The sounds of nature have an amazing effect on mind and body, which is very relaxing. Disappointing is the sound of the fish-less fisherman. Follow this advice if you do not want to be that guy, the one where the great fish always got away.
When you fish in a river or lake, casting near shore leads to optimal results. These areas are ripe with insects, which are the primary food sources for fish. For best results, cast your line close to the outlying edges of the shorearea. Be wary of weeds, though!
Live bait is best for catching fish. Fish generally eat any insects that are located near their body of water. If it is an insect that you can catch near the body of water where you are fishing, it is likely that the fish will be attracted to it. Expensive artificial lures may look nice, but they do little to attract fish.
You should vary your bait colors if using artificial bait. If you have not had even a nibble on your line and have spent a considerable amount of time on the water already, this tip can prove extremely valuable. By changing to a brighter color or a shade that you do not normally use, you increase your chances of catching the eye of that big catch, or at least a catch.
Stay quiet while fishing. Fish are frightened by loud noises and will leave the area if you are too loud. Sitting quietly and even keeping your voice at a whisper will help you to keep fish closer and more likely to grab your line!
If you are going fishing for the first time, it is important that you learn a bit about fishing before heading out. Learning the correct casting procedures, how to spot good fishing spots, and choosing the best lure for the water will help ensure success. There are countless fishing books on the market that teach the finer points of angling. Check the library. With the right information, you can catch some really big fish.
If you are planning to follow a catch and release plan, bring a camera along so you can remember your catches before releasing them back to the wild. This will help you to keep the fish alive, while still preserving your fishing memories.
Every catch does not mean it should be kept. It is common courtesy to release smaller catches, as well as excessive catches. Following these rules leaves plenty of fish to keep up the population well into the future.
Be mindful not to let anything catch on fire if fishing from the bank. Because you are surrounded by foliage and not just water, you have to be especially careful about where you discard your cigarettes. Although the bank might be wet, the surrounding foliage easily catches fire.

It’s imperative that you have the correct equipment whenever you fish. The decision between live bait and lures really depends on what type of fish you are going for. You are going to need to learn a bit about the right bait for the right fish.
Know what odors are on your hands. If your hands have a strong smell, it might get on to the bait, and this will be detected by fish. All the fish in the deep blue sea will scatter if they notice an unpleasant or unfamiliar smell.
A clinch knot is great to use for your line or hook to your line. Through the hook’s end just insert your line’s tip, you then want to do five turns before you pass the end through your first coil and eye. Complete the not by pulling the lead end through the initial loop and then tightening as much as possible.
Wet the line prior to tying a knot. It will minimize the friction incurred as you tie, and it will toughen up the knot itself. Try a clinch or double fisherman’s knot.
Smallmouth bass and walleye are often picky about live bait. Increase your chances of catching a lot of fish by bringing a few dozen leeches as backup bait. Leeches will stay alive overnight if you keep them in a plastic or Styrofoam container with a little water.
After you catch your fish, be sure to use them. Don’t waste them. While it can make you feel proud to show off a huge collection of fish, over fishing can destroy the ecosystem and make it harder to find fish on your next trip. If you think that you have caught more than your fair share, consider throwing some back so that others may have the same fortunes as you.
Take precaution when you fish on or near the bank because you don’t want to light anything on fire. Many people smoke while they are fishing, and you must ensure that the embers or your lighter don’t start a fire. While the bank might be wet, there is dry foliage all around that can easily catch on fire.
If you’ve taken the time to read this article, you will be well rewarded for it. Just imagine how your family will react when you show them the fish you caught for their supper. The things you’ve learned will improve your skills and make you a more confident fisherman, so get out there and catch a few fish!