Who hasn't had a thought of just kicking back and taking up fishing as a sport or hobby? (They give a lot of money and other prizes in those fishing tournaments.) If not, it's time you did some thinking about it. Fishing is relaxing and it gets you out into the beautiful great outdoors where you feel as if you're one with nature. (Now I know you like that idea.) I find that there's nothing as great as sitting on the bank of a creek under a willow tree and leaving the stress of the world behind. This alone can add years to your life. There is also the exercise you get from walking to the fishing spot. I personally don't care much for just exercising to be exercising but a brisk walk to a fishing hole is great. It's balm for the soul and in today's stressful world, it's a great way to let off a little steam. It's also a great hobby for those of all ages. Kids love to fish, so after you've been out a few times, take a kid along for a day of fishing fun. You will find a great deal of joy in introducing a kid to the joy of fishing.

If you've never tried fishing, you don't know what you're missing. Not only does it bring you closer to nature, there's the thrill of the catch. You simply can't imagine the thrill of standing on the bank of a pond or stream, your rod bending under the weight of a good catch. This one's a fighter and you take your time, allowing the fish to tire itself out before reeling it into shore. When you finally land it, you realize you've just caught the biggest fish of your life. It's an awesome feeling and one you'll never know unless you give fishing a try. You could try Fly Fishing in a rushing cold water stream. I know you have seen video or pictures and wondered what that would be like. How about a trip to Alaska and do some Salmon fishing, where the big ones are, and again the beautiful nature that would surround you.

Now that your interest has been piqued, and you know it is, you may be thinking that you don't have a clue about how to fish or you have only a limited experience. If that's the case, the tips you will find here will help. If you'd like to learn how to fish or get better at it, and you know you would, there are a few things you can do:

- Do your research on the sport of fishing. The local library has many how-to books and fishing magazines. There are many resources in the library that will help educate you on the sport of fishing.

- Go online. There are hundreds of websites that give instructions on fishing gear, baits and where and when to fish and where to find the species you are aiming for.

- Family members or friends who are avid angler get them to take you along the next time they go fishing, experience is a good teacher. For this you will need some basic equipment, rod, reel, hooks and bait. Do not buy a lot of expensive gear until you determine whether or not you enjoy fishing.

- If you wish to take professional fishing lessons, check with guide services and fishing stores in your area. They can often provide you with the names of professionals who will teach you how to fish.

- Check with your local Conservation or wildlife service. Often there is a fishing day where beginners gather to learn the basics of fishing.

There is not a bad time to fish and you never know what you might catch. Certain species are more active near dawn and dusk when they feed. Others will bite any time of the day. Some species are more active at certain times of the year, but really you can fish all year round. If you live in a climate that has four seasons, you might consider taking up ice fishing at some point. Really the time of year you should fish all depends on the species you are after.

Fishing licenses are required in most locations. These can be purchased at fishing tackle stores, Conservation and Wildlife Services. Cost varies by location. Fishing licenses are not usually required for children. Check always the regulations. If you are planning to fish on private property, be sure to get permission from the owner. Entering someone's property to fish without permission is classed as trespassing. Be courteous and if permission is denied, move on.

If you follow the advice in this article, you will soon be enjoying fishing as a sport or hobby. If you enjoy the sport initially, you can hone your skills and move on to more advanced techniques and fishing tournaments.

About the Author:

William McNutt, retired engineer, fisherman, and website builder, lives in Texas. He is the owner and webmaster of http://fishing.mcntc.com on which you will find much more on the sport of fishing and fishing equipment.