Nearly 1 in every 6 Americans went fishing last year. More than 55 million people hit the water ways angling for a good time, the largest increase in fishing participation in more than 40 years.

First time participants rose more than 14 percent. This left a lot of new anglers wondering just how to fish.

Most of the time, those introduced to fishing are children, and they are learning from either a parent or someone like a camp counselor. Luckily, there are plenty of resources out there for adults just starting out.

The first step is finding out what fish are in the area. Most states and cities have on-line resources to identify the species of fish in local rivers, lakes, or seaside.

How to Choose a Rod and Reel

For most beginners, a spinning rod and reel set is the way to go. These are not only the most versatile of rigs, but they are the easiest to learn and most forgiving for beginner mistakes.

Beginner spinning reels mount under the rod, facing down, with the line guides facing down as well. The angler holds the reel between their fingers. There are many sets that come pre-strung and ready to go.

The best fishing rod and reel combo for beginners are:

• Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2: Shakespeare is a standard name in fishing and continues to provide excellent kids fishing gear at reasonable prices. The Ugly Stick series is their go-to line.
• FishOaky Starter Fishing Rod: this collapsible set is not only light and portable, but it also comes with a variety of hooks, lures, and other starting accessories. It is a great choice for saltwater beginners as it is made to be non-corrosive.
• Penn Fierce II: This is a graphite set made to the high standards of Penn, but still affordable for those just starting out. Like the Ugly Stick, this a standard beginner go-to set.

A Child Will Never Forget their First Catch When You Teach Kids to Fish!

Best Tackle Box for Beginners

Along with a rod and reel, beginners will need hooks, weights, floats, and lures, as well as a tackle box to store them. Like beginning rods, there are a variety of options out there that are inexpensive and still complete.

• Plano Ready-Set-Fish 3-Tray Tackle Box: The name of this set says it all. Plano is a well-respected brand that supplies quality for a reasonable price.
• MadBite Freshwater 214pc Terminal Tackle Kit: This is an excellent starter kit for those sticking to freshwater fishing. It will not stand up to saltwater conditions but is otherwise an excellent choice.

How to Tie a Fishing Knot

When learning how to fish, one of the most basic skills is how to tie a fishing hook to the line. There are two common knots that every angler knows.

• The Clinch Knot: Also known as a fisherman’s knot, this is an easy, durable knot that will keep the hook on the line no matter how hard the fight.
  • Pass the end of the line through the hook eye and wrap it around the line’s body 5-7 times.
  • Insert the loose end through the first loop next to the eye and bring it back through the loose section.
  • Pull both ends to tighten. Trim any extra line.

• The Snell, or Knotless Knot: This is like the fisherman’s knot, but ties around the hook for a more solid feel and smoother release.
  • Cut the line to your preferred size and loop the end of it.
  • Tie the loop.
  • Insert the opposite end through the eye of the fishhook from front to back.
  • Hold the hook’s shank and wrap the line around 6-8 times heading down toward the end of the hook.
  • Grab the other end of the line and push it through the hook’s eye from back to front.
  • Moisten the line, hold the hook and the looped part of the line firmly, and pull the other end to complete the knot.

How to Set Up a Fishing Pole

With line tied to hook or lure, the last part is setting depth. Most beginners fish with bait, which means a weighted sinker and a floater, or bobber.

Bullet weights are the best for beginners. This is because they can easily be moved to different spots on the line and can be tied on after the hook.

Many beginners find they’ve set their rig but forget the weight and must undo everything to start over. This avoids that frustration.

The weight should be tied several inches away from the hook. This allows the line to sink to the desired depth but allows the bait free movement in the water.

A bobber is added to keep the line in place and to alert the beginner with a visual indicator of a strike.

Most bobbers are round and have spring-loaded catches that allow them to be moved anywhere on the line. This allows anglers to change the depth of their bait with ease.

Finally, hook the bait being used and the fishing jig is ready to be used.

How to Get a Fishing License

Many, but not all, areas require a license to fish. Before any new angler hits the water, they need to ensure they are following all applicable state and local laws.

Nearly every state requires a license to fish. Some states have discounted, or free, licenses for children and seniors. In many coastal states, anglers need separate licenses for fresh or saltwater fishing.

There are also some species of fish that require a special license.

It is, however, easy to apply for a fishing license, and to get a fishing license. Many outdoor retailers have license kiosks directly in the store, meaning a new angler can get gear and license all at the same place.

While many law enforcement officers are understanding of new anglers not knowing the need for a license, it is always better to make sure those going out have everything they need to avoid fines.

Keep or Catch and Release

Finally, decide before heading out if these are fish to keep and eat, or ones to catch and release. If keeping them, make sure to have a bucket or gill line handy. Check out the types of fish you can catch with your kids and teenagers.

