Fishing can be a challenging and exciting hobby, or a very relaxing way to spend your time. Fishing can be done in freshwater or saltwater and likewise is as enjoyable for a single afternoon as it is for a whole week. The following article offers great tips, and it doesn’t matter your level of expertise.

Always use sharp hooks to make sure you catch plenty of fish. If they are dull, they won’t set in the fish and you may go home empty-handed! Make sure your hooks are sharp before you embark on your fishing trip in order to maximize your time.

Before fishing, know the maximum amount of weight your boat can carry. A fun fishing trip can go awry quick if your boat sinks. Stay well below the weight capacity to maintain the highest level of safety possible.

Live bait will usually give you the best chances of catching the most fish. Local insects are the natural diet of fish. If it is a bait that typically lives near the waters edge, the fish are more likely to bite it. Expensive artificial lures may look nice, but they do little to attract fish.

Make sure your hands are very wet before you make a final attempt to reel in a fish. This helps prevent the fish scales from drying out. Especially in situations where you have to release the fish back in the water.

A lot of bass fishermen like to fish using grubs that are light in color. Gray, chartreuse, white or yellow grubs are especially effective. Translucent grubs often include reflective flecks which can attract more fish. Try using a grub that is the color of the water to increase your odds of success.

Always remember to wet your line prior to tying on a knot. This fortifies the knot and cuts down on friction caused by the process of tying the knot. When picking a knot, you might want to tie it using clinch knots or even using double fisherman knots.

If you are a budding fisherman, you will soon learn to appreciate cloudy days. When there is an overcast sky, there is dark water, which causes the fish to look for food they can’t see. This translates to a greater likelihood that a fish will bite if it sees your bait. Remember, however, fish become lethargic and not as ready to eat if the water is too cool.

The information contained in this article should help you to become a better fisherman. Whether you are fishing off the dock on a sunny day or are on a weekend saltwater expedition with friends, fishing is a wonderful, relaxing, and enjoyable way to experience the outdoors. Remember these tips for your next fishing trip, and have a great time!