Few activities relax and energize like a good fishing trip. If you’ve always fished from a boat, you may wonder how to shore fish and, therefore, add to your fishing skills. Learn what equipment and skills you need for success while fishing from shore.
Get the Right Equipment
You can’t fish without the right gear, and shore fishing requires slightly different equipment than basic rods, tackle, and other equipment. As with all fishing, you should first acquire your fishing license, then follow up by getting the best rods and gear.
Tailor your chosen fishing rod to where you’re planning to fish and what type of fish you’re hoping to catch. A good method to follow consists of using a lightweight rod until you know you have fish in the area, then switching to a heavier one. This technique lets you find fish without wearing your arms out while giving you the option to catch larger fish once you know they’re nearby.
Your rod won’t do any good without the right tackle and bait. Pack your tackle box with floats, hooks of various sizes, and tools like a knife and a set of pliers. For bait, you want to keep it covered up and away from the roving eyes of hungry birds and the heat of the sun.
Know Where to Go
Part of learning how to shore fish includes knowing the best fishing spots depending on where you choose to fish. For example, when fishing in a pond or lake, you can park yourself on the shore near docks, rock piles, or downed trees. Fish naturally seek out shady areas where they can feast on bugs, so look for structures that provide them with easy pickings.
If you want to fish in moving water like a river or stream, look for areas where the water has no current. Calmer waters attract game fish, so look for backwaters and coves. Shore anglers can also step into the shallows of a river to toss their line.
Fishing in the ocean requires a special saltwater fishing license, after which you can throw your line from piers, bridges, or even from the beach itself. Find pockets, tidal currents, or other areas on the beach for better luck while surf fishing.
Handy Tips and Tricks
Some easy tips and tricks to keep in mind for shore fishing include:
- Fish away from others to avoid tangling lines.
- Using shiny beads on your tackle can help you attract more fish.
- Fish can’t see feathers in the dark, so don’t use them when you’re night fishing.
- Try casting at different distances if you haven’t caught a fish at your current distance.
- Experiment with how you bring your line in. Go quickly, slowly, and reel from different angles.
Practice Shore Fishing in Fort Myers Beach, FL, with Lovers Key Adventures & Events
This guide should help you learn how to shore fish successfully. If you’re in Fort Myers Beach, FL, and want to find “shore fishing near me,” contact Lovers Key Adventures & Events at (239) 765-7788.
