Fishing

The sport of fishing is a popular activity enjoyed by many anglers all over the world.

Different cultures in different parts of the world have various different methods and tools they use in order to catch fish. In North America, we use what is called fishing tackle. Fishing tackle is comprised of a reel, rod, bait (or lures), fishing line, and usually a pouch or a stringer in order to store your fish.

As you can imagine, purchasing all of this equipment in order to embark on a new hobby can get rather expensive, especially if we purchase each piece brand new from sporting goods stores.

Because of this, finding a way to acquire used tackle is a perfect way to collect everything that you will need in order to begin fishing and without having to break the bank in the process. By just speaking with an experienced fisherman or a tackle store owner about what it is you are looking to purchase can lead you in the right direction for making quality purchases of used equipment.

Remember, there are different tackle or fishing baits for each species of fish you are intending to catch, so be sure that you obtain the right tackle for those fish.

Some sporting goods stores actually advertise the sale of used fishing tackle. Sporting goods stores that are owned privately may also have the ability to sell you quality used pieces as well.

While those stores may seem somewhat less glamorous than the larger chain stores, they can prove to be used fishing tackle gold mines for someone who is on the hunt.

Flea markets, yard sales and estate sales are perfect places to find many kinds of used fishing gear. Many people have had success with local pawn shops as well as they tend to recognize the value of quality used fishing tackle and are happy to sell it for far below what they sell at retail.

Purchasing used tackle is the perfect idea for the beginning fisherman or the angler on a budget. It can also be a great way to go if you are looking to expand your existing collection and diversifying your fishing lures without spending a lot of money.

In any case, it is always appreciated by the small business owners when you support their venue by giving them business. Once they know what you are looking for, they are in a great position for seeking out and locating the kind of used fishing tackle that you are in the market for.

It certainly beats paying full price!

One of the determining factors of success when trout fishing is the kind of tackle that the angler has and the correct use of the equipment.

All trout fishing tackle is not created equal. Making the mistake of opting for a product because it is cheaper could easily make for a frustrating fishing trip. If you instead purchase quality tackle, you will end up saving more money in the long run, as higher quality products will not break as easily as the cheaper ones will.

The trout fishing line that you choose should be as light as possible but still able to support the potential weight of the fish. The use of light lines is important because of the clear and cold waters that trout tend to inhabit.

Because of this environment, fishing line can be rather easy for the trout to see when it is thicker or heavier.

When choosing trout fishing line that will be effective, it is best to aim for four to six pound monofilament and no larger, unless you are in rather extreme situations. Using ultra-light to light tackle will always give the best results when it comes to trout fishing.

You will also want to consider using gang hooks, as these hooks work extremely well when combined with live baits.

Live baits are considered the most practical, effective way to fish for trout. These hooks make fishing extremely convenient, as they allow the angler to offer the fishing bait in the most natural looking form that a fish might recognize in the wild.

Be sure to keep all of your tackle rather small regardless of the brand, design, or color that you end up purchasing for your trip. Contrary to popular belief, this will in no way result in only catching small fish. Smaller tackle is extremely effective in catching larger trout as well.

Since these are very standard and basic guidelines for quality trout tackle, this is not the extent of the knowledge or advice that is available to the beginning fisherman.

With enough time, practice, research, and knowledge, the skills that one needs to develop in order to become a successful and experienced trout fisherman can be easily acquired with a little patience.

Don’t just research your craft in books. Get out on the water and see what works for you.

If you are contemplating the purchase of a new fly fishing rod, you may think you already know exactly what it is that you want to purchase. However, if you are unsure as to what is the best way to go about deciding on your investment, consider the information below before making your purchase.

• Determine what it is that you will be using this particular fishing rod for, as it may affect how much you are willing to spend if you are only going to use it once a year as opposed to on a regular basis.

• Where it is that you intend to fish can do a lot to help you determine which kind of rod you will want. If you fish by sitting on the edge of a pond, you may have different needs than if you wade into a river.

• Fishing on a regular basis could be a determining factor as well. There is no reason to spend a great deal of money on an expensive model if you are only going to use it every once in a while.

• If this new fishing rod is going to be your main rod, you will want to be sure that it meets all of the requirements you may already have for your needs. It is important to not compromise on any of these, especially if it means your own comfort.

