How many fishing trips have you refused to attend because you weren't sure if the fishing experience was for you? Fishing is a source of great joy and pleasure for many people, and the following tips can help you feel more comfortable fishing, so you can see what you have been missing out on.
If you are using shad to bottom fish, then you should cut the bait's tail prior to placing it on the hook. When you do this, the shad won't spin as you lower it to the bottom. This will keep your line from getting tangled. Moreover, cutting the tail releases a scent that will lure fish to it.
Fishermen need to wear clothing that blends in easily with surroundings. Fish don't see all that well, but they can see colors, so colors that contrast with the environment may scare them away. Stick to earth tones.
It is good form to release any fish you've caught that aren't worth keeping. Release smaller fish back into the water as a courtesy. By doing this, you ensure that the lake stays well stocked with fish in the future and the population is not depleted.
Casting on the shore of a river or lake often nets the best results. Fish like to catch bugs and insects in this area for their food, and by casting your lure where they congregate, you may yield a lot of bites. Watch for the weeds, however!
Be sure to watch the water birds while you fish. If the birds are diving into a certain part of the lake, you are likely to find a treasure trove of fish there. Birds dive to eat, and they enjoy eating fish more than anything else in the water. Closely observe their behavior, as it may assist you in having a great day of fishing.
You are likely to reel in the largest number of fish if you use natural bait that is alive. A normal meal for a fish is just munching on the insects that are found near the water that the fish lives. If your bait lives near your fishing spot, the fish are more likely to go for it. A beautiful artificial lure will probably impress the fisherman a lot more than it will attract the fish.
The well-stocked tackle box always includes a sharpened knife. This item is very important and can become quite a problem if you forget about it. Important qualities that a good fishing knife should have include sharpness and resistance to rust.
The best knot you can use to tie on a lure or hook is the improved clinch knot. To make this knot, put your line through the end of the hook, wrap five times, and pass through the hook's eye and the first coil. The end must then be pulled through the loop tightly to complete the knot.
Fishing requires good equipment, practice and skill. Fishing is simple, and at the same time complex, which gives it a broad appeal that many people embrace. Use the advice above to plan a great fishing trip, and enjoy coming home with a big catch.