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?

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

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

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.

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 1/2
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.

Bass Fishing

Bass fishing is one of the most common types of fishing. Many bass fish are
found in bayou water and salt water. They also move through lakes, ponds,
reservoirs and streams. If you know the basics regarding conditions and places
where bass are likely to be, you will have more success when you fish for them.

Many variables change the location of bass, such as water conditions, water
levels, weather, and light and food availability. There are three main elements
that must be present in a body of water in order for bass to survive: Food,
oxygen, and cover.

A bass' favorite meal is crawfish, which they prefer over shad. Basically,
crawfish are usually more plentiful and they are easy for the Bass to catch.
However, a bass will typically eat anything from rats, mice, ducklings, frogs,
snakes, salamanders, worms, lizards, grubs, baitfish, insects, and leeches.
Their ability to feast on one thing above another is why many people find such
enjoyment from fishing bass.

Oxygen is another key component in finding bass fish. The basic rule of thumb
is that the cooler the water, the more oxygen content. Therefore, if you are
fishing in the spring, summer or early fall, you will find that the larger bass
will drop down lower to find the cooler and more oxygen-filled water. They will
also swim to find areas that are more concentrated in vegetation in order to
find a better oxygen source. Trees, stumps, wind-blown banks, and power plants
are all good sources of oxygen that will attract bass fish.

A bass relies on cover for a means of protection and way of ambush. Cover is
part of a bass' survival. The bass is known as a lazy fish, so they will hide
and wait for their prey to come to them. The other reason for cover is that
bass fish do not have eyelids and the cover is a way to prevent blindness. Some
common cover areas to find bass in are around fabricated wood structures such as
fencerows, docks, and pilings. They have been known to hide under floating
pieces of wood or decaying wood. Weeds are the second best place to hunt for
bass. Finally, rocks are the third place that bass will find cover. Rocks are
not as reliable as weeds or wood, but sometimes a bass will find decaying
pieces of food to feast on within some rocks. Remember that rocks do not
produce oxygen, so the source is not as consistent.

When it comes to fishing, everyone has a different opinion. You will often find
that these opinions range in location and source. However, there are some lures
and baits that are recommended for bass fishing that may be useful if you
haven't tried them. Tequila colored 7-inch worms with added scent are
recommended, as well as Rebel Wee-Rs. Hellgrammites are thought to be the best
live bait, and many will say that you don't need big lures to attract big bass.
Everyone will tell you to tie up to an embankment, or find a dock to get close
to, but it is really an art that could take years to perfect.

Bass are notorious for slow moving and lack of distance in their movements.
Logically, you could sit 30 feet from the biggest bass of your life, and he is
not going to swim to your bait out of pure laziness. Finding the exact spot is
difficult and a lot of fishing has to do with luck. The only part that you can
control is finding the most likely places that a bass may be and exercise some
patience. Weather is important to bass as well. If it is a cloudy day, you
might have more luck than on a hot summer day. However, overcast is probably
ideal for water temperatures, but then you have to decide what you are willing
to sit through in order to catch a fish. The bottom line with bass fishing is
you can only do your best with the knowledge at hand.

Tackle Box Must Haves

You cannot have success at any sport if you do not have the right equipment.
When people think of fishing, they automatically think of rods, reels, and
bait. However, you cannot underestimate the power of the tackle box because it
plays an important role in the success of your fishing expeditions.

Many people covet their tackle boxes because they represent a lifetime of
trials and tribulations regarding what methods work for which fish. If you are
a novice in the world of fishing, you could find yourself overwhelmed with the
possibilities and choices that are available. Starting your tackle box can seem
challenging, but if you stick to the basics, you will be able to get started
without a hitch.

The first thing that you need is to pick out a box. A tackle box should be
strong and able to handle wear and tear easily. The plastic tackle boxes are
usually thick and come with strong handles making it easier to lug back and
forth between boat, river, and pier trips. The most important thing when
deciding on a box is the latch. Your tackle box must have a sturdy latch
because you do not want everything to
spill out on the dock or into the water. When you are in a boating store, pull
on the latch and test it before you decide on a purchase.

Some essentials to keep in a tackle box are hooks, lines, and sinkers. Hooks
are an important part of fishing because without them you will not be catching
very much. The larger the number size of the hook, the smaller the hook
actually is. When you buy line, make sure that your line fits your reel. Keep
an extra spool in your box for just-in-case purposes.

Sinkers are important for helping your bait to catch fish below the surface of
the water. In order to get your line to the bottom you are going to need
split-shot sinkers. Sinkers are made from different materials, but the safest
are the ones that are made from steel, tin, and non-toxic metals. Some of the
sinkers are made from lead and they can potentially poison some types of fish.

Lures are going to be the next thing that you add to your tackle box. There are
many different types of lures ranging in all colors, shapes, sizes, and
material. Different fish are attracted to different types of lures. For
instance, a kingfish will be more attracted by a lure with glitter while a bass
will be more attracted to a worm shaped lure. Make sure to know what the fish
you are trying to catch like to eat before you buy.

Some fun gadgets that may be useful are the leaders, snap swivels, fingernail
clippers, needle-nose pliers, practice plugs, stringers, and maps. Maps are
obvious because you need to know how to get to your favorite fishing spots.
However, the other things may need some greater explanation. A leader is a
piece of line with a metal core that will keep a fish from biting off the line
and escaping. A snap swivel will prevent tangles in your line and a practice
plug is for casting. Lastly, a stringer will help you to keep your catch fresh
in the water.

Once you start fishing regularly, you will find out which lures are useful and
which one don't help at all. You will discover the tools that you use the most
and the ones that are just collecting dust. Hopefully, you will try new things
and maybe put your own spin on some old ones and build the perfect tackle box
for you.

Lure Terminology

There are many ways to lure in fish to your boat. Words like rigging, chumming,
and luring come to mind. However, there are many varieties when it comes to
lures and trying to decipher between all of them can be a confusing process. In
addition, knowing when to "chum" as oppose to "lure" can be equally challenging
when you are ready to catch the most fish that you can.

When deciding whether you should lure or chum, you should be aware of what type
of fish you are trying to catch. Chum is a mess to make, distribute and to store
so be sure that you are using it for the right reasons. Lures are used the
majority of the time, but if you are dealing with fish who heavily use their
sense of smell, lures may be a waste of time. As a general rule of thumb, chum
is used in order to bring fish to the boat and lures are generally used for
spot fishing.

When you decide to use a lure, what type do you choose? There are many
different kinds of lures and they are used in different regions for a variety
of purposes. If you learn the basics then you will not have to look like a
novice by reading the back of the package will perusing the aisles in the
stores.

A lure is defined as an object, often designed to resemble a fish's prey, and
they usually come equipped with one or more hooks that are used to catch fish.
You will attach a lure to the end of your fishing line and throw it out into
the water until a fish takes a bite. The one exception to the rule is the fly
lure, which is used to float on the water's surface mimicking the movement of
an insect. You can also troll lure behind a boat to create the appearance of a
living animal in the water. Some of the different types of lures are classified
as jigs, wobblers, spinner, spoon lures, plugs, fly lures, and worms.

Jigs are made of weighted metal heads and a tail that is made from animal hair,
soft plastic, feathers, or rubber. A minnow can sometimes to be added or a piece
of meat can be attached to the end of the hook. Jigs can be used for almost any
kind of saltwater or freshwater fishing.

A spoon is a metal lure that looks similar to a bait fish. These lures are
meant to be cast or to be trolled behind a moving vessel. The plastic belts are
the most commonly thought of baits. They are the plastic worms that are
sometimes scented in order to attract more fish. The plastic belts can be used
with or without a weight, but a jig head, spinner, or a spinner bait always
accompanies them.

Plugs are made from plastic or wood and can be used on top of the water. There
is a separate category of plugs called diving plugs that are designed to plunge
into a certain depth of the water.

The spinners have blades that spin around a wire shaft, and they are made of
plastic or animal hair. The spinner baits are the lures with more than one
blade that spin around a safety shaft. They are characterized by 'skirts',
which are made of animal hair, vinyl, rubber, and other materials.

Lastly are the poppers and flies. These baits are primarily used for panfish,
trout, and bass. Fly-tying is a harder concept to learn, making these lures
unique.

Lures are tested and decided upon by the individual. Many lures are determined
to be useful by trying them out time and time again. When you become
comfortable with a certain type of lure, you will be able to expand on its
possibilities, making it more individualized for your fishing purposes.

"Noodling": Cooking Pasta or Catching Catfish?