If releasing, make sure to get a net and a good set of hook pliers to ensure the fish is harmed as little as possible.

Teaching a Child How to Fish is One of the Most Meaningful Things a Kid Will Take with Him or Her for the Rest of their Lives.

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Every state offers free fishing days on a different day—with some states having multiple days or weekends. However, most dates correspond with the summer months, particularly the first two weeks of June. However, free fishing dates start in January and continue through December.

The majority of states schedule their free fishing days during National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW), which is held every year during the first week of June. For 2021, this week is scheduled for June 5 to 13. As such, many states are holding their free fishing dates for 2021 on June 5th and 6th and June 12th and 13th. In addition to offering free fishing, many states hold special activities focused on fishing and boating during NFBW.

A handful of states offer free fishing around the July 4^th holiday, including California (July 3), Maryland, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina. In Alaska, fishing is free year-round for children under age 16 and anglers aged 60 and older. Hawaii has free marine fishing year-round. (A license for non-residents is under consideration but hasn’t yet been implemented.)

Minnesota offers three fishing weekends focusing on different audiences. On May 8-9, moms who are Minnesota residents can enjoy fishing during “Take Mom Fishing Weekend.” From June 11 to the 13, Minnesota residents age 16 and older can fish for free with children under 15 during “Take A Kid Fishing Weekend.” Finally, January 15 to 17 is “Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend”—an opportunity for Minnesota residents over 16 to fish for free with children under 15.

Some states offer free fishing days for different types of fishing. For example, Florida offers free freshwater fishing on April 3-4 and June 12-13 and free saltwater fishing on June 5-6, September 4, and November 27. Massachusetts has free freshwater fishing on June 5-6 and free saltwater fishing during Father’s Day Weekend (June 12-13).

Free fishing day activities vary by state. For example, Texas releases hundreds of catfish to help beginners catch a fish. Many states schedule activities during free fishing days, including fishing lessons and clinics, fishing derbies, and boat parades.

Free fishing days are an excellent opportunity to teach kids to fish. For new anglers interested in trying the sport, the Rusty Angler offers equipment recommendations and advice for beginner bass fishing.

The following list provides the free fishing days for each state. However, anglers should check their state’s fish and wildlife department website for specific details regarding free fishing locations and requirements. These websites will also provide guidance on places to fish and accompanying events.

• Alabama: June 12
• Alaska: Free all year for people under age 16 or over 60 years of age
• Arizona: June 5
• Arkansas: June 11 to June 13
• California: July 3 and September 4
• Colorado: June 5 and 6
• Connecticut: May 8, June 20, and August 14
• Washington DC: May 31 through June 6
• Delaware: June 5 and 6
• Florida: Free saltwater fishing on June 5-6, September 4, and November 27. Free freshwater fishing on April 3-4 and June 12-13.
• Georgia: June 5, June 12, and September 25
• Hawaii: 365 days of free ocean fishing (however some locations prohibit shoreline fishing)
• Idaho: June 12
• Illinois: June 18 to 21
• Indiana: May 2,June 5-6, and September 25
• Iowa: June 4 and 6
• Kansas: June 5 and 6
• Kentucky: June 5 and 6
• Louisiana: June 12 and 13
• Maine: February 13 and 14 and June 5 and 6
• Maryland: June 5, June 12, July 4
• Massachusetts: Free freshwater fishing on June 5-6 and free saltwater fishing on June 19-20
• Michigan: February 13-14andJune 12-13
• Minnesota: May 8-9 is Take A Mom Fishing Weekend (Minnesota resident moms fish free), June 11-13 is Take A Kid Fishing Weekend (Minnesota residents age 16 or older fish free with children under age 16), and January 15-17, 2022 is Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend (Minnesota residents age 16 or older fish free with children under age 16)
• Mississippi: June 5 and 6 and July 4
• Missouri: June 12 and 13
• Montana: June 19 and 20
• Nebraska: May 22
• Nevada: June 12
• New Hampshire: January 16 and June 5
• New Jersey: June 5 and October 23
• New Mexico: June 5 and September 25
• New York: February 13 and 14, June 26 and 27, September 25, and November 11
• North Carolina: July 4
• North Dakota: June 5 and 6 and December 25 and 26
• Ohio: June 19 and 20
• Oklahoma: June 5 and 6
• Oregon: February 13 and 14, June 5 and 6, and November 26 and 27
• Pennsylvania: May 30 and July 4
• Rhode Island: May 1 and 2 (freshwater fishing only)
• South Carolina: May 31 and July 4
• South Dakota: May 9, May 21 through 23, and June 20
• Tennessee: June 12
• Texas: June 5
• Utah: June 12
• Vermont: January 30 and June 12
• Virginia: June 4 through 6
• Washington: June 5 and 6 and June 13
• West Virginia: June 12 and 13
• Wisconsin: January 16 and 17 and June 5 and 6
• Wyoming: June 5

The post List of Each State’s Free Fishing Days 2021 appeared first on Bass Fishing Tips - Fishing Tackle Boxes.

