Fishing is a perfect way to relax and unwind while engaging in an activity that is fun for friends and family. Remember that time you caught your Dad’s favorite cap when you cast your line? Or how happy you were when you caught your first fish? Fall is the perfect time to start collecting new fish stories. Most Texas fish are like we are—they don’t want to move much in triple digits, but they flourish in cooler temps.
So grab your gear and your people and head out to catch (and release if that’s how you roll). And if you haven’t tried fishing before, then why not? It’s safe and fun, and just about anyone can enjoy it — follow these few tips to stay safe and have a good time.
Safety First
First, check the weather. Wear sunscreen and comfortable but protective clothing. Check your gear to ensure it works and that you have everything you need. Of course, you need the basics: a rod and reel (or a pole to fish as Opie did), bait, a cooler or bucket, and hooks, lures, and line. But you should also take water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a cutting tool for line adjustments.
Rigging and Fishing Knots
Learning to choose and tie the best knot for each hook, lure, and rig helps improve your skill and hopefully catch more fish. Start with the easy improved clinch knot. This is considered best for lures, hooks, swivels, clips, and flies. To tie this knot, make five turns of the tag end around the standing end before running the tag end back through the formed loop. Use a uni or Duncan knot to tie an eyed hook to a leader. You can use it with braided or mono-filament fishing line and tie together lines of unequal width (get it? “uni” for unifying). Try many more knots as you get better.
Choosing the Right Bait
Bait is a big deal. Most experts say variety is best. Start with a few different ones, and consider these tips to help you choose the right bait for the right trip. First, which fish do you want? Match your bait to the fish. So, if you want a catfish, then find a medium-sized bait in a muted, natural color. Catfish are bottom feeders, so their prey won’t be brightly colored. But the opposite is true if you are fishing in saltwater.
Next, where are you going? Experts advise using artificial bait for fish in ponds and lakes but live for saltwater. Then there’s the weather. If it’s cold and cloudy, less light will get through the surface, so use darker bait on overcast days and lighter in sunshine.
When you live in Lariat, you can rack up the fish stories as often as you like. Imagine the memories you’ll make while casting your line from our beautiful dock and pond and the lessons you’ll be able to teach or learn. Find your new home here and always have a fishing spot to hang out with your family and friends. Learn more about our planned amenities: https://lariatlibertyhill.com/community/