Fishing is one of the most popular forms of recreation in the world. You can find people of all ages and gender, from all walks of life, enjoying the sport from shore and from boats. The equipment used in fishing, or tackle as it is called by fishermen, is relatively uncomplicated. All you really need to start fishing is a rod, a reel, fishing line, hooks and lures. Because tackle is inexpensive and finding a place to fish is easy, almost anyone can fish. The sport provides a source of fresh food, and anglers also enjoy the time spent outdoors either alone or with friends.



Sportfishing may be done in fresh water or salt water. Freshwater fishing takes place in lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. Fish in these waters include many species like bass, trout, etc.. On the other hand, saltwater fishing occurs in tidal rivers, oceans, and estuaries. Game fish found in these waters tend to be larger than average freshwater fish. They include tarpon, marlin, snappers, and tuna.

You've probably heard about spin fishing, bait fishing, and fly fishing. These are the three most preferred methods of fishing in both salt and fresh water. But what exactly are the differences between these three?

Bait fishing means using live or dead bait to catch fish. When a fisherman goes bait fishing, the bait is placed on a hook and then cast into the water, where the bait sinks. The fisherman may then let the bait sink to the bottom of the water, jig the bait up and down to entice fishes by the movement, or reel the bait in to entice fish swimming near the surface of the water.

Plastic or metal lures are used to attract fish in spin fishing. As the fisherman reels in the line, the lures spin. The speed by which the line is reeled in, as well as the depth of the lure in the water, must be paid close attention to by the angler. These techniques are necessary to imitate the movements of common game fish prey. When a fish bites the moving lure, it usually hooks itself, and then all the fisherman needs to do is to reel it in. When the fish is close enough, a net or gaff is used to land it. Lighter fishing rods are used for smaller fish, while heavier fishing rods are used for larger ones.

The most difficult method is generally considered to be fly fishing. A typical fly fishing rod weighs less than the rods used for spin fishing and bait fishing, and longer, too. Fly fishing uses feathered lures particularly designed to look like the appearance of insects or small fish. When casting, the fisherman whisks the rod forward then back with only the forearm. A smooth and sharp snap of the wrist sends the line into a specific spot in the water. Depending on the type of fly, it can then float or sink in the water. The part about fly fishing that makes it so difficult is the smooth, precise movement necessary to introduce the fly into the water as naturally as possible.

The best seasons for fishing are considered to be spring and autumn, since these are when the fish are most active. Fish can still be caught during summer and winter, although the fish are usually a bit more sluggish and less inclined to chase lures or bait. Water temperatures also play a critical role in deciding the best time to fish, since different types of fish like different temperatures. If their natural prey is around, you can also expect game fish to be more active.