What is a Retrieve Ratio and Why is it Important?

Retrieve ratios are a common term used for baitcasting fishing reels. However it can often be hard and confusing to find out what this means and why its important. As with any sport there is always some lingo that takes a while to understand. This article explains exactly what retrieve ratio’s are and why they are important.

When referring to retrieve ratios the number quoted is in relation to the gears on the reel – you will often see something like a 2:1, 6:1, 7:3 ratio quoted. The number on the left is referring to the number of times the spool wraps around the line and the number on the right is per revolution. A revolution is simply one full turn of the handle.

In the examples previously quoted, a 6:1 ratio would mean that the spool wraps around 6 times for one full turn of the handle. This indicates it is a fast reel. In a real world scenario it would mean that you could reel in a fish at the end of your line a lot quicker than some other reels – turn the handle once, and you have already retrieved 6 spools worth of line. Read the rest of this entry »

Buying Fishing Rods

If you have an interest in fishing, there are many different types of rods on the market. Buying them can be overwhelming as you look at rows and rows of rods. But it’s important to remember that there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration before putting money on a rod.

The first two things that you need to consider are what type of fishing will you be doing with the rod and how experienced are you? If this is going to be one of your first few times out fishing, you will probably want to choose a model that is specifically designed for beginners. Choose one that is easy to use, which is generally a spinning rod because they are easiest to use.

You also want to consider what poundage you need your rod to be able to handle. This is when the type of fishing you will be doing comes into consideration. If you’re looking to catch pike or salmon, you’ll need something that can handle Read the rest of this entry »

Fishing Boats

If you’re trolling the market for a fishing boat, you already know it’s a big investment. The last thing you want is to be all washed up in a holey mess because you bought a poor quality boat.

Fishing boats come in all sizes, from small motorboats for inland lake fishing, to small whalers, to yachts designed for cruising the deep seas. If you want to prove yourself as a hardcore fisherman, or fisherwoman, one of the best ways is by investing in a fishing boat. Be sure before you buy, and make the right investment in your new vessel.

Owning a boat can be great fun, but there are hidden costs to consider before you buy. Basic upkeep fees can net a lot of cash. You need to keep your boat clean and fueled. Unless you have your own marina or garage, you’ll have to pay for parking and storage. Dry-docking your boat during the off-season will cost more than a nominal fee. Even if you plan to moor the boat under a tarp in the backyard, there is the transportation to consider. T Read the rest of this entry »

Why Night Fishing?

I love night fishing. Most of the times it’s because I don’t get to go out and fish during the day because of my work, but now there’s more to it than just the convenience. I’ve observed that night fishing offers you the same conditions as daytime, but with generally better results. Sometimes I can swear the fishing conditions are even better during the night, since there are fewer anglers to compete with for a good fishing spot, and less noise as well.

I’ve also come to realize that when you find a good fishing spot during the day, coming back to it at night will net you even more fish. Although I can’t explain why, but the fish just seem to bite more at night. One little drawback though is that it’s harder to see your line, but since you’re getting a lot of fish, it’s worth the effort. For this reason, perhaps, I’ve seen a lot of daytime fishermen turn to night fishing. When I asked one why, he just said it makes him look good because he catches more fish that way!

If you want to try night fishing, I say full speed ahea Read the rest of this entry »

A Fishing Guide Made Easy

Fishing is considered a favorite past time among Americans. A majority of Americans have had the ultimate fishing experience. Fishing is the activity of catching species that live and breathe underwater.

Today more advanced fishing techniques were developed to make the activity more exciting and challenging. Before 2005, all fishermen had to do was hit a macro to catch a fish. Today there is a more developed fishing system; it involves fighting a fish to reel it in.
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Fishing Safety Reminders

Fishing is a relaxing hobby and even more fun to do when done with members of the family and loved ones during a short vacation or even over the weekends. It may seem not a very physical sport for most people, but similar to any other outdoor activities, fishing still requires safety. Nobody should ever compromise safety.

Primarily, before going out fishing, make sure that your outfit is just right for the activity. The weather should always be put in to account because you can never tell if the sun is going to be too hot or just right all day long. A sunny day may turn cloudy or even rainy so, it’s advisable to always bring an extra something along. If it’s the rainy season, always bring anything that can protect you from getting chilled.
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Using The Right Fishing Pole

The right fishing pole is necessary for you to be able to catch fish. Poles that are too long will not offer you enough control over the fishing line. Poles that are too short may snap easily when you are trying to reel in a fish. The right pole is usually determined by your height and the types of fish you want to catch. Larger fish will require thicker fishing line and a thicker fishing pole in order to stand the tension placed on the line.

Common types of fishing rods include fly fishing rods, ultra-light fishing rods, carbon fiber rod, spin casting rods, spinning rods, and ice fishing rods. Each of these rods is available online and can be purchased along with other items that will enhance your fishing experience. If you have never used any of these rods, you should first determine which type of fishing you want to and then find a rod that matches it.

Fly rods are smaller and do not have spinners or reels. Because you need to cast your line out and bring it in slowly in order to attract fish, a reel is not necessary. Fly fishing is difficult to master and not for those who want to catch a lot of fish at one time Read the rest of this entry »

Buying a Fishing Reel

When buying a fishing reel, it’s most important to know what kind of reel you will need depending on what kind of fishing you will be doing. There are mainly three different types of reels and knowing the basics of each will be a great help when going to look at reels.

The closed spin cast reel is the most popular type of reel on the market. This is probably because it is also the easiest type of reel to use, which makes it really great for beginners or those that don’t wish to spend a lot of time on their fishing line. This reel keeps the line fully enclosed, causing less tangles in the line. It is also very easy to cast due to the fact that this action is completed simply with the push of a back button. This type of reel is best used when fishing for smaller fish. They are very light and not that expensive, either.

An open face spinning reel is for those that have some experience in fishing and can manage the reel with little trouble. Experienced fishermen seem to prefer these types of reels because they have more control over the fishing line. They are easier to use than bait casters but are still very accurate. The drawback to this type of reel is that they c Read the rest of this entry »

Fresh Caught Fish Cooking Preparation

To maintain the delicate flavor of a newly caught freshwater or saltwater fish, this must be handled properly to avoid spoilage. Not to mention preserving the fish with pleasing odor. There are ways to properly prepare and maintain the quality just after the catch of the fish into a sumptuous fishmeal. Check out the tips below:

1) As soon as the fish lands avoid any contact with hard surfaces to prevent bruising. It should be washed immediately by hosing or bucket rinsing in order to remove the slime and possible bacteria that cause spoilage. Never use water from close proximity marinas, municipal or industrial discharges. To make sure, always use potable water instead.
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Fishing Kit Basics

Before going deeper into the technicalities, make sure that a fishing license is secured. To be an amateur fisherman there are basic pieces of fishing equipment needed to complete your exciting journey in the fishing world. Knowing the line type and matching the right rod and reel to the fishing technique is just basic common sense. Match these tools appropriately and expect a more enjoyable experience for a more comfortable fishing. There are several things that causes the reel to turn into a bird’s nest, don’t worry, even experienced fishermen encounter this every now and then.
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