"Noodling" conjures up images of standing over a vat of boiling water, cooking
some kind of Italian pasta to perfection. This may be one definition of the
term, but in reference to one of the oddest fishing styles known, it refers to
the art of fishing for catfish using only bare hands and a big stick for
prodding purposes. That is correct; using only your bare hands to feel your way
along the mud-caked bottom of a river in search of a catfish is called noodling.
Better still, these catfish can weigh an awful lot.

Noodling, also referred to as grabbling, is legal only in certain states and
was practiced by Native Americans long before the settlement of Europeans. To
experience noodling you must plan a trip south to Arkansas, North Carolina or
Mississippi. During the Depression, it was rumored grabbling became popular as
a rapid and inexpensive manner of providing food for the family. Today,
grabbling as a means of fishing for flathead, channel and blue catfish is
mainly for entertainment, as most grabblers practice catch-and-release.

From late May to July, when the days lengthen and water temperatures become
warmer, catfish seek out shallow water to lay their eggs. Sheltered secluded
locations are preferred such as boat ramps, holes in rocks and sandbanks. Once
the female catfish lays her eggs, she departs the nest, leaving the male
catfish to guard the eggs and keep them aerated. The male will not leave the
nest until the baby catfish are ready to leave as well. Catfish are very
aggressive during spawning season. For this reason, care must be taken to avoid
becoming victim to that aggression when noodling.

Locate bedding catfish by running your bare hands along the river bottom in
search of an opening. For a bottom-feeding fish, the catfish is rather clean
and delicate. Openings are easy to find because the catfish will continue to
clear its home and area. Some experienced grabblers plan their trips during the
winter when water levels are low, where it is possible to see potential
hideaways that will soon be submerged. They then return to these locations
during spawning season.

An angry growling sound, described by some as a "thump", lets you know you have
located your prey. Submerging yourself is required for a good portion of the
grabbling expedition; clearly, the longer you are able to hold your breath, the
easier it is to grabble. Once a spawning location has been identified, use a big
stick to guide the catfish out of the nest to within arms reach.

Now knowing where your prey is, place your hand with outstretched fingers into
the hole. The catfish will quickly become angered at your intrusion and will
strike out, either hitting your hand or grabbing your hand while biting it with
its mouth. He may clamp on to your hand and attempt to pull you into the hole,
hence the need for additional assistance when attempting grabbling. Once he
bites, grab him with both hands on his lower jaw, wrap your legs around him if
necessary and pull him completely out of the water. Twisting and rolling is
sure to ensue, but perseverance will ensure your victory.

Clearly, "noodling" is not an experience everyone will enjoy, least of all
those who are faint at heart, and injury is always a possibility. For some, the
pasta-cooking scenario may be much more preferable. But for a "hands-on" fishing
experience that anyone from the young to the elderly can delight in, there is
nothing quite comparable.

Night Fishing

Night fishing is a little harder than fishing when the sun is bright. However,
it is common throughout the reservoirs of the south and southeast when the
summer months are too uncomfortable to fish for an entire day. The water will
usually be so warm that the fish will go deeper and deeper from the surface to
find more oxygen, making them harder to catch. Many people night fish as a
hobby, but it is important to take extra safety precautions and to be prepared
for anything.

Generally, bass fishing is the most common type of night fishing. Since bass
are slow moving and they do not migrate long distances, you should be able to
locate them at the same locations during many parts of the day. If you have a
certain fishing spot, they should still be there at night as well. The fish
will also find spots near manufactured structures and anywhere that crawfish
may be in abundance.

Typically, you will want to use a heavier tackle at night than you would during
the day. Since sight is limited, you will have to rely on the feel of the lure
to determine whether you have a bite. Some of the lures that have been proven
to give results are hair jigs, pork rinds, and rubber jigs.

When you are preparing for your night trip, you need to take some extra
measures that you may not necessarily think about for a day trip. You should
check the weather beforehand. When visibility is limited, you do not want to be
caught in rain or deep fog. You also need to make sure that your boat is in
working order. The last thing that you will want is to break down at night.

You should be well aware of what you have and do not have in your tackle and
toolboxes. Light sources are obviously very important to night fishing. Many
anglers will use "black lights" and some sort of fluorescent line. When the
line is under the black light, it will have a neon glow and make subtle
movements more visible. At the very least, you should have extra flashlights
and a mounted light on your boat. You want to keep yourself safe and visible to
other boats that may be night fishing at the same time.

Bass fish do not have great vision, so they will rely on their sense of smell
during the night. Your objective is to create a smell of food or wounded prey.
A popular method during night fishing is to create a chum line. If you are not
comfortable trolling a chum line, you may want to consider live bait. Be
prepared that some larger species of fish are going to be looking for a free
meal as well.

Another thing you cannot forget when you go out for any fishing trip is a first
aid kit. If for some reason you so much as cut your finger, you will need to
have supplies ready and in reach. You need to wear your life jacket at all
times when you are fishing at night. Don't forget your insect repellent because
mosquitoes are looking for a free meal, too.

Catch and Release Fishing

Fishing is a sport, but it has become less about survival and more about fun in
recent decades. There is an issue of fish becoming depleted and many anglers are
now employing the practice of catch and release fishing. Catch and release
fishing is a great theory, but many people are doing it incorrectly and as a
result many fish are dying. A few steps should be followed when trying to catch
and release a fish. Once you get the hang of how to do it correctly, you will be
able to enjoy your hobby and keep the population of fish full in your favorite
stream or lake.

The best place to start is with the hooks. A fish that has a hole through its
mouth is going to be more likely to survive than a fish with a hole in its lung
or gill. If you happen to hook a fish in the gut, the best thing to do is to cut
off the hook as much as you can then release the fish. Many times the hook will
dissolve and the fish will spit it out, but they can also live with a rusted
hook hanging from them. Whatever you do, do not tug on your line to pull a hook
out or you will severely hurt the fish. If you are able to easily remove the
hook, use a pair of needle nose pliers. The process of pulling the hook out is
easier if you remove the barbs from the hooks, but try not to wiggle while you
pull the hook out.

Fish are obviously unable to survive outside of the water. Therefore, the
longer that it takes you to release them, the more it becomes as if you are
suffocating them. The way that a fish is gripped when out of the water will
make a big difference. For instance, avoid touch a fish's body with your bare
hands. The fish have a slimy protective coat that will be stripped if you touch
them with your hands. If you have to touch a fish, make sure that your hands are
wet. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts or permeating
fish smells.

Part of the fun in fishing is to "play out" the fish. The struggle can be what
some anglers wait all day to do. Fish are like humans; when they "work out,"
they build up lactic acid. When you are fighting a fish, they are fighting too.
Just like when someone works his or her body out and it feels sore, a fish
experiences the same thing. The build up of lactic acid can be toxic to a fish
even days later. Therefore, if you are going to practice catch and release, try
to keep the struggle to a minimum.

Try not to let a fish flop around when you catch them. A fish that flops around
can bruise or damage its internal organs, causing them to die later from the
injuries that are incurred. You can also revive a fish if you need to do so. A
fish is likely to run out of oxygen and pass out, so to speak. In order to
revive a fish, you place the fish in the water with their belly down and gently
grasp their tail. Start to slowly move their tail back and forth until they give
you the signal that they are ready to take off into the water. Sometimes you
will need to repeat the process more than once, but don't let a fish go until
they are ready. A fish that is not ready to swim could get carried away and
swept into rocks or embankment and cause serious injury.

More than anything, when you are practicing catch and release, have everything
ready to go. Make sure that your camera, pliers, and gloves are in reaching
distance. Try to take the precautions necessary to preserve fish and one of
America's favorite pastimes.

Blue Marlin Fishing

Marlins are characterized as big game saltwater fish. The average weight of a
blue marlin is anywhere from one hundred to five hundred pounds. Their bodies
can reach the length of ten feet and they are mainly found in the Pacific,
Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. The blue marlin is known for its ability to fight,
so you must be willing to match the marlin's will to live in order to take the
sport seriously. Just like any other fish, the importance of learning the
habits of the blue marlin is essential before trying to make them submissive to
a hook.

When marlin are in their primitive habitat they will feed on many things
including mullet, cero, whole ballyhoo, dolphin, flying fish, bonito,
skipjacks, squid and Spanish mackerel. The reason for understanding the
marlin's eating habits is to know what bait will be useful to catch these
mammoth fish. Any combination of the aforementioned fish will be more than
sufficient bait when trying to catch your marlin.

A simple technique used in marlin fishing is the lure of the "bonito" bait. You
take the bonito and hook it through the tops of their eye sockets. The bonito
will stay alive for hours, making your job more about patience.

