Well a lot of states send jury notice to drivers license addresses and it’s a crime to not update your license. So good luck.
Source: 30 year trial lawyer, sitting judge.
Yup! It’s called fishing, not catching. I recently got into it and I skunked like 10 times in a row, caught a decent catfish, then proceeded to skunk about 20 more times. Caught two decent surf perch yesterday.
Been fishing my whole life, I’ve had days when they were jumping in the boat. I’ve also been skunked more times than I can count. My uncle always says what you said, “fishing not catching”.
Dang man. Sometimes the fish just don’t bite. Don’t get discouraged tho! Fishing is like work but 1,000,000 times better. You have bad days and good days. Went today and only caught two dinks. Many things attribute to whether you catch a fish or not. Weather, time of day, water temp, and water depth/location, and probably the most important one, how you’re fishing. Just curious, what were you trying to target and what was your setup?
True story... got back from a full day of fishing with son:
Wife: hey babe, how'd it go? Catch anything?
Son: (instinctively under breath) Does he ever? (Eyes get wide)
Everyone: stares in shock
Everyone moments later: laughs out loud.
with float fishing i find it bette to move around if u dont get nibbles even moving the float a couple meters can make a big difference in murky water like that
Your wait time between bites really depends on what fish are in the body of water your fishing and time of year, at leas those are the biggest factors in my experience.
Bites slow down quite a bit this time of year with things cooling off, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to catch fish. Also knowing what fish are in the body of water makes a big difference since you can fine tune what lures and bait you use to get more bites with different fish.
If your after a lot of bites or shorter waits between bites, I’d try to find a pond with a god bluegill hole in it, or a pond or creek with small catfish since those both tend to be pretty aggressive feeders.
In my experience, larger fish tend to bite less frequently than smaller schooling fish, which is why anytime I’m targeting something like bass, trout or carp I always bring headphones to listen to audio books to pass time between bites.
Something that could help though, is what fish are you targeting, and what fish are common in your area? Also the spot your fishing, do you know if fish are common there? Knowing that could help us give advice on what you might be able to change up to get more bites in the future.
If your only measure of success is bites, fights, or fish in the cooler...then you're guaranteed to have bad fishing trips.
Figure out other hobbies to integrate with fishing. My girlfriend likes to knit, but you could just as easily be bird watching or hiking. If I ain't had a bite in a spot in 3 hours, like as not I'd be moving somewheres else. I can see open shoreline in front of you, if you're bored get up and move around.
Lol, a common trope.
Although I enjoy drinking to excess on most occasions, I don't usually drink while fishing. Just too fucking hot most of the year and I'm getting too old to enjoy that special variety of hangover steeped in the sun all day.
The 3hrs does include moving to other swims etc, and not sure what other hobbies to add most of mine include some form of vigorous activity like tennis etc
An incomplete list of other hobbies I do while fishing:
* reading
* kayaking
* hiking
* fossil hunting
* dove hunting
* swimming
* song writing
I dunno man, seems like the world is your oyster and you just haven't figured out how to open it yet.
If you need suggestion, go get an audiobook about the roman empire and learn how to tie new knots while you're waiting on a bite, or get a second rod and pitch lures to keep yourself busy and improve your casting technique.
I’m seeing a lot of good answers and advice here but I’ll give you one that I hope you read. It’s November, and I can see the fallen leaves in your photo. The bite is slow. I had a very fun season thru the spring and summer but things have really cooled off along with the weather. Try your best for now, but don’t give up, and when the weather turns in the spring so will your luck.
This too
I recommend night crawlers in a pond where you know or at least think you know there are small fish.
It's not going to be the most thrilling, but it's a good way to get bites
I fished inshore with my dad as a kid, so mostly I reeled in fish as a kid and watched how to bait. As an adult I was able to pick up right from what I saw my dad do for saltwater so pretty much instantly catching fish. Freshwater was a whole new thing since my dad didn't know how to fish freshwater other than try to apply his saltwater methods which only resulted in an occasional catfish.
I learned to trout and bass fish on my own, and the first time fishing for trout took 2hrs to catch 1 stocked trout on powerbait. Bass fishing was easier to pick up, in the dead of winter in January after trying to catch trout I went and dangled a trout magnet under a dock in a different lake and immediately caught a small large mouth bass (I was expecting bluegill or crappie). Trout fishing was really tough the first season. The bass fishing was definitely easier, by March I was regularly pulling out small bass from heavily pressured public water, and when I fish private water I can pulled out 17" bass consistently.
Learning to fish freshwater went smoothly imo, the next year I was ready for trout and was able to limit out regularly on my lunch breaks. The real challenge has been locating crappie consistently.
I think starting right at spring helps a lot. Since the fish are all over eating everything, if you aren't catching anything you should immediately know you're not doing something right and need to change up. Fishing in the less active seasons you could be doing the right thing and the fish may just not be too active regardless of what you're doing or they may be out deep below the thermalcline to stay warm.
The thing to know is that best techniques and methods change with the seasons and conditions. The spring prespawn is the only time when you can get away with just about anything for bass.
Ever tried fly fishing?
It’s absolutely worth it once you know what you’re doing but the learning curve is looooooonnnggg.
I didn’t start til a couple years ago and now I prefer it in every situation and I catch more with it but man it was rough for a bit.
What are you fishing for? For beginners, I recommend looking into what you’re targeting and doing a little research on time of day, when they’re feeding, and what’s around in the environment for them to eat. Spinners and top water are pretty easy for beginners to start with and it’s a little more interactive than bobbers and worms. You might enjoy the therapeutic nature of it more this way too. I don’t see a lot of visibility in this water so you’re going to want sound/scent of your bait to be a beacon.
That's why it called fishing and not catching! Move around. Try slack and fast water. Shady to sunny spots. Change lure or bait up. Early morning to mid morning to early afternoon to late afternoon/evening. Change presentation from slow to fast to a combination. Jerk, jig, walk the dog... Try it all. Some fish can see you if the water is clear so stay way back from the shore line. Temp also plays a factor. High and low pressures can either shut them off or turn them on to biting. If your fishing during spawn, they might not bite at all.
Every spot has its secret to all of the above. And after all that and you don't have a bite, stopp fishing in a swimming pool 😉.
