This part of our guide focuses on the recreational or sporting act of fishing, which is the activity of catching fish from bodies of water using various techniques such as angling, spearing, netting, or trapping.
Fishing is one of humanity's oldest practices. Its origins are in ancient times when early humans cast primitive nets and spears into flowing streams seeking sustenance. While the commercial fishing industry supplies the vast percentage of fish people consume today, the more personal, reflective pursuit of recreational fishing connects us with nature.
Fishing is as old as civilization. Early pictographs and archaeological finds testify to fishing as a critical survival skill. Ancient societies depended on fishing for sustenance and as a product for trade. Over the centuries, technological advancements transformed fishing from a subsistence activity to a thriving industrial enterprise. In many parts of the world, elaborate techniques and specialized tools were developed, leading to the industrial-scale operations that now feed millions, while recreational fishing evolved as a personal, often meditative, pursuit.
The commercial fishing sector operates on a massive, industrial scale, with fleets and trawlers traversing the oceans to deliver seafood to the global market. In contrast, recreational fishing is more intimate. It involves individuals, families, and communities engaging with nature for pleasure, connection, and challenge. Recreational anglers fish for the thrill of the catch, the joy of mastering various techniques, and the serenity of spending time in or on the banks of natural bodies of water.
Recreational fishing is characterized by the variety of environments it encompasses. The most accessible, perhaps, is freshwater fishing. Anglers vie for fish along lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, using techniques tailored to the predictable behaviors of the species that thrive in these waters. Available to those along the coast, saltwater fishing can take place along rugged coastlines or beyond the breakers in deep-sea expeditions, requiring an appropriate vessel. While most of the fish sought by recreational fishermen are wild and found in their natural habitat, there are also stocked bodies of water, man-made or naturally enhanced lakes and reservoirs managed by local or federal agencies. These bodies serve conservation and leisure purposes, ensuring that fish populations remain sustainable while providing opportunities for fishing.
The techniques employed in recreational fishing are as varied as the environments in which they are practiced. The classic rod and reel approach symbolizes the traditional image of an angler waiting patiently by the water's edge. Fly fishing involves casting intricate artificial flies that mimic a fish's natural prey, and demands skill and finesse. Bait fishing and lure fishing are techniques built on understanding target species' behavior and favored diet, often requiring both patience and creativity. More advanced methods like trolling and jigging allow for dynamic interaction with the aquatic ecosystem, as anglers move their bait through different layers of water, closely reading the signs of underwater activity.
Several organizations and clubs represent the interests of the fishing community and promote sustainable practices. Groups like the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) and national bodies like the American Sportfishing Association champion the rights and ensure the safety of recreational anglers, while advocating for responsible fishing practices. Regulatory agencies and non-profits focus on conservation and the responsible management of fishery resources. These organizations and agencies also foster community through competitions, educational programs, and conservation efforts, ensuring that the fishing heritage is preserved for future generations.
Because people are naturally competitive, fishing can also be a sport. Competition encourages people to refine their skills and places them in a better position to learn from others. For this reason, groups organize tournaments, set ethical standards, and provide a framework that balances competitive spirit with environmental stewardship.
The competitive aspect of sport fishing attracts a dedicated community of enthusiasts. Tournaments and other fishing events add a layer of excitement and public engagement to the activity.
Topics related to recreational or sport fishing are appropriate for this category.
Recommended Resources
American Sportfishing Association
Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, the ASA is a trade organization that represents the interests of the sportfishing industry. It advocates for fisheries conservation, access, and policies supportive of recreational fishing. The ASA also organizes ICAST, said to be the world's largest sportfishing trade show, and provides various resources to help businesses thrive in the industry. An organizational membership application is provided, along with contacts.
https://asafishing.org/
Although this website has not been updated in the past five years (2020), it is still up and running and contains information that may be valuable or at least interesting to those interested in bass fishing. It includes several photos and articles on various topics relating to bass and bass fishing, many of which have been submitted by readers. These include facts about bass, types of bass, and bass fishing reels, rods, tackle, lines and knots, lures, jigs, crankbaits, spoons, and spinnerbaits.
http://bassfishingandcatching.com
The Bassmaster Classic, Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, Bassmaster College Series, Women's Bassmaster Tour, and B.A.S.S. Nation are tournaments and fishing events sponsored by the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.), a fishing membership organization for more than half a million members. Geared toward bass fishermen, largely in the United States, B.A.S.S. publishes Bassmaster Magazine and other fishing publications, and also produces The Bassmasters weekly TV program.
https://www.bassmaster.com/
Aboard the Lucky Lady II with Captain John Carty, clients can fish for bluefish, striped bass, tuna, mackerel, and shark. Fishing charters from Cape Cod Bay Charters can be arranged for corporate groups, sports enthusiasts, bachelor or bachelorette parties, day trippers, and families. Clients can schedule a four-hour charter, or one as long as an eight-hour charter. The tackle and bait are provided as part of the rate, and no fishing license is necessary. Rates and online bookings are available.