An underwater fishing light is not just some flashlight mounted to the hull of a boat. These are quality lights that use a surreal green glow to attract all kinds of fish. While there are many different colors, green are by far the best.

Color Matters – At Least to Fish

The concept behind underwater fishing lights is activation of the water’s food chain. Plankton is attracted to the light and comes to the surface. Baitfish follow the plankton, and predatory fish follow them.

However, when it comes to the best underwater fishing lights, the color matters. While photographers use red or blue lights, underwater fishing lights should be green.

Green fishing lights are the most effective because the short wavelength of green light lets it penetrate the water deeper than other colors. And deeper is better for bringing up the big game fish.

As Above So Below

Underwater fishing lights can be broken down into two categories, portable and permanently boat mounted. Each have their pros and cons. There are also underwater dock lights that can act the same way as boat lights.

• Boat Mounted:
  • Great for docks
  • Great for swimmers to find the boat
  • Easy to use
  • Look cool as hell
  • Light up the water only, so no insects

• Portable Lights:
  • They are, well, portable
  • Run off batteries or 12-volt car or boat systems
  • Durable and shock resistant
  • Usable in multiple settings
  • Usable as a deep fishing light

Aside from the two primary categories of mounted or drop lights, those looking for a good underwater fish light should also consider quality, brightness in lumens, and functionality. In addition, while it sounds obvious, the waterproof level is a must known

The Best Underwater Fishing Lights – Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark

Without further ado, here are our picks for the best underwater fishing lights, both permanent and portable:

• Deep Drop LED Fishing light 2,100 ft Green
  • Perfect for grouper, sailfish, and other deep sea sportfish, this light is sturdy, reliable, and at less than twenty dollars if it gets eaten or lost it won’t ruin the night.

• Green Glow Dock Light
  • Dock mounted.
  • High quality and hand made in American.
  • The five year bulb life makes the cost of that replacement bulb a little more bearable.
  • Low electricity levels.
  • No bugs but plenty of fish.

• Lumitech SeaBlazeX
  • Boat mounted light.
  • Solid, marine-grade bronze with a sealed lens.
  • Full spectrum LED for color selection – making it great for boat parties as well as fishing.
  • Dimmable

• Fire water marine MAXX LED
  • An inexpensive portable light.
  • Bright and large for maximum attraction.
  • Rated for saltwater as well as fresh.

• Nebo
  • Quarrow Nebo 180 LED Submersible Fishing Light
  • High quality and heavy construction drop light.
  • Made to withstand repeated use.
  • Made by a specialty flashlight company, so they know their stuff.

• Goture submersible fishing light
  • Another drop light worth investigating with heavy duty clamps and a solid construction.
  • Compact but incredibly bright
  • Seal stays tight and resist wear

• Samdo IP68 LED Light
  • Good for fish as well as squid and crab
  • Low power consumption
  • Long-life bulb
  • Simplest of all to use
  • Great value for the cost

• Amarine-made
  • This is a deep-drop light made for depths up to 20 feet.
  • Easy to use cigarette lighter adaptor.
  • AC Adaptor allows it to be used outside the water for various applications.
  • A great, all-around camping and fishing light.

• Green LED underwater
  • Ultra compact and portable drop light.
  • Only one water tight seal, making it less likely to leak and need replacement.
  • A 50,000 hour bulb!
  • Easy to store and very durable.

• SUPERNIGHT Green LED Light – Strip Light
  • This is an adhesive light strip that gives boat and dock owners a large variety of use options.
  • Can be strung along the side of a hull or dock.
  • Versatile
  • Very inexpensive
  • However, like a Christmas light strip, break part of it and the rest will quickly follow.

Free Fishing Gear? – That’s What I Call A Green Light

Like any specialized piece of equipment, a submersible fishing light can be a significant investment. Sure, there are cheap versions that will last a short time before breaking, but the quality ones will mean a willingness to open that wallet.

Unless, Rusty Angler can find some quality fishing giveaways or fishing sweeps that can bring those prices down. Way down.

A good fishing promotion code can save the savvy seaman some serious cash. Look for these online and at retailers.

At the same time, don’t be afraid to investigate the fishing sweepstakes and fishing contests that are found throughout the internet. Many of these allow the smart shopper to enter just the information they want to ensure the best possible chance of winning.

Even the best of us need to ensure what we get has the least impact on our wallets. So keep a sharp eye out for a fishing giveaway where companies are looking to send free fishing gear to potentially new lifelong customers.

