Choosing a Fishing Kit

If you are new to fishing, walking down the tackle shop aisles can be overwhelming. But don’t despair, even seasoned anglers with countless tales to tell had to start somewhere. The trick is to focus on the basics and choose a kit that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

A fishing rod and reel is the foundation of any good fishing kit. There are several different types available, depending on your preferred style and species of fish. You also need to have a suitable line, bobbers and lures. For your safety, it is important to wear protective clothing and carry a valid fishing license.

The right fishing line will make all the difference. Choosing a line that is too light could result in it breaking when you are reeling in a big catch, or it might be so thin it can’t take the strain. In order to avoid these problems, select a line that has a strength rating (often referred to as a “test”) that matches the weight of the species you are targeting.

Fishing hooks are another essential piece of fishing equipment. You should have a box of a variety of hook sizes on hand, especially if you plan to fish with live bait such as worms or grubs. Also consider having a set of pliers and a line cutter on hand. You don’t want to have to rely on other people to borrow these items, but it is a good idea to have your own set of tools handy in case you need them.

One of the most important aspects of any fishing kit is a good pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun. The sunglasses should have UVA and UVB protection to prevent eye damage from the harsh rays of the sun. The hat should have a brim that is big enough to keep the sun off your face and neck, but not too big to interfere with your view.

You will also need a fishing bag that is large enough to store your rod, reel, hooks and other gear, but not so big that it will be difficult to carry around. Spiderwire offers a shoulder bag that is comfortable to carry all day long, with enough room for all your gear and a few extras.

A gill net is another key component of any survival fishing kit. While you should always check the legality of using gill nets in your area, they are a highly effective way to catch fish and can be very helpful in a survival situation.

Lastly, it is essential to have a float or bobber on your line to help you know when a fish bites. A bobber is a small float that dangles on your line above the hook, and when it gets hit by a fish, it will rise underwater to alert you that you have a bite. A float can be made from any number of materials, but most are crafted from foam or plastic.