Free Tips About Fishing

A Sea Fishing Phenomenon is here..

2010-04-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

Hear what Esca staff have to say about this fantastic new product

It turns out that fishing from a party boat is an excellent place to field test a product. With a cross section of anglers, fishing with similar rigs, outfits and baits all in virtually the same location at the same time under the same conditions makes for a reasonably scientific laboratory for which to measure results of fishing products. It was a blustery, overcast day in mid May aboard the Peconic Star, out of Greenport, NY. We set out to test a unique new product called Esca for catching fluke and it was perfectly logical to think it would work, but I still couldn’t help being skeptical.

While I’ve experienced that certain fluke rigs and bucktails work better than others and I have become a believer in scented baits as well, Esca is different. Esca, a Norwegian Company, is a high tech fish attractor the size of a quarter that emits flashes of light, mimicking the luminescence characteristics of squid and other baitfish. Various marine species have developed specialized lightemitting organs called esca. Esca means lure light, and it is used by important organisms in the sea, such as krill and squid. Esca is also the name of the light organ of the anglerfish. This has a long modified dorsal fin with a light organ at the end, which is the esca itself. The anglerfish lies motionless on the seabed using its esca to attract other fish.

When the prey goes for the esca, the anglerfish strikes and swallows the prey whole. For the anglerfish, Esca is the ultimate lure. We figured that for Esca to be effective, it had to be in the darkness of night. But we were fluke fishing in daytime so we had to select a location for it to be used in deeper water, which is one of the reasons we decided to fluke fish with the Peconic Star, which fishes in water as deep as 70 feet. We needed enough depth for it to be dark off the bottom for the Esca light to be a factor. We also wanted to be in the Peconic Bay off Shelter Island, a known place where squid typically are present in mid May, as are some very large fluke. Capt. Dave Brennen of the Peconic Star has had many anglers featured in The Fisherman reports and covers for years. Rigging Esca was an unknown, so we had to improvise.

Esca is packaged either with a treble hook, or with special squid skirt. For one rig we removed the treble using only the Esca itself and rings as a component of a typical three-way rig. We tied the Esca in line with the hook swinging about 6 inches above the hook. Another rig was tied with the skirted squid body with a three-way rig. We used the bait that the crew of the Peconic Star offered: squid, spearing, sand eels. Current/ wind was heavy that day and we used 6-plus-ounce weights, but the rigging didn’t twist or tangle. What’s amazing about this product is that it really is a technological marvel.

The lure actually generates its own power when in contact with seawater through electrolysis so Esca needs no batteries. The light-emitting lure is deactivated when it is no longer in contact with seawater. It lasts through up to 100 hours of active fishing and can withstand pressures at depths of up to 500 meters, which is good news for tilefishing and other deep water drop fishing. So, how’d we do? There were four of us fishing with Esca rigs that day and another 25 people on the boat. Many seemed to be experienced anglers and had a reasonable pick of shorts, fewer keeper fluke counts and a mess of sea robins. We weren’t so scientific, or so obnoxious as to count every fish caught, but if you’ve ever been on a party boat, you know well who’s catching the most fish.

Clearly this day, it was team Esca. We simply caught more fluke than others on that boat that day, but more importantly we seemed to have a significantly better keeper ratio. Believe me; we don’t claim to be better anglers than anyone else on that boat that day. In fact, Morten Bilet of Esca won the pool with the largest fluke! The kicker is he’s never fluke fished before. There’s only one conclusion for what we experienced, Esca does give you an edge when catching fluke in deep water and deserves a closer look, especially for ocean fluking. Here’s a thought, as a next step, I’ll try Esca for Fluke at night! Why not? I’ll also try it for stripers, tilefish, cod, sea bass and other bottom dwellers. I’m definitely intrigued by the initial results. Try one yourself, visit http://stores.shop.ebay.co.uk/Escalure-Fishing-Tackle

The Selectivity and Improvement on the Fishing Gear in Canada

2008-04-23T07:31:00.001-07:00

Every country in the world has something to be proud of. In Canada, there's no denying that it has the best fishing trips. If you're a tourist who wishes to enjoy the wonders in fishing, no doubt most people will tell you to go to one of Canada's lakes and take the time of your life to feel the beauty of nature and have a legendary fishing experience. All you need are fishing gear, a lodge for your stay and a fishing boat. These requirements are available at one of the lodges you are going to visit.

The fishing gear
Basically, once you have decided to fish in one of Canada's lakes, catching fish requires the necessary gear. Fishing gear is generally grouped into five categories, the first three are the only gear allowed to be used in Canada. Here are the five main categories:

Nets. Nets vary in shapes and sizes; some allow fish to swim through them while others are pulled trough the water. The common types of nets consist of, dredges, trawl nets, purse seines, beach seines, trammel nets, gillnet, cast nets, and lift nets.

Hook and line. Hook and like generally come in a lot of forms that include poles, hand lines, long lines and trolling lines. Hooks are typically baited to attract fish.

Traps. Traps are normally confined spaces to imprison both fish and invertebrates.

Grappling devices. These are normally used to aim a single fish or mammal. These devise include arrows, spears, and harpoons.

Stupefying devices. These gears are used to knock out fish using explosives or a combination of chemicals. However, Canada prohibits these capturing techniques for the reason of poisoning of fish and other living aquatic species.

Awareness on the right usage of fishing gears
Due to the growing concern for the aquatic life in Canada, an awareness on the correct use of fishing gears has been used to remind fishermen to cooperate and follow the guidelines in fishing. Various organizations work hand in hand to accomplish Canada's preservation aims for fishing gear. These aims include:

Maximizing the choice for target fish sizes

Increasing the continued existence of fish sanctuaries

Decreasing the impact on the aquatic environment

Reducing fish wastage

Decreasing fishing with unwatched nets

Technology management on fishing gears
The development and implementation on the conservation of the marine environment and on the different aquatic species significantly improved and preserved these marine resources in Canada. Today, Canada's fishing gears are made to reduce the risk of losing and destroying the aquatic individuals living in lakes. Thanks to all the organizations who contributed to Canada's aquatic preservation, Canada is still a world-class fishing country.

Fishing Camps in Canada: Live With the Thrills of Fishing

2008-04-23T07:29:00.002-07:00

Also known as the as the land of trophy lakes, Canada offers the most beautiful lakes that are great for a world-class fishing. Most of these lakes include a variety of fishing trips such as Canada lake trout fishing, Northern Canada pike fishing and many more. Unlike other countries that have little support for fishing trips, Canada has proven itself by consistently keeping its fishing areas superior while still maximizing its conservation efforts. Those who aspire to become future fishermen will definitely have the time of their life if they try and feel the many wonders of fishing in any of its lakes.

The fishing camps in Canada
Fishing camps in Canada are also well-known for their friendly and superb accommodations. Most of these camps dominate the land areas around the lakes but are also the ideal spots for families, friends, or fellow fishermen to enjoy the spectacular view of the lakes and experience a fantastic fishing trip. Most camps simply offer the best and feature a lot of modern facilities providing the lodgers with everything they need.

The services offered by fishing camps
Not only do the fishermen or group of people who take fishing trips in Canada get to feel the wonderful experience of fishing, they also get the best attention during their stay at any of the fishing camps. A lot of these camps offer additional details:

Accommodate up to thirty people at any time of the year

An uninterrupted electricity serving the lodgers twenty-four hours a day

A telephone and internet connection

Include conference rooms for meetings and seminars

Provide log cabins for those people who prefer to live in further private quarters

Provide lodgers with fishing gear, appropriate clothing, and other needs for fishing trips.

Supply lodgers with the basic necessities in everyday living such as food, water, drinks, snacks, wine, etc.

For those who have already experienced the wonders of fishing in Canada, they also gave credit to the staff of the fishing camps they lodged at and who welcomed them and provided everything they needed. Many of these camps cater to a whole family which could make both the adults and children's wish to have an enjoyable fishing trip come true. Truly, people will have the pleasure of relaxing, fine dining, and sharing the great experience with fellow lodgers at any of the fishing camps in Canada.

Fishing Camps for Sale in Canada: What They Offer and Where to Find

2008-04-23T07:29:00.001-07:00

Any fishing enthusiast can find fishing camps for sale in Canada very attractive. But then what should be your criteria? How do you find them?

Think of amenities.

Any fishing camp should be complete with all the necessary amenities. These include fish freezing and cleaning services, boat rentals, and an option for a guide. You can also opt to go a little higher so you can enjoy what's is considered more than basic. This way, you'll have a more laidback and comfortable lifestyle.

Check out other added services.

There are a number of fish camps that include maid services. This means you can come home on a clean cabin right after your fishing adventure. Others can have personal showers installed in each of the cabins. If not, then you have to get used to common shower houses. If you are too concerned of personal hygiene, then you should settle with the former.

See if shops are included in the deal.

The majority of the fishing camps in Canada have bait and tackle stores. If you want more information about them, you can request those from the camp owner. Usually, other items sold include soda, ice, toiletries, and a small section of groceries.

A store can be added source of income for you. You can man it while you're on fishing vacation or you can ask someone to supervise it for you. Either way, you should ask the camp owner if the store is included in the deal.

Learn about the restaurants.

More modern and high-end fishing camps have complete restaurant services. This means that someone can take care of fish preparation and cooking so once you're out of the water, you'll have a sumptuous meal. When you wish to spend extra money on this type of service, you're assured that you'll get your moneys worth.

Determine how near you are to fishing grounds.

The main reason why you're thinking of buying a fishing camp is because you're after fish. The best fishing camps up for sale are those that are situated near lakes or rivers where you can fish anytime you want and not worry about having to go back quickly to camp. You can also choose a well-secluded area to avoid too much competition.

In shopping for fishing camps for sale, you can start scouting in one of your fishing trips or ask families and friends in Canada to do that for you. But for something quicker, you can simply surf the Internet. You can find great websites that offer a list of fishing camps open for sale. This also allows you to evaluate each of them carefully so you can pick nothing but the best.

Costs of Fishing in Canada Is No Problem

2008-04-23T07:28:00.001-07:00

There are a lot of activities that you can do in Canada. You can roam around in Edmonton Mall, considered to be one of the largest in the world. You can go nature tripping among its mountains or, better yet, fish.

Fly Fishing for Less

Costs of fishing in Canada is definitely not a problem. In fact, they're experiencing reduced costs particularly in fly fishing. A 5-day trip with 4 anglers, for example, will cost about $140 for every angler. This includes river beat, complete with access pass, transportation to the river and back, riverside coffee, and a chance to explore the sceneries of Quebec, where fly fish are plenty. For a similar trip with only 1 or probably 2 anglers, it will be more expensive. It will cost an estimated $200 for every angler per day.

Are You In for the Carp?

Looking for a place to stay and to fish is solved by the Canadian Carp Club. They offer the best facilities and the cheapest accommodations. They can take as many as 30 anglers along with Trailer and Bivvy anglers. Thus, all of the charges are spread among all anglers. They can also provide affordable cheap, tackle, and bait. There are also instant freebies handed out.

Hiring of tackle will cost you about $50 a week. This includes leads, catapults, rigs, and hooks. You can also get your own fishing license for $12, which is good for one week. If you want to extend it for a month, you must pay $18.

If you're fishing carp, you may require numerous bait. It is because the more bait you have, the more carp you can catch. The property owner feeds the carp on a daily basis. The club can also take care of boilies. You only have to supply them at least 5 to 10 kilos each week for every person. Each kilo costs $5. They also offer mainline boilies at regular UK prices.

Walleye Fishing Is Never Dull

One of the most perfect places for walleye fishing is the Lesser Slave Lake. Perhaps you don't anticipate any huge walleye, but then it can provide you the best form of action. Normally, walleye caught will be around 15 to 20 inches in length. Occasional catches can go beyond 24 inches and walleye can weigh as much as 5 to 6 pounds. You can also choose different shorelines at numerous local lakes if you want a whole new kind of action. All this might cost $2,500, which is good for two people. This is also good for 6 days of fishing excursion in Alberta.

Now who says fishing costs are a headache? Definitely not on Canadian waters.

Cod Fishing in Canada Begins at Newfoundland

2008-04-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

Up in the north of Canada thrives a little community. It's not about the people; it's all about the cod fish.

When It All Started

Cod fishing in Canada, particularly in Newfoundland, started when the region was discovered before the end of the fifteenth century. Since then, all cultures from French, Portuguese, English, and Spanish came to its waters in order to search for cod. Hook and line was the manner of fishing, with herring, capelin, sea birds, and squid used as bait.

The Process of Cod Fishing

The people of Newfoundland were more into inshore fishing. They fish close to the shore using little boats with depths below 35 feet. They were also engaged in salting and drying codfish, their main methods of food preservation.

Male members of the family, consisting of the husbands, older sons, brothers, and fathers, would usually hunt for the fish while the female members such as the mothers, wives, daughters and sisters remained on shore. The younger boys were allowed to stay with the female group.

Once the males arrived at the shore, the women would then busy themselves splitting and salting the fish. Once this was done, they would begin the process of curing. The salted fish were gathered and spread onto racks and wooden fish flakes. They were left to dry under the heat of the sun. Taking care of the fish was the responsibility of the women, who would take turns guarding them during the night and on rainy days.

The Moratorium

During the early part of the 1990s, the cod, which roamed around the waters of Newfoundland for many years, suddenly disappeared because of years of excessive fishing. To solve the problem, the Canadian government issued a moratorium in 1992. Fishing communities in Newfoundland were deeply devastated with the closure. It hit the women the most. Before the release of the moratorium, there were about 15,000 of them who worked as plant workers as well as fishers in a number of fisheries. Others who worked in businesses related to the fishing industry also lost their jobs. An estimated 10,000 women were qualified for government compensation, but this also ended in 1998. Ever since the end of cod fishing, fisheries employed only a small group of people for shrimp and crab fishing. Processing jobs and competition for licenses was very intense.

Nobody can actually predict the future of cod fishing in Canada, and no one can anticipate if it will ever return. One thing is for sure, however. Cod fishing added to the pages of a colorful history of Canada.

Treat yourself with a Canadian fishing vacation

2008-04-22T06:01:00.000-07:00

When deciding on a long vacation to escape the evils of work-related stress or just to abandon the bustling city life for some time, a fishing vacation to Canada might just do wonders.

Tranquility and relaxation are some of the focus of taking a fishing vacation, with a little adventure and challenge. Enjoying fishing in a boat or from the shore with your family would be a wonderful and memorable experience. Here are some tips to enjoy your Canadian fishing vacation.

Determine how much you're willing to spend

First of all, you have to know how much you can spend. A family can take a low-budget vacation where they take the train or take a driving expedition by driving to the site itself. A low-cost lodge could be rented and fishing supplies limited. The alternative could be erecting tents, which could be adventurous and exciting as you're really close to wildlife.

Those who have money to spend can take a plane to fly to an exclusive resort which has all the amenities. They could also rent a boat or buy a boat to further enjoy their fishing vacation.

Taking the necessary supplies

Know what type of lake you're going to and what hooks and baits they allow on the lake to be ready for your fishing vacation. Some lakes require you to have barbless hooks. Some lakes such as catch and release lakes only allow artificial baits and conservation limit lakes allow live fish baits. It's better to know the necessary information for you to further enjoy your fishing vacation.

Plan the activities

A good vacation has a good plan of activities. Canada's lakes are vast and wide to be explored bit by bit. Trekking, hiking, and walking from one place to another while fishing would be enjoyable. Or taking the boat to explore other parts of the lake and erecting tents for a night.

In terms of fishing, you should consider how much experience and level of adventure you are willing to take. There are parts of the lake where catching fish is easy and there are also other parts where fishing is challenging where there are more aggressive fish such as northern pike and muskie.

Maximize the experience!

It's also good to maximize the experience in your fishing vacation. There's no time to slack! Get that fishing rod and hit the lakes to land some trophy fish or just good quality fish to be eaten. There's nothing like grilled fresh water fish in outdoor Canada.

Travel Tips for a Good Canadian Fishing trip

2008-04-22T05:59:00.000-07:00

Going to Canada to fish is definitely a good idea for vacation. The activity is really fun and worthwhile. Hobbyists and fishing enthusiasts attest that fishing around the numerous fishing resorts across the country can be a potent and effective form of stress relief. Going to a Canadian fishing trip is all the more worthwhile if you observe proper travel preparation prior to going. As you embark on the travel, you should also do several recommended actions to make the trip more enjoyable.

Here are several travel trips that will help make your Canadian fishing vacation more worthwhile.

- Secure proper travel documents. Just like when traveling to other offshore destinations, it would be advisable if you secure proper and appropriate travel documents. Have a secure and legal visa and appropriately book accommodations and air fare. Make sure you take care of all necessary aspects before the trip so that you can be sure everything will be in its proper order when you come back from vacation.
- If you aim to fish, you don't need to bring with you the fishing equipment and gadgets needed. Of course, you can bring your own but be reminded that doing so would only make your baggage heavier and bulkier. If you don't mind that, go ahead and bring and use your own fishing equipment. Otherwise, you shouldn't worry because Canadian fishing resorts almost always provide fishing equipment rentals to clients.
- Obtain a necessary fishing license before going fishing. Though fishing is a rampant leisure and occupational activity in the country, authorities always make sure anglers have all the necessary documents and permissions to fish. You should also secure a Conservation license because it is a prerequisite to a fishing license. As a form of consolation, be reminded that it isn't hard and tedious acquiring both.
- Bring with you necessary identification documents like social security card, drivers or professional license and other pertinent and valid identification cards because those are required when processing fishing licenses.
- Get in touch with any Canadian friends or acquaintances because you need to be accompanied by a Canadian citizen when applying for a fishing license. This provision however is waived at some special cases.

On top of those guidelines, be sure to bring with you sufficient amount of money and your sense of discipline. As a tourist in Canada, you are expected and are required to abide by any special regulations and policies regarding fishing tourists. Make your Canadian fishing trip worthwhile.

Planning a fishing trip to Canada's best lakes

2008-04-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

Canada is probably the best for fishing as it has almost 200,000 lakes with breathtaking scenery anyone could enjoy. The additional bonus of having a scenic mountain range, deep lakes, rivers, and huge rocks makes a trip to one of the Canadian destinations worthwhile.

Taking a trip to one of these Canadian destinations will be truly fulfilling with enough planning prior to the trip. Here are some helpful guidelines for your Canadian trip.

Determine what lake you want to fish

There are two major kinds of lakes: the conservation limit and catch and release lakes. Conservation limit lakes allow live fish baits such as worms or leeches. Furthermore, you can take home the fish you've caught with you. Meanwhile, catch and release lakes require you to use artificial baits such as twister tails. You also can't take home fish.

Determine the fishing season at conservation lakes

Itching for specific fish to catch in conservation lakes? You have to determine the season of these fish first before you pick the time to go on a fishing trip. Northern Pike isn't seasonal so you can find them all year round. The same with Bass. Trout are available from the first of January until the 30th of September. Walleye, on the other hand, are available on the third Saturday of May until April 15. Lastly, Muskies can be found on the third Saturday of June until November 30.

Booking a cabin

There are thousands of resort cabins waiting for you! You have to consider first the distance you're willing to travel from your home to the destination. The best way to search for the best cabin is to research them and canvass prices if necessary by calling them. It would also be helpful to ask a friend to refer you to a good cabin.

Get your supplies ready

When you have booked a cabin, you just need your clothes, fishing gear, fishing license, and other personal items. Most cabins provide you with kitchen utensils and other necessary supplies found at home. You can also bring your own food and drinks.

Challenge yourself and enjoy!

Fishing for big fish such as northern pike or bass will be a challenge as these fish are fierce and aggressive. Practice and get your strategies going while you can as your fishing trip will be fulfilling if you get these prized fish!

And of course, who wouldn't forget to enjoy? Canada, after all, is the best for fishermen. The bonus of the scenery will leave you gasping all throughout the trip. So don't forget to enjoy while fishing!

Canadian Fishing Destinations

2008-03-04T09:46:00.002-08:00

Canada is a large country located north of the United States in the continent of North America. Because geographically, the country is made up of massive and solid land areas, not many beaches can be found except if you would go to Canadian coasts in the eastern and western tips. However, fishing is still one of the leisure and occupational activities that make the country popular.

There are numerous major rivers that run across and within Canada. Thus, local folk are very familiar and adept into the habit and necessity of fishing for freshwater fish. Aside from rivers, there are also lakes, ponds and even creeks that are well maintained so as to continue being a haven and habitat for various species of fish.

If you are aiming to go fishing in Canada, you must prepare to lodge and board in six major areas or destinations. These Canadian provinces or regions are Ontario, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Manitoba, British Columbia and Alberta.

Ontario is where more rivers and lakes can be easily found. The Grand River, the Thames River, Detroit River and the Speed River are among the numerous popular rivers that run across the stretch of Ontario. Sawdust Lake is a water body where many fish species like trout, pickerel and perch are abundant.

If you aim for salmon, you should check out the Margaree River in Nova Scotia. Kasba Lake is identified with the Triple Trophy fishing competition in the Northwest Territories. There are sheltered fishing sites and lakes in Manitoba and there is the famous Pitt River in British Columbia. Pitt River is considered the most diversified body of water, in terms of inhabiting species, in this part of the world.

What is more interesting is that in these fishing trip destinations, most tourists are finding a host of many other physical activities and leisure during their stay at Canadian fishing resorts or destinations. In most cases, visitors come to a number of beautifully maintained sight-seeing reports.

Thus, finding and securing rooms and accommodations for the vacation isn't a problem for Canadian fishing trip destinations. Tourists know that if anyone wants to find some quality time for ones self, packing things and taking flight services immediately bound to Canada will surely be easy. In different fish resorts across the Canada, you'll realize how important fishing is to the country.

Pointers Before Going to a Canadian Fishing Tour

2008-03-04T09:46:00.001-08:00

If you are planning to take a worthwhile and fun vacation alone, with friends or with family, it is very much advisable to consider going to Canada. If you like outdoor and recreation activities, you should try fishing in the numerous beautiful lakes and rivers across this North American country. Canada is in fact aggressively promoting its fishing industry. It has been luring tourists to come and enjoy the hobby, which the country guarantees fun and at the same time unwinding and satisfying. Before going on a Canadian fishing tour however, it is important that you make sure you take note of all requirements and recommended necessities.

Just like normal traveling, you must take the usual traveling means when going to Canada. Secure a proper visa, book plane tickets and make reservations at different lodging accommodations. When in the country, you will be at an advantageous leverage to springboard to any fishing activity at the numerous fishing resorts across the country. A Canadian fishing tour would definitely not be complete if you don't lodge at a famous and wonderful fishing resorts. You won't have a hard time getting to such resorts. You can ask your travel agent or friends and tourist guides about recommended fishing spots and resorts across the country.

