Fishing tackle can include any and all of the gear used for sport fishing, including pole, reel, creel, net, lures and "hook, line and sinker." Types of fishing include fresh-water fly fishing in streams for trout, trolling with a spinning lure by boat, deep-sea fishing with "chum" or live bait and cast fishing from shore over either fresh or salt water.
Each mode of fishing has its own types of fishing tackle with proponents of each variety. Wiley fishing enthusiasts will sometimes say the differences between traditional bamboo rods, carved wooden plugs or hand-tied flies and horsehair line all the way to modern composite poles, shiny lures, monofilament and even sonar "fish finders" aren't important. More important is studying the habits of the fish sought after, their favorite local habitats, times for feeding and favored food.
What to Look for
Like the realtor's mantra, "location, location, location" is the key to successful fishing. The local varieties of fish, the area's best spots and favored lures will differ from place to place. Still, a few basic flies, casting lures and a folding rod and reel can add zest to a hiking or canoeing expedition and variety to the menu. Make sure to comply with local fishing licenses and rules to keep the activity both pleasant and legal.
Types of lures include spinning, jig (with a bobbing or jerking motion), surface lures, spoon shaped lures, surface flies (wet and dry) and plugs. Each have their own proponents as to how much the action of the lure imitates the sport fishes favored food in the wild. Two or three of each of the most popular types will allow an angler to explore what seems most appealing. The number of pounds "test" of fishing line is the breaking point of the fishing line and is gauged to the type and size fish aimed for. The play or action of the rod used adds to the enjoyment of the angler by transmitting the feel of the fish fighting at the end of the line to the angler.
Common Pitfalls
Filling up a tackle box with every possible lure before trying any is one sure cure for the fishing bug. A way to more likely continue with an interest in fishing is to combine the type of fishing with other interests. A hiker may connect best with fly fishing local streams, while a canoeist might find casting and trolling a good complement to an already avid interest.
A medium priced rig with a few lures of the type of fishing to complement the outdoor sport already being enjoyed may keep fishing tackle use from becoming a cast-off hobby.
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