• Which kind of weight are you going to be expecting from your new rod? A light rod might be better if you either have to hold it all day or fish in the middle of the river, but if you leisurely fish on the side of a lake, this may not make a difference.

• Be sure the rod will still be easy to use even when your hands are wet and cold.

• If your old fishing reels don’t happen to work very well along with your new rod, you will definitely want to make sure you get the appropriate ones.

• It isn’t so much as important the brand that you purchase, as it is the comfort level of your new rod. While it is important to know which brands you are partial to, never stop experimenting with others.

• While you may have your budget in mind when choosing a new fly fishing rod, there is no point in purchasing a cheaper rod that you will ultimately be unhappy with. If you don’t like the rod you buy, chances are you won’t use it.

Summer is in full swing and fishing season is underway.  The only problem is that your fishing reel keeps sticking and your drag knob keeps making odd noises while you are reeling it in. 

If you happen to have a high quality reel that you are otherwise rather happy with, it is possible that the parts that come into contact with the water have rusted.  This is a common occurrence after a few years of use, and rust can still be present even after rather thorough cleaning sessions.  If you are into saltwater fishing, your reel is also regularly exposed to salt, sand, bacteria, and dirt, which can eventually clog up moving parts and corrode your equipment. 

While routine cleaning can help the corrosion of your fishing reel, the reel's performance can still decline over the years due to the areas of the reel in need of cleaning that is unreachable by human hands. 

Traditional methods of cleaning fishing reels tips are slowly disappearing and being replaced by equipment such as a “Sonicator” or an “Ultrasonic Cleaner.”   When utilizing this process, your fishing reel is put into a tank that is filled with the cleaning solution that comes along with the cleaner.  These cleaners then use high frequency sound waves in order to stir up microscopic bubbles that forcefully implode and distribute the cleaning solution over the entire reel. 

This process is referred to as cavitation, as it forces embedded particles and contaminants out of the fishing reel.  Not only is this process more gentle for the equipment, but it is more efficient than attempting to clean the parts manually, as sonic cleansers have the ability to reach into the places that are otherwise inaccessible. 

Ultrasonic Cleansers come available in various models and shapes in the market.  However, an ideal cleaner for fishing reels should take no more that 30 minutes to complete.  As with many products, it is not recommended to opt for the cheapest version of this sort of cleaner as you run the risk of acquiring a product that is less effective.  Choose a mid-priced, sturdy ultrasonic cleaner and you will keep your expensive fishing gear in good condition for many years to come. 

When maintaining your reels, always be sure to follow some simple guidelines.  Keep your reels covered when you are not using them and avoid laying them out on the ground.  Clean then with and ultrasonic cleaner once a month and your gear will last a lifetime. 

 

Rocket fishing is a technique and fishing rod that was developed in order to make fishing a fun experience for children. Since one doesn’t necessarily need any prior fishing skills to use this rod, the line can easily be cast out so that fishing can begin.

It enables the fishing to take place by allowing children to launch the rocket into the water by using a switch instead of casting traditionally. This makes fishing alongside mom or dad fun because the hook can be cast more simply.

You first pack the fishing bait into the bobber. Then, the rod needs to be put into the firing position with the launch switch pressed in so that the bobber can then be cast out. This eliminates the difficulty in learning the more conventional ways of casting out the line.

Since maintaining their interest requires something to be fun, not many children will be disinterested in launching their own “rocket”.

Of course many parents will wonder how safe this is since it involves the use of a hook.

Thankfully, the rocket rods are specifically designed with the safety of the child in mind. These rods come protected with a plastic covering. Once the covering hits the water, only then is the hook released along with the bait that is attached. This feature significantly reduces the possibility of accidental injury to themselves or to anyone in the vicinity.

A switch on the rod enables it to be cast in distances of 10, 20 and 30 feet once it is pressed. There is even a convenient compartment at the rear of the rod that has room for any fishing tackle to be stored. The safety button protects against any possible unintentional release and also controls the way in which you would like the line cast out.

Since the rocket fishing rod is specifically designed to make fishing easier and fun for children, it is extremely easy to get the hang of.

All you will need to do is determine the area most likely populated by the fish to begin the safe and fun experience of rocket fishing.

The world of sports does not exist in a vacuum. It shares the planet with politics, economics, religion, sociology, and just about every other 'ology' mankind knows.

