Fishing Is a Peaceful Way To Spend the Day

Walking up to the shore with your fishing pole and tackle box in hand, you never know what the day will bring. How will the fishing be? Where are the fish hiding? What kinds of fish are swimming below the surface? How many fish can you catch? Will the fish even be biting today?

(Photo by Anthony Schalk)

Fishing is full of surprises! With these tips, you will be ready to have a great day by the water — and maybe catch your biggest fish yet!  

Be patient like a pro  

The first tip for fishing is patience. Fishing isn't always fast and easy. Remember that you are spending a day out in nature. It is called "fishing" and not "catching" for a reason. Take the time to enjoy the sights and sounds of everything that surrounds you. Feel the warm sun or the cool breeze on your skin. Listen to the birds singing all around you. Watch the dragonflies and damselflies buzzing by the water.   

Pack light to make fishing easy  

Pack lightly. If you decide to change locations and fish in a different spot, you don't want to have to lug a bunch of gear around with you. Just bring what you need for the day. Some anglers have two tackle boxes: one with minimal tackle that is easy to carry and another with all the extras ... just in case. Another perk of having fewer items with you is there is less to keep track of. Too much gear on a windy day can be trouble.   

Stay quiet to be kind to animals  

When you arrive at the shoreline, be quiet and approach the water slowly. Not only do you not want to disturb other anglers, but you also don't want to scare any wildlife. Fish, frogs and fowl (birds like geese and ducks) may be in the area. Take the time to observe these animals and take care not to pester them while you cast. Remember, you are visiting these animals’ homes.   

Find the fish's favorite spots  

(Photo by Suzy Lyttle)

Fish can often be found in and around underwater structures. Weed beds, rock piles, sudden changes in water depth, tree stumps, sunken logs and felled trees are all hotspots for fish. Speaking of hot, fish generally don't like warm water. So on a hot day, look for these creative spots to fish.   

Snagged? Don't panic!  

Getting your hook snagged is not uncommon. Sometimes your hook will get stuck on a rock or log underwater, other times it is up in a tree. The best thing you can do is remain calm and persistent. Move around to try different angles if your hook is snagged on something underwater. Try pulling steadily and firmly on the line or give it a quick pop to yank it free. The last thing you want to do is snap your line.

Leaving fishing line and a hook out in our waterways poses a dangerous situation for the wildlife living there, so do your best to remove as much as you are able to — always trying to leave the space better than you found it. The forest preserves offer a recycling service for fishing line. See if you can spot our collection bins around our local waterways.

Switch things up  

If you are not catching any fish, do your best to change things up. Cast in different directions, reel your line in at different speeds or change the depth if you are using a bobber. Change up what you are doing until something works.   

The best part is just being outside!  

(Photo by Suzy Lyttle)

The most important thing about fishing is getting out there. Even if you don't catch any fish, you still got to enjoy your day spent outside. Get your line wet and enjoy your day out in nature.   

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