This is one of those knots you should always know when you go fishing.
It’s simple to tie, but incredibly strong. Double Clinch knot.Awesome Fishing Knots tests strength of fishing knots. Every fishing knot has video tutorial, demonstration, practical use instructions videos from the best "How to Fish" YouTube fishing channel in the world.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Wednesday, 19 November 2025
Fishing Float Setup - Tutorial for Beginners
Catch your first fish, if you are going with friends to have fun on a holiday, this fishing tutorial will definitely help you catch some freshwater or saltwater fish. With this floater setup you can catch freshwater sunfish, bluegill, crappie, and perch or pinfish in saltwater.
Just add some worms or maggots on smaller hook than one I demonstrated. You can find tutorials on my channel How to hook worms https://youtu.be/7rYBnwYbmUs and how to hook maggots https://youtu.be/0G9kPHuw1iIMonday, 17 November 2025
Step by Step Rig Tutorial by 40 Year Angler! 8 Knots Fishing Rig! Tutorial with Dropper Loops, Palomar & Clinch Knots
Learn to tie Paternoster rig for bottom fishing and the correct way to tie fishing knots step by step. It is perfect for beginners! This setup is good for salwater and freshwater fishing.
In this easy to follow video, I demonstrate how to attach a weight, make two overhand knots, tie two hooks, make two dropper loops and secure a swivel using 8 total knots (3 Palomar, 2, Overhand knot, 2 Dropper Loop and 1 Improved Clinch Knot). Everything is filmed slowly in 4K UHD and clearly on a black background using bright green and orange braided lines, large hooks and a big sinker so you won’t miss a detail. 🎣 With 40 years of fishing experience and 13 years of YouTube teaching, I’ve made this video to help you master knots the right way.Sunday, 16 November 2025
How to Spool a Fishing Reel Like a Pro (No Tangles, No Line Twist)
Learn the right way to spool your fishing reel for smooth casting and zero line twist.
This step by step quick guide shows strong and reliable fishing knot that will secure your line to fishing reel. This is great fishing lesson for beginners, whether you’re using mono, braid or fluorocarbon. Take some time to practice so you’ll be ready to tie themwhen you need it. When I was a kid I didn't know this and I was using my self thought way that I will show you in the next video. 🎣 Works for spinning and baitcasting reels.#FishingTutorial #SpoolingReel #FishingSetup #FishingKnots
Friday, 14 November 2025
Only Two Fishing Knots for Swivel every Angler need to know #fishing #fishingknot #swivel #knot
In 1 minute I'll show you 2 knots to tie fishing swivel for braided, monofilament or fluorocarbon line. First knot is to tie main fishing line to swivel and seconf knot is to tie swivel to leader (short line with hooks or lures). These 2 fishing knots are essential and really only 2 you need to know to attach your swivel quick and secure.
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Best 5 Snell Knots for Every Angler 2025
🎣 Learn how to snell a hook using five of the most reliable methods!
How many of these snell knots can you tie? leave a comment In this visual fishing knot tutorial (no talking, just instrumental background), I’ll show you how to snell a hook using several different techniques, simple and easy fishing knot, quick ties to more advanced methods that require practice and precision. If you enjoy realistic, no voice, easy to follow fishing knot tutorials, you’ll love this one. ⏱️ Knots Included: 00:00 1.Easy Snell Knot 00:43 2.Knotlessl Knot 01:20 3.Uni Snell Knot 02:20 4.Snell Knot with Straw 03:33 5.Traditional Snell Knot👍 If you found this useful, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more practical fishing tutorials! #fishing #fishingknot #knot #leaderknot #fishingknots #fishingtips #snellknot #fishingtutorial
Tuesday, 26 August 2025
The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Fishing
There is something timeless about fishing. For centuries people have gathered around water not just to catch food but to relax, connect with nature and enjoy the thrill of the tug on the line. Among the many styles of fishing, freshwater fishing is more beginner friendly than saltwater fishing. It doesn’t require a boat and expensive equipment or years of experience to start catching fish. You can simply head to a nearby pond or riverbank with a basic setup and get started.