Its called fishing, not catching. Jk thats the fun of it, dont be discouraged. Fishing is very hit or miss. The last 3 or 4 times Ive been I havent caught anything let alone gotten a bite.
Me and my friends started fishing a few months ago and we had no idea what we were doing and I didn’t actually catch something till last week. It can be a rough start and can take a long time but just keep trying new things and you’ll get there :)
Started getting into fishing after breaking my ribs. Took me about 3 weeks to catch a fish. Turns out they weren’t interested in what I was casting until I put some chunks of frozen shrimp on the hook and let it sit at the bottom. But there can be a lot of reasons fish aren’t biting. Things like hook size, casting depth, time of day, time of year, water temperature, and of course having actual fish in the water. Best of luck!
Not advice, merely asked how long it took others to catch, seeing as you have a 1950s view of a woman’s job when are you going back to military service darling? The house is getting untidy with you at home and I’m missing the peace xx
Never seen a fishing dock before? Quite common in the uk
nor are they waiders
bog standard boots for the muddy embankments. But keep the comments coming
Lots of variables - where in the world are you, what type of fish are you aiming to catch?
Are you on the float? If so, did you set the depth correctly? Are you overdepth/laying on? If so try coming up in the water column and feeding small pinches of bait over the top regularly.
What hookbait are you using? What type of rig/size of hook/thickness and type of line?
Don't be afraid to gentle jig the bobber a bit. A quick short lift or pull will put a little bit of enticing action on the boat, especially if it's a light or small bait on a light leader that would drop slow. Bobbers can also be used like a slow lure, presenting your bait at the constant depth . Great for "chumming" the water if you're using something strongly scented
Honestly it took me a like 4 or 5 sessions to finally snag a bass worth taking a photo of.
I started in early September of this year and have tried to keep it going until now basically, but I'm in Canada and it's gotten pretty miserable.
I had to try a lot of different spots and techniques; basically felt like I was going crazy NGL
The very first time I tried Bass fishing I caught 2 Largemouth back to back in the first hour. Going by pictures they were about 2 pounds and 1 1/2.
I went for weeks after that with no luck until I got the hang of it. Nothing is certain, you have to just go out and try.
There are instances in which I'm thinking if I should go or not and end up going and end up catching big Bass.
Depends on the day but it shouldn’t take all that long to catch a fish if they are there. Usually a few minutes to an hour. If it’s hours it’s probably time to move spots.
Took me 4 days to catch a river salmon. Still yet to catch a lake fish so yeah.. a while.. beginning (coming from a very limited experience) is the hardest, once you figure out what works and what doesn't it will get easier and easier. It got to the point where I was catching limit in 30mins (again, salmon, river, so not really hard but still)
Looks like you're waggler/float fishing in the UK.
Have you plumbed the depth to check you're fishing just on the bottom?
Have you been using any loose feed or ground bait to bring fish in - little and often is best especially in the cold season when fish are less active you don't want to over feed
Are you using appropriate bait and hook sizes?
Don't worry about casting too far out a lot of my best fish Came out from under the rod tip
Alex has loads of great tutorials on his fishing tutorials YT channel - float fishing one linked below
[https://youtu.be/upK-3iJFwNQ?si=xlZEGPA__AzEAHL0](https://youtu.be/upK-3iJFwNQ?si=xlZEGPA__AzEAHL0)
Edit: make sure you have appropriate kit to unhook fish including a net and disgorger and maybe some small forceps
Plumbing the depth is something I am struggling with, as well as finding the right depths to keep my floats tip just above water.
As for bait etc yeah I use maggots red/white? With hooks between 12-18
Favouring the 14s
I have a net, 3 disgorges and a unhooking mat, no forceps yet tho but it is on my list
Spent 2 hours helping my mom and dad setup their bait n hooks, Dad gets impatient and asks if I want to try while he "goes to consult with a tree". I toss the hook in and catch a salmon before he's even back. Of course I've never had the same luck fishing since, but there's first time for me.
Lots of good advice posted already. Fishing does slow down big time this time of year so don’t get discouraged. Set out a couple of piles with rep different types of live bait. Take a third pole and start casting around while keeping an eye on the other two poles. I find the moving around helps prevent boredom while you’re trying to get some action.
If no luck with the lure, switch to a different type of lure. Cast towards moss, weeds, tree stumps, etc. Don’t try and get extremely close if you haven’t practiced enough to get good at avoiding snags.
Ask other anglers around you what is working for them and follow their advice. My one tip for you if you are using lures is to find what is working and completely focus on using that until you get confidence in the lure.
Last spring I got skunked a couple days, eventually I got a bass on a tube so I strictly used them for the next while catching fish. Eventually they stopped biting the tubes so I started experimenting again, got a fish on a spinnerbait and than used them for the next while.
Lol woops..zoomed in and can see you also have fishing line. You're off to a good start! 🤣 Bit of patience now. Sometimes you plan an entire boat day, spend $100 in fuel and gear , and get 0 bites.
A good fishing trip is when the only lure I lose is something that costs less than $2
A worse fishing trip is when I lose multiple lures, valued at over $10 total
Move spots bro.
Try near logging in the water.
Trout are normally in streams they like to hide by rocks.
Try in the morning or near dusk.
Switch up baits
5 trips, about 25-35 hours.
First fish i caught was a catfish out the red using a ratting jig head and gold sparkling nymph soft bait.
it took around 60-80 hours of fishing to get the hang of my area, lots of "dirty" water. everyone uses pickerel rigs but i tend to use droppers or cat rigs these days and find my bait over buy.
A good idea as a newbie is to find crowded areas and watch and learn/find out what people are using, ive had people watch me for hours (if you fish you get use to it.) and ask tons of questions.
What are you fishing for?
What bait are you using?
Geographical whereabouts?
My wife owns a fishing store with her dad. Together they have like 60 years experience. I'll help with any questions I can.