Make sure that you have half of the line on your reel because marlin have a
stubborn streak and they will try to fight you until you are tired or are
dragged under by the weight and persistence. Wheel in your line consistently
after the marlin first takes a bite of the bait. If your line seems to be too
tight, loosen up the slack in order to give the marlin a little more room. This
technique will also allow you to take a small break here and there. Loosening
your line will also decrease the chance that the line will break, which is a
common cause of anglers losing their game.

Another traditional method for finding marlin is the study of their behavior.
Marlin will usually follow schools of fish. They will also be more susceptible
to trolling. Trolling is simple enough if you employ logic when you use the
method. For instance, if you spot a marlin following a school of fish, do not
drop your bait in front of the fish because they will scatter and scare the
marlin. If the sun is positioned in front of the marlin, he will be oblivious
to your bait because he will be unable to see it.

The best way to find marlin is through the use of modern technology. An
ultrasound sensor is a tool that is used to spot marlin. However, the gadgets
for fishing are not cheap. Unless you are someone who is dedicated to solely
fishing for marlin, be careful of the purchases that you make. Often times
companies will make products that are specifically designed for a certain type
of fishing, in a certain location, or even a region. Make sure that you do your
research before you buy any electronic fishing tool.

The one thing to keep in mind about marlin is their will to survive. A fight
with a marlin could last for hours without the slightest bit of relief. If at
any time you feel like you are becoming exhausted and the fish is still going
strong, cut the line. If you land a blue marlin you will feel an exhilarating
sense of accomplishment, but there is no achievement that should allow you to
put yourself in danger at any time. Marlin fishing should be a hobby, but it is
a hobby that should be approached with intelligence. You should always know the
strength of your opponent before you take the challenge of a fight. The marlin
is a beautiful fish, that if you become good enough, can make you a lot of
money, but it will take a will that matches the fish to beat the fish.

Loving the Ling: A Tribute to the Ugliest Fish in the Sea

The ling or "eelpout" is without a doubt a disgusting, repulsive, annoying,
slimy, smelly and unattractive fish in the sea. Despite these negative
qualities, it has a delicious lobster-like taste and boasts its own annual
festival near Walker, Minnesota. Why? The eelpout may be ugly, but its
redeeming qualities far outweigh any appearance deficiencies.

Eelpout, also known as spineless catfish, lawyer or burbot, tend to reside
mostly in the deeper waters of clean cold Northern lakes. Their appearance is
part eel, part catfish, sporting one single chin whisker known as a barbel. Its
physique is lean and mean with considerable strength, challenging anglers with
an audacious game of hide-and-seek. Its primary draw for many anglers is the
ease with which they are caught. During the winter months, eelpout relocate
into water 25 to 50 feet deep for spawning. As a result, anglers can expect to
catch large numbers of these homely swimmers, often weighing in the double
digits.

Early evening and after dark are prime times for successful eelpouting. These
ugly creatures of the deep are known carnivores; if it's fishy and fits in
their mouths, they will eat it. While this makes baiting them somewhat easier,
it is this trait which also makes them an unwelcome guest to other anglers, as
they tend to steal bait. Like other nocturnal creatures, eelpout prefer to
sneak up on their victims while they rest.

The strength, depth and aggressiveness of this species require stronger
equipment than most game fishing. Stronger lure combined with leaders of at
least three feet and a swivel will keep the catch online and prevent lure from
twisting with the fish. Glow hooks and rattle spoons with minnows top off the
lure, which is then allowed to free-call to the bottom. The lure mingles with
the muck and is then snapped back to the surface, at which point an eelpout may
already be on board.
During the spawning period in late February, a catch of 100 or more is not
uncommon, weighing on average between 3 and 8 pounds.

Those who love the ling are welcome to pay its tribute at the annual
International Eelpout Festival on Leech Lake in Walker, Minnesota. Three full
days commemorating the ugliest fish in the sea begin with an Opening Ceremony,
complete with Torch Lighting. Entrants are encouraged to use their imagination
when constructing their fishing shelter, as prizes are awarded for the most
lavish structure built on the lake. Extra points may be earned if the shelter
sports a logo from one of the sponsoring companies of the tournament. Prizes
are also awarded for the single pout with the most weight, for the most
combined pout tonnage by a single angler and for most combined pout tonnage by
a team of anglers.

If actually catching these despicable creatures is not on your agenda, the
Festival offers numerous activities to help celebrate the eelpout in style. The
Eelpout Peelout is a 5K run which challenges its contestants to be the first to
win the race and win the angling contest. The Snowmobile Radar Run, Eelpout
Bowl Rugby Tournament, the Polar Plunge, a black-tie dinner on the ice and an
"On-Ice" Auto Race ensure there is something fun for participants of all ages,
whether an angler or spectator.

Few creatures are as unappealing, yet offer so much in the spirit of fishing.
There is nothing refined or fancy about fishing for eelpout; it is simply fun.
For those who like to fish, enjoy the outdoors, and catch a lot of fish without
regard to species, the eelpout is a beautiful thing indeed.

It's great to fish in the summer when the air is warm and the lake is calm.
There are fishermen, though, who can't wait for winter and the lake to freeze
solid. Ice fishing is a sport that many people enjoy, extending the fishing
season to year-round pleasure. What's more, ice fishing is a great family
activity.

What makes ice fishing so appealing to families is that the sport isn't just
about catching fish. Getting outdoors and breathing crisp, good air while
having fun sums up ice fishing well. Smiles, laughs, and playing in the snow
are all pretty common occurrences while out on the ice. Those reasons are just
some of the few that even people who hate fishing get hooked on this winter
activity. If you'd like to try a day of ice fishing with your family, here are
some things to keep in mind.

Ice fishing is usually a whole-day activity. Get out on the ice early after
breakfast to enjoy the best hours. If you plan on bringing home a bunch of
perch for a meal, then being ready with your lines in the water by the time the
sun starts to rise is best. Fish tend to bite in the early morning or later in
the afternoon, depending on the species. The period in between usually ends up
being playtime for families rather than hours spent reeling up the fish.

Pack a good lunch and some snacks, because the fresh air and activity will stir
appetites. Lots of finger foods and plenty of water to drink serve the purpose
nicely. It's a good idea to avoid bringing beer with you, though, as alcohol
and cold don't mix well. Alcohol can lower your body temperature and the chill
in the air makes it harder to feel the effects You may end up going overboard
without realizing you've had one to many to make the safe drive home.

Staying warm while ice fishing is a must. The open-air location will often
carry a good breeze, so windproof clothing should be your first consideration.
Plenty of layers underneath warm sweaters will trap the heat and keep you
feeling toasty. Good boots and mitts of solid construction are best, and even
better are those that are waterproof. Ice fishing involves playing in cold
water, after all!

Some other accessories you'll need are a warm hat and sunglasses. Bright
sunlight reflects on the white snow and ice, which can be brutal on your
eyesight and vision. Many ice anglers who don't wear sunglasses come home and
realize they can't see well for over half an hour! Since the sun is so strong
and the reflection off the snow amplifies its effects, it's also easy to get
sunburned, so apply plenty of sun block to avoid red cheeks.

If you're new to ice fishing, choose an outfitter that will provide you with a
cabin, a stove, lines, minnows and a hole-drilling service. These outfitters
want to make sure you enjoy your day as much as possible and will set you up
with everything you need for hours of fun. The employees will also be more than
happy to answer your questions and give you tips on how to fish.

Once you're set up, respect other people around you. Have a good time, but
don't blast a radio to upset the peace and quiet of other anglers. Don't throw
waste on the ice either and have a care for the environment. Some fishermen
pour antifreeze in their holes to prevent ice from forming but antifreeze is
toxic and this practice is an irresponsible one. Use the metal spoon provided
to keep your holes from freezing over.

In addition, if you aren't going to eat the fish you catch, handle them gently
and practice catch and release. The growth rate and reproduction of fish is
quite slow, which means negligent or abusive behaviour can put a dent in fish
populations.

Lastly, pack up and head home before you get tired. Being outside for a few
hours in cold temperatures will hit you hard once you get into a warm car. By
the time you get home, you'll probably feel exhausted. After a day of ice
fishing, ordering a pizza for supper can be a godsend!

Before you attempt to catch fish, you need to find out where they are. Remember
that fish are found nearly everywhere there is water with sufficient levels of
food, oxygen, and cover. You are certain to be within a relatively close
distance to a body of water that has fish living in it. For an angler, this is
good news. They are there -- now you have to find them! 

* All fish are different. Because of this, they do not all live in the same kind 
of waters. Fish tolerate different environmental conditions. Some of these include
differing levels of salt, amounts of oxygen, types and amounts of food, water
temperature, and hiding areas. The most distinguishing element of fish is salt.
Some fish do not live in areas where there is a lot of salt. On the other hand,
some fish need salt to survive. There are also some types of fish that can live
in both saltwater and freshwater.

