angling

Angling is the practice of catching fish using a rod, line, and hook, often with the aid of reels, baits, and artificial lures. The term distinguishes this method from other forms of fishing such as nets or traps. Angling equipment ranges from simple rod-and-line setups to specialized gear for various techniques, water bodies, and target species.

The word angling comes from the verb angle, referring to the hook and line as a tool for catching fish. Historical use is documented in many cultures; in Europe it evolved into a popular pastime by the late medieval period and became a formal sport in the 18th–19th centuries with books like The Compleat Angler by Izaak Walton influencing English-speaking anglers.

Major angling methods include fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait or lure fishing. Fly fishing uses a lightweight line and artificial flies; spin fishing employs a fixed or spinning reel with soft or hard lures; bait fishing uses natural bait on a hook, often with a float or weight. Tackle choices include rods, lines (monofilament, fluorocarbon, braided), reels, and hooks in various sizes.

Ethical considerations include catch-and-release practices, respecting seasons and size limits, and avoiding protected species. Many jurisdictions require licenses and impose local regulations. Conservation-minded anglers emphasize habitat protection, invasive species management, and the sustainable harvest of fisheries.

Angling is a widespread recreational activity with cultural and economic importance in many regions. It supports tourism, sport clubs, and craft industries around equipment and accessories. While primarily a leisure pursuit, it also plays a role in subsistence fishing in some communities.