Fishing Cheatsheet
Equipment
- Fishing rod and reel
- Fishing line (monofilament, braided, or fluorocarbon)
- Hooks (various sizes and styles)
- Sinkers or weights
- Bobbers or floats
- Lures or bait (artificial or live)
- Pliers or forceps
- Net or gaff
- Fishing license (required in many areas)
Techniques
- Casting: using a fishing rod and reel to cast the line and bait or lure into the water
- Retrieving: reeling in the line to move the bait or lure through the water and attract fish
- Setting the hook: pulling the rod to set the hook in the fish’s mouth when it bites
- Playing the fish: using the rod and reel to tire out the fish and bring it closer to shore or the boat
- Landing the fish: using a net or gaff to safely bring the fish out of the water
Types of Fishing
- Freshwater fishing: fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams for species such as bass, trout, and catfish
- Saltwater fishing: fishing in oceans, bays, and estuaries for species such as tuna, salmon, and marlin
- Fly fishing: using a specialized rod and reel to cast a lightweight fly and lure fish such as trout and salmon
- Ice fishing: fishing through a hole in the ice for species such as walleye and perch
- Shore fishing: fishing from the shore or a pier for a variety of species
Knots
- Improved Clinch Knot: used to tie the fishing line to the hook or lure
- Palomar Knot: used to tie the fishing line to the hook or lure
- Blood Knot: used to join two pieces of fishing line together
- Uni Knot: used to tie the fishing line to the reel or to join two pieces of fishing line together
Safety
- Wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat or in deep water
- Use caution when handling hooks and fish to avoid injury
- Be aware of weather conditions and potential hazards such as strong currents or slippery rocks
Resources