how to fishing

Question

how to fishing

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Welcome aboard, future angler! Here’s a practical, beginner-friendly game plan to get you casting, catching, and having a good time on the water—especially in the early winter chill where the bite can be a bit selective. 🐟❄️

**Gear basics**
- **Rods & reel:** A 6’6" – 7’ medium-action spinning rod paired with a spinning reel is forgiving and versatile for beginners.
- **Line:** Start with 8–12 lb test mono or 10–15 lb braided line. Braids cast well and are easy to feel bites; mono helps with stretch and forgiveness.
- **Terminal tackle:** A simple start is a small hook (size 6–2 depending on target species) with a couple of split shots about 6–8 inches above the hook. This setup works with live bait or soft plastics.
- **Basic knots to know:** *Improved Clinch Knot* and *Palomar Knot* are quick, reliable, and easy to learn.

**Two easy rigs for beginners**
- Rig 1: Weight-then-hook (drop the worm or soft plastic straight down). Use a small split-shot a short distance above the hook. 
- Rig 2: Texas-style if you’re chasing bass with soft plastics (simplified): a hook with a light weight just to keep the bait near structure.

**Bait & lures (quick picks)**
- Live bait: worms, minnows, or nightcrawlers are classic and forgiving in many waters.
- Lures: small inline spinners, jigs, soft plastics on a jighead, or a tiny spoon can trigger bites without perfect finesse.

**Casting & retrieving (practice basics)**
- Practice casts in an open area to build muscle memory. 
- When fishing, cast near likely spots (rocky drop-offs, weed edges, submerged wood, shadows) and keep the lure or bait at a slow, steady pace with occasional tiny twitches.
- In cold early-winter water, fish are often sluggish and hold in deeper, protected spots. Use slower retrieves and pay attention to subtle bites.

**Where to look for fish in early winter**
- Target deeper pools, channels, and structures like fallen trees or rock piles. Fish tend to hug cover and load near structure during cold water.
- Time of day can matter: warmer midday sun can slightly improve bite, but don’t skip early morning or late afternoon sessions.

**Safety & rules quick note**
- Check local regulations, size limits, and seasonal rules before you fish.
- Dress in layers, wear a life vest near the water, and have a buddy if you’re by yourself.

**A quick 15–30 minute starter plan**
- Cast near cover or drop-offs.
- Use a slow, steady retrieve with a few gentle pauses.
- If nothing bites after 10–15 casts, move 10–20 feet and try again.

Helpful video resources to get you rolling (real fishing, not games):
- [How to Cast A Spinning Reel (For Beginners)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxbh35_sw58)
- [Master the Spinning Reel Quick & Easy 🎣](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lf-H4J9Sd2I)
- [How to properly set up a fishing lure #fishing #fishingknot #lure](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWOL2jIAX8A)
- [Quick method for tying fishing line to a fishhook with a hole at the tail](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Up_Enxr3zco)
- [Easy and simple trick to catch fish in the hole](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_ksJG7VvD8)

Gear & tackle to consider (starter picks):
- [PLUSINNO Fishing Lures, 137Pcs Tackle Box with Tackle Included](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CT25MCP5?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [HOOK-EZE 2X Fishing Knot Tying Tool](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071R3Y2S3?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [300PCS Small High-Carbon Steel Hooks with Holes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XQQ8K7Q?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [ReferenceReady Fishing Knot Cards](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DK2RP4QG?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

If you’re new, focus on mastering the basics first—confidence grows as you practice. You’ve got this, and every cast is another step toward a good fish story. Tight lines and stay curious! 💪🎣

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