A How-To Guide in Women's Fishing

Our guest blog was written by Ashley Meadows, better known by the Texas Fishing Forum fishers as Aquatic Ash. Ashley grew up in the Texas hill country. She has fished and hunted all her life at her father's game ranch as well as other various places all over Texas. Ash enjoys fishing, both in saltwater in Rockport/Port A and freshwater in local areas in the hill country but her favorite place to fish is Lady Bird Lake out of her kayak.
She currently lives in Austin with her husband and loves being outdoors and enjoys a variety of sports.

Ash has a degree in Radiology. She is sometimes called upon to work long hours but manages to work in fishing and posting on TFF in the Bluegill/Sunfish section.

This remarkable  lady writes to give us fishing from a woman's perspective.

A How-To Guide in Women's Fishing

In modern times, it isn't rare to see a female out fishing with a spouse, friend or even solo. But for some, the sport/hobby is considered a man's outing. It can be intimidating for first timers that have zero experience in fishing and want nothing to do with touching a fish or bait.

There are a few key things that can be utilized to make a fishing experience more enjoyable for a woman. Also, if you are looking to get your female companion interested in fishing, you are in the right spot.

                                    Things To Bring On The Trip

You will first and foremost need to purchase a fishing license. This can easily be done online through Texas Parks & Wildlife. Temporary fishing licenses are available and cheaper.

A main concern most women have is dealing with the nasty baits. If you do not like to get your hands dirty, I recommend bringing along a towel to wipe your hands on, a small bottle of hand sanitizer, nail clippers with the nail cleaning attachment to get any dirt or grime from under your nails, and a bottle of water to wash your hands with. Nail clippers can also be used to cut your fishing line after tying a hook or if you get hung up on a tree etc.

If you have an issue with touching live bait, there is a simple solution - buy artificial baits, corn or bread. Live bait and artificial baits are both very effective in fishing. The other option, have someone bait your hook. Over time, you will learn what colors and types of baits work best for the fish you are catching and water clarity. Such as dirty or clear water. If you are unsure of what baits to buy, ask a salesman.

If you choose to use live bait, worms, meal worms, and crickets are some top choices.

You will also need to buy a rod & reel unless you are borrowing one. To start, I would purchase an ultra light rod & reel combo with 4lb test line. You can buy a reel that is already spooled with line or get the sporting goods store to do it for you. Also fellas, women like to be in control of situations, so it might be wise to take her to a sporting goods store and let her pick out her own gear with your assistance. It can also be rewarding for her to pick out her own baits to catch fish on. A tackle bag isn't necessary, but over time if you learn to enjoy and appreciate the sport, you will need to purchase one. Many anglers can contest to owning a plethora of baits, weights, hooks, floats, and other items we claim to need. There are numerous ideals in how to tie a line and hook with or without floats. I would suggest researching a 'drop shot technique.'

Weather permitting, do not forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or something to put your hair up with, such as hair ties and pins especially out on a boat. Wear clothing that you do not mind getting dirty or wet.

                                                Fishing

Most people lose interest in fishing if they are not catching fish. I would recommend that beginners  target sunfish/bluegills. These species are in abundance and tend to hang out in schools. They can be caught almost anywhere and live close to the banks. Another reason, they are not as slimy as catfish or hard to handle like bass for beginners.

You will need to be aware of poison ivy and snakes. Stay in a place that is safe.

Unhooking a fish, once understood, is a simple procedure. If you do not want to actually touch the fish, you can use a towel to hold them - this is for sunfish/bluegills. Using towels on certain species like bass takes the slimy protecting cover off the fish and can lead to an infection on the fish's surface. Hooks come out the same way they went in. You can take them out with your fingers, with a pair of pliers or a dehooking tool found at sporting good stores. If you are fishing with someone, I would recommend letting them teach you or watch a YouTube video. Hooking yourself can be painful and can require a visit to the doctor if deep enough.

Depending on the body of water, you may be able to take your catches home and reap the benefits of your work. Or release the fish to live again and to be caught again.

                                          The Next Step

Fishing is a great tool for couples who want to enjoy the outdoors together. Most men would love to see their other half take interest in something they enjoy. Even if you plan on fishing alone, this can be a great stress reliever and an excellent hobby.

This article can also be applied to getting children involved in fishing.

Just remember, patience is key with any hobby/sport. And be sure to bring a camera along to show off your catches!