Catch Big Fish

The first question in every fisherman’s mind is how to catch big fish. Stories of the ‘big one’ that got away are infamous in the fishing community. Fishermen have a few reasons for wanting to catch big fish; the first reason is you have to throw the small ones back, the second reason is for the simple thrill of catching a big fish, and the third reason is to win a tournament trophy or money.

To catch big fish, you will need:

• Rod and reel
• Bait
• Lures and hooks
• Extra fishing line
• Fishing net
• Fishing knife
• Creel or Cooler to keep fish in
• First aid kit
• Boat (optional)
• Gloves (optional)
• Depth Finder, if using a boat (optional)

1. Chose the kind of fish you want to catch. Look at a local fishing guide for fish types in your area. If you live in an area with lots of streams then trout or salmon might be a good choice. If you live where there are big lakes, then bass or catfish can be considered.
2. Know where to find the fish you’ve chosen. If you want to catch big fish like bass you don’t head to the ocean. A little research in this area goes a long way. Ask your local fish and game commission what fish can be found in your area. You can also search their website for test net results. Test net results are actually nettings and recordings of the type and size of fish caught.
3. Learn what kind of rod, reel and line you need. If you already have fishing gear is it heavy enough to hold up to big fish? Catching big fish requires a heavier rod and stronger fishing line. Make sure that your equipment is in good working order and that you change the fishing line frequently.
4. Know what kind of bait to use. Don’t assume that all fish eat and are attracted to worms or Velveeta cheese. Fish won’t bite if they don’t recognize the food you are offering. Ask your local bait shop what the most popular bait is. As a rule, live bait works better than lures. It is best to have a few choices of lures and bait with you when you go out to catch big fish.
5. Think like a fish. Know the habits of fish you want to catch. Do they stay along the shore area? Do they tend to hide on the bottom in the plants? What time of day do they feed? Being prepared with this knowledge can ensure a successful fishing trip.
6. Go where the action is. Look around at the other fishermen and go where the ones are that are catching fish. Be polite in asking if you can cast your line where they are.
7. Use a depth finder. If you are fishing in a large lake, a depth finder can be quite helpful in locating fish. Depth finders can show the bottom of the lake's structure and show where the fish are. Most fishermen won’t leave home without one.
8. Be prepared to fish. Take all the supplies you need before you begin to fish. Take an extra rod for double rod fishing or in case of malfunctions. Take extra fishing line. Don’t forget to take food for you, plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat and a first aid kit.
9. Patience. The most successful fishermen have the patience to wait to catch big fish. If the area you are fishing in isn’t producing results after thirty minutes, then you can consider changing locations. Consider that fish below you sense the motion of the boat or you walking though the water. Give them time to go out of alarm mode and relax into doing their usual fish activities.

Following these guidelines will help you catch big fish. Know your fish, be prepared and use common sense when out on the water and you’ll be well on your way to showing your friends the fish you caught instead of telling a fish tale about the one that got away.