What is Freshwater Fishing?
Let’s keep this simple – freshwater fishing is fishing in lakes, rivers and streams, as well as ponds and reservoirs.
These water bodies contain a host of different fishing types, as well as being stunning examples of nature that we can connect with and enjoy.
Freshwater lake fishing and river fishing is a fun activity but must be done in a way that is responsible and helps maintain the freshwater ecosystems. Without this approach, freshwater fishing can lead to damage and destruction that is not in keeping with the true ethos of this activity.
Freshwater fishing techniques and strategies
Casting is the act of throwing the bait, hook or lure that is attached to your line into the water using your rod. From here, the aim is for the fish to take the bite so they can then be reeled in and caught.
There are many different casting techniques, including overhead casting, sidearm casting, pitch casting and side-side casting. These take time to perfect, so do your research and find ways to get to grips with the different types of casting.
How to choose your lure is also an important thing to learn. There are many artificial lures out there, including crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics. These lures have different effects and success rates with different species, so look to learn what lures work best for your chosen freshwater fish target.
Bait fishing is another technique used in freshwater fishing, which sees worms, minnows and insects used to lure fish in. And we must mention fly fishing, which is particularly popular in freshwater fishing circles.
Equipment for Freshwater Fishing
There are some pieces of equipment needed for freshwater fishing, including rods, reels and lines, fishing tackle and safety gear.
Certain rods are designed for techniques, so be sure to find a rod that suits your abilities and skills. Equally, different reels, like spinning reels and baitcasting reels, as well as lines, have different compatibility with different styles of fishing.
Tackle is also a vital part of freshwater fishing tackle. Hooks, sinkers, swivels, and bobbers are all popular tackle items that can play a crucial role in landing the freshwater fish of your liking.
And we must also mention safety equipment, like life jackets in case an accident occurs, and you end up in the water. Polarized sunglasses can also help when freshwater fishing, as these allow you to see through the surface of the water more easily and locate where fish are and the areas they may be hiding. Having good sun protection is a must in order to protect your skin while freshwater fishing.
Freshwater Fish Species
Bass fishing is a popular type of freshwater fishing, where largemouth and smallmouth bass are targeted, while panfish and trout fishing is also common.
Other popular species of freshwater fish to catch include catfish and carp, both of which are known for their size and strength.
Why try freshwater fishing?
Now you know the basics of freshwater fishing, you might still be wondering why this activity is such a popular thing for people to do.
One of the most common things you will hear when it comes to fishing generally is how relaxing and stress relieving it is. The connection with nature you feel when freshwater fishing is really something special, taking you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and giving your brain and body a much needed rest. This is why fishing is heralded as having a therapeutic effect and can help boost mental wellbeing. If this sounds good, giving freshwater fishing a try could be well worthwhile.
Freshwater fishing is also a great way to learn new skills and test your boundaries, while additionally presenting the chance to meet new people and be more sociable.
For all these reasons and more, we at Gill Fishing truly celebrate the world of freshwater fishing and sell apparel that helps people get involved with this great activity.
We also have a host of content around freshwater fishing which may well be of interest. Take a look at our beginner’s guide to freshwater fishing, as well as our freshwater fishing tips, tournament and interview pages, and find out all you need to know.
