|
|
Post by elaine on Jul 1, 2015 1:09:35 GMT
My older son really wants to learn how to fish, so I have to learn how to fish to teach him.
I have had a neighbor give me some tips so far, but I am looking for as much info as I can get. I have purchased my VA fishing license online, and our first foray will be next week.
So, all you anglers out there, what are your best tips for me?
|
|
|
|
Post by Yubon Peatlejuice on Jul 1, 2015 1:23:07 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained.
You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn.
The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish.
Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself.
|
|
|
|
Post by Eddie-n-Harley on Jul 1, 2015 1:24:12 GMT
I hardly call myself an angler, but we had a small creek in the backyard when I was growing up. For some reason, the carp really liked canned corn as bait. So, if you are skeeved out by worms and want to start SUPER CHEAP, try a can of corn. LOL.
I would guess if you have a Gander Mountain or Bass Pro or something similar in the area, you might want to take a stop there, see if someone knowledgeable about fish in your area is working and wants to chat.
|
|
Dalai Mama
Drama Llama
La Pea Boheme
Posts: 6,985
Jun 26, 2014 0:31:31 GMT
|
Post by Dalai Mama on Jul 1, 2015 1:31:59 GMT
And I'm going to be the one to tell you to just go out and do it. We mostly fish lake and brook trout and find the best luck first thing in the morning and early evening.. Different people will suggest different bait based on fish, and time of day but it's mostly just luck. I have one son who catches fish with a bare hook - it's actually kind of freakish.
|
|
pudgygroundhog
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,643 
Location: The Grand Canyon
|
Post by pudgygroundhog on Jul 1, 2015 1:39:17 GMT
If you lived closer to my dad I would send you his way.  I would check some local resources to see if there is a class or workshop. There are the "technical" aspects of fishing like what lure and bait to use, tying hooks, casting, removing a fish from the hook, etc. but then other aspects that are more based on experience. Where to find the fish in a particular body of water, what kind of habitat they like, time of day, etc. That's where somebody with knowledge would come in handy. In my area the DEC (Department of Environment Conservation) hosts "Learn to Fish" days where they provide the gear and there are people to help. If you could find something like that, it would probably be useful. You could also call up local nature centers/organizations in your area to ask for some resources. Good luck! |
|
|
|
Post by cindyupnorth on Jul 1, 2015 1:43:01 GMT
In our state we have a program called "take a kid fishing" It is a GREAT program. The kids sign up and then they are assigned a fishing guide that takes them out for the day, and teaches them. Afterwards the whole group meets up and then they cook up the fish outside. google it and your state and see if they have anything like that.
Besides the actually fishing, you will need to learn how to filet and prepare the fish after you catch it.
|
|
|
|
Post by meridon on Jul 1, 2015 1:48:58 GMT
How old is he? Our middle schools and high schools have fishing teams and it is recognized by the state as an official sport. In fact, you can get bass fishing scholarships to the state universities. I kid you not. So there might be some local kids who would be willing to help out. I also second the idea of going to the outdoor gear stores in your area and ask around or maybe try the public library or the local parks and rec department for your city or what about your local state park? Or what about the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program?
|
|
|
|
Post by elaine on Jul 1, 2015 1:57:28 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. My neighbor is taking us on our first foray. Thanks for your tips - they were really helpful. I have forceps to help me remove hooks, and if I can't we will take the fish home and I will cook them. No one will die unnecessarily on my watch, if I can help it. My kids LOVE fish and will eat anything they catch. |
|
|
|
Post by anxiousmom on Jul 1, 2015 2:03:52 GMT
We mostly flats fish-that is fishing in shallow salt water. I go with my step-dad who has been flats fishing all his life in an area (Everglades-on the west side) that his dad fished as kid. Even when we fish a little deeper, it is still the same kind of fish that we are fishing for.
The type of fish you fish for dictates the kind of equipment you need. Different lures, different weight fishing line, even different kind of fishing rods. And honestly, that can change from area to area, fisherperson to fisherperson. A person fishing for redfish in one area may swear a lure works that another, from a different area, swears won't work.
I am going to second the idea to pony up for a guide for a couple of attempts-one that you will be the only clients for that time and explain that you want your son to learn from someone who knows what they are doing. Find one that will supply the gear so that you get a feel for what works for you, the area, and the type of fishing you want to do. It may cost a bit up front, but will save you a lot in the long run to keep you from buying stuff that you don't need.
|
|
|
|
Post by elaine on Jul 1, 2015 2:06:09 GMT
Both my boys have Autism, so I'm going to be with them at first. Fairfax Co has a "fish with your kids" program that involves both the parent and the kids for an evening fishing trip on Wednesdays, so we will try that in a couple of weeks.
I love the suggestion of trying corn!
