So you want to start fishing…
A beginners guide on what to do
Want to start fishing but you’re not quite sure where to begin? This is a short guide on how to get started!
Step 1.
Fishing license
Fishing Licenses are required by the Department of Natural Resources to maintain populations and ensure everyone abides the law.
You can buy a license just about anywhere, check your local gas stations or stores!
“But wait, what kind of license do I want?”
Depending on where you live, there may be different kinds. Check your location first, but for this purpose, we will use Michigan laws.
The most popular type is Annual All-Species. This is great for fishing without worrying about the specific type of fish you catch. “All-Species” also falls under amphibians, crustaceans, and reptiles within specific Jurisdiction
Depending on location, they run for about $26 residents and $76 for nonresidents
There is also an Daily All-Species which is a 24hr pass that runs for $10s. This is a great alternative if you have out of town guests or know you’re only going to fish that one day.
The Senior Annual is for any Michigan Residents 65 or older and are able to be purchased for $11.
Note! There is also combination licensing for Hunting and Fishing, please refer to your states requirements if you are interested in these.
The Million Dollar Question:
What fishing rod should I use?
There are many good options to choose from, but for the purpose of this, we are going to choose a basic one for an example. Fishing rods can be purchased at your local Meijers, Walmart, or Dicks Sporting Goods. For more options, Cabellas and Bass Pro Shop have a lot more variety, however, these also come at a more costly price.
Ugly Stik GX2
I personally use an Ugly Stik GX2 which is a 6ft Spinning Rod. This is typically a good beginner fishing rod and costs around $60, however there are much cheaper alternatives that are available as well.
What is a spinning wheel?
Most anglers use a spinning wheel, due to the versatile and easy use. This type of wheel is generally good for any condition, and due to the open face, it is easy to find issues within your line such as a snag or tangle.
What is a closed wheel?
A closed wheel / spincast rod has a simpler design and uses a button to grab and release the line. These types of fishing rods are typically used by children. Although the closed design helps with being tangle resistant, it also comes at the cost of limited performance and less durability. However, the costs for these rods are also usually the cheapest option.
Step 3.
What about bait?
The easiest bait you can use are worms! Most gas stations and stores will sell live bait and worms are the most common bait you can use. They are also the easiest to use and can have the simplest set up being a hook, worm, and bobber.
This set up is great for beginners to use to learn how it looks and feels to have a fish on the line. Most freshwater fish eat worms, such as the common Blue Gill, Large & Small Mouth Bass, and other panfish.
