Camp Fishing Quick Reference Card
One rig, one knot, one cast. This is the setup that gets a first-timer from a bare rod to a baited hook in the water, plus the knot you'll tie more than any other.
Rig & Cast
- Thread the linePull line off the spool and run it through every rod guide, bottom guides first.
- Tie on a swivelAttach a small swivel or clip with the improved clinch knot at right.
- Add weightPinch one split shot about 12 inches up the line from the swivel.
- Add a bobberClip a bobber on about 3 feet up the line from the split shot.
- Bait the hookClip on a hook sized for the target fish and thread on the bait.
- CastHold the rod at 10 o’clock, open the bail, sweep forward to 2 o’clock, and release the line off your finger.
Improved Clinch Knot
- ThreadPass 6 inches of line through the eye of the hook or swivel.
- WrapWrap the tag end around the main line 5 times (4 times on line over 20 lb test), wrapping away from the eye.
- First loopPass the tag end through the small loop that formed just above the eye.
- Improved loopPass the tag end through the larger loop you just made - the step that keeps this knot from slipping.
- Wet and cinchWet the knot, then pull both ends steadily until the wraps seat tight against the eye. Trim the tag to about ¼ inch.
Before every castLook behind and overhead for people, branches, and power lines. For kids, pinch the hook barb flat with pliers first - easier releases and far fewer trips to the first aid kit.
What to Use, By Species
Panfish (bluegill, sunfish, crappie)Hook: Size 8-10Bait: A piece of worm the size of a thumbnailSetup: Bobber, shallow water, near structure
Trout (streams)Hook: Size 8-12Bait: Match what’s hatching if visible; otherwise a small spinner or gold spoonSetup: Light line, drift with the current
BassHook: Size 1-4, weedlessBait: A 4-6 inch soft plastic wormSetup: Slow retrieve near structure; slower still in cold water
CatfishHook: Size 1-4Bait: Strong-smelling dough bait or cut baitSetup: Heavy sinker, no bobber, on the bottom
Not sure where to start? A nightcrawler on a size 8 hook under a bobber catches bass, panfish, catfish, and trout - the closest thing to a universal first choice.
Catch & Release
- Land it quicklyA long fight exhausts the fish before it ever reaches your hands.
- Wet your handsDry hands strip the slime coat that protects the fish from infection.
- Hold it horizontallyOne hand under the belly, one near the tail. Never squeeze, and never lift by the gills or jaw.
- Remove the hookBack it out the way it went in. If it’s deep, cut the line close instead of digging for it - the hook will dissolve.
- Let it swim offLower it into the water facing the current and let it kick free on its own. Don’t toss it.
Most states require a fishing license for anglers above a certain age, and set their own size and bag limits by species and water. Check your state wildlife agency's rules before you cast.