An independent fishing guide. We do not sell tackle or run competitions. Check bag limits, closed seasons and permitted waters in the fishing rules for your region.
Tackle and gear
It is easy to get lost in a tackle shop: there are thousands of items, and each one promises fish. In reality you need little to start, and what matters more is understanding what each item is for. Here are the main rods and reels, terminal tackle, and gear for safety and comfort. We name no brands, prices or "best models": only the purpose, a general description and a practical tip.
The most important item in an angler's bag is not the reel but the life jacket or ice picks. Buy them first.
How this section works: gear is included if it is needed for common fishing methods or for safety. We do not compile rankings or recommend specific models or shops.
The basis of any setup is a rod matched to the fishing method, with a reel to go with it.
Comes without a reel, for fishing close in, or with a reel for casting further. Choose the length to suit the water and the distance to where you will fish.
Tip: For a first trip, a simple medium-length rod is enough. What matters more is that it is comfortable to handle all day.
A rod with several interchangeable sensitive quivertips that show the bite. It is rated for casting feeders of a particular weight.
Tip: Choose a rod for the feeder weights and distances you will actually fish, not one for every situation.
The rod is rated for a range of lure weights and transmits the lure's action and the bite to your hand. There are versions for bank and boat fishing.
Tip: Make sure the lure weight range on the rod matches the lures you will be using.
The most common reel type for float, feeder and spinning. The reel's drag releases line when a fish makes a strong run.
Tip: Check and set the drag before fishing: it should slip before the line breaks.
Everything between the rod and the fish, from the line to the feeder.
Monofilament line stretches and forgives sudden lunges. Braided line barely stretches and transmits bites better, but needs careful handling.
Tip: Regularly check the first few metres of line near the lure: that is where it gets worn most often.
Size and shape are chosen to suit the bait and the fish. Barbless hooks are easier to remove and gentler on fish you plan to release.
Tip: A blunt hook is a common reason for lost fish. Carry spares and change hooks without hesitation.
Weights sink the bait and balance the float. Choose the float to suit the current, wind and the weight of the rig.
Tip: Shot the float so that only a small tip shows above the water: this makes bites easier to see.
Used in feeder and bottom fishing. They differ in shape, weight and how quickly they release the feed.
Tip: Choose feeder weight to suit the current and casting distance, rather than assuming heavier is always safer.
Items that will not increase your catch but will get you home without incident.
Keeps a person afloat even when tired, cold or panicking. In a boat it is worn, not kept under the seat.
Tip: Try the life jacket on over the clothes you will fish in and fasten all the straps.
An ice chisel is used to test the ice before every step on unfamiliar ground. Ice picks, a pair of hand spikes on a cord, help you climb back onto the ice if you fall through. Carry a rescue rope with them.
Tip: Wear ice picks on your body, not in your box: in the water there will be no time to look for them.
A thin base layer, an insulating layer and an outer layer that keeps out wind and water. Layers can be removed or added as the weather changes.
Tip: Bring spare socks and gloves: wet hands and feet lead to hypothermia faster than anything else.
Supplies for cleaning wounds and cuts, plasters, a bandage and personal medicines. Hooks and knives are a common cause of injuries when fishing.
Tip: Keep the kit in a waterproof bag and check its contents before the season.
Casting, presentation, striking, playing fish, reading the water and catch and release done right.
A step-by-step article for those just starting out: tackle, where to fish, rules and safety.
Answers to common questions about fishing rules, safety on ice and water, tackle and your catch.
Bag limits, closed seasons and permitted waters are set by the fishing rules for each area, and competition procedures by the rules of the sport and each event's regulations. The Russian rules described here apply in Russia; elsewhere, check your local fishing rules and licence requirements before you go.