If you’re anything like me, there are few things better than pulling on your waders for a fishing trip on a small river or stream. The sound of the water, the smell of the air, just being in the presence of Nature, I’m not sure what draws me to small river and stream fishing, but the point is I love it. In this article I’m going to outline some tips and techniques that will help you become much more successful when fishing in small rivers and streams.
The first thing to discuss is the clothing you wear. When fishing in and around small river and streams it’s very important not to “stand out”. The fish in these types of waterways are very cognizant of their surroundings and if they notice you, they are much less apt to bite. In fact, you can easily “spook” an entire area fairly easily which means that nothing will bite. For this reason, you want to make sure that you wear drab clothing that doesn’t make you stick out like a sore thumb. When fishing in small river and/or streams, don’t wear “loud” clothing.
The next thing to consider is you hands; yes I said your hands. Fish that swim in these types of waterways a also very aware of anything unnatural, which includes scents. If you have any unnatural scents on your hands, this will transfer to your bait/lure and fish such as trout will detect these scents and tend not to bite. This is why you should always make sure that your hands are free of any unnatural odors. This can be accomplished by grabbing a handful of grass or dirt and rubbing it into your hands every hour or so.
The next consideration is when you’re fishing. There are times of the day, week, and month that are better than others for fishing. Making sure that you’re on the water when the fish are the most active will make a big difference in your catch rates. To make sure that your fishing when the fish are the most active all that you have to do is pay attention to the weather and moon. The weather and moon hold the key to being on the water when the fish are the most active, there’s no doubt about that.
A great technique when fishing in small rivers and streams is to allow a live worm to flow naturally with the current, bouncing along the bottom as it travels. If your worm is rigged on a set of gang hooks the results can be incredible. Gang hooks are the most natural way to present a live worm while fishing. When you start using gang hooks to present live worms, you will never again use a single hook. It just won’t make sense any longer.
Begin employing one or all of these tips sooner, rather than later and you will start catching more fish. How am I so sure of this? Because I’ve personally been using every one of these tips with a great degree of success for more than 20 years, and I know how valuable they are.
By: Trevor Kugler
Posts Tagged ‘Waders’
Small River And Stream Fishing Tips
April 25th, 2010Fishing Equipment
March 9th, 2010
Fishing is a widely enjoyed pastime, which enthusiasts integrate into their daily lives. The thrill of catching a large fish after a tough chase really doesn’t compare, and the drive and motivation to improve and learn new techniques is always there. This makes fishing a very popular and in depth sport for participants, and it’s easy to see why so many people are hooked.
A fishing trip away with some friends can be a great way to release the stresses and strains of everyday life. A truly relaxing and enjoyable experience, the fishing trip can be a great way to clear the head and unwind. Before you can go on a fishing trip, it is essential that you stock up on everything you’ll need to make your trip possible, and thoroughly enjoyable.
The first thing you will need to think about is the nature of your trip. Obviously if you are opting for an overnight stay, your requirements will be very different from a day trip, and it is worthwhile having an idea of what you’ll require before you set off. If you are planning an overnight stay, you’ll need to think about an appropriate tent, or organise alternative accommodation. Additionally, you’ll need to pack food and emergency supplies to last you through. The last thing you want is to have to rush to a local shop in the middle of your fishing trip.
As far as the fishing is concerned, you’re going to need to gather some amount of equipment. Fundamentally, you’ll need a rod or net, some line, bait and a hook or two. On top of that, you’ll almost certainly require solid, waterproof boots or waders, and some layers to keep out the cold. As far as bait is concerned, you should look to have a variation, given that different fish go for different things, and you might also want to consider fly fishing as your method of choice. There are simply loads of different options to choose from, and the choice is yours.
Your fishing trip should be fun, and give you a chance to unwind, but this can’t be possible if you don’ have the right equipment. By stocking up before you go, you will not only add to the enjoyment of your trip but also increase your chances of catching that prize fish. All in all, the preparation is essential to the overall experience, and can really make or break and fishing trip.
By: Jonathon Hardcastle
Fly Fishing Basics – Learning to Fish
February 4th, 2010
Are you an avid fisherman who is interested in learning more about fly fishing? Fly fishing looks significantly different from regular bait or lure fishing. However, if you learn a few fly fishing basics you can be on your way toward enjoying your fishing experience even more.
Flies
Fly fishing utilizes artificial flies that are cast with a fly rod and a fly line. Artificial flies come in all different types, nearly any size, weight, color you could want. Many fly fishermen actually tie their own flies. These artificial flies are tied using materials such as fur, hair, feathers, and other materials. The fly is tied onto a hook. The hook will vary in size depending on the type of fish you are trying to catch. The goal is to try and match the fly to those insects that are native to the area that you are fishing.
Fly Line
The fly line is coated in plastic and has enough weight to get the fly to its destination but still gently lay the fly on the water.
Casting Method
One of the key fly fishing basics to know is how to cast. In fly fishing, the goal is to cast the line rather than the lure. Lure and bait fishing methods rely on the weight of the lure or weights on the line to make an effective cast. Artificial flies are too light to be cast. To cast a fly fishing pole, the fisherman holds the rod and sways the rod back and forth, unreeling the line in the process. The proper movements are commonly described as 10 to 2. Think of the fisherman being in the middle of a big clock. 12 would be holding the rod straight up, 9 would be flat backward, and 3 would be flat forward. So 10 and 2 would be approximately 45 degrees in front and back. The casting process should be rhythmic. Improper casting will lead to tangled lines. It can take several hours practicing before one can master flycasting.
Using Waders for Cold Water Fishing
Another one of fly fishing basics is the use of waders. Cold water flyfishers use boots that reach up to the fisher’s chest, these are known as waders. The purpose of waders is to wade into the water so that the fisherman can wade into the water farther and effectively cast their line to where the fish are located.
Types of Fish to Catch When Flyfishing
A wide variety of fish can be caught when flyfishing. Some examples of fish that can be caught with a flyrod are trout, salmon, pike, bass, panfish, and carp.
Get Help
If you want to learn more about fly fishing basics you can get more information at your local fisherman’s shop. Also, you can hire an expert to teach you how to perfect your cast and how to tie your own flies.
By: Wendy Pan
