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The sun is shining. The air is cool and
crisp. Yes, fall has arrived. This is a great time for fishing, so you
gather up your fishing gear and move out.
You're walking through a forest where
the trees are brilliant in their fall colors of red, gold and orange.
They look stunning against the evergreen backdrop. Then, you come to
the edge of a swiftly moving stream that looks like a great fishing
opportunity.
You set down your tackle box and your
rod and reel, slip off your new waterproof jacket, and slip on a pair
of hip waders over your fisherman's vest. The abovementioned are just a
few of the many fishing accessories that are available to you from
stores, catalogs and the Internet. Read on to learn more about
interesting, valuable and fun fishing accessories.
The Fishing Basics
The backbone of your fishing equipment
is your rod and reel. If you are a casual fisherman, a fishing
hobbyist, or are buying equipment for children, go with the basic rod
and reel.
Tackle can range from simple to
extremely complicated. Basic tackle includes hooks, sinkers, bobbers,
fishing line and a pair of needle nosed pliers for removing your hook
if the catch swallows it.
You may also wish to buy a net. If you
are choosing a net, choose a size that will easily hold the fish
species that you are after. You don't want a small net if you are
fishing for salmon, and don't want a huge net if you are fishing for
rock bass. If you fish for a variety of species, you might want to
consider buying both a small and a large net.
High Tech Tools
Electronic alarms alert you when you
have a fish on your line. Your fishing line threads through a slot in
the alarm head. If you get a bite, the alarm beeps and an LED display
flashes. There are quite a variety of electronic alarms on the market.
Clothing For Anglers
Fishermen's clothing can range from
simple to elaborate. First necessities are a fishing hat and sunglasses
to shade your face from the sun. A good fishing vest with lots of
pockets also comes in handy, especially if you plan to wade into a
stream. Waders come in thigh or chest height, and are great for getting
out into the water to extend your casting reach. You may need
suspenders for these. In spring and fall, a good waterproof jacket and
gloves are essential for keeping you dry in foul weather. Rain
protection is also available in 1 and 2-piece suits.
Other Useful Accessories
You may also want to use forceps,
scissors, a flashlight, wading shoes, a fishing belt, a gaff (for big
game fish), a tackle box or bag, pliers, pocket thermometers, angling
pliers, and a good fishing knife and sharpener. All these accessories
will make your fishing experience more enjoyable and successful.
If you are fishing from a boat, be sure to take along a flotation vest or life jacket.
Get Advice Before Buying
Before choosing expensive accessories or
tackle, be sure it is right for the job and right for you. There are
many factors to be taken into consideration, including the species of
fish you are after.
If you are not sure which accessories
you will need, or if you have trouble choosing, ask a family member, a
friend, or a staff member at the local bait and tackle shop to help
you. Someone with experience can quickly help you assemble the fishing
accessories that will maximize your fish catching odds.
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