A Woman's Guide to Fishing

Ok, I know not many women fish, but for me I find it very enjoyable and relaxing. It helps relieve stress and what could be more fun than being out on the open water, outdoors with nature, and soaking up the suns rays? There are women out there who may want to try their hand at fishing but maybe are unsure of what to buy and what to get. Here is a woman's guide to fishing.

One of the first things you will need, of course, is a fishing pole. It doesn't matter what kind you get and it doesn't have to be expensive. For myself, I buy closed reel poles. For those women who don't know there are two types of fishing poles. Closed reel and open reel. Closed reel poles enclose your fishing line at the bottom of the pole so that you can't see it. It also requires that you push a button when casting out. I like this type of pole because my line doesn't seem to get tangled at the bottom like it does with an open reel. The second pole, an open reel, allows you to completely see your string at the bottom. It doesn't have a button to push so that you can cast out. Instead, it has a little metal flap that has to be flipped over to release your string so that you may cast out. The problem with this is once you turn that metal flap over; you have to hold your string so that all the string doesn't come off. While holding the string then you may cast. You then have to remember to turn the flap back over so that your string stays in place. This is why I like the closed reel better. It's simple and easy to use.

Second, poles don't come with hooks. I usually buy the number six hooks with a string attached to them. Ladies if you are unsure what to get hook wise, consult someone in the sporting department because they can show you the different types of hooks and what each is used for. You will also need to purchase sinkers. These are the metal objects put on your pole so that your line will sink down and hit the bottom. Sinkers come in many sizes so again ask someone in sporting goods if you aren't sure what to buy. Also, you will need to pick up some lightweight gloves. You will understand why that is in just a little bit.

Once you have all of your equipment, you will need to string your pole. This is usually fairly easy. My pole came with a black tab at the bottom of my reel that encased my fishing pole. I pulled my tab and it allowed the string to come out. Once you got your string out, string it through each hole of your fishing pole. Make sure that your wire doesn't get twisted while doing this. You won't be able to cast it good if it does and will have to start over and restring it. After you have your pole strung, add your hook. To do this simply take the end of your string and string it through the line that your hook is on. Make sure you have extra sting to allot for the sinkers. Tie the hook in several knots. To check and see if your knots hold, pull the hook to test the string. I usually tie about three knots on mine. Once you have secured your hook add your sinkers to the remaining line. I usually add about two small ones, depending on the wind and current of the water.

After you have your pole fixed and are ready to begin fishing, you will need to decide on what bait to use. I usually use night crawlers or wigglers. Both of these are types of worms. You can get them at any bait and tackle shop in your area. This is where women tend to become squeamish. Even I do at times. This is where your lightweight gloves come in because baiting worms can be messy. They tend to pooh all over and yes ladies it's gross. You will also need to obtain a fishing license. This can also be bought at your local bait and tackle shop. Once you have selected your worms and received your license, its time to go fishing! Put your gloves on and take a worm out and start hooking it on your pole. For some ladies who aren't into this at all, I would say take your husband, brother, etc and have them do it. Make sure when hooking your worm it is securely on your hook and the tip of the hook is completely covered.

Last, you're ready to cast. Swing your pole back over your shoulder and toss it towards the water holding in your button as you do so. This will send your line out into the water. Reel your line in so that there isn't a lot of slack. Wait until you feel a tug on your line and then quickly pull your line back to hook your fish. For first timers, this may take a bit to learn. Eventually, you will learn to do it and in no time at all will begin enjoying yourself.