Tactics for the Angler Fishing From Shore

Angling from shore usually places the fisherman at a distinct disadvantage.  My purpose in writing this article is to give you a few ideas about how to maximize the chances of you having a great fishing experience without using a boat.  Perhaps it is that you cannot afford to buy one, or maybe you just feel more secure with both of your feet on the ground.  Whatever the reason may be it is perfectly okay that you do your fishing from the water's edge rather than by watercraft.  

Plan your work, and work your plan is an old adage that's been around for years and yes it certainly applies to fishing too.  Strategies for how you approach the body of water you are fishing will constitute your work.  To plan your trip strategy first start by viewing a map of the area you plan to fish. Many state agencies such as the Fish Commission, The Department of Wildlife or the Department of Natural Resources are all excellent sources of where to obtain maps.  Google earth is a great tool to use for providing a starting point in finding where to fish in any certain water.  There are places accessible on land that cannot be reached by boat.  These are the little nuggets that you have to find in order to have a successful fishing trip.      

The further you must walk to your fishing area, the lighter your load should be for ensuring comfort.  When walking long distances take only the essential things that you need.  One fishing rod is plenty and only take the lures and/or tackle that you will definitely use.  Here a backpack usually helps to put the weight of what your load in a more comfortable position.  Tip: Be sure to take a bottle of water along with a light snack as dehydration can occur when walking longer distances.  The snack will help to keep your energy level high throughout the day.  

Fish only at spots in which you have predetermined to be the most highly productive areas.  These are places that you have fished before or areas that you think have the structure  needed to attract and hold the fish species you are seeking.  Structure can be found with the use of a map specifically made for that purpose.  The maps described are sold at sporting goods stores and by the US Geological Survey.  By eliminating those places you have deemed unfruitful more time can be spent fishing and less time in looking for where the fish might be located.

Do not discount the idea of wading in a body of water also.  This will further increase  the number of areas that you can have access to fishing.  By traveling only a few feet into the water you can extend the places to fish by as much as 4 or 5 times.  Drop offs and underwater ledges are sometimes just out of casting distance from shore.  However, closing the distance by wading out closer to these areas can mean the difference between fishing and catching.