Learning how to freshwater fish is a fun sport that requires skill and timing. These FAQs and tips provide the information you need to know when freshwater fishing.
Regardless of the type of fish or water, there are some fishing tips that everyone should follow when freshwater fishing:
Want to learn more about freshwater fishing? Download our FREE e-book "Freshwater Fishing Quick Guide" in partnership with Tailored Tackle.
To learn how to freshwater fish visit the Freshwater Fishing section and learn more about the types of freshwater fishing, when to freshwater fish, the types of freshwater bait and lures you can go, commom freshwater fish species you can catch and more information.
Lakes, ponds, rivers, streams – they're all great places to find fish. Bays and estuaries contain a mixture of fresh water and salt water, so they'll have a mix of freshwater and saltwater fish. To learn more, check out our Where to Fish page.
Freshwater fishing basics include a rod, reel, line, hook, and bait or lure that are matched to the type of fish you’re after. Generally, spin-casting equipment is easier for beginners than bait-casting equipment. You’ll also want a tackle box with various hooks, baits, lures and other tackle. For more information, check out our Gear page.
The right line to use depends on what kind of fish you’re after and where you’re fishing. Fishing line is referred to by “pound-test” – the strength of the line. A number of factors go into determining the right line and pound-test to use. Check out our Other Tackle page to learn more.
The best way to learn is to just do it. You can also practice away from the water – in a large, open area, away from people or pets. Start by checking out the basics on our Fishing Techniques page.
They’re basically the same thing. A bobber is a round floating device used to keep your bait at the depth you want and to alert you when a fish is biting. Floats are shaped differently and more sensitive than round bobbers. For more, check out our Other Tackle page.
A fishing rig is the way you tie together your bait or lure, hook and other tackle to your fishing line in order to attract fish. Rigs are used for specific types of fishing. Check out our Rigs page to learn more.
Natural fishing bait includes attractants like minnows, cut bait, leeches, mealworms and insects – real, natural stuff that fish like to eat. If your bait isn't natural, it’s a lure, which is a manufactured replica of natural bait or material designed to look and move like things that fish like to eat. For more information, check out our Bait & Lures section or our Species Explorer for more on baits and lures for specific fish.
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