Hooked on Fishing

Photo courtesy of Image Ontario

Basic tackle and a simple approach for boaters

By Mike Milne

Sportfishing these days can be complicated. Dedicated anglers usually have several tackle boxes filled with a wide selection of lures, jigs, rigs, spoons, sinkers, floaters and hooks, plus several different rod-and-reel combinations.

Different prey in different places respond best to unique combinations of bait and tackle, so having the right gear is an important part of an angler’s waterfront experience. But those on the water who just want to do some fishing along the way, often find it hard to cut through the complications.

Many recreational boaters, intimidated by the huge array of angling gear available and confused about what will work best, just forget about fishing. That’s too bad
because angling has a primal appeal – you’re catching your own food – and allows boaters to better commune with the lakes, rivers and oceans they enjoy. Healthy, edible fish are a good indicator of the environmental state of your boating waters. Fishing is also an excuse to spend relaxing hours in close contact with the water.

The good news is that sportfishing can still be relatively simple and accessible. Make sure you are following all the rules and regulations and do some research on the kind of fish you will be trying to catch, and then purchase some basic angling equipment and find a good place to store it on board. If you are licensed, equipped and informed, you will inevitably find the time to try your luck in and around anchorages or during slow, leisurely cruises.

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