LifeStyle

Fishing: More than a Hobby, Better Known as Sport

Fishing: More than a Hobby, Better Known as Sport

No matter where you live, the chances that someone in your surrounding is a passionate fisherman is huge. Millions of people enjoy the activity of fishing, and they are highly passionate about it. They spend a lot of time in nature and love catching fish.

This activity is equally considered a hobby and a sport. Many people will go to the nearby lakes, rivers, and ocean shores to try and catch some fish, but others have a more competitive spirit, and they’ll try to beat someone else in the amount and size of fish caught.

In this article, we’re talking more about the activity of fishing. Is it a hobby, is it a sport, and does it really matter what you will call it while you enjoy doing it? Read on and see more about it while we answer some of the most commonly asked questions.

1. What is fishing?

Fishing used to be a way of life for many people, and today it still is across some parts of the planet. Many people are still modern fishermen, and they earn their living by catching the fish we love eating in restaurants and at home.

People used to fish since prehistoric times, some 40,000 years ago. It used to be an activity that provided life. Fish meant food on the table, and no one was hungry, which is why most cities were near oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Modern-day fishing is done with modern equipment, and big companies handle the work, while individuals only do it for fun or sport. They use a rod with a line attached to the reel. The end of the line has a hook and a bait. Different types of fishing will require more equipment, like the float or the sinker.

2. Who’s eligible to be a fisherman?

Anyone with enough will and the proper equipment is eligible to be a fisherman. They only need to get the license from the authorities and mind the season when they are allowed to do it. Different places will have terms and regulations that need to be followed because fish reproduce in some parts of the year, which is not the best time to go fishing.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, what sex you are, or anything else. You just need to love the sport of fishing, and you’re eligible to do it. Get yourself the essential equipment, and you can go out there and try to catch some.

3. What does it take to become one?

Aside from owning the proper equipment, you’ll also need to learn the art of fishing. It’s not as simple as some might think. Different fish require a different approach, and you can’t use the same equipment for every type.

For example, if you’re trying to catch the popular whiting, you need to use special whiting lures that are different from most. You also need different floats when fishing in the river, ocean, or lake. The size of the fish requires a different thickness of the line. Smaller types will be scared of a thicker line, while bigger ones won’t even notice the bait.

It means you need to mind all details when trying to do a great job. Find a great tutorial online, or hire someone to teach you, and you’re instantly ready to become a fisherman. Hop in your vehicle and drive to the nearest lake. Lakes are best for beginners.

4. Can you compete in fishing?

There are many sporting events in which people compete amongst who will catch the most fish under the same circumstances. Referees are taking a close eye on what’s happening, and there’s no way of cheating, which makes this sport amazing.

Some pro fishermen are millionaires. They attend tournaments in which the best prizes are worth millions of dollars. For example, one of the most prestigious billfish tournaments, the White Marlin Open, has a price pool of $6.3 million. One of the richest fishermen is Kevin VanDam, who made over $7 million from fishing tournaments.  

5. Fishing is a loved activity across the entire globe

The estimates say there are around 60 million recreational fishermen in the US alone. They boost the nation’s economy by around $115 billion every year. US citizens are not the only ones in the world so much in love with the sport and activity of fishing.

The entire globe is crazy about it, and some parts of the world consider fishing much more than just a recreational activity. Some families have regular weekend fishing trips to their favorite spots across the country, and they love fishing. If you think this is something for you, feel free to try it out next weekend.

Tags