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Jan Christopher Porinchak is a middle school art teacher, Scientific Illustrator, and Cornell Cooperative Certified Master Naturalist. He holds level 1 archery coaching certification through USA Archery. Contact Jan for archery instruction, illustration work, and for educational natural history hikes for your youth group at NatureWorks, Jan’s work can be viewed at: natureworks-illustration.com he can be reached at eachtowel1@verizon.net. |
| Spring is here, and naturally a mans attentions turn to . . . fishing! First, the fishing rod. I suggest one in the 7’ range with a “medium action.” Action, refers to the flexibility of the rod. There are several types of reel. A spinning reel is a good all around choice, and easier to master than conventional style reels. Make sure your rod is made to accommodate the type of reel you purchase. Many types of lines for your reel are available. Monofillament or “Mono” is best to begin with, as the knots are easier to tie. 6lb test is sufficient for most fishing situations, while 8lb can be used if you expect to be fishing for larger game in weedy bodies of water. The spinning reel fits in the reel seat on the underside of the rod, and should be cast and reeled in with the reel slung under the rod. A great way to start out is by targeting so called “pan fish.” These are small to medium sized fish that fit great in a frying pan! Perch, Sunfish, catfish and Crappie are pan fish which can be easily caught with bait. Rigging is simple. Attach a “bobber” (float) to the line using the clips provided on the bobber. Next, attach a # 8 hook about 18” below the bobber. If you find your hook and bait are dredging up debris from the bottom, raise the hook depth by sliding the bobber closer to the hook. Bait for panfish can include earthworms, crickets, mealworms, and small minnows. Most of these are available at your tackle shop or pet store. If you are fishing for catfish, replace the bobber with a small weight called a “split shot”. This can be clipped directly to the line, and will sink your bait to the bottom were catfish lurk. Trout are attracted to small, shiny, brightly colored spinners. These are metal lures with blades which flutter attractively when retrieved. They are sometimes adorned with fur, and usually have treble (three) hooks. Use light line when fishing for this species. Trout can also be caught with bait and bobber set ups. Bass are the bruisers of freshwater, you will want heavier line when fishing for them. Many styles of lures are designed to catch bass. Poppers float on the surface. Cast them out, and retrieve with short tugs to cause the lure to “pop” and gurgle enticingly. Soft lures which mimic worms, salamanders, and frogs are worked slowly along the bottom to draw a strike. Minnow shaped “stick baits” are effective in weed free waters. They come in styles which swim at various depths when reeled in. You may wish to purchase a lure bag to store your new fishing “toys.” Round out the supplies needed with a pair of scissors for cutting line, fishing pliers for removing hooks from fish, and a tape measure to make sure your catch is of legal size if you plan on keeping them. Finally, don’t forget to purchase a fresh water license, which is required. Enjoy this new sport – I’m sure you’ll be as hooked as I am! |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 