You've decided to go fishing and have enough tackle and knowledge to get started. Where do you go first? Your local tackle shop is the best place to find out where the fish are biting and how to catch them. Tell the shop employees what you want to catch, and they will set you up with tackle and point you toward the best fishing spots. Most coastal towns have an angler's club where local fishermen gather to swap fish stories and plan fishing trips. These clubs are great places to connect with other anglers.
>>>SaltWater Tips
Saltwater fishing is always fun and exciting, just know where you want to fish and what your fish are in the area.
>Bright Lures: Fish bite best on lures that look new and bright. Buy only lures you know you will need, and buy just enough to last a few trips. Rinse used lures and dry them before returning them to the tackle box.
>Set the Hook: Many anglers set the hook before the fish has the bait or lure well inside its mouth. Better to wait an extra second or two if you cannot see the fish, or wait until you actually see the bait or lure disappear inside the fish's mouth. A good way to time this is to wait until you feel a lot of pressure on the line from the fish.
>Use what you know: Use only brands of fishing line that you are familiar and comfortable with. Unknown bargain lines will often let you down at the worst moment.
>Live Bait: Live bait stays in top condition longer if kept in a well with good circulation. Incoming water is always best, but if that's not possible, use an aerator. Warm water cannot hold as much oxygen as cool, so temperature is critical. In an aerated, noncirculating system, the water must be changed every few hours to remove waste material that replaces oxygen in the water.
>Feel the Pole Move: A fish that appears tired and lethargic needs some help. If you simply toss it back in the water, it will likely sink and die. Moving it back and forth in still water or facing it upstream in current will get its respiratory system back in operation a lot faster. Wait until you can feel the fish beginning to move on its own before letting it go.
>How to Release: Use your hands grab the line, bring the fish up and grab your a pliers (hook removal tool) and remove the hook. Then release the fish back in the water. Any fish that escapes with a treble hook in the throat is a dead fish.
>Double Check: Before keeping your catch, double check that it meets the size or weight regulation set by the State Fish and Game Department. Here is a link for California's Department of Fish and Wildlife: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/regulations
