1. Where and When You Fish
In recreational fishing, many of the rules depend on what state you are fishing and where in that state you drop a line. Each state has its own fishing rules as it pertains to catch limit and size of a particular fish. It also depends on where in the state you are fishing, and the type of fish you trying to catch. Specific rivers and coasts have particular types of fish at different times of the year.
2. Lure Versus Live-Bait Fishing
Recreational fishing tends to fall into one of two broad categories of fishing: Those who prefer live bait and those who swear by artificial lures. Lures are much more common on lakes and rivers, and live bait is more prevalent on the coasts in saltwater environments. Live-bait fishing is also used less in catch-and-release fishing situations. If you are fishing with bait, there is a greater chance that the fish will die on the hook. So, if you are near or over the legal limit, you may want to switch to lure fishing in order to avoid the needless death of the fish.
3. Salt or Fresh Water Fishing
Salt-water and fresh-water fishing are two very different types of fishing that require different techniques and have different sets of rules. First, your equipment is going to be different with salt-water fishing, requiring sturdier and more powerful equipment due to the larger size of fish and the greater currents and depths of saltwater. There are also different regulations on the type and number of each fish you can catch in one day. With regard to technique, salt-water fishing uses a longer cast and reels in the cast slower, whereas in fresh water the casts are shorter, and you reel them in more often and at a quicker pace.
4. Catch and Length Limits
A novice may not realize that each type of fish has catch and length limits imposed on the recreational angler. You really need to call the local fish and wildlife office to find out exactly what these limits are for a specific season and the type of fish in the area you are fishing.
5. Get a License
Even if you are fishing on private lands, in some states, you still need a fishing license. Every state requires that you obtain a license for their state, specifically. For frequent recreational fishing, some states offer a lifetime license. This can be a good option if you love to fish, but do not to go get a license every year. Most bait shops and convenience stores near regular fishing locales offer the ability to purchase a license. If you don't fish that much, they usually offer weekend or one day licenses. Wherever you fish, you will need a license because the fines are substantial for those caught fishing without one.
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