So you enjoy fishing. Whether you're a casual fan or die hard veteran angler, it's in your blood. When you head out onto the water, what kinds of habits do you take with you? Do you fish in the same spot for hours, or do you move around trying to follow the fish? Do you prefer live bait or artificial lures? No matter the methods or tricks you have up your sleeve, these 7 tips will help every angler hoping for that next trophy.
1. Check your line before you venture out.
This is at the top of the list for one reason: Besides your rod and lure, what is the only thing between you and the fish? Some don't pay attention to their fishing line as much as others, which can make for a very rough time on the water. You'll want to inspect it and make sure that its not getting old, frayed, dirty, or just plain weak. Re-spooling only takes about 5 minutes if done correctly and can ensure that your line will be strong and maintain low visibility. Lord forbid you make that one cast that turns a spool of line into a complete tangled mess of a "birds nest," leaving you with 15 minutes of pulling out line and eventually cutting it.
2. Wear a pair of polarized sunglasses.
So you might have heard that some sunglasses will make you see through the water better, almost like a pair of x-ray specs. When I first heard this, I didn't believe it. I thought they were just a gimmick and for years I ignored them entirely. It turns out I was dead wrong. Polarized sunglasses help you see so much more underwater by removing the glare of the sun off of the water surface. These glasses alone have helped me see fish bite my lure in some cases. I regret the years not having a pair on me while at the lake. Don't make my mistake, get a pair.
3. Follow the wind.
Sometimes wind can nearly ruin an entire fishing trip. We've all experienced those gusts that turn a 35 yard cast into a 35 inch cast. But believe it or not wind can be a good thing; a great thing even. Zooplankton and other small food sources are blown along shorelines, attracting baitfish, that attract big game fish that you're after. Hone in on these wind-blown shorelines and you'll find fish. Also when fishing under mild wind, the waves will cut out a good amount of light underwater, making your lure appear more realistic by hiding its imperfections from fish.
4. Slow-Fast-Medium.
When finding that right tempo, that certain pattern that drive the fish completely nuts for your lure, you always need to keep in mind: Slow-Fast-Medium. These are the three speeds you have to adjust with in order to get to that tempo. If you just keep fishing the same speed over and over with no results, you'll miss the bite. Start slow, then fast, then at medium speeds. Give each retrieve its own time for a few minutes and then switch it up. The more carefully you adjust your retrieve, the easier it will be to find that bite.
5. Find the Prime Time.
Every body of water is different. This is obvious but sometimes little quirky things will work on one lake that will never work on another lake. And believe me, there are way too many factors that determine how that works. But here are where your fishing instincts come into play: You can always determine what works on each lake and when it works. There's a prime time on every lake, that 30-45 minute period where the sunset is angled just right, and the fish are at their dinner tables. This is normally the best of the best time to get out there. If your busy life allows you only an hour per week of fishing time, get out there during this time.
6. Be Social.
Its always good to make a new friend, especially if that friend is willing to help your catch more fish. This can be easily one of the best tips on the list if you're at a new body of water, and have no idea where to start first. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not saying to go to every fisherman out there and conduct a full-on interview. Just don't be afraid to chat a little and ask what the fish are being caught on. There might be one color out there that works 10 times better than any other at that lake. Some people will keep their secrets, and others will share them.
7. Don't wear your hook on your sleeve.
This is more of a guideline than a tip. Whether you're new to fishing or a lifetime veteran, your worst enemy is discouragement. Sometimes there are just "those days" where you'll ride your boat into every corner of the lake or walk three miles of shoreline with no results. This happens typically in between season changes, and yes, its very frustrating to say the least. But don't let that discourage you from keeping on. When you wear your hook on your sleeve, you put yourself at risk for disappointment. Just get out there, enjoy being in the outdoors, never stop trying, and a fish will find its way to you.
For more fishing information and tips, visit www.catchfishtoday.com [http://www.catchfishtoday.com].
Joe DePort A.K.A. "Joe Angler" is owner of Catchfishtoday.com and is always willing to help teach others how to catch more fish on their next outdoor adventure. To contact for any further questions, visit our website or message us on twitter @Catchfishtoday.
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