10 Common Fishing Mistakes for Beginners
Practice makes improvement and mastery takes time. Check out the common mistakes fishing beginners tend to make and the ways you can deal with them.
No one is born inherently perfect at something, and fishing is no exception. Making mistakes, especially if you are a beginner, is okay, but that does not mean you should no longer improve them. Below are the common fishing mistakes that beginners tend to make and tips on dealing with them.
1. Unpreparedness
On the top of our list is unpreparedness which is understandable because you are still testing the waters and do not know the ins and outs of the fishing world just yet.
A fun and productive fishing trip is good planning and preparation. Before the fishing trip, do your research on the fishing spot you plan to go to. Consider the following: what season is the best time to go there? How crowded will it get? You should list the necessary equipment you will bring before loading anything into your vehicle. In addition, always wear the appropriate fishing apparel that matches the weather.
2. Not Checking the Weather
Kind of related to the first point is the tendency of new anglers to not check the weather before going on a fishing trip. The weather plays a huge role in determining fishing productivity and general safety. Of course, you would want to avoid heavily forested areas with mossy waterways when raining.
Before heading out to your fishing spot of choice, check the weather forecast the night before and research the location, including the best time to go there. You may also hire a local guide because they know more about the place and will help you better.
3. Getting Distracted and Wasting Time
The fishing community is a fun place to be as it gives plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people. It is so easy to get lost in conversations and get yourself distracted from fishing. Getting so engrossed when talking to a friend on fishing trips can take your focus away from your main goal of the day, which is to catch as much fish as you can.
The key is to set realistic goals for the day and stick to them. When you are out on a boat or waiting by a river, pay attention to your fishing equipment and ensure that you are in a safe position, especially on bigger waterways.
4. Using the Wrong Rod or Reel
Getting the wrong rod and reel affects fishing productivity. You cannot just pick a random rod or reel because the right one depends on the kind of fish you plan to catch the most and the different water bodies in the fishing spots you want to go to.
To avoid wasting money on the wrong fishing equipment, make sure that you have done your research before shopping. Remember: the best rod and reel depend on your personal fishing preferences. The same thing goes for every piece of equipment or apparel you will need.
5. Using the Wrong Hook
Sometimes, wanting to save money on hooks by reusing old ones could cost you more when your fishing productivity is low. It means wasting your time outdoors. A key component in fishing is the use of sharp and proper hooks. You may have the right lure, but fish could still easily getaway if you use the wrong hook. So, stop using that old or dull hook and invest in sharp, new ones appropriate for your target.
6. Using the Wrong Fishing Lures
Contrary to popular belief, fish notice when something is out of place, including a weird-looking bait floating in the water. When choosing fishing lures, keep in mind the criteria that match the fish's natural habitat.
For example, if you plan to catch panfish, ensure that you got the right live bait. Or, when you want to go on a fishing trip during the colder months, note that there are appropriate baits meant for winter fishing.
7. Using Worn Out Fishing Lines
Picture this: you already got a sharp hook, the right lures, and the proper rod and reel combination. However, you still missed your catch when you were already reeling it in. You might have overlooked your fishing lines.
No matter how high-end your fishing equipment is, a worn-out fishing line could still result in a disappointing fishing trip. You need to change your fishing line regularly and do proper maintenance work. It will lead to better catch, but it will also prolong your gear's service life. Remember: each part of your fishing gear plays a vital role in fishing. So, do not even think about scrimping on fishing lines by using old, frayed ones.
8. Too Much Slack on the Fishing Lines
When fishing, you want to avoid your fishing lines getting too slack. When your fishing line is loose, it gives fish a chance to get away easily. It also lessens your control and hold over the line and may even cause you to drop your fishing gear in the water. So, you need to leave just enough slack according to your fishing location.
9. Weak or Improper Fishing Knots
Yes, the fishing knot matters. It is the one that connects the lure and line. An expensive gear will not work if the knot is poorly made. However, many anglers tend to neglect this and make the same basic knot even if it is not the right type for their fishing style and preferences.
No knot is considered the best for all fishing styles because each type functions differently under various situations. What works for one condition may not work the same way for another. This is why anglers need to develop their knot-tying skills and learn different techniques.
10. Letting the Adrenaline Take Over You
There is nothing like the surge of energy when you spot a prized fish that your first instinct is to cast your line immediately, but you should not let the adrenaline make you lose your focus. Timing is everything, and it is easy to forget that in the rush of excitement. Try to relax, take a deep breath, and clear your mind before casting your line.
