Trout Fishing Tips and Tricks
Trout fishing is a world all its own, and like many other worlds, it has its own tips and tricks. The following are some tips that can get you hooked up with a fighting trout and put a big smile on your face. Some you may use occasionally, some all the time, and some you may not use all. But, all are good advice and can make the difference between a great day of fishing or coming home empty handed.
Use the correct rod and reel for the occasion. If you are fishing for trout in a stream you want to use lightweight gear. A spinning rod and reel, not a fly fishing rod, may be the best option for bait casting for trout in a lake. Trout are not usually really large fish, so 4 to 6 pound test line will usually suffice.
Practice casting before you get to where you will be fishing. Pick a spot some distance away on a lawn or other open area and try to land your lure near it. Load up your fly rod with the correct line and practice letting it out and positioning your fly right to where you want it to go. Get to know your rod and reel intimately before going fishing to avoid problems later.
If you will be moving around as you fish, you may want to wear a fishing vest instead of carrying around a tackle box. Stuff the pockets with the essentials you will need and nothing more. Traveling light allows you to be stealthier, and thus spook the fish less.
If you do use a tackle box, keep it well organized to protect your lures and enable efficient usage. Smaller containers inside can be used to keep similar lures, flies and tackle from intermingling. Some items, such as rubber worms, can melt when exposed to other objects.
Wear clothing that blends in with the local background if stream fishing to lessen the chance of being spotted by fish. Dress in layers so that garments may be removed to cool down or others added to warm up. Waterproof shoes are a must if you will be walking in or around bodies of water.
A hat and sunglasses will help avoid glare and will allow you to see fish in the water better. Sunscreen will prevent sunburn and bug spray will keep the biting insects at bay.
When arriving at a fishing location, take a few minutes to read the water. This is especially helpful in river and stream fishing. Locate the riffs, runs and pools where fish will congregate at different times of day. Notice any submerged logs and rocks and other cover where fish will likely hang out.
If fishing from shore, work the areas where overhanging trees and undercut banks create cover for fish. River bends and other areas of fairly calm water next to faster moving water will often hold fish.
Trout have very keen eyesight, so avoid letting them see you. In streams, approach from downstream if possible, as the fish may be looking upstream for floating objects of food coming downstream.
Move through the water as quietly and noiselessly as possible. Fish are very sensitive to vibrations in the water and may be easily spooked by a fisherman splashing around.
Trout like cool, clear, well-oxygenated water such as creek mouths, rapids and areas with vegetation. The pools below rapids are very oxygenated spots. Trout will be nearer the surface when the water is cooler and deeper when the weather and the water are warmer.
Try dry flies for fishing the surface and wet flies for deeper down.
When bringing in a trout, try to place the net below the fish and lift up to net him. The fish will be spooked if the net is placed before his eyes or if it hits his tail.
If you catch a trout and plan to release it, try to touch the fish as little as possible to prevent damaging the slime coating on the fish. Hold the fish upright in the water until it revives from the catching ordeal and allow it to swim away under its own power.
Thoroughly clean your gear before storing to prevent mold and mildew from forming and ruining anything. Lightly oil your reels to insure smooth operation the next time.
And, some of the most important trout fishing tips and tricks – always practice fisherman’s etiquette. Treat other fishermen as you would like to be treated. Avoid loud noises and talking which will spook the fish and disturb the peace and quiet of the setting. Keep your distance from other fishermen so you do not snag lines or impede the landing of a fish.
Always have the proper license and follow the local rules of fish and wildlife management. Obtain permission to fish if fishing on private property and leave the property in as good or better shape than when you first found it.
Finally, respect the other fishermen around you. Fishing is a very enjoyable way to spend some time and will continue to be so if everyone respects the people and property they come in contact with.