* Freshwater ponds, reservoirs, and rivers contain significantly less salt than 
the ocean. North America has a majority of freshwater bodies. Some of the fish 
that you will find in these freshwater bodies are the bluegill, carp, catfish, 
crappie, and bass. In contrast, many species of fish live in the ocean's salty 
water. Thanks to their kidneys, these fish are able to keep the proper balance of 
salt in their body. The more popular saltwater fish are the bluefish, cod, sea 
trout, tuna, and flounder.

* Another factor that weighs heavily on where you will find certain fish is 
oxygen. All fish must have a certain level of oxygen to survive. Some fish, such 
as carp, survive on less oxygen than fish like trout. The living plants within a 
lake or stream directly affect the amount of oxygen in the water. They add oxygen 
to the water through photosynthesis. This process uses sunlight to make food. 
Oxygen also makes its way into water from the surrounding air. 

* You will find certain fish in certain bodies of water based on what kind of 
food is there. It is based on the amount and type of food available in a setting. 
All fish need to eat, so the amount of competition with other fish is a factor 
that determines which fish will be in certain areas.

* Fish prefer different water temperatures. Some fish are flexible. They have the 
ability to live in a wide range of temperatures. Other fish, however, need either 
cold or warm water to survive. Trout is an example of this. You will only find 
trout in cold water. Your best bet for finding a certain type of fish is to learn 
about the type of water it prefers. They are most often found in water that is 
close to their preferred temperature.

We, as humans, can control one factor when it comes to where fish live. Water
quality often determines where a fish will live and we have the means to ensure
a high level of water quality. All fish must have water that has adequate levels
of oxygen. Good-quality water will obviously support more species of fish than
water that is polluted. Water that is stagnant, polluted, or lacking adequate
oxygen simply cannot support a large group of fish. While some fish, such as
carp, live in water that is not very clean, most fish need a high quality of
water in order to survive.

* Discovering the places where fish live is the first step to successful fishing. 
Several factors come into play when looking for a fish's habitat. Some of these 
are the levels of salt and oxygen found in water. Another factor is the 
temperature of the water. All fish are different. Because of this, it benefits 
you, the angler, to take the time necessary to find the bodies of water in which 
they live.

The next time you drop a line in the water off the side of a boat equipped with
the latest sonar devices, dig into the cooler beside your feet for a favourite
beverage and kick your feet up to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing.

Fishing is one of the oldest activities known to man. Archaeologists have found
ancient dumps of shell and bone, cave paintings depicting fishing and even hooks
made from bone. There is even a theory that states we might be closer to the
fish we try and catch than we think. The "Aquatic Ape Hypothesis" contends that
human beings spent a time living by and catching their food from the shallows of
lakes and oceans. The controversial theory contends years of living that helped
us to look different from the apes and chimpanzees thought by some to be our
ancestors because of this time evolving by water.

The ancient river Nile was an angler's paradise. The Egyptians relied on fresh
and dried fish as a staple in their diets, and the various methods they used
have been well represented in many ancient representations from their lives.
Although they had some tools like nets, baskets and even hooks and lines, the
fish caught were often clubbed to death. Perch, catfish and eels were among the
most important catches in the Egyptian times.

The other bed of civilization, Greece, did not share Egypt's love of fishing.
Still, there is a depiction on a wine cup from 500 BC that shows a boy kneeling
over a stream with a live capture net in the water below him. It's unclear why
the boy was 'fishing' however, since the device is clearly for live capture.
There is also evidence the Romans fished with nets and tridents off the sides
of boats. One of their most famous Gods, Neptune, is depicted usually with a
fishing trident. There are references to fishing in the Bible, too.

Perhaps the most recognizable tool for fishing is the hook. No one knows for
certain, but it's quite probable prehistoric man was using some form of a hook
over 40,000 years ago. Experts have had some problems pinning down exact dates
since they know most of the materials used back then were most likely wood and
not very durable. British Isle anglers catch fish with hooks made from the
hawthorn bush, right up to the present day. Although Stone Age man had the
tools necessary for making bone hooks, it is hard for scientists to get exact
dates since bone does not define its age well. The oldest known hooks have
turned up in Czechoslovakia, but others have turned up in Egypt and Palestine.
The Palestinian hooks are believed to be over 9,000 years old, proving that
fishing has been around for a very long time indeed.

Indians on Easter Island made their hooks from a gruesome material. Since human
sacrifices were abundant in the area for some time, the natives made their fish
hooks out of the most plentiful material around -- human bone. Fish hooks made
of human bone were the norm there until missionaries arrived at the turn of the
last century. In addition to hooks made of stone, bone or wood, ancient man
often combined material to make composite hooks with barbs that kept the bait
on.

Heritage Fishing: Fishing in the Past for the Future

Heritage fisheries are carefully maintained aquatic preserves in various parts
of the world where a tradition or habitat surrounding fishing has been
protected from today's modern hazards. A heritage fishery may be a lake, river
or part of the ocean; its locale having less to do with its heritage
designation than preservation of a certain style or era. Heritage fishing's
purpose is twofold: to experience fishing as it was in the past and to preserve
fishing for the future.

Glendalough State Park is the newest member of the Minnesota State Parks
family. Its land was given to the state by a private donor in the 1990s and the
lakes on the park acreage were fished privately for nearly a hundred years. No
one other than members of the donor's family or their guests was allowed to
utilize the lakes at Glendalough State Park. As a result, fish sizes and
populations in the Glendalough lakes are more representative of historic times
than of modern times.

Annie Battle Lake, the largest of the Glendalough Lakes, allows the angler to
experience fishing as it was in Minnesota during the 1800s. Motors of any kind
are not allowed on the lake. Canoes and rowboats are available for rental at
the park office and shore fishing is a pleasure from any location here. Gas
powered vehicles are prohibited, as are any type of electronic fish-finding
device.

Large bass, panfish, walleye and northern pike abound under the crystal clear
waters of Annie Battle Lake because the waters are unpolluted by gas or oil.
Catch-and-release regulations and fishing limits are strictly enforced here,
maintaining the size and count of the population for generations to come. A
small brook connecting Annie Battle Lake to another of the park lakes is waist
deep with a sandy bottom, providing excellent wading areas for bass fishing.

The Lave Net Fishery at Blackrock on the Severn Estuary in Wales is the last of
its kind in Wales and has also been designated as a heritage fishery.
Treacherous tidal waters averaging speeds of 7-8 knots have witnessed
generations of fishermen pass along this fishing technique. Less than a dozen
lave net fishing licenses are issued by the Welsh government each year, with
all belonging to a local association dedicated to preserving this unique method
of salmon fishing. The only noticeable difference between modern and historic
lave netters are that they now sport waders as opposed to animal skins.

The lave net itself, a Y-shaped structure constructed of wood and a hand-made
net, remains unchanged. Anglers wade into the river and either "cower", waiting
for the salmon to approach him, or watch for the telltale salmon splashes
announcing their location. The fisherman can then net the fish before they head
to deeper water. This kind of fishing is restricted by law and by the tides.
Anglers have about 1.5 hours before low tide to practice their craft when
conditions are calm. Their knowledge of the tides and of the area, received
from the generation before, serves as their guide.

Kjaerra Laxefiske on the Kjaerrafossen River near Helgeland, Norway dates back
to 1388. Ownership of the two heritage fisheries here is marked by the
"markebol", a medieval unit of measurement. Salmon are caught via the use of
ancient fishing tools, while the buildings surrounding the fisheries were
restored to medieval timber and stone during the 1950s. Visitors are welcomed
to the weekly opening of salmon pots every Thursday where the catch of the week
is revealed.

Wherever they are located, heritage fisheries are an important part of the
environment and the community. In addition to offering the simple thrill of
fishing itself, they provide an opportunity to learn from the past, as well as
preserving the present heritage of fishing for future anglers.

Hawaii Charter Fishing

Sometimes the hardest thing about going on vacation is the overdose of
downtime. You want to find enough things to do to keep you busy, but not too
much to where you feel overloaded. Chartering a fishing boat has its
advantages, but on the island of Hawaii, it is a day trip that you do not want
to miss. There are certain basics when chartering a boat, but since Hawaii is
not just a hop, skip and jump away, you want to make your plans ahead of time
while having all of your questions answered.

First of all, you will need a boat. Hawaii has hundreds of charter boats
throughout the islands, so availability will not be an issue. The companies
that charter boats have certain criteria that they have to follow in order to
run their business. The boat must be inspected for proper gear, maintenance,
and repair history. They are also inspected for their experience level. No one
wants to pay for a charter and catch a fish that the crew cannot handle.

