10 Tips For Big Catch Fishing

By: T. Lee

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Fishermen should learn these 10 tips for big catch fishing in hopes of realizing the dream of the ‘Big Catch’.  Fishing has gone from a simple survival tool to a huge worldwide sport. Sport fishing is hugely competitive, humans love competition and are always looking for tips on how to catch the big fish.  Millions of dollars are spent each year on fishing equipment, clothing, boats, lures, contests and vacations but when all is said and done it truly only takes common sense and some equipment to catch big fish. Keep these tips for big catch fishing in mind when you plan your next fishing trip.

  1. Know what kind of fish you want to catch. You can’t catch a tuna in the lake around the corner.  Peruse the Internet or your local library to research what kind of fish you’d like to catch. Ask yourself if you want to be able to eat the fish you catch or have your big catch mounted on the wall for all to see.
  2. Know the habits of the big catch fish you are looking for. Research your fish and answer a few questions like these. What time do the fish feed? What do they eat? Are they quick to act or slow to take bait?
  3. Know where to find the fish you want to catch. This is a simple tip but one that gets overlooked. Just because you know that blue fish live in the ocean that does mean that you can find them in any ocean or at any depth.
  4. Have the proper equipment. Big catch fishing requires heavier equipment that can handle the weight and pull of a big fish. Ask a salesperson at your local sporting goods store what equipment like rods, reels and line are best for the weight range of the fish you want to catch. Also consider what clothing to wear. Choose loose fitting clothing and hats that protect you from the sun.
  5. Have the proper bait. It’s hard to catch a fish if you don’t know what it eats. Live bait works the best but fishing lures are also very successful when used properly. The fishing dock usually sells bait and lures, ask what’s the popular choice for the fish you want to catch. 
  6. Bring food for you not just for the fish. Don’t forget to feed yourself. Bring pre-prepared calorie dense food that’s easy to eat. Sandwiches, and fruit like apples are great choices. Don’t forget to take plenty of fresh water to drink. Please do not drink alcohol and drive a boat or fish you could hurt yourself or others. 
  7. Timing is everything. Be aware, be alert and you won’t miss that crucial moment for reeling in the big one or letting it escape when you can’t find the net. 
  8. Bring a container for evacuation. If you can’t pee in the pool you certainly don’t want to pee in the place you are fishing. Fish avoid ammonia, which is a by-product of urine. Also, urine destroys the pH balance in the water and fish are very sensitive to pH balances.
  9. Silence is golden. Fish shy away from noise and vibration like boat motors and people yelling. They can’t find the food they are looking for if there is too much activity in the water. They will look for a quieter place to feed.
  10. Patience. Good things come to those who wait. Part of the joy of fishing is that you get to be out in nature, away from the usual distractions where you can hear yourself think while waiting for the fish to bite. 

Fishing is a fun activity that requires a little preparation on your part but the benefits far outweigh the time and cost.  Using these few tips will help you achieve your dream of catching the big fish and maybe even reconnect with yourself and nature.

Posted on: Feb. 10, 2011