The Do’s and Don’ts of Fishing

Posted by Mike Bovenzi | August 13, 2010

Fishing Do's and Don'ts As summer winds down, we only have a few more months of fishing left (unless you’re one of those weirdos who ice fishes). With time not on our side, you need to bring your ‘A’ game from here on out, or end up catching more seaweed than bass.

I started fishing at a young age. I have to credit my Uncle for taking me, because I would have much rather stayed home, playing video games with my friends than going into the great outdoors with some old person. But, he was much bigger than I was, so in the end my uncle won the battle and got me out on the water. Best decision somebody ever made for me.

Fishing ended up being a major part of my life deep into my early 20′s, before some she devil came around and started occupying all my time. When she died(wishful thinking, she’s fine), I started getting back out there, and my love for angling came back stronger than ever.

Am I a pro? No, not even close. While I don’t have it all, I have most of it, so just sit back and take my advice. I’m probably smarter than you anyways.

1. Be prepared. Really prepared.

Fishing, to me, is more skill than sport. Like anything else, preparation is key. Remember, you are out in the outdoors, sometimes miles down a stream, in the middle of a lake/ocean. More often than not, if you don’t bring something with you, you will have to go without. Not having, or not having enough, of a certain item (sinkers, spare hooks,ect.) can quickly end the fishing trip.

2. Don’t just think about the fish, think about yourself.

Patience is as big a part of fishing as hammer fisting is to UFC. It could be a long morning/afternoon/night, so forget about the fishes wants, and worry about your own needs. Food/drink are crucial. If the fish aren’t biting, your patience will be tested, taking some time off to eat or drink something will not only fuel your body, but keep your mind from stressing about the fact that you haven’t caught anything except west nile from the mosquitos.

Also, I’ve seen more than a few guys take an unplanned dip into the water, so fresh clothes/footwear is a must.

3. Fishers have to outnumber non fishers.

We all have those friends who never fish, but want to tag along, which is fine. It’s always nice to have somebody to talk to, or someone to offer assistance in a time of need on the water. But, don’t go alone with them. These are the kinds of people who lose interest in fishing if you haven’t caught jaws within the first hour.

Sprinkle the non fishers amongst the masses of the diehards. This will keep them at bay; they won’t be able to dictate an entire crew of dedicated, patient fishermen if/when they get bored. They’ll just start wandering the area instead of nagging you to leave. Driving separate is always a solid idea as well.

4. Be a man.

There is nothing worse than fishing with a guy who is terrified to touch fish or live bait. It’s like listen, “Barnes and Noble is still open, go grab a latte and a Men’s Health magazine and sit Indian style in one of the aisles – fishing is clearly not for you.”

Remember, what you are doing is somewhat primitive, you are trying to hook a fish by it’s mouth, and reel it in. Bottom line, it ain’t always gonna be pretty. Occasionally you are going to have to make the decision of whether you are capable, or willing, to wresting a hook (or two, or three) deep out of a fish’s mouth, or simply cut the line and let him take the bait/lure.

Me personally? If it’s live bait, and the process of removing the hook could prove costly to the fish’s life, I’ll let him have it; I’ve got more bait. However, if it’s one of my favorite lures…I’m gonna try like hell to get that thing out and hope the fish is tough as nails. Hey, the economy…

5. Take it all in.

I’ve gone on more than a few fishing trips without even getting a bite, let alone reeling something in. I never let that disappoint me. There is nothing better than being on a beautiful body of water, taking in all of it’s scenic greatness. Fishing is very peaceful. I often go alone, it’s where I can do some of my best thinking. The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope. I didn’t say that, some guy named John Buchan did.