Dock Fishing
Dock fishing is an excellent introduction to freshwater fishing for any new angler, including children, and does not require any special gear, such as a boat. While you should never expect to get a strike from a trophy fish while fishing off the docks, it is a great way to get a feel for the waters as you practice the art of fishing and hooking.
Spearing or Noodling
Spearing is a great method to catch larger river fish that tend to ignore baited hooks. Noodling is a very basic fishing method as it uses the angler’s fingers to wiggle and become the bait, tempting the fish to grab onto their hand. One of the most popular fish to catch by spearing or noodling is Catfish.
Boat Fishing
The most popular type of freshwater fishing is boat fishing, because it gives the angler access to a larger variety of fish species. The boat can be a large boat, small rowboat, or even a canoe or kayak depending on where you are fishing. A boat can be beneficial for trolling, when the situation allows, but typically just provides a way to get to different sections of the water before casting your line.
Freshwater Fly Fishing
If you are fishing in waters where it is safe to wade, then you may want to try fly fishing. Fly fishing uses a tied fly designed to imitate the look of a natural insect to trick the fish onto the line. It is a great way to target trout and other species, but requires more knowledge and technique than other fishing methods.
Ice Fishing
Popular in the north, ice fishing is typically done on lakes or ponds using an auger, a special hole-making tool, to create a hole in the ice and grant access to the water beneath it. This method is a great way to catch larger Northern Pike, or other species that can be caught in the summer such as Crappies and Bass.
Freshwater Fishing Bait
Before you head out to the water, you need to make sure you are equipped for success. That means choosing freshwater fishing bait to get the fish you want to strike, whether it’s a Bass, Crappie, Northern Pike or another species. For a new angler this can be one of the most difficult decisions, as there are as many different types of bait as there are fish; yet, if you ask yourself three questions, and speak to some local seasoned anglers, you will have a good idea of what you need:
- What fish are you going for? Knowing what your target species eats is going to make a huge difference when you are choosing bait.
- Do you want live or artificial bait? This is usually a decision an angler will make based on preference or past experience.
- How much bait do you need? Fish are fickle. One day you will find yourself struggling to get a nibble, but the next you will catch fish after fish using the same bait as the day before. If you are wondering how much bait you need, remember that having options will increase your odds at getting a strike in case one of them just isn’t doing the trick. As a general guide, speak with local anglers and pick out the top three baits they recommend for your target species.
Freshwater Fishing Gear
Once everything is all set and you are almost ready to head out, it’s time to pick up your gear. Some anglers will tell you that all you need is a rod, reel, hook and some bait, while others will give detailed explanations about how technology is going to completely change your fishing game. Neither angler is right or wrong. The freshwater fishing gear you pick out is going to be largely dependent on your own preferences. If you speak to other anglers for advice and suggestions, just remember that fishing is an art and as your technique changes for certain species, your gear will too, so what works for one angler will not necessarily work for you. As a general guide, the following are some items to consider as you are investing in your freshwater fishing gear and accessories:
- Fishing Rod
- Fishing Reel
- Fishing Line
- Fishing Hooks
- Nets
- Rigs
- Bait, Lures, and Tackle
- For Freshwater Boat Fishing: Fish Finders, Electronics, Electronics Box, Storage Bag
