by Beau Lester

Fishing is one of the oldest hobbies in existence. Some use it for recreation and others use it as a food source. No matter what you use it for, your success in fishing is based on a mix of the right equipment and knowledge. You can find out more about fishing in this article.

If you are new to fishing, don't buy the most expensive rod and reel right off the bat. This might be a hobby that you enjoy for a lifetime, or it might be one that you stop enjoying after one fishing trip. The beginning angler should easily be able to meet their needs for less than $100.

Make sure that you research the laws in your state so that you know everything that needs to be done before a trip. Many states require you to have a fishing license before you are allowed to go onto the water. Most fishing areas have additional rules, so you need to make sure you are aware of those as well.

If possible, try and obtain lake or stream reports before going out on the water. Fishing reports are a great way to see whether the fish are active on any particular body of water, and if so, what the best methods for catching them are. Use the information you read to your advantage.

To catch the big fish lurking in the milfoil, use a lure that works around it instead of through it. Lures that snag milfoil will be less palatable to fish. Instead of using a sinker, go with a lighter, floating lure that you can skim along the top of the weeds to lure fish out.

Do not use bait on any fish that you do not intend to keep. This is because a lot of fish tend to swallow the bait with the hook attached, and you could really hurt the fish if you try to remove it. If that does happen then you should cut the line near the mouth before you let it go.

Never jerk a fish around who has a hook in his mouth, even if you don't intend to keep it. This rough motion often tears the flesh around the mouth or will inflict internal injury if the hook has been partially swallowed. Gently wiggle the hook in opposing directions until you can work it completely free. The little one you throw back today may turn into the big one you are proud to catch in the future.

Do not eat any fish that you catch from polluted waters. Many times, these fish have diseases or illnesses that could cause you to get very sick. Only eat fish that have been caught from clean areas and make sure they are properly cleaned and cooked before you eat it.

As stated before, fishing is a hobby that has been around for many years. People fish for different reasons, such as, food and recreation. A mix of the right equipment and knowledge is needed to catch fish successfully, and this article has shared some useful tips so that you can catch more fish, so make sure you use them.

About the Author

Beau Lester - How to fish?