Bank Fishing

While there are many styles of fishing that do not employ a rod at all, under the category of rod fishing there are still a myriad of methods to consider. 
 
At the beginning, a lot of information about fishing can seem overwhelming or nonessential. But knowing the difference between fly fishing and using natural lures, and why each is effective for certain types of fish, can really get a green hobbyist off to a fantastic start. So can understanding the scope of bank fishing: it's not just sitting on the shore bored!

Outdoor enthusiasts in San Angelo often enjoy the simple pleasures of bank fishing, which is exactly what it sounds like: fishing from the bank of a body of water. This is an excellent, easy way to ensure you can make time for fishing often, because it only requires living near water. No boats are needed, and all your equipment is in hand.
 
While fishers who use boats can access certain areas that might provide specific kinds of prey or a quicker catch, bank fishing provides a challenge with relaxation simultaneously. The fisherman must know the water: what types of fish are close to the bank? How deep is the water, and when are the fish most plentiful? What lures work best on this side or that of the lake? Strategy, along with trial and error, all come into play with bank fishing. But so does relaxing on the shore, beer and sandwich nearby: the epitome of a good weekend.
 
One less relaxing form of bank fishing, which can combine with other techniques, is rock fishing. While less popular in Texas, many anglers who subscribe to this practice use the rocky outcroppings along the lakeshore, gulf shore, or seashore to fish from. 
 
This method is considered quite dangerous, as the sea is nothing to trifle with, in its own right, and of course the rocky faces can be fatal if anglers don't exercise extreme caution. Despite this danger, and perhaps because of it, for some, rock fishing still proves to be a popular practice. But even those who wouldn't consider themselves daredevils may be tempted to try this method, because rock fishing may provide anglers with opportunities to catch otherwise elusive species.
 
Another technique that one might encounter when trying out bank fishing is fly fishing. This method can be done from the bank or by boat. It is simply the use of a fly rod, created just for this method, along with artificial flies for the lures. The line on fly rods are heavier, helping fishermen cast their lines further. 
 
Traditionally, the artificial flies are used to attract salmon or trout, but there are plenty of other freshwater fish who are likely to take an interest. In fact, many anglers enjoy attempting to catch as many different species through fly fishing as they can, making it a favorite for "collectors."
 
All in all, bank fishing will have as much adventure as an angler feels like putting into their fishing trip. From rocky shorelines on the coast, to lazy riverbanks down the road, bank fishing is a fun, relaxing hobby that anyone can get started doing with relative ease -- but it can take a lifetime to master.