Fishing for the first time? What gear will you need to get that fish on a hook? How do you rig the pole and line? Your pole might have come complete with line and reel but you will still need to add a hook, a sinker, a float or bobber, line, and bait.
The Pole and Reel
Choose a pole that is a size you can handle and fits the type of fish you plan to fish for. A small to medium size pole (about 6 feet) with a simple crank reel is best for beginner or occasional fishermen. The light poles made of fiberglass or graphite for light action are best. Light action means the amount the pole will flex.
Fishing Hooks
Buy the size and weight hook for the type and size fish you plan to fish for. For general “anything-you-can-catch” style, use a small hook – a size 8. The size of hook needed for white perch will be much smaller than what is needed to catch a large fish . The type of bait also affects the size of hook you should choose. To attach the hook to your line you slip the line end through the eye of the hook and tie a tight knot. A fisherman’s knot is made by threading the line through the hook eye, twisting the line on itself above the hook then threading the line back through one of the loops and pulling it tight. Nail clippers or small scissors are handy for snipping the line. Above the hook you will add a sinker.
The Sinker
The sinker is a small lump of metal that weighs the line and hook down enough so that the line will spool out easily and then sink as low in the water as you hope the fish are. For catfish and bottom feeding fish, use a weight that will hold your hook down near the bottom of the pond or lake. For brim and small fish, a light weight will allow your bait to stay near the top of the water where fish come up to eat insects on the water's surface. Attach the sinker by sliding the weight’s groove unto the line and pinching it tightly to the line.
Fishing Line
The line comes on spools by test weight. The test weight number lets you know how heavy a fish the line can hold without breaking. For a starter pole try 4 pound line.To rig the line you will attach the reel to the pole, crank the line tightly unto the reel and thread the end through the loops on the side of the pole to the tip. A short length will be needed to attach the hooks, sinker, and the bobber or float.
The Bobber or Float
The bobber or float is a light plastic or wooden piece that you attach to the line above the hook and sinker so that the baited hook will float in the water and not drag on the bottom of the pond. The bobbers are usually red and white or orange and are easy to see on the water. The bobber also lets you know you have a fish on your hook. When the bobber goes under you know you have a bite!
Fishing Bait
The best baits are live baits such as worms, shiners (minnows), flies, or crickets. Dig earthworms or buy a small plastic container at the bait store. Be sure to keep these cool until you are ready to fish. Minnows have to be kept in a bucket of water. Lures and fake worms and other baits can be kept in your tackle box along with needlenose pliers, a stringer, and extra items.
Fishing is a fun sport that can become a lifetime passion. Learn to rig your pole with line, hook, sinker, bobbers, and bait. The fish will be waiting for you!
