beginner
How to Start Fishing: A Complete Beginner's Guide
New to fishing? Learn exactly what gear to buy, how to rig a bobber, tie a knot, cast, set the hook, and land your first fish in this complete beginner's guide.
Getting Started
New to fishing? Everything you need for your first trip — licenses, basic gear, ethics, and landing your first fish.
10 guides
beginner
Basic Fishing Gear for Beginners
A practical beginner's guide to basic fishing gear: the right rod, reel, line, hooks, bait, and tools to catch fish on your very first trip out.
beginner
Catch and Release: Best Practices That Keep Fish Alive
Learn proven catch and release techniques to keep fish alive and healthy. A beginner's guide to handling, hooks, reviving, and releasing fish the right way.
beginner
Fishing Ethics and Conservation for Responsible Anglers
Learn fishing ethics and conservation basics every responsible angler should know, from proper catch and release to stopping invasive species and respecting the water.
beginner
Fishing Licenses Explained: What You Need and Why
A beginner's guide to fishing licenses: who needs one, freshwater vs saltwater, resident vs non-resident, special stamps, where to buy, and how to stay legal.
beginner
How to Set Up a Fishing Rod, Step by Step
A clear, beginner-friendly guide to setting up a fishing rod and reel, from assembling the blank to spooling line and tying on a hook the right way.
beginner
How to Use a Landing Net to Land More Fish
Learn how to use a landing net the right way to land more fish, prevent lost catches, and protect fish you plan to release. A beginner-friendly guide.
beginner
How to Cast a Spinning Rod: Overhead, Sidearm and Pitch
Learn how to cast a spinning rod accurately. Grip, finger position, the overhead cast step by step, sidearm and pitch for tight cover, plus fixes for wind knots.
beginner
How to Unhook a Fish Safely (Including Deep Hooks)
How to unhook a fish safely without hurting it or yourself. Correct grips by species, pliers and forceps technique, treble hooks, and when to cut the line.
beginner
How to Keep Live Bait Alive: Worms, Minnows and Shrimp
Keep live bait alive longer with the right temperature, aeration and water. Storage for nightcrawlers, minnows, shiners and shrimp, plus transport tips that work.