Information on Fishing Equipment

Basics

A fisherman uses a rod, also called a pole, to catch fish. He connects one end of a cord, called a fishing line, to the rod, and the other end to the hook or lure. If he uses a hook, the fisherman usually attaches live bait, such as a worm, to attract a fish. Another choice, a fishing lure, moves and looks like live food and entices a fish to bite it. Most fishermen attach a reel to the rod to pull in a hooked fish.

A fisherwoman chooses a rod’s firmness and flexibility for the type of fish she wants to catch. A small fish, such as a crappie, bites cautiously. Use a rod with flexible action to feel its bite. On the other hand, bass are very aggressive fish with large mouths. Employ a firm rod to snap the line, securely hooking the fish’s mouth.

Use similar principles when choosing your line. Light 4-pound line works for crappies while 10-pound is better for bass. Manufacturers will suggest the weight of line that works best for its rods. Line also comes in colors designed to blend in with the water for low visibility.

Surface or top water lures sit on the surface of water, looking like the flies or mosquitoes that fish eat. Metal spoon lures go beneath the water. The metal's shininess attracts fish. Lures may have moving parts or bright colors.

Some fishermen attach a bobber to the line. The device normally floats on the water, but it's pulled beneath the surface when a fish is on the line. Attaching weights or sinkers to a fishing line holds it in place. Fishermen use these in moving water. Electronic fish finders attach to a boat. They emit sonar to measure water temperature, depth and the presence of fish. A well-equipped fisherman also carries a knife to cut line or bait and a net to hold fish.

You can purchase a basic rod, reel, line, hooks, weights and lures for less than $100. But a special sport reel can cost more than $1,000. Baits and lures range from $2 to $20 each and can be purchased in kits that come with several different types of lures. Fishing line starts at less than $10 for 200 yards with sport brands going for more than $100 for 1,500 feet of line (all prices as of July 2010).