That planet is not well these days; the earth is bleeding.

The sadness brought on by the oil disaster in the Caribbean may have only just begun; and as the powers that be sit on their asses and point fingers as if figuring who's at fault is finding a solution, the news just keeps getting worse.

Sports is a sanctuary for escapists in times like these, a welcome diversion from painful reality. This tragedy, however, will spill into our asylum and blacken even our holiest of getaways. If humanity doesn't get a handle on the situation soon, the black tide could crawl up the bayou, around to the East Coast and Gulf Coast, and drift throughout the entire Caribbean—to each and every island and beach.

Fishing

Many people don't think of fishing as a sport, but rather an exercise in a survival skill older than man. Sure, competitive bass pros have their place, but fishing is a sport that almost any individual can enjoy. Even without catching a sardine, the experience teaches patience, discipline, and respect for nature.

Now, the beaches and waterways of the Gulf Coast are being bathed in crude, and not catching a fish might be one's best possible outcome.

Southern States

Yes this ecological calamity will spread, but the South it seems, will be hit the hardest. Hurricane season will likely spit the crude all over the coast.

New Orleans (Saints, Hornets), Tampa Bay (Buccaneers, Rays, Lightning),  Miami (Dolphins, Marlins, Heat, Panthers), and Houston (Texans, Astros, Rockets), may find themselves on the front line of this tragedy. Their coastal cities are likely to feel the effects, and could really use the support of their professional sports teams. The SEC and ACC will also need to do their very best to keep spirits up.

The Caribbean

Hispaniola produces some amazing athletes. I couldn't count the number of baseball players that have come out of the Dominican Republic with an abacus. Pierre Garçon is one of several athletes who has come from Haiti as well. Much US aid will be focused on the Gulf Coast, and players from the island will be called upon to aid their homeland.

Cuba is gonna be pissed. There's no real way around it. Like most islands in the Caribbean, Cuba depends heavily on the ocean for much of its nation's nutrition. Cuba, however, has had a trade embargo in place since 1960. Aid to Cuba from the US for this disaster is not likely.

Beach Volleyball

Ah, yes. There may be no sweeter sight than watching Misty May-Treanor spike through a block. The beaches, however, are becoming rather unsightly from the crude as it washes in. In Prince William Sound, Alaska, where the Exxon Valdez spilled approximately 10.8 million gallons in 1989, one can still find crude in the sand just inches below the surface. This would make the Fort Lauderdale Open a lot less sexy.

Surfing

Okay, so it's not exactly Mavericks, but there are ridable waves all over the Caribbean. Actually, they're much more ridable than the killer cove in Half Moon Bay. Surfers have been at the forefront of keeping the oceans clean since the beginning of the sport, and will almost certainly continue the tradition in this time of crisis.

Everything else

Water skiing, wake boarding, swimming, sand castle building, you name it. No man is an island, and this problem is shared by all.

Synopsis

Why write this grim article? I was looking ahead to the September 20th Monday Night Football game, when the 49ers host the New Orleans Saints, when it occurred to me that there may be bigger issues for the city of New Orleans (again) at that time. We can only hope and pray that this mess is dealt with by then and that the effects aren't as apocalyptic as they've seemed recently.

Pointing fingers doesn't put out a fire. Blame is an irresponsible man's game, and it's a burden to be sorted out when the crisis ends. In the meantime, those who give us spectators our mental vacations of sport and leisure may need to be both counted on and consoled.

To dull the suffering, we may indulge, but we are to all remember that no sport, no athlete, no fan, and no man—lives in a vacuum.

The first step in carp fishing is using the correct hook. This may seem like a simple task that requires no thought, but in fact there are many variables in fishing hooks. Choosing the right hook for catching your carp could be the most important step in your fishing expedition. By making sure you choose the right hook before stepping out on the lake, you have taken the first step in ensuring you catch the biggest and best carp possible.

The first aspect of your fishing hook you need to think about is whether to choose a barbed or barbless hook. A barbless hook is easily dislodged by the crafty carp who have many tricks and methods for evading capture and ejecting hooks. Some fisherman must use these hooks due to barbed hooks being banned in many fishing areas. Make sure you check with the officials where you received your fishing license or call the local chapter of the Fishing and Wildlife Service to see if this restriction applies to your area.