We had a block party on Sunday, and when I asked about fishing, that is when one of my neighbors, who it turns out fishes a LOT locally, brought out two of his poles and reels and spent hours teaching all the boys - including mine - how to cast. It was great to see a mini-United nations practicing casting on our cul de sac!
|
|
|
|
Post by anxiousmom on Jul 1, 2015 2:09:22 GMT
I want to learn how to fly fish. I watch people doing it and seems like zen fishing to me.  I figure it doesn't matter if I catch anything, it is just being out on the water...that makes me very happy.  |
|
|
|
Post by crimsoncat05 on Jul 1, 2015 5:00:37 GMT
I'm sorry to say it, but I think I'd have to say find a person who knows how to fish already who would take you guys, if he really wants to learn HOW to fish, and not just toss the line in the water a few times. I learned how to fish as a kid growing up, from my Dad and Grandpa. I can't imagine having a good time at it if I didn't have someone who knew what they were doing to teach me.
You need to know things like:
-- how to tie the hook on the line properly
-- how to cast
-- how to NOT get the line in knots
--where to fish so you actually catch fish rather than just wasting your time
-- what kind of bait to use for whatever kind of fish you're trying to catch
-- when to fish (aka, fish are more active at some times of the day than others)
-- how to take the fish off the hook without injuring them
-- how to handle the fish safely (some fish have very sharp dorsal fins and gill plates, as well as sharp teeth... they can poke into your hand if you don't know how to hold them carefully)
-- when you've hurt the fish so badly that it's more humane to kill it than to throw it back
-- what kind of fish have a minimum size limit before you can keep them...
-- what kind of fish actually taste good, and are good for eating...
and if you actually do want to keep and eat any fish, then you also have to learn how to filet them.
In my opinion, as Yubon said, fishing isn't really something you can teach yourself.
|
|
|
|
Post by Restless Spirit on Jul 1, 2015 5:01:03 GMT
I'm not a fisherman, but I'm married to one, plus my Dad was and my Son-in-law is! My SIL grew up on a lake and currently owns a bass boat. DD and grandson (8) love to fish!
First -know your DNR ( department of natural resources ) laws. depending on what you were fishing for, there may be bag limits (# of fish you can catch of certain types of fish) plus size limits. it will vary with each fish.
Do you live near a pro tackle and gear shop? The guys that run stores that are dedicated to fishing have a wealth of knowledge and love to talk fishing. Tell them it's your first time out and I'm sure they'll be more than happy to help you make your first trip a successful one.
If you don't have any dedicated shops near you, then the next best thing is going to an "outdoor" store such as Bass Pro Shop or Cabelas. They both have large fishing sections and knowledgeable staff.
You won't need expensive gear at first. Just do your homework and get the necessities that you'll need to make your first fishing expedition safe and fun!
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 20, 2024 15:08:29 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2015 5:34:04 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. I think killing the fish is the main goal here. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 20, 2024 15:08:29 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2015 5:36:59 GMT
Our Department of Fish & Wildlife offers family fishing days that teach all ages how to fish. Maybe your state has something similar?
I agree that fishing is something you need to learn from someone with experience and in person.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 20, 2024 15:08:29 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2015 5:44:55 GMT
Honestly , find an older retired person who likes to fish and ask if they would like to help you teach your son to fish.
It really isn't that hard, get a couple if beginner poles sets , find where the nearest fishing hole is and drop your line in.
As for getting the hook out, firmly hold the body and using needle nose pliers gently back the hook out , the way it went in. Or you can snip the barb off ( cheating).
Get a picture book so you know what various fish look like.
Sunfish and bluegills are fun for a little one to catch, but they are very bony to eat. (Taste good tho). I was never a fan of perch, or bass
|
|
|
|
Post by JBeans on Jul 1, 2015 5:55:54 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. My neighbor is taking us on our first foray. Thanks for your tips - they were really helpful. I have forceps to help me remove hooks, and if I can't we will take the fish home and I will cook them. No one will die unnecessarily on my watch, if I can help it. My kids LOVE fish and will eat anything they catch. I was going to tell Yubon to unclench a little bit. My goodness, the way she goes on, you'd think fishing was the hardest thing on earth to do (it's not). You don't need a guide if you are fishing on shore, but having your neighbour help you out is just a nice bonus. And yeah, sometimes the hooks are a little tricky, but with forceps, pliers and a fish glove (it helps you grip the fish better) you'll be fine. Fishing is fun. I'm doing that for the next two weeks. I can't wait! |
|
|
|
Post by padresfan619 on Jul 1, 2015 6:17:20 GMT
Make sure you don't need a license and if you do, get one. Last year in California I got a license for around $60.00 and it lasted the whole year. I was able to get it at Dick's Sporting Goods. You have to display it on your person, I stick mine on my fishing vest and just leave it there all year until it is time to replace it. Don't go hog wild buying gear, you can find stuff for dirt cheap on Craigslist. If it becomes a true hobby for your son, then feel free to get the good stuff.
