About Freshwater Fishing
For nearly as long as man has been on earth, fishing has been a way to provide sustenance. The finest fishermen were the hero's of the day and were able to claim the finest of their bounty. Today, however, although fishing is still an important part of food supplies it is also a sport participated by millions all over the world. Many love to compete in tournaments and equally as many just like to go to the local lake or river and relax with their hobby. There is a lot of trial and error when it comes to fishing particularly if you are going after a certain species or larger fish, you will find that you need to experiment with baits and lures or your technique in many cases.
Even though you think that you may have discovered a virgin fishing location, someone would have been there before. Fish are not as daft as some people think and they do get familiar with techniques used over and over again in the same locations, consequently they will get disinterested. With this in mind, to prevent the fish getting bored, vary your technique. You want to be able to convince the fish that your bait or lure is dinner so make it as natural as possible, as in look and movements. Use live bait if you can as this can increase your success of catching bigger fish, in particular. It is said that bigger fish are less convinced by pretend food.
You need to kit yourself out with high quality tackle, so when you go shopping for your gear read up on what you should be buying. Having inferior equipment can be one of the main reasons for the big one getting away and they will never believe you down at the pub. Be sure to have top quality hooks and the best line that money can buy. Having said that, you don't have to go mad with your rod and reel. So long as your rod is flexible and tough and your reel possesses good drag quality you stand more chance of landing that big fish.
Select your location carefully as this is one of the most important considerations. No matter how good your preparations and equipment, choose the wrong location and your day will be a failure. Choose a location where the water is clean and pollution free and not too over grown with weed and other vegetation. Avoid areas crowded with other anglers or people in general. The less competition you have and the less activity going on the banks will go a long way to increase your chances of catching fish.
When you have chosen your spot, relax and be patient. Keep any movements and noise to a minimum. There are some good times to fish such as before and after a full or new moon also watch the weather forecast for storm fronts as fishing before one can be a good time. The mating season can also be a good time to go fishing (the fish's, not yours).
One final thing to take into account before you toddle off for your day's fishing, check out whether you need any permission to fish or you might get your collar felt.
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