Before going on a Canadian fishing tour, you should make sure you are taking with you necessary identification and legal documents like identification cards, social security card, drivers license and others. You will need those identification papers when you apply for a fishing license. Be reminded that Canada is open to all tourists wiling to do fishing activities in its fishing spots provided you have all the necessary licenses and permits to do so. Yes, you aren't allowed to fish without any locally issued fishing license. The Canadian government wants to make sure its aquatic resources remain protected at all costs and as visitors to the country, you are expected to fully cooperate with the country's endeavors.

Lastly, you should schedule your Canadian fishing tour appropriately. September is the best and most recommended month for fishing because aquatic creatures in lakes and rivers are more abundant during this pre-winter month. Months of May to August are also ideal. You will surely enjoy fishing best when the outdoor weather is conducive and cooperating.

Tips for Canadian fishing

2008-03-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

Canada is a haven for fishing and hunting with its extraordinary number of fishing lakes and a variety of established cabins and resorts. Every year, tons of tourists flock these sites to exhibit their love for the sport or just to enjoy the peaceful scenery and relax while fishing.

If you decide to visit Canada for a fishing trip, here are some tips for you to enjoy your trip.

Acquiring a license?

Non-residents of the area at the age of 18 and above must acquire a license in order to fish and to abide by the regulations of the lake. Those under 18 can still fish but only with licensed adults. However, the person under 18 can't have a catch limit, so it's still recommended to purchase a license for under 18 fisherman.

What hooks and baits to use?

Most lakes in Canada have catch and release regulations. This also includes the kind of hook to use. The regulations permit single barbless hook, which can be done by filling in or squeezing the barbed area. This is done to decrease the death rate of fish being caught and released to the lake.

As for baits, live-bait fish is a big no-no for catch and release lakes. So bring alternative baits required by the lakes you're going to fish at.

Dealing with trophy fishes

You never know, you could get a trophy fish in no time. However, in catch and release lakes, it's necessary for you to return the trophy fish back to the water. In order to preserve your triumph in catching one, you should measure the length and girth of the fish. Take a picture afterwards for proof of your success.

How to release the fish?

Being careful is the key so the fish is still breathing while you release it to the water. Play the fish quickly and release it as soon as you have taken the measurements and the picture. Remember to quickly remove the hook from the fish as soon as you get it. Don't squeeze the fish too much or poke the gills or the eye sockets.

If the fish becomes unconscious, you should hold it upright in the water then move it to and fro to let the water run into the gills. After a few minutes, the fish will struggle and that's the time to release it.

The best way to enjoy Canadian fishing is to integrate these tips and enjoy the scenery. Good luck with fishing and most importantly, have fun!

Fishing supplies for Canadian fishing

2008-02-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

Excited for your first fishing trip to Canada? The prospect of going to a remote place without electricity, but with breathtaking scenery will get you so excited indeed. Don't let the excitement bug you much unless you've already determined what you're going to bring in terms of fishing supplies.

Bring the basics

Necessary planning should come before taking on a trip to the lakes. Determine what season of the year or the weather when you're going because you'll need to know this in order to purchase the right kind of clothes and gears you need to bring.

If you are heading to the lakes in the summer, it would be good to bring insect repellent, sun block, and hats to protect your skin and avoid getting heat stroke. For the extreme cold in the winter with the thick ice and torturous fog especially in the mornings, you have to bring your basic thermal protection clothes. If you need to bring immersion suits, ask storeowners or professionals for tips on what is the best to buy.

You could also opt to buy a fishing map to know where the best fish may be lurking. Moreover, Canadian lakes are vast and there may be hidden spots that these maps could point to you. A GPS would also be good in tracking these fish.

Get your fishing gear ready

Now who would forget this? First on your list should be your fishing rod, of course. Canadian fishing may be taken a bit too seriously, so you might as well bring your best fishing rod to guarantee a high percentage of catching trophy fish.

Fishing lines, hooks, fishing nets, and fishing baits should be next on the list. Some lakes such as catch and release lakes require you to use barbless hooks since you have to release the fish after you have caught them. Barbed hooks can kill the fish after you release them.

Also take note that conservation limit and catch and release lakes require two different fishing baits. For conservation limit lakes, live bait such as worms and leeches can be used, and for catch and release lakes, you can only use artificial bait such as twister tails.

If you are still bummed or confused on where to get all these things, the Internet would provide you valuable information as well as prices on online stores.

Too busy to get ready?

Some Canadian fishers opt to go to an outfitter to provide the necessary supplies needed for a fishing trip. These outfitters offer permits, advice, and gear.

Good gear will help you enjoy your fishing trip all the more. So get all your gear ready and head out for a good fishing trip!

Fishing Clubs in Canada

2008-02-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

If you want to take your fishing hobby to the next level, you might want to join fishing clubs, especially if you want to give tournament fishing a try. Fishing clubs are a great way to have fun, learn more about the art and sport of fishing and meet people who love fishing as much as you do. Here are some Canadian fishing clubs you might want to check out:

Hook & Hackle Club
This fishing club located in Calgary, Alberta focuses on fly fishing. It is a not-for-profit organization that teaches its members good fishing ethics and etiquette, along with the proper methods used for preserving fishery. Its main fishing practice is centered around catch & release techniques.

BC Fishing Resorts and Outfitters Association
This Canadian fishing club was organized for British Columbia's tourist fishing industry.

Izaak Walton Fly Fishing Club
This fishing club is engaged in numerous activities, including instruction and conservation. They also sponsor seminars, workshops and exhibits.

Simon Chiew Fishing Association and Chinese Anglers Club
These two fishing clubs are composed mostly of hobbyists. These two clubs are the largest membership-based fishing clubs composed of Chinese-Canadians. Fishing trips are scheduled on a yearly basis.

Algonkin Fly Fishers
This is a relatively young fishing club engaged in the practice and promotion of fly fishing. Located in Eganville, Ontario, it was founded to encourage fly fishing in Ottawa Valley.

Lake Huron Fishing Club
If you prefer a sport fishing club that focuses on conservation efforts, join Lake Huron Fishing Club. This club was formed by a group of Ontario fishermen in 1983 and currently manages two hatcheries.

Niagara River Anglers Association
This Canadian fishing club focuses its sport fishing activities in the famous Niagara River. It also accepts volunteers for restoration projects related to fishing.

Northern Lights Fly Tyers & Fishers
This is a fishing and fly tying club in Edmonton, Alberta. Its website serves as the information center where members are informed of meeting dates and fishing locations.

For more Canadian fishing clubs, you can check the following websites: www.fishingclubs.net, www.canadafishingclub.com, www.ontariofishing.net and www.pcdhfc.com.

Joining Canadian fishing clubs
Not all fishing clubs are created the same and there are some that have a style and theme of their own. For example, there are fishing clubs exclusively for young people and some that accept only female members.

Most fishing clubs in Canada include conservation as an integral component of their clubs' efforts. They also regularly sponsor yearly fishing events, such as tournaments and seminars and conferences.

Fishing for Steelhead in Canada

2008-02-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

If you're an experienced fishing hobbyist or enthusiast, you should be ready for steelhead fishing. And what better place to do it than in Canada? Steelhead fishing is popular there because of the abundance of this species and also because of the numerous bodies of water found there.

The Canadian steelhead
The steelhead belongs to the trout family and is considered as a close relation of another popular fish, the rainbow trout. It is one of the most sought after game fish and is highly prized. It is native to North America's west coast and is also found in California, USA, Japan and Asia's east coast.

Although most types of rainbow trout stay in the streams where they were hatched all their lives, some of them migrate to other bodies of water such as lakes while others move out to sea.

The steelhead is one of these seagoing trout. They are spawned in the rivers and streams where they stay for a year. They then swim to the sea as smolts and live 2-3 years there until they mature. As adults, they will return to the rivers were they began life. Canadian steelheads can be pretty impressive, weighing up to 20 lbs. when mature.

Fishing for the steelhead
In Canada, the steelhead can be found in many of this country's numerous rivers and streams. Fishing for the steelhead isn't for beginners with little experience because it requires both patience and some skills. Fishing for the steelhead in Canada also means catching the fish during the colder months starting August until December, although they can also be caught until April. In some areas with heavy snows, fishing for the steelhead can be a very challenging adventure indeed.

Two of the most popular ways to catch the steelhead is through fly fishing and/or drift fishing using pink worms and roe. Certain areas in Canada also limit the number of steelheads you can catch. For example, some areas will only allow one catch from a hatchery per day and only two in the possession of the fisherman, with a maximum of only 10 steelheads per year. Any wild steelhead caught must also be released.

Advantages of fishing for steelhead in Canada
Probably the best reason for fishing for steelheads in Canada is the fact that many resorts and outfitters are available to assist and advice visitors. Equipment is also readily available and there are countless locations where fishing may be done. Furthermore, there is an added benefit of having plenty of other activities to do and scenic beauty to enjoy.

Companies Offering Fly-In Fishing in Canada

2008-02-11T05:04:00.000-08:00

Some of the best locations for fishing in Canada are found in secluded areas, which usually limit the type of transportation that can get through. This is why fly-in fishing is common in many of these fishing resorts and lodges. Most fly-in fishing trips offered in Canada come complete with packages that include tours, accommodations and transportation. Check out these companies offering these services:

Oak Lake Lodge (www.oaklakelodge.com)
Oak Lake Lodge operates in the northwest area of Ontario, Canada, about 200 miles to the north of the Canadian-US border. The locations of its fly-in fishing outposts are delightfully secluded but they are by no means difficult to find. Common fish species found in their lakes include the northern pike, lake trout, walleye and smallmouth bass.

If you check in at Oak Lake Lodge, you and your companions pretty much have a lake all to yourselves. Oak Lake Lodge employees will usually fly in to check on their guests every two days, bringing necessary supplies.

Wolves' Den
Located in the beautiful Norse Lake, Wolves' Den offers fly-in fishing with a stunning backdrop. Norse Lake maintains a calm surface even on really windy days. Some fish species you'll find here are smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye. Trophy-size walleyes can reach up to 10 lbs. in weight and 40 inches in length, while average-size fish can weigh up to 3 lbs. Smallmouth bass can reach up to 5 lbs.

All fishing packages with Wolves' Den include a conservation fishing license. If preferred, guests can also extend their fishing to the nearby Little Norse Lake. Catch and release methods are used to manage all remote lakes.

Nestor Falls
Another company that offers fly-in fishing in Canada is Nestor Falls. They employ a fleet of well-maintained aircrafts including Beech, DeHavilland and Cessna planes. One-day fly-in fishing is done on local lakes. As one of the guests, you will be flown in the morning and have all day to fish for northern pike, lake trout and walleye.

Aside from fly-in fishing services, Nestor Falls also offers sightseeing tours on their float planes, showing guests a great view of the Canadian Shield.

Tukto Lodge
If you prefer a Canadian Arctic fly-in fishing trip, try the Tukto Lodge. Bring home your very own trophy grayling or trout, which can weigh over 10 lbs. Tukto Lodge offers different sets of rapids, which is perfect for fly fishing and angling. Furthermore, you get to enjoy the unmatched beauty of the Arctic, where there are still lakes and rivers that have remained untouched.

Going Fishing? Learn About Canada's Fishing Regulations

2008-02-11T05:03:00.000-08:00

Fishing is a significant contributor to Canada's economy, with fishermen required to obtain a license in order to practice their trade. In recreational fishing, which is also a part of local tourism, certain regulations are in place, mainly to regulate and safeguard the marine ecosystems of that area.

Fishing regulations in Canada vary slightly by province or region and these are legislated by the Territorial and Provincial governments. If you wish to go on a fishing trip, you might want to check with the local government or with your outfitter what regulations you must comply with and which permits you should obtain.

A few examples of fishing regulations in Canada include:

Fishing license
A fishing license is required for people over the age of 18 but under 65 years old. This license may be purchased from stores, outfitters and fishing camps. The cost varies, depending on the license.

A regular fishing license doesn't limit how many fish you catch on a daily basis, although it places a restriction on the allowable size of certain fish species. A conservation license restricts the catch you can have per day but it costs less than the regular license. A conservation license also imposes size limits on a number of fish species.

Timing
In some areas in Canada, such as Alberta, sport fishing is allowed regardless of the season although certain restrictions are imposed for certain bodies of water and FMZs or Fish Management Zones. Again, check with your local agency or outfitter regarding this.

Fish species
There are numerous fish species found in the waters of Canada, but fishing regulations limit the type of species that can be caught. For example, out of 5 fish caught which are a combination of Arctic grayling and trout, only 1 of them may be a golden trout, 3 a lake trout, 2 an Artic grayling and none of the catch should be a bull trout. Certain regulations and limits also cover other fish species.

Fishing
It is illegal to use devices that can cause electrical currents or explosions in the water, or those that can kill or stun fish. Unless they have been caught legally and are located near the area where they were caught, you also cannot hold or own live bait and game fish.

Exporting your fish
Some areas, such as those in Ontario, will allow you to take your catch outside the region. However, certain Canadian fishing regulations cover the number of fish you can export and their allowable size. Fish must also be identifiable, which means you will have to leave some scales on if you are going to fillet your catch.

Fishing Outfitters in Canada

2008-02-11T05:02:00.001-08:00

If you're on a fishing trip, it will be a lot easier with the help of fishing outfitters. These companies can offer assistance, guidance, advice and accommodations, allowing you the freedom to simply focus on your fishing and enjoy yourself. Here are some of the fishing outfitters you can get in touch with in Canada:

George Lake Camp Outfitting
This outfitter is located near La Ronge in Saskatchewan on George Lake. There are 4,000 acres of crystal clear George Lake waters to enjoy and plenty of fish to catch, including lake trout, whitefish and northern pike. If you prefer, you can also hire one of their local guides for a small fee. The outfitter rents out several 14 footer aluminum fishing boats so you can venture out on your own in search of fish.

The camp itself is in a beautiful location and can only be accessed using a float plane. The camp offers lakefront accommodations complete with sandy beaches. If you like a more secluded and private fishing getaway, this is the outfitter you should get in touch with.

Victoria Outfitters
This outfitter is found in Millertown, the area well-known for its wildlife. This company offers complete outfitting services involving all sorts of wildlife including local fish. It also offers wilderness tours and accommodations.

Thunderhook Fly In Fishing Camp
Thunderhook is also another outfitter that offers a fishing adventure in a secluded, more private area in northern Ontario. It is a location that is perfect for catching walleye, although it is also common to encounter other species of fish here.

Snowfari Adventures Ice Fishing
If you prefer ice fishing, Snowfari Adventures is an outfitter that offers plenty of adventure and convenience for its guests. Private bungalows can accommodate up to 10 guests per unit. It offers complete amenities, perfect for weekends or even prolonged stays.

Timberlane Cottage Resort
Timberlane is located next to Marian Lake. This outfitter offers guided Back Lake fishing. Some of its most common fish species include perch, bass, northern pike and walleye.

Midnorth Outpost Camps
Midnorth is a fishing outfitter in Chapleau, Ontario. Another location that can be accessed only by a float plane, Midnorth's lake cabins allow plenty of privacy. Fish species include pike, lake trout, white fish, bass, lunker northern pike and walleye. This outfitter can even arrange for you to fish from a private lake if your preferred fish species is unavailable at your current location.

To search for Canadian fishing outfitters near your area, check out sites like www.lodgescanada.ca, www.canadafishingguides.com and www.canadaoutfitters.com. Some of these sites may offer links to outfitter sites so you can check location, maps, fees and accommodation packages.

Fishing Opportunities in Wawa, Canada

2008-02-08T00:07:00.001-08:00

One of the best regions to go on a fishing trip to is Wawa, just under 150 miles to the north of Sault Sainte Marie if you take Trans-Canada Highway 17. There are numerous fishing resorts and outfitters in Wawa, each one offering different scenic locations.

Wawa is located in Northern Ontario, a community in Michipicoten in Canada's Algoma District. The name Wawa is the Ojibwe word that means 'wild goose' (wewe). Wawa can be found along Highway 101, east of the Highway 17 junction. It is the location of Lake Superior's Provincial Park. Although it is more known for its fur trade and mining, Wawa is also an excellent place to go fishing.

Wawa has numerous areas that are excellent for secluded fishing and canoeing. Its ecological diversity is one of the most abundant and overlooked. The largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior, offers plenty of fishing activities with numerous fish species in this area.

Fishing in Wawa can also get you a prized catch. Fish are plentiful in this part of Canada, including 30-lb. brown trout, 40-lb. salmon and 10-lb. brook trout. Other fish species include muskie, panfish, smallmouth bass, largemouth, northern pike and walleye.

Some outfitters and resorts offering fishing trips and accommodations in Wawa include:

Camp Angiami
Camp Angiami is located in Lake Anjigami, offering 7 miles of fishing opportunities for visitors. The surrounding environment is also a rich ground for exploration, where you can find an excellent variety of wildlife and vegetation. Camp Angiami has five outposts, with five camps accessible only by float plane.

Camp Kinniwabi
The accommodations at Camp Kinniwabi come complete with facilities and can house a maximum of 6 guests per cabin. This camp isn't located on any lake but its proximity to areas of great views and fishing opportunities make it an enjoyable location for great fishing in Wawa, Canada. Camp Kinniwabi can set up visitors at over 14 lakes set in the wilderness.

Normandy Lodge
Normandy Lodge offers fishing packages to fit all types of budget. Aside from accommodations, it also rents out canoes and 14-footer aluminum boats. Its fishing is focused in the highly productive and beautiful Kabenung Lake. Fish species include lake trout, perch and brook trout. Fishing licenses can be purchased from the camp itself.

Fishing Derby
Wawa also hosts its annual Ice Fishing Derby, usually held during the first quarter of the year. This derby awards prizes for top catch in several categories, including Whitefish and Lake Trout.

Abundant Brook Trout Fishing in Canada

2008-02-08T00:06:00.000-08:00

Brook trout is found in nearly all the Great Lakes of Canada and in many of its fresh waters. It is also a popular game fish for many hobbyists because it is plentiful and, compared to other game fish, it is rather easy to catch.

Knowing the fish
Brook trout is a type of trout referred to as chars. They are usually smaller in size than other trout. Brook trout is native to the southeastern part of Canada. Thanks to their attractiveness as game fish, they were later introduced to other regions. These days, they can be found in freshwater streams and lakes not only in North America but also in many areas in Europe.

Most brook trout prefer to live out their days in the streams and lakes where they were spawned, but there are some that migrate from streams and lakes to spend a year or two at sea. They then return home to spawn.

Fishing for brook trout
Regardless of whether you're fishing for brook trout in Canada or elsewhere, catching this fish requires skill. True, brook trout are easier to catch than other game fish but in order to make your fishing trip worthwhile, you should learn certain things about the fish.

Preferred environments
Brook trout fishing in Canada is a lot easier to do if you know what types of habitats these species prefer. Springs that flow out to trout streams are excellent locations. Since brook trout like to feed on local land and aquatic insects such as mayflies and stone flies, they are also likely to be found in coldwater streams. Upstream are also a favorite among brook trout, with many anglers having success by simply fishing while walking upstream.

Most brook trout anglers throw their lines in an area where a stream becomes a pool because this is an area frequented by brook trout. This is where they catch food that often drift down the stream Brook trout are also found in the area near underwater streams and inlets where water is cooler. Fly fishing for brook trout can be performed using sinking nymphs, dry flies and wet flies.

A great thing about brook trout fishing in Canada is that it doesn't require complicated equipment. In fact, as a fishing activity, it is considered as the simplest form. It is no wonder then that brook trout fishing has become one of the most popular things to do in appreciation of the natural beauty and abundance of Canada.

Why Canada? Four Benefits of Fishing in Canada

2008-02-08T00:04:00.000-08:00

Canada has the largest system of fresh waters in the world, covering nearly 7% of its land mass. Its continuous coastline is also the longest at over 240,000 km. Canada is also a country that has strict conservation rules about its marine environment, making it a favorite fishing destination for both locals and tourists. Some benefits of fishing in Canada include:

Location
Canada is known for its scenic beauty and the diversity of its geography, ecological systems and even climates. It is a large country, second only to Russia and its natural abundance is a rich mine of raw resources, including of course, fish.

Due to its size, Canada has more land than people so it has plenty of locations that are perfect for fishing. In fact, there are hundreds of fishing clubs, lodges and outfitters that offer their services to both locals and tourists. Ontario alone offers four regions with over 400,000 rivers, streams and lakes that fishing hobbyists and enthusiasts can explore.

Choice
Canada has the largest number of rivers, lakes and other inland waters. There are some species of fish that are more plentiful in some areas while other areas sometimes ban the fishing of other species. But with so many fishing locations to choose from, it's impossible not to find the perfect spot for a day or two of angling or fly fishing.

Fishing trips are also commonly organized by Canadian clubs and resorts, so locals and visitors have a choice whether they prefer a chartered boat or a simple drive-in for their fishing trip. In some areas, fishing is also allowed regardless of the season although certain restrictions apply on some species.

Bounty
Canada has minimal fishing pressure and pollution levels are kept low, so fish is plentiful. The country's waters are also filled with numerous species of fish, including halibut, trout, salmon, pike, sturgeon, arctic grayling, steelhead and walleye, among others.

Conservation and preservation
Another benefit of fishing in Canada is its clear, safe waters. Conservation efforts are active in this country and are practiced not only by recreational and commercial fishermen but also by its many fishing clubs, outfitters and those involved in its tourism industry.

Fishing licenses are required for those who wish to share in the bounty of its waters and certain regulations are implemented to ensure that certain species are protected in specific areas at certain times of the year. Restrictions are also in place regarding harmful fishing practices. These efforts ensure that Canada's waters remain healthy and that the benefits of fishing in this country will be experienced by generations more to come.

7 Steps To Your First Thrilling Salmon Fishing Adventure

2007-07-03T00:34:00.000-07:00

7 Steps To Your First Thrilling Salmon Fishing Adventure

Your First Pole:
The most important piece of equipment is a fishing pole of course! The best place to purchase a pole is at a real pro shop or bait and tackle shop. Pro shops usually have a generous return policy. If you get a pole that is not comfortable for you, too stiff or too flexible, too long or too short, they will generally exchange it for a pole that will work better for you.

Bottom line, they want your return business for other things like bait and tackle.

The Place:
The best place to fish for salmon is in the river when they come up to spawn. The local pro shop should be happy to provide you with the best times for fishing salmon.

Salmon spawn at different times and come up the rivers at different intervals throughout the season. So, planning is important if you want to actually fish when the salmon are spawning.

The Boat:
Best case scenario is to have a flat bottom river boat, but those are expensive. It may not be a good idea to take a regular "V" hull lake boat into the river because the depths can be too shallow and unpredictable.

Another wonderful way to experience your first salmon trip is by hiring a guide. You'll learn more from the guide then on your own. It can be pricey, but it's worth it.

