Do crappie thoughts ever cloud your mind before you embark on a fishing trip? Do you flounder around when trying to fish? If fish laugh at you when you’re trying to catch them, it is time for you to learn how to become a better fisherman. Keep reading to learn some simple ways to begin catching those bothersome bass in no time at all!
If you are fishing in a river or lake, near the shore can be an ideal spot to cast. Fish often inhabit the shore because this is where the insects they feed on are usually located. Be mindful of weeds, however.
Using sinkers is advised while fishing during the winter time. A sinker carries your bait to the bottom where fish are during cold weather. The number and size of sinkers used depends on your line and upon the depth of the water in which you are fishing.
It’s important to check on the weather before you set out to make sure that your fishing trip will be safe and productive. Since weather can rapidly change, you should take a weather radio with you so you can keep on top of current weather conditions.
Chart fish migration habits in order to decide whether to fish downhill or uphill at a given time of the year. When fishing during the springtime, for example, casting uphill will allow you to position your lure ahead of your prey. Fish downhill in the fall because that’s the direction the fish are moving in.
In most instances live bait that is native to the area will catch more fish. Local insects are the natural diet of fish. Fish will more likely bite bait that you can also catch at the water’s banks. Fishermen appreciate costly lures more than the fish.
An often-overlooked tackle box necessity is a sharp knife. As simple as it may seem, a knife is highly functional and can help you in a number of sticky situations. Ensure that your knife is sharp, rust-resistant and of a high quality.
Anyone graduating from earthworms should consider a spinnerbait. These lures are especially effective when used in shady areas, in the murky, shallow water near a dock, and in cover. Bass tend to be attracted to spinnerbait, but so do crappies.
Wet the line prior to tying a knot. Not only will this reduce the amount of friction you experience as you tie the knot, it will also make the knot as a whole much stronger. You should use either a double fisherman’s knot or a clinch knot.
Proper care of your boat’s battery is essential. Every year, remove your boat battery and store it in your garage or basement in an area that will remain dry during the off-season. However, be careful not to leave the battery on a concrete floor since the extreme cold will shorten the life of the battery.
Small-mouth bass and walleye may be rather picky when it comes to bait. Take along around two dozen leeches for those time when you need a variety of bait. Leeches can survive overnight if you keep them in a plastic or Styrofoam container. Make sure it is well-ventilated and contains an inch or two of water.
If you plan to release a fish, don’t fight it too hard. A long battle to reel the fish in can injure or even kill the fish. Let the fish go immediately, instead of potentially killing it during a fight.
Stay calm when you have a fish on your line. You can bet a fight is in store between you and the big fellow snagged on your hook; however, the last thing you should do is attempt to immediately reel the big guy in because you risk damaging your fishing rod and/or losing the fish. You should set your drag and wait for the fish to get tired before you can gently reel it in.
When bass fishing, become an expert on the location. Develop a feeling for the parts of the stream or pond that the bass frequent most often. Pay attention to both the locations and the times of day where the fish are found. Bass react differently to bait and lures than other fish.
When using worms and night crawlers for bait, it’s crucial that you thread it on your hook with care. Using the threading technique will help to catch more fish without losing your bait. You should also use as small of a hook as you can.
If your worms have a salted coating on them, you should enhance their flavor every third cast. This is doubly important when fishing in fast-moving or murky water. To “resalt” your worm all you have to do is rub it between your hands a couple times.
While you may want your child to have an authentic and exciting fishing adventure, safety must always be your main priority. Do not allow small children to bait their own hooks. Explain how the hooks are sharp and can be dangerous, and so they should learn by watching you.
Now that you’ve learned what you need to know to become the lake’s new overlord, it’s time to go out and take control of your domain. The tips that you read here will help you gain the upper hand on your next fishing adventure, and soon, you will be catching those big, tasty fish.