https://www.ccbcharters.com/
The fly fishing guide service is based in Denver, Colorado. They offer fully guided and instructional fly fishing trips on both public and private trout waters, with half-day and full-day excursions, providing rental equipment, tackle, beverages, and even lunch on full-day trips. They also offer fishing lessons, which are featured on their website, along with a list of scheduled trips, rates, an introduction to their guides, fishing reports, photo galleries, and contacts.
https://coloradotrouthunters.com/
Founded by Tom Goodrich, a military veteran, in 2004, Fishing for Life is a youth program that seeks to empower young people to fund church-based programs for inner-city youth. Its flagship initiative is the annual Fish-A-Thon, which partners with businesses, the fishing community, and leaders of urban churches. Other programs include youth camps, ministry groups, fishing and outdoor activities for veterans, wounded warriors, and their families, and other programs and events.
https://fishingforlife.org/
FFI is an international non-profit organization based in Livingston, Montana. Founded in 1964 as the Federation of Fly Fishermen, it serves as an organized voice for fly fishers around the world. The organization represents all aspects of fly fishing, including the art of fly tying, casting, and protecting the natural systems that support healthy fisheries and their habitats. Membership benefits are noted, and its Guides & Outfitters Association is highlighted, along with schedules and contacts.
https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/
Subscriptions are available in print and digital formats, with digital access included with a paid print subscription. Single issues may also be purchased. The magazine covers fishing tips, gear reviews, destinations, and expert advice for anglers of all levels. It also has a television show, a podcast, and online content featuring various fishing techniques and strategies. Other resources on its site include recipes, gear reviews, and advertising opportunities.
https://www.in-fisherman.com/
A collaboration between two Maine guides who live in Millinocket year-round, Kathdin Fly & Trail Guides offers guided and unguided trips for hiking, backpacking, canoeing, and fly fishing in the Katahdin and 100-Mile Wilderness area. The guides provide services for fly fishing for brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass. Guided fly fishing can be booked online, through its contact page, or via email. The fishing choices, prices, and other details are featured.
https://www.katahdinflyandtrail.com/
Dedicated to fly fishing in Maine, the website features fishing reports, fly tying videos, a photo gallery, and streamflow data for various rivers, as well as a discussion forum powered by Invision Community. Although the forum is read-only for non-members, membership is free. A variety of fishing topics are under discussion, including fly fishing, still water fly fishing, salt water fishing, fly tying, fly patterns, two-handed rods, fishing conservation, and other topics.
https://www.maineflyfish.com/
National Youth Fishing Association
Based in Rogersville, Missouri, the NYFA is a premier youth fishing organization in the United States that offers tournament competitions, seminars, and learning experiences for middle and high school anglers across the Midwest. The organization provides structured fishing circuits with qualifying tournaments and a championship event in June. Memberships, schedules, rules, entry forms, results, standings, clubs, a photo gallery, and contacts are provided, including a contact form.
https://nationalyouthfishingassociation.com/
Home to the annual Puerto Vallarta International Sailfish & Marlin Fishing Tournament, these waters abound with billfish, jack, snapper, and wahoo. With 322 days a year of sunshine and an average temperature of 85°F, the water is the place to be. Puerto Vallarta Sportfishing offers fishing charters, as well as a discount card allowing savings at over 160 locations in Puerto Vallarta. Its fleet, the fish, sites, trips, and rates are posted, and a photo gallery is included.
https://www.puertovallartafishing.net/
Stylized StripersOnline, this is an online community dedicated to saltwater, striped bass, and surf fishing. It features active forums, articles on techniques, how-to guides, tide information, tackle reviews, and fishing reports. An online membership application and private member area are available. Powered by Invision Community, its community discussion forum features several topic areas, including fly fishing, boat fishing, freshwater fishing, tackle collectors, and buy-and-sell areas.
https://www.stripersonline.com/
Take Me Fishing (TakeMeFishing) has collected information about fishing and boating, types of fish, fishing licenses, and how-to guides to help newcomers and seasoned anglers make memorable experiences on the water. Find in-depth fishing and boating information for state resources and tutorials for fishing in different terrains and situations, including saltwater and freshwater, ice fishing, and boating. Places to boat and fish are highlighted, and an informational blog is included.
https://www.takemefishing.org/
A resource for fishing enthusiasts, Takkle covers various types of fishing, including fly fishing, freshwater fishing, ice fishing, surf fishing, and saltwater fishing. It offers guides, tips, buyer's guides, and recommendations on fishing gear and tackle, such as the best lures and equipment for different types of fish, including bass, pike, salmon, trout, tuna, and walleye. Fishing tips are also featured. Readers may subscribe to a newsletter to receive the latest fishing news.
https://takkle.com/
Established in 1959 by a group of 16 anglers interested in protecting trout in Michigan's Au Sable River, TU is now a national organization with more than 150,000 members organized into about 400 chapters in nearly every U.S. state. The non-profit is dedicated to the conservation of freshwater streams, rivers, and associated upland habitats for trout, salmon, and other aquatic species, and is currently headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It publishes Trout Magazine and other publications.
https://www.tu.org/