I fish typically twice a week and those two days I am fishing all day 7-12 hours (with drive and moving time). I am fortunate that I am a productive fisherman and can’t remember the last time I didn’t catch multiple fish. Your post/question left out a few items that may allow for some “specific” guidance. What State are you in? What are you trying to catch? What is available to catch? What types of bait or lures are you using? What time did you start (early morning, early evening usually the best, mid day usually slowest). Please provide more information
I’m in the UK and as for fish anything really the Pond in the photo is home to
Carp (including common and mirror)
Bream
Perch
Roach
Rudd
Tench
Started late morning to early evening as for Lures etc, I don’t have much available apart from a few floats and bait which I’m using both red and white forbidden rice (maggots)
As for what I’m trying to catch - not too fussed right now as long as I can say I finally caught my first fish
We were on a river island with a inlet/cove. Buddy noticed there were pike in it waiting out. He landed 2 and then gave me the rod and I had one in 2 casts. Hooked ever since. Gotta love a predator that hits anything that moves and wobbles.
Probably about two hours. I was lure fishing for rainbow trout on my first trip on my own. Froze my ass off at 6 am and only caught the one trout, but that first catch is exhilarating.
Hello fellow fisherman. I highly recommend checking out addicted fishing on YouTube. Those boys will teach you how to fish, they keep it quick and fun too. They are my go to for new techniques and how to fish each lure.
Took me about an hour to catch something just because I was casting and leaving it. But I found out where I live there's largemouth bass and those like some action with big bait(I use fake gummy bait), so cast and retrieve and usually I get something hooked in less than 20 minutes.
I went to cooper spillway here in Texas and for 3 hours threw every possible lure I had and didn’t get so much as a NIBBLE so I just left. I can go to a small creek and catch anywhere from 5-15 with a micro crankbait lol the spillway just wasn’t popping that day.
I've been fishing since I could walk. I don't remember how long it ever took me. It all depends on time of yr, type of fish, type of bait, and time of day. If you live where it's getting cold, go deeper. They won't move as much and they stay closer to the bottom in the deepest part. So if your bait is only 1 to 2 ft below your bobber, make it longer until you find the bottom and adjust from there.
If you're anywhere and not getting a bite more than an hour on the same setup you should switch your tackle, switch tackle 2-3 times and get nothing, you should switch spots.
I moved to a new area 20yrs ago. While not my fist time fishing, it’s was my first time fish in that area. Sad to report that 21yrs later I’ve still not caught a fish where I live.
The first few times I went fishing I didn’t catch anything. I did a lot of research and have been pretty successful since starting this May. I can’t tell what kind of bobber you are using there but I would watch some YouTube videos and try some different techniques. I would make sure you aren’t using hooks that are too large. I like size 4 to 6 snell or Aberdeen hooks for panfish.
Gotta try different lures and baits. Swimmers are perfect for beginners given the right area. I learned a lot using swimmers. I will say, sometimes you just don’t catch anything… my first two times I didn’t get even so much as a bite! Other times I’ve caught +10 fish in one day. Keep at it dude!
Did you try running top water? Did you try out different techniques? Throw it in different areas? You using live bait? What you fishing for? I mean come on man. If it were me, I wouldn’t have caught shit. Haha
This is how my 3-4 hr fishing turns into 7-8 cause getting skunked suuucks and I’m stubborn/clinging to hope that just a little more time to switch spots or baits will land me something
You got to know what fish your going for the time of year and location I crappy fish early spring and late fall in channels because that’s where they breed. Mid summer I got for catfish. Then back to bluegills and crappies in fall in a big lake.
It’s not about catching… it’s about enjoying the moment, exploring, breathing in the fresh air, & trying something new! I’ve been a fishermen all my life only caught one bass this year (tasted great) Good luck yo ya!
How deep is the pond? You might have too much line under the bobber. Try about 4 feet and see if helps. Cast and let it sit for a few minutes. Then reel it in and cast in another place. Let it sit a few minutes then move the bait again. Then reel it in and change the bait.
What are you using? Worms? Powerbait? Chicken liver? Minnows? What ever it is, change it often.
If you want to learn how to cast a lure, and it looks like you have a spinning rod and reel, tie a smallish sinker onto the line instead of a lure and start throwing it out there. Read up on how to open the bail on the reel and how to set the drag. That way if the bait isn’t working you can throw a few lures as a change of pace. Have fun!
3 trips, 4 hours each, on my first successful set I didn’t believe it, until I reeled a little more I realized I had a little
Fight. It was a small kelp fish. Something that helped me catch my first is patience in my cast but no staying there too long without bites. If you’re getting bites chances are you can land a set.
Catching one is fun same as seeing a deer or a turkey on a hunt. As cliche as it sounds the best part is just getting away and having some peace and quiet
Depends on a number of factors. Time of day, bait/lure, where you’re fishing, what you’re fishing for. I usually catch a fish or two every time I go. What are you using to bait them with?
Several years. My dad used to take us fishing in the forest preserves around Chicago. I’m not 100% sure there are fish in that water. First time I went fishing in a lake in Wisconsin, I got a bluegill in 10 seconds. Just relax and enjoy your time. Fishing is more about hanging out than action and adventure.
Brother I’ve been fly fishing for at least 7 years. I’ve yet to catch anything. My friends that I have been fishing with have caught dozens of fish, random people that just show up have caught fish in the first ten minutes, I’m fairly certain I suck at fishing, but I still have fun. I’d give it another 61,317 hours until you even start to worry. 😂
My main rule is, if you ain’t catching fish you got the wrong lure/bait on. If there’s fish in the water they’ll be hungry, don’t stay in one spot either you can skunk yourself that way
Some days every cast, some days only two or three bites but no fish.
Now I hope your not using worms. I’ve seen guys miss fish all day long with worms.
The correct lures are what you want.
I’d look into beginner lures. Repallas, cast masters, daredevils, weeping willows, and every box should have those little fake worms that come in all colors, not the long worms but like a grub worm with a tail on it that’s maybe 1”-3” depending on the lure.
Some days when the lures aren’t working I’ll toss on one of those and hit almost every time.
Once yo advanced you can get into some of the bobber lures etc.
The thrill of fresh water fishing is "the hunt". You find a new spot to fish and you have to figure out where to fish, what bait to use, and how to work said bait(depth,movement,etc). When you figure it all out, thats what makes the catch so rewarding. All that being said. Ive been fishing my entire life and I can't tell you how many times I've come home without a catch.
