The Hobby of Fishing
July 11, 2022
Mountaineer News
The Outdoor Specialists
Why Fishing?
Peaceful activity
Quiet time
The enjoyment of listening to nature; the lake, river, or ocean and the birds and other wildlife
Time with Mother Nature
Thinking time
The reward of eating the catch of the day
The challenge of catching fish or catching the biggest fish in the lake
Fishing competitions
It is gainfully relaxing and renewing of spirit
The satisfaction of outwitting the fish
Being with fishing buddies and enjoying the day
It’s an affordable hobby
Discovering the best fishing spot
Traveling to different states or countries
Excellent family activity
Great conversations with family members or friends
Learning to develop patience
The thrill of hooking a big fish and fighting to land it
Not knowing what you will catch
Fishing Sites
As a general rule the fish which you are catching will end up in the frying pan and are therefore are called pan fish. These pan fish like to swim in areas which are near the shoreline.
Are you fishing in a lake or pond?
The fish can be found under lily pads, among reeds and weeds, or hiding under trees, large rocks, and the underbrush. They are seeking these areas for food and protection from their predators.
Are you fishing in a stream?
Check under hedges, trees, ledges, rocks under a gentle current, and deep water.
Are you fishing from a boat dock?
Sunfish, large mouth bass, and Bluegill are usually found around wooden boat docks. Do cast fishing along the sides of the boat dock as well as deep waters.
Fish are no different than human beings. They like to provide themselves with safe shelter, easy swimming facilities, and access to food sources.
The Best Time of the Year to Fish?
Fish during the spring months when they have awaken from the winter and in the fall when they are preparing for the winter months.
During the summer and winter months they will hide from the summer heat or the extreme cold.
The Best Time of the Day to Fish
Fish an hour before or after a sunrise. Once the sun and the heat of the day start the fish are hiding.
The next best time is a couple of hours before and after sunset.
Night fishing is at its best when the moon is big and bright.
How To Discover A Favorite Fishing Spot
Wherever you can catch the type of fish you want and catch the most fish in the shortest amount of time.
Tips and Guidelines:
What fish are running and are they the type of fish that you want to catch?
Acquaint yourself with the habits of the selected fish.
Equip your self with the right fishing equipment.
Live baits or fishing lures should meet the fish’s interest.
Check water conditions, food availability, time of day, tide levels, weather conditions
Observe the results of your successful fishing efforts.
Most fishermen that I talk to say that after you find your favorite fishing hole, do not tell anyone; enjoy your personal secret.
Fishing Baits
There are 3 common pan fish; catfish, bass and perch. The baits which can be used are:
Chicken liver or gut cuttings
Baby crayfish
Worms - night crawlers and red wigglers
Minnows which are caught in the same waters where you will be fishing.
Dough bait purchased or make your own.
Corn kernel, snails, crickets, bees, and other insects.
Pork rind
Spin casting rod with your favorite artificial flies or better yet use the insects which are common to the fishing spot.
Overall, fish will eat anything. Check your local fishing spot to see what their natural food is and use it. Fish are attracted to scent and movement. Live bait moves. If fishing with still bait, move your fishing line to create activity.
Live bait can be purchased at the local sporting good shops, or from your backyard, refrigerator, or the fishing spot. Still bait can be created from foodstuffs found in the pantry.
Time of Day
What kind of fish are you planning on catching? Know the best time of the day to guarantee a catch.
Check on the time of day and month to fish for your favorite catch-of-the-day.
Be certain that you are using the correct bait, hook and fishing pole.
After you catch the fish you utilize a fish storage line, a bucket of ice or a cooler.
Decide if you will clean the fish on location or at home. Are you a gardener? Use discarded parts of fish for fertilizer.
Wear sunblock lotion, a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing. Wear appropriate non-skid soles on boats to avoid slipping and falling.
Mosquito repellent may be needed.
Pack cool drinks, sandwiches, and snacks. I recommend salty snacks and drink water to avoid dehydration.
Benefits of Fishing
Fishing is a fun hobby which can be done by anyone.The overall requirements are enjoying the art of relaxing in the quiet outdoors and the patience to wait for the fish to bite.
People have many fish stories to tell. There is always the story about the "big one" that got away. Or stories and evidence of the large fish catch.
There is physical exercise for the angler. Your arms will be used to cast the line and to handle the net bringing the fish in before it chances to lose its grip on the hook. Depending on the shoreline there may be some walking along the shore or wading into the creek, river, or ocean.
Fishing is mentally relaxing. Enjoy the fresh air, the quietness of the environment except for occasional bird chirps or the rush or gentle wave splashes of water.
Fishing is an exercise in patience. Whether you choose to sit or stand there will be a waiting time for the fish to take the bait. This patience awards you with relaxation. Fishing is a slow process; a getaway hobby from rushing or meeting deadlines.
Fishing is appealing to parents, couples, singles, and children. Parents, grandparents, and couples are able to share hours of conversation and bonding without distractions.
Everyone will find fishing to be affordable, easy to learn, and a very pleasant quiet hobby.
West Virginia Fishing Licenses
For more information on license/permit requirements to fish here in the Mountain State, simply TAP HERE.
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