HOW-TO Fishing rocks!
Walleye was in my PJs.
The Compleat (Beginner) Angler GETTING YOUR FAMILY STARTED FISHING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK
PHOTOS: JAMES SMEDLEY
AT FIRST IT’S A DISTANT WHINE, but in the time it takes to raise your eyes, it’s upon you. Zoom! The metallic blue blur of a bass boat blasts
by with two guys hunkered down behind the windshield, clutching their fishing hats. Then they’re gone. Television fishing shows would have you
believe that fishing requires heavy-duty horse- power and enough equipment to open a tackle shop. Not so. By keeping it simple you can get started on a shoestring (though I still recom- mend monofilament). Let’s assume you’ll be fishing for freshwater
panfish like bass or crappie. Allowing some room for additions from local experts, the fol- lowing items make up a basic fishing kit for each fisher in your family:
• A spincasting reel and rod combo. This will come with line, usually 10-pound test, which is more than adequate. This type of reel is easy to use and gives little trouble. You can outfit yourself and two kids with rigs like this for under $50, much less if you shop at yard sales.
12 FAMILY CAMPING
• A package of plain #6 hooks. Have the staff at a fishing store show you how to tie the hook onto the line. If you don’t want to use live bait you’ll need some lures and swivels or leaders.
• Bait and tackle. These will vary depending on your quarry. Ask some locals. When it comes to lures don’t assume more expen- sive is better.
• An assortment of split shot weights. Weights get the bait deep or keep the lure down while casting or trolling.
• A bobber for each line. These let you keep your bait at a constant depth and let you keep your eye on things.
• A licence. Keep it legal by checking the rules for your area.
To rig up your outfits for fishing with bait, which is the simplest way to start with a family, tie a hook to each line using the knot you learned at the tackle store. About 6 to 12 inches above the hook, attach a split shot weight or two. About three feet further up, attach the bobber.
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