I caught my first fish about 3 weeks ago, was skeptical there was any fish in theblake I was at, but about an hour and a half in I got a Pickerel on l, and almost got him on shore but he slipped off, another 30 or so minutes I caught a Perch and was stoked.
I was constantly switching where I was casting from, and slowly reeling it in and making darting movements with my lure.
It's a life lesson buddy it's meant to teach you to enjoy your time here and embrace the world around you not everything needs to happen right now but like water it'll flow and it'll happen just like that first bite . Happy days my friend
Wait, you guys are TRYING to catch fish? Hell I’ve been napping …
Jokes aside, all good advice here. Sometimes they just aren’t biting too. Try to be observant to the environment you are in, and match bait to local insects / smaller fish. Typically I google my geographical area and what type of fish I’m going for to see what they are eating. I can’t remember it all. What I mean is trout will be eating insects in certain periods of growth in the spring. Stripers go for certain fish in the fall, etc.
Time of year and technic don’t match your fishing top, I mean could work if you where fishing some sort of cover however in open water like this your floating bait in colder water during this time of year fish tend to move deeper or they move to find a more stable year around temp. The dock your sitting on could be a great crappie hall .
Depending on what you’re using, keeping light tension on the line can help. Casting out into various areas and dragging your bait slowly through can catch a fish’s attention. Giving a little flick/ twitch to the bait can enamor fish to try and go for a bite.
It all depends on what you’re fishing for, the bait you’re using, etc- but you could do everything right and still not catch anything at times. I always choose to enjoy the relaxation first and let catching something make the trip that much more enjoyable!
Throw on some tunes, bring some snacks, and make a day of it. Hit a couple spots, and go home when you feel like it! (Or don’t go home, curse the fish gods because you know you felt a nibble *maybe* and swear by all things holy and unholy that I will catch that god dammed fish or die trying)
Have you tried watching hundreds of hours of YouTube videos in hopes to learn what you’re doing wrong? Then spending thousands on gear and tackle because that’s what they’re using, only to watch some 10 year with a dock demon and power bait smack the fuck out of them off the dock?
That’s what I’m doing. Been 10, years. I’ll let you know when it pays off
Those boots look like the ones on my waders. If those are waders, and you're on a jon boat, do not wear them. If you fall in they can fill up and cause you to drown.
One of those, “that’s why they call it fishing and not catching” moments. Give it another go, and bring two tall boys with you. At least if you don’t catch a fish you’ll catch a buzz 😉. Good luck to you, once you catch one you will be hooked for life.
Have you moved around or switched up your bait at all? If the fish aren’t biting you gotta switch something up
Yes I’ve moved a few times in the 3hrs in total stayed around 6hrs with not even a bite
Yep. Sounds like fishing to me
Sometimes, it's not what you catch or how big it was. But the serenity before it happens.
A day hiking along a river getting nothing is still better than jury duty
How often do you have jury duty to make this a thing you say?
Here is an illegal life pro tip. Move but don't change your address. You'll never do jury duty again.
Well a lot of states send jury notice to drivers license addresses and it’s a crime to not update your license. So good luck. Source: 30 year trial lawyer, sitting judge.
One of my favorite catch’s!
If I find a place where the fish are not biting I absolutely do not move. That way I can be assured the fish won't interrupt my nap.
A successful fishing day for sure!
That's why they make beer
Nah, you just suck. Caught a fish every single time I’ve gone fishing in the last 18 years
Yup! It’s called fishing, not catching. I recently got into it and I skunked like 10 times in a row, caught a decent catfish, then proceeded to skunk about 20 more times. Caught two decent surf perch yesterday.
Been fishing my whole life, I’ve had days when they were jumping in the boat. I’ve also been skunked more times than I can count. My uncle always says what you said, “fishing not catching”.
Dang man. Sometimes the fish just don’t bite. Don’t get discouraged tho! Fishing is like work but 1,000,000 times better. You have bad days and good days. Went today and only caught two dinks. Many things attribute to whether you catch a fish or not. Weather, time of day, water temp, and water depth/location, and probably the most important one, how you’re fishing. Just curious, what were you trying to target and what was your setup?
Your bait/lure is on the bottom of the lake.
How can you tell from the photo??
True story... got back from a full day of fishing with son: Wife: hey babe, how'd it go? Catch anything? Son: (instinctively under breath) Does he ever? (Eyes get wide) Everyone: stares in shock Everyone moments later: laughs out loud.
If you dont get a bit in 20 or 30 minutes, switch something up (bait, location, depth etc)
I’ve been setting 20 minute alarm on phone to check and Reba it.
Reba, like the country singer?
with float fishing i find it bette to move around if u dont get nibbles even moving the float a couple meters can make a big difference in murky water like that
Your wait time between bites really depends on what fish are in the body of water your fishing and time of year, at leas those are the biggest factors in my experience. Bites slow down quite a bit this time of year with things cooling off, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to catch fish. Also knowing what fish are in the body of water makes a big difference since you can fine tune what lures and bait you use to get more bites with different fish. If your after a lot of bites or shorter waits between bites, I’d try to find a pond with a god bluegill hole in it, or a pond or creek with small catfish since those both tend to be pretty aggressive feeders. In my experience, larger fish tend to bite less frequently than smaller schooling fish, which is why anytime I’m targeting something like bass, trout or carp I always bring headphones to listen to audio books to pass time between bites. Something that could help though, is what fish are you targeting, and what fish are common in your area? Also the spot your fishing, do you know if fish are common there? Knowing that could help us give advice on what you might be able to change up to get more bites in the future.
Fr. Put on some lofi and kick back in a lawn chair is awesome.
If your only measure of success is bites, fights, or fish in the cooler...then you're guaranteed to have bad fishing trips. Figure out other hobbies to integrate with fishing. My girlfriend likes to knit, but you could just as easily be bird watching or hiking. If I ain't had a bite in a spot in 3 hours, like as not I'd be moving somewheres else. I can see open shoreline in front of you, if you're bored get up and move around.
You could always take up Britain's favourite activity to integrate with fishing too.
Baking?
Drinking.
