Freshwater Fishing InfoÂ and Tips
Lakes, ponds, rivers, streams â€“ 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 ourÂ Where to Fish page.
Which is theÂ basic freshwater fishing gear that I need?
Freshwater fishing basics include a rod, reel, line, hook, and bait or lure that are matched to the type of fish youâ€™re after. Generally, spin-casting equipment is easier for beginners than bait-casting equipment. Youâ€™ll also want a tackle box with various hooks, baits, lures and other tackle. For more information, check out ourÂ Gear page.
The right line to use depends on what kind of fish youâ€™re after and where youâ€™re fishing. Fishing line is referred to by â€œpound-testâ€ â€“ the strength of the line. A number of factors go into determining the right line and pound-test to use. Check out ourÂ Other TackleÂ page to learn more.
The best way to learn is to just do it. You can also practice away from the water â€“ in a large, open area, away from people or pets. Start by checking out the basics on ourÂ Fishing TechniquesÂ page.
Whatâ€™s the difference between a bobber and a float?
Theyâ€™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 ourÂ Other TackleÂ 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 ourÂ RigsÂ page to learn more.
Whatâ€™s the difference between natural and lures?
Natural fishing bait includes attractants like minnows, cut bait, leeches, mealworms and insects â€“ real, natural stuff that fish like to eat. If your bait isn't natural, itâ€™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 ourÂ Bait & Lures sectionÂ or ourÂ Species ExplorerÂ for more on baits and lures for specific fish.