How to fish for beginners

Fishing for the absolute beginner

If you are trying to learn how to fish, it can be a bit daunting if you are attempting to do so without any help. And while the basics are easy to master with practice, knowing the basics is the key. Here are the basics on how to fish for beginners. Whether you are trying to learn to fish in freshwater or if you wish to fish in saltwater, the fundamentals are the same. Here is a guide on how to fish for beginners to get you started in one of Florida’s top professions and hobbies.

Step One: Choose a reel

When it comes to recreational reels, there are three basic types. The first is the push button casting reel. This is sometimes referred to as the spin casting reel.  Secondly, you have the spinning reel. The last is the baitcasting reel. For the beginning, the spincasting reel is the least expensive and the easiest to use. However, you should note that the reel has a lower casting distance and your aim accuracy is a bit lower than the other two reels. Our recommendation is to use the Spinning Reel. It is a bit harder to master, but it is the standard for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater.

Step Two: Purchase the proper type of bait

There are a ton of baits and lures on the market and understanding the difference between the function of the baits is essential to catching a fish. The baits are categorized as either surface, super shallow, shallow, medium, and deep fishing baits. The depth of the bait and the type of the bait is dependent upon the type of fish that you are attempting to catch. For example, if you are fishing for a catfish (which is a bottom feeder) you would want to have a deep resting bait.

Use location pages as well as ask your bait provider to help you determine the right bait for your fishing. Keep in mind, though, that live bait tends to work better.

Step Three: Learn to attach your hook

While having your bait and hooks are important, they are superfluous if you cannot attach them to the line. There are several videos which can instruct you on how to tie your fishing hook properly. For the best results practice the knots without the hook to begin with (your fingers will thank you) and then add the bait to the line later. Once you have mastered the art of knot tying and have added the bait to the line, consider learning about weights and bobber attachments.

Step Four: Cast the line

Depending on the type of reel which you have purchased, the casting will be slightly different. The push button reel only requires that you press the button and then cast forward. The line will lock upon the cast. The spin caster reels are a bit more involved. You will need to learn to set the drag, to cast the line, and then to lock the reel. Again, there are several videos which can help. In Florida, there are also an abundance of casting school which offer one-on-one instruction on fishing techniques.

Step Five: Get Licensing

When you are ready to take your new skills to the water, you MUST have a fishing license. Florida requires that you have a fishing license for either fresh or saltwater. You can purchase both. There are a few exceptions on who needs to have a fishing license in Florida. The exceptions mainly apply to those who pay for a charter. To find out more about fish licensing, see our article on such or visit FWC’s site.

Step Six: Get a fishing boat

If you are fishing offshore, then you will need to have a fishing boat. Vessel Vendor offers a large selection of pre-owned vessels from the top brands, manufacturers, and dealerships. Our listers are avid boat owners who are interested in partnering with qualified buyers. Should you need help in finding the right boat for you please see our boat reviews, manufacturer reviews, or location pages.

Looking to sell a fishing boat? Vessel Vendor has an intuitive platform to help you get your listing seen quickly by the largest target audience. And since we are only oriented to boats and yachting content, those who see your ad are more apt to purchase your boat for sale.

Find out more

Should you have any questions about learning to fish, if you need assistance in finding a fishing boat for sale, or if you wish to know more about Vessel Vendor please fill out the appropriate form on our website and we will get back to you with an answer to your inquiry as quickly as possible. We look forward to hearing from you, as we know that you will love fishing in Florida as much as we do. Welcome to the Vessel Vendor family.