Number 1. Always use ultra light fishing gear if you are fishing for trout. Too many times, anglers attempt to use medium-action gear when at the stream trying to snag trout. It’s a big mistake and won’t allow you to catch fish. Instead, you have to use an ultra light rod and reel and the lightest fishing line possible.

Personally, I’ve found that four-pound test mono filament line works best when fishing for trout. Using light line and gear are paramount for trout fishing, especially if you’re fishing small rivers and streams.

Number 2. Be aware of your shadow. Refrain from casting a shadow on the area you will be fishing, particularly when fishing in small rivers and streams. Casting a shadow is a certain way to scare away the larger, older trout from the area. Take my word for it, if you want to catch trout, you must be aware of your shadow.

Number 3. I have never found an artificial bait or lure that is more effective than a a plain old live worm when it comes to catching trout. For me, a live worm simply riding the current in a small river or stream will attract trout more often than not if they are around. The best way to rig a live worm for trout fishing is to use a set of ganged hooks. Ganged hooks and live worms as bait is the perfect combination for trout fishing.

Number 4. Using small spinners, in the 3-7/16 range, are terrific bait for catching trout. While effective in many trout fishing situations, the small spinners are perfect for fishing rivers and streams. Popping your rod tip while allowing the spinner to flow with the current can be especially effective. Using black, browns and other dark colors with gold blades is optimal. Be sure to attach your spinner to your line with a small barrel swivel for best results. Not only will it stop your line from twisting, but it will also ensure that your spinner works efficiently.

You should find that using any or all of these tricks of the trade will make you a much better trout angler. There you have it. Just put these tips into practice, as the sooner you do, the sooner you will be proudly displaying your catch.

This is my favorite site for Trout Fishing Tips

There are many different types of freshwater fish that are very popular with anglers. Once that receives great attention in Europe, but hasn’t caught on so much in the States, is carp. Carp fishing is still a very popular hobby, and one that is even growing in the U.S. There is one thing that carp anglers have in common regardless of where they are from: the need for good carp fishing tackle and equipment.

One of the most important parts of getting good gear is obviously the fishing rod. A good carp rod will be medium action, and long - generally at least six feet long, although longer can be better. This gives the strength and flexibility needed for carp fishing.

Right after the rod you need to consider the reel. All good reels are open faced, not closed faced, and can hold a great deal of line. At a very minimum, you should be able to spool 150 yards of 12 lb test. More is better, but 150 should be your minimum standard.

Obviously you’ll want to know what kind of bait to use. While carp will hit about anything, the preferred bait seems to be sticky smelly stuff. Think of the kind of bait that catfish would like, and you’re on the right track.

If you’re a beginning carp angler, you may have heard of pods. Pods are basically rod holders that many carpers use to get more than one line out there while waiting for the carp to bite. This isn’t a tool that beginning anglers need to worry about, but if carping becomes an obsession, it’s something to look at down the line.

Don’t forget about the fishing line, either. Good fishing line for carp is a minimum of 12 pound test line, and higher can be better. Many carp fishermen prefer line made from Kevlar.

A beginning carp fisher can get all the tackle and gear needed for a fairly inexpensive price. Between rod, reel, line, and bait you can start out for well under $100 in most areas. This is a fantastic fresh water fish to pursue, and one that lives up to its reputation as a fighter.

Every angler knows you have to have the right gear to get the job done. If you want to really enjoy carp fishing, get the right tackle and gear early on and you’ll be glad you did.

And if you would like to find additional resources on carp fishing gear, please feel free to visit that page, or take a look at this carp fishing equipment guide.