I spent my childhood fishing with my dad and then didn't touch a pole for almost 10 years. Last year I went fishing for the first time in a long time and it all came back naturally. Granted, I had an experienced fisherman with me, but it only took about 2 casts before I was back in the saddle. Enjoy the time, it is very relaxing. My most favorite people to meet on camping trips are fishermen, they are always so helpful and friendly.
|
|
luckyexwife
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,067
|
Post by luckyexwife on Jul 1, 2015 12:35:24 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. I think killing the fish is the main goal here. Not always. I know lots of people that fish for the experience and throw most of them back. Don't forget sunscreen and lots of water ! Have fun!  |
|
|
|
Post by smalltowngirlie on Jul 1, 2015 12:42:49 GMT
I think killing the fish is the main goal here. Catch and release is very popular here. On all lakes in MN there are slot limits that you can not keep fish from and a limit on how many you can keep. Last week all but 2 walleye caught were within that limit and they were all thrown back. Many fish for the sport of it and do what they can to keep the fish alive. Many fishing tournaments have also changed how they judge/weigh in so there is a better chance the fish survive. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 20, 2024 15:08:29 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2015 14:25:49 GMT
I think killing the fish is the main goal here. Don't forget sunscreen and lots of water ! Have fun! That would be me. I have no desire to learn how to filet a fish, nor do I even want to. Catch them and throw them back, that's good enough for me. I do have great memories of smelt fishing with my dad when I was young. No poles required--just drop a net, pull up the net, and then fry and eat on the spot. It was so fun because you smelt fish at night, and Lake Michigan piers and docks would be filled with families and the piers were speckled with the fires going, etc. Good times. |
|
|
|
Post by Yubon Peatlejuice on Jul 1, 2015 14:32:34 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. I think killing the fish is the main goal here. For the OP, yes, it sounds like that is the case. They want to eat the fish and not just catch and release. And that's totally cool. But there are laws and each species of fish has a size minimum and possibly a quantity limit as well. Each state has its own laws, which the OP needs to learn. They will give you a fishing guide with your license that spells out these laws. If you don't give a shit about the fish or the laws, then by all means, fish any way you want to. Throw hand grenades in the water for shits and giggles. But for people who actually do care about wildlife or about respecting laws, then yes, you need to know how to fish properly, including how to take fish off of the hooks, to ensure their survival if they are not "keepers". For every "keeper" you feel in, there will be about 5 that are not large enough and will have to be thrown back. The smallest fish are the ones in danger because the large hooks (relative to their size) can do a lot of damage. If you want there to be any fish at all in a few years, then you will be careful. If you don't care, then keep telling me to unclench and do what you want. There are those of us though who look beyond our own enjoyment and enjoyment of our kids and actually care about the impact we have on the rest of the world. |
|
|
|
Post by peasapie on Jul 1, 2015 14:38:02 GMT
I agree with lessons. If you learn how to fish and where to go (place,time of day) your forays will be a lot more fun.
I like fly fishing best, though initially i learned with a bobber.
|
|
|
|
Post by peasapie on Jul 1, 2015 14:39:54 GMT
Fishing isn't something you can teach yourself. You can't watch YouTube videos and consider yourself trained. You really need to go with someone who knows how to fish or hire a guide. And it would still take you several weeks of daily fishing to learn. The problem is that you will kill a lot of fish if you don't know how to properly take them off the hook. Many times, a fish will swallow the hook and you need to know how to pull it out without killing the fish. Please be kind to nature. Don't take this on by yourself. I think killing the fish is the main goal here. Well no. The main goal isn't killing fish. The goal is to either catch and release back into the wild, or catch and eat. But killing fish senselessly is just cruel. |
|
smartypants71
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,711
Location: Houston, TX
|
Post by smartypants71 on Jul 1, 2015 15:06:53 GMT
We went fly fishing with a friend whose lessons were all from YouTube. It ended up being a miserable experience for all of us. I've never had a bait fishing lesson, and it's pretty easy, but then my SO takes care of the fish once caught  |
|
|
|
Post by elaine on Jul 1, 2015 15:08:43 GMT
I think killing the fish is the main goal here. For the OP, yes, it sounds like that is the case. They want to eat the fish and not just catch and release. And that's totally cool. But there are laws and each species of fish has a size minimum and possibly a quantity limit as well. Each state has its own laws, which the OP needs to learn. They will give you a fishing guide with your license that spells out these laws. If you don't give a shit about the fish or the laws, then by all means, fish any way you want to. Throw hand grenades in the water for shits and giggles. But for people who actually do care about wildlife or about respecting laws, then yes, you need to know how to fish properly, including how to take fish off of the hooks, to ensure their survival if they are not "keepers". For every "keeper" you feel in, there will be about 5 that are not large enough and will