What makes freshwater fishing so appealing is its accessibility. Whether you live in the countryside or in a bustling city, chances are there is a lake or river nearby that zou can catch some fish. It’s also a hobby that fits any lifestyle. Some people enjoy the quiet patience of waiting with a bobber on still water while others love the active challenge of casting and retrieving lures.
This guide is designed for beginners who are eager to learn the basics of freshwater fishing. From essential gear and simple techniques to understanding fish behavior and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll find everything you need to confidently make your first cast. By the end of this guide you’ll not only know how to catch fish but you’ll also understand why so many anglers consider fishing more than a hobby!
1. Getting Started: Essential Gear
One of the biggest misconceptions about fishing is that you need a truckload of expensive equipment to catch fish. The truth? You can start freshwater fishing with just a few affordable essentials. Having the right gear makes your experience smoother but more importantly it helps you learn the fundamentals without unnecessary frustration.
Rod & Reel
For beginners a simple spinning rod and reel combo is the best choice. Spinning reels are easy to use, versatile and forgiving if you make a mistake. Unlike baitcasting reels, which require more skill to avoid line tangles (“bird’s nests”), spinning reels let you focus on learning the basics first. Look for a medium light to medium power rod around 6 to 7 feet long, which works well for most freshwater fish like bass, trout and panfish.
Fishing Line
Your line is the invisible connection between you and the fish so it matters more than most beginners realize. The best all around choice for starters is monofilament line. It’s inexpensive, easy to handle and has some stretch, which helps absorb sudden pulls from fish. A 6–10 lb test line (strength rating) is usually perfect for general freshwater fishing.
Tackle Essentials
A small tackle box with a handful of basics will take you far:
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Hooks: Sizes 6–10 are great for beginning, remember that small hook can catch big fish, but big hook can't catch small fish.
Sinkers/Weights: These help your bait sink to the right depth. Video instruction how to tie bottom sinker
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Bobbers (Floats): Great for beginners as they keep your bait suspended and let you see when a fish bites. Watch video instruction How to setup Bobber and adjust weight.
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Lures: Start with a few simple ones like soft plastic worms, spinners or crankbaits. These imitate prey and can trigger strikes from active fish. Watch video instruction How to tie Fishing Lure
Bait: Live vs Artificial
Bait is what actually attracts the fish and your choice depends on what you’re targeting. For beginners, live bait like nightcrawlers, worms or minnows is the most effective and simple option. Artificial lures can be fun and rewarding, but they take more practice to master. If you’re just starting out worms and a bobber setup will catch almost anything in freshwater.
Watch video instruction: How to Catch Worms
Accessories
A few small extras make your fishing trip much easier:
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Tackle box to organize your gear.
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Needle nose pliers for removing hooks safely.
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Fishing net for landing fish without losing them at the shoreline.
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Measuring tape in case your catch has size limits.
With just these essentials you’ll be fully equipped to step onto the bank or dock and start fishing. The best part? Most of this gear can be found in beginner bundles or starter kits at local sporting goods stores meaning you don’t have to break the bank to get started.
2. Finding the Right Spot
When it comes to freshwater fishing, location is everything. I don't know how to emphasizes this. The best angler in the world with the best will catch zero fish, but total beginner on a excellent fishing spot will catch few fish. So you don’t need to travel across the country to find trophy fish often, sometimes the best fishing spots are right in your backyard. The key is knowing where fish like to hide and feed.
Lakes, Rivers and Ponds: Pros and Cons
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Ponds and Small Lakes: Best for beginners. They’re easy to navigate, usually stocked with panfish or bass and don’t require a boat. Many local parks have fishing friendly ponds open to the public.
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Larger Lakes: Offer a wider variety of species like bass, walleye, catfish and crappie. The shoreline can produce great fishing but having a kayak or small boat opens more opportunities.
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Rivers and Streams: A bit more challenging, since the water is moving. However, they’re fantastic for species like trout, smallmouth bass and catfish. Look for calmer sections (eddies, pools) where fish conserve energy.
