Fishing Gear; The Basics
For many parts of the country, fishing season is just beginning and will be in full swing nationwide before long.fishing gear 1 Fishing is a relaxing, enjoyable pastime that allows friends to catch up, an individual to unwind after a hard day, and families to bond and have fun together. Whether you are fishing from the bank or from your boat, you need to be sure to have some essential gear with you. Personal preference and the type of fish you are angling will affect your equipment, in addition to where you fishing, but every fisherman should have some basic items in his tackle box or boat. fishing gear 2 The following information about boat fishing will help you to be equipped and ready to enjoy a great time at the old fishing hole:
- Personal protection is a must for comfort and safety, so start at the top with a good hat. Next, sunglasses will provide important protection for your eyes. It is a boating fact that the water creates more glare so be prepared with good UV protective lenses. Sun block is also necessary to protect yourself from the elements.fishing gear 3
- A fishing license is required in nearly all bodies of water in all states and for anyone over 16 years of age. Laws vary from state to state so check with your Fish and Game Department or boating facts sheet first. Fishing licenses are readily available at most sporting goods stores. The penalties can be great so it isn’t worth the risk to fish without it. Many states have one free fishing day each year so if you’re just trying out the sport, this is a good day to go.
- fishing gear 4Extra line. Whether you’re reeling in a big shoe or the 15 pound trout that will make tonight’s supper, you’re bound to have a fishing line break or get tangled on a branch. Always have an extra spool of your favorite fishing line. If you are going to be fishing in rough conditions, you will need to have a heavier, more durable line. Information on boating on a crystal clear lake suggests using a thin, clear line.
- Hooks. Your tackle box should contain a variety of hooks so you’re ready for any sort of fish. The traditional J-hook is a classic, but some old-timers swear by the French hook. It is just a good idea and common boat fact that extra hooks in a variety of sizes are helpful.
- Bobbers or floaters help you know when that elusive fish finally nips your line.fishing gear 5 When the bobber sinks, the action begins. The most popular bobbers are the red and white spherical plastic ones, but they also come in many sizes, shapes and colors. The round bobbers just clip to the line so they’re easy to use, but they do limit how deep you cast your line. And because they attach so easily, they also come off more easily, so extras are important. Slip bobbers let you slide it up and down making rigging a little more difficult and time-consuming, but you can generally cast deeper.
- Sinkers. A hook and the appropriate bait for your choice of fishing spot are usually not heavy enough to sink very deeply, leaving your set-up floating very near the surface. A sinker, or small metal weight, will help pull the hook deeper. They’re also easy to lose, so carry extra.
- Bait and Lures. Most information about boat fishing shows that live worms on the good old hooks are the order of the day in most spots.fishing gear 6 Carry plenty of live bait such as minnows or worms for your trip.
- Plastic worms are also available for back-ups, and sometimes their colorful tails really catch the bites. A few lures are also really helpful if nothing is biting on live bait. There are hundreds of types of fishing lures to choose from with funky names such as: spinners, spoons, poppers, Deep Driver, Widowmaker, Mini Turbo Slammer, Giggly Stick and more.
- Needle nose pliers are an essential tool needed for taking the hooks out of the fish. Or you. Whichever. Sometimes, hooks get away from you. It’s a boating fact.
- Speaking of runaway hooks, a small first aid kit is a good thing to carry on your fishing trip.fishing gear 7 Bandages, triple antibiotic ointment, waterproof medical tape and hand-sanitizer should take care of most minor mishaps.
- Nail clippers. Sometimes you get a snag on your line and it needs to be cut. While a pocket knife can do the job, professional fishermen know that a set of large nail clippers is quicker, easier and safer.fishing gear 8
And finally, don’t forget a camera. While you’re there to snag a great fish, you might just snap a few fabulous shots of the peaceful lake surrounding you. Just have fun!
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