Hook & Line

If a person doesn't have access to a boat or canoe for fishing the middle of the lake, and doesn't have a net, then what is a person to do? I plan on having at least one spool each of 4 lb. and 6 lb. test fishing line, an assortment of hooks - 3 packages of 3 sizes each, lead fishing weights - a small dispenser pack of assorted weights is inexpensive and easy to carry, a stringer for the fish, and a small tool for extracting the hook if the fish swallows the bait. All of this can be carried in a sandwich size ziplock baggie, and weighs very little. As for a fishing pole, any small tree limb about 1/4 diameter or larger will do the trick, just ask Huck Finn!

Another alternative I'm contemplating is a small, lightweight telescoping fishing rod, and reel generally used by backpackers. A fancy one with a fairly nice spinning reel runs about $25. I also just saw an "everything you need to go fishing" kit at Walmart the other day. For $19 you get a telescoping rod and reel, line, hooks, a fish stringer, weights, bobbers, and rubber worm bait. And of course you would use any of these fishing setups from the banks of the lake, pond, or river. Bottom fish for Catfish, or Carp. Even Trout like to go for worms as bait. Don't have any worms? Any large insect that you can stick on a hook will work for bait, and it beats eating the insect for dinner!

Offered by Brent.

Dynamite works well! So do blasting caps, the only problem currently is that the Fish and Wildlife department take a dim view of it for some reason.

Offered by Steve.

Jigs will be the best lures. Order a jig lead mold and thousands of hooks, due to snags and break offs. Lead can be acquired from the junk yard. Buy a Penn Reel or similar model. All the same type, spare parts will be sparse. Ande tourament line is one of the best. Your line is the weakest link. Learn the knots, with out the knowledge your meal will swim off. Spray reels with WD - 40 or substitute to prevent parts from freezing. Plus don't forget feathers and plastic pieces to dress the ends of the jigs. You can lose 10 jigs on a day fishing trip, remember you are planning for 12 years.

Offered by Robert.