The charter trips are typically broken up into various price categories. Prices
will vary depending on where you are staying and where you want to fish. For
instance, Kona has the lowest prices but the most competition for marlin
fishing while Lahaina is the most expensive.

If you are concerned about the fish, do not worry. Most of the charters will
succumb to whatever you want to do with your catches. If you want to take them
home or if you want to cook them for dinner, it should not matter as long as
you make your requests up front. Hawaii does have a deep-rooted tradition of
selling Billfish and this concept offends many anglers. Today, many charters
are willing to throw the Billfish back (at the customer's request), but don't
be surprised if this is not the case.

You should also know that when you charter a boat, you are not chartering fish.
A charter is to allow you to have an experience out on the water enjoying the
scenery and trying to catch a fish. Fishing is a sport where there are no
guarantees and there is no way of predicting where fish will be and when. If
you charter a boat with the expectation of a refund for a bad catch day, you
will be disappointed. There is no charter trip that will refund your money for
a lack of fish on a given day.

Some of the things that you will need when you charter a boat for the day are
not what you may expect. Most boats will provide you with tackle and equipment,
but that is it. You are expected to bring your own snacks and drinks. You should
also invest in some Bullfrog sunscreen, which is waterproof and commonly used on
boats. Another good tool essential to fishing are sunglasses. Your sunglasses
should be polarized so that you can see the fish clearer than other glasses.
Lastly, bring an extra towel and t-shirt because you will probably get wet.

Make sure to leave your bananas behind. Hawaii, as well as many other fishing
places, has a strict policy against bananas being onboard. They are thought to
bring bad luck, so do not try to test this theory or your day may be extremely
unpleasant.

Hawaii can be a little more difficult to plan a fishing trip on the spur of the
moment because the locals usually have conflicting opinions. Try to do some
research on the islands that you want to fish and then book a charter through a
major company that has a trusted record.

People been fishing for sport for in around fifty generations now. What started
as a means of survival has become a favourite pastime in North America and
beyond, creating a hunger for fishing tips and aspects of fishing to be
revealed in many different contexts. Learning about fishing and learning about
different types of fish can be very exciting and interesting to many people.

Trout is the most common freshwater fish. They are equal to any other of the
sport fish and they stand at the top of the food chain in most rivers and
streams where they live. Years ago, a successful angler was judged by how many
of these popular fish he could catch at one time, but now the wise angler
practises catch-and-release tactics so the numbers of trout will always be
plentiful. Part of what makes an angler a responsible one is caring for the
sport of fishing and fish populations for generations to come.

The most popular trout fish that anglers enjoy trying to lure in is known as
the "brown trout". The brown trout provides plenty of excitement for anglers
and tests fishing skills. Because it often feeds on the surface, the brown
trout is considered a fish designed for the angler. It is a cold-water fish
that lives in lakes and streams and jumps around the most when the water
temperature is just right The brown trout got its reputation from rich English
gentleman who enjoyed the trout's fight. The world record brown trout weighed
around forty pounds and was taken in Arkansas in 1992.

One of the most the most glamorized fish of the trout family actually is not a
trout at all. Surprisingly, scientists have recently discovered the rainbow
trout is actually a smaller cousin of the Pacific Salmon. Rainbow trout are
considered a peaceful fish despite their family heritage. They coexist with any
other fish in the stream. While the brown trout prefers slower water and calmer
pools, the rainbow trout likes the more oxygen-rich fast running water. That
enthusiasm makes the rainbow a favourite of the angler.

There is yet another trout that is not actually a trout. The Brooke trout or
"brookie" lives in the cooler streams of the north-eastern US and is related to
the char. This makes it a relative of the lake trout rather than a member of the
family. Because the fish is only found in wilderness areas, the Brooke trout is
a special favourite with anglers. Wherever they're found, fisherman can be sure
the water is pure and the ecology unspoiled. The "brookie" is often criticized
for being pretty but not necessarily smart. Although anglers praise them for
their beauty, it's well known that there are harder fish to catch. The world
record for the biggest Brooke trout takes place in Canada in 1918. A
fourteen-pound "brookie" was caught in the Nipigon River in Ontario, Canada.

Other trout species include the red trout, a species that enjoys hiding in
bracken and branches, and the deeper-water lake trout. Current population
control laws protect the lake trout, requiring anglers to release catches that
measure certain sizes. The size of the lake trout indicates its potential to
spawn and release fertilized eggs. With continued programs of trout population
protection and responsible fishing, the trout will certainly continue to
survive for generations to come.

Fishing with Live Bait

There are many myths that surround using live bait instead of artificial and
most of them are not true. Live bait is still used by many anglers. The one
factual part of live bait, which no one can dispute, it that is often messy,
and it smells terrible. If you can surmount these two factors, you will be in
good shape to try live bait on your next fishing outing.

There are some basic principles that should not be ignored when using live
bait. None of the principles concerning live bait are clean or nice, but they
are mandatory. You should never handle live bait when your hands are dry. Bait
has a slimy layer on the outside, which is protective as well as inviting to
predators, and if your hands are dry you will risk removing that layer.

If you are running short on live bait, try to save the bait that dies in your
live well or in a nearby bucket. When your live bait has run out, you will
still be able to use the freshly dead bait on your hook to attract fish. All
you have to do is cast your line and bob it a little to give the appearance
that your decoy has some life left. Be careful of the weight that you put on a
line with live bait. Fish are going to spot a weight if it is too heavy and
weighting down the bait. Your weight or sinker should be light enough to give
the bait the appearance of free floating in the water.

Seasonal fishing can change the perspective on live bait. For instance, the
summer months can be brutal, especially in the South. You may need to adjust
your thinking and practices when the summer months hit. Keeping the bait alive
will be the hardest obstacle for any angler in the summer. In order to keep
your bait living, you will need to change out the water regularly so that the
oxygen can keep flowing through to the bait. However, you can't just stop at
changing out the water.

The temperature of the water is crucial because the water on the surface is hot
and deadly for living bait. Therefore, having ice on hand to put into the live
well will be the most beneficial way of keeping your live bait happy until they
reach the hook. There is also a bait shortage during the summer months on things
like shrimp and live croaker. You will save yourself a lot of time if you call
the bait shop the night before to ensure that the bait you want is available.
The shrimp are the most common bait in the summertime, but they are not as
effective as you may think. When everyone is using shrimp, the fish are not as
excited by them because they see them everywhere. Try using a baitfish that is
not as often used in the summer months and guarantee a better chance of
catching a fish.

Some other tips you should keep in mind when fishing with live bait is to never
hook your live bait in the eyes. The reason is that you want the bait to see the
fish approach them because they will become more excited and it will cause the
fish to latch on better. Another thing is that you should add water softener
salt to the water that is holding your live bait. The salt will make the scales
of your bait harder while instantaneously preserving the slimy coat that
attracts predators.

Lastly, you should make sure that you know how to properly throw a casting net
before trying to catch bait. People often times throw the net too hard or too
soft and this results in frustration and a net that does not consistently open.

Live bait can come in handy when you are trying to have a big day out at sea.
Reason and logic will tell you that a fish would be more attracted to real food
as oppose to faux food. However, the live bait does increase the workload so
make sure you are prepared to deal with the entire package before committing to
fishing with live bait.

Fishing With GPS

In this day and age, you would be hard pressed to find a fishing boat without
some sort of fish finding device. GPS devices have become the latest in
technology and water safety when it comes to fishing. They are used as a means
of navigation and a way to mark your spot so that you can find it again in the
future.

A GPS is a Global Positioning System that is made primarily for navigational
purposes. They work off a network of satellites that are placed into orbit by
the United States Government. The best part about a GPS system is that because
they operate off satellite, they can be used in any weather conditions at any
hour of the day.

The satellites will circle the earth twice during the day and transmit signal
information to Earth. The signals can then be used to calculate the user's
exact location by implementing triangulation and pinpointing exact spots.
Triangulation means that the GPS receiver must be locked into three spots
before a calculation of longitude and latitude can be displayed. After the
satellites have mapped the location, the GPS can narrow in on other satellites
for useful information such as speed, track, trip distance, destination
distance and sunrise or sunset times.

The accuracy of the GPS system is very acute because of the multi-channel
designs that are available. A GPS will lock onto a satellite and maintain that
lock through one of their channels. A GPS fish finder is accurate up to fifteen
meters while the newer models increase in accuracy up to three meters.

There are many benefits to investing in a GPS and people are using GPS more
regularly and relying on them more than the more traditional ways of navigation
such as maps and charts. If you have plot points that you have saved on a GPS,
you may be able to save time and frustration on the open seas by going directly
to the location that had the fish the last time you went out. Another advantage
to the GPS is that it can detect hot fishing spots that may not be detected by
older maps or charts. In addition, if you find a perfect fishing spot, you can
share it with a friend when you go fishing on another boat.

