If you want to catch fish but don’t have the gear, look no further to find out what you need and how to get it.
Fishing is rapidly becoming one of the most popular outdoor activities in America, especially in the wake of Covid-19. However, as with any new pursuit it can be difficult to get into. There is a myriad of gear to scour over, and it can be daunting to try to figure out what you need and where to begin.
First things first, you’ll need a fishing license. Buying a license is not only necessary to avoid receiving a fine or other infractions, but the money for the license goes directly to wildlife conservation funding. Year in and year out one of the best things you can do to support conservation is through purchasing a license.
For West Virginia residents an annual license will cost $18. Although, if you’re planning on fishing for trout you’ll need to purchase the additional trout stamp for $10. This is to help cover the costs of raising trout that will later be stocked in rivers and streams throughout the state. If you’re not a West Virginia resident your annual cost to fish in the state will be $37 and an additional $15 if you’re planning on fishing for trout. For more information, head to the WVDNR website: https://www.wvdnr.gov/Fishing/Fishing.shtm
The next thing you’ll need is a rod and reel. There are endless types of rods and reels to choose from and this is quite frankly the most overwhelming part of getting into fishing. The easiest and most cost effective way to get through this is by buying a rod and reel combo.
Specifically, you’ll want a spinning rod and reel combo. Just keep in mind though,
that like with most outdoor gear, the cheaper you go, the lower the quality of
the product is likely to be. For most circumstances, a rod and reel that is made
for 6-12lb test line and is around six feet long is optimal. If you’re specifically
targeting trout, go lighter, and if you’re specifically targeting largemouth bass,
catfish, or other bigger species, get an outfit that’s a little heavier.
The best places to purchase the rod and reel, and quite frankly nearly all the gear
you’ll need, will be from stores like Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and other outdoor
companies with a wide variety to choose from. Locally,
Sportsman’s Emporium has a great selection to choose from and heading in store
will allow you to ask salespersons questions and get you set up for your specific
needs.
After you get your reel you’re going to need to put fishing line on it. I would avoid
buying a reel with line already attached as that line is generally cheap and more
trouble than it's worth. There are two main types of fishing line, fluorocarbon
and monofilament. Fluorocarbon is generally more abrasion resistant and less visible
underwater, however its more expensive. Monofilament works just fine, is budget
friendly and is probably the best choice for beginners. You’ll want to buy clear
line around 6-10lb test, again going lighter for smaller fish, and heavier for
bigger fish.
Lastly you’ll need something to tie onto the end of your line, and that's where lures come in. The best thing to use starting out is worms. Whether they are nightcrawlers, bloodworms or something you dug up in your yard, just about anything that swims will eat a worm.
The main two ways to fish them are by putting weight on your line that keeps the
worm closer to the bottom, or by using a bobber above the worm to suspend the worm
in the water. For fishing worms, use hooks from sizes 1-4, depending on the fish
you’re after.
If you want to move past worms the next lure I would suggest would be crappie jigs
and inline spinners like Roostertails. They both catch an abundance of fish including
trout, panfish, walleye, and bass.
Get the jigs around the 2” size and in multiple colors. Start with white and black, then spread out into other colors ranging from light to dark. Time, temperature, weather, and brightness of the day are all factors in which color to use. A general rule is bright day, bright lure, and vice versa. You’ll need jig-head hooks and the Roostertails in a few weights such as 1/32, 1/16, and ⅛ oz.
Fishing is a classic pastime and a great way to get outdoors. Whether it’s for the day for just an hour or two, getting on the water can clear the mind and get you out of the crazy world if only for just a bit!
About the Author
