Showing posts with label Fishing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fishing. Show all posts

Monday, June 23, 2014

Are You Losing Fish Because Your Hook Isn't Sharp?

One of the things many fishermen neglect is hook care. Have you ever lost a big fish that was on and wondered why? Maybe, your hook wasn't sharp.

If you fish brushpiles, gravel beds, rockpiles, log jams, bridge pilings, timber and boat docks you need to check your hooks for sharpness. A sharpening tool should be a regular part of your tackle box. If you're on your way to fish and don't have a sharpener go to a drug store and get a diamond-dust nail file at a drug store. It's important to check your hooks sharpness every time you get snagged.

Here is the way I test my hooks for sharpness:
Grab the shank of the hook in one hand and gently put the point on your thumbnail, don't apply any force or pressure whatsoever. Now, try and move the hook across your thumbnail, if the point digs in then the hook is sharp.

I also use this method for my pocket knife to test it's sharpness.

Sharp hooks can make your fishing trip a success or failure.  The big one doesn't have to get away when you have a sharp hook.

Are You Holding Your Mouth Right To Catch More Fish?

My young stepson and I was fishing at Rush Creek and using the same rod and reel, line and lure. Everything was exactly the same, the problem was I had caught about a dozen bass and he hadn't caught any and we were only standing about 10 feet apart.

He finally asked me why I was catching all the fish and he wasn't. I said "Well John, you're not holding your mouth right". He said "How am I suppose to Hold it?". I said "like this". I made some strange face and had my lip stuck out and my face all messed up. So, I looked over and seen him trying to mimic the face I made and just fishing away.

I never thought any more about it. About 2 months later, he went up to the mountains of California and was fishing for trout at his grandparent's cabin. He was standing by the stream and his grandfather came along to check on him. His grandfather kept watching and talking to him and finally said "John is there something wrong with your face? Are you sick?".

So John explained I had told him to make his face like that to catch more fish. His grandfather tried not to laugh and went on his way to tell John's grandmother who told my wife and it got back to me.

I haven't seen John in some time now due to his mother and me splitting up about 20 years ago but I will always have pleasant thoughts of him as my fishing buddy and him holding his mouth right to catch more fish.

Are You Choosing the Right Type of Bait to Lure Your Fish?

When most people think of Bass Fishing Bait, what comes to mind is usually basic information that’s not particularly interesting or beneficial. But there’s a lot more to choosing the right Bass Fishing Bait than just the basics.

Most of this information comes straight from the Bass Fishing pros who know what type of the bait is best to lure your fish. Careful reading to the end virtually guarantees that you’ll know what they know.

How can you catch a big fish? How can you attract those fish when daytime? How can you have the best catch of your life? May be you need to seduce those fish to come into your fishing rod. But what you really need is the best fishing lure.

Fishing lures is very important to bass fishing because it will help you catch more fish or even win that very important fishing tournament. There are various types of lures that are used specifically for bass fishing. There are fishing lures each for use in luring small fish, for fish living in shallow waters, for fast swimming fish, for big and large fish as well as for a big-mouthed fish.

In Bass fishing you need to pull the fish’s attention towards you. Fishing lures help you to excite the fish awareness. Some of the lures contain a rotating and shaking action and it produces an overall thrill for the starving trout, pinfish or bass into a feeding emotion.

Some of the Bass fishing lures create a charm for the fish and works in wonders in catching your favorite fish. They come up with a multi-color design so that the fish can see the lures clearly and get attracted. A fish-like imitation also makes a fish swims fast towards it. This is one of the oldest form of fishing lures.

Other Bass Fishing lures are also designed to be thick in the middle and have a curve at the both edges to create an angle when it is soaked on the water. The design and its actions of the fish lures will also let you manipulate the fish and you will catch them in the easiest way.

To look more fashionable some of the fishermen have a different color for their fishing lures, like the silver, gold plated, red/white, firetiger, lightning flash, rainbow color, shades of red gold and the yellow slash.

Bass fishing lures comes in a different size; some of them are slender and thin, others are big with tiny edges, depending upon the size of the fish you want to catch. If you want to catch a small fish and the fishing lures you are using are very big the fish might think that it is a predator and he will not go to your hook. Fishing lures should also depend upon the size of the fishing hook.

Several of the Bass Fishing lures also vary in the weight, some fishing lures are ultra light and they are angled so that it will cause a spin. As an effect of the angel the fishing lure will be consistent on its action, it can also have the territorial defense against the instinct of the predator fish.

Added features to the lures like a life-like fish shape can also be a very effective way to catch the attention of the fish. These fishes have three-dimensional images that will make the lure look irresistible. Several types of life-like fish lures have sparkling eyes so that it would be easy for the fish to identify the lure and the fish will get tempted.

If you want to have deep fishing lures, those with tight design will exile, break and do better than any other crankbaits. Because of the features a wobbling effect in swallow water. Some of professional anglers add some blood on their crank baits so that hungry fish will immediately recognize it and swim towards the lure. Afterwards if the fish already take up the scent of blood, the fish will surely bite the hook.

