Bank fishing

Bank fishing is fishing from places where the land meets the waters edge. Fishing from rocks is usually called rock fishing. Like rock fishing, bank fishing is typically done by casting fishing bait or lures into the water in an attempt to catch fish. Bank fishing is usually performed with a rod and reel but nets, traps, and spears, and fishing lines used without rods can also be used. People who fish from a boat can sometimes access more areas in prime locations with greater ease than bank fishermen. However many people don’t use boats find fishing from a bank has its own advantages. Many things contribute to success in bank fishing, such as local knowledge, water depth, bank structure, location, time of day, and the type of bait and lures.

Fisherman have different preferences about the equipment they use for bank fishing, but most agree with certain basics. Obviously fishing tackle is needed. Most bank fishing is performed with a rod, reel and lures or bait. Often two fishing rods are used. The bait can be changed on one rod while fishing continues with the other. Some fishermen bring a lidded container for the fish they catch which doubles as a seat. Other fishermen bring a to hold the fish they catch. Catch and release fishermen don't need either of these. With growing technology some luxury equipment has been developed such as the fish finder that uses sonar or a camera to physically locate fish. This is typically reserved for boat fishing but can also be applied to bank fishing.

Some fishermen, and even professional anglers, find advantages in fishing from a bank. According to professional angler Joseph Raines, “I've bass fished from the bank most of my life, and have had tremendous success. I have caught all of my 7lb. plus bass from the bank. I recently caught a twelve pound bass right on the bank." Bank fishing requires the fisherman to scout and locate prime fishing locations. Some anglers view this as an advantage because it sharpens their skills by forcing them to pay close attention to important details that boating anglers may miss. Bank fishing can also allow a person to reach areas that a boat can’t, such as shallow or densely covered areas that might be tricky for a boat. Bank fishing can also avoid the costs involved in owning a boat.

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