Learning the Different Shore Fishing Techniques
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If you’ve ever gone shore fishing, you know that it can be quite the adventure. As waters grow deeper and more populated with fish, your catches may vary from small and medium sized catches to large and sometimes even rare catches. In order to maximize the potential of any shore fishing environment, you must learn the different shore fishing techniques for fishing and the method which best suits your needs and the fishing environment.
This article takes a look at the different shore fishing techniques and supplies an outline of the common equipment and bait used and the techniques behind them.
Types of Shore Fishing Bait
The first step in learning the many different shore fishing techniques is knowing what type of bait is used. Common bait used in shore fishing includes worms, minnows, cut bait, shrimp and bread balls. These baits are very common in most shore fishing environments and can be purchased at almost any local bait or tackle shop.
When it comes to bait selection, worms tend to be one of the most popular choices of shore fishermen due to their longevity and ability to attract more fish. Worms can be considered a very light bait that can be used in all kinds of water.
Minnows are another popular bait for shore fishing. Minnows are small fish that can be used to catch a range of fish from small to huge. This bait can be purchased in select bait shops, particularly those that offer live bait options.
Cut bait is considered a good all purpose bait for most shore fishing conditions when you don’t want to invest in expensive lures or live bait. Cut bait can be purchased in any fishing shop and is basically just chunks of fresh or frozen fish with the guts and head still attached.
Shrimp is also a very popular bait choice, as it is light and has a natural smell that can attract a range of fish quickly. Shrimp can be bought live or seasonally as packaged bait.
Bread balls are an inexpensive choice for when you don’t have any other type of bait available. Bread balls are simply chunks of white bread that are broken apart and combined with small pieces of other bait, such as worms and shrimp, to create a single line of bait.
Types of Shore Fishing Techniques
Now that you know the different types of bait used in shore fishing, you can learn the different types of shore fishing techniques used. The following outlines the most commonly used techniques.
Float Fishing is one of the most popular techniques and is used mainly to jig or drift bait in areas that have a deep drop-off or water structure. This technique requires the use of a rod and reel, as well as a light-weight float, and is typically used with a single line or multiple lines with multiple hooks and bait.
Bottom fishing is a technique used mainly for the deeper waters and is the best choice for catching large, deep-sea type fish. Bottom fishing requires a strong rod, reel, and heavy weight to push the bait through the waters. This technique is typically done with rigs or a single line and multiple lures, which are cast out and left to sit on the bottom.
Surf Fishing is often used in beach areas and shallow waters to catch species such as bass, flounder, whiting, and perch. This technique requires the use of a rod, reel, lures, and various other supplies that are cast or drifted in along the shorelines.
Pier Fishing is another type of shore fishing technique used mainly for saltwater fish. When pier fishing, a long cast is required and the techniques used can vary based on the type of fish you are targeting. Generally, the main techniques used are either casting your line with a long rod, drop-shotting a float, or slow trolling with a lure.
Spin Fishing is considered one of the most popular techniques and is used mainly for inshore fish, such as redfish or flounder. It requires the use of a spinning combo and lures or live bait that can be casted in either direction.
Tips for Shore Fishing
Though there are many shore fishing techniques out there, learning the ropes of each and mastering them all can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, here are a few tips to help you get started:
– Always use the right bait for the species you are targeting.
– When you select a location for shore fishing, look for deep pools, drop-offs, or even a rocky shore and cast your bait in that area.
– Use the correct technique for the species you are targeting and the type of water you are in.
– Be sure to always check your line before you cast, as this could save your line and potential catches.
– Target the type of fish you are likely to find in the area you are fishing and adjust your techniques accordingly.
– Use the right rod and reel combo depending on the type of fish you are targeting.
With the right equipment and know-how, you may soon find yourself catching the big one with one of these shore fishing techniques. Whether you are just beginning or looking to refresh and refine your skills, this article hopefully gave you the knowledge you need to become a successful shore fisherman. Good luck and happy fishing!