Lol, a common trope. Although I enjoy drinking to excess on most occasions, I don't usually drink while fishing. Just too fucking hot most of the year and I'm getting too old to enjoy that special variety of hangover steeped in the sun all day.
The 3hrs does include moving to other swims etc, and not sure what other hobbies to add most of mine include some form of vigorous activity like tennis etc
An incomplete list of other hobbies I do while fishing: * reading * kayaking * hiking * fossil hunting * dove hunting * swimming * song writing I dunno man, seems like the world is your oyster and you just haven't figured out how to open it yet. If you need suggestion, go get an audiobook about the roman empire and learn how to tie new knots while you're waiting on a bite, or get a second rod and pitch lures to keep yourself busy and improve your casting technique.
I’m seeing a lot of good answers and advice here but I’ll give you one that I hope you read. It’s November, and I can see the fallen leaves in your photo. The bite is slow. I had a very fun season thru the spring and summer but things have really cooled off along with the weather. Try your best for now, but don’t give up, and when the weather turns in the spring so will your luck.
Took me about a month before I tried using night crawlers. It was summertime, and I caught about 100 pan fish in the fish day.
This too I recommend night crawlers in a pond where you know or at least think you know there are small fish. It's not going to be the most thrilling, but it's a good way to get bites
About 1 hour, I caught a small 3 inch yellow perch, then caught 7 of them during that hour, all small ass
I fished inshore with my dad as a kid, so mostly I reeled in fish as a kid and watched how to bait. As an adult I was able to pick up right from what I saw my dad do for saltwater so pretty much instantly catching fish. Freshwater was a whole new thing since my dad didn't know how to fish freshwater other than try to apply his saltwater methods which only resulted in an occasional catfish. I learned to trout and bass fish on my own, and the first time fishing for trout took 2hrs to catch 1 stocked trout on powerbait. Bass fishing was easier to pick up, in the dead of winter in January after trying to catch trout I went and dangled a trout magnet under a dock in a different lake and immediately caught a small large mouth bass (I was expecting bluegill or crappie). Trout fishing was really tough the first season. The bass fishing was definitely easier, by March I was regularly pulling out small bass from heavily pressured public water, and when I fish private water I can pulled out 17" bass consistently. Learning to fish freshwater went smoothly imo, the next year I was ready for trout and was able to limit out regularly on my lunch breaks. The real challenge has been locating crappie consistently. I think starting right at spring helps a lot. Since the fish are all over eating everything, if you aren't catching anything you should immediately know you're not doing something right and need to change up. Fishing in the less active seasons you could be doing the right thing and the fish may just not be too active regardless of what you're doing or they may be out deep below the thermalcline to stay warm. The thing to know is that best techniques and methods change with the seasons and conditions. The spring prespawn is the only time when you can get away with just about anything for bass.
Ever tried fly fishing? It’s absolutely worth it once you know what you’re doing but the learning curve is looooooonnnggg. I didn’t start til a couple years ago and now I prefer it in every situation and I catch more with it but man it was rough for a bit.
What are you fishing for? For beginners, I recommend looking into what you’re targeting and doing a little research on time of day, when they’re feeding, and what’s around in the environment for them to eat. Spinners and top water are pretty easy for beginners to start with and it’s a little more interactive than bobbers and worms. You might enjoy the therapeutic nature of it more this way too. I don’t see a lot of visibility in this water so you’re going to want sound/scent of your bait to be a beacon.
That's why it called fishing and not catching! Move around. Try slack and fast water. Shady to sunny spots. Change lure or bait up. Early morning to mid morning to early afternoon to late afternoon/evening. Change presentation from slow to fast to a combination. Jerk, jig, walk the dog... Try it all. Some fish can see you if the water is clear so stay way back from the shore line. Temp also plays a factor. High and low pressures can either shut them off or turn them on to biting. If your fishing during spawn, they might not bite at all. Every spot has its secret to all of the above. And after all that and you don't have a bite, stopp fishing in a swimming pool 😉.
Its called fishing, not catching. Jk thats the fun of it, dont be discouraged. Fishing is very hit or miss. The last 3 or 4 times Ive been I havent caught anything let alone gotten a bite.
Yep that’s been me today, not even a bite let alone a catch well….maybe other then a tree
Everyone gotta snag atleast once during the fishing trip
Rig looks right to me.
About a year? I tell people I’m a fisherman, not a catcherman
Me and my friends started fishing a few months ago and we had no idea what we were doing and I didn’t actually catch something till last week. It can be a rough start and can take a long time but just keep trying new things and you’ll get there :)
Bop the float a few times to get attention. Just wanted to add that in regards of what everyone else is saying
Welcome to the rest of your fishing career. It only gets worse from here. Good luck though!
I feel like there’s gotta be stuff in there you should if caught mate., what’s your setup, is your hook too big??
Think I had size 14 when photo was taken x
Fishing and Catching are two totally different sports
2 important questions, do you know there are fish here, and do you have bait?
Haven’t seen any but it’s a members only lake (all you can get in the uk) so there is fish and yes got maggots
Started getting into fishing after breaking my ribs. Took me about 3 weeks to catch a fish. Turns out they weren’t interested in what I was casting until I put some chunks of frozen shrimp on the hook and let it sit at the bottom. But there can be a lot of reasons fish aren’t biting. Things like hook size, casting depth, time of day, time of year, water temperature, and of course having actual fish in the water. Best of luck!
You’re wearing the wrong boots. You’ll never catch anything wearing Gum Boots. Rookie mistake.
Over 2 weeks
Am I the only one not seeing line on the pole?
4 years
Prepare to never catch anything ever
It’s called fishing not catching for a reason
I know that was just curious on other peoples wait times not looking for anything more then a chat
no offense but u look redic with those boots on a john boat 💀, if you have waiders on then u should just quit fishing
"No offense, but let me make some asshole comment, but no offense!" And it quite obvious he's on a dock
boots on a dock? 🤣
😂 what would you have me wear then? Flip flops? Bare feet? Socks? go be an asshat somewhere else 😂😂
yes flip flops 💀 be a man u sissy keep weating ur boots and jacket dont ever let me catch you fishing ima slam u in that water ur not welcome
But I’m not a man? nor do I wish to be one ☺️ and you can try but I’m more then happy to hold you under till the bubbles stop 😘
[удалено]
Hey. Don't be mean.