GPS systems are also a great safety tool when you are out on the water. Many
times, especially if there are many people socializing on a boat, it can be
easy to lose concentration. People will easily be turned around or lost and a
GPS is an easy tool to use to find your way back home. You can also use a GPS
system if there is unexpected bad weather such as fog or heavy rain. GPS
systems are also equipped with mapping software that makes it easier to find a
dock. The GPS is so accurate that it is able to communicate exact positions to
the Coast Guard or rescue crew if an emergency arises.

You can purchase a handheld GPS online or at your local marine or boating
store. Ask a salesperson to help explain the different features and costs for
the varying models. If you decide to purchase your boat from a dealer, you will
need a built-in GPS. Your local boat supplier will be able to give you a
reference to someone who can properly install your electronics. You should
never rely on just one navigation tool when you are fishing. A GPS seems to
cover all of the bases, but it is still a computerized tool. You should always
be proactive about your safety and always have marine maps and charts onboard
at all times. You should also have a handheld radio handy in case of
emergencies.

Fishing With Children

Often times as adults, we want to share our hobbies and pastimes with our
children. However, it can be difficult to decide when that pastime is
appropriate. Children have shorter attention spans that make it difficult to
calculate when they are ready for certain things. Fishing is a common hobby of
many people around the world and many people are eager to introduce their
children to fishing the minute they can hold a fishing rod. Fishing is a lesson
in patience for children and a structured way to teach them a sport that
involves precision and safety.

When you take your child fishing, the most important thing to keep in mind is
their safety. What kind of fishing are you trying to introduce? Are you
thinking about a day of bottom fishing? Does pier fishing suit your needs? Are
you going to go all out and take your child for a deep-sea fishing excursion?

Regardless of what you decide is best, you should have the basic safety
essentials with you at all times. A first aid kit is mandatory because whenever
a kid is involved accidents will happen. Children tend to get poked, scratched,
and barbed, so you need to be prepared. If you are going out into the sea and
away from the shore, make sure that you have life jackets and make sure that
your child is wearing one even he or she has no intention of getting into the
water. Keep in mind your child's abilities when it comes to swimming. If you do
not think that they are a strong swimmer, you may want to keep your boat docked.

Make sure to buy and stock your child's tackle box. A youngster's first tackle
box should be small and lightweight. There is nothing complex about the
contents of a beginner's tackle box. All a child needs are some pre-tied hooks,
some bobbers, a couple of weights, swivels, and small scissors or fingernail
clippers to cut their line. A tackle box is a fingerprint for many who view it
as a personal expression. Let your child see the basics so that they can build
their own to represent themselves one-day.

Make sure to lead by example when you take your child fishing. Teach them how
to keep the line taut so that they will be able to respond properly if a fish
bites their line. As soon as your child feels the bite, teach them how to set
the hook. Tug back on the rod in order to firmly set the hook in the fish's
lip. Take the time with your child to let them learn techniques like "playing
the fish". Part of the fun of fishing is the struggle between the man and the
fish, so let your child have the entire experience and not just a partial one.

When you introduce fishing to your child, you have certain advantages to
teaching them at a younger rather than older age. Younger child have a greater
absorption rate with a desire to soak up as much information as they can. Take
the time that you and your child are sharing to educate them about catch and
release regulations and fishing for food as opposed to pleasure. If your child
decides that they want to let the fish that you catch go, make sure that you
know the right way to release. Cleaning the fish can either make a child vomit
or ask when the next trip is going to be, so use discretion in regards to age
when preparing your catch for dinner. There will be good days and bad days when
fishing with your kids. Kids have a tendency to not listen, become disinterested
fast or fall asleep at inopportune times. Patience is the key to taking children
out for a day of fishing. Repetition will also make your child more comfortable
with the whole process. Regardless of whether a fish is caught or not, take the
time to bond with your child while using fishing as an excuse.

Fishing for Sharks

It seems like every sport has a category that is set aside for the extreme.
Believe it or not, there are some that were not deterred by the movie Jaws and
they choose to seek out sharks instead of run from them. If you are so bold as
to take on shark fishing, you should understand some basics before hitting the
open sea.

If your goal is to actually catch a shark, the best time to do it is in June.
The temperature is not too hot and it will attract more of the predators you
seek. If you decide to fish for sharks in the middle of the summer, you should
be aware of water temperatures and try to find the coolest spot possible.

When you plan a shark-fishing trip, you need to be prepared. Many people would
advise keeping a checklist beforehand in order to help you with preparation.
Some things that you should include when packing for your trip are chum and
proper gear. Your rods and reels should be able to handle a three hundred fish
or greater. Typically, you should plan to fish with three to five baits in the
water at a time. Therefore, you will need many rod and reel setups to accompany
the ratio of bait.

The best rod to use is a fifty to eighty pound class rod. You should not forget
your harness and safety straps (you do not want to fall overboard and become
live bait). In addition, you want to remember your bait and chum. Running chum
is the most effective way to trap a shark so be prepared for a mess onboard.

It is important to know what species of shark you are wanting to fish.
Different sharks swim at different levels and temperatures. In order to set a
shark trap, you will have to tie your farthest bait off the bow rail with a
flat line clip. Make sure that the line is out of the way and stay in the
highest rocket holder on the particular side of the boat from which you are
fishing. You should attach your bait, attach a weight or balloon on the line,
and plunge it approximately eighty feet. The second rod's bait is set down
sixty feet while resting in the trolling holder; this line is also attached to
the midship with a rubber band. The third line is set down thirty feet with no
balloon but rather free bait. You should make sure that your drags are loose so
that you will be alerted early by the clicking sound of the reel. If you color
code your balloons, it will be easier to tell which rod is being pulled.

Once you have waited and finally caught your shark, be prepared. Sharks will
have different temperaments and act according to their agitation. Some sharks
have been known to slightly drag the bait before they swallow, while other
sharks will run at the boat, run in the opposing direction from the boat, or
come right up to the boat. If you need a harness, make sure that the harness is
safely attached to the boat and the reel.

Once you have the shark close to the boat, your experienced sidekick will be
able to help. You will want to hand wire the shark into the boat. Hand wires
are meant to be sturdy and they will not break if you are attached to them. Do
not wrap the wire around your hand because you want to be able to let go of the
wire easily if you have to. If you are keeping a shark, you will need to gaff
and rope it by its tail.

Remember that you should only keep a shark if you have plans to eat it, use it
in a tournament or if you believe it is a contender for the world record. You
can take a picture with the shark without killing it.

If you are new to the sport of fishing, you need to know some of the basic
rules of fishing. Like other forms of hunting, fishing involves both your
environment and those around you. Be respectful of both. You can responsibly
enjoy this treasured pastime in several ways. 

* Fishing is an ancient practice. It dates back nearly 10,000 years. A number of 
various techniques and traditions have been used during fishing's progression. 
Modern technological developments have changed the way people fish, but many of 
the same rules, regulations, and social norms involving fishing remain. 

* Always practice good stewardship of our waterways when you are fishing. 
Remember that these waterways were around thousands of years before you and will 
remain long after we are gone. You can make a conscious decision to leave the 
areas in which people fish in better condition than when you found it. Take care 
of our lakes, rivers, and other waterways so that others will enjoy these areas 
for years to come. Practicing certain behaviors will ensure that you are taking 
good care of the places where people fish. 

* Never litter when you are fishing. Always bring a trash bag or other receptacle 
to use for the collection of your trash. You can easily deposit it in a nearby 
trash receptacle. Dump your refuse in properly assigned dumping stations instead 
of tossing it in the water. You do not need to spend much time figuring out the 
many ways in which this hurts the environment. 

* As you fish, always use the correct type of bait and fishing gear. Certain 
areas allow for certain bait and gear. You will also encounter limits on the 
number, size, and kind of fish that you can keep. Become familiar with what these
limits are and pay attention to them. Do not wait until you are at your fishing
spot to search for what is allowed and what is not. Check with your destination
before you head out on your fishing trip to see what the local regulations
allow. If you plan on using a boat while fishing, research to see what kinds of
watercraft are allowed where you are going to fish. 

* Every fishing location is different, so pay special attention to local 
procedures and cautions. This also applies when you decide to clean your boat 
after you leave the water. You do not want to spread non-native species to 
another body of water. 

* Finally, never fish where it is not permitted. There is always a reason why it 
is illegal. Some reasons include the protection of certain wildlife, the proper 
care of vegetation, and the safety of you and others who want to fish. 

* You should also follow a number of cautionary behaviors to ensure your safety. 
As with all forms of hunting, safety is first. If you will be using a boat while 
you fish, always wear your life jacket. Make sure that your passengers wear their 
life jackets, as well. 

