There’s no better feeling than catching your supper with a hook and line. Here’s a quick guide to help you improve your rod skills.
Be prepared
80% of successful fishing is down to preparation. Do you chose a rod or a hand line? At a basic level, you can make do with a hand line but it can be difficult to wind in. Where possible, use a rod. A rod deigned for trolling is best and if you have no room for a full size rod, use a rod designed for kayak as they are more compact.
Top tip: When using a rod, tie it on with a bungee or a line, or use a rod holder.
Oh and in case you were wondering … 10% is skill and the other 10% is pure luck!
Best bait
If you’re only out for the day, live bait is an option. Small crabs, or peeler crabs, or squid cut in to strips is also ideal. Or, once you’ve caught some small fish, like mackerel, cut them up and use them to bait for larger fish.
Top tip: Use fish heads for the most effective bait.
Go fish
Sandbanks, rocks, ledges and wrecks all hold fish. Unfortunately they are also dangerous for sailing vessels. A man made fort is a good are to fish, especially in a good current. The best places to fish are on changes of depth. Another good indicator of fish near the waters surface, is diving gannets and other sea birds. Fish tend to feed at dawn and dusk, so it makes sense that these are the best time to catch them.
Top tip: For the best fishing spots, ask an expert. Talk to a local fisherman or tackle shop staff.
Keep it clean
In order to keep your deck and cock pit clean when filleting and scaling your catch, have a bucket ready. Some fisherman pour alcohol into the gills. This is a quick and easy way to dispatch larger fish. For smaller fish, a blow across the back of the head is easier.
Top tip: Keep a chopping board on board!
Top fish
Everyone will have their own idea of the best fish to catch. Beginners will want to go for:
- Fish that are likely to bite easily and not be too hard to reel in
- A fish that is not too fussy about it’s bait and not shy about coming forward for a feed
- The kind of fish that isn't scared off by unusual movement