If you enjoy fishing, you will know the importance of choosing a good fishing spot.
Choosing a spot can be tricky for those who are new to this fun activity or have never given fishing a try if you don’t know what to consider.
We have put together the best tips and tricks on finding a good fishing spot, guaranteeing a great fishing experience and a great catch.
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Tips and Tricks to finding the best Fishing Spot
There are four steps to follow when planning a day of fishing or even a weekend away.
While these are not gospel, many have found them useful in locating the best fishing spots to catch their favorite type of fish.
Our tips and tricks will help you make your next fishing trip great, from the weather to possible sites.
Step #1: Research, Research, Research!
Do your research and try and learn as much as you possibly can about your chosen spot.
Using Google Earth, you can map out just about any body of water to see its size, depth, how it lays, and how the arms of a lake or creek run.
Things to consider when choosing a fishing spot are:
- The temperature of the water
- The type of fish you are hoping to catch
- Accessibility of the area by foot or boat
- Availability of docks, logs, and other fishing sites
Take note of the weather and the season you are in.
This is useful if you try to catch a particular type of fish that may be more prevalent in a specific season or environment.
Visit fishing blogs or forums to learn more about a specific area or fishing spot from someone who has been there before, and take note of any tips they may have when visiting the spot.
By doing a Google or other search online, you can find a comprehensive list of the best fishing spots in your area and what types of fish you can expect to catch in this area.
Step #2: Visit the spot
If possible, visit the spot beforehand and have a look around.
Take a walk around and “get the lay of the land,” as they say.
If you are planning a boat fishing trip, it may be useful to take note of the following:
- Bird activity – Birds are more likely to congregate near baitfish sites.
- Using a fish finder, check the depth and temperature of the water and even pinpoint the tricky spots where fish may be hiding.
- Measure the strength of the current and, if necessary, the tides. This helps when it comes to the reel and line you use.
A fish finder is an extremely useful tool for those who prefer to fish from a boat or fishing kayak but can be used for anglers who fish from a dock or riverbank.
Using sound and sonar waves, a fish finder is great for boat fishing.
It can identify underwater structures, map out the body of water, and give you accurate temperature and depth readings that can help you land the best catch.
Step #3: Choose your spot
While exploring the area, look out for any docks, clearings, and fallen logs that might be useful to fish from.
Fish are often deterred by movement, so a dry spot outside the water yet close to the school is ideal.
For the more experienced anglers, taking note of the vegetation like lily pads and other water plants can help identify possibly hiding spots for fish like bass.
Step #4: Plan according to the season and current weather pattern
Fish can be divided into two main types.
They are either warm-water species or cold-water species and will only be found in locations that suit their needs.
The water temperature will affect the type of fish you will find in a certain body of water, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Warm-water fish are more likely to be found in shallow water on warm days and flourish in water with a temperature of around 97 degrees Fahrenheit.
These include largemouth bass, catfish, angelfish, and crappies.
Cold-water fish can be found in deeper, colder water, with temperatures no higher than 73 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spring and autumn are the seasons for fishing cold-water fish, including trout, salmon, and burbot.
What to Pack for your Fishing Trip
Packing for a fishing trip can leave you flustered and wondering if you have everything you need.
While the most obvious things you will need include a tackle box and your rod and reel, there are a few other things that you can pack to make your fishing experience more enjoyable:
- Sunblock
- A hat
- Sunglasses (polarized sunglasses are great for seeing into the water)
- A change of clothes
- Snacks and a picnic lunch
- Water and other drinks to keep hydrated
- A first-aid kit
- Bug spray
- Matches or a lighter
- A flashlight
- A pocket knife
While some of these items might seem extreme, it is better to be prepared for every eventuality.
Safety should be the most important concern, and having a first-aid kit can be handy for cuts from hooks or slipping on rocks.
Remember to pack disinfectant cream and many band-aids or bandages.
Items like matches or a lighter and a flashlight can be used if you get lost or are suddenly stranded in the middle of nowhere, or can even be used to make a fire to cook any fish you have caught.
Remember to check the area’s guidelines on fires and the type of fish you are allowed to catch before you plan your trip.
Some areas may require a special permit to allow you to fish in their waters.
Conclusion
Fishing is a great, relaxing activity for the whole family.
But, a poor choice in a fishing spot can quickly turn a fun experience into a drab and boring one if there are no fish around.
Using the tips and tricks we have outlined in this article, finding a good fishing spot is easy.
Read outdoor and fishing forums or blogs, chat with friends and family that go fishing regularly, or visit a fishing tackle or bait shop for more tips on making your next fishing trip exceptional.