You must choose the best way to attract the fish. It is not about fooling the fish, it is about thinking of the wisest idea in order for you to attract them.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action. Go fishing!

Angling Basics: What You Need To Know About Fishing Reels

No matter what level of experience you have as a fisherman, you will benefit greatly from having the right reel for the job.  You can easily learn what you should be using though and improve your skill because of it.  There are three different types that you need to consider.  These are the casting reel, the fly casting reel and the spin casting reel.

The Bait Casting Reel

These are quite difficult.  The line on them is pulled off the rod by the lure’s weight.  It is then thrust forward in the motion of casting.  They provide a device that lays the line evenly across the rotating cylinder that acts like the core of the reel.  Without a smooth cast it will cause problems when the line is reeled in.  The line can become tangled, too. 

The Fly Fishing Reel

In a fly fishing real, you need to insure that it has a drag that is very responsive.  Then, you’ll need to purchase a reel that can stand the tension and strain put on it by a large fish.  These are more expensive reels than other types.  Make sure to check to make sure there are no plastic parts on the reel.  All metal reels are much more dependable and they make it worth the price.

The Spinning Reel

The closed faced reel is the inexpensive spinning reel.  It is also fairly easy to control.  This is probably the choice you would make for those who are learning to fish.  They have a push button release for casting. They have an opening at the top where the line comes out when you cast.  The reel will mount on your rod. 

The open faced spinning rod is a more challenging option.  It comes in many sizes to fit your needs.  The lightest models are excellent for pan fish.  Larger choices will help you with game fishing or ocean fishing.  The line capacity on these is greater and is serviceable when you are after trout or even salmon.  They offer a smooth drag.  Although you can start with a closed face, you can improve your skills and move on to the open faced. 

If you are only choosing one type of reel, go with a medium speed one.  If two, then look for both a low speed and a high speed.  Also, you should choose the right reel depending on if you are left handed or right handed.  Also, remember that the lighter the line is, the smaller the reel.  You’ll need to insure that the fishing line and the fishing reel will work together well.

You can get help with learning what type of reel to purchase from the salespeople at the fishing tackle shop.

Alaska's King Salmon - Tackle And Technique

The Alaska King Salmon is the official state fish and ultimate prize for any fisherman looking for the excitement of landing a big one. King Salmon in the world famous Kenai River are plentiful and huge. Sport fishermen in the Kenai have caught trophy salmon weighing nearly 100-pounds, and it’s not unusual for anglers to haul in 40 and 50 pounders. Thousands of people travel to the Kenai River and, with a licensed river guide, pursue its most prized bounty-- the King.

What do you use for bait? There are a few types of rigs that are best for attracting Alaska King Salmon. Spin-N-Glows, Vibrex Spinners, and plugs are three effective lures that usually provide optimum results. Two common fishing techniques used on guide boats on the Kenai are back trolling and drifting; while a third and relatively new method called back bouncing is also proving to be effective.

Back trolling usually incorporates Spin-N-Glows and salmon eggs or plugs. Some other effective lures for back trolling are Magnum Wiggle Worts, Flashtrap Spinners, Tadpollys, Kwikfish and Flatfish. In addition to the lure, you may also, depending upon the current, depth of the water, and location on the river, utilize divers, trolling weights, and diving lures. Baits that move erratically and rotate, especially those that create the illusion of a water creature in distress, will help attract salmon.

When back trolling, the guide has the boat work against the current, running the motor at the same speed or a bit slower than the river. This helps hold the boat in the same position on or to move slowly down the river. The boat should be moving downstream slower than the current while the lures are downstream ahead of the boat. Usually the bait moves close to the bottom of the river with a diver or weight attached 18 inches away from it to allow for proper depth. You’ll know you’ve got a King Salmon on your line when the rod goes down and stays down.

Drifting is similar to back trolling except the bait is allowed to gently bounce off the bottom of the river while the boat drifts with the current. Weights are used to keep the line at the correct depth. This technique is difficult to master since it’s not necessarily east to differentiate between a fish taking the bait and your line hitting off the bottom. A pause in the movement of the line often indicates a hit.

With back bouncing, the bait is bounced off the bottom as the boat is slowly backed over a hole. Sink-N-Glows, a Vibrex spinner or similar lures when properly weighted often yield good results. When fishing, if you feel a tug set the hook chances are there is a salmon there.

If using a plug, you’ll want to utilize K-15’s or K-16’s - you need something large. Divers work well to get the plug to the right depth and colorful, gaudy colors are recommended due to their ability to attract attention.

If you’re planning on fishing the Kenai River and can’t locate the right type of lure at home, don’t worry. Some of these items may not be accessible in your region of the country but bait and tackle shops throughout the Kenai have no lack of Spin-N-Glows, Vibrex spinners, Tadpollys, Kwikfish and more.

If you elect to book your fishing trip through a licensed guide, you’ll find that their knowledge, skill, and supplies will result in a less stressful and a more