Below are 7 secrets to help all fishermen.
Some of these points are a little abstract that you may not know so have a read and add some more points if you have some.
1) Clean your hands before you start fishing. Don't clean with regular soap but try to go for something more natural that won't scare fish off. The chemicals from perfumed lotions and soaps which we all use will be transferred to the bait when you touch it. Fish don't like this taste so get your hands clean. If you cant wash with natural soap, try washing in the water you are intending on fishing in or rubbing some fish oil into your hands. Stinky fishy hands are everything that a fish would want!
2) If fishing from a boat arrive slowly at your fishing destination. If you arrive in a blaze of glory you are sure to send the fish swimming away.
3) Keep your hooks sharp or if you can't be bothered, buy new hooks often. Blunt hooks are next to useless. If the hook doesn't accidentally catch the tips of your fingers then it is too blunt.
4) Keep your gear in good condition. Most amateur fisherman use there gear and leave them in a storeroom for the next 6 months to rot away. Make sure to clean your gear with fresh water after every use. You should also do a proper clean of your reels at least once a year. This clean should be thorough to ensure the longevity of your equipment. You should pull apart the reel to clean it and to oil the inside mechanics. Don't overdue the oil otherwise you may damage the fishing line. Use a few drops of oil sparingly.
5) Use a net to bring your fish onboard. The greatest opportunity for a fish to escape is the point directly after you pull it from the water. Use a net to ensure your prize catch doesn't swim off in a hurry.
6) Keep all algae and weed chunks off your bait, line and rigs. Algae and weed will scare off the fish so make sure your line is clean.
7) Look for darker water. If you can see clearly through the water then the fish can see clearly back at you. Rough water, dark water and deep water are all good places for fish to hang out.
James Fletcher is a boating and fishing enthusiast. His website is a great source of boating and fishing knowledge. Find more useful boating and fishing tips at:
http://www.freeboatingtips.com 
