#1 Basic Research
The biggest mistake you can make when fishing, is going in blind. All fish are different! Some fish like saltwater instead of freshwater, some fish like the warm shallows instead of the cold deep water, and some fish are hungrier in the morning instead of the evening. Give your future fishing spot a quick Google search and find out what type of fish you’ll be on the lookout for.
#2 Get The Right Tackle
If it’s your first time fishing, head to your local Whitsundays fishing tackle store and fill up your tackle box up with all the essentials like:
- Fishing line
- Hooks
- Floaters
- Sinkers
- Lures & soft plastics
- Needlenose pliers
- Filleting knife
- Torch
- First aid supplies
Depending on where you choose to fish and what type of fish you’re looking to catch, you may need more specialised equipment. Speak to one of the experts at the tackle store and they should be able to help.
#3 Which Bait Is Best
Using the wrong bait can be the difference in having a good day out or going home empty handed, and again this comes down to research. Use this guide to determine what bait to use for which species and remember if the bait isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change!
#4 Play The Waiting Game
Fishing should be a relaxing activity and it requires a lot of time, patience and dedication. If at first you don’t catch a fish, don’t get frustrated. Stick to your guns and the fish will eventually come. When it comes to fishing, catching a fish is just a bonus!
Remember to keep noise to a minimum while you’re fishing, keeping a close eye on your line for any bites and pull hard to hook your fish when you get the opportunity. Be sure to check your line every 20 minutes or so, to make sure your bait and tackle is still in order.
#5 Get Advice & Learn From The Best
Fishing is a skill that is easy to learn and difficult to master. If you’re fishing in a new spot, nothing beats a bit of local knowledge. Whether it’s your local bait and tackle store or a local fisherman, they may be able to point you in the direction of the best fishing spots and advise you on what bait is best.
If you’re ever travelling around Australia fishing, be sure to check out some of these spots:
