Fishing is one of the most relaxing activities one can approach, as you mostly sit in silence while admiring nature’s wonders and waiting for your prey. Hence, we can say that one of fishing’s main benefits is the connection to nature, which leads to stress relief.
On the other hand, fishing helps you develop some essential life skills, such as reading water conditions. This aspect is crucial to knowing how to cast and tie knots, which will determine a part of your success rate.
However, fishing is not for the weak, as there are a few risks related to the activity, including cutting yourself or falling from dangerous fishing spots. At the same time, fishing is different across seasons, so you must take all precautions to protect yourself. Here’s how.
Spring fishing
If you’re too enthusiastic about fishing as soon as the new year starts, you must take the time to analyse some parameters before doing it. First, search for warm water, where fish love to swim, but you might want to start later in the day.
You also need to consider current changes and fish where the water is clearer. Fish are not energetic during this season, so lower your bait and use fresh products to attract fish. But remember, it might take some time for them to interact, so it’s best to be patient.
Since it’s spring and the time for new beginnings, you must be wary of new private property signs placed around popular fishing ponds and spots. Although it’s illegal to trespass in these places, some fishermen choose to do so due to the lack of fishing spots, but this can get you a ticket or expose you to problems with the property owners. On the other hand, fishing is known for various casualties, so if you’ve ever been hurt on purpose in public places, you can rely on the professional advisors from https://www.personalinjuryclaimsuk.org.uk/ to bring you the compensation deserved for physical injuries.
Summer fishing
Fishing in the summer is slightly different, as the high temperatures warm up the water, making fish move deeper to seek colder environments. This means you should avoid fishing in the afternoon and start early in the morning when the water is still colder. At the same time, you can also fish at night, especially during a full moon, when you’ve got more visibility.
It’s also best to look for currents. For example, if you fish on natural lakes, you should cast on the windy side, where fish don’t spend that much energy to move around and feed themselves.
On the other hand, fast-moving rivers are best for fishing because you can find hellgrammites, fish’s favourite meal, and lure them in easily.
Other valuable advice to remember when fishing during summer includes the following:
- Use worms to dangle on a size 8- or 10-hook;
- Fish as fast as possible and cast quickly to attract more fish;
- Use deep-diving crankbaits to fish deeper;
- Fish the shoreline, where fish usually hide to avoid the heat;
Autumn fishing
As the water gets colder in autumn, you must prepare again for a change of plans. Since you’ll be able to fish around the day, you must learn to read nature’s ways of the best time and place to fish. For example, about this time, fish tend to get up to the surface to get their prey, making birds chase them, offering you an idea of where they are.
At the same time, you might want to expand your fish targets and locate different species. For example, fishing during autumn in the UK gives you access to the following species:
- Carp is at its peak as it had plenty of time for feeding in the summer;
- Coarse can be caught better with a mix of live and ground bait;
- Bass, pollock, and wrasse can be found in coastal waters;
- Predators like pike and perch are plentiful in late autumn;
The autumn bait should consist of coarse oil pellets, nutritional additives, and even hemp, which fish digest faster. Natural baits are best during this season, so you can also add some sweetcorn and maggots to the bait recipe.
Winter fishing
Many professionals consider winter the best time for this activity, especially with the grouping of freshwater species, increasing their chances of a nice catch. However, it’s best to time your fishing from ten to four in the afternoon, when the water and weather get slightly warmer.
Anytime earlier or later will represent an unsuccessful fishing session.
Fishing during winter also requires special gear. For example, the temperatures can freeze your reels and thicken the oil and grease, so you need a line conditioner to prevent the line from solidifying. Live bait is best in winter as it reacts to the cold water and attracts fish faster and easier. Still, if you choose lures, you should consider those with attachments that get their attention.
What’s most important to remember when fishing during winter is how to protect yourself. Considering the cold temperatures, the risks of getting injured or freezing are considerable, so you need to remember the following:
- Always have a fishing partner who can help in case of hypothermia or any other emergency;
- Develop a float plan with close ones so they know when to contact authorities if they don’t hear from you;
- Choose layered clothing with wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you warm;
- Wear hand and foot warmers;
- Always wear a life jacket under your coat;
- Carry high-energy and nutritious foods with you;
Are you ready to improve your fishing skills all year round?
Fishing is a wonderful sport and hobby, which is why so many people are hooked on it. However, its complexities go beyond social media norms and competition, which is why you must be prepared to fish adequately during every season. Know that fish are most active during warmer weather but tend to go in bigger groups in colder temperatures, so learn to adjust your strategies, and you’ll be successful.