Fishing With Myself
As I write this, the lovely fishing pole that Jody sent me for my birthday almost a year ago is leaning against the wall by my front door. The reel has been cranked a few times to demonstrate the cool flashing lights, but so far the rod has yet to be used to catch a fish. That’s something I think needs to be changed. There’s only one problem.
I’ve never gone fishing by myself.
When I was a kid my parents or grandparents took me fishing. When I grew up, my Dad, who is a dyed in the wool angler, took me fishing. I’ve never had to bait my own hook, set up my own rod and reel or take my own fish off the hook. I don’t have the first idea what should go in a tackle box or how to set up a rod properly for fishing. Even though I’ve been fishing several times over the course of my life, I really have no idea how to go about fishing, other than taking an already prepared rod and casting it from the boat or from shore. I am, in short, woefully uneducated when it comes to how to fish.
I’ve always enjoyed fishing and part of me is kind of dismayed that I don’t know more about it than I do. Of course, when I start thinking about fishing on my own, I remember hooks and the fact that I’m not all that great with sharp things. I remember slimy fish, and wonder if Jody will loan me some handi-wipes. I remember crawly worms, which are only a step away from snakes, and then I wonder if I could use flies or lures, until I remember I don’t know which flies or lures to use. As you can clearly see, I’m desperately in need of help and advice. That’s why I’m turning to all of you.
Those of you who fish, please share any advice that you would give a novice angler. What do you wish you’d known when you started fishing? What was the first time you went fishing on your own like? Please leave any tips or advice you’d like in the comments section.
8 Comments
wanderingowl
I would find somebody willing to take you out and show you how to fish with a worm under a bobber. Simple and effective and cheap. You’ll more than likely catch panfish – like bluegill – and will be rewarded by some of the best eating out there.
Anyway – keep it simple and fun!
Wolfy
Comment Kristine – I’m a big fan of taking newcomers fishing, whether they are kids or adults. Owl’s comment is on the mark -you really should go with someone who is familiar with the area, fish, and seasonality first. Seasonal timing, and understanding how it affects fish movement, is critical in determining when and where you fish. And most people will catch fish – the only thing EVERY novice fisher-person needs to do!
If you’re still looking for specific advice after you get coments from this blog post, I’d be glad to help you out in the Spring. And we’ll do it with lures – no need to mess with worms, unless you really want to use worms.
Wolfy
Matt
Comment Glad to hear you’re going fishing. I’d take you if you lived closer!
But seriously, the advice in the previous comments is good. Remember that Field & Stream rated Traverse City one of the top fishing towns in the country. There must be some good resources available.
If you don’t have a fishing partner in mind, start at a bait shop. Hang around and ask questions. Buy a couple lures and ask the proprietor how to use them.
If there’s a public fishing pier in your area, that’s a good place to observe other anglers. Good luck!
Arthur
Kristine, it’s too bad you don’t live closer. I’d be more than happy to take you out fishing. My Father-in-Law’s pond is perfect for first-timers.
I think the advice the other guys gave is great. Although it will not keep you from possibly having to touch a few worms, or taking a few fish off the hook.
Gabe Davis
I would suggest contacting your state wildlife agency. You would be surprised how helpfull they will be if they are anything like the TWRA that we have in Tennessee. Or locate a local boy scout troop. They would enjoy taking someone and teaching them to fish. Probably earn them a badge. Anyway good luck and don’t be afraid of trial and error, I have learned as much from just being out their trying something as I have from other people. Your pal the Envirocapitalist.
Jean
Comment Do you have to catch fish when you go fishin’? Wish I could be help but with freshwater fishing, I’m in the same boat or at least the boat next to you.
Basic fishing is one of the classes they give at Becoming an OutdoorsWoman workshops. You will find a way. Good luck and good fishin’.
Time spent in the field is never a waste.
Blessed
I’d check with your state DNR – if they have any type of outdoors training program for women I’m sure fishing is on the course list. Signing up for that class would be a great way to learn some about fishing and probably make some new friends – potential fishing buddies and maybe even more! You never know till you try…
Le Loup
Comment Over the years I have spent a good deal of time alone, fishing is one of those times, like hunting.
No one showed me how to fish, I always thought it was a fairly basic living skill. Sure you can get fancy if you want, but I just fish with hand forged hooks on a linen line.
I search about for a grub, under rocks is good, or rotten timber. Bait the hook and throw it in.
Use this time alone to observe and learn.
Regards, Le Loup.
http://woodsrunnersdiary.blogspot.com