We all have that hobby that we love doing wholeheartedly, especially ones that are done outdoors. There is camping, and there is a hiking, but if there is a hobby that not only satisfies our urge to do our passion but also literally fills our tummies, then it is Fishing.
Fishing for some people is one of the boring hobbies, and yes it is! Having said that, it is good not just for adults but also for kids, especially because it teaches perseverance and patience that is why despite its being a tedious hobby, a lot of people are still into it. Thus, if you are thinking of doing it this weekend, here are the do’s and don’ts for first-timers, like you.
Do’s
Do learn from others who have been enjoying this for a long time. Ask for pieces of advice from them, and make sure to remember all of their suggestions.
Do bring with you so much patience because there is going to be a lot of long waits. It’s not all throw and catch. You have to wait for the fish to bite, and sometimes, or most of the time, it takes hours to start catching fish.
Do look for good fishing sites near you. As a first-timer, it’s not necessary to go to the farthest site as your main goal first is to gain experience and enjoy this pastime.
Do follow fishing rules. There are regulations as to how bigs or how many bags you can only fill with fish. Violating rules like that will cause you trouble.
Do make sure to prepare the necessary things to start fishing. Here are the must-haves you should not forget to bring with you to the fishing site.
- License to Fish - whether for commercial or for recreational purposes, this is indeed needed.
- Fishing line - modern ones are made from braided polymers, nylon or silk. Let’s say you are opting for a braided one, choose the best braided fishing lineas this is one of the most important fishing must-haves and it’s neither expensive.
- Hooks and Sinkers- if there are fishing must-haves that literally catch and connect you to the fish, these are the hooks and sinkers.
- Fishing Rod and Reel- catching fish, especially big ones, need a strong combination of rod and reel.
- Bobbers- it’s a fishing float that temporarily prevents the bait from sinking too deep.
- Hard Bait- it is basically a bait that is hard, which lasts longer than the soft ones, and this looks more like a fish.
- Jigs- if the hard bait does not work, then this one might be an option. With its soft body, it looks attractive to fish.
- Pliers- once you catch a fish, cutting the hooks and lines comes next, and that is done through the help of a Plier.
Failure to bring these fishing gears will make the whole first-time experience a mess.
Do wear proper attire. Wear boots and a waterproof coat in case of bad weather.
To find your first spot. Stay there, but do try a different spot if it’s not working for you for a few hours, and when you find your spot, consider that starting point every time you go fishing. On the other hand, do try new spots on your next fishing days.
Do go with the flow. There is nothing wrong with following your plans, but if plans do not seem to work, let the flow drive you. Doing so will have either have good or bad results, but definitely, both will give you lessons.
Don’ts
Do not forget that you are a beginner as doing so will always make you reminded to enjoy every bit of your first time.
Do not forget to learn the BASICS, for they are your foundations.
- Casting
- Tying Knot
- Putting a line on a fishing reel
- Putting bait in the hook
- Choosing the size of hooks
- Choosing lure colors
- Using net
Do not forget to bring an extra big net. You do know when it’s your lucky day to catch a big fish.
Do not jump into the decision of buying expensive gears. Remember, it’s just your first time, and you are not sure yet if it’s going to be your long-time hobby.
Do not forget to check the weather. While it is a fact that all types of fish live in the waters, those drops of water that come from above (I mean rain) may not be your best friends. Thus, it’s important not to forget to check whether it will be a good fishing day or not.
Do not expect that you will get as many fish like those of other veterans in this hobby. Expecting too much will just stress you out and will probably discourage you to try it again next time.
Do not expect that you will get as many fish like those of other veterans in this hobby. Expecting too much will just stress you out and will probably discourage you to try it again next time.
Do not forget to bring your own food and water, food to fill your tummy while waiting for the fish to bite and water to keep you hydrated, especially if you go fishing on a sunny day.
Do not leave any trash. Cliche it may sound, but indeed, you must leave nothing but footprints. Do not contaminate the waters with your garbage.
Do not forget about your safety, especially if you have kids with you while fishing. Bodies of water might seem harmless, but you’ll never know, it can drown you or your loved ones. Thus, do not forget to wear safety floating devices, like a swimming vest to make sure you will go home with just a dead school of fish.