21 Fishing Tips for Beginners To Instantly Be a Better Angler

Fishing is so much more than a wonderful way to spend time in nature. It’s also incredibly satisfying when you finally get a catch! So if you’ve just started stocking your tackle box, we walk you through everything you need to know to start reeling in like a pro. Read on, or jump to where you want to start first:

Making sure your day is a success begins with safety first. Prioritizing this means you won’t have to worry about sunburns or hunger calling your day short. Even if you plan on a short trip, don’t forget the following:

Staying healthy and hydrated is key to a great day of fishing. Plus, a camping hot dog can be used for bait in a pinch! Lugging a spare cooler for snacks and water becomes even more essential for those extra-long fishing trips in the hot sun.

You’ll make several of your most important decisions right at home. Not all rods, reels, and tackle are interchangeable. The more intentional you are with your preparation, the better organized your fishing trip will be.

Knowing your ideal location ahead of time helps narrow down what you’ll need to buy and bring with you. Freshwater versus saltwater gear drastically. So do the types of rods and reels you’d use inshore and offshore. As for the actual spot you’ll cast? The best ones are often heard through the grapevine. Ask around or call ahead to find out all about them!

Fish early, or fish late. Fish typically eat the most in the mornings and evenings. They also tend to stay quiet in the middle of the day. That’s not to say you can’t fish all day long! Just don’t expect as many bites at high noon.

Where you fish also determines what you are fishing. Doing some research into the particular species ahead of time sets you up for success! You’ll likely need slightly different gear for the various species you plan to catch. Once you gather info about your game, you can shop for the best rod, reel, lures, and/or bait for the job.

Once you’ve zeroed in on the species you’re fishing for, you can decide the best type of bait and lures to bring. If you’re fishing with artificial lures, you’ll need to move your rod and line in a way that makes your lure mimic live bait in a natural way to get the attention of unsuspecting fish.

Now that you know what you’re fishing for, you can build your kit around what you want to catch. Here are some tips for stocking your tackle box with purpose and avoiding unnecessary expenses:

• Rod and Reel: A spinning rod and reel combo is perfect for beginners. It’s sold together and easier to set up. They also allow you to cast a long distance with a light lure and are one of the more affordable options.

• Lures: A Zoom 6” Trick Worm is a great beginner’s lure. They are easy to stick on a hook and don’t require any special knots.

• Hooks: Keep your fishing hooks simple and multi-purpose. It should be an all-purpose hook that holds bait as easily as it ties it to your line.

• Lines: We recommend a monofilament fishing line to start since it can hold its weight. It’ll be strong enough to reel in all sorts of different varieties of fish. It’s also very manageable and easy to tie hooks with.

• Hook Sharpeners: Make your hooks look brand new with a hook sharpener. You’ll catch a lot more fish than you will with old ones.

Tackle boxes are a classic, durable, and waterproof option. Tackle bags and backpacks are also great alternatives for hauling even more gear. Choose an option that has sturdy straps and latches as well as several compartments.

Although the most successful fishing trips start at home, here are a few things to keep in mind while reeling (or waiting to reel) them in.

Consider using a fish finder. While skilled anglers can actually catch what they can’t see, you might need some extra help. Think about adding a fish finder to your kit! They’re so much more useful than you’d think for knowing what’s under the water (and where), water depths, and other cool features.

Patience is just part of the sport! If you’re not catching anything, you’re likely not doing anything wrong. Don’t head home empty-handed. Try a new spot on the water, a rig, or new bait. Once you’re home, reassess your prep work, what’s working well, and what isn’t.

• Worms are a natural food source for many types of fish. They release enticing smells when they wriggle on your hook.

• PowerBait is a moldable, man-made substance that achieves this same effect — minus the wriggling.

• Fish are less likely to swallow the whole hook, which makes it easier to get them off your line and safely back in the water.

• You can use this ‘rule’ to help you learn about which type of lure is best. When in doubt, go for something shiny with feathers — or anything wormlike. Fish love worms, after all!

Don’t worry about getting your line wet. Instead, focus on your family. Be patient. Help the kids cast their lines, bait their hooks, and remove fish from their hooks. They’ll grow into better anglers as they get older or fish more frequently.