have to be thrown back. The smallest fish are the ones in danger because the large hooks (relative to their size) can do a lot of damage. If you want there to be any fish at all in a few years, then you will be careful. If you don't care, then keep telling me to unclench and do what you want. There are those of us though who look beyond our own enjoyment and enjoyment of our kids and actually care about the impact we have on the rest of the world. I already purchased a VA fishing license online and am working on our WV licenses. Best to buy online because you can reprint it if yours becomes damaged or lost. My 15 yo is too young for a license in VA, but needs one in WV. I also have have read and am familiar with the VA and WV regulations in terms of size and catch limits. We will do most of our fishing here in VA, and for most fish that we would be catching, there aren't size limits, or with some catfish, they need to be UNDER a certain length, not something we would probably encounter. I doubt that we would come close to the number limit per species, especially since I don't imagine keeping more than one fish a piece to eat. The rest will be catch and release. See - it really isn't that complicated to figure all that stuff out; I have somehow managed that part with the help of the Internet. I was was backpacking with the Sierra Club before you were born, Yubon, so your assumptions are just that: assumptions and wrong ones at that. Coming across as thinking that you are the only person who cares about the environment doesn't win people who don't know or care. If I didn't actually care, I'd be tempted to litter just to spite you and your ilk. Actually, according to my neighbor and the Internet, larger hooks are safer for the smaller fish because they either won't be hooked, or it is easier to unhook them if they do manage to bite. Small hooks can be swallowed whole, not hook the mouth, and do more damage trying to remove them. Given the amount of gear he has and was willing to share with the neighborhood at our block party, I'm going to trust his opinion on this. Yes, we practiced setting up a rig. Tieing on a hook. Putting on floaters/bobbers and also weights. Also baiting the hook with plastic worms - since we were all eating with our hands at the block party, no one was up for trying with real worms. We set up Coke cans and practiced casting to hit them. We are heading out to get some Zebco 33 poles (what he recommended and my boys practiced with) and #6 hooks today. The tentative plan is to go with our neighbor to a local lake on Tuesday or Wednesday the 14th or 15th. |
|
|
|
Post by JBeans on Jul 1, 2015 16:30:24 GMT
I think killing the fish is the main goal here. For the OP, yes, it sounds like that is the case. They want to eat the fish and not just catch and release. And that's totally cool. But there are laws and each species of fish has a size minimum and possibly a quantity limit as well. Each state has its own laws, which the OP needs to learn. They will give you a fishing guide with your license that spells out these laws. If you don't give a shit about the fish or the laws, then by all means, fish any way you want to. Throw hand grenades in the water for shits and giggles. But for people who actually do care about wildlife or about respecting laws, then yes, you need to know how to fish properly, including how to take fish off of the hooks, to ensure their survival if they are not "keepers". For every "keeper" you feel in, there will be about 5 that are not large enough and will have to be thrown back. The smallest fish are the ones in danger because the large hooks (relative to their size) can do a lot of damage. If you want there to be any fish at all in a few years, then you will be careful. If you don't care, then keep telling me to unclench and do what you want. There are those of us though who look beyond our own enjoyment and enjoyment of our kids and actually care about the impact we have on the rest of the world. Holy shit, Yubon. Yeah, you really need to relax. You're great at hyperbole. I'm sitting next to a fisherman who's fished for all his life in both salt and freshwater and is shaking his head at you and your diatribe. We're headed to our fishing trip with every freaking toy attached to our boat you could imagine. So yeah, fishing can be more complex as you go, but it doesn't have to be. If you stick with the basics of onshore bait fishing and your neighbour helping the first time, you'll be fine. Yes, read your booklet and know your limit before you go. Know if you have to take the barbs off your hooks before you go. But it isn't rocket science. |
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 20, 2024 15:08:29 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 1, 2015 16:31:06 GMT
My husband's brother shoots fish! Halibut that is.
So he gets in fishing and hunting in one trip.
Have fun with your adventure.
|
|
|
|
Post by JBeans on Jul 1, 2015 16:40:22 GMT
Sounds like you're off to a great start, Elaine. Have fun, I know we will!
|
|
|
|
Post by crimsoncat05 on Jul 1, 2015 16:40:54 GMT
please know that Yubon is not necessarily being all that overdramatic-- in certain areas, overfishing and not being careful with catch and release of the smaller-sized fish has led to a shortage of larger trophy fish. (since the small fish are what grow into the larger fish, and it can take years.)
No, fishing isn't rocket science-- but anyone who wants to take part responsibly in an outdoor sport like fishing or hunting should care enough about the environment and the sport to be cognizant of the affect they have (both positive and negative) as a result of partaking in that sport. Hunting and fishing can be good for the animal population overall, but done without regard to the long-term health of the population, they can be devastating.
|
|