* Be very careful when baiting and removing hooks. Make sure that you never fish 
on unauthorized waterways. Follow the posted speed limits and wake warnings that 
accompany the use of a boat. Bring with you all relevant safety items, such as 
water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone. 

* Fishing continues to be a favorite pastime. 2001 saw nearly 16% of the U.S. 
population over the age of 16 spend 16 days fishing. You enjoy the sport of 
fishing, so follow the rules that allow for the continuation of fishing. Be 
responsible and courteous of others and your environment. Take time to discover 
how you can be both a better and safer angler.

For some people, fishing is a pastime. For others among us, it is a serious
sport. However you perceive it, fishing is enjoyable when you've got the proper
accessories to use. Here is a list of some considerations to think over.

Often there is a nice spot to fish from the shore of a pond, lake, stream or
river. Other times, you will need to consider what kind of transportation you
will need to get over the water. The canoe is the oldest craft. It is the
traditional vehicle of the American Indian and has great traditional value, but
that does not mean it is the best kind of water transportation available. A
canoe can be tippy at the best of times and especially hard to handle in the
wind but paddling or drifting along makes it easy to approach good spots to
fish undetected.

A small rowboat without a motor is considered the best kind of boat to use
since you can stand up in it to cast. Although it is best to row to the spot
where you intend to fish, a small trolling motor is handy for travelling some
distances. Larger pleasure boats with outboards are also recommended, but a
boat with high sides is best as big lakes and broad rivers are prone to winds
that can whip up big waves.

You will also need to pick out some quality footwear. This becomes especially
important if you are going to fish by the side of a lake. Hip boots are the
most practical for this as they can be rolled down if you're not wading. While
hip boots can also be used for stream wading, chest or hip waders are
traditionally best here. When choosing chest or hip-wader boots, select ones
that have a loose fit. Having waders that are too tight could restrict leg
motion and undue stress on the seams could leave you wet.

The proper jacket is also a necessity. Jackets come in two basic lengths: Long
and short. The long style is designed for fishing from a boat or wading in
shallow water. If you are planning to use chest waders, it is recommended you
use a short jacket since the bottom of a long jacket would drag in the water.
You should select a jacket with generous pockets for carrying lure boxes and
other accessories. A hat with a visor is another good idea because you will
have your eyes on the water and need some kind of shade.

The avid angler has three stashes of lure and tackle-box containers. The first
stash is for the home stockpile, the second and larger one for the boat, and a
third stash is for the car. That way, you will always be covered in the event
of a loss or other mishap. It is a good idea to buy a large supply at the
beginning of the season too so you will have lots on hand, especially if you
like to fish at night.

With the right fishing accessories and gear, you can turn your fishing
experience into a better one. The last thing you want when the time for that
perfect catch nears is to realize you are missing an important piece of
equipment. Preparedness is among the most important aspects of fishing, so make
sure that you have all of the gear you need to have the best experience of your
life.

Staying Ice Free when Ice Fishing

Everyone has heard the saying, "No ice is safe". While true, this is not
practical advice for many of us in Northern climates where playing or working
on frozen water is part of our lives. Ice fishing, for one, allows many
opportunities for disaster when the dangers of ice are neither appreciated nor
prepared for properly.

Sometimes we tend to simplify the dangers of ice fishing, thinking of all of
the fun of catching "the big one" after drinking a case of beer with friends
while downplaying or omitting altogether the inherent dangers. Life-or-death
situations can and do occur and often without notice, so it is imperative to
take sensible precautions prior to driving or walking on frozen water in search
of the perfect winter catch.

Those who wish to participate in an ice fishing expedition should be in
reasonably good physical condition and able to swim or to at least remain
comfortable staying afloat. Should an emergency occur, such as your fishing
partner falling through the ice, your physical condition and their ability to
float could be critical. The ability to remain calm in case of emergency is
crucial as well.

When selecting clothing, consider not only the elements of cold, wind and snow,
but also your mobility should you fall into the water. Waders or hip boots can
fill with water, creating additional weight and restricting movement. These
should, of course, be avoided at all costs. Waterproof, ankle-length footwear
which laces up is a good choice. Keep in mind what would enable swimming and
floating with ease when selecting what to put on. By layering your clothing,
you retain the ability to lighten yourself easily should the need arise. A wool
hat is a necessity to retain body heat. You should also remember to wear a
personal floatation device.

Check ice conditions before venturing out on any frozen surface. Ice thickness
should be no less than six inches and should be determined in more than one
area, as ice thickness can vary. The ice fisherman's rule of thumb is "Thick
and blue, tried and true. Thin and crispy, way too risky!". Always go out on
foot before driving a vehicle on any ice surface, probing with an ice chisel in
front you as you walk. Should the chisel ever go through, do not continue
forward. Instead, carefully turn around and head back toward shore to return
another day.

Loud booms and cracks may indicate nothing more than contraction and thermal
expansion on a larger lake. However, on a river this sound signal may indicate
imminent breakage or movement of ice. Always remain acutely aware of your
surroundings when walking on any frozen surface. A group of individuals should
proceed in a single-file line, leaving about ten feet between each person. Only
after an ice cover has been accurately inspected should you drive a vehicle on
it.

Ice conditions vary from region to region. Before venturing out on any frozen
surface, take time to familiarize yourself with the area and to put simple
precautions into place. If you are unsure about something, ask the advice of
someone whose experience you trust. Above all, never go out on the ice alone
and never go out on any ice whose safety is in question. By following these
suggestions, your ice fishing expedition is guaranteed to be safe, if not
fish-filled.

You know your kids love to try new things. They have been blessed with the same
adventurous spirit that you have. After a long, cold winter, they are tired of
the indoors. But you are not sure what you can do with them that they have not
yet tried. Boating and fishing offer you a great way to spend time with your
children and to create memories that will last a lifetime. You can do several
things that will allow you to make the most of your time together. 

* No matter how young or old your children are, involve them in everything that 
you do as you embark on your fishing journey. Your kids want to feel needed and 
this is the perfect opportunity for them to help you. There is no better way to 
instill a sense of accomplishment in your kids than to allow them to help you 
with "grown-up" jobs. Depending on how old they are, assign them certain small
things for which they are responsible. Some of these include ensuring that
everyone has a personal floatation device and letting them coil a line. Your
children will walk away at the end of the day with a renewed sense of
confidence in their ability to help Mom and Dad. 

* Keep your children busy while you are fishing. They prefer to stay active. 
Plan your fishing outing accordingly. Include exciting water activities such as 
snorkeling, tubing, or looking for various wildlife. Of course, showing them the 
basics of fishing will forever keep them and you busy! There are enough details 
involved in the sport of fishing that you will need to take your kids on multiple 
trips before they are fluent in the language of the angler.

* You have an excellent opportunity to teach your kids while fishing on a boat. 
You have the ability to teach them new skills that they use long after you have 
caught your last fish. Merely being on the water allows you to teach kids new 
things about their environment. You can also teach them about boating, fishing, 
and safety skills. Try to incorporate these teachings into fun, intriguing 
activities. 

* Introduce them to new and exciting things as they are ready. For example, 
create a game that teaches nautical terminology. Focus on words like port, 
starboard, or bow. You should build upon this knowledge. After they know these 
terms, help your children learn the best way to safely drive a fishing boat or 
cast a fishing line. Always be an observant teacher. The combination of boating 
and fishing allows for an enormous amount of learning. 

* This type of hands-on learning lasts a long time. Your children will benefit 
in many ways. They will discover things that help them become better fishers 
and boatmen. Participating in an activity that is thousands of years old teaches 
them about tradition. They will eventually be able to teach their kids all that 
you have taught them. This includes many of the elements of responsibility that 
come with helping adults achieve a goal. 

* Your children will have unlimited amounts of fun as they encounter new 
settings, new climates, and new wildlife. Most importantly, fishing and boating 
with your children will give you the chance to spend quality time with them. This 
is worth more than all of the fun had and the lessons learned.

Surf Fishing

Surf fishing might look like a great deal of calm and easy fun. Some people
make it seem easy, but surf fishing is a lot harder than you may think. There
are many calculations that you have to make in order to have a successful day
like the wind, the current, wave height, floating kelp, and the positioning of
the rocks. All of that information needs to be calculated in before you can
cast your line and get started.

The first thing that you need to do before you attempt surf fishing is to
prepare ahead of time. Most places will require you to have a fishing license.
If you get caught without one, the fine will more than ruin your mood.

You will need to find out as much information as possible about the best times
to go surf fishing. The best time to go surf fishing is high tide, before all
of the beachgoers that scare fish come to the beach. You will need to learn to
develop a great deal of patience when you go surf fishing, so bring lots of
bait and get ready to settle in for the day.

