Start from Where You Are

Some of my earliest memories of fishing with my late Dad was at a man-made lake in Virginia (Lake Anna). When I first started going there, it was definitely back in the day, before the nice homes by shore that you see now. I think we started going there in the late 70s. It wasn't fancy, we stayed at a camp ground in our Swinger RV, and took out our 18 foot Cobia bowrider outboard for leisure boating and fishing. I think we may have even started with a john boat...I loved those Summers.

Anyhow, I didn't know much about fishing then, not like I'm an expert now, but I know a lot more. One of the best things about the internet is being able to research items BEFORE you go shopping at the bait and tackle - no one wants to look like a rookie.

So, for the experienced, you may know more than me, but for the beginner, there are some things you should know. For example, the most important piece of equipment is the rod. For rookies, a simple rod and bait will suffice. The type of material used and the features it has is not important. What matters is getting used to the the feel of the rod and having fun. There is always time to specialize and get fancy with your tackle.

There are several types of rods - they are made from wood, fiberglass and carbon fiber. It is important to know before entering the store or ordering online the kind of fishing you'll be doing and under what conditions - from a boat, from the shore. Feeling the rod’s handle in the palm of the hand and practice casting with a rod will test how flexible and how easy it is to use.

The proper length depends on the kind of fish and type of bait that will be used for fishing. A 4 inch to 6 inch rod is adequate for light bait and small fish (spinners and Smallmouth for example). Since larger fish (Big Daddy Salmon) will require larger bait that usually requires one to cast in a longer distance, a rod that is 6 inches or longer will be needed.

There is no age limit for anyone to start fishing. Fishing takes a lot of practice before being able to excel at it. One can purchase a new fishing pole either online, at a local store or another way to get started - buy a second hand pole on eBay before deciding to buy a brand new one.

Any way you start, it's the beginning of something great.

Smallmouth

One of my favorite ways to fish is with spinners for Smallmouth while wading in a river (like the Shenandoah near Front Royal, VA). However, I’ve also fished for Smallmouth from the shore - under bridges and from the bank. The problem with fishing on the shore is tangles – tangles in trees and sometimes your fishing partner gets a hook in the shirt – or lip! Hooks caught in underwater hazards like submerged roots and trees are easier to untangle when you’re wading, so that might be something you want to try.

For the new angler, when I use the term "spinner", I'm referring to a lure that is a small blade, which rotates on a spindle when being reeled in or taken back through the water. It’s allure is that gives off a flash as light is being reflected on the revolving blade, characterizing the bait fish’s scales and movements. It’s very exciting to see a bass stalk and strike the spinner in clear water.

Most of my Smallmouth fishing is catch and release. I don't like to keep them on stringers too long and I usually try to fish all day and I'm on the move.

It's that time...

I'm from DC, well actually Fairfax County, VA. I was born in and grew up in Alexandria and spent my Springs fishing for nasty channel cats and carp that want to rip your arm off on the muddy banks of the Potomac. I never ate the catfish, wouldn't dare. Some people do - that's scary. The carp look like something coughed up by son with a chest cold.

Anyhow, it's Spring and it's time to throw a line. It's time to get your license and untangle your line and tackle. Whether you bass fish with spinners in freshwater rivers - man, I love that - or fly fish for salmon in Alaska or in Michigan - this blog is your spot. If you're new to fishing, that's great too. Outdoorsmen and women are a good lot and those who respect one another and our natural world are welcome to add their thoughts and experiences.

That's the first post...welcome to all. You'll hear from me again soon. In the mean time, please share your upcoming fishing plans for the Spring and Summer (and Fall).

Peace.

Ted