What to Look for in a Spot
Fish don’t just swim randomly they relate to structure and cover for safety and feeding opportunities. Some great signs you’re in the right place:
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Weed Beds and Lily Pads: Hideouts for bass and panfish.
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Fallen Trees and Logs: Provide shade and shelters are often full of fish.
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Rocks and Riprap: Attract small baitfish, which in turn attract bigger predators.
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Dropoffs or Deep Holes: Fish use these areas to move between shallow feeding grounds and deeper, cooler water.
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Shaded Areas: Especially during hot summer days, fish prefer cooler water near docks, bridges or overhanging trees.
Timing Matters
Even the best spot can be empty at the wrong time. Fish are most active:
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Early Morning & Late Evening: Cooler temps make fish more active near the surface.
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Cloudy Days: Fish are less wary and more likely to roam away from cover.
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Before a Storm: Changing pressure often sparks a feeding frenzy.
Local Resources
Don’t overlook the power of community knowledge:
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State Wildlife Websites: Most states publish fishing maps, stocking schedules and regulations.
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Local Bait Shops: The staff knows what’s biting and where it’s often worth buying bait there just for the insider tips.
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Online Forums & Apps: Apps like Fishbrain or Navionics let you check out popular fishing spots nearby.
Licensing and Regulations
Before you cast your first line, make sure you have the proper fishing license for your state or region. Regulations also set rules on:
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Catch Limits (how many fish you can keep).
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Size Limits (minimum/maximum size allowed).
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Seasonal Restrictions (some fish are off limits during spawning).
👉 Not only is this important for conservation, but fines for fishing without a license can be hefty.
Quick Tip: If you’re completely new and don’t know where to start, try asking: “Where’s the closest pond stocked with bluegill or trout?” These species are abundant, eager to bite and perfect for beginners.
3. Understanding Fish Behavior
Catching fish isn’t just about luck it’s about knowing how fish live, feed and react to their environment. Once you understand what drives their behavior, you’ll start predicting where they’ll be and when they’re most likely to bite.
The Role of Water Temperature
Fish are cold blooded, which means their activity levels are tied directly to water temperature.
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Cool Water (Spring/Fall): Many species like bass, trout and walleye are more active, feeding aggressively to prepare for winter or after spawning.
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Hot Summer Days: Fish often retreat to deeper, cooler water during midday, becoming more active in the early morning or late evening.
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Winter: In cold climates, fish slow down dramatically. Ice fishing can still be productive, but their metabolism means slower, smaller presentations work best.
Weather and Conditions
Weather has a surprising impact on fish:
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Cloudy Days: Fish feel safer moving into shallow water since they’re less exposed to predators.
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Sunny Days: They stick to shady areas, deeper water or cover like weeds and logs.
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Before a Storm: A drop in barometric pressure often triggers a feeding frenzy.
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After a Storm: Fishing can slow down, as fish need time to adjust.
Daily Patterns
Most freshwater fish feed during predictable times of the day:
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Early Morning (Dawn): Cooler temperatures and lower light encourage fish to move shallow and feed.
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Late Afternoon–Evening (Dusk): Another peak feeding time as the day cools down.
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Night Fishing: Certain species, like catfish, walleye are more active after dark. Especially in summer when weather is hot and water is warm.
Feeding Habits by Species
Knowing what fish like to eat can help you choose the right bait:
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Bass: Opportunistic predators, they’ll strike worms, minnows and lures that mimic small fish or frogs.
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Trout: Prefer insects, small minnows and flies. They thrive in cool, oxygen rich streams.
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Catfish: Bottom feeders, drawn to strong smelling baits like chicken liver, stink bait or cut fish.
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Panfish (Bluegill, Perch, Crappie): Aggressive feeders on worms, insects and small minnows. Perfect for beginners.
The Importance of Patience and Observation
Fishing isn’t just about casting and reeling it’s about watching the water. Look for signs of activity:
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Ripples near the surface.
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Birds diving into the water (they’re hunting the same baitfish the big fish are).
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Jumping or splashing fish.