You do not need to buy a special type of rod to surf fish. The rod that you use
should be determined on how well you cast. When deciding how well you cast, be
realistic about what you can accomplish so that you can catch the maximum of
fish that you want. The advantage to a shorter rod is that it allows you to be
more mobile so that you can continuously move from spot to spot. You do not
necessarily need to cast out very far because the fish are usually swimming
just at the break line feasting on dead and decaying matter.

If you can find them, sand crabs will be your best bait for surf fishing. If
you are surfing in the summer, you can find the deep holes that they have dug
into the sand and fish them out. Many times, you can find them washed up on the
beach, and this is fine because the fish will swim to the surface to catch
anything dead or alive. If you are all out of crabs, you can use frozen
anchovies, salted anchovies, shrimp, mussels, or some clams.

Make sure that your bait is somewhat firm, otherwise it may slide right off of
your hook. For a rig, you will need something that is capable of sinking the
line without putting undue pressure on it. The fish can be scared off if they
can feel the weight on the line. Many people will use a sliding sinker rig when
they surf fish.

There are many good reasons to consider going for a day of surf fishing. You
can catch perch, corbina, stingrays, bass, rockfish, and sometimes even
hammerhead sharks. It is also a good way to spend a day at the beach. However,
if you decide to fish when there are many beachgoers, try to find a spot where
there are not many people in the water. Many times surf fishing will attract
sharks and they will swim right up to the shore for fresh food. Unfortunately,
sharks do not see very well and they will oftentimes mistake surfers for
tortoises or fish because of their legs hanging off the wooden board.

If you do not have the money or the time to invest in a boat, surf fishing is a
way that you can see the benefits of the catch and save a little time also.
There are some extra preparation plans that you have to account for when surf
fishing, but you would have much more prep and cleanup on a large boat. Surf
fishing is an enjoyable hobby that will get you out of the house and maybe even
offer up a chance to come home with fresh dinner.

Preparing for the Taxidermist

Taxidermy, from the Greek for "arrangement of the skin", is essentially the art
of mounting and reproducing dead animals for display purposes. It is a
controversial element of life that has long been popular, but with new
philosophies springing forth out of new movements, taxidermy may be
experiencing a significant decline. Some taxidermists actually arrange deceased
animals for study, such as in museums or science labs, but for the most part the
industry functions on home sales and home display items.

The practice of taxidermy is generally limited to animals with backbones
because the starting point of any taxidermist's process relies on having a
solid line to work with, such as the backbone. There have been instances,
however, in which effective taxidermy has taken place involving insects or
other smaller animals. These instances are very rare, though, and many
taxidermists refuse to work with such small animals because of the
complications involved.

The quality of taxidermy has certainly become more impressive over the years,
with technological advances really adding to the professionalism of the
industry. The main goal of a quality taxidermist is to produce life-like
results from their work and to create an animal that is as close to replicating
the living version as humanly possible. For this reason, preparing for the
taxidermist should involve taking incredible care of your animal beforehand so
that the taxidermist has as much to work with as possible.

One of the most common techniques that is utilized by a taxidermist is the
freezing of the animal. The taxidermist typically uses a large freezer for
this, usually something akin to the freezer of a butcher, and freezes the
carcass of the animal totally. After this, the taxidermist will remove the skin
and put it aside for later use. The skin will eventually be tanned by the
taxidermist. The remaining muscle, bone and tissue of the skinned animal is
then put into a mixture of plaster that is usually known as "plaster of Paris".
This creates a virtual cast of the animal, from which a foam sculpture is
created. The fur and skin of the animal is then placed on to the foam
sculpture. Glass eyes, false teeth and other implements are sometimes added to
the finished creation, creating as much of a real effect as possible.

There is also something known as rogue taxidermy. This is the art of preparing
animal replicas that are comprised of animals that do not, in fact, actually
exist. The typical mandate of most rogue taxidermists is to "showcase the odd"
and play on the imagination of a buying public. This interesting subset of
taxidermy is often seen as being very creative and very interested in the
showmanship aspect of taxidermy, trying to create the most interesting and
engaging aspects of taxidermy possible.

Crypto-taxidermy is related to rogue taxidermy in some form. The key difference
in crypto-taxidermy is, however, that it is based upon notions of animals that
may exist or based upon notions of animals that may be long extinct. This
refers to the notion of creating woolly mammoths, for example, or dinosaurs
based on the bone structures. This type of taxidermy is also creative, but is
mainly utilized in scientific study purposes and is found displayed in museums.

Hunters take animals to the taxidermist because they want to preserve the
notions of their kill. This is common among big game hunters especially, as
they can preserve the meat for food and can save the skin and fur for display
in their homes. It is also popular to have simply part of the body of the
animal sent to the taxidermist, such as the head. It is common to see large
African animals displayed in the homes of the "Great Hunter" stereotype, as
seen in many films and television programs, but this is typically a limited
aspect of taxidermy. The real aspects of taxidermy involve a trades-person with
expert skills working their magic to make a dead animal look more lifelike.

Many people have never experienced fishing beyond what goes on at the lake
during the summer. Avid anglers know about a whole other world of fishing
waiting for them once the temperature drops. Ice fishing is a fantastic winter
sport and an excellent family activity. It's cheap, it's easy, and it's fun to
do. Here is some basic information about ice fishing in the winter:

Dress warmly, more so than usual. Ice fishing takes place in the open, which
means that winds will be noticeable and can be a factor in comfort. You should
have plenty of layers beneath a windproof coat -- it's best to need to take off
layers than not have enough from the start, as cooling down is easier than
warming up. If the temperature is not very cold and no wind is present, you
will probably be able to take your coat off and remove a few layers.

Waterproof boots are a good idea, as are thick, waterproof gloves. A good pair
of mitts and a spare set (just in case) are fine too. A neck warmer and a hat
are a must. Also, watch out for sunburn -- the reflection of the sun's rays on
the snow and ice can pack a double whammy and leave you with a red face. Your
eyes will also take a hit from the combination of sun and snow, so wear
sunglasses to avoid eye damage.

There is not much equipment involved in ice fishing. If you choose an
outfitter, they will supply you with everything you need from drilled holes to
lines to bait. Many people like to purchase their own ice-fishing equipment for
convenience's sake, but it's best to give the sport a couple of tries to see if
you really enjoy it before heading to the store. If you do decide to buy your
own ice-fishing equipment, here is what you will need:

An ice auger for drilling holes will be your biggest expense. There are
hand-cranked models that can cost about $100 or gas-powered ones that ring in
around $300. Hand-cranked models may be attractive for small budgets but they
can be very tiring to use and demand a certain amount of strength and stamina.
It will also be difficult to open a number of holes in a short amount of time.
Gas-powered models are easier and faster, cutting through ice very quickly, but
they can be heavy to manipulate, though there are smaller models hitting the
market each year.

Beyond the ice auger, you will need lines. There are traditional stick models
that are very simple in construction or rod and reel models. Both models can be
jigged manually to attract fish or can be affixed in the snow or on a rack so
that you don't have to provide hands-on attention. Fishing lines are not a big
expense and lower-end models cost less than $10 each. Flags and gimmicks of
higher-end models don't really affect results.

The last few accessories are very cheap (less than $10 each) and easy to
obtain. You'll need a bucket to hold your bait (usually live minnows), a net
for scooping, an ice spoon to remove slush from holes when they start to freeze
over, and a second bucket to turn over for an impromptu seat. Small hot pads
tucked into your mitts or pockets will help to keep fingers warm, as putting
minnows on hooks usually requires bare hands in frigid temperatures.

When you head out for your day, bring a lunch and some snacks as well as
something to drink. The fresh air will leave you hungrier than usual. Avoid
drinking alcohol, as it's quite easy to go overboard in the cold air and not
notice the effects of one too many until it's too late. In addition, alcohol
tends to lower the body's temperature and makes it difficult to stay warm.

Be sure that the ice is safe to walk or drive on. Test the thickness and keep
an eye out for water or any suspicious areas. The recommended thickness of ice
for walking on is 6 inches. If you are planning to drive a vehicle onto the
ice, wait until the thickness is well over 10 inches. Never drive fast on ice,
even when thickness isn't an issue, as ice is flexible and the weight of a
vehicle creates an air bubble in front of the car. An automobile moving too
quickly can drive over the air bubble. With no water support beneath, the ice
can easily break beneath your vehicle.


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.

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.

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"

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"

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

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

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.

The 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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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 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

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 1/2" to 1 1/2 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

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

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

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?

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 1/2" 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 1/2 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

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

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

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

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?

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 1/2" 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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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