lineFishing

Line fishing, sometimes written as lineFishing, is a fishing method that uses one or more fishing lines to catch fish, typically from shore, pier, or a boat. It encompasses a range of techniques such as float fishing, bottom fishing, drift fishing, and trolling, and is used in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

Equipment includes line (monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided); hooks and a sinker or weight; and a float or lure. Leaders and swivels reduce line twist and bite-off. Bait options range from natural baits (worms, minnows, cut bait) to artificial lures. Anglers may run more than one line, depending on local regulations and conditions.

Techniques: Float fishing uses a buoyant float to suspend bait at a chosen depth. Bottom fishing places weight on the line to keep the bait near the bottom. Drift fishing presents lines across a current or wind, while trolling involves dragging lines and lures behind a moving boat. Depth and distance are adjusted to target species.

Applications and species: Line fishing is practiced in many habitats, supporting a wide range of species from panfish and bass to walleye, pike, snapper, cod, and sea bass, depending on gear and location. It is used by recreational and commercial fishers in many regions.

Regulation and safety: Local laws govern licensing, seasons, and gear limits. Responsible line fishing emphasizes proper line disposal, avoiding entanglement, using appropriate hook sizes, and complying with size and bag limits to reduce bycatch and habitat impact.