If you are lucky enough to be able to fish using a barbed hook, this method will greatly improve your chances of catching carp. The barbed hook will greatly reduced the risk of your carp eating your bait and then slipping away by attaching itself to the inside of the carp’s mouth. Try using a whisker barb to reduce the damage to your carp during this process.

The second matter to consider when purchasing a carp hook is the size. Fishing hooks vary greatly in sizes ranging from 6/0 to 13. When you are choosing a hook remember that the smaller the number, the larger the hook. This means that a size 6/0 hook is the largest you can purchase while the 13 would be the smallest. When looking for a hook for carp you can use any hook between a size four and six. Experiment with these sizes and see which works best for you.

When adding fishing bait to your newly chosen hook, one of the most popular methods for carp fishing is called the hair rig. This method of baiting was invented in England during the 1970’s by Len Middleton and Kevin Maddocks. These two discovered that carp where afraid of the sensation that the hook caused on their lips and would swim away before eating the bait. They devised a method of mounting the bait to human hair attached to the hook. This meant the carp would put the bait in their mouth without feeling the dangerous hook. To create your own hair rig all you need to do is mount any hook length material (wire, twine, ect.) to your hook using a knotless knot. Put your bait on this string and you will find your chances of catching carp has greatly increased.

When fishing for carp, your chances of success begin when you choose your hook. Make sure you remember these tips and you will be catching carp in no time!

If you are thinking about trying your hand at fishing then you’re in luck. 

Below is a list of the beginning fisherman’s essential 10 things that beginners needs to know when packing up your gear and heading towards the water.  In order to ensure a successful fish fry, you must know the most beneficial basics.

1. Do your research.  

Before you cast that first line, make sure you have a general idea about what you are getting yourself into.  There are plenty of fascinating fishing books that can all but put you right in the middle of the action before you even pick up a pole. 

2. Understand the basic procedures. 

Once you have some reading under your belt, you can start by beginning some pre-fishing skills.  Get familiar with such tasks as adding fishing bait to hooks, casting your line and tying knots before you’re drifting with the wind in your boat. 

3. Choose the right equipment for you.  

Beginners will benefit the most from a specific rod and reels that are simpler for someone who is just beginning to cast.  Open-faced fishing reels are never recommended for somewhat just starting out. 

4. The bait is the main course of fishing .  

Be aware of what fish you are trying to catch and what kind of bait attracts them.  Catfish, for example, respond to either specially made bait for catfish or even raw chicken liver while bream fish like insects like crickets.  The wrong bait could mean a long fishing trip. 

5. Location, location, location. 

Have an idea of where your fish have chosen to spawn. Finding these locations lead to a great deal of fish. 

6. Check the weather.  

An overcast sky can lead to some of the most successful fishing trips.  While you can still catch fish in other weather conditions, an overcast sky has proven to be the best. 

7. Dress for success .  

Boots are a must.  As you will usually be required to be near water, boots will be beneficial for the times that you will have to unexpectedly wade into it.  Also, make sure you are wearing layers as the weather can drastically change until the afternoon.  If you have longer hair, it is a good idea that you wear it back in a ponytail. 

8. Bring food.  

Since this will most likely be your first trip, bring a lunch.  Sometimes it can take quite a while before you even get the first bite. 

9. Bug Spray!  

If you are near water you are even closer to bugs, especially mosquitoes.  Remember the bug spray and you should be itch free. 

10. No children, no worries.  

If you have to constantly pay attention to small children, try to not bring them on your fishing trip.  In order to bring home your prized fish, you must have optimal concentration.

Once you master these ten steps you will be catching fish in no time.  With a little knowledge, practice and patience you are on your way to becoming a seasoned fisherman with many fine catches ahead. 

Bass fishing can be, and has proven to be, one of the most rewarding and exhilarating pastimes that any adventure lover can partake in. Anyone can enjoy the excitement and passion that is involved in trying to entice bass into hitting your bait, and most of us love the fact that bass fishing is also quite an affordable hobby to have.

There are many options when it comes to bass fishing tackle and accessories, but the truth is that you do not need all the bells and whistles to have success. You just need to learn a few tricks of the trade, hone your techniques, and be patient. If you can do that then success will follow.

To help you get on track and improve your bass fishing techniques, here are the top 5 secrets for bass fishing that you can use to hook more fish and create memorable stories.

