How To Fish
Fishing can be as basic as a string and hook; or fishing can be expensive rods and reels with exotic baits. The most important thing to remember is you don't need to have the best equipment to catch fish. The important thing is to get out and enjoying the river. If you are a beginner and want to get out just find a long stick and attach some fishing line. Attach a small hook and put a worm on it. Go out to local pond or stream and see what you can catch. Once you begin to take fishing more seriously you can find all the necessary information below.
What You Need
A fishing license. Before you go out fishing you must purchase a fishing license, unless you are under the age of 16. To view Maryland's full list of rules and regulations you can visit their page.
A fishing rod and reel. Most bait and tackle shops will gladly assist you in finding a rod and reel that will accommodate your needs. A general rule of thumb is to purchase a rod that is as long as you are tall. Many beginners purchase a rod and reel combo from the store.
A tackle box. An anglers success depends on his tackle box. It is important to have a well stocked tackle box because you never know what you might need. Anglers should replace lines, lures, and tackle in their tackle box as items fatigue.
Fishing line, hooks and tackle. If you purchase a rod and reel combo it should come spooled with line. If your reel doesn't have any line there should be a spot on the rod with the recommended line. The type of hook and tackle that you use depends on the fish you are targeting. Beginner anglers should invest in a variety of hooks and tackle to keep in their tackle box.
Getting the right bait or lure. Choosing the correct bait or lure can be intimidating to the beginner angler. Bait and tackle shops are filled with many different options. It is best to get a wide range of baits and lures. Ask the store employee if they recommend anything. Your target species will dictate what you need.
Catching Fish
Setting up your rod. Tie on your hook with an improved clinch knot. You then want to attach your sinkers and bobbers. For beginners it is best to use a bigger bobber so you can see it easier in the water and know when you have a fish.
Baiting your hook. You now want to put your hook through your bait or lure. How you bait the hook depends on what you are using. It is a general rule that you want the hook to go through the bait multiple times.
Casting your line. You now want to pull the rod back over your shoulder then throw it forward while releasing the line. This can be difficult for beginner anglers, but practice makes perfect. Below is a video showing the proper technique.
Removing your fish. Now that you have caught a fish you want to get it off the hook. It is best to hold the fish with a rag and work the hook out of its mouth. Look to see if the fish has teeth. If it does you should use a pair of pliers to get the hook out. If you are not keeping the fish you should get it back to the water as quickly as possible.