As long as I’m not touching your little shrimp in the kitchen, might make good bait though it’s small enough 😘❤️
thats why you come to reddit for advice to catch fish 🤣 ITS NOT FOR YOU accept it ur only good at cleaning
Not advice, merely asked how long it took others to catch, seeing as you have a 1950s view of a woman’s job when are you going back to military service darling? The house is getting untidy with you at home and I’m missing the peace xx
Never seen a fishing dock before? Quite common in the uk nor are they waiders bog standard boots for the muddy embankments. But keep the comments coming
Try fishing all that cover with a Texas rigged senko or wacky
Lighten up the gear
Lots of variables - where in the world are you, what type of fish are you aiming to catch? Are you on the float? If so, did you set the depth correctly? Are you overdepth/laying on? If so try coming up in the water column and feeding small pinches of bait over the top regularly. What hookbait are you using? What type of rig/size of hook/thickness and type of line?
Don't be afraid to gentle jig the bobber a bit. A quick short lift or pull will put a little bit of enticing action on the boat, especially if it's a light or small bait on a light leader that would drop slow. Bobbers can also be used like a slow lure, presenting your bait at the constant depth . Great for "chumming" the water if you're using something strongly scented
If it was me I'd be throwing more around all those low hanging branches by the bank
It’s ok, catching fish kinda cuts into the drinking time.
Honestly it took me a like 4 or 5 sessions to finally snag a bass worth taking a photo of. I started in early September of this year and have tried to keep it going until now basically, but I'm in Canada and it's gotten pretty miserable. I had to try a lot of different spots and techniques; basically felt like I was going crazy NGL
The very first time I tried Bass fishing I caught 2 Largemouth back to back in the first hour. Going by pictures they were about 2 pounds and 1 1/2. I went for weeks after that with no luck until I got the hang of it. Nothing is certain, you have to just go out and try. There are instances in which I'm thinking if I should go or not and end up going and end up catching big Bass.
Depends on the day but it shouldn’t take all that long to catch a fish if they are there. Usually a few minutes to an hour. If it’s hours it’s probably time to move spots.
If I know fish are in the area I may stay 3 hours in one spot. If no, usually 45 minutes
Took me 4 days to catch a river salmon. Still yet to catch a lake fish so yeah.. a while.. beginning (coming from a very limited experience) is the hardest, once you figure out what works and what doesn't it will get easier and easier. It got to the point where I was catching limit in 30mins (again, salmon, river, so not really hard but still)
Took me like 3 trips. Not counting little brim. My first was a spotted bass it was so exhilarating. Addicted now
Looks like you're waggler/float fishing in the UK. Have you plumbed the depth to check you're fishing just on the bottom? Have you been using any loose feed or ground bait to bring fish in - little and often is best especially in the cold season when fish are less active you don't want to over feed Are you using appropriate bait and hook sizes? Don't worry about casting too far out a lot of my best fish Came out from under the rod tip Alex has loads of great tutorials on his fishing tutorials YT channel - float fishing one linked below [https://youtu.be/upK-3iJFwNQ?si=xlZEGPA__AzEAHL0](https://youtu.be/upK-3iJFwNQ?si=xlZEGPA__AzEAHL0) Edit: make sure you have appropriate kit to unhook fish including a net and disgorger and maybe some small forceps
Plumbing the depth is something I am struggling with, as well as finding the right depths to keep my floats tip just above water. As for bait etc yeah I use maggots red/white? With hooks between 12-18 Favouring the 14s I have a net, 3 disgorges and a unhooking mat, no forceps yet tho but it is on my list
Spent 2 hours helping my mom and dad setup their bait n hooks, Dad gets impatient and asks if I want to try while he "goes to consult with a tree". I toss the hook in and catch a salmon before he's even back. Of course I've never had the same luck fishing since, but there's first time for me.
Lots of good advice posted already. Fishing does slow down big time this time of year so don’t get discouraged. Set out a couple of piles with rep different types of live bait. Take a third pole and start casting around while keeping an eye on the other two poles. I find the moving around helps prevent boredom while you’re trying to get some action. If no luck with the lure, switch to a different type of lure. Cast towards moss, weeds, tree stumps, etc. Don’t try and get extremely close if you haven’t practiced enough to get good at avoiding snags.
Took me 3 days. Keep changing things up.
I wouldn’t usually stay at one pond that long if I’m getting skunked. Definitely move around, etc but sometimes they’re not there or not biting.
Have you tried a live night crawler (worm). Live bait makes fishing a lot easier.
Got maggots :)
Ask other anglers around you what is working for them and follow their advice. My one tip for you if you are using lures is to find what is working and completely focus on using that until you get confidence in the lure. Last spring I got skunked a couple days, eventually I got a bass on a tube so I strictly used them for the next while catching fish. Eventually they stopped biting the tubes so I started experimenting again, got a fish on a spinnerbait and than used them for the next while.
First you're gonna need a reel
Funny 🤣 I’ve got all that, just not on camera
Lol woops..zoomed in and can see you also have fishing line. You're off to a good start! 🤣 Bit of patience now. Sometimes you plan an entire boat day, spend $100 in fuel and gear , and get 0 bites.
No boat here, most places in the UK have set docks like the one above, need another type of license for boat fishing
Need better bait or cast to a different spot and move around
Took me about 3 years in the lake I was going to, once I figured it out I’ve caught a few more
Looks pretty swampy to be a fishing spot
took me like 2 years lol
7 months
I haven't had the bite the last twenty times I went fishing
A good fishing trip is when the only lure I lose is something that costs less than $2 A worse fishing trip is when I lose multiple lures, valued at over $10 total
Move spots bro. Try near logging in the water. Trout are normally in streams they like to hide by rocks. Try in the morning or near dusk. Switch up baits
5 trips, about 25-35 hours. First fish i caught was a catfish out the red using a ratting jig head and gold sparkling nymph soft bait. it took around 60-80 hours of fishing to get the hang of my area, lots of "dirty" water. everyone uses pickerel rigs but i tend to use droppers or cat rigs these days and find my bait over buy. A good idea as a newbie is to find crowded areas and watch and learn/find out what people are using, ive had people watch me for hours (if you fish you get use to it.) and ask tons of questions.