Look for experience anglers what they are doing and where they fish
The more time you spend observing, the better you’ll become at “reading the water” and choosing the right strategy.
4. Basic Fishing Techniques
Once you’ve got your gear ready and found a good spot, it’s time to learn the techniques that turn patience into fish in the net. Freshwater fishing doesn’t have to be complicated mastering just a few simple methods will give you the confidence to start catching right away.
Casting Basics
Casting is the foundation of fishing. With a spinning rod and reel (the best choice for beginners), here’s the simple process:
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Hold the rod with your dominant hand and pinch the line lightly against the rod with your index finger.
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Open the reel’s bail (the wire arm that controls the line).
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Swing the rod back gently, then forward in a smooth motion.
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Release your finger pressure at the right moment to let the line fly forward.
🎯 Practice Tip: Spend 15 minutes practicing casting in your backyard with a weight tied on (no hook). Accuracy matters more than distance.
Still Fishing (Bobber Fishing)
This is the simplest and most beginner friendly technique.
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Rig: Attach a hook, bait it with a worm, add a small sinker below the hook and a bobber above it. Watch video instruction How to setup Bobber
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Cast it out and wait. The bobber will float until a fish bites when it dips below the surface, set the hook with a quick upward lift of your rod.
This method is great for catching bluegill, perch and other panfish ideal for beginners and kids.
Bottom Fishing
Some fish, like catfish and carp, prefer hanging out near the bottom.
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Rig: Use a heavier sinker so your bait stays on the bottom, with a hook baited with worms, chicken liver or stink bait. Watch instruction video How to Setup Bottom Rig
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Cast out, let the sinker settle and watch for your line to twitch.
This method is more about patience, but when a catfish takes the bait, you’ll know it’s usually a strong, steady pull.
Lure Fishing (Casting and Retrieving)
Lures are artificial baits designed to mimic prey. Beginners should start with easy to use types:
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Spinners: Simple cast and reel lures that flash and vibrate, attracting bass and trout.
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Crankbaits: Designed to dive and wobble like a small fish. Just cast and retrieve steadily.
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Soft Plastics: Worms, grubs or minnows that can be fished slowly near the bottom bass love them.
Watch instruction video How to tie Fishing Lure
Tip: Vary your speed. Sometimes a fast retrieve triggers aggressive strikes, while other times a slow, steady pull works best.
Catch and Release Tips
Even if you plan to keep a few fish for dinner, learning proper catch&release is important:
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Wet your hands before handling fish to protect their slime coat.
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Use pliers to remove hooks gently.
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Support the fish horizontally instead of squeezing it.
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Release quickly prolonged air exposure stresses the fish.
Practicing good fish care ensures healthy populations for future trips.
Building Technique Confidence
Don’t feel pressured to learn everything at once. Many anglers spend their first trips just using a worm and bobber and that’s perfectly fine. Once you’re comfortable, start experimenting with bottom rigs or lures to expand your skills.
Quick Tip: If you’re not getting bites, don’t be afraid to move. Sometimes a simple change of spot or trying a different depth makes all the difference.
5. Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Fishing is supposed to be fun, but many beginners quit early because of simple mistakes that are easy to fix. Avoiding these will save you time, frustration and maybe even a few tangles in your line.
1. Using the Wrong Gear
Beginners often buy rods and reels that are too advanced, too heavy or too cheap. A simple spinning combo with 6–10 lb line is all you need to start.
2. Fishing at the Wrong Time of Day
Midday, especially in summer, is usually the slowest time for fishing. Fish are far more active in the early morning and evening, so plan your trips around those windows.
3. Overcomplicating the Setup
It’s tempting to load up with multiple sinkers, giant hooks and fancy lures. In reality a small hook, single sinker and a worm under bobber will outfish most complex rigs for beginners.
4. Ignoring Local Rules and Licenses
Nothing ruins a first fishing trip faster than a ticket from a game warden. Always check if you need a fishing license and know the size and catch limits for your area.
5. Losing Patience Too Quickly
Fishing requires waiting and experimenting. If one spot or method doesn’t work, move a little, change bait or adjust your depth but don’t give up after 15 minutes. Some of the best catches happen after an hour of trying.
