As spring hits its prime, more and more fishing rods are sinking to the bottom of lakes. For those who enjoy fishing know that it is a relaxing yet exciting time all in one, though not both at the same time. Knowing what fish you want to catch, the topography of the lake, and when spawn season is are crucial to catching.
But before you do any research on the fish and lakes, you need to get the equipment to even be able to fish! Here is a quick list of essential items for any beginner angler with and price estimations to accompany.
1- First and foremost, the fishing rod and reel. $20-30
Most of the time you can buy what is called a combo, which contains both the rod and real. More top of the line gear requires you to buy the items separately and attach them. The two types of combos come down to the bait caster and the spinning reel.
Spinning reel Bait caster
2- Fishing line
Most combo rods come with line that is ready to use in the reel. If you would like to buy your own, there are three types to keep in mind.
1) Monofilament- less dense, more sensitive, more visible in clear waters, inexpensive
2)Fluorocarbon- more dense, most sensitive, least visible, more expensive
3) Braid- most dense, more sensitive, most visible, most expensive
3- Tackle $5-$....
What you tackle selection consists of depends on what you're trying to catch or do. To start off you can start with just a simple j-hook with earthworms attached. As you begin to know the lakes you fish in better, as well as what exactly you want you catch then you can purchase gear more accustomed to a specific fish. Soft baits are a good starter for any beginner angler.
4- Tackle Box $5-$20
You can't have tackle without something to carry it in. A tackle box doesn't have to be anything luxurious or grand as long is it fulfills its purpose. A small organized box or container can suffice.
5- Hand tools $7-$20
Having a multitool will be one of your best friends during fishing. Being able to cut, ply out hooks, and much more will come in handy out on the water. It saves you time trying to figure out how to cut a line you got stuck or even better yet, saves your fingers by having pliers to get the hook out safely.
6- Fishing License (Nebraska)
1 Day- Residents $10, Non-Resident $13
Annual- Residents $52, Non-Resident $76
Total cost for a 1 day fishing trip for a Nebraska resident would be approximately $47-$80.
Total cost for a 1 day fishing trip for a non-resident would be approximately $50-$83.