Fishing Basics

Every novices in the field of angling should gain knowledge about the different facets of fishing. This article delves into and showcases all the fundamental elements of fishing that you must comprehend prior to considering grabbing your fishing rod and heading towards the river.

How to Tie Fishing Line

Fishing Basics

To tie the fishing line, you need to know the different types of knots. You will need a different knot depending on the type of line you are going to be using but they are all fairly easy to learn and tie. There are a few terms you need to know: 

  • Tag – this is the end of your fishing line and is where the knot needs to be tied
  • Line – this is the rest of the fishing line which goes up towards the fishing reel
  • Turn – a turn or wrap is what happens when you take the tag around the line

Here is how you tie the line: 

  • Pass the tag through the hook eye
  • Wrap the tag around the line five times
  • Push the tag end through the loop which is next to the hook eye
  • Pass the tag end through the loop you have created with the wrapping 
  • Hold both the line end and the tag end in one hand, and the hook in the other, and pull
  • Pulling like this will tighten the line 
  • Cut the tag end leaving around an eighth of an inch

How to Put Fishing Line on a Reel

Fishing Basics

When it comes to putting a fishing line on a reel there are a few things to take into consideration and the most common mistake which people make is getting twists into the line by accident so if you take it slowly and carefully you should be able to avoid this issue. 

Related read: Best Spinning Reels 2021 – Top Reviews

The other thing you need to avoid is over spooling as this can lead to the line falling from the spool and tangling in a big mess, so you need to leave enough at the top to avoid this problem, around an eighth of an inch is enough. 

When you first put the fishing line onto your reel you might need someone to help you. You need to attach your reel to the rod and then tie the end of your line using your knot of choice. Once you are ready you can pass the line through the guides and start to spool it. 

How to Spool a Fishing Reel

Fishing Basics

Once the line is on and you are ready to spool, you simply need to start cranking the reel slowly to make sure there are no twists or problems in the line, and just keep going until you have spooled the whole reel. 

Make sure you don’t over-spool by leaving at least half an inch at the top otherwise you are in danger of your line slipping off the spool and tangling up, which is a common problem for beginners, who over-spool by accident.

Also read: Guide to the Best Baitcaster Reels in 2021

How to Tie a Fishing Hook

Fishing Basics

Once your line is spooled you need to tie your fishing hook which requires knowing how to tie particular fishing knots. This simply takes time and practice, and you will find the knot that you prefer to use. 

The reason fishing knots don’t work is normally because they come undone, or they break so it’s important to check they are tied tightly enough but not too tight so that the tension in the line will cause it to break.

How to Tie Two Fishing Lines Together

Other types of knots you need to learn for fishing are the ones required to tie two fishing lines together and there are many you can choose from. Strong knots include the Surgeon’s Knot and the double uni knot although this one is more complicated. 

If you can master tying a few of these knots you will be easily able to tie two lines even if they are different lengths or diameters, no matter what situation you find yourself in. 

How to Cast a Fishing Rod

If you are new to fishing you need to know the best way to cast your fishing rod for the best success and there are a number of options, you can go for. You need to cast your rod in a way that will locate the target you are aiming for. 

It will take several practices to get your casting swing right and you can try an overhead cast, a drop cast, and a sidearm cast before you choose your favorite method. 

Overhead casting is the most common technique used by beginners and is the easiest one to do. Even experienced anglers will use this cast when they need to cast over a larger distance. All you need to do is swing your rod over your head and forward towards your target. 

What Size Fishing Hook to Use

Fishing Basics

Fishing hooks come in a wide range of sizes, depending on what kind of fish you want to catch but despite all the range of options, you are likely to be able to meet all your basic fishing needs with just a few simple sizes and styles of hook. 

The size of the hook you need really depends on how big the mouth is of the fish you want to catch, as well as the type of bait you want to use. For example, if you are using earthworms you will need a bigger hook. It’s worth knowing that you can use a small hook for both big and small fish, but you can only catch a big fish with a big hook.

You may also like: Best Magnet for Magnet Fishing – 2021 Reviews

Conclusion

Once you have covered all of these fishing basics you will be ready for your very first fishing trip, and with patience and practice, tying the knots and spooling your fishing line without any twists, will become second nature to you. While it might seem that there is a lot to learn, which can feel daunting, fishing basics are easy to grasp, and you will soon be enjoying your new leisure activity. 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *