So, you have stumbled across the wonderful world of fishing. Maybe you have researched rods, investigated bait and even purchased a comfy lakeside chair. Or perhaps you are a complete beginner and don’t know where to start.
Before you do anything, it is crucial that you find out which of the major disciplines suits your lifestyle, personality and financial situation the best. Before testing the waters, read on to find out which discipline is going to satisfy that angling appetite.
What is Carp Fishing?
Carp fishing is one of the most popular disciplines and has an amazing social scene. Anglers often fish overnight on syndicated lakes to catch some record-breaking carp. For beginners, it is best to investigate this in-between the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn.
Carp fishing spans over a longer period, which is why they often require a lot of tackle for overnight stays- some anglers even take portable TV’s. It is also more technical than the other disciplines, experimenting with modern tackle such as remote-control bait boats! So, if you appreciate the evolution of technology- this discipline may be for you.
Anglers typically require two or three rods on a rod pod and sit in a bivvy or carp brolly for protection from the lovely British weather. When shopping for baits, carp prefer boilies, particles (which are jars of soaked and boiled pulses and seeds) and artificial baits such as fake sweetcorn.
Spend level: £££
What is Coarse Fishing?
Predator Fishing, is often the ‘entry’ discipline into fishing, as it is the best place to learn the basics. Anglers within this discipline often fish matches on weekends that usually last 4-6 hours. There are a few sub-categories within coarse fishing, including Commercial Anglers, Natural Venue Anglers and Specialist Anglers. All the categories stick to the main coarse baits which are maggots, pellets and ground bait.
Using a single rod or pole, coarse fishing usually takes place in commercial, manmade lakes that are full of smaller carp or other silverfish. However, they also don’t shy away from rivers and canals as they can hold some decent catches!
Spend Level: £££
What is Predator Fishing?
Predator fishing consists of two types of anglers- Hunters and Trappers. Hunters are lure anglers that use imitation fish as their bait. In doing so, the lure fish assume that the bait is an injured or dying fish.
Predator Fishing is easy to set up which makes it a great choice for after work and weekend adventures! It is the perfect way to get out by the water quickly and efficiently. The best seasons to give it a go would be spring and summer as predators prepare for spawning season. However, when you’re a pro, don’t hesitate to fish in the winter months as they provide a good sporting challenge.
Spend level: ££
What is Sea Fishing?
Sea fishing also consists of two types- Shore and Boat. It spans across all coastal areas, and you have probably seen anglers peacefully fishing from piers and harbour walls. The most effective catch depends on the time of year, as different temperatures welcome different species of fish.
Shore fishing is great for anglers on a budget as there is no need to buy or rent a boat out and purchase all the expensive gear that comes with going out to some of the best fishing spots. Although it is common for young anglers to assume that this will limit their catches, that is not the case. There is no need for a net to pull the catch into a boat, instead you can easily reel it on the shore, saving both time and a heck of a lot of energy.
Spend level: £
What is Fly Fishing?
Once again, Fly Fishing consists of two types: Trout and Salmon anglers. Fly fishing is for those who do not mind spending a few coins- salmon anglers often pay thousands just to fish a mile of river! Fly fishing allows you to get up close and personal with the serenity of nature, yet also encourages the challenge of outsmarting the fish.
It is not a sport that you can jump into one day, it takes a lot of research, skill and you will need to be prepared to spend a fair few pennies on the basic gear. Trout anglers typically fish in lakes that are stocked with thousands of trout, with the intention to take them home for some dinner. The best season to give Fly Fishing a go is between February and September, as the water gets warmer the fish tend to move around much more.
Spend level: £££+
