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How to Catch the Big Fish
For many people, taking up a hobby like fishing can be a relaxing way to spend a summer’s day on a weekend. For others, however, fishing isn’t just a hobby – it’s a serious sport. The select few who really take their fishing seriously usually have a common question: how do I catch the big fish? If you want to stop catching minnows and start catching muskies, this article will be a great guide.
1. Go where the big fish are.
Seem obvious? Okay, let’s try an experiment. Write down five local lakes you know that have fish that grow longer than a foot, nose to tail. Can you do it? If not, you’re going to have to do some research, ask around, and find out what you can do to start fishing where the big fish are waiting to be caught.
Many times, an ordinary Google search isn’t enough. Try asking some other fishermen at a local bait shop or fishers you come across on a lake. Many times, the die-hard fishers will be able to not only tell you where the big fish are, but when to fish for them and how to catch them.2. Know your target.
Common “big” fish caught around the United States include Muskellunge (muskie), Northern Pike, types of bass, and even catfish. If you’re going to catch the big fish, you’re going to have to know their habits – what they eat, where they eat, and what they’re often attracted to. You can’t expect to go out to a big lake, throw a worm on a hook, and catch a picture-worthy fish.
Instead, read up on your target and learn about their behaviors. Consult some fishing magazines or even an online source like Wikipedia. After about a week’s worth of easy reading, you’ll feel that you know your fish inside and out. The more experience you get, the more you’ll be able to search for a wider variety of big fish.
3. Match the bait with the fish.
You have to customize your strategy around the type of fish you’re going for, otherwise you can’t predict the kind of results you might get. In doing your research on your big fish of choice, make special note of the kind of bait and tackle that typically attracts your fish. If you know when the fish are most active and can drop some enticing bait into the water, you stand a good chance of finally catching that big fish.
Fishing is great, especially when you chase after challenges that a beginner wouldn’t necessarily try. The more you expand your awareness of local fish, the better you’ll get.
Photo Credits: Eldar
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Sleeping in Style on the Campsite
Anyone who has ever gone camping before knows that when dawn hits, there’s only one thought on your mind: the quality of your sleep. Sleeping uncomfortably on the ground can be torture throughout the night, not only causing you pain but taking away from precious hours of energy-replenishing sleep.
That’s why it’s important to plan for a good night’s sleep even before you head out into the woods, particularly if you plan on sleeping on a good-sized tent that will protect you from the elements and give you your own “room” outdoors.
First, if you plan on sleeping in style, you’ve got to have a good foundation for a comfortable night’s sleep. In other words, you absolutely have to have something buffering between your bones and the ground.
An air mattress is ideal for this kind of buffer: not only will it provide you with the same kind of comfort that you might get indoors, but they pack into smaller spaces when deflated, much like a sleeping bag.Of course, for those of you who have used an air mattress before, you might be rolling your eyes and saying “an air mattress? How will I ever fill it with air in time to get a good night’s sleep?” The answer? Go online to find the Coleman Quick Pump. Simply fill it with batteries and the air will flow automatically into your air mattress. Voila.
You can’t simply rest on an air mattress all night and expect a decent night’s sleep, however, particularly if you’re in a northern state. In the northern states, the temperature can drop unexpectedly even on summer nights.
It’s tempting to bring extra sheets and blankets, but this might add unnecessary bulk to your load. Instead, simply use a zip-able sleeping bag and unzip it over your mattress. You’ll receive the coverage of a normal blanket with the insulation of a sleeping bag.
As for pillows, this one is up to you. You can bring a pillow from home if you have the room for it, but some air mattresses will also come with inflatable pillows that will be easier to pack. If you’re someone who can’t live without their pillow made from Down, this might be an indulgence you won’t want to leave at home.
Remember to plan your entire camping experience ahead of time so that you have the equipment and know-how for some rustic fun without the discomforts of being outdoors.
Photo Credits: kysbydabeach
