There are many articles on fishing. Fishing tips and advice of all kinds abound on the internet. What about on catching? I mean, that's what we all want to do right? We want to catch more fish, not necessarily just fish for them. It's like a wise man once said, "there's a fine line between fishing and catching". In this article I'm going to discuss some things that will help you catch more trout, not just fish for them. These tips aren't just reserved for trout. They're actually reserved for any fish that swims within the current of a river. I've personally used these techniques to catch both Smallmouth Bass and Walleye, as well as Trout and various other none-game species.



Don't disturb Your Fishing Area - I've seen many anglers wade directly through the area they intend to fish, turn around, and fish the area they just waded through! This is a mistake. If you spook an area by wading through it, your chances of catching a quality fish are slim and none. Fish the area, and then wade through it if you must. And if you need a better angle, go upstream, wade across, and then walk back down to your fishing area.

Live Bait Must Be Lively - For example, worms. Worms must be lively to work effectively. A half dead worm is of little use to the angler. Employing a bait bag is a wonderful idea. Then when the worms are looking a bit "under the weather" simply dip the entire bait bag into the cold water to liven the worms' right back up.

Use The Proper Test Fishing Line - Remember fish have great eyesight underwater, and if you're using heavy line, the fish are more apt to see it. I've been walking along streams on many occasions and seen old fishing line that had to be 10 or 12 pound test! This is complete overkill for river and stream fishing (unless big browns, steelhead, or salmon are involved). I suggest no more than 6 pound test for most all river and stream fishing.

Use Gang Hooks - Gang Hooks are the best way to present live bait (especially worms). A set of gang hooks is simply 2 small hooks tied in tandem. Gang hooks enable the angler to present their bait in a completely natural manner, while the hooks are all but invisible. This is obviously to the angler's advantage. Not to mention the fact that with 2 hooks, you're effectively doubling your chances of a hook set.

Pay Attention To Your Hands - Fish (especially trout) have a very good sense of smell. The scents on your hands will transfer to your bait. For example, if you were filling up your car with gas and spilled a little on your hands, that smell will get on your bait and result in fewer bites. I always rub my hands in dirt or a handful of grass, just to make sure. Doing this will help neutralize any strange odors that might be on your hands and that may in turn end up on your bait.

These simple tips/techniques will help you catch more trout (as well as other fish), not just fish for them. Remember, although the act of fishing is relaxing and great, most times we really want to catch fish too. Not just fish for them.