First of all, you will definitely agree that fishing is the most adventurous and versatile hobby. Fishing is our life, our addiction. It does not matter if you are a newbie or avid angler, it is fun for everyone.
So, you are ready to hit the great outdoors and you definitely do not want that something goes wrong. Unfortunately, there are many things that could ruin your fishing trip if you do not organize it properly and wisely. Today, you will learn how to avoid many problems and we will show you some essential fishing equipment that you should definitely pack.
Learn how to organize your basic fishing equipment list, because you probably overlook many things until you are really in need of them. The Tv and many fishing gear manufacturers tend to glorify their products.
We will talk about essential equipment that will fulfill all your fishing needs.
Things You should Take Into Consideration
First and foremost, we can put the basic equipment into two categories just to make it clear. The first category contains «basic-general» equimpent you will need irrespective of the fishing technique-method. The choices are surely endless here but we will mention only the essentials.
The second category encloses specific fishing equipment that depends on the fishing technique.For instance, you cannot use the same fishing rod for flyfishing and spinning. Furthermore, your fishing equipment depends on the target fish size.
For example, you can use a spinning rod for bass and crappie. It goes without saying that if you are fishing for bass it should be stronger and stiffer. A big bass can ruin your rod completely especially during the summer period when they strike abruptly.
Consequently, these are the things that you should take into consideration. Most fishermen ignore these facts and that is wrong. Your fishing equipment is your arsenal that will lead you to success.
Lastly, there are several differencies between boat and shore fishing equipment.
Basic Fishing Equipment List
Fishing Rod
Fishing without a fishing rod? Of course not! Your rod is probably the most important thing. It is the tool that helps you to perform long distance casts and it plays a decisive role. Since you are reading our article, you probably are an angler and you know that there are rods for various fishing techniques.
You will need a spinning rod if you want to use all lure types and fish for predatory fish. These rods come in different sizes from 7ft. up to 10ft. with slow, moderate or fast action.
As far as baitcasting rods are concerned, you will need more effort to cast the bait. They are longer and you can manage long casts. The length scale starts from 8ft. up to 13 ft.
Moreover, if you are a float fishing fan, you will need a match fishing rod. This is the «delicate» part of fishing. These rods are extremely thin and lightweight and they are long too (8ft.-12ft).
Match fishing rods are usually multiple pieces rod.
If you have a boat, you should choose a trolling rod.
Lastly, if you are interested in fly fishing, you will need a fly fishing rod. The length does not play an important role here. The weight and action will make the difference.
Fishing Reel
A fishing rod without a good reel is useless, because it is the only thing that will tire out your fish. You will be not able to land the fish, if the drag system does not tire out the fish. Accordingly, there are spinning, multiplier, fly fishing and baitcasting reels.
You can use a spinning reel for almost all fishing techniques. This is the most common type of reels. The main characteristic is that they have front or back (or both) brakes.
True to their name, baitcasting reels are appropriate for the baitcasting technique and they are heavier than spinning reels.
Multiplier reels are perfect for trolling and you cannot perform casts. Gnereally speaking, you can use it only for boat fishing techniques.
Choosing a fly reel can be really tricky because they are completely different than common reels. The main key point here is the arbor which is the centre spidle.
Fishing Line
Three are the types of fishing line, monofilament, fluorocarbon, fly and braided line.
We will begin with the first type which the most common line type. Monofilament or mono line comes in various sizes (0.14mm-1.40mm) and in different colors. The color depends on the water structure and bed you are going to fish in.
However, we recommend transparent mono line.
On the other hand, fluorocarbon or fluoro line looks like mono line but fluoro line is almost invisible in the water. Consequently, it gives you more opportunities to catch successfully a fish. You can use it as main line, but the majority of anglers use it as a leader because it is more expensive than mono line.
If you are pursuing fish by spinning, you can load your reel with braided line. It is not elastic so you can feel each bite and act quickly. The only disadvantage here is that it has high memory.
FLy line is used by fly fisherman and the feature that distinguish common line from fly line is the taper. There are three taper types, double taper, weight forward taper and shoot ahead taper.
We recommend the WF(weight forward) taper because you donot have to aerialise the line. This is especially useful for beginner fly fishing anglers.
Fishing Lures and Baits
The lure type list is endless as there is a wide variety of lures on the market. Fishing lures are a must especially if you are using the spinning technique. Crankbaits, jerbaits, topwater lures, spoons, plastic baits, jigs,spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, swimbaits, flies and much more.
As far as baits are concerned, the selection depends on you. You can use almost everything but it should approach the natural feeding habits of the target fish. You have probably heard the adage «Match the hatch» and that is the rule which you should follow.
Small fish like shads or minnows are perfect but you can use crayfish, little shrimps or leeches. Alive or dead, fish will definitely not overlook them. The natural appearance and smell attracts many fish.
Additionally, worms and maggots can be used for lake fishing especially for carp. You can take a look at this link in order to learn how to rig live bait http://m.wikihow.com/Rig-Live-Bait . The rig must be done right if you want to have a natural bait action.
Hooks
Hooks should definitely be in the essential fishing equipment list especially if you are fishing with live baits. There is an ample variety of hooks and they come in 18-6/0 size. Barbed or barbless, curved or straight.
Barbless are considered to be bad hooks, but if you are a «catch and release» fan, be sure that they will not hurt the fish.
It would be a good idea to have some backup hooks.
Sinkers
Keep in mind that sinkers are really important even if you are fishing with a float. The weight depends on the fishing method of course and it will help you with the casts. There are some bobbers on the market which have an appropriate weight label.
If you want to perform accurate casts, sinkers zre innevitable.
Swivel
You might think that swivels are not essential. However, it is the only thing that connects your leader and main line. Specifically, if you try to tie mono line on braided line without a swivel, you will definitely lose the fish.
Fishing Net
It goes without saying that a fishing net is really bulky. However, it is the only way to land successfully a fish. There is nothing worse to lose a fish. Fortunately, there are two pieces nets on the market which are very convenient an portable.
Fishing Pliers
In addition, your basic fishing equipment list should include a pair of stainless steel fishing pliers. All we fishermen ignore this tool but sometimes when the fish swallows completely the hook, we are really in need of a pair of pliers.
Some pliers have a cutter and a split ring tool in order to change your fishing lure trebles.
Other essential fishing equipment
We mentioned only the basics above. These are some other tools you may need: portable fridge for food supplies and fish, special bait fridge, nautical and topographic maps, compass, warm clothes etc.
Keep your life Organized and Enjoy your Fishing Trip
Finally, before you head out to your favorite fishing spot, you should choose your fishing gear wisely. A well organized trip will make your fishing trip more enjoyable. There are some things that should definitely not be forgotten!
However, it is not all about the fishing gear. The goal is to have some good time and spend unforgettable moments with your friends. It is scientifically proven that fishing is the greatest way to discover and explore nature.
What do you think? If you like our article or want to add something, please do not hesitate to drop a comment in the comment box.