Planning to go on a fishing trip with your buddies? If this is your first time, you will need a few things to make your experience last.
No matter what type of fishing you are doing, there are certain gear essentials that you will need to be successful. Here’s a list to help you get started:
Rod and Reel
This is the most important piece of equipment for fishing. This equipment comes in various sizes. It’s also available in manual and automatic formats. For beginners, a spin casting reel is the best. It handles a catch up to 20 lbs. For people with short height, the ideal rod length is 5ft 6inches, and for those with longer height, 6ft 6inches.
Fishing Line
One of the best fishing lines is monofilament. For panfish, trout, or crappie, try the 8 lbs test. Don’t forget to look up knots online to ensure your line does not slip while fishing.
Hooks
To ensure that the fish takes the bait, you need a sturdy and sharp hook. A small hook will easily go into a fish’s mouth. For catfish and bass, a size 1 hook is the best. As a beginner, you should buy circle hooks.
Tackle/Bait
You should choose your bait based on what you will be fishing for. Use a cup of earthworms at the start. For freshwater lakes, creeks, and ponds, try plastic baits.
Needle-nose Pliers
This is a great tool for removing hooks.
Scissors
Essential for cutting lines. Do not attempt to do this with your teeth or wrap the line around your hand.
Tackle Box
Think of a tackle box as a fishing bank. It carries all your worms and other baits. Buy a smaller one, so you can carry it around easily.
Bobbers
Avoid buying a large bobber. A small bobber will allow you to see the strikes better. Make sure that the bobber is lightweight so it pulls underwater easily.
Fishing License
In many states, you don’t need a license to fish. However, we recommend consulting the state laws whether they apply to the region you live in or not.
Fishing Net
This accessory is optional but comes in handy to ensure the catch doesn’t flap out.
Now that you know what you need in your fishing gear, let’s take a look at some beginner fishing tips:
- Use an edible marker to design your plastic bait. The color will bleed into the bait and give it an attractive appearance, which lures fishes more
- Clip your trebles
- Dress up the jogs to find which color the fishes respond to
- Use a kitchen scrubbing pad to get your hands on eels
- When using live bait in winter, clip the tail of your fish to make it sluggish
- Rig the line right and tight to prevent the bait and catch from slipping
And there you have it ― a short guide on what you need for your first fishing trip and how to catch a fish.
Get in touch with EZ Dock to build a dock outside your lake house. The company also offers various docking accessories. For more information, dial 800-654-8168.