These sweepstakes and giveaways help companies find loyal customers and that means they are willing to slash their prices to ensure a happy experience.

So go out and grab a good underwater fishing light. Don’t be afraid of the dark. Sure there are monsters lurking in the nighttime darkness, but that’s exactly the type of fish to go after.

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At the same time, mistakes can cost the best anglers a chance to do so and lead to a frustrating trip for the child. That can lead to a lifelong aversion to angling instead of a lifetime of happy days behind the line.

Knowing how to make the outing enjoyable is only part of the job. Kids need specific gear to ensure success as well as learning safety and conservation. Still, one of the more important aspects of ensuring a good start is choosing which species of fish to target.

Sunfish

One of the best fish for kids to go after are Sunfish, or Sunnies. Usually found in fresh water, Sunnies are one of the most common fish throughout the US and one of the easiest to catch.

Smaller and aggressive eaters, Sunnies can be targeted with live baits like worms and grubs, or any number of worm-like artificial lures. In some areas, Sunnies have even been known to go after bread on a hook.

Just make sure those hooks are smaller as sunfish are too little for large hooks. Since they are aggressive eaters, sunfish are more likely to strike the line rather than nibble, and they don’t put up much a fight, making it easier for small hands to reel them in.

Bluegills

Bluegills are another easy to catch small fish that are perfect for young anglers. Widespread throughout all of North America, South America, Africa, and Europe, these fish are one of the most popular target fish for anglers of all ages.

Like Sunnies, bluegill love to eat and are aggressive in their strikes. They will go after a large variety of live and artificial baits, especially fly and worm lures.

Crappie

Despite the name, Crappie fish are anything but. Many anglers consider them one of the most fun fish to catch. With their large numbers, commonly found habitat, aggressive nature, and light fight, most fishermen prefer crappies over perch.

Perch

Crappie will go after a variety of minnows and small jigs. While they will strike artificial lures, crappie prefer live bait and it is hard to go wrong with a bunch of minnows. Finally, these fresh water fish love to school, so once a crappie is hooked the young angler can be assured of catching a bucket full more.

Perch are another common, easy to catch fish that’s ideal for early anglers. White and yellow perch can be found throughout North America in both fresh and salt water varieties, although yellow perch are by far the preferred species.

Part of the joy of perch is they will eat anything. Perch eat worms, insects, minnows, jigs, plugs, and spinners. Yellow perch have even been known to go after silver, shiny, hooks with no bait on them. The shiny reflection can be enough to lure one of these fish in.

Catfish

Finally, catfish are a great introductory fish for those near catfish waters. Like perch, catfish eat just about anything, although they are known to go crazy over chicken livers. They are plentiful and easy to find, making them ideal for getting young anglers excited about fishing.

Keep it Simple and Exciting

While the type of fish is important, the approach to fishing is just as crucial when starting out with a young child.

Short Trips

Keep the initial trips short. Most children have a short attention span and tire easily. One or two hours is enough to get them interested and wanting to return. Any more than that and the child might not want to try again.

Bobbers

Bobbers are a critical tool when teaching a child. Not only do bobbers make it easier to fish, there are few things more exciting than watching a bobber dip below the surface as a fish goes for the bait.

Simplicity is key for kids. A short rod with split shot weights, a bobber, and a small hook is all that is needed. And while many adults prefer lures, most kids learn better with live bait. The process becomes more interactive and interesting. Not to mention worms and crickets are easy to find and use.

Backup Plans

Just to be safe, have a backup plan. Nothing could make the day go south quicker than coming home with an empty bucket. Try bringing a minnow trap or dip net so the child can catch their own bait. No matter what, this allows them to say they caught something.

Have Fun

Finally, make sure the trip is about having a good time, not about catching the fish. If the entire outing is enjoyable – maybe there’s swimming involved as well as fishing – then the child will equate fishing with fun.

This is especially important if no fish are caught. The idea is for the entire outing to be enjoyable. If fish are caught, that is an extra bonus that is sure to bring a smile to any child’s face.

Eat What You Catch

For many kids, the idea of “providing for the family” is something that is years away and almost out of reach. All of the fish mentioned in this article are good to eat with hundreds of recipes online.

If camping, or even just in the backyard or kitchen, a cast-iron skillet and some butter is often all that’s needed to have a tasty meal. After all, these smaller fish are known as “panfish” for a reason. Use the recommended panfish lures.

When a child catches a fish, that’s exciting. When that same child helps clean the fish and watches someone cook it, there is an intense sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Add to that the joy of watching Mom and Dad eat what that child has provided, and it is sure that the youth will be hooked on fishing just as readily as the fish was hooked on the line.

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