No boat? No worries. Fishing from shore is a wonderful way to experience this fantastic hobby as well.

The Bait:
Ask the Pro's at the pro shop what works best in your area or the area you are going to fish. They will most likely suggest salmon eggs. They are cured in many different ways and everyone has their favorite.

You may wonder why you would want to use salmon eggs. It's very simply really. After salmon spawn, the parent fish stay around the nest to protect the eggs from predators like trout.
The currents will also carry the eggs away. When this happens the parent fish gently pick the eggs in their mouth and bring them back to the nest. So, when you dangle salmon eggs in the water after the salmon have spawned, they will see the eggs and assume that some have floated out of the nest. When they go to retrieve them, they get hooked!

The Catch:
Take along an ice chest filled with ice to keep your catch fresh. You may want to have a couple of five gallon buckets as well. One bucket for cleaning your catch. Another bucket to keep the ready-to-eat gutted and cleaned salmon in.

If you clean it before you take it home, you avoid the smelly bloody mess in your kitchen.

A third bucket could be used to save salmon eggs gutted from a female. You can save the egg sack and cure it later. You can learn more about how to cure the eggs, or roe, online or talk to someone in your local pro shop for suggestions.

The Filleting:
You can cut your fish in two ways, steaks or fillets. Salmon steaks are the easiest way to cut them up. Filleting takes a little more practice. You will probably mangle the first few you try to fillet. Don't let that bother you. All those little mangled pieces can be smoked and turned into a salmon dip. Mmm good!

The Cooking:
There are many ways to cook salmon. Pan fry, BBQ, roasted or even smoked. If you do decide to smoke your salmon pieces, be sure not to over dry them.

Here's a simple recipe for salmon dip.

One cup smoked salmon
Two 8 oz packages of cream cheese
Half cup chopped onion
Salt, pepper, garlic, to taste

Now it's time to stop reading about it and go out there and catch some salmon!

The Elusive Redfish – Pride of the Oyster Bars

2007-07-03T00:33:00.000-07:00

The Elusive Redfish – Pride of the Oyster Bars

If you like sport fishing, you surely will like to fish for redfish. This feisty species is one of the best fighters in the inshore spectrum and, cooked correctly, a great addition to the barbeque menu. Even some restaurants have adopted the fish as a specialty. For example, at the famous Redfish Seafood Grill and Bar on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, they headline, “At Redfish, we serve up a parade of award-winning French Quarter specialties, including classics like Blackened Redfish, Crawfish Etouffee and Jambalaya.”

Young redfish, or red drum as they are often called, feed in the shallows on clams, crabs, mussels and shrimp. When the fish are about four years old and about 30 inches in length, they leave the shallows to join the near offshore populations. A 30 inch specimen will weigh around ten pounds. They can live for twenty years and have attained weights up to sixty pounds (Florida record fifty one pounds eight ounces).

The fish gets its common name from the copper bronze large scales on their bodies which are darker in cloudy water and lighter in clear waters but the most distinguishing feature is a dark spot at the top of the base of the tail. For the fisherman, however, the most recognizable feature is the tail disturbing the water in the calm shallows and frequently breaking the surface. The sight of a dozen or more redfish “tailing” as this foraging behavior is called is enough to set the adrenaline coursing through the veins of the most hardened sportsman.

Catching redfish is like all fishing. You just have to be in the right place at the right time with the right bait and tackle. Use a light medium action rod because you could end up doing a lot of casting before you finally lure your trophy specimen onto the hook, and use the lightest line you feel comfortable with. Just remember to set the drag accurately (the pro’s will actually use a scale and set it to sixty percent of nominal breaking strain).

The right time is easy, fish the feeding grounds on the flats and oyster bars on the rising tide and till just after the tide turns and fish the hiding places in the troughs and sloughs on the ebb. The most reliable spots are on the edge of the mangroves close to deep water. This gives the combination of a great feeding spot with an easy escape route when threatened.

As far as bait is concerned, if you are fishing for the pan, use live bait. Greenbacks, pinfish, or even a succulent shrimp will certainly catch more fish than any lure, but for sport and satisfaction nothing can beat the feeling of hooking that twenty five inch express train on a little gold spoon or shiny plug. Toss your bait or lure as close to the mangroves as you dare, let it sink for a few seconds, then retrieve slowly. When the strike comes, you will know all about it, and the fish will do all the work of setting the hook. Your job will be to get the fish away from the mangroves and then to enjoy the fight of your life. This is when the challenge of light tackle fishing will tax your skill and fill your psyche with pride.

Happy fishing, and look out for the recipe coming soon! Just remember, if you are not going to eat the fish, release it unharmed. Always respect your local fishing regulations.

What a Fish Finder Can Do For You!

2007-07-03T00:32:00.000-07:00

What a Fish Finder Can Do For You!

Have you ever spent hour after unproductive hour fishing on a lake with nothing to show for it? I doubt there's a serious angler anywhere who hasn't had that happen to them. So, if you can relate to that, this article about the advantages of a fish finder might be just what you need.

Fish finders utilize sonar. These devices use sound waves to detect the bottom of the lake, calculate the depth, and will also detect anything between the surface and the bottom, such as fish. This technology gives the angler a huge advantage by letting you know right away whether or not there are any fish present.

Fish finders have become increasingly more sophisticated in recent years. Early fish finders simply flashed to indicate the presence of fish. But, today, with improved electronics, you can get things such as LCD's with a wide variety of LCD types and resolution. The best fish finders today are similar to watching a color display of the water you're fishing in and show everything with great clarity.

Fish finders vary widely in price and, like everything else, you get what you pay for. Larger units with more features will cost more. Generally, units with higher resolution will cost more than those with lower resolution. Higher resolution will give you greater detail as to what is in the water.

Many of the most popular fish finders are wrist-mounted devices and are worn just like a wrist watch. They will only have basic functions but are very mobile and easy to use. Other fish finders utilize large displays and can be mounted to your boat.

Fish finders can be found for as little as $100 and as high as several thousand dollars. There are many brands available with a wide variety of features, so it pays to do your research before you buy. You can check locally or do what most people are doing nowadays... check them out online. It faster and easier.

You can also find fish finders that include a Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS technology is great for anglers as it provides accurate information about your location. This will help you to return to that great fishing spot with ease. All you have to do is simply record the GPS coordinates of any location and you can easily find it again. The accuracy of GPS is about 9 feet so that should be good enough to find those fish again.

And one of the best benefits of GPS is the safety factor. You will never get lost as you can program your starting point and then easily find your way home... even on the largest of lakes and even in dense fog. Don't underestimate the importance of this feature.

So, having a fish finder is a great way to increase your catch each time out. It will tell you where the fish are (and are not), give you depth information, and return you to your favorite fishing hole. And, with GPS, it will get you back home easily and safely. Do your research online and find the best fish finder to suit your needs and budget. You won't regret it.

Choosing a Fly Line for Your Fishing Rod

2007-07-03T00:31:00.000-07:00

Choosing a Fly Line for Your Fishing Rod

Choosing the right fly line for your fishing rod is critical for success. Fly rods are rated for a given line - or more usually two lines.

Normally the line rating is written somewhere on the butt of the rod, usually as two numbers separated by a / mark. E.g. 3/4 or 7/8. These two figures represent the manufacturers suggested fly line rating. The first figure is for a Double Taper line and the second for a Weight Forward line.

For those who do not know, a double taper line is one where the thickest part of the line is in the middle of its length and the line then tapers away equally towards the two ends.

A weight forward line has a different profile. As the name suggests most the weight of the line, the thickest part, is concentrated at the front end. Behind this section is a long thin section of equal diameter line known as the running line.

The difference between these two profiles reflects the way the lines are used.

A double taper line is used when shorter casts are required, usually on rivers and streams. In these conditions you are often casting to fish high in the water or rising. Because of the slower taper on a double taper line it is easier to cast more delicately and avoid scaring the fish.

One other great advantage of the double taper line is that the taper is the same whichever end you use. So if you damage one end of the line you can turn it round and use the other end.

Fortunately the manufacturers do not charge extra for this - yet!

Weight forward lines are better for fishing the wider rivers and lakes where longer casting may be required. Because the weight of the line is concentrated in the front end the rod loads quicker. This makes it easier to build up line speed and momentum which helps to shoot line on the delivery, making for longer casts. This type of line is also better able to cast into or across awkward winds.

The main disadvantage of these types of line is that because more of the weight is concentrated in the front end, there is a much steeper taper to the line end. So these lines tend to land more heavily on the water. This makes delicate presentation more difficult.

The other disadvantage of weight forward lines are that there is a definite right and a wrong way to put the line on the reel. The thin running line has to go on first so that the heavier forward end comes off the reel first.

Get the line the wrong way round and you will find it almost impossible to cast.

While it is always best for beginners to stay with the manufacturers’ recommendation for line rating, modern rods are far more adaptable at handling different lines than older rods.

Apart from anything else the more experienced fly fisher develops a feel for when the rod is correctly loaded and can adjust his casting to suit heavier or lighter lines than recommended.

Hopefully, these guidelines help you to understand and choose the right fly line for your rod and your fishing.

Choosing a Fly Line for Your Fishing Rod

2007-07-03T00:30:00.000-07:00

The summer is coming, so lets go fish Vilano Beach!

2007-07-03T00:29:00.000-07:00

The summer is coming, so lets go fish Vilano Beach!

The summer is a testing time for fishing the beach! The weather is never predictable, the beach even less so. No reason to give up! Just because it is difficult is no reason to default. In fact, the more difficult it is, the more rewarding it will be.

So let us begin. Where does one fish? "The beach" you say. Ok, which 50 yards of the 25 miles of beach between St Augustine Inlet and the St Johns River do you want to fish?

Yep, the secret of fishing the beach is not in the fishing, it is in the walking! Walking the beach at low tide, finding out the lie of the sea bottom is the most important step in the fishing process. This is good, because it gives us the credibility to call fishing a sport and not just a recreation!

So what are we looking for during the low tide walk? Just watch the waves. Usually what you see are the waves breaking a few yards out, then the resultant foamy waves reform and rebreak closer to the shore. Where it first breaks is a sand bar, where it reforms is a slough (pronounced slew}. If you were to walk out from the beach you would first struggle through the deeper water of the slough then climb up onto the bar where the water can be only inches deep.

So once you have identified the sandbars, the big break is finding the gaps in the sandbar, the spots where the fish will find the deeper water and follow the rising tide into the sloughs. You find these when the waves do not break out at the bar but roll all the way in to the beach. When you find it, mark it carefully with a beach landmark. It is incredible how different it will look at high tide! Once you identify the gap, plan to fish in the gap itself and just inside the sandbar on either side of the gap.

Ok! We are halfway there with the where, now what about the when? My experience is the two hours before and after first and last light are the most consistent fishing of the day, while the two hours before and two hours after high tide are the most productive choice of tide. So, put the two together, you get an early morning high tide (that also means an evening high in most places) as the best time.

(If you are planning your vacation, how do you know when the tides will be? Actually, it's not that difficult, early morning and evening high tides will normally follow the full and new moons, and every calendar has those dates marked!)

In the three months of summer you will find whiting, pompano, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, kingfish, trout, flounder, redfish, and drum. You will also find shark, skate, catfish and crabs. It will be a race who will get your bait first, but whichever wins, it will be fun, and you will be the final winner! Get out there and fish.

Beginning Inshore Saltwater Fishing

2007-07-03T00:26:00.000-07:00

Beginning Inshore Saltwater Fishing

Saltwater fishing varies a great deal from freshwater fishing. For starters you must have significantly stronger and heavier tackle and equipment than that used by most freshwater fishermen.

There are several categories of saltwater fishing discussed in this article.

First, there is the light-medium category which would include fishing for species such as Spotted Sea Trout and smaller Snook and Redfish. These fish and others in this category are typically caught in bays and other similar estuaries. Also in this category would be inshore fish such as the Pompano. If you are fishing for these species to eat them, be aware that in the summer months trout and redfish will usually contain worms.

A spinning reel in the class of a Penn 710 or 712, or 4500ss spooled with a good quality 10 pound test monofilament line is a good choice here along with light to medium action rod. Penn makes good quality reels that will hold up to the harsh saltwater fishing environment.

For terminal tackle you will first want to tie a shock leader of about 18 inches using 20 pound test line or fluorocarbon. Fluorocarbon is a little more expensive but is less visible to the fish. Attach the leader tying line to line or use a saltwater rated barrel swivel. For the hook you will want to go with a 6/0, preferably an Eagle Claw.

Another category of saltwater fishing is the medium to heavy category for species such as Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and smaller Jacks. These fish are generally found in the nearshore regions of the Gulf of Mexico and on the Lower East Coast. Smaller "schoolie" King Mackerel under the legal size limit of 24" could be in this class as well.

Be sure to consult a saltwater species book for telling the difference between the juvenile Kingfish and large Spanish. They look very similar. The easiest way to tell the difference is that the Spanish Mackerel will have a "black flag", referring to the anterior portion of its dorsal fin where the King Mackerel, with the exception of very young fish, does not. Another more reliable way to tell is by looking at the lateral line that runs down the body. In a Spanish Mackerel this line drops gradually behind the pectoral fin whereas in the King Mackerel the line drops off sharply.

Equip yourself with a Penn 704 or similar size to be on the safe side spooled with 12-15 lb test coupled with a thin wire leader of 20lb test or so. Check your local fishing regulations for the appropriate hook, in Florida a small treble like a 2/0 is used.

Enjoy your fishing trip. With the inshore net bans these species have come back abundantly and you are all but guaranteed to find some. Just remember, Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, and King Mackerel are migratory so you will have to check the seasonal availability for these fish.

Good luck and tight lines!

Do You Really Need a Guide on Your Fishing Trip?

2007-07-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

Do You Really Need a Guide on Your Fishing Trip?

"Do I really need a guide?" is one of the most frequently asked questions from anglers going on their first fishing trip to a remote lake. It's impossible to accurately answer that question with a "yes" or a "no", but we can give you the information you need to know to answer the question yourself.

Guides can frequently be worth having as long as you know just exactly what you're getting.

For example, hiring a guide is no guarantee that you're going to catch a ton of trophy fish. The guide will take you to the places known to have fish, but catching them is still up to you.

If you don't know what you're doing, the guide can only help you so much. But, that said, if that's the case, a guide may be well worth it to you.

Since you will be arriving at a lake you've never been on before, and you only have a few days to catch fish... a guide can really be a big help. Without a guide, you could spend several days just trying to find out where the fish are.

Also, keep in mind that most guides are great anglers themselves. They spend all spring and summer on the lake and surely know what works and what doesn't.

Here are some things to discuss with any potential guide to give you a feel for whether or not you might want to hire him:

-The type of fish you want to catch
-Whether you're looking to catch lots of fish, or just trophy sized fish
-Has the guide ever fished for the species you're after?
-What technique will the guide expect you to use?

This is what you'll typically get when you hire a guide:

-Expert advice on the best locations to fish
-Expert tips on how to best catch your fish
-A deftly prepared, delicious shore lunch

You must decide if the above is worth paying the price for a guide.

But another option to consider is that you can hire a guide for just a day or two (be up front about this) and then use his (or her) advice on what to do the rest of your fishing trip. This will save you some money and still get you that expert advice you're looking for.

Now, if you're going on a fly-in fishing trip to a lake that you know (from your research and talking to others) is chock full of fish... you probably don't need a guide! There, I even answered your original question for you.

That's because many of the remote lakes have so many fish that even a beginner couldn't help catching all they want.

How much does a guide cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per day plus a tip of around $25 per person.

So, it simply becomes a matter of how much help a guide can be to you, and whether you're willing to pay for the service.

There, now you can decide if you want to hire a fishing guide.

Fly Fishing Terminology: Learn to Speak the Language

2007-07-03T00:24:00.000-07:00

Fly Fishing Terminology: Learn to Speak the Language

So you have decided to give fly-fishing a try. Of course you don't want to go out there and sound like a rookie, do you? Good thinking, since experienced fly fisherman can spot a newcomer a mile away. That's usually because a beginner doesn't know or understand that fly-fishing has a terminology all its own.

For instance, when you do any other type of fishing you use bait. When you are fly-fishing you use a "fly". Here is a list to help you with the basic terms that you will encounter in the sport.

Action-In other types of fishing when you ask about the action you are asking if the fish are biting. In fly-fishing "action" is the term used to describe the pace on a cast line of a particular rod.

Affluent-If someone is referring to affluent they are not talking about someone's wealth. They are talking about a stream of water that eventually leads to a larger body of water.

Frankenfly-This is the term usually doled out to the first fly you try to tie by yourself. It's really a play on words, but not a real good one, Frankenstein, frankenfly, get it?

Riffle-This refers to a good fishing spot that has very rapid moving water over something solid, usually rocks.

Dead water-This term refers to a body of water that has little or no current. This is a useless spot for a fly fisherman to try to catch a fish.

Bobbin-The word was taken from sewing terminology. The bobbin holds the tying thread.

Tinsel-This is just like Christmas decoration. It is a thin piece of silver, gold, or brass colored ribbon. It is used to make your fly shinier so, hopefully, you will attract more fish.

When referring to flies, there are five main categories: nymph, dry fly, wet fly, terrestrial, and stream fly, so make sure you refer to them correctly.

Here is what they are.

Nymph-This lure is made to look like an insect larva.

Dry fly-This fly mimics an insect floating on top of the water.

Wet fly-This fly swims just under the surface of the water.

Terrestrial-Here you want to imitate a flying insect that has fallen into the water and has drowned.

Stream fly-This fly is an attempt to mimic a hurt bait fish that would normally be in the stream you are fishing in.

Now that you can at least understand what fly fishermen are talking about you should take the next step and get yourself set up with a great fly-fishing rod and reel and all of the other gear you'll need.

The selection is huge with many different options to choose from. A good recommendation is that you get some help from someone that knows the sport and the requirements for the area that you plan to fish.

There you are, you have the language down. You've bought your gear, now get out there and enjoy the fly-fishing experience with out being singled out as the rookie.

Learning the Lakes - Bass Fishing in New Water

2007-07-03T00:22:00.000-07:00

Learning the Lakes - Bass Fishing in New Water

For thousands of bass fishing enthusiasts the thrill of discovering a great location for catching fish can almost equal the thrill of catching one. If you are new to bass fishing or if you are planning to fish in a new location, you will find more success with this simple plan to find the best fishing wherever you go!

STEP ONE:

Research the lake. Whether you're participating in a tournament or just spending the day fishing in a new area nothing can help you find the right spots to fish like doing a little research.

Maps of the area can give you a good start. You may also find information about your location in magazines or websites dedicated to bass fishing. The more you know about the area the better you can plan your day and (hopefully) make the best catches.

STEP TWO:

Get experienced input. Finding an experienced guide to accompany you on your first fishing day on a new body of water can provide you the optimum support for finding the best fishing spots as well as guidance for the best techniques to use in that water.

Seasons and fishing cycles will also affect the fishing and an experienced guide will be familiar with the changes that occur in fishing patterns in that water.

Don't think that you shouldn't use a guide simply because you're an accomplished bass fisher in your own right. Guides who are familiar with the local area can improve your chances for success immensely. However, if you cannot find a guide you can still find good information from local fishing equipment supply stores - although they may be giving the same information to other out-of-town fishers who may crowd the same spots.

If you are preparing for a tournament you will want to have unbiased information lest the guide be in competition with you. Doing your own research and testing the lake before competition is still very important.

STEP THREE:

Know where to look. Learning about your 'quarry' will help you locate the best fishing spots regardless of whether you are familiar with the water or not.

Since bass like to stay close to objects rather than stay in open water you should try angling near rocks, trees or other cover.

Depending on the weather and factors such as feeding times or breeding, your fish may be more or less likely to gravitate to particular areas of the lake. Learning about their habits will help you select the best areas and techniques.

STEP FOUR:

While research, a guide and an understanding of the habits of bass will all help you locate your fish, you should still remain adaptable. Changing lures, weights and areas frequently if the fish are not biting will provide you with hands on research that will build with your experience.

Fish will not all be in the same place doing the same thing so be patient and enjoy the search while planning for the best catch yet!

2007-07-03T00:21:00.000-07:00

Factors for Successful Bass Fishing

Bass fishing is a very sought after sport in the United States and many other countries like Australia and Canada. Many tournaments are held throughout the year and this has made bass fishing a very lucrative industry.

Although bass is an edible fish, sport anglers do not treat them as food. During a fishing tournament, bass are caught, weighted and then release back into the water. If the bass are stressed, they are placed in a holding tank for treatment and then released back into the water right after treatment is completed.

There are many factors that can affect your performance as a professional bass fishing angler. First, you need to understand the biology and behaviour of the bass that you want to catch. Knowing how bass behave in different water and temperature environments, their habitats and many other factors can affect your fishing outcome.

For example, bass fish are pretty sluggish in extremely hot or cold water. They usually do not fight very hard when they are caught. However, they feed and grow rapidly when the temperature is moderate and will put up a hard fight if they are caught.

Bass also prefer to stay in covered areas and usually prey on smaller fish. This should give you an idea of where to look as well as what lures to use when bass fishing.

Besides learning about the bass fish, you need to understand and maximize the use of your fishing equipment. The type of rods, reels, lines and lures to use will depend on the type of bass fish you are expecting to catch. You certainly do not want your equipment to fail at the moment when a fish bites.

In a fishing tournament, you seldom stay in the same spot for a long period of time. If you are not having great result in one spot, you will have to quickly look for another spot to improve your catch. Your ability to read a fishing map quickly and accurately will help in your chance of locating a good fishing location.

A good piece of advice would be to visit the angler supply store near the tournament venue. You can pick up a few useful tips from the store owners on the potential spots for landing a big catch.

Regardless if you are a sport or recreational angler, you need to improve your fishing techniques and knowledge on a regular basis. Always seek out other successful bass fish anglers to exchange ideas and pointers. Most successful anglers love to share their knowledge.

You can also go online to visit bass fishing forums and make new friends. You will likely meet anglers from around the world which will further broaden your bass fishing knowledge.

By taking all the above factors into account, you can make every fishing experience enjoyable and fruitful.

Beginners Guide to Kayak Fishing

2007-07-03T00:19:00.000-07:00

Beginners Guide to Kayak Fishing

Currently one of the most popular fishing trends in the United States (especially on the Gulf Coast) is kayak fishing. Kayak fishing is quite simply fishing from a kayak. Kayak fishing is an alternative to putting on your waders and hopping in the water. One of the top benefits to kayak fishing is that you can fish in areas that you would normally need an expensive boat to access. In fact, most kayaks can get places that even those extra expensive boats can’t. What many people don’t realize is that kayaks only cost a few hundred dollars and they’ll get you to where the fish are!

Before you run down to your local outdoors store and buy yourself a nice new kayak let’s learn a little bit about kayaks. A kayak is simply a small boat that is powered by one or more individuals. Kayaks are also sometimes known as canoes although they are different in history and design. Since we’re focusing primarily on saltwater kayak fishing let’s specifically talk about ocean kayaks.

Ocean kayaks are different from traditional whitewater kayaks because they normally have a longer waterline. Having a longer waterline focuses more upon traveling through the sometimes-rough ocean waters rather then providing the extreme maneuverability that is needed for whitewater kayaking with frequent obstacles like boulders in the water.

Ocean kayaks also often have much larger below-deck cargo areas for easier storage of your fishing gear. Ocean kayaks also generally have rudders for better straight-line tracking and upturned stern or bow profiles for wave shedding. Many new ocean kayaks even provide waterproof storage via internal bulkheads. Unlike traditional one-paddler whitewater kayaks, many ocean kayaks can accommodate two or three paddlers.

Since most ocean kayaks are intended for fishing they are generally wider than most whitewater kayaks. The wider design prevents your new kayak from tipping over while fishing.

When ocean kayak fishing you need to become familiar with the tides where you're fishing. If you find yourself caught up attempting to try to fight a running tide, your return trip will end up taking up every ounce of energy in your body. And don’t forget, your kayak is a very small craft; you need to stay alert as to the other boaters in your area. Don’t forget (especially when you first get started with ocean kayak fishing) you should always wear a floatation device!

If you’re getting lost in all the details, don’t worry, the majority of the places that sell kayaks provide kayak training, generally at no additional cost.

Factors for Successful Bass Fishing

2007-07-03T00:06:00.000-07:00

A Beginners Guide to Fly Fishing

2007-07-03T00:03:00.000-07:00

A Beginners Guide to Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is a great hobby and has lots of benefits outside the actual catching of a fish. In our stress filled lives what better way to relax than to get out in nature and breathe the fresh air and soak up the beauty of the great outdoors? The sound of a running stream alone has a wonderful calming effect and the stress relieving benefits of fly fishing is a great bonus to a challenging and fun hobby.

If you're considering taking up fly fishing you will need the proper equipment and also learn how to use it. The main pieces of equipment you'll require to start on your journey to becoming a fly fishing guru are:

1. A Fly Fishing Rod
A proper fly fishing rod weighs somewhere around 5 ounces and is usually about 9 feet in length, although this will depend on how small or large the river is where you intend to use it. Local fishing tackle stores are a great source of free advice on which equipment to use in a particular stream.

2. Fly Fishing Line
The line used for fly fishing is much thicker than normal fishing line as it needs to have enough weight to achieve the whipping action used to move the fly around the surface of the stream.

3. Flies
The artificial fly lures that you use can vary greatly and depend on the species of fish you intend to catch and what insects are most common in the stream. In some cases you will use a fly for working the surface of the water and other times a lure that sinks a little. Once you become more involved in fly fishing it is not too difficult to learn how to make you own fly lures. Catching a nice sized fish using a lure that you have made with your own hands is an extremely rewarding experience too.

Once you have the right equipment you then need to learn how to use it. The idea behind the fly fishing technique is to mimic the behavior of the insects the fish are feeding on. Here is where observing the river is important so you can select a fly lure that looks similar to insects flying around the edges of the stream. You will also need to use an action with the rod that makes to fly mimic what the insects are doing on or below the surface of the water.

As important as knowing how to use the fly fishing equipment and choosing a lure is selecting the best time to fish. This can depend on when the fish are most active which may be different from one stream to the next, however dawn and dusk are usually the best times as the sun isn't bright enough for the fish to see you and the insects that the fish feed on are usually very active.

With a little preparation and learning about the right equipment and how to use it fly fishing can be an exciting and rewarding hobby. Its great appeal is not only the relaxation element of getting out in nature but the excitement of catching a nice fish. Once you land a good sized fish that fights on the end of your line then you'll be hooked on fly fishing for life.

Using the Right Fly Fishing Line

2007-07-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Using the Right Fly Fishing Line

If you want to have a successful fishing trip, it certainly helps to have the right fishing equipment. When it comes to fly fishing, your line is an extremely important part of your tackle. Having the right fly line is critical to casting your line accurately.

A good tip is to buy colored line since it will simply be much easier to see when your line is in the water. Although some anglers are concerned that a colored line will be noticed by the fish, this is really not the case. The fish are only going to see your leader and the fly. So, you don't have to worry about the color of the fly line as far as the fish are concerned and you'll be able to see your line better.

You also need to decide if you want to use a floating line or a sinking line. The advantages of floating lines are:

-Allows you to use dry flies which stay on top of the water
-Casting is easier
-Generally more versatile

Sinking lines are better for deep water fishing, but are harder to recast once the line is in the water.

The shape of the line is also another consideration when choosing your fly fishing line. Fishing conditions will generally be the deciding factor.

Double taper lines are a certain diameter on each end but are wider in the center. They are the simplest to use if you are roll casting.

Another shape is called weight forward. As the name implies, these lines have more weight at the lead part of the line. But, they can be more difficult to cast. However, their main advantage is that they are easier to use if you will be fishing in windy conditions.

Another tip when buying your fly fishing line is to use the rod maker's recommendations. Any given rod is most compatible with a certain weight of fishing line. Now, you can use any weight you want, but it is at your own risk. Generally speaking, you are better off going with what the rod manufacturer has designed the rod for.

Following are some good guidelines for determining the proper weight of fly fishing line for various fishing scenarios:

-Use a 3 to 5 weight line for small streams for small trout or panfish.
-Use a 5 to 7 weight line for fishing medium rivers for trout, bass and most panfish.
-Use a 7 to 9 weight fly line when fishing for big trout, salmon and bass in big rivers and light salt water.
-Use 12 weight line when going for the really big ones.

You should also consider buying fly line backing. There are two reasons for this. The first is it will fill up your fly reel before you get to the actual fly line. This way it won't take so long to reel in your line.

And, secondly, it will allow the fish to run out farther than the line itself. It's not a big deal for fishing for small trout in streams, but you might want it if you're going after much bigger fish like tarpon.

And remember, once you've purchased your fishing line, it's very important to take good care of it. It is especially critical to keep your line clean. Fly lines will pick up dirt and film from the water - so be sure to clean them before putting them away.

Use these tips on choosing the right fly fishing line and you will have many fun and successful days on your favorite lakes and streams going after your favorite fish.

Choosing the Perfect Fishing Trip Destination

2007-07-02T23:58:00.000-07:00

Choosing the Perfect Fishing Trip Destination

One of the first things you must do to plan a great fishing trip is to identify your priorities. You need to be more specific than just saying you want great fishing. Great fishing may mean different things to each person in your fishing party.

One person might be happy with catching 20 fish per day, while another might be expecting 30 fish per hour. So, you need to decide this up front.

Let's take a look at some of the most important things to consider when deciding where to go on your fishing trip.

What type of fish do you want to catch?

While this may seem obvious, it is something that needs to be discussed. One person may want to fish for walleye and northern pike, while others may want to go bass fishing. Since many northern lakes have water too cold for bass, you may end up at a lake that would really disappoint the bass fisherman.

Do you want tons of action? Or trophy fish?

Some anglers simply enjoy catching lots of fish (most any size) with the hope of getting a few big ones. Other fishermen would rather give up catching a large quantity of fish for a better chance at catching the biggest fish they can find. You need to decide which is more important to your fishing group... lots of fish that maybe aren't the biggest or fewer fish but a greater chance of a really big one.

It should be noted that there are many places where you can do both... catch lots of fish and get some big ones. But, these tend to be at the more remote and pricey lodges and are not always feasible for many fishing groups.

How are you going to catch your fish?

Do you like to troll? Or drift? Fish in streams? Deep water fish?

We've seen people trolling in 60 feet of water thinking the fish were only a few feet from the surface. Not much chance of catching anything this way. Be sure you know the type of fishing your group prefers and that the lake will offer it.

What do you want to spend for this fishing trip?

The price you're willing to pay will have a great impact on the type of fishing trip you'll have.

Be realistic. How much do you really want to spend? Are you comfortable in a tent or tar-paper shack on a lake with great fishing?

Or would you prefer staying at a more upscale fishing lodge?

Do you want to cook for yourself... or do you want the fishing camp to do the cooking?

And what about shower facilities? Are you willing to use a community shower or do you want a private shower and bath in your own cabin. Gentlemen, if you're taking your spouse on this trip, make absolutely sure you consider this one! If you don't, it could spoil an otherwise great trip.

Other considerations are how long the trip will be and the type of fish you are looking to catch. A trip to a fishing lodge on a lake with pan fish and bass will likely be much cheaper that a trip to Alaska or Northern Canada for arctic char.

So, if you really want a great fishing trip, start by planning just exactly what you want out of the trip and how much you are willing to spend. Do it right and you can have the fishing trip of a lifetime.

Fly Fishing for Bass

2007-07-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

Fly Fishing for Bass

Bass fishing is one of the most popular pastimes around. The thrill of landing a largemouth bass can be counted as one of the most thrilling activities. Most anglers use simple spinning or casting reels to land the big one. Want a challenge? Try fly-fishing for bass.

Fly-fishing for bass is a technique that will most likely not win you any fishing tournaments. It is a relaxing and challenging means of catching bass, however, it is different from most fly-fishing techniques. Fly-fishing for bass is different from, say, fly fishing for trout in a mountain stream.

The fly rod for fly-fishing for bass is typically heavier than those used for trout. Fly rods for bass fishing are typically 8-weight. This is required by the fact that largemouth bass obviously eat the foods like crayfish and frogs. The fly or popper will be larger as well. The leader for this type of fly fishing will be relatively short, 4-6 feet, with the tippet at around a 8 pound test line. The heavier pound test will be important to get the bass out of the underwater vegetation and obstacles and into open water so you can play the fish off the reel.

The best fly-fishing for bass involves casting your line from the boat towards shore, underneath brush and branches. Techniques that work well involve simply letting the fly rest on the water for a period of time then snap the bug across the water quickly and deliberately to get the attention of the bass. The popping sound and action attracts the bass to strike the lure.

Some of the best fly-fishing for bass is typically in smaller bodies of water. Small county lakes, farm pounds and slow moving creeks are perfect for fly-fishing. Farm ponds are a favorite because you typically can use the shore to cast from and position the lure in good positions around piers or beneath trees. Or you can simply get in a small boat and cast from the boat to the shore where the bass are likely to be swimming.

The thing about fly fishing for bass is that fighting the fish with a fly rod always makes the bass seem larger than it really is. The fly rod magnifies the fight of the fish. A simple two to three pound bass caught with a fly rod will seem like a six pound fish caught on a casting reel.

Fly-fishing is an exciting and fun way to catch bass. Next time you are looking to fish for bass, put aside your worm and casting reel and give fly-fishing a try.

Free Tips About Fishing

2007-06-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

Fishing-Fishing
Learn To Fish: It’s Fun!
What Lures, What Fish?
Vacation tips in fishing
Using a Fishing Rod
5 Useful Tips on Trout Fishing
Fishing in Texas
Fishing in Salt Water
Salmon Fishing
Ontario Fishing Tips
Tips on Lake Fishing for a Great Outdoor Experienc...
Tips on Kayak Fishing
Ice Fishing anyone?
Tips to Know the Types of Fishing Rod to Acquire
Hawaii Fishing Tips
Tips on Fly Fishing
Fishing Trip Tips
Fishing Tips for Beginners
Fishing Tackle Guidelines
The Basic Fishing Supplies
Purpose of Fishing Rod Holders
Fish for Reel
Fish for Reel
Fishing Pole
Fishing with the Right Line
License to Fish
Fishing in USA
Fishing in the South Pacific
Fishing in China
Fishing in Canada
Tips on Finding a Fishing Guide
Some Basic Facts about Fishing Gear
Fishing Game: Nature’s Playground
Things to Know About Fishing Charter
Tips on Buying Fishing Boats
What is Fishing Bait?
The Recreational Value of Fishing
Fishing as Family Activity
Learning how to Fish
Deep Sea Fishing Tips
The Best Way To Cook Your Freshly Caught Fish
Fresh Caught Fish Cooking Preparation
“Fishing Kit Basics”
"Picking The Right Boat"
Catfishing the Right But Simple Way
Basic Carp Fishing Pointers
BEST LURES TO USE IN FISHING
Excellent Fishing Rods for that Perfect Fishing Ex...
BASS FISHING FACTS AND MORE
Tips for Archery Fishing
Tips in fishing for salmons in Alaska
Alaska Fishing Lodge: The Nature’s Abode

Learn To Fish: It’s Fun!

2007-06-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

Learn To Fish: It’s Fun!

Fishing is a fun and tranquil sport that lets you spend quiet time with your friends, family and with Mother Nature.

Fresh water fishing is a sport involving the catching of fish in lakes, rivers and streams. It involves a lot of patience, challenge and a lot of acquired skill over time. Anyone can participate in this fun activity, including the kids.

To start, you have to check your State’s fishing requirements and make sure if a license is needed for you to fish. If it is required, you must acquire one by checking with a sporting goods store. They will help you how to get it, and some will even provide it for you.

During the time that you are in your favorite sporting goods store, you can look around and buy the right fishing equipment that you will be need for your trip. Considering that you are a beginner, make sure that you budget well the cost and your spending on the equipment, not deciding on expensive equipments; buy only the basic things you will need.

When in doubt as to what is needed, ask the help of the store keeper, but do keep in mind that you need to stick to a budget. Take your time and don’t hesitate to ask how to use each piece of equipment that is offered to you. Artificial lures for bait can be used or you can simply look for worms from your back yard.

An inexpensive fishing rod and reel will be enough along with a fishing line, hooks, weights, a bobber (this keeps your line afloat), fishing lures and net. A polarized sunglass is also essential, as it will help to see clearly through the water and lessen the glare.

Then if you don’t know the good locations to fish, ask about local “hot” spots, or check your State’s fishing regulations for information about fishing locations around your State.

The time will surely come when you will be a better fisherman; then you may decide on upgrading your equipment. In the meantime, keep things simple.

It is always advised that you avoid fishing alone. Always be with a friend, as when emergency strikes, there can be someone who can call for help.

It is wise to start fishing in shallow waters. Aim your cast in shady or rocky areas where the water is deep, as this is where the fish is expected to be found. Keep in mind that this is all practice first.

As your skill level develops and increases, you can then attempt into deeper waters. But before going, take the time to practice casting to familiarize yourself with your rod and your reel.

What better place to practice than your back yard. To do so, mark off an area using a rope and use this as your guide in aiming your cast. Rehearse and study your movements to discover a method that will work for you. Bear in mind, cast with your wrist, and not with your arm.

Fishing hooks are very sharp and needed to be handled with care to avoid injury. Before casting, it is important that you should look around you and stay unobstructed to avoid hurting other people with your hook.

When the right time has come and you go fishing for real, keep in mind to cast your line always ahead of the fish, making your bait land slowly, with as little splash as possible. The fish will see well at a close point, but cannot see behind.

If your casts are going in a disorganized manner, move closer to the water so you can gain better accuracy.

Watch the bobber closely for any movement. If and when a fish grabs the bait, the bobber will be pulled under water. This signals that you got a fish on the line. Don’t get too excited. Remain calm.

Keeping your line tight, slowly reel in your catch. Place the net near and use it to bring the fish out. Remove the hook from the fish with great care.

If you got an undersized fish (as noted in the state’s regulation book), quickly return it to the water. Likewise, if you have no intention in eating your catch, do not waste it and return it to the water. Releasing the fish will supply the water with more fish, giving future fishermen the thrill to experience a catch.

Lastly, look around you and feel the calm, restful and serene view of the river.

Have fun!

What Lures, What Fish?

2007-06-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

What Lures, What Fish?

Spoons

Considered the most simple of all other lures, they got their name because they look like the head of a spoon. They act for the bait fish by doing a flickering and wobbling movement or action. Spoons are excellent for starters in lure fishing; easy to use and very affordable.

Spinners

The spinner is basically a blade wherein it does a rotating action on a spindle when being retrieved or taken back through the water as well as it gives off a flash as light is being reflected on the revolving blade, characterizing the bait fish’s scales and movements. This is a lure that is flexible because only can one verify and know the retrieve depth by the period or time frame one leaves before one starts a retrieve, one can also alter the speed of the revolving blade around the spindle, by either speeding up or slowing down one’s retrieve. For the Trout and Mullet, a smaller size is recommended, and a larger spinner with the pike liking, along with the treble hook in a red wool.

Surface lures

These lures are used on the water surface and considered to be the most explosively thrilling of all lures as one could actually see the fish taking the lure, and the anticipation and the expectation of one looking forward of the take is an exciting experience. The fish can be completely seen exiting the water when they send off at a surface lure. Since these lures are being retrieved on the surface of the water, they can be a good choice in areas that have a lot of weed.

Suspending plugs

Having neutral buoyancy and resistance, when the plug has dived or dropped to the required depth and left alone, it will continue on being suspended to that depth. For this reason, this type is perfect for pursuing your prey hidden near the weed beds, rocks or banks. When yanked in order to imitate life to the plug, it causes some crashing attack from your target.

Floating drivers

A necessity for all lure anglers, they cover a wide scope in diving depths; beginning from just beneath the surface up to fifteen feet or more. The diving depth is established on the point of view of the vane or fin to the body of the lure. The lesser the angle to the body of the lure the deeper it can dive. The shape as well as the size of the vane and the lures body contributes to the movement of the plug in the water.

Sinking plugs

These are excellent for deep water fishing, wherein the retrieve can start soon as the preferred depth is reached. This is accomplished by counting down before one starts the retrieval process. Therefore, the same depth will be reached whenever one casts. The distance that the lure has sunk down in a particular time, will give a suggestion of how deep or how far down the fish are situated when they strike; thus this is called the sink rate of the lure.

Soft baits

This is soft rubber bait that comes in various shapes and forms, with matching sizes and colors. These are commonly used for sea and fresh water fishing, which can be used on a weighted jig head handled in the same manner as the jerk bait, being managed as a plug is used.

Jerk baits

Having no movement of its own when in the water, the angler gives life to this lure; whenever the rod trembles or shakes or jerks, this lure can appear to have life. This lure for the most part, mimics an injured or wounded fish that the prey fish find tempting, and be compelled to thrust or lunge at.

Vacation tips in fishing

2007-06-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Vacation tips in fishing

When summer time comes and salmon are starting to run, many people who like fishing visit Alaska. Tourists tend to know when the salmon run starts. This may not be on purpose but they do know the best place to catch salmon is in Alaska.

Alaska’s waters make their tourists get the Alaska fishing guide and provide the tourists the best spots in Alaska for fishing. First, you have to know what kind of fish you want to catch. You can choose from different varieties of fishes like silver salmon, arctic char, steelhead, Alaska king salmon, rainbow trout, or any other fish.

The Arctic, Southwest, South central, Southeast and the interior are the five known geographical places in Alaska. These are the sites where you can maximize your fishing expedition. You have to hire a fishing guide since you do not know the area. They may give the best spots for you and accompany you to your fishing.

Here Are Some Things You May Want To Ask From Your Guide

1. You have to know how long they have been doing their work in Alaska. It is good if they have been staying there for a long time already. The reason is that they have much knowledge about the different yearly cycles of Alaska.

2. Be aware of the time you will spend during the trip. Also, make note of the time that you will need during the actual fishing. The amount that you will pay your guide might only be consumed on the time of the boat ride rather than the fishing itself.

3. Ask how much a particular guide would cost, because they have different rates depending on their skills, experiences and length of stay in their job. A guide that would cost cheaper than the average rate of the other guides might not have enough experience and skills.

4. It is recommended that you have your references. This will help you narrow down your choices in selecting a fishing guide. Most people who have been there are willing to share about how satisfied they were during the fishing vacation. They can also give you some advice on what you need to do during the adventure.

5. Remember, this is a chance for you to ask about particular issues that concern you. Do not hesitate to gather information from your guide. By this time, you should be able to have your final choice for your Alaska fishing guide that will be perfect for your plans and make the most out of your trip in Alaska.

Using a Fishing Rod

2007-06-10T06:55:00.001-07:00

Using a Fishing Rod

Rods are basically made from carbon. Plastic, composite carbon combined with Kevlar, which is a kind of material that is bullet proof, or just high carbon. Since the carbon's force and strength in connection to its mass is light, making it strong material that can allow thinner fabrication but still is able to keep the span and length. A rod that is lighter evidently handling will be easier, controlling it would be less tiring on ones arms and reduces resistance to air giving one an easier time accurately casting it, particularly on windy ways.

Rods come in silicon carbide, hard chrome or ceramic rings having a function of letting the line pass through. These are precisely used because of their smoothness having the function to minimize friction when passing through the line and keep the maximum strength. Silicon materials are a fact costly, so an alternative is bring into play ceramic rings like Zircon which when taken in to account, it is not as tough or as light, but is much cost effective. Rings made of chrome are better, although every season they require replacement, they do deliver excellent job of line running. At least thirteen rings are needed from the handle all through the tip, lesser near the handle, needing more close to the tip. The line can fasten itself to the rod, if you don’t have enough rings.

When determining length of the rod, you want to take into account exactly what kind of fishing you want. If you want far out fishing, in that case choose a larger rod as this will offer you better control when you are playing the fish. If you are planning to go fishing in an area that is enclosed, you will need a shorter rod. Normally, the safe rod size to choose is13ft (3.9m). This is lengthy enough for a waggler but does not cast out too far.

Handles

Handles are made from either cork or foam. Whichever you choose, this is a matter of preference. Just try handling both materials so you can have a good “feel” before buying it.

Action

Action is the term used in describing how the rod will bend when it is placed under the lot of strain and effort of a fighting fish.

There are two types of tip on a rod, the hollow and spliced tips. Hollow tips are good in catching carp, tench and chub which have a progressive or developing action making it sharp for quick bites, yet proficient enough to manage long distance strikes. Spliced tips normally are normally spliced to the end with two feet solid carbon. This rod is sharper so it is a good pick for fast acting fish.

When choosing a rod, these questions will help you pick the right one:

1. How frequent and where do you fish? Are you a beginner, a weekend warrior, or a tournament pro? If you are just starting out, you may need to budget and spend less money on your first rod. Once you learn the techniques and once you have decided that fishing is for you, that is the time to spend on more specific rods.

2. Freshwater or Saltwater fish? While there are a few rods that can be used for both fresh and saltwater fish, most rods are made for a specific purpose and application.

3. Spinning or Casting? The species you that you choose to chase will determine it.

4. Power, sensitivity, and your technique. The rod should match the way you enjoy fishing. If you like to fish with lures, then you should look for a rod that is comfortable enough to cast frequently all day long.

