Fishing: A Guide to Getting Hooked

I think that when those who are new to fishing think of it, they think that it’s this time warp that someone steps into and then emerges 12 hours later, sometimes with nothing to show for it except that they are sweatier and tanner than when the day started. There is also that one fishing story that has somehow morphed from the person catching a 6-inch fish to them wrestling their 28-inch fish from the jaws of a gator. You know the one.

The Benefits

It is time to change that perception, because fishing is so much more than that! Yes, that perception may not be wholly inaccurate (lol), but there are loads of reasons to get into this classic hobby.

• Stress relief. From the increase in oxygen for your body by being outside (helping to reduce stress on your physical body) to logging off the constant stimulation overload of daily life, fishing gives you a chance to de-stress. By slowing down and focusing on one thing (fishing), you give your brain much-needed downtime. You even have a better chance at solving problems, because with less stimulation, your brain can make connections previously overlooked.
• Social connection. Whether you enjoy fishing by yourself or fishing with a group, social connection is constant. Think about it – even when you are fishing by yourself, at some point you will share your fish tales with friends and that gives you the opportunity to make new friends or deepen existing relationships!
• Supports Fisheries and Wildlife Management. Whenever you buy a fishing license, you support local management. The money generated from license sales helps keep public waters stocked, keeps fishing education programs up-and-running, and even helps fund research projects that monitor the health of both the wildlife and habitats.
• Health boost: A couple of points to make here. Firstly, you are going to be more active fishing than sitting playing video games or watching movies on the couch. Secondly, if you are catching to consume, fresh fish is one of the healthiest protein sources available. Lastly, you are more likely to cut the extra, unnecessary snacking calories if you are out fishing (vs. the mindless eating that can happen in front of the TV).

What You Need

So, with all that being said, now you MUST be chomping at the bit to get started! Just like other hobbies, fishing can range from minimalist to extravagant. I highly recommend getting started with the basics and then building on that foundation as you learn what kind of fishing you like.

• The rod and reel. You know, back in the day (when kids were walking uphill both ways to school… in the snow), you could simply tie some fishing line to a long pole and go to town (isn’t there a country song somewhere about that?). Now, there are many inexpensive and quality rod and reel combos that will get the job done with minimal fuss.
• Extra line and hooks. Our combo kits come with line, but it is definitely best to be prepared with more! Grab a spool of line and an extra packet of hooks for when you are using live bait.
• Bait / lures. We will talk more about this in a minute, but buy a few different types of baits and lures! Different fish like different things, and various weather conditions also affect how fish are attracted to various colors and shapes.
• Leatherman Multi-Tool. This is a no-brainer. Grab one of these and keep in your tacklebox at all times! From pliers to scissors, you will get so much use out of these! Plus, it is one of the best tools you can keep stashed in your pack for hiking and camping trips.

How to Get Started

Now that you know why you need to get out there and have all the tools you need, it’s time to make the plan of action!

First and foremost, buy a fishing license! You can purchase one at your local Walmart. Nowadays, you can even buy your license online, or through your state’s wildlife and fishing management app!

Next, decide where you want to fish. Public lands and management areas are a great place to start, as they are monitored for overall water and fish habitat health. Every single state has funding for conservation efforts around stocking the ponds, lakes and bodies of water. The easiest place to find up-to-date information is online at your state’s Wildlife Commission website.

As far as time of day and when to head out, as a VERY general rule of thumb, early evening to dusk is consistently a great time to cast. Know that different climates and seasons affect fish behavior, just like they have an effect on our behavior! Fish like warmer water and it makes them a bit more active and likely to bite (but of course not too warm – heads up down South!). They also like to avoid bright, direct sunlight, so finding areas with some cover and structure would work well to your advantage! Structures you can’t see (underwater) are the perfect fish hangout.

Once you head out, get ready to experiment! Different fish like different baits and lures, based on the weather and time of day or year! If it is extremely hot, try deeper depths. You can try shinier lures that flash in low light or bobbers with live bait. This is all a part of the joys of fishing! The trial and error aspects allow you to develop patience, and also relax with a slower pace (remember those health benefits?!).

We hope you enjoy this new pastime, and as always, SHARE your pictures with us! You can tag us by using #ScoutShopBSA for your chance to be featured on our social channels.

We can’t wait to hear the chorus of “FISH ON!” from all of you!