Quick Tip: Remember, every angler (even the pros) has days where nothing bites. The key is to treat those trips as learning opportunities instead of failures.
6. Building Confidence
The first few fishing trips can feel overwhelming new gear, unfamiliar knots and the pressure to actually catch something. The good news is that confidence comes quickly with a few small wins. Here are some ways to build momentum as a beginner.
Start with Easy to Catch Species
Targeting trophy bass or walleye on your first trip can be discouraging. Instead, go after bluegill, crappie or perch. These fish are abundant, bite readily and are usually found in shallow water near docks, weeds or shorelines. Nothing builds confidence like steady action on the line.
Practice Casting Off the Water
Casting is one of the hardest skills for beginners, but you don’t need a lake to practice. Tie on a weight (no hook) and practice in your backyard or at a park. Even 10–15 minutes makes a big difference and prevents frustration on the water.
Learn One Knot at a Time (How to Fish - YouTube channel)
Knots can seem intimidating, but you really only need one reliable knot to start: the Improved Clinch Knot. It’s simple, strong and works for most freshwater fishing situations. Master this before moving on to others.
Second knot you should learn is Palomar Knot, it is great, simle and reliable for braided fishing line!
If you don't have hook with eye (hole at the end of the hook shank), that means you have spade end or eyeless hook. Eyeless hook knot or Snell Knot can be used to any hook, which is a little bit more practice than easisest knots, but once you master, you are set for life.
Any case this 5 knots are essential for any angler to know, you can find them in this 5 minute course on youtube:
5 Knots for Hooks Every Fisherman Should Know
Use Live Bait First
Artificial lures can be fun, but they take practice to use effectively. Live bait like worms, minnows or crickets almost always works and builds early confidence with bites and catches. Once you’ve had some success, then experiment with lures.
Join a Community
Fishing is easier (and more fun) when you learn from others.
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Local clubs and Facebook groups often share tips and hot spots.
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Fishing buddies help you pick up tricks faster and celebrate your catches.
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Online forums and apps let you track your progress and learn from more experienced anglers.
Quick Tip: Keep expectations realistic. Not every trip will end with a full stringer, but every trip will teach you something. Over time, those small lessons add up to big improvements.
Conclusion
Freshwater fishing is more than just a way to catch fish it’s a way to slow down, connect with nature and enjoy time outdoors with family and friends. The beauty of this hobby is that it doesn’t take expensive gear or years of experience to get started. With a simple spinning combo, a few hooks and bobbers and some live bait, you’re ready to cast your first line.
As a beginner, learn knots from 40 years experienced angler www.youtube.com/user/@HowToFish focus on the basics: learn 1 fishing knot at time (ex. Palomar Knot) choose easy spots like ponds or lakes, target willing species like bluegill or catfish and learn one technique at a time. Along the way, you’ll discover that fishing isn’t only about filling a cooler it’s about the peace of an early morning on the water, the excitement of your first bite and the lessons learned on the days when the fish just won’t cooperate.
The journey of fishing is ongoing. Each trip teaches you something new, whether it’s reading the water, trying a different bait or simply practicing patience. Over time, those small lessons build the confidence and skills that turn beginners into lifelong anglers.
So grab your rod, find a local spot and make that first cast. Whether you catch a trophy bass or a tiny bluegill, you’ll understand why millions of people consider freshwater fishing not just a hobby, but a passion and a way of life.
Bookmark this page to easily find this Fishing Guide
Tuesday, 3 September 2024
Fishing Baits: A Comprehensive Guide
Fishing baits are essential tools for attracting and enticing fish to bite. There are countless options available, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here's a comprehensive overview of different types of fishing baits:
Live Baits
- Baitfish: Small live fish like minnows, shad, and shiners are popular choices for many species.
- Classics: These include insects, worms and small crustaceans.
- Nightcrawlers: Large, earthworms that are highly effective for catfish and bass.
- Leeches: Often used for trout and panfish.
