Fishing for Beginners: Advice from a Former Beginner, Ha!

It’s a brand-new year — a time for fresh starts, resolutions, and the excitement of learning something new. Maybe you’ve always been intrigued by the tranquil beauty of a sunrise over a calm lake or the thrill of reeling in a fish from the deep blue sea. Perhaps, like me, you landed a fantastic job in the fishing world, and suddenly you’re immersed in an ocean of lures, rods, and bait. Or maybe you’re in a relationship with an avid angler and want to learn the ropes to share in their passion. Whatever brought you here, welcome to the world of fishing!

Fishing might seem overwhelming at first with its array of gear, jargon, and unwritten rules. But don’t worry, every angler starts at square one. Oh, and there’s that other matter: you have to touch a fish? This guide will help you get your feet wet with essential tips, what to pack for a trip, an introduction to common fishing terms, and etiquette when sharing the water with fellow anglers.

Let’s start with the why—why start fishing? Fishing isn’t just about catching fish; it’s a journey that offers so much more. It provides relaxation, giving you a chance to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature. There’s excitement too — nothing compares to the thrill of feeling that tug on your line. Beyond the catch, it fosters connection, whether you’re enjoying the serenity alone or creating lasting memories with friends and family. Every outing is also an opportunity for learning, offering insights into fish behavior, weather patterns, and new techniques. For me, stepping away from my keyboard, getting to be outside — and getting better with every outing —is a challenge that absolutely excites me.

Essential Gear for Beginners

You don’t need to break the bank to start fishing, but having the right gear makes all the difference. The more I got out there, the more things I found myself wanting to make my trip more comfortable. If you’re starting out on fishing charters, most companies offer rental rods that’ll work with whatever type of fishing they’re doing that day, as well a small store that sells licenses, weights, hooks, lures, etc. Here’s my suggestion for a basic checklist of what you may need:

1. Rod and Reel: A spinning rod and reel combo is perfect for beginners because it’s versatile and easy to use. I went out last week and had to take a break from my conventional rod because I missed the simplicity of my spinning rod.
2. Fishing Line: Monofilament line is beginner-friendly and works well for most types of fishing. Monofilament fishing line, often referred to simply as “mono,” is a single-strand line made from nylon or similar synthetic materials. It has a smooth, round cross-section with a consistent thickness throughout its length.
3. Hooks: Get a variety of hook sizes to match different bait and target fish species. I like to use 1/0 – 2/0 J-hooks when I go out.
4. Bait: You can use live bait (anchovies or sardines) or artificial lures. Soft plastic baits, crankbaits, and spinners are great starter lures. Cut bait (squid or even sardines) is also very successful when fishing for species like bass.
5. Tackle Box: A small box with compartments for your hooks, lures, sinkers, and other essentials will keep you organized. Don’t be intimidated when the pros roll in with their tackle backpacks. Those guys are fishing every day in all types of conditions — that’s why they have so much gear.
6. Pliers: These are handy for removing hooks from fish and cutting line.
7. Fishing License: Make sure you have a valid fishing license for the area in which you’ll be fishing. It’s not uncommon to be stopped by Fish and Game for a quick yet thorough inspection.
8. Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun, even on overcast days. For those who have long hair like I do, I suggest throwing those locks in some braids to prevent a big knot in your hair.
9. Snacks and Water: Stay hydrated and keep your energy up. Having some sustenance in your stomach is an effective way to prevent seasickness.
10. Wipe Rag: For me, this is a big one. A rag is essential for anglers to wipe hands after handling bait or fish. It keeps hands clean and dry, improving grip and protecting gear from fish slime and odors.

Fishing Terminology: Speak the Language

Like any hobby, fishing has its own lingo. Here are a few key terms you’ll want to know:

• Casting: Throwing your bait or lure into the water using your rod and reel.
• Reeling: Turning the handle on your reel to bring in the fishing line.
• Drag: The mechanism on your reel that controls how much resistance a fish feels when it pulls on the line.
• Bite: When a fish takes the bait or lure.
• Hookset: Quickly pulling back on the rod to drive the hook into the fish’s mouth after a bite.
• Tackle: A general term for fishing equipment, including rods, reels, lines, lures, and hooks.
• Strike: When a fish aggressively goes for your bait or lure.

Onboard Etiquette: Be a Respectful Angler

Fishing is often a social activity. Whether you’re on a pier, a boat, or the shoreline, practicing good etiquette ensures that everyone has a pleasant experience. Respecting personal space by giving fellow anglers enough room to cast and fish without interference is essential. If you’re on a boat and one of your fellow anglers has an aggressive swimmer on their line, be aware and give them space to follow that line around the boat. Play it clean by disposing of trash properly and avoiding leftover fishing line or bait. If you’re out on a friend’s boat, be sure to lend a hand; helping to net a fish or untangle a line fosters camaraderie. Lastly, always follow local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, and respect catch-and-release guidelines where applicable.

What to Pack: The Ultimate Fishing Day Checklist

In addition to your basic gear, packing smart can make your fishing trip more enjoyable. Here’s a list of extras that can come in handy:

• Multi-tool or Knife: Useful for cutting line, opening bait packages, and more.
• Fishing Net: Helps land the fish without harming it.
• Polarized Sunglasses: These reduce glare on the water and help you see fish below the surface.
• First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor cuts or scrapes.
• Bug Spray: Keep pesky insects at bay.
• Portable Chair: If you’re fishing from shore, a chair can make your day more comfortable.
• Towel: Handy for wiping your hands after handling bait or fish. I also use a hand deodorizer. Sardines leave a trail of scales on your hands but anchovies leave a smell.

Set Yourself Up for Success: Beginner Fishing Tips

Start small by choosing a simple fishing setup and targeting common fish species like bluegill or trout. Learning to tie basic knots, such as the improved clinch knot and Palomar knot, is essential for beginners. Be patient, as fishing is as much about the overall experience as it is about catching fish. Take time to observe the water for signs of fish activity, such as jumping fish or ripples on the surface. Checking the weather is also important, as fish tend to bite more before a storm or when there’s cloud cover. Lastly, timing your trip can make a big difference, with early morning and late afternoon often being the best times to fish.

Catch and Release: Do It Right

If you’re not planning to keep your catch, practicing proper catch and release helps preserve fish populations. Here’s how:

1. Use Barbless Hooks: These make it easier to release the fish without causing injury.
2. Handle with Care: Wet your hands before touching the fish to protect its slime coating.
3. Minimize Air Exposure: Keep the fish in the water as much as possible.
4. Gently Remove the Hook: Use pliers if necessary and be quick but careful.
5. Revive the Fish: If the fish appears tired, hold it gently in the water until it swims away on its own.

Learning from Experience

Every angler has stories of the one that got away or the perfect catch. Don’t be discouraged if your first few trips don’t go as planned — every outing is an opportunity to learn. I can catch bass until the sun goes down but I can’t snag that halibut. Nonetheless, patience and practice will get me there. Joining local fishing clubs, watching online tutorials, and reading articles (like this one!) can accelerate your learning.

And Finally, Welcome to the Fishing Community

Starting a new hobby is always a little daunting, but fishing offers a rewarding blend of relaxation, challenge, and connection with nature. As you embark on this journey, remember that every expert angler was once a beginner. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. In fact, I’ve asked the deck crew to watch how I do things and provide corrections if needed. Whether you’re learning to share a loved one’s passion, diving into the world of fishing for work, or simply trying something new in the new year, you’re in for an adventure.

And if you’re like me, welcome to what might just become your new favorite hobby.