seize control of the seven seas! 44 million Americans identify themselves as recreational fishers.
If you want a relaxing activity in the great outdoors, you should go on a fishing trip. But the best fishing trip requires a few preparations. You need to know about fishing essentials and pack the best fishing gear for your trip.
What do you need to catch your fish? What is the best type of bait? How can you stay safe on your boat?
Answer these questions and you can become a great fisher in no time. Here is your quick guide.
Contents
Rods and Reels
Rods and reels are the main tools you use to catch fish. Your rod should be sturdy, but you can select a plastic, metal, or wooden rod. The reel should move your fishing line and hook up and down as soon as you start to spin it.
Spin rods are one of the most popular types of fishing rods, as they have good stability and power. Telescoping rods are lightweight, making them easy to carry around as you’re walking up and down the boat. Test out different rods at a fishing store so you know which one is best.
Fishing Lines
Most people think fishing lines are made with rope. In reality, you can find fishing lines made with nylon, plastic, and other substances.
You can pick any substance for your fishing line, as long as your fishing line is the right diameter and length. If your line is too wide or too long, you may not be able to cast your hook to the right depth.
Bait
You can use plastic bait or electric lures to attract fish toward your boat. However, live bait tends to be the best fishing bait. Live bait moves around, tricking fish into thinking the water around your boat is safe.
Fill a cooler with dozens of small fish you can use as bait. Some recreation areas and ponds offer bait vending machines where you can buy your bait. It’s okay to use these machines as long as you keep your bait alive.
Shoes
Shoes may be the most underrated part of your fishing packing list. If you have flat shoes with bad grips, you may slip on your boat and injure yourself.
Try to buy shoes that are specifically for boats and wet environments. You can purchase fishing shoes from repthewild.com and other online retailers, though you should look at a few different options. Try your shoes on after purchasing them and walk around your house to break them in a little.
The Fishing Essentials You Need
You need to know fishing essentials before you hit the ocean. A fishing rod and reel will help you catch fish, and you should examine a few products before you make your purchase. Attach a good line with a moderate length and width so you can cast your hook out.
Use live bait instead of plastic lures, and make sure the bait can move around in the water. While you’re fishing, you should wear a good pair of shoes.
Once you have your essentials, you can start learning how to fish. Read more fishing guides by following our coverage.