All About Fishing

Angling is probably one of the most popular forms of recreation in the world. People fish from shore and from boats, for almost every type of game fish. The equipment used in fishing, or tackle as it is called by fishermen, is relatively uncomplicated. The basic tools are a rod, a reel, fishing line, and hooks and lures. Because tackle is inexpensive and finding a place to fish is easy, almost anyone can fish. The sport provides a source of fresh food, and anglers also enjoy the time spent outdoors either alone or with friends.

Sportfishing may be done in fresh water or salt water. Freshwater fishing takes place in lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. Fish in these waters include many species like bass, trout, etc.. On the other hand, saltwater fishing occurs in oceans, estuaries, and tidal rivers. The fish you can catch here are typically bigger than the usual ones you can catch while freshwater fishing. They include tarpon, marlin, halibut, and tuna.

You've probably heard about spin fishing, bait fishing, and fly fishing. These are the most common types of angling used both in salt water and fresh water fishing. But what exactly are the differences between these three?

Bait fishing means using live or dead bait to catch fish. When a fisherman goes bait fishing, the bait is placed on a hook and then cast into the water, where the bait sinks. Now, depending on the type of fish, the fisherman may then let the bait sink to the bottom of the water, jig the bait up and down to attract fishes by the movement, or reel the bait in to attract fish swimming near the surface of the water.

Spin fishing uses metal or plastic lures to entice and catch fish. As the fisherman reels in the line, the lures spin. Fishermen using this technique always pay close attention to the speed by which they reel in the lure, as well as the depth, or how deep is the lure in the water. These techniques are necessary to mimic the movements of common game fish prey. When a fish bites the moving lure, it usually hooks itself, and then the fisherman just has to reel it in and land it with either a net or a gaff. When fishing for smaller game fish, lighter rods are used, while bigger fishing rods are reserved for larger ones.

The most difficult method is generally considered to be fly fishing. A typical fly fishing rod weighs less than the rods used for bait fishing and spin fishing, and longer, too. This type of fishing uses feathered lures especially made to be similar to the appearance of insects or small fish. In casting, the fly rod is whisked forward and back using only the forearm. A smooth and sharp snap of the wrist sends the line into a specific spot in the water. Depending on the type of fly, it can then float or sink in the water. The part about fly fishing that makes it so difficult is that you have to use a smooth, precise motion to introduce the fly into the water as naturally as possible.

The best seasons for fishing are considered to be spring and fall, since these are when the fish are most active. Fish can still be caught during summer and winter, but the fish are generally more sluggish and less inclined to chase lures or bait. Water temperatures also play a critical role in deciding the best time to fish, since different fishes are more active at different temperatures. If their natural prey is around, you can also expect game fish to be more active.