If you are new to the sport of fishing, here are some of the basic rules of fishing. Like other forms of hunting, fishing involves both your environment and those around you. Be respectful of every one and every thing. You can responsibly enjoy this treasured pastime in several ways.
Fishing is an ancient practice. It dates back nearly 10,000 years. A number of various techniques and traditions have been used during fishing’s progression. Modern technological developments have changed the way people fish, but many of the same rules, regulations, and social norms involving fishing remain.
Always practice good stewardship of our waterways when you are fishing. Remember that these waterways were around thousands of years before you and will remain long after we are gone. You can make a conscious decision to leave the areas in which people fish in better condition than when you found it. Take care of our lakes, rivers, and other waterways so that others will enjoy these areas for years to come. Practicing certain behaviors will ensure that you are taking good care of the places where people fish.
Never litter when you are fishing. Always bring a trash bag or other receptacle to use for the collection of your trash. You can easily deposit it in a nearby trash receptacle, or hen you return to the dock. Dump your refuse in properly assigned dumping stations instead of tossing it in the water. You do not need to spend much time figuring out the many ways in which this hurts the environment.
As you fish, always use the correct type of bait and fishing gear. Certain areas allow for certain bait and gear. You will also encounter limits on the number, size, and kind of fish that you can keep. Become familiar with what these limits are and pay attention to them. Your local tackle store is a great resource for what’s biting, and what the fish are biting. Do not wait until you are at your fishing spot to search for what is allowed and what is not. Check with your destination before you head out on your fishing trip to see what the local regulations allow. If you plan on using a boat while fishing, research to see what kinds of watercraft are allowed where you are going to fish.
Every fishing location is different, so pay special attention to local procedures and cautions. This also applies when you decide to clean your boat after you leave the water. You do not want to spread non-native species to another body of water.
Never fish where it is not permitted. There is always a reason why it is illegal. Some reasons include the protection of certain wildlife, the proper care of vegetation, and the safety of you and others who want to fish. Follow the law.
Follow a number of cautionary behaviors to ensure your safety. As with all forms of hunting, safety is first. If you will be using a boat while you fish, always bring life jackets, water, and other necessities. Make sure that your passengers are aware of boating and water safety. Make sure that you never fish on unauthorized waterways. Follow the posted speed limits and wake warnings that accompany the use of a boat. Bring with you all relevant safety items, such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone.
Fishing continues to be a favorite pastime. 2001 saw nearly 16% of the U.S. population over the age of 16 spend 16 days fishing. You enjoy the sport of fishing, so follow the rules that allow for the continuation of fishing. Be responsible and courteous of others and your environment. Take time to discover how you can be both a better and safer angler by having our patented Release Ruler as part of your fishing arsenal.
It’s a good rule to never litter while fishing. I am planning a vacation soon and I want to go fishing as part of the experience. Now I know to bring a trash bag with me so nothing falls in the water. Thanks!
Just came across this article and couldn’t agree more! We all share a responsibility to protect our environment. By at least being responsible with our trash we play our part in keeping our rivers and lakes healthy. We want our kids to have the same fun fishing we’re having, right? 🙂
I agree with your tip about not fishing without a permit since it’s illegal to do so. My husband and I wanted to go fishing for the first time last summer so we did some research for what we would need to go fishing legally and a permit was one of them. We are planning on going fishing again this summer so I will have to share these tips with my husband.
I agree that when it comes to taking a day to go fishing you need to make sure you keep your surroundings clean. It makes sense that in order for good healthy fishing to happen you need to make sure the place is clean and help it stay that way after you leave. I can see that this can not only help the animals around but also help you enjoy your surroundings with more intensity because of it’s cleanliness.