Fishing can be an invaluable skill and resource in various survival situations, providing a sustainable source of food whether you’re near a coast, river, or lake. The gear and techniques can vary significantly depending on the environment, so it’s important to tailor your fishing kit and knowledge to the specific type of water body you might be near. Here’s a breakdown for each scenario:
Coastal Fishing
- Saltwater Tackle: Saltwater fishing requires corrosion-resistant gear, as the salt can damage standard equipment. Include stainless steel hooks, leaders, and swivels in your kit.
- Rod and Reel: A medium to heavy rod is preferable for coastal fishing, paired with a reel that can handle saltwater conditions. Spinning reels are generally easier for beginners to use.
- Bait and Lures: Live bait such as worms, shrimp, or small fish is effective for many coastal species. For lures, consider a variety that can attract a wide range of fish, including spoons, plugs, and soft plastics designed for saltwater use.
- Line and Sinkers: Heavier lines (20-30 lb test for general use) are needed for larger saltwater fish. Weighted sinkers help cast your line further and keep bait below the surface in waves.
River Fishing
- Lighter Tackle: River fish typically aren’t as large as those in the ocean, so lighter tackle can be used. A selection of hooks, sinkers, and bobbers is essential.
- Rod and Reel: A lighter, more flexible rod is suitable for river fishing, with a spinning or baitcasting reel depending on your preference and experience.
- Bait and Lures: Insects, worms, and small fish are effective natural baits in rivers. Artificial lures such as spinners, spoons, and flies mimic the small insects and fish river species feed on.
- Waders: If you plan on wading into the river, a good pair of waterproof waders can keep you dry and comfortable.
Lake Fishing
- Versatile Tackle: Lake fishing can vary greatly, so a versatile tackle box with various hook sizes, sinkers, and floats/bobbers is recommended.
- Rod and Reel: A medium-action rod is versatile enough for most lake fishing situations, whether you’re targeting panfish or larger bass.
- Bait and Lures: Live bait like worms and minnows works well in lakes. For lures, consider a mix of surface lures, jigs, and crankbaits to cover different depths and conditions.
- Fishing Floats: Bobbers or floats can be very useful in lakes to keep your bait at a specific depth and indicate when fish are biting.
General Tips for All Environments
- Research Local Species: Understanding what fish are in your area and their habits can greatly increase your success. Tailor your bait and technique accordingly.
- Preservation: Have a plan for preserving your catch, whether through smoking, salting, or drying, especially if refrigeration isn’t an option.
- Practice Catch and Release: When practicing, catch and release to maintain the fish population and ecosystem health, using barbless hooks or carefully removing the hook to minimize harm.
Including basic fishing gear in your preparedness kit and learning the skills to use them effectively can enhance your self-sufficiency in various survival scenarios. Tailoring your approach to the specific water body and conditions you anticipate will maximize your chances of success.