- Grasshoppers: A great choice for bass and other predatory fish.
Dead Baits
- Canned bait: Examples include sardines, shrimp and anchovies.
- Cut bait: Chunks of fish or other animals.
- Chicken liver: A popular choice for catfish.
- Beef heart: Often used for carp and catfish.
Artificial Baits
- Soft plastics: Versatile and come in various shapes and sizes.
- Hard baits: Include crankbaits, jerkbaits and spinnerbaits.
- Jigs: Weighted hooks with a variety of skirts and trailers.
- Topwater lures: Designed to float on the surface of the water and create disturbances that attract fish.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bait
- Target species: Different fish have different preferences.
- Water conditions: The clarity, temperature and current of the water can influence bait choice.
- Fishing technique: The method you're using will determine the best type of bait.
- Personal preference: Experiment with different baits to find what works best for you.
Tips for Using Baits
- Presentation: The way you present your bait can make a big difference. Consider factors like depth, speed and action.
- Hook selection: Choose a hook that is appropriate for the size and type of bait you're using.
- Scent: Adding scent to your bait can make it more attractive to fish.
Wednesday, 7 January 2015
Improved Clinch Knot | How to tie an Improved Clinch Knot | Realiable Fishing Knot
This knot goes in the group of self-tightening knots which means that the knot becomes more tight with pulling the fishing line harder. You can use different types of fishing lines with this knot like monofilament, fluorocarbon or braided line.
Issues with this line is that the line can sleep while it self-tights if the tag end is not long enough. Try to leave at least 5mm or quarter of an inch and don’t worry, like other knots, it’s a small chance that fish can poke on the end tag. In previous blogs you can find articles on how to burn the tag end so it becomes thicker and harder to slip off plus fish can’t poke on tag ends which leads to becoming suspicious and losing interest in bait. Second issue is with lines over 30lbs or 14kg monofilament it is very hard to keep this knot tight because line is harder to be band and the elasticity is much smaller than with thinner fishing lines.
One of the most important things with this knot is to be very well lubricated before final tightening which means the line should be wet even with water or saliva it doesn’t matter. This will reduce friction and protect your fishing lines from damage which means your line capacity will stay as it says on the label.
Improved Clinch knot as it's name says is very similar with Clinch knot (which you can read about on the page before this Clinch Knot tutorial with fishing tips!) and only one additional step at the end makes the difference, but is it a big difference? We will investigate.
How to tie an Improved Clinch Knot?
Step 1. Get the line through the hook for about 15cm or 6inch, a bit more than for a Clinch knot.
Step 2. Hold with thumb and index finger the main fishing line tag end, with the other hand hold the fishing hook then start twisting the hook 6 times if the line is less than 30pounds or around 15kg, if your line is over 15kg or 30 pounds twist only 4 times because it's more than enough. If you twist more than necessary you will damage the line with lot's of friction or it will be unevenly tied and easy to untie.
Step 3. Tag end push inside the loop under the hook eye, look at the orange colored line in my picture ( I know I'm not talented for drawing :) ).
Step 4. Now the tag end goes through one more loop, the big one that you just created like on the picture below.
Step 5. Very important step with all knots, before finishing the knot, you need to lubricate it to reduce friction and damaging the fishing line. You can lubricate with water or saliva it doesn't really make a big difference. After you finish all of these steps, you should get a knot like this one below.
Step 6. There is one more optional step that you can use with all knots at the end. Some old man taught me when I was a kid that I should use a lighter to burn the tag end so fish can't poke on the sharp tag end which could be negative for the fishes interest for our bait. I think there is one more good reason that you should burn the tag end and that is that the burned end becomes thicker and is much, much harder to slip over even when the fishing knot is tied properly. Why not, if you have time one more secure measure can just help in extreme situations maybe with your biggest fish.
Step 7. If you still have some hesitations about how to tie fishing knot? I recommend the Youtube channel How to Fish - Fishing tutorials.
Improved Clinch Knot video tutorial you can watch down here:
Enjoy fishing, tight lines!
@Ivo