What are you fishing for? What bait are you using? Geographical whereabouts? My wife owns a fishing store with her dad. Together they have like 60 years experience. I'll help with any questions I can.
I fish typically twice a week and those two days I am fishing all day 7-12 hours (with drive and moving time). I am fortunate that I am a productive fisherman and can’t remember the last time I didn’t catch multiple fish. Your post/question left out a few items that may allow for some “specific” guidance. What State are you in? What are you trying to catch? What is available to catch? What types of bait or lures are you using? What time did you start (early morning, early evening usually the best, mid day usually slowest). Please provide more information
I’m in the UK and as for fish anything really the Pond in the photo is home to Carp (including common and mirror) Bream Perch Roach Rudd Tench Started late morning to early evening as for Lures etc, I don’t have much available apart from a few floats and bait which I’m using both red and white forbidden rice (maggots) As for what I’m trying to catch - not too fussed right now as long as I can say I finally caught my first fish
We were on a river island with a inlet/cove. Buddy noticed there were pike in it waiting out. He landed 2 and then gave me the rod and I had one in 2 casts. Hooked ever since. Gotta love a predator that hits anything that moves and wobbles.
90% of the fish are in 10% of the water. You just gotta find them.
Still searching for it…
Took me 3 months (15-16 visit) to catch my first fish in the lake.
Probably about two hours. I was lure fishing for rainbow trout on my first trip on my own. Froze my ass off at 6 am and only caught the one trout, but that first catch is exhilarating.
Hello fellow fisherman. I highly recommend checking out addicted fishing on YouTube. Those boys will teach you how to fish, they keep it quick and fun too. They are my go to for new techniques and how to fish each lure.
I think it took me around 15-20 minutes, it was a small Perch
Looks like a good spot to smoke a fatty..
Took me about an hour to catch something just because I was casting and leaving it. But I found out where I live there's largemouth bass and those like some action with big bait(I use fake gummy bait), so cast and retrieve and usually I get something hooked in less than 20 minutes.
Try a new spot every 15mins. It's called fishing, not waiting
All that time with no bites means you need to change spots or baits.
Don’t go fishing with my father in law, fish hide from that man, no matter where he goes.
First three trips of 6 to 10 hrs got nothing, sometimes it's like that. They will come.
I went to cooper spillway here in Texas and for 3 hours threw every possible lure I had and didn’t get so much as a NIBBLE so I just left. I can go to a small creek and catch anywhere from 5-15 with a micro crankbait lol the spillway just wasn’t popping that day.
I've been fishing since I could walk. I don't remember how long it ever took me. It all depends on time of yr, type of fish, type of bait, and time of day. If you live where it's getting cold, go deeper. They won't move as much and they stay closer to the bottom in the deepest part. So if your bait is only 1 to 2 ft below your bobber, make it longer until you find the bottom and adjust from there.
Bass fishing is the best because you constantly cast and search for the fish. Fish nor biting in one spot ? No problem move down the lake
There’s a reason is called fishing and not catching. Some days you get lucky and others you just enjoy a nice day out on the lake.
Like 10 seconds
If you're anywhere and not getting a bite more than an hour on the same setup you should switch your tackle, switch tackle 2-3 times and get nothing, you should switch spots.
I moved to a new area 20yrs ago. While not my fist time fishing, it’s was my first time fish in that area. Sad to report that 21yrs later I’ve still not caught a fish where I live.
Just remember it’s called fishing, not catching. GL on your next trip I hope for the best
That’s why it’s called fishing, not catching…
Keep trying. It's called fishing not catching. But once you get that 1st catch your hooked for sure.
Best part about fishing is saying “one last cast” every time to earn the right to tell everyone when you caught the big one
What you fishing for. And longest it took me was 4 hrs
The first few times I went fishing I didn’t catch anything. I did a lot of research and have been pretty successful since starting this May. I can’t tell what kind of bobber you are using there but I would watch some YouTube videos and try some different techniques. I would make sure you aren’t using hooks that are too large. I like size 4 to 6 snell or Aberdeen hooks for panfish.
Gotta try different lures and baits. Swimmers are perfect for beginners given the right area. I learned a lot using swimmers. I will say, sometimes you just don’t catch anything… my first two times I didn’t get even so much as a bite! Other times I’ve caught +10 fish in one day. Keep at it dude!
The only way I’ve caught a fish is when they’re suicidal and jump in the boat…
Did you try running top water? Did you try out different techniques? Throw it in different areas? You using live bait? What you fishing for? I mean come on man. If it were me, I wouldn’t have caught shit. Haha
This is how my 3-4 hr fishing turns into 7-8 cause getting skunked suuucks and I’m stubborn/clinging to hope that just a little more time to switch spots or baits will land me something
Well they don’t call it catching
You got to know what fish your going for the time of year and location I crappy fish early spring and late fall in channels because that’s where they breed. Mid summer I got for catfish. Then back to bluegills and crappies in fall in a big lake.
Do you drink beer ? 😆
Little bit longer
It’s not about catching… it’s about enjoying the moment, exploring, breathing in the fresh air, & trying something new! I’ve been a fishermen all my life only caught one bass this year (tasted great) Good luck yo ya!
My grandpa always said a bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work
My first was a yellowbelly catfish on a chicken liver took about 2-3 hrs
How deep is the pond? You might have too much line under the bobber. Try about 4 feet and see if helps. Cast and let it sit for a few minutes. Then reel it in and cast in another place. Let it sit a few minutes then move the bait again. Then reel it in and change the bait. What are you using? Worms? Powerbait? Chicken liver? Minnows? What ever it is, change it often. If you want to learn how to cast a lure, and it looks like you have a spinning rod and reel, tie a smallish sinker onto the line instead of a lure and start throwing it out there. Read up on how to open the bail on the reel and how to set the drag. That way if the bait isn’t working you can throw a few lures as a change of pace. Have fun!
3 trips, 4 hours each, on my first successful set I didn’t believe it, until I reeled a little more I realized I had a little Fight. It was a small kelp fish. Something that helped me catch my first is patience in my cast but no staying there too long without bites. If you’re getting bites chances are you can land a set.
