We All Start Somewhere
I wasn't born with a fishing rod in hand, and I didn't immediately fall in love with the sport. Quite the opposite!
The first time I went fishing was with my parents. My dad had bought all the fishing gadgets required and had only one goal in mind: to catch some fish. The only problem? The fish didn’t bite. My expectations were very high, and I found the overall experience to be fairly disappointing.
Several years later, I tried fishing again with a relative who showed me another way to tackle the sport. For him, fishing is a stress-free, goal-free sport: just a day out on a boat, in the sunshine, on a beautiful lake. And even if you don’t catch anything, it's a wonderful way to spend time together, enjoying nature and the tranquility of a beautiful spot. That time, I was hooked.
Why Fishing?
Fishing is now my favorite way to enjoy nature. I love the feeling of calm it brings me: a kind of ritual connection with the elements. And although it is a relaxing sport, it also gives me a great adrenaline rush. When you throw your line in the water, you never know when you’ll feel a bite or what you'll catch!
Fishing in the city also allows you to connect with your community. People often approach me to find out what I'm hoping to catch, and many of them tell me that seeing me inspires them to take out their old fishing rods.
In My Tackle Box
When you’re just starting out, it's completely normal to be unsure where to begin. Don't hesitate to ask for help! If you are starting from scratch, a starter kit will be your best ally.
Here are the essentials that are always in my tackle box: my fishing license, several types of lures, spare hooks, a good multi-tool, fishing gloves, floats (essential if you are fishing in a rocky area), extra fishing line, split shots (to weight the line), and quick-release swivels. I also always take my fishing rod (obviously!) and a bucket to carry my fish home. Oh, and a snack!
Preparation Is Key
Clothing
☐ Hat or baseball cap
☐ Fishing gloves
☐ Sunglasses
☐ Rain coat
☐ Long-sleeved shirt
☐ Fishing boots
☐ Swimsuit (optional)
☐ Fishing vest (optional)
Equipment
☐ Fishing rod
☐ Tackle box
☐ Fishing bucket
☐ Fishing net
☐ Cooler
☐ Lures
☐ Hooks
☐ Fishing line and sinkers
☐ Floats
☐ Multi-function tool
☐ Swivels
Food and Drinks
☐ Water bottle
☐ Snack
☐ Lunch
Health and Safety
☐ Lifejacket
☐ Lip balm
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Mosquito repellent
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Tissues
☐ Toilet paper
☐ Garbage bag
☐ Whistle
☐ Phone
☐ First aid kit
Attitude and Well-being
☐ Positive state of mind
☐ Realistic expectations
☐ Love of nature
☐ Time to relax