Bass Fishing Secret #1-Patience is a Virtue

Even though nighttime bass fishing can bring forward incredible results, success does not come over night. The key to becoming a great bass angler is to practice and learn to be patient. The fish you are after are much smarter than other species and you simply never know what they may be looking for, where they could be hiding, or what kind of mood they are in.

On one particular day these crafty fish may choose to strike anything you throw into the water, while on others it may seem as though there are no bass in the water at all. If you are patient, keep your line in the water, and keep your lines tight, success will come in due time.

Bass Fishing Secret #2- Be Aware of your Surroundings

Bass are very aware of what is going on around them and are a lot smarter than most anglers give them credit for. If they notice something that is out of place or does not look normal, they will scurry away in no time. That is why you should always pay attention to everything around you.

When selecting a bass fishing spot analyze the natural food sources that are around and seek out areas where your bait would fit in. Be sneaky, be quiet, and stick close to natural food sources, and bass will practically come to you.

Bass Fishing Secret #3- Learn and Study Location

Aside from being aware of what is going on around you, it is important to learn as much as you can about the location where you plan on fishing for bass. Being able to locate bass can often be the hardest part of catching them, so if you know the lake or river you are fishing in then you will be much better equipped at finding them.

Bass tend to congregate around natural and manmade structures such as ledges, rocks, banks, and grassy areas so take the time to seek out those spots and familiarize yourself with them.

Bass Fishing Secret #4- Timing is everything

The times that you choose to go bass fishing are crucial for your success. This species of fish is reluctant to be aggressive during the day and tends to stay out of the light as much as possible. Timing your fishing trips in the late evenings or early mornings can drastically improve your fishing results.

Even better than that, grab your fishing rod and head out on the water during overcast days or when drizzling rain is dropping across the waters.

Bass Fishing Secret #5- Take Advantage of the Current

Currents on any body of water, such as lakes, rivers, or pools, are often your very best tools when bass fishing. There is no body of water that is completely still, and once you find a current you will realize just how much it can benefit you on the whole. Bass enjoy currents because of the cooler temperatures that can be found within them and the fact that baitfish are always teaming up in those areas.

Once you notice baitfish on the surface of the water there is a good chance that you have found a current. Start fishing and you can trick the bass into thinking you are providing them with natural, fulfilling food.

The more that you fish, the more you are going to learn. Jot these top 5 bass fishing secrets down, pack up your gear, and then get out on the water. Success comes to those that are willing to put in the effort, so get out there and make it happen.

Wet Fly Fishing  - Wet fly fishing is a technique that uses weights to sink the fly to the bottom of a body of water. Considering that trout are generally bottom feeding fish, especially when there no bugs on the surface, wet fly fishing can often prove to be a smart option.

Dry Fly Fishing  - Other times, it may be best just to use a standard dry fly fishing style. In dry fly fishing, the line is used to float insects on the surface of the water.

If you decide to try this method, always bring a few extra flies with you. Once a fish takes the bait, the fly becomes wet and no longer ideal for floating. If you have some extras, you can use those while the wet fly dries off.

It's much easier to feel a bite using this technique and it can be a real thrill when a fish that typically feeds from the bottom jumps out to strike.

Kayak Fly Fishing - Notably different from the usual fly fishing techniques as it is typically done from a seated position, kayak fly fishing has grown more and more popular in recent years.

It might sound a little bit uncomfortable at first, but it's actually relatively simple. However, you'll want avoid casting too forcefully in order to to keep the boat steady. This is doubly important as cold waters can be deadly as they begin to get close to freezing. You should always take the water temperature into consideration when planning a kayak fishing trip. Be prepared for the possibility of taking a spill. Staying too long in very cold waters could lead to a case of hypothermia that, in many cases, could prove deadly.

You'll also want to be sure to check a general weather report before undertaking a kayak fishing trip. Any kind of stormy weather on the horizon can cause waves, wind, and lightning that can ruin things altogether similar to deep sea fishing. Even a regular rainstorm can put a damper on things.

In addition, to be safe, you'll want to be sure that you always wear your vest and bring a whistle, mobile phone, and flares. In an emergency, these tools can be the difference between life and death. Finally, it's always a good idea to bring along a friend on a kayak fly fishing trip as your best safety measure. You can seriously decrease your risk factor by having another helping hand in case things go south.