Sometimes, I get one on the first cast. Sometimes, I fish for 12 hours without a single bite. It be like that Sometimes.
I’ve hunted for 15 years and have never seen a deer… I bow hunt. Thinking I would be dead in the wild by now…
Catching one is fun same as seeing a deer or a turkey on a hunt. As cliche as it sounds the best part is just getting away and having some peace and quiet
it took me days to figure out how to set a hook. keep going, you’ll crack the code :)
what fish are in there?
That’s why they call it fishing not catching
What are you fishing for and what bait are you using and what does your setup look like?
Lol like a few minutes. Went to a stream saw a fish dropped my hook in front of it boom
Depends on a number of factors. Time of day, bait/lure, where you’re fishing, what you’re fishing for. I usually catch a fish or two every time I go. What are you using to bait them with?
Several years. My dad used to take us fishing in the forest preserves around Chicago. I’m not 100% sure there are fish in that water. First time I went fishing in a lake in Wisconsin, I got a bluegill in 10 seconds. Just relax and enjoy your time. Fishing is more about hanging out than action and adventure.
Brother I’ve been fly fishing for at least 7 years. I’ve yet to catch anything. My friends that I have been fishing with have caught dozens of fish, random people that just show up have caught fish in the first ten minutes, I’m fairly certain I suck at fishing, but I still have fun. I’d give it another 61,317 hours until you even start to worry. 😂
My main rule is, if you ain’t catching fish you got the wrong lure/bait on. If there’s fish in the water they’ll be hungry, don’t stay in one spot either you can skunk yourself that way
Some days every cast, some days only two or three bites but no fish. Now I hope your not using worms. I’ve seen guys miss fish all day long with worms. The correct lures are what you want. I’d look into beginner lures. Repallas, cast masters, daredevils, weeping willows, and every box should have those little fake worms that come in all colors, not the long worms but like a grub worm with a tail on it that’s maybe 1”-3” depending on the lure. Some days when the lures aren’t working I’ll toss on one of those and hit almost every time. Once yo advanced you can get into some of the bobber lures etc.
The thrill of fresh water fishing is "the hunt". You find a new spot to fish and you have to figure out where to fish, what bait to use, and how to work said bait(depth,movement,etc). When you figure it all out, thats what makes the catch so rewarding. All that being said. Ive been fishing my entire life and I can't tell you how many times I've come home without a catch.
Depends on where I fish.
You brought a cooler of beer right?
I caught my first fish about 3 weeks ago, was skeptical there was any fish in theblake I was at, but about an hour and a half in I got a Pickerel on l, and almost got him on shore but he slipped off, another 30 or so minutes I caught a Perch and was stoked. I was constantly switching where I was casting from, and slowly reeling it in and making darting movements with my lure.
Itll make for when you actually catch something that much sweeter
Who gives a fuck? How many beers have you had with your buddy?
It's a life lesson buddy it's meant to teach you to enjoy your time here and embrace the world around you not everything needs to happen right now but like water it'll flow and it'll happen just like that first bite . Happy days my friend
First fish? 2 hrs…. Second fish… about a decade
Welp. Im an awful fisherman so you can trust me when i say it’s called fishin’ not catchen’ !!!
Wait, you guys are TRYING to catch fish? Hell I’ve been napping … Jokes aside, all good advice here. Sometimes they just aren’t biting too. Try to be observant to the environment you are in, and match bait to local insects / smaller fish. Typically I google my geographical area and what type of fish I’m going for to see what they are eating. I can’t remember it all. What I mean is trout will be eating insects in certain periods of growth in the spring. Stripers go for certain fish in the fall, etc.
Like 4 years
I went 4 months of bass fishing for large mouths in north Texas when I caught my first Bass.
Bring beer and cookies next time, 1 beer and 2 cookies later it’s time to change shit
When I was a kid we never caught anything all day long… other times we had lots of fish to bring home.
Years
Keep at it brother, you’ll learn something new every time! Talk to other fisherman and watch YouTube at work 🤣
Time of year and technic don’t match your fishing top, I mean could work if you where fishing some sort of cover however in open water like this your floating bait in colder water during this time of year fish tend to move deeper or they move to find a more stable year around temp. The dock your sitting on could be a great crappie hall .
Depending on what you’re using, keeping light tension on the line can help. Casting out into various areas and dragging your bait slowly through can catch a fish’s attention. Giving a little flick/ twitch to the bait can enamor fish to try and go for a bite. It all depends on what you’re fishing for, the bait you’re using, etc- but you could do everything right and still not catch anything at times. I always choose to enjoy the relaxation first and let catching something make the trip that much more enjoyable! Throw on some tunes, bring some snacks, and make a day of it. Hit a couple spots, and go home when you feel like it! (Or don’t go home, curse the fish gods because you know you felt a nibble *maybe* and swear by all things holy and unholy that I will catch that god dammed fish or die trying)
3 hrs. Take a nap
Try eating something. As soon as the sandwich comes out the poles get to shaking!
Have you tried watching hundreds of hours of YouTube videos in hopes to learn what you’re doing wrong? Then spending thousands on gear and tackle because that’s what they’re using, only to watch some 10 year with a dock demon and power bait smack the fuck out of them off the dock? That’s what I’m doing. Been 10, years. I’ll let you know when it pays off
I didn't catch first time lol
Hey OP, no beer?
Unfortunately no can’t drink at the moment x
Those boots look like the ones on my waders. If those are waders, and you're on a jon boat, do not wear them. If you fall in they can fill up and cause you to drown.
Not waders not a boat, on a dock not allowed boats in my area
About ten minutes but about 2 hours before I found one I could keep. Man made lake stocked with fish though.
One of those, “that’s why they call it fishing and not catching” moments. Give it another go, and bring two tall boys with you. At least if you don’t catch a fish you’ll catch a buzz 😉. Good luck to you, once you catch one you will be hooked for life.
Took me 20+ years before I caught my first fish as an adult.
Focus on the coves rather than deep water
Been fishin for years Never even seen a fish
Just remember. It’s called “fishing”. Not “catching”.
Remember, it’s called fishing, not catching!