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No Fortune Needed to Go Fishing
by Drew Hennigar
http://www.fishingmyway.com
Stroll into any fishing gear store and you will see an
overwhelming array of merchandise -- some with fancy
prices. However, you don't need a fortune to get started
fishing.
Required equipment includes bait, sinkers, hooks, bobbers,
line, rod and reel, along with a tackle box to store your
new and future gear. Along with a license that most outdoor
stores sell, you're all set for one of the great pastimes.
A basic fishing rod is about six feet long. The handle is
generally made of either foam or cork. Grips are available
in a variety of lengths and sizes to fit any hand.
Experiment with various sizes to find the one that feels
the most comfortable. Rods are classified from ultra light
to heavy. Choose the strength of the rod based on the fish
you will catch.
Frequently the reel will be sold with the rod as a package
that offers savings over a separate purchase. You will need
fishing line to string your rod and reel that has the
correct "test," which tells you how much weight the line
can withstand before breaking.
All fishing supply stores will stock two to ten pound test,
so select your line based on the fish you plan to catch.
If uncertain, get a medium strength, such as a four or six
pound test. Another factor, though, is fishing location.
Stronger line will be required for lakes with a lot of
plants and rocks that could invite snagging.
Hooks are found in a variety of styles and sizes. Buy a
good assortment, as they are cheap. Again, make a selection
depending on the size of the fish you seek, bearing in mind
that the smaller the number on the package the larger the
hook. Try a few types to determine the hooks that work
best for you.
You have two basic choices in bait: live or artificial
lures. Consult with the store clerk about effective
artificial lures and select a couple. Various critters can
be used in fishing, but the most common live bait is
earthworms and minnows.
If you like, dig your own earthworms on a damp night with
the aid of a flashlight. Keep the worms alive by filling a
container with moist soil, grass and leaves. Slice the
worm to the size needed for the hook.
Minnows are usually available in three sizes. Choose the
size that fits your fishing plan. Just before throwing your
line into the water, insert the minnow upside down on the
hook. The fish is attracted by the movement of the minnow
trying to turn over.
Two other essential items that cost little are bobbers and
sinkers, sold in different sizes and shapes. Bobbers float
and tell when a fish is showing interest in your bait.
With the pressure of the fish's bite, the bobber will go
below the water.
Sinkers, as the name implies, sink your bait deeper into
the water. Want more depth, add a heavier sinker. Select a
few different types of sinkers and bobbers to experiment
with on your fishing trip. Enjoy your research!
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