5 Useful Tips on Trout Fishing

2007-06-10T06:54:00.001-07:00

5 Useful Tips on Trout Fishing

In fishing, trout are one of the favorite “fishing friends” of most anglers. These crafty fish are abundant anywhere. The native habitat of these crafty fish depends on the type of trout.

For brook trout, the native habitat includes the territory from Labrador westward to the Saskatchewan, while the rainbow trout is a native of the Pacific slope from Alaska to California.

On the other hand, brown trout has found its way into the waters of every state in the United States except Florida, Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Texas. It has been reported in the waters of some of these states, but according to conservation officials, no authentic reports have been received. It is also found in many parts of Canada.

In trout fishing, there are some factors that need to be considered in order to have a successful catch.

1. For trout fishing, the leader should not be greased. It will not sink far enough to cause any difficulty when picking the line and lure from the water, but if it is allowed to float; it will cast a shadow on the bottom of the stream which may scare the trout.

2. The trout is one of the fishes that are usually secured through the use of the dry fly. For trout, the current as well as the pools should be fished. It may sometimes be a bit difficult to keep the fly from sinking or dragging because of the various conditions of the current, but this is a matter that the angler will have to figure out for himself.

3. It is not good practice when fishing for trout to fish directly upstream so the flies, line, and leader will float directly over fish. The fisherman should make the cast from one side of the stream so the fly will only float over the fish.

4. It is important to make the first cast the best. A feeding trout will usually strike the first lure presented if it is cast so that it will float over his private domain. The angler should never fail to fish the lower end of the pool first even if the trout are rising in the middle or upper end.

5. Trout are sometimes very moody or selective and will try the patience of any angler; hence, possibly a fly with less hackle will do the trick or it may be necessary to use a spent-wing fly or a fan wing.

Indeed, catching trout fishes can be lots of fun. The anglers just have to remember these tips in order to have a happy catch.

Fishing in Texas

2007-06-10T06:47:00.000-07:00

Fishing in Texas

In the state of Texas, 2 licenses are needed. The first is called the Conservation license. This is a prerequisite a person must have before being allowed to obtain a fishing license.

The Conservation license can be obtained from the Fish, Wildlife & Parks or FWP. This is done by giving one’s social security number and other information that is requested. A valid driver’s license or any valid ID with photo must also be presented for security purposes for the license to be processed.

Once that is done, a fishing license can be acquired which is neither non-transferable nor non-refundable and is only valid for one year.

Fish that are normally caught in Texas are flounder, trout and sheepshead.

Here are some tips that will help anyone who wants to go fishing in Texas;

1. The first thing to do is get the right equipment: a good boat, fishing rod, reels and bait.

2. If one is not familiar with the place, it is best to ask the locals where the best fishing ground is then start from there.

3. Hooks can be in different sizes. The right hook for fishing is dependent on the kind of bait that will be used.

4. To prevent injury especially when taking out the fish caught in the hook, it is advisable to do it using wet hands.

5. The primary source of food for Seagulls is fish. If there is a flock in one area it means that place is good for fishing. One should approach quietly and set the bait and just wait for the fish to start coming in.

6. Some fish stray when the water is clear but it is quite difficult since the fish can also see the bait. To be able to catch more fish, the best place to do it is in deep water.

7. It is also advisable to try a variety of bait when fishing. Some fish can easily be caught with one kind while others are not. It takes practice to get it right and patience for the fish to come out and haul it in.

Fishing in Salt Water

2007-06-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

Fishing in Salt Water

There will always be challenges whether one decides to fish either in the river or in the open sea. The important thing to remember is to have patience waiting for the fish and doing your best to catch it when it appears.

To be able to fish, a person needs to get a fishing license since this is a requirement by law and the regulations regarding fishing varies from one state to the other.

The first thing one needs for salt water fishing is a boat. It can range from a simple row boat to a yacht. The size of this vessel depends on how many people will join the trip.

For people who will do it in-shore, a 15 foot sailboat that comes with a cuddy forward to serve as a shelter when it rains should do the job. The boat should not be heavy and yet adequately sturdy to not be swayed by the action of strong waves or some bumps on the beach or on the rocks.

One should always try the edges of the perimeter first instead of plopping bait or lure in the middle. This is because it will scare the other fish away. By going through the sides first, one will have a better chance of catching unsuspecting fish in the middle.

If one decides to go "down below" some time, a cod-line is a necessity for everybody to enjoy saltwater fishing. A perch-line will also be good and if it's time for mackerel fishing, a mackerel jig will be an excellent help.

The right time to start salt water fishing is on the ebb tide. This should be during an early time of the morning to ensure that the trip will be a productive one. This will put the tide in one’s favor and if the wind is light or not fair, this will also help in going home quickly.

The best place to start fishing is going to a fishing ground that is well known to the locals.

Many anglers who are too impatient move from one spot to another which at times make these people miss a hotspot further decreasing the chances of catching fish. It is advisable to cast out a couple of times before moving on using different types of bait. This should be done from the shallowest to the deepest point.

Sharks in the area can disrupt people from catching fish. By pouring some fish blood on a paper towel or newspaper and rolling it into a ball then casting it overboard, sharks will follow the current and leave the area increasing the chances of catching fish.

Salmon Fishing

2007-06-10T06:45:00.001-07:00

Salmon Fishing

General salmon information and fishing tips:

1. Generally, the best times of the day are during the times when there is low light and so too, on cloudy days. On bright and sunny days, salmon will usually collect and assemble deep in the holes.

2. Take note that salmon do not feed while in the river. When they do strike, it is a behavior that is learned. Salmons are known to be predatory and aggressive when in the lake, up until they go into the river.

3. Set the hook by yanking downstream with your rod three times. To get a better set, pulling on the line with your free hand can help. Sometimes, when you lift the rod straight up, it will pull the fly out of the mouth of the salmon.

4. In order for the hook to go through the thick jaws of the salmon, you should always sharpen your hooks.

5. Fishing with a partner can be enjoyable and at the same time help each other to spot a salmon. While one is fishing, the other can be high up on the other side of the bank observing the reaction of the salmon and where exactly they are. Polarized glasses are very helpful when doing this and would bring satisfying results.

6. Finding a good hole where there are many salmon inside and you can fish there for the whole day!

7. Your weight as well as the length of the tippet should be adjusted so that it matches the holes depth and the depth of the fish. Your weight should not drag, but should only touch the bottom every now and then. Note that a tippet that is three feet long will set the fly six inches up to two feet off the bottom.

8. By adding a foam indicator at the top of your fly, you can get your fly higher in the water column.

Fly fishing tips:

Chuck-n-duck is the most familiar and easiest, method in using a fly rod to fish for salmon.

Popular four line formulas for chuck-n-duck:

The River Guide

100+ yards of 30 pounds backing
20 feet of Amnesia line
100 feet of shooting line
3-6 feet of Maxima monofilament (6-8 lb. test)
20 feet of Maxima monofilament (12 lb. test)
Swivels and weight

The Simple Set-Up

100+ yards of 30 pounds backing
10 feet of Maxima monofilament (12 lb. test)
100 feet of shooting line
Swivels and weight
3-4 feet of Maxima monofilament (6-8 lb. test)

The simple and cheap Set-up

100+ yards of 30 lb. backing
100 feet of Amnesia line (15 lb. test)
20 feet of Maxima monofilament (12 lb. test)
Swivels and weight
3-6 feet of Maxima monofilament (6-8 lb. test)

The combo

100+ yards of 30 pounds backing
100 feet of shooting or Amnesia line
3-12 feet of Maxima monofilament (10-20 lb. test)
Swivels and weight
4-10 feet of Maxima monofilament (2-12 lb. test)

Ontario Fishing Tips

2007-06-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

Ontario Fishing Tips

Getting ready

1. If you’re bound for a fishing trip to the North Country, expect to spend much on transportation, your outfit, licenses and permits. For a lot of people, the trip’s highlight will be fishing. For this reason, you should get yourself a new line on your reel.

2. Protect your eyes while fishing and you should only invest in a good quality pair of polarized sunglasses, as it will not only aid in protecting the eyes, but will also provide superior visual penetration into the water.

3. Keep mosquito repellent as well as plastic worms in a separate compartment, making sure it is out of the tackle box as both items do contain lacquer solvent that can soften the paint of any metal, plastic, or wood lure and the soft paint may never harden.

4. Always keep a small file or a small stone handy to be used to keep the hooks needle sharp.

5. Learn how to tie good knots. Practice carefully until such time that you are already certain that they will hold.

General fishing guidelines:

1. Don’t fish with any bait in just one spot for more than 10 casts. If, by those casts, nothing changes, it’s time you change location.

2. Properly position the canoe, not too close or too far from the fish. If you are too close, you will frighten the fish. If you are too far, you can not accurately place the lure in position.

3. When doing top water fishing, do not set the hook until you can really feel that the fish is on the lure, being very careful not to surprise the fish. Just keep on working the lure cautiously towards you.

4. Be very patient. Just be certain that you know you are in a suitable fish-producing area.

5. Always be quiet, as sound can travel through the water better than through the air.

6. Release carefully, instantly and safely any fish that you do not plan to eat. Preservation of Ontario’s fishing resources is essential and needed for fishing to continue thriving.

7. While waiting for your catch, or when you do catch anything or none at all, look at the scene behind you, take a deep breath and enjoy the only lakeland wilderness in the entire world!

Fishing Regulations

Carry your license with you

Residents of Canada should have a fishing-version Outdoors Card and must have a fishing license tag that is attached to it so that it can be considered as valid.

Non Canadian residents should have their basic license form signed and have the correct license tag fastened in order that it can be considered valid.

Keep in mind always that a Outdoors Card or non-resident license card is non-transferable; it grants privileges to you alone. It should be carried with you each time you go fishing.

Note too, that whenever a Conservation Officer requests to see and examine your license, the law requires you to show it.

State and District Regulations

State and District rules control angling in Ontario. The key and major State law with regards to fishing is the Ontario’s “Fisheries Act”; this defends guards and takes care of and save fish and its habitat. Likewise, it controls the fishing seasons, limits to catch, possession, and size, and the gears allowed as well as fish sanctuaries. On the other hand, the “Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act” is the major provincial law that regulates fishing. It is stated in this decree, that fishing licenses are issued.

Wildlife Protection and Preservation Officers

Wildlife Protection Officers have the authority to inspect, search, arrest, and seize under the different act they carry out, together with Ontario’s “Fish and Wildlife Preservation decree” as well as the “Fisheries Regulation and Act”. During the Conservation Officers duty, they may do the following:

1. Ask important questions that are in relation to the inspection they are conducting;

2. Review and examine buildings;

3. Stop and examine a boat, vehicle, or aircraft;

4. Confiscate certain items which are related to the offence that an individual may have done;

5. Search and investigate having a warrant to legalize such search;

6. Search and investigate having no warrant to support the search in situations that require immediate attention and action;

7. Arrest anybody that the Wildlife Preservation Officer supposes and believe has committed, or is on the act of performing, or is about to perform a violation or offence.

Open Seasons

The opening and closing dates of fishing season changes and is determined by the species on the area. It is illegal to try catching a fish for which the season has already been closed, even if one is going to release it after. Do understand that closed seasons protect the fish at time of the year when they are most susceptible especially during spawning.

Unless specially stated, species that are not on the list have a year-round open season.

Tips on Lake Fishing for a Great Outdoor Experience

2007-06-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Tips on Lake Fishing for a Great Outdoor Experience

For many years, lake fish have been classified under three general heads: game fish, food fish, and forage or bait fish.

The bass, trout, pike, pickerel, muskellunge, pike perch, etc., have been generally known as game fish because of their sporting value.

On the other hand, carp, suckers, some of the catfish, yellow perch, etc., have been considered as food fish. While this latter group has not been considered as furnishing the sport that the so-called game fish do, nevertheless, it has a real economic and recreational value.

Generally speaking, in lake fishing, words are really inadequate when it comes to describing the correct procedure in casting. The best way to learn how to cast is to go down to the beach, watch an expert at work, and try to do likewise.

Nevertheless, lake fishing can really be fun and the novice will quickly master the correct form in lake fishing. Therefore, to further harness their craft, here are some tips that could help the anglers on their lake fishing activity.

1. In lake fishing, as with other forms of fishing, a smooth, snappy stroke is required but not as snappy as when snapping a whip. This type of stroke will cause the loss of many flies.

2. Anglers should remember that it is the line that is cast, not the fly. The fly is but a passenger, which is attached to the leader.

3. Proper timing is an important factor on both the backcast and forward cast.

4. Know the fish habitat and the kinds of fish that inhabit the lakes. Some of them are the sunfish, and the small mouth black bass.

These kinds of fish can usually be found hiding near some submerged log or stump, or among the plants.

5. When catching big fish in the lake, it is best to use big, sturdy rods. Big fish like the bass usually attain a weight of 12 pounds, which usually inhabits the lake or pond. The reason why they grow really big is that in lakes or ponds, the food is both abundant and very rich.

Hence, to handles these sizes, the ideal length and weight of the rod is 8 ½ feet in length and from 4 to four and three quarters of an ounce in weight.

Indeed, the fundamental principles in lake fishing are not difficult to master and with little patience and practice, the novice can become a successful angler in the lake.

Tips on Kayak Fishing

2007-06-10T06:42:00.002-07:00

Tips on Kayak Fishing

It takes a long time to become an expert in kayak fishing. The period of apprenticeship, which must be served in order to transform the novice into a veteran kayak angler can be discouraging and often runs into years.

About the nearest thing to a short cut is to have an old-timer take the first-timer under his wing and let the novice accompany him on kayak fishing trips

Basically, kayak fishing is gradually making a name in the industry. Its popularity is steadily creating sustainable gratifications aside from the fact that kayaks have long been used in fishing.

History has it that even in the early times; kayak fishing has long been the primary source of fish supply ranging from the “flatfish halibut” to other kinds of big fish. These activities, which happened from the mid 18th Century until the late part of it, were all noted by the Russian Orthodox priests. These turn of events are now known as “The Native History.”

From then on, kayak fishing continued to dominate the fishing industry, where once, people were doubtful if it could really aid the anglers to catch some fish. The steady feature brought about by its “sit-on” type has long been the primary characteristics of kayaks that made it an ideal fishing boat.

However, with kayak fishing, the angler has to learn how to steady the kayak as he tries to paddle through the waters, in which it is considered as part of the whole process.

Therefore, for people who wish to know some tips about kayak fishing, here’s a list that may help them enjoy this tricky activity.

1. Safety first

Like any activity, it is necessary that before an individual plunges into action, he or she must first observe some safety measures and background checks to ensure security and protection against any imminent danger.

The angler must check the weather condition, the tide, and other elements concerning kayaking.

2. Hatches should be closed at all times

The angler should always keep in mind that it is best to keep the hatches closed while fishing. Water can never seep through the kayak if the hatches are kept closed.

3. Steady fishing

When the angler is already in the midst of the waters, it is better to have an anchor to keep the kayak steady while on the verge of catching fish.

Best of all, before an individual goes out to the waters, it would be better if he let somebody know his whereabouts. In this way, somebody will be able to keep track of your activity.

As they say, safety should always come first.

Ice Fishing anyone?

2007-06-10T06:42:00.001-07:00

Ice Fishing anyone?

Careful planning and preparation is all it takes to make ice fishing the greatest time of your life or the worst. Easy? Take a look at the following tips and see how prepared you are to catch those fish!

Buy early

Make a list of the supplies you used last season and replenish them early. Make sure you get all those Glo-Buster Bluelights or Lindy Tazers. All you need to remember is four words: wise up, stock up.

Check the hole on the ice floor

Simply put, make sure the hole is clean. Chips or chunks of ice could cause entanglements in one’s fishing line and could make you catch fish or literally break your chances of getting any, as these could sever the line therefore losing your chance of getting that trophy of a lifetime bluegill. Remember to keep the hole clear of any barrier.

Fish more, get the big four

The bait you simply cannot go on without: wax worms, minnows, assorted PowerBait, maggots. It is best to keep these bait separated and as much as possible alive using coolers such as a small Coleman.

Clean `em all up

Inspect and clean the rods and fishing reels you are going to use. Q-tips are best for taking out the nicks in every nook and cranny of your ice rod. Non-freezing oil for lubing fishing reels is advisable.

Heat up

Do not forget to bring those heaters and pounds and pounds of propane cylinders. One cannot fish comfortably if he or she is as cold as the fish under the ice. Ice fishing should be fun and feel comfy too.

House up

The ice is harsh and cold but it doesn’t mean you have to feel that too. Ice tents should be cleaned out as well by putting over a light coat of lubricant at the joints. If there is any wear or tear, it is best to contact the manufacturer in order for them to send out the appropriate repair kit, as deemed necessary.

Gear Up

Better be safe than sorry, make sure you get a set of lifeguard spikes as well as a safety rope. Also, to feel less of the cold and at the same time be cool, pick up a fishing coat from the Carhartt Extremes Arctic Jacket. Avoid frost bits on your toes and feet, the best shoes are the Irish Setters Versa Trax to keep you warm all over.

Tips to Know the Types of Fishing Rod to Acquire

2007-06-10T06:41:00.001-07:00

Tips to Know the Types of Fishing Rod to Acquire

Fishing rod holders take the inconvenience out of fishing for a variety of reasons. For one, it is a convenient storage device especially when one is in a kayak. Rather than holding the paddle in between the legs while fishing, a fishing rod holder stores the rod in place therefore enabling anyone to carry multiple rods or (if one insists so) carry multiple paddles. It also makes trolling easy as a holder keeps the fishing rod in place as one travels to a number of fishing spots. Also, when unhooking a caught fish, rod holders keep the rod secure. More importantly, they help one catch more fish at the same time enabling a kayak look versatile and extremely well-designed.

Here are some tips that could prove helpful in order to determine the types of fishing rods one should purchase.

To attach or to not attach

There are basically two types of fishing rod holders, one that could be attached to the exterior of the kayak and one that is put in the flush. Both have different functions and both work well accordingly. The choice all depends on what one prefers to use and how.

To those who prefer the unattached

The unattached type of fishing rod holder comes in two forms, the straight and the angled. Most kayaks use the angled form. When this type is used, one has a good chance of being able to stroll because the rods veer away from the kayak.

To those who prefer the attached

If the straight type is used, one is able to keep the fishing rod in the middle of the kayak and therefore works best in keeping the rod in storage. This straight type of fishing rod holder is good for the Tower and Cobra Navigator model of a kayak.

The home-made fishing rod holder

One could just as make his or her very own personalized fishing rod holder using common PVC. Or one could also start out by getting a milk crate and attaching it to a kayak with the use of straps.

The alternative type of fishing rod

There is another type of fishing rod holder that could be placed just above the kayak. These are usually tubes that are called RAM as well as Titelock. As the latter’s name implies, it locks the rod in place and usually consists of a male and a female part. This part difference allows the two to be separated. Manufacturers that generally make this type of fishing rod are Attwood, Scotty and Roberts.

Hawaii Fishing Tips

2007-06-10T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hawaii Fishing Tips

The opportunity to be on a boat ready to catch fish, enjoying the beautiful scenery, and the camaraderie with the crew of the boat is the best experience in fishing you can find. Here are some helpful tips to enjoy fishing.

1. Choose a boat wisely. A boat that meets your needs and your goal on what to do with the fish you catch are the things to consider when choosing a boat for Hawaii Fishing Trips.

2. Choose the appropriate Island in Hawaii that meets your desired duration of the Fishing trip. For shorter trips, choose an Island in Hawaii that has deep water right near shore. These islands are ideal for shorter trips in fishing where catching fish won't take long.

3. Consider bringing tackle, bait, ice and fresh water. Confirm with the boat company if they will provide these items. Tackle is a set of pulleys and ropes assembled to facilitate the mechanisms for hoisting and pulling. Bait is for luring the fish. Ice is for keeping the catch fish fresh during the trip. Fresh water is for thirst quencher during the fishing trip.

4. Wear comfortable clothes that are suited for a hot summer day. T-shirts and shorts are the best pair of clothes to wear in fishing. An extra T-shirt will also be useful.

5. Consider bringing a baseball style cap for shading. This is effective in shielding the hot rays of the sun during the fishing trip.

6. Bring polarized sunglasses to see the fish in the water.

7. Closed toe boating shoes are highly recommended to use. They are made for keeping the feet from slipping when action gets good.

8. Bring food and drinks if the boat company won't provide these items. Cans are better than glass for drinks. Chips like Cheetos and Doritos for snacks seem to go well at sea.

9. Don't forget to bring medicine for seasickness. To minimize feeling seasick, take an 8-hour sleep before the fishing trip. Being fully awake and active before the boat leaves the dock will help prevent from feeling seasick all through out the fishing trip.

10. Eat a full meal at dinner and a light breakfast before the trip.

11. Don't forget to bring sunscreen. Sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher is highly recommended to protect the skin from the harmful UV Rays of the sun.

12. Decide before the trip on how to get at the harbor for the fishing trip in the morning. Either choose to take a cab or rent a car.

Using these tips will go a long way towards having an enjoyable day of fishing.

Tips on Fly Fishing

2007-06-10T06:38:00.001-07:00

Tips on Fly Fishing

There are thousands of live-bait anglers, who are excellent sportsmen, but the fly fisherman can practice better conservation from the beginning.

Basically, fly fishing is not only one of the fastest growing sports; it is one of the foremost forms of conserving natural resources as well as providing aquatic recreation.

Fly fishing is, very simple when three things are right: you must have a suitable rod; you must get a line to match it; and you must learn correct casting technique.

For people who wish to know some tips on fly fishing, here is a list of some pointers that could help anglers harness their fly fishing skills:

1. Material of the rod

For one of moderate means, and especially for the beginners, hollow glass is advised since it will require less care than bamboo and will not take a set if improperly handled or stored.

2. Line

Your fly casting skill will not progress with a mismatched rod and line. About 99 times in 100, the troubled fly caster has a line much too light to bring out the action of his rod.

That is why it is important to know that on any given rod, the fly fisherman should use the same size line for anything from small trout and bluegills up to the largest sea fish.

In choosing the size line, anglers should get a C level, an HCH double-taper, or a GBF three-diameter. This choice is based on the fact that a high percentage of fly rods bought nowadays are hollow glass, and that a great majority of these works best with lines of those sizes, almost regardless of lengths or weights.

3. The correct casting technique

In casting, it is important to get about 20 feet of line out front. Anglers should always remember to cast a straight line. Avoid jerky movements even if it is on a faster mode in order to do so.

Best of all, the angler should be relaxed because taunt muscles will ruin his casting.

Boiled down, there should be no reason why you should not learn the fundamental principles just as easily as those who now enjoy fly fishing.

Probably, the best and surest way to learn to cast successfully is to spend a day on the stream with some fisherman who is a competent caster.

Lessons learned on the stream are the best tips you can acquire anywhere in your quest for learning fly fishing.

Fishing Trip Tips

2007-06-10T06:37:00.002-07:00

Fishing Trip Tips

Fishing can be a relaxing way to spend your weekends. It has been proven that fishing is one of the all-time treasured experiences of thousands of American families. However, any sport has its dangerous side and fishing is no exemption.

Majority of fishing equipment have sharp tools such as metal hooks which may lead to accidents when the fishing environment unexpectedly changes for the worse. Storms, hurricanes, wild currents, and other mishaps, could spoil your fishing trip.

If you are planning to go on a fishing expedition with family or friends, here is a list of urgent situations and what preparations you need to face each scenario.

1) Weather – Before packing up your bags and traveling to you fishing spot, consult or be aware of the weather conditions for the day and the following days. Whether you are fishing on shores or in a boat, you should be cautious of the conditions such as flash floods, storm movements and darkening of the skies. When signals such as extreme lightning strikes, you should head to dry land immediately.

Having a sun-drenched day is not really an “appropriate fishing day.” You should be aware that spending many hours with exposure to the sun could damage your skin. Be prepared by bringing sun block to avoid sunburns. You should be aware of heat sickness symptoms such as nausea, breathing difficulty, lightheadedness, and unable to concentrate on tasks. Prepare a supply of water or liquid beverages to keep hydrated.

2) Sharp fishing equipments – Since fishing includes many sharp tools, you should always be prepared to treat injuries by packing disinfectants such as medicated lotion or spray and hydrogen peroxide. If an incident leads the skin to bleed, you would need bandages, cotton or paper towel. Bring your own first aid kit.

3) Tangles – One of the most common fishing hindrances is wherein your line is caught in anything surrounding your fishing spot such as trees, logs, etc. Try to get your line or fishing rod out of the tangle immediately to avoid the problem that could lead into a major accident. You could either snap off the branches of the tree or carefully and slowly remove your line away from where it is tangled.

4) Bait – When you run out of bait, it could spoil your while fishing trip. Avoid this by splitting up the rest of the bait into halves, quarters or thirds. The worm, even if divided, could still move, so the divided worms could still lure your target fish.

Be prepared to face any scenario to keep your fishing adventure as relaxed as possible. With all these in mind, you could enjoy your fishing trip safely and successfully.

Fishing Tips for Beginners

2007-06-10T06:37:00.001-07:00

Fishing Tips for Beginners

There are many kinds of fishing equipments in stores, numerous fishing methods in books, and fishing advices online. To make it all simple, here are the basic things you need to know for your first time fishing adventure.

1) How to fish with bait

* Tackle. To plunk the bait, you should purchase lead weights. The weight of the lead would vary depending on the current of the environment. Anglers commonly use and recommend bank sinkers with a number-two hook.

To avoid sinkers to slide, you would need a swivel to act as a stop. To protect the knot, you could use plastic beads between the swivel and weight. Using two appropriate swivels could allow you to rig the sliding sinkers.

* Bait. The commonly used bait for all kinds of fishes is worms. Another popular bait is chicken liver. Remember to buy fresh bait and keep them cold to avoid them from getting soft and allowing the bait to stay within your hooks.

Some of the commonly used baits are cut-baits which include skin from fried chicken, fish entrails, grasshoppers, salmon eggs, shrimps and crayfish tails.

2) How to fish – There are three basic methods for fishing.

* Plunking – It is the most common method used. Use a suitable amount of weight for you to be able to take hold of the bait in a position which is against any current. An option in plunking is to use minimal weight for the bait to move along with the water current.

* Back bouncing – It is done by lifting the bait out the bottom and raising the tip of the rod for one to two feet. Allowing the bait to walk with the current, you should free the back reel or spool. Repeat the steps when the lure settles down on the bottom. Back bouncing is effective in deeper water like fishing in a boat.

* Drift-fishing – It is a simple method wherein you cast upstream or downstream. This may vary depending on the current's amount. You should count the appropriate depth and start reeling.

3) How to fish from a boat – It is important to determine in which location you would perform your fishing. Deeper water needs heavier jigheads compared when fishing on shore.

* With heavy weight which keeps your bait near the bottom of the water and the line straight down from your boat, you are able to drift the boat along with any current. A good technique of fishing on boats is trolling slowly with a fishing device called bottom-walker.

Fishing is easy as long as you’re enjoying the trip. Bring some of your family and friends along and make your first time fishing a memorable one.

Fishing Tackle Guidelines

2007-06-10T06:36:00.001-07:00

Fishing Tackle Guidelines

Fishing can be an extremely enjoyable and relaxing adventure. As long as you have the right tools, the fishing safety knowledge, and a little bit of support from friends or family, you could perform your fishing successfully.

However, the most overlooked factor in buying equipments is choosing the right fishing tackle. You should follow these simple guidelines in the selection of tackles.

1) You should choose the appropriate fishing flies that you would be using to catch the kind of fish you will be targeting to seize. The basic rule in choosing the kind of fly is to know which is abundant in that actual environment.

2) Once you have determined which fly to use, you should be able to choose the appropriate line to use. The three commonly used tackles are fly-fishing, plug casting and spinning. The difference between the three is that spinning and plug-casting makes use of bait as weight to drag the line from its reel to the target point of your fishing.

3) Fly lines come in four different types – weight-forward, double taper, shooting-taper and level taper. Within the four different types are numerous variations. However, once you have decided what kind of fishing wish to accomplish and what kind of fish you wish to catch, you will be using only a particular fishing line.

The fishing lines have numbers that rank from one to fifteen. However, the most common among anglers are the lines numbered from three to twelve in weight. As a basic rule for optimum catching, the first thirty feet of your line should be weighted and matched to the rod.

4) The next thing you should purchase is the rod and reel. The most suitable equipment for beginners is the spin-casting gears that is easy to operate and provides the least setbacks. For any kind of fishing, the recommended spin-casting reel is mounted on a light-action six-foot casting rod and spooled with an eight-pound test line. The reel and rod could be purchased as a package in many fishing stores. Most professional anglers prefer bait-casting and spinning tackle.

5) You would need sinkers, hooks and bobbers. Sinkers and hooks could be bought in different pack with different styles and sizes. When selecting bobbers, always keep in mind that the smaller the bobber, the better the performance. The struggling of the fish would depend on the size of your bobber.

6) Professional anglers prefer artificial lures. The recommended sizes of lures are 1/8 ounce up to ¼ ounce.

Remember that the kind of tackle would depend on the fish you prefer to catch. Avoid buying unnecessary fishing items and enjoy your affordable fishing experience.

The Basic Fishing Supplies

2007-06-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

The Basic Fishing Supplies

Fishing is a nature-oriented sport that allows you to relax. Many people want to experience fishing, but are unable to buy the appropriate supplies for their adventure.

There are many fishing stores around, but majority of the stores try to sell unnecessary fishing supplies to gain more from the innocence of the fishing novice. Here are some of the basic fishing supplies you need for any kind of fishing in any location.

1) Hooks – In a variety of shape and sizes, these are one of the most important parts of your fishing gear. Fishing hooks are affordable, so you could stock an assortment of hooks for each kind of fishing. Majority of hooks are shaped like a letter “J.”

2) Rigs – These are used for catching different kinds and species of fish. The two most common rigs are the Bobber and Crappie. Bobber rigs are suitable for catching Bluegills and are best for beginners.

3) Sinkers – As the name suggests, this fishing equipment is used to cast lighter lures and to quickly drop the bait to the bottom of the water where the fish are located. Together with the bobbers, the sinkers are used to hold your line at any given point.

In fishing stores, you will find numerous variations of sinkers that come in different sizes, weights, and shapes. The current speed and the water depth would determine the weight of the sinkers you will need for your fishing trip.

4) Bobber – It is also called a cork or a float. The bobber’s purpose is to let you know when a fish bites your bait. The commonly used bobbers are pencil, slip bobbers and buttons. They come in different sizes to fit all kinds of baits and sinkers. The best bobbers are those that are smaller. The wind would blow the bobber back to you if it were too light and would scare the fishes off when it is too big.

5) Swivels – This kind of fishing equipment is used when you are fishing with bait such as a spinner or a minnow. These kinds of bait tend to twist and turn, which would likely your line deformed. By using the swivel and connecting it between your line and bait, it would allow the lure to spin around without tangling up the line. Swivels are affordable and come in different sizes to fit the bait and hooks you use.

Other supplies are the tackle box and your bait. The bait would vary depending on the kind of fishing you wish to perform.

Now that you know the basics, you could easily enjoy your fishing trip affordably and safely

Purpose of Fishing Rod Holders

2007-06-10T06:28:00.000-07:00

Purpose of Fishing Rod Holders

Fishing is a sport designed for relaxation. It is where fish lovers pride themselves of the fish caught while celebrating it with friends and family.

The rod holder is a fishing tool that allows fishermen to multi-task easily. It was invented because fishing requires the use of both hands in the whole process of luring, hook clearing and removing the fish from the hooks. With all these tasks, letting go of the pole is difficult. The fishing rod holder was intended for anglers to be able to make use of both hands.

The first design of fishing rod holders had two parts. The first is a pole-binding device with a strap placed on the railing to tie up to the fishing pole. The second part is a Velcro strap that could be tied on your limb, arms or waist.

The first designs needed improvement because when the straps were placed on the waist, it is wedged into anything you hit. Therefore, a new design of rod holder was invented which has four parts – two pole clips and two straps.

Depending on what fishing position you are in, the short strap is used to be wrapped around your wrist or forearm and the long strap is wrapped around your ankle or leg.

There are also rod holders which come with a remedial solution for seasickness. This curative fishing rod is capable of providing the user with an acupressure stimulator. Providing that the strap of the holder be worn all throughout the trip, it would remain efficient since the pressure is exerted continuously.

The rod holder is best for fly-fishing. Fly fishing is done in locations with rocky rivers and it is impossible to use your other hand for any purpose other than the fishing tasks. Because of the clips wrapped around your lower leg, you have a choice of putting the rear of the fishing pole into the clip so that no water could go inside it.

The upper pole clips could rotate to 360 degrees. It allows the user to do any movement since the pole is more flexible. The fishing rod holder could be used in any location whether in boats, on land, or at the dock. It prevents the fishing rod to slip from your hands and it allows you to release the rod easily.

The best fishing rod holders are those done homemade. However, many fishing stores offer high quality rod holders that would best suit your kind of fishing.

Fish for Reel

2007-06-10T06:27:00.000-07:00

Fish for Reel

Being surrounded by nature’s beauty can be fun. One can do it at the beach, in a luxury resort or just traveling out of town. Fishing is another good activity one can choose to do to bond more with either family or friends.

There will always be challenges whether one decides to fish either in the river or in the open sea. The important thing to remember is to have patience waiting for the fish and doing the best to catch it when it appears.

To be able to fish, a person needs to get a fishing license since this is requirement by law and the regulations regarding fishing varies from one state to the other.

Once that has been acquired, it is time now to get the proper equipment to start reeling in the fish.

The fishing reel was invented centuries ago. It dates back to the 17th century though some historians have discovered that the Chinese started using it as early as the 12th century. Until the 1800’s, the purpose of the reel was just a storage space for the excess line. This was later improved and various models were invented using different materials such as brass and nickel which are still in use today.

There are 2 things one should consider before buying the right reel,

1. Where will the person fish?

There are many kinds of fishing reels available. The model used for fishing in the river or stream is quite different from those who have experience and go fishing as a sport in the open sea.

It is advisable for beginners to just get the basic package and have fun before moving on to more advanced equipment.

2. Will buying a fishing reel fit within ones budget?

With the many models available and after figuring out what kind of fishing reel one needs, it all depends on how much it costs and if that person is willing to spend it. Fishing takes a lot of practice before being able to excel at it. One can purchase a new reel either online or at the local store. Another way to get started could be buying a second hand reel first before deciding to buy a brand new one.

Being an expert at fishing won’t happen in one day. It takes practice and patience just waiting for that fish to appear and finally play it out when it appears. One should always remember that in the water and with people, it is all about having fun.

Fish for Reel

2007-06-10T06:26:00.000-07:00

Fishing Pole

2007-06-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

Fishing Pole

Fishing is about being with nature and for those who have been doing it for a very long time; it takes more than just a simple fishing rod and bait. For others though who want to try it and perhaps do it more often, investing in the right tools and accessories will make it a worthwhile experience and at the same time enable the person to catch a lot of fish.

The most important piece of equipment is the rod. For beginners, the basic rod and some bait will do. During this time, the type of material used and the features it has is not important. What matters is getting the feel of it and having fun. When the person is already comfortable and ready to move on to the next level, then one can invest in other more complex pieces of fishing equipment.

There are several types of rods available and it takes time to try out all of them before finding the right one that works well with the person. Rods are made from different materials like wood, fiberglass and carbon fiber.

It is important to know before entering the store or ordering online the kind of fishing one will be doing and under what conditions. Feeling the rod’s handle in the palm of the hand and practice casting with a rod will test how flexible and how easy it is to use.

The proper length depends on the kind of fish and type of bait that will be used for fishing. A 4 inch to 6 inch rod is adequate for light bait and small fish. Since larger fish will require larger bait that usually requires one to cast in a longer distance, a rod that is 6 inches or longer will be needed.

There is no age limit for anyone to start fishing. Fishing takes a lot of practice before being able to excel at it. One can purchase a new fishing pole either online or at the local store. Another way to get started could be buying a second hand pole first before deciding to buy a brand new one.

Being an expert at fishing won’t happen in one day. It takes practice and patience just waiting for the fish and finally catching it out when it appears. One should always remember that in the water and with people, it is all about having fun.

Fishing with the Right Line

2007-06-10T06:24:00.000-07:00

Fishing with the Right Line

There will always be challenges whether one decides to fish either in the river or in the open sea. The important thing to remember is to have patience waiting for the fish and doing the best to catch it when it appears.

To be able to fish, a person would need to get a fishing license since this is requirement by law and the regulations regarding fishing varies from one state to the other.

Getting the right equipment for fishing is also an important factor in making that experience a memorable one. Using the wrong kind of fishing line or one that is made of poor quality will cause many problems such as tangles and lost fish.

There are 4 kinds available in the market. These are monofilament, braided, fused and fluororcarbon.

The Monofilament fishing line is the most popular of the four since it has been around for a very long time. It also works well in different fishing conditions. The problem with this line is that it has “memory.” This means that it has a tendency to keep to a certain shape if stored for some time. If a person does not fish often, it is best to purchase a line that is not very long and it is advisable to change it every time one goes out fishing.

Braided fishing lines are the strongest of the 4 available. These lines don’t stretch and are quite easy to see since the woven nature of the line makes it float. The bad part about this line is also about its strength that causes abrasions on other things like one’s hands, the fishing rod and the line that guides the reel. As such, one should have the right hardware around when using it.

Fused fishing lines are similar to braided fishing lines. The only difference is in the manufacturing process where fused lines are glued together with a coating applied over it instead of woven. This makes fused fishing lines share some of the difficulties with braided fishing lines such as making it difficult to cut without a sharp knife or scissors, its tendency to slide around a bit on the reel spool and its visibility to fish which will make catching fish a bit challenging.

Fluorocarbon fishing lines are getting more popular these days since fish are not able to see it in the water.

License to Fish

2007-06-10T00:20:00.000-07:00

License to Fish

Fishing is just one of the many forms of relaxation people do these days with either friends or family. It is a time for bonding and a great escape from the pressures of daily life.

To be able to fish, a person needs to get a fishing license since this is requirement by law and the regulations regarding fishing varies from one state to the other.

In some states, 2 licenses are needed. One is called the Conservation license which is a prerequisite before one can obtain a fishing license.

Getting a license to fish is quite different from the time a person needed to get a drivers license. The person does not have to take an exam or get a student’s permit before being issued one.

The Conservation license can be obtained from the Fish, Wildlife & Parks or FWP. This is done by giving one’s social security number and other information that is requested. A valid driver’s license or any valid ID with photo must also be presented for security purposes for the license to be processed.

The fishing license allows a person to fish or possess any aquatic creature as long as it is authorized by the state’s fishing regulations. This license is neither non-transferable nor non-refundable and is only valid for one year or season.

Since fishing licenses as mentioned earlier vary from state to state, a fishing license can either be a resident license or a non-resident license. For one to qualify for a resident license, that person must have resided in that certain location for a period of time such as 6 months, should be a local tax payer , must be a registered voter, purchased a vehicle and have a valid driver’s issued from that state. In addition, one must not possess or apply for any resident hunting, fishing or trapping privileges in another state or country.

A non-resident can fish in another state as long as the person is accompanied by someone who resides in that state.

There is no age limit for anyone to acquire a fishing license. People both young and old can obtain it. Usually a person who is below 11 years of age can get a fishing license for free. People who are older than that have to pay a certain fee to acquire it.

With the paper work in proper order, one can just grab the proper gear, a boat and start having some fun being close with nature.

Fishing in USA

2007-06-10T00:19:00.000-07:00

Fishing in USA

Fishing as a sport and recreational activity is very popular in the United States. It has been a traditional hobby of the Americans as well as tourists in the USA. The Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, including the many streams of water across the country offer greater opportunities for Salt water fishing. United States of America has many rivers, lakes and inland streams for fresh water adventures.

Fishing in the U.S.A. is very diverse because of the fish migrating every season. The weather, however, is one factor that restrains people from fishing. Rain, fog, snow, and wind affect the fishermen since these conditions may sometimes be dangerous to them.

Since the fish are diverse, fishermen have a lot of fishing techniques depending on the type of fish they are targeting. They can do surf fishing, fly fishing, bait casting, pier fishing and many other techniques.

Florida for example, is one state that has long been famous for fishing. Everywhere in Florida you see a lot of men and women of different ages getting excited about fishing. You see them holding fishing lines in bridges, causeways, riverbanks and piers. Also, Charter fishing boats are popular in all coasts of Florida.

Florida is known for its saltwater fishing and fly fishing. You need to be versatile to get the most out of Florida’s fly fishing adventures. Fly fishing and saltwater fishing are your choices depending on the time of the year.

There are abundant Redfish in Daytona Beach, Titusville and St. John's River. Spotted Sea Trout are also found in Florida. You can find a local guide in the area and they will be able to help you enjoy your fishing experience.

Florida has been a hot place for fishing especially during the start of October. There are large numbers of Redfish until mid morning. There are a lot of Snooks being caught. During the afternoon when the temperature is high, there are a large numbers of jacks, ladyfish and trout that keep the fishermen in action.

Americans and tourists have a variety of reason why they fish in the U.S.A. Some love to see the sunrise and sunset in the water. Besides fishing, some love to watch dolphins, whales and birds. But still it is the catching of fish that really thrill them. Fishing in the U.S.A is a meaningful pastime whether in groups or all alone. The money you will spend is worth the fun and excitement including building relationships.

Fishing in the South Pacific

2007-06-10T00:18:00.000-07:00

Fishing in the South Pacific

The South Pacific has long been known because of the exciting experiences the waters can offer. It has been famous to tourists and even neighboring countries because of adventures and excitements it can offer. Many fishermen come to New Zealand when summers draws to a close. This is the season when tuna and billfish swim closer to the shores to find a warmer place.

During the remaining seven months of the year, that is the time for the fishermen to have a great time especially the months after the winter. You do not need many things to bring to enjoy the exciting destinations of the South Pacific. All you need is your clothes and hats and off you go.

Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Tonga and Niue are places that most tourists visit to fish. These spots have been the highest rated fishing vacation sites because of the abundant fish and the weather as well. These spots have temperatures that attract fish, which explains why there are abundant fish in these places. Fishing in these spots is never complicated. You can even target sailfish and mahi-mahi with your own tackle.

Sailfish have been famous for their aerobatics with their sails dashing in the sunlight. It is also in the South Pacific that you will witness a big bull mahi-mahi lure you out. For the adventurers, this is also a chance for you to cast "poppers" and jigs to a dogtooth tuna or a trevally.

These hotspots are perfect not only to those who like to cook what they catch but also for those who have the "catch and release" philosophy. Game fishermen in these places usually catch sailfish, Northern Blue Tuna, Marlin, Spanish mackerel, Red Emperor, Trevally and Cod.

If you are someone who loves fly-fishing, creek fishing and blue water fishing, then the South Pacific is perfect for you. Whether you are an expert or a beginner, there are many skilled and experienced fishing guides and best quality boats that are safe and will ensure that you will have the best fishing experience.

It is recommended to hire a sport fishing or a specialist game fishing boat for to have fun and make the most out of your fishing trip. Game fishing and sport fishing are both popular in these spots. These are games that were used to be played only by the rich but on these spots anybody can play!

Fishing in China

2007-06-10T00:17:00.002-07:00

Fishing in China

A fishing vacation is never complete without fishing in the waters of Hong Kong, China. You may explore the fishing realms that the region has to offer. Hong Kong has once been known as an excellent port for fishing enthusiasts. Hong Kong will offer you the kind of fishing that you will never forget.

People may be after the food, shopping and the tourist spots of the region. But for people who are into fishing, Hong Kong can give more than what is expected of it as a city. To fish in Hong Kong is very exciting. You will be able to learn and experience the methods of fishing they have in Hong Kong.

Since it is surrounded by an ocean, this explains why most people fish in saltwater in Hong Kong. Targeting a fish is very simple. The ocean and the harbors are very accessible. You can fish in the harbors of Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kwun Tong or the Hong Kong Island.

In Hong Kong, saltwater fishing is done everywhere in the surrounding ocean. There has never been a scarcity of fish in this region. You will find fish everywhere in the water. Tourists who come to fish can also visit Stanley, which is near Hong Kong. Stanley will be perfect for you if you are someone who wants peace, enjoy fishing quietly and away from the city life.

The Lamma Island and Sai Kung peninsula and are also spots recommended by local Anglers. These two places still have the features offered by a traditional fishing village. They also provide people with charter boats.

The Anglers in Hong Kong use the same saltwater fishing techniques that are used in the US. You can use your own techniques even if it's deep sea fishing or surf fishing. Many people also use bloodworms or shrimps to catch fish.

Hong Kong, also provides fresh water fishing. Carp, Big Head Tilapia, and Edible Goldfish are the types of fish that you will catch in these water reservoirs. Tourists, however, have a difficulty trying the Freshwater fishing since they still need to supply a license to fish in Hong Kong.

Going to Hong Kong to fish does not require much planning for a fishing trip. You will be able to track down easily the hot spots of Hong Kong where you can enjoy fishing. Hong Kong is surrounded by water, which means that fishing is everywhere. You will be surprised that in a matter of hours, you are able to catch a bucketful of pan-sized fi

Fishing in Canada

2007-06-10T00:17:00.001-07:00

Fishing in Canada

If you would like to experience real adventure in fishing, then Canada is the perfect location for you. Canada has a wide area of rivers, ponds, freshwater lakes, saltwater and streams. Freshwater and saltwater fishing are the favorite pastimes of Canadians and tourists. Fish in Canada including wildlife are very abundant. Canada offers a lot of first-class fishing trips that will make the most out of your time and money. There would not be any reason that you might be disappointed.

Canada has the ideal water where the fish are abundant. There are also plenty of shops and establishments that sell fishing gear and tools for fishing. Fishing in Canada is divided in two groups. That is the Lake Water Fishing and the Salt Water Fishing. The two groups are totally different especially in Canada.

The most famous fishing in Canada is the Salmon Fishing, which is enjoying and rewarding. Salmon varieties that are abundant in Canada are the Coho, Sockeye Salmon, Chinook and the chum. Salmon are known for their size and beauty. Many fishing guides in Canada specialize in the adventure of Salmon Fishing.

Saltwater fishing is popular in the 3 coasts of Canada. They are the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans. This is a chance for shark and tuna fishing. A lot of big saltwater fish are caught only on deep seas and that is what the 3 coasts offer.

Canada is also known for fly fishing. Fly fishing, which is an older type of sport fishing, is about catching a fish using an artificial lure called a "fly.” Many resorts and establishments in Canada offer great packages on fly fishing.

Ice Fishing is also an option for you if you would like to experience fishing in Canada. There are also ice fishing guides that could assist you in your trip. They will ensure your safety and enjoyable experience in Canada. Ice fishing requires special gear, outfits and techniques that require the help of a skilled ice fishing guide. Many tourists who come to Canada for ice fishing can rent ice huts to keep them warm and away from wind.

For tourists who would like to experience ice fishing in Canada, it is always recommended that you come along with fishing guides that are specialized on each fishing type. It is also advised to bring a compass, cell phones and flashlights as safety device and for emergency purposes.

Tips on Finding a Fishing Guide

2007-06-10T00:15:00.000-07:00

Tips on Finding a Fishing Guide

1. Open Communication matters. It is important that you provide the guide all the information they need so that they will figure out what kind of fishing trip is best for you. Be sure to be honest in telling the guide how much experience you have regarding fishing. This will help them to know what advice and tips to give you so that you can make the most out of your time.

2. Seek the help of friends and relatives. Ask your friends and relatives who have fished and if not they may be able to provide you with some referrals. It is better to ask them about their experiences, the things that you need to do and things that you have to look for in a guide. They may be also to provide you referrals of the guides they have tried and found effective for them. This will be a chance for you to ask if the guide they are referring you to has enough knowledge or is accommodating to clients.

3. Browse the Internet. The Internet can provide a lot of websites where you can find the best guides in a certain location. You can also post messages and questions regarding the website and they may be able to find the information you need.

4. Determine if your prospective guide is licensed. It is better that you know that the person you are working with is working according to the law. A licensed guide is also sure to be relied on especially with the matters of integrity and trust. Ask the guide of their name and phone numbers including the state-licensing bureau. A guide who is not willing to provide you the information you are asking for is not worth your time.

5. Find out exactly what you are paying for and how long the amount would cover. You need to know this information for you to be able to manage your schedule before the fishing trip and plan the things that you need to bring which are not covered by the payment you made. Some include the price for lodging in the package while other guides may charge extra for that. Asking the coverage of your fees will also help you assess if the services you will get is worth the money you will be spending.

6. Get to know the guide. Evaluate if the guide that you will be working with can get along with you. If not, you will just be wasting your time and money. Fishing is a time to learn and enjoy but if the two of you will not get along well, the whole trip might just be ruined. Get to know the guide first before you set foot on the boat. Exert a little effort to call the guide and make a small chat to break the ice and make the two of you comfortable on the day of the actual fishing.

7. Also make time to find out how long the prospective guide has been on his job. This will make it easier for you to assess the level of experience the guide has earned in that field. It is better that you choose a guide that has been in fishing for many years. They are the ones who usually have the skills and teaching techniques that will be of great help to you.

Some Basic Facts about Fishing Gear

2007-06-10T00:14:00.002-07:00

Some Basic Facts about Fishing Gear

In fishing, it is very important to an angler’s success that he starts with the proper equipment. He may purchase or own the finest equipment in the world, but when it is assembled and put into use, it may prove to be a very decided handicap.

To guard against this, it is important that the individual items of tackle be properly balanced one with the other. Unbalanced equipment has been responsible for more difficulties and failures of beginners than any other single factor.

Fishing Rod

To fish with a good rod is to really enjoy fishing. It is much easier to learn with a good rod than with one of an inferior quality. This is no commercial plug to encourage the sale of expensive rods, but just a word of warning to prevent any possible or unnecessary discouragement because of using a rod that would be decided handicap to a competent caster.

Fishing Lines

This item of fishing gear must be selected with some careful considerations if anglers are expecting to enjoy fishing or casting.

This is because the size and weight of fishing lines made by various manufacturers are not entirely uniform, that is, the diameter of the line by one manufacturer may be slightly larger or smaller than a line by another manufacturer even though both bear the same size marking.

The Leader

The leader is also a very important item, and unless it is selected with care and consideration in comparison with the size of the line, the caster will have trouble in making it extend straight out from the line when casting.

The chief function of the leader is to serve as an invisible connection between the line and the lure.

Fishing Flies or Lures

The flies may range in size, from the tiniest used, which might be number 18 or 20, up to flies tied on number-2 hooks or larger. The heavier flies or lures create; more wind is needed. It also requires the use of heavier equipment or more power on the part of the caster during the back cast and forward cast.

Reels

The reel may be automatic or single action, but in any event, it should be larger enough to hold the usual 30 yards of fishing line without crowding it on the reel spool.

The reel should weigh from 1 ¼ to 1 ½ as much as the bare rod. The reel itself is of no specific use in casting or fishing except as a storage place for the line.

Consequently, the entire equipment should always be in good condition. Other wise, achieving success in fishing is impossible.

Fishing Game: Nature’s Playground

2007-06-10T00:14:00.001-07:00

Fishing Game: Nature’s Playground

If all men measured up to the standards of true sportsmanship, there would be no need for game, fish, and forestry laws. Neither would there be so much need for the laws that regulate human affairs in general.

But, in the fishing game, it is the true sportsman, with a love for the great outdoors, a wholesome respect for the welfare of others, and consideration for living and growing things, who sets the good examples for the youth to follow.

In reality, fishing games differ a lot from the other types of games that man has come to know. A fishing game is not a mere reflection of the activity itself but more of the love for fishing.

In fishing games, the angler does not go hunting or fishing only to gain the privilege of boasting over slaughter or material gain. He loves the lightning-like flash of the trout, the leap of the bass or muskie, the tug on the line, the whir of the reel, the thrill of battle with some “denizens” of the deep, and the companionship of other true sportsmen.

The Concept of Fishing Games

The most common type of fishing game is known as the “offshore game fishing.” In this type of game fishing, the anglers aim for the big lean fishes like the marlins and the tunas and the fishing is done in the sea.

Offshore game fishing is usually conducted as one type of recreational activity. Though, there are instances wherein this type of fishing game is also employed in competitions like the sports fishing.

Because of the energy being utilized in this type of recreational activity, offshore game fishing usually requires the biggest fishing boats. These fishing boats generally range from 30 to 50 feet in length.

The object of the game is to reel the fish in once it is properly hooked on the line. This can be a daunting task since the fish, especially if it is a big one, will have the tendency to pull away from the boat. The challenge is to reel the fish in while keeping the fishing line maintained on its specified tension.

The fishing game is not more of a competition for a true angler. Whenever they are doing this kind of activity as part of the game, what the angler really wants is to get in touch with nature, to breathe the clean, pure air, and muse in solitude in the wilds of nature’s playground.

Hence, in fishing games like offshore game fishing, the anglers like to play the game in strict accordance with the rules of reason and fairness at the same time conserve the value of fishes in the community.

Things to Know About Fishing Charter

2007-06-10T00:12:00.000-07:00

Things to Know About Fishing Charter

Recreation is an essential factor in the life of every human being. The anglers or the fishermen represent the largest single group of recreational seekers, and have a decided advantage over the other groups who utilize nature’s creatures and elements for recreation or food.

The popularity of fishing in many areas has been largely based upon the angling pressure, which is far beyond the normal capacity of the streams and lakes. There are species of fish for every type of angler and each one may choose the species of fish or the method of fishing that has the greatest personal appeal or attraction.

It is for this reason that many people are enticed to spend their vacation in a fishing activity. But, for people who would like to have planned fishing activities, they opt for fishing charters.

Fishing charter is one way of enjoying fishing even if an individual does not have the means or the equipment as far as fishing is concerned. It aims to provide the necessary services in a fishing activity.

However, not all fishing charters are created equal. Hence, it is important to know the factors required to be taken into account before jumping into conclusions.

Here is a list of some mportant factors that need to be considered:

1. The cost of the trip

Like any financial decision, people who would like to use fishing charter should know the required charges of the trip.

It is best to know the necessary requirements like deposits or contract agreements before committing to a fishing charter.

Best of all, people should be aware of the items they are paying for. They should know what the kinds of services included on the package are.

2. The length of time required in each charter trip.

Most captains are enticed to do a little fishing before going back to the dock. This will not pose a problem at all but if it will cost the person, who requested the service, additional charges for extra minutes or hours spent beyond the agreed number of hours, then, that is a problem.

Hence, it is important for the individual to know what time the charter will start and end.

3. The captain

It is important for a person who wants to engage in a fishing charter to know the competency and the skills of the captain. Hence, in order to have a successful fishing activity, it is best to get the experienced captain.

A fishing charter is one way of enjoying fishing at its best.

Tips on Buying Fishing Boats

2007-06-10T00:07:00.000-07:00

Tips on Buying Fishing Boats

Selecting and acquiring the ideal fishing boat is a real art for someone who has already gone through many experiences as far as boating is concerned. However, it can be a daunting task to those who have not yet experienced buying a fishing boat.

To make the activity easier for the first timers, here is a list of tips that they can use when choosing an ideal fishing boat.

1. It is important to consider the purpose of the fishing boat.

Buying a fishing boat has only one purpose: to be used in fishing. However, before choosing the perfect fishing boat, it is important to consider also the other purposes.

First, the place where the fishing boat will be used should be taken into account. Will it be in the ocean or in other bodies of water like lakes?

Second, the time of the day it will be used. Will it be for day trips or for overnight fishing activities?

If the fishing boat will be used for ocean cruising and overnight stays, it would be better to buy a fishing boat that has a hull. This is specifically designed for rough waters. This design is meant to ride with the waves, hence, providing more comfort to anglers while on board.

2. The budget

When buying a fishing boat, it is important to know if the buyer can afford to acquire a boat. Fishing boats, or any boat for that matter, can be very expensive. Hence, the buyer should know how far his budget would go as far as fishing boat prices are concerned.

3. The warranties

It is extremely important to know if the fishing boat has a warranty. It should be analyzed and meticulously scrutinized because not all warranties are created equal.

Hence, it is best to buy a fishing boat from dealers that will provide the necessary services in case their product is found to be defective.

4. The certification

When buying a fishing boat, it is important to take note if it is certified by the “National Marine Manufacturers Association” or the NMMA. This agency guarantees that the certification they give to every boat manufacturer is a guarantee that the fishing boat had passed the agency’s standard of excellence.

The bottom line is that, people should do more than just look around when choosing the ideal fishing boat. They should learn how to look for the important details in order to ensure that the boat they have acquired is definitely worth their money.

What is Fishing Bait?

2007-06-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

What is Fishing Bait?

There is such an assortment of bait that it is difficult to recommend any particular color, size, or type as the best. There are more than a thousand good baits on the market. All will catch fish at some time or another.

Fishing baits usually weigh from ¼ to an ounce to three ounces. The most popular weight preferred by the majority of bait casters is the 5/8-ounce bait, while the average is between ½ and 3 quarters of an ounce. Baits can either be used as a whole or cut into chunks. Anglers can also use dead or live baits.

The Different Types of Bait

There is a wide array of organisms being used as fishing baits. Among the different types used in fishing, the commonly used are the small fishes. These consist of widely used fishing baits such as herring, anchovies, menhaden, and some others that are inborn to certain local waters. Larger fishes are usually used as chunk baits.

Fishing baits can be used whole, chunk, and strips, based on the activities of the type of fishes being chased. The size of the fishing bait is usually well matched with the size of the fish being hunted. Other common organisms used for bait fishing are crabs, worms, shrimps, crabs, clams, sand fleas, eels, and squid. Among all of the organisms mentioned, the crabs and the shrimps are the well-liked organisms to be used as fishing baits.

Shrimp are favorably used as fishing bait and are considered to be very valuable bait for a huge number of saltwater fish, especially those that are considered “inshore fish” like redfish, speckled trout, shook, and a lot more.

Whereas, various crab species, especially the fiddler crab, sand flea, and the blue crab, are perfect fishing baits for many varieties of “inshore fishes” and “bottom fish.” These crabs are usually clasped through their shell, usually on either the right or left of the head.

How to Acquire Fishing Bait?

Fishermen can acquire fishing bait either buying them in bait shops or simply by capturing it themselves.

The advantage of buying fishing bait is convenience, while catching live fishing bait is less expensive and can be more effective in luring fish. Digging for earthworms is another activity. Earthworms make an excellent bait.

Indeed, when it comes to bait fishing, using the proper fishing bait are important and imperative to the success of fishing. Hence, anglers should know the basics of choosing fishing baits in order to save time and money.

The Recreational Value of Fishing

2007-06-10T00:04:00.000-07:00

The Recreational Value of Fishing

Many people consider that fish are only a medium of survival, or to some extent a food supply; yet there is another angle that is little known. The manufacturing industry utilizes more than two billion pounds of fish and fish by-products every year. This is slightly more than is used for food.

What most people do not know is that fishing continues to provide recreational activity of making it one of the most preferred hobbies.

In fact, fishing as a hobby is continuously growing and that is why the estimated number of people who acquire fishing licenses each year is more than 12 million.

Moreover, surveys show that for every dollar spent for a fishing license, there are sixteen dollars spent for equipment, such as fishing tackle, food, clothing, and transportation. There is more money spent on fishing than on any other hobby in existence.
Why is it a Great Hobby?

It is a means of providing something to free the mind and body of the worries of the day. It has also been proven to help in mentoring troubled teens, replacing negative thoughts and activity with more positive traits and pursuits. Fishing is truly a wholesome sport.

The use of all types of fishing equipment has added something that no other feature could possibly accomplish. Thousands of youngsters are enthusiastic to learn how to cast a fly or plug bait.

These youngsters have an interest in fish and fishing and they desire to fish in a lawful and recreational manner.

Boiled down, fish and fishing may be considered one of man’s essential resources. It is hoped that further realization of fishing as a hobby will develop the necessary knowledge of the true recreational value of fishing, the fish, and the general conservation of all natural resources as well as the value of good sportsmanship and developing good citizens.

Fishing as Family Activity

2007-06-10T00:02:00.000-07:00

Fishing as Family Activity

Many people love to go fishing, instead of playing tennis or golf. Others make it their primary sport activity together with their families and friends to relieve boredom and stress. Surveys say that more than 50 million Americans love to go fishing and make it their lifestyle option instead of other sports.

In Alabama, fishing represents a substantial impact on the state economy. Hundreds of millions of dollars are represented and about 20,000 people list fishing as their source of livelihood. However, most people consider it as a form of relaxation and a family activity. In general, it is a lifestyle option.

In the book titled “The Incomplete Psychology of Everyday Fishing;” psychologist Paul G. Quinnett dedicated an entire chapter about fishing as a source to relieve stress. In the chapter, “Ethics of Fishing” he points out that a person must appreciate and enjoy the benefits of nature. He also highlighted that fishing correct is a way for an individual to become more disciplined in his lifestyle.

“Family Life First,” an organization dedicated to introducing how to spend useful family time to parents for their children, have factual data that in the past 20 years, 25 percent of a child’s playing time has decreased. Outdoor activities, where most children spend their playing time, have also declined by 50 percent. Since 1969 to 1996, 22 percent of family time activities have lessened proven by the study of the White House Council of Economic Advisers.

Any fruitful time to interact with your children is time worth investing. Fishing is a way to connect. The quality time you get is really worth the effort. The experience you get by catching fish is what makes it wonderful to enjoy and that is the important part of fishing. There are 23 public fishing lakes having plenty of fish waiting to be caught. All children can experience the excitement and adventure of fishing. You will always remember the very first time you caught a fish, and the parent who showed you how to catch it. You gain enjoyable and learning experiences from fishing that makes it a great family activity.

Alabama, for example, promotes its lakes and open banks as places best for fishing. You do not even need a boat to catch fish. There are also stores where you can find what you need for fishing. You may bring your family with you and the time of being together and enjoying the fun of fishing is the best family activity you could have.

Learning how to Fish

2007-06-09T11:21:00.002-07:00

Learning how to Fish

You have decided that you want to learn to fish. There are several ways of learning, the hardest being trial and error. It would be best to find an instructor for one-on-one lessons.

1. Buy seasickness medication

Nothing is worse than ruining your fishing because of seasickness. Most seasickness medication e.g. Bonine would be fine. Even seasoned fishermen are known to take some on rough days. Take one before you go to sleep, another when you wake up and a third one before you board.

2. Buy a reference book

A lot of good books are available at your bookstores and online. The book should give you instructions as well as terms and definitions. Some things you may not immediately understand but you should know anyway. Learn how to tie different kinds of knots. This knowledge will be invaluable for other purposes throughout your life.

3. Go to a party

There are party boats that carry from fifteen to as many as sixty anglers. The boat provides everything like bait, rod, reel, sinkers and hooks. They assist you in fishing and take the fish off the hook for you. Mates will spot you and will generally stay close to assist you. Party boats generally will cost you $25 - $70 a day, and the fish are yours to keep. The party boat is a bargain for beginners.

4. Pick your pier

Assuming you have already acquired skills to operate a rod and reel, you need to look for a fishing pier.
Majority of coastal cities have one public pier or pay-to-fish pier. You can rent tackle and buy bait at the piers. If you're having trouble, there are many pier anglers willing to help and give you tips.

5. Party or pier

You may want to do either step three or four or both at this point. The best thing to do is to do both several times to really learn.

6. The reel deal

The conventional reel is probably what you're using up to this point. The conventional reel is designed for a lot of wear and tear. You may now want to consider other types and makes of reels. Ideally you have met people and perhaps made a friend or two who can assist you in selecting a reel. You can even ask a tackle shop owner for tips.

You need to understand the mechanics of the reel and the other equipment. Learning to cast, tie knots and bait are not that complicated. Secondly, you need to learn where to fish. Successful fishermen know where the fish are located. Fish move from place to place and knowledgeable anglers understand these patterns and are able to anticipate where the fish are located.

Deep Sea Fishing Tips

2007-06-09T11:21:00.001-07:00

Deep Sea Fishing Tips

Deep sea fishing is a wonderful and extremely enjoyable activity. Here are some tips that will make your salt water fishing adventure even better.

1. Watch the signs

If you see birds e.g. Seagulls that are feasting on small bait-type fishes, there are probably larger game-type fish below the surface of the water. Also, look for floating wood or debris. In most cases when you chance upon a large floating wood, you would find a large game fish in the area even encountering dolphin.

2. Stop, Snook and Listen

Fishing for snooks is quite similar as fishing for bass. Snooks like to be around ledges, posts and rocks.

3. Crabs for full moon

During full moons use soft crab imitations as bait. That's the time when crabs shed their shells and stripers come looking for them.

4. If you're looking for tunas, find the dolphins

Yellowfin tuna are usually found schooling with dolphins. So if you see a group of dolphins, chances are there are some tuna in the area.

5. Cut and Burn

If you have trouble cutting through a spiderwire braid, try using a lighter or a match.

6. Good Reef

The best place to fish is near reefs since big game fish feed on fish that live on reefs.

7. The Circle Hook

Use a circle hook if you would like a higher hook up ratio. These hooks guarantees more catch, because of the minute gap, and the reverse point. They are generally better for the fish since they do not hook in the gut just the lip.

8. Don’t have sea legs

Watch the horizon and stay on deck. These would generally help you if you're having trouble with sea sickness: Stay away from the boat fumes, breathing it only exacerbates the problem.

9. Anchors away

When your anchor is stuck at the bottom, try attaching a float to it. Return after the tide has changed in direction. This should be enough to loosen the anchor.

10. Fish where the fish are

A lot of fisherman have the idea that they should be catching their live baits over the reefs before going to deep waters. If the live baits are not in the area you're planning to catch the larger games, then why would you come up with the idea that the large fish are there. Wouldn't they be in the area where the bait fish are?

The Best Way To Cook Your Freshly Caught Fish

2007-06-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

The Best Way To Cook Your Freshly Caught Fish

A freshly caught fish can be cooked in a thousand and one ways. Any fisherman worth his salt has his own unique way of cooking a freshly caught trout, salmon or whatever fish he caught. So fisherman all across the country has been handed down methods of cooking fish. Here are some tips to get the best out of your fish.

1.Frying

Breading and frying a freshly caught fish is as good as it gets. The smell of butter emanating from the frying pan and the flair a fisherman puts in flipping his catch is worth its weight in gold, almost. For the novice fisherman, make sure that the butter is extra hot but not yet burning. Also, make sure that the fish is well coated in batter. Season your batter to your heart's content, salt and pepper never goes wrong. You may want to try other herbs and spices with the batter for a more delicious fish.

2.Grilling

At first glance, grilling would seem to be the easiest way to handle your fish. A newbie might assume that grilling fish is the same as grilling steaks or burgers. Unlike fowl or cattle, fish tends to secret most of its own juices when cooked. On a grill the delicious juice drips into the coals.

To prevent losing the moisture, first coat the fish with oil. The oil will seal a part of the moisture inside. Second, keep an eye on the fillets and turn them as soon as a cut would reveal that the fresh fish is cooked halfway through. After being flipped, watch the fish carefully. Remove the fish as soon as it is cooked through.

An option to basting the fish with oil is to wrap it in aluminum foil. The aluminum foil will keep the moisture and marinate the fish in its own moisture. Placing herbs and spices inside the foil with the fish enhances the grilling process and the fish itself.

3.Baking

Baking is the best option for the fisherman who does not want to watch over the fish during cooking. The fisherman can prepare the marinade and pre-heat the oven, then pop the fish into the oven for a predetermined amount of time. You may want to check on the fish from the time to time, ensuring that you don't overcook the fish.

Whatever fish you caught, a good recipe and proper cooking will for sure enhance the catch. Take time to prepare for cooking, a badly cooked fish will no doubt spoil your day. Remember the first rule of cooking, don't overcook your fish.

Fresh Caught Fish Cooking Preparation

2007-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

Fresh Caught Fish Cooking Preparation

To maintain the delicate flavor of a newly caught freshwater or saltwater fish, this must be handled properly to avoid spoilage. Not to mention preserving the fish with pleasing odor. There are ways to properly prepare and maintain the quality just after the catch of the fish into a sumptuous fishmeal. Check out the tips below:

1) As soon as the fish lands avoid any contact with hard surfaces to prevent bruising. It should be washed immediately by hosing or bucket rinsing in order to remove the slime and possible bacteria that cause spoilage. Never use water from close proximity marinas, municipal or industrial discharges. To make sure, always use potable water instead.

2) Simply chill the fish to prevent deterioration in less than an hour. With a little advance planning, proper icing can be accomplished with the use of some relatively cheap equipment. Fish should be stored in coolers and should be well chilled. It should be 3" deep, thus, covering a pound of fish with pound of ice. Use chlorinated water per quart of water for the final rinsing.

3) Clean the fish as soon as possible. Their tissues are sterile but not their scales, which contains many types of bacteria. When cleaning fish, avoid rough treatment because wounds in the flesh can allow the spread of bacteria. Gutting the fish does not have to be necessarily long. It is wise to cut the belly, as it leaves no blood or viscera in the body. Make sure not to soak cleaned fish fillets in a prolonged freshwater as this could reduce the meat texture and flavor.

4) The eating quality and nutritional value of fish can be maintained up to 5 days if properly cleaned. Washing of the hands before touching the fish is also important. No matter what fish and the cooking technique used, one golden rule is to be followed always. Whether it is whole or not, cook exactly 10 minutes for every inch measured. 15 minutes should be allotted to fish enclosed in foil or sauce baked. Double the time for frozen fish.

Allow extra time if fish will be baked while packed in an aluminum foil and allow extra time for the penetration of the heat. That should be an additional 5 minutes for fresh fish and 10 for frozen. In thawing frozen fish, slowly thaw in the fridge for 24 hours or let the wrapped fish be run under cold water not at room temperature. Do not thaw a fish that's frozen before cooking as it may make it mushy and dry.

“Fishing Kit Basics”

2007-06-09T11:15:00.002-07:00

“Fishing Kit Basics”

Before going deeper into the technicalities, make sure that a fishing license is secured. To be an amateur fisherman there are basic pieces of fishing equipment needed to complete your exciting journey in the fishing world. Knowing the line type and matching the right rod and reel to the fishing technique is just basic common sense. Match these tools appropriately and expect a more enjoyable experience for a more comfortable fishing. There are several things that causes the reel to turn into a bird's nest, don't worry, even experienced fishermen encounter this every now and then.

The main objective is to match the rod, the reel, the line and the lure. These will only cost a newbie around $25 to $40 and they could last for years. The 3 main issues when shopping for a rod are: Guides that are attached to the rod; Grip or handle holds the rod and could come in either cork or foam. They come in different lengths so the comfort to the user must be considered; and the reel seat where the reel is connected.

Dealers make a lot of fishing rods that could either be single or consist of two or more pieces when assembled. The connection is very simple; just connect the male and female ends together to make sure the guides are lined up. This would only last for a minutes. Sometimes, lubricants are needed. When shopping for a rod, slightly bend it to get the feel of it. Again comfort should be considered when using the equipment.

Rods of any type will work. It should be around 6' long and medium weight. Even a long stick will work. This should be long, straight and flexible so it will not easily break. The most popular rod is Graphite because it is so light yet so strong. Wispy rods should be up to 4m long to be used for long casts in moderate winds.

There are a lot of fishing lines to choose from and it can be very confusing to find the best. It is mostly made of nylon and "monofilament" that comes in spools of different lengths that are called Tests. The larger the fishing line the thicker it is in diameter. Find a piece of a 4lb. or 4 lb. Test that is almost 10' long for the basic rig.

The basic rule is that all the gears should match. To summarize your fishing kit, it should include other stuff as well: net, stringer, line clippers, fishing knife, first aid box, a pail of bait, sunglasses, fishing hat, and talking about the basics, don't forget your SNACKS!

"Picking The Right Boat"

2007-06-09T11:15:00.001-07:00

"Picking The Right Boat"

There are two questions that should be considered when choosing the right boat: "What will be the fishing for?" and "where will the fishing activities be?" Always look for the signs of quality check the carpet and the compartments - they could be plastic, metal or fiberglass. Look at the little but very important things like the 1000 GPH bilge pump, the six gauge wiring instead of ten or eight that is because heavier wires gives more power from the battery up to the trolling motor.

There is Five Star Advantage that ranger dealers often speak to their customers: Quality, Safety, Innovation, Performance, and Value. Below is a list of “must have” things when buying your first boat.

Tow Vehicle - This is one of the most important piece of your equipment, ensured that has the rating to get the job done like loading up to 3500 lbs. of weight that could easily pull the boat up the hills and mountainous treks.

Bass Boats - For first timers, consider a second hand boat. This will be a trial and error stage where fishing skills can be tested. Consider a larger boat, which is about 19 feet with 20 to 30 miles speed for larger bodies of water.

Aluminum - In smaller lakes, a 16-18 foot aluminum boat is a good choice. It is cheaper than fiberglass and more forgiving of bangs, running up into shallows and hitting stumps and rocks. The only downside is that it rides rougher even with the slightest winds.

Fiberglass - This two-stroke engine is much more expensive which could cost from $20,000 to as much as $50,000. The good thing with this boat is that it could handle bigger, rougher water and still give you a smooth ride.

Brand new versus Second Hand - Buying a second hand boat is not only cheaper but holds their value longer and better. The downside is that you'll probably inherit someone else's troubles. During casual inspection, outboard engines problems are not easily identified. The best thing to do is bring someone you trust with you to inspect a prospective boat or buy from someone you know instead.

Handling the Boat - Listen to the pitch change when trimming down. Although it will be very difficult for beginners like trying to launch and retrieve the boat backing it down the ramp. Never worry, because everyone passed that stage and there's no boat owner that is not willing to help a first timer learn. Sometimes all it takes is just 4 hours to learn the basics.

Buying a dreamboat is very exciting. It is not the boat that really matters but the experiences that come with fishing.

Catfishing the Right But Simple Way

2007-06-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

Catfishing the Right But Simple Way

There are a few basic methods that are effective in catching catfish. Bear in mind that specific methods are applicable to specific kinds of waters. That is because techniques and baiting mixtures are formulated for specific targets.

The following methods are simple, yet proven successful when used:

1) Rigging method - Depending on the bait used, loop the bait holder or the treble hook from a line to a preferred distance to the end. Bait movement is not suggested; therefore, a weight must be used to allow the rig to be still. A good distance shall be about 18" to 24."

Same as the first method, using the Slipweight to make the bait stable is also effective. The weight does not matter as long as it can slide in the line. The fish will not feel any weight and it will be late until they realize that the bait is fake.

Multibait technique allows multiple catches at once. Simply place three-way swivel along the line. As it draws more strikes it makes a great choice for catching more catfish at the same time.

2) Bait - Experts opt for chicken livers or medium sized shrimp from groceries. The shrimp's tail and skin must be removed and body should be big enough to slide up in a number 6 hook. This is simpler than the chicken which necessitates the use of pantyhose. A diameter of a quarter is wrapped in a piece of pantyhose leaving a tag end then attach it through the treble hook. Blood worms, minnows, catfish paste, night crawlers, snails, living or dead small fish, and dough baits are also good choices of baits. Remember that the best baits are always those that nature produced.

3) Chumming - Fishermen catch more catfish with this method. This is simply throwing balls of mixtures of natural recipes in the fishing area. This attracts more catfish; the trick is that the mixture should be right enough for the catfish to feed heavily. The hook that will be used to fish normally must have the same recipe for the bait. Adding a good smelling flavor into the pasty mixture attracts catfish more.

4) Tackling - Although the technique involved in this method is by far effective, it's still the bait that attracts and brings the catfish in. As simple as it is, the tackle should be about 6 feet long with a spinning real. Choose heavier lines to allow more battle between the fisherman and the catfish. It doesn't necessarily have to be expensive. The experience you get from a cheaper tackle is no different from an expensive one.

Make sure the grip is secure hooks are removed by pliers after catching the fish. Avoid being stuck with the fins as some are poisonous. Just simply sliding the hand up to its belly from tail, placing the fingers behind one side and thumb behind the other can remove the catfish from the hook without any harm. Happy catfishing and good luck!

Basic Carp Fishing Pointers

2007-06-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

Basic Carp Fishing Pointers

Frustrating as it is, carp fishing is awesome. Carp are really good at sucking in and blowing out suspicious baits. It’s such an excitement to see the whole action in a fraction of a second as you hang on for dear life while the reel is trembling with a loud noise.

Carp happily devour on the surface as long as you keep the pellets, biscuits, chic peas, bread, and re-hydrated corn coming in, and these are inexpensive baits as well. Just attach them to the hooks, most preferably the bread. Have the biscuits softened by dipping it in the water for about 2 minutes, then, place them in a sealed sandwich bag for about an hour. Since different brands have different textures, just experiment to know which is firm enough to cast. Another way to hook baits is super gluing the pellet into the shank.

Once they get into feeding, let them feel comfortable around the bait. This gives more opportunity for the fisherman since they begin to not feel picky. This tactic can be useful for zig rigs.

As soon as they’re feeding, cast the bait but make sure not to drop the bait directly onto the feeding carp. Cast away from the feeding area then slowly draw it in position. While the bait is till hanging, keep the food coming in so as to keep the carp from going away.

How to Set-Up?

• Use a hair rig to increase your chance of catching. As carp taste food first, if they don’t like the taste, they won’t come near it.
• You may also use a Spider Line, 50 lbs test, then use a leader material that fits the situation.
• Thread the bait on the baiting needle and hook the hair loop. You may also use foam dipped in a flavor as this enhances the attractiveness of the bait.
• Also make a baiting needle by just straightening a long shank hook. Slide the bait on the shank, then slide the bait from the needle onto the hair.
• Using a float is also an advantage because it adds weight for further distancing and the location is easily identified.
• Don’t forget the controller float rig. A leader can be used which is attached to the swivel to its mainline of at least 3 feet length with a 10lbs Drennan double strength. A low diameter mono will do just as long as it floats well enough for visibility.

As experts say, it is not the bait that catches the carp but the method in which the bait is introduced. Pre-bait everyday, in one spot for a few days. This makes the carp think that there is a regular source of food for them and by “word of mouth” there’ll soon be a school of fish around. Just be patient and it will all work.

BEST LURES TO USE IN FISHING

2007-06-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

BEST LURES TO USE IN FISHING

The evolution of fishing gear and accessories along with the development of the bass fishing industry brought about the development of various lures specifically used for different fish species.

There are many types or class of lures and they all depend on what type of fish works for them. Many only work for specific types but some cover a wide range of species of fish.

Below are some of the typical lures used for fishing.

Light Standard Casting Lures

For Standard casting lures, they are mostly able to attract a wide range of fish varieties from albacore, bluefish, bonita, oho and crappies. These lures are also excellent for certain species of bass fish and work best when retrieved from water at low to medium speed. They pass through water with undetectably synthetic material.

Their sizes are excellent for lightweight fish and a host of freshwater species. They range from 1/16 oz. to 3 oz.

The hand painted eye is enticing enough to allow schooling of fish. This feature allows for more chances of trapping one of the target fish in the water.

Heavy Standard Casting Lures

Heavy Standard Casting Lures are excellent for quite heavy fish specifically, walleye and bass. While the lightweight lures are used in most circumstances, it was shown that heavy counterparts provide more reliable fishing output.

Moreover, the heavy standard lures are able to catch fish than diamond and light standard casting lures.

Long Casting/Jigging Lures

Perhaps the most popular among the fishing lures are the long, tapered jigging lures. They are perhaps the most commonly used fishing lures among the fishermen in Florida, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Just recently, it was found out that the long casting lures work best for catching trout and pike. They were also found to effectively catch stripers and bluefish. They can catch tuna and walleye in a breeze!

Unlike heavy standard lures, this gear won’t produce good fish-catch output up to 180-200 ft under water but be sure to effectively match your lure color, bait and related accessories to maximize performance.

Deadly Diamond Lures

These lures are one of the smallest with sizes ranging from 1/8 to 1oz. They can seamlessly attract attention among fish and could form a school of fish in a minute!

The reason is it lies on its structural surface formation and cut. The top handle is cut like a diamond and causes the reflection of light striking on its surface. The diamond lures are best for catching bass fish varieties, crappie and stripers although they work on a small range of fish species.

Excellent Fishing Rods for that Perfect Fishing Experience

2007-06-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Excellent Fishing Rods for that Perfect Fishing Experience

Today’s fishing rods have incorporated modern features that are not typical of the more primitive cane pole. Modern fishing rods contain reels, which aid in the retrieval of fish caught in its bait.

A much-sophisticated feature is the spinning rod where the entire shaft of the rod except the handle can move around on its axis to allow flexibility when fish caught on snare bait struggles through the water.

Like the classic cane fishing rods, the fishing gadget is thick at the handle (bottom) and is tapered and thinner at the tip. This very basic design allows handling stability and flexible movement of the entire length of the shaft.

Types of Fishing Rods and Specifications

A typical fishing rod measures 6 and 16 feet (2 and 5 m) and vary in capability to tolerate strain in fishing activity. The length has a lot to do with withstanding force exerted by the fish to the pole and determines for the most part the performance of rods used for angling.

Cane Poles

Cane poles are one of the smallest and less sophisticated gadgets in fishing. It is usually made of bamboo or other flexible wood material with the most basic fly line attached to it.

Unlike other more sophisticated fishing rods, cane poles do not usually contain reels or its equivalent to be used for reeling in or retrieving fish caught on bait. This very same action is known as angling.

Spinning Rods

These types of rods are the most popular today. They can be used either for heavyweight or lightweight fish although they were proven best for trout, walleye and bass fish. They vary in measurements from 5 and 7 feet (1.5 and 2.5 m).

Spinning poles are commonly used in bass fishing competition accounting for their flexibility and tolerance to stress. They accommodate bigger and tougher fly lines and stabilize them to avoid line tangles during uncoiling of float lines.

Jigging Rods

These rods are best for heavy lures and baits especially when reaching around 180 to 200 feet under the ocean’s surface. They are made of fine, solid materials which accounts to their heaviness. The use of jigging rods is specifically due to alternating currents during the fishing activity.

Some oceans have erratic undersea current. That is why the bait and fly lines should be kept in place. Lures are also disturbed and cause confusion among fish if the lines are not long and heavy enough to withstand and tolerate water currents under the sea.

These rods are best for target fishes usually found dwelling at the bottom of the sea such as halibut and cods.

BASS FISHING FACTS AND MORE

2007-06-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

BASS FISHING FACTS AND MORE

Bass fishing has a fascinating history. It started in the late 18th century and continues to progress until today.

It probably was originally practiced in search for food among the people in the south of the United States. Since then, it has started gaining numerous audiences of all ages and nations. Today, countries such as Australia, Cuba, South Africa, United States and most of Europe participate in this kind of event.

Timelines

• The year 1768 or 1770 represents the birth of bass fishing sports. Onesimus Ustonson introduced his first multiplying reels to the fishing gurus and lovers. It was later developed into bait caster.

• William Shakespeare Jr. materializes the production of a level wind device and secured its patent on 1897.

• The William J. Jamison Co introduced the overly ornamented Shannon Twin Spinner in 1915 and was improved to create today’s spinner baits.

• In 1932, President Franklin D. Roosevelt instituted the creation of Tennessee Valley Authority and encouraged the creation and building of numerous dams. These dams were later used for culturing different varieties of bass fishes.

• Five years later, DuPont Company filed patent for nylon fishing net, this was later developed into nylon monofilament fishing line.

• The year 1992 is one of the most glorious events in the history of bass fishing. Larry Nixon, the famous fisherman in the history of bass fishing won $1 M total earnings for this sport on this year.

Bass Fish

Several fish species that are being caught in the bass fishing events are the following:

• Micropterus salmoides (Lacepede) - Largemouth Bass
• Micropterus dolomieui - Smallmouth bass
• Micropterus punctatus - Kentucky Bass

Other species of Micropterus are also caught but one that remains popular is the Largemouth bass. However, it should be emphasized that Australian Bass are different from the above North American Bass variants although most share similar features.

Perhaps, the most robust success of Bass Fishing was in the 1950s. The popularity of the game during this period is the springboard to the development of modern fishing equipments from bass boats, rods, lines, lures and various fishing gears.

Electronic gears were also incorporated among the host of equipments bass fishers used at that time. Reels of different types, which function in hauling and hoisting, were also created.

The contribution of bass fishing industry to the US economy records $50 to $70 Billion and the number continues to grow. Statistics show that the audience base of this sport is increasing and that more and more people are getting interested in it compared to tennis and golf.

Tips for Archery Fishing

2007-06-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

Tips for Archery Fishing

Also known as Bow fishing, this is a sport wherein a fisherman uses archery equipment to fish.

A regular hunting bow can be used for fishing by simply attaching a reel to the front of the bow grip.

Archery fishing is especially favored by regular hunters when regular game like deer are off season. This way they can continuously hone their skills for whatever season it may be.

Before engaging in archery fishing, one must first take into consideration the following:

1. A fisherman must be duly licensed. Some states require that an individual have a state license to fish.

2. Equipment. Most states have a predetermined set of approved equipment for archery fishing.

3. Archery Safety Course. Still, some states require that an individual go through an approved safety course for archery fishing to ensure that the individual is well versed with the proper safety precautions and information regarding applicable laws in fishing.

4. Seasons. Bow fishing in some states can only be done in certain seasons. This is to allow the fish to spawn.

5. Species of fish. Some states have rules forbidding archery fishing for some species of fish.

The following skills are necessary for an individual to obtain and practice:

Knot tying. Though it may seem like a simple task, tying knots that will not slip (line for the arrow) are crucial in bow fishing.

Tuning. Tuning is making sure that the bow is at its best working condition. To ensure this, one has to continuously adjust the rest and calibrate the nock.

For a faster tuning process, one may shoot a regular bow-fishing arrow (without the tip) onto a target made of cardboard.

Marksmanship or targeting. Bow fishing and bow hunting, though similar on some aspects, really do differ on many things. Arrows for bow fishing are heavier, have larger arrow tips and, the most obvious one, has a string attached to the arrow.

And since fish are shot in the water, resistance differs as when compared to shooting in the air (for bow hunting of games)

There are various methods or ways of archery fishing. This includes the following:

1. Still hunting. A fisherman selects a place by the lake in which he would wait for passing fish to shoot its bow at.

2. Stalking. This can be done on foot or while on a boat. One is in constant motion in an attempt to locate fish.

3. Ambush. Fish that are best ambushed are the ones that are spawning since they tend to crowd thus increasing chances of target.

Tips in fishing for salmons in Alaska

2007-06-09T11:03:00.000-07:00

Tips in fishing for salmons in Alaska

Alaska is known as one of the most bountiful areas with salmon, and is ideal for fishing trips.

This is because of extreme tides along the West Coast and the gush of ocean currents that create an environment ideal for the breeding of thousands of baitfish.

It is also known as one of the best places to go if one wants to fish for giant King Salmon, the largest specie of salmon fish.

The best way to catch these giant salmon (in saltwater) is through trolling or by angling a baited line drawn into the water.

Fishing for giant King Salmon can be a year round activity (especially in Seward).

The most sought-after species of salmon are the following:

1. The King Salmon (Chinook) are the largest of all these species. Its weight averages between 20-40 pounds, the heaviest recorded of which is 112 pounds, and can be as long as 3-4". It has a blue-green back that is lightly spotted.

The average life span of a Chinook Salmon is about five to seven years.

Its flesh can range in color from ivory white to a deep red.

Common names for this specie of salmon include tyee, springs, mouth/kings quinnat and tule.

2. Silver Salmon (Coho) on the other hand is slightly smaller with an average weight of 8-12 pounds.

These specie prefer small streams in which to spawn between the months of July to November.

3. Sockeye salmon, on the other hand, are the most sought-after of its entire species because its flesh has a color of deep red and it has a firm rich flavor.

In fishing for salmon in Alaska, one has to be well equipped with the right equipment (and donned with the appropriate apparel).

Listed below are some of the needed equipment/materials and tips for hassle-free fishing:

1. You must be clad in layers of warm clothes (not necessarily bulky ones as it can hinder in the fishing activity).

2. Over these everyday clothes, a waterproof overall, boots and bibs are likewise necessary to ensure that one would stay dry since after a hook-up, some fish may resist with maximum struggles.

3. Fleet or cruisers that offer services for fishing are usually stocked with bait.

4. A guide on board a cruiser ensures that even amateur fishermen will enjoy the activity by providing crash-lessons onboard. They usually hook the bait for the guest and inform the party as to where specific species of fish may thrive for selective fishing.

Alaska Fishing Lodge: The Nature’s Abode

2007-06-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

Alaska Fishing Lodge: The Nature’s Abode

Recreation is an important aspect in the life of human beings. Anglers represent the major group of leisure seekers, and have a determined advantage over the other groups who make use of nature’s wonderful creatures and elements for food.

Consequently, the popularity of fishing in many areas had continuously dominated the society. That is why along with its series of activities, people now realize the need for fishing lodges especially in places where fishing activities seem to never end.

Among all fishing lodges available in the industry today, the Alaska Fishing Lodges are among the most treasured and most popular fishing lodges in the United States.

The Alaska Fishing Lodge provides its customers full customer service satisfaction with their wide array of fishing activities and endless strings of fishing fun.

Normally, Alaska Fishing Lodges are made up of logs; sturdily build to provide each angler optimum convenience and comfort. It is known for its spacious interiors, creatively decorated with the right embellishments, thereby, setting the mood for fishing and wilderness.

In addition, because it carries the true Alaskan heritage, Alaska Fishing Lodges offer services and products that can be afforded by anyone. With its affordable rates, the place is inhabited by people, who mostly want to enjoy life and fishing but cannot afford to buy the pleasures in expensive beaches and lodges.

Best of all, Alaska Fishing Lodges are perfectly located in areas where the waters are abundant with the different species of fish. Usually, these lodges are situated in a place where trout, northern pike, and grayling mostly inhabit the waters.

On the other hand, most Alaska Fishing Lodges are built big enough to occupy 16 guests, in which each guest can avail of personal and individualized services.

Moreover, this type of lodge also houses a place where king salmon are abundant especially during the months of June and early part of July. Most lodges also provide a wide variety of fishing equipment, from rods to tackles and lines.

With all these beautiful features present in every Alaska Fishing Lodge, there is no better place to enjoy fishing and the wilderness like what this particular lodge can offer.

Staying in an Alaska Fishing Lodge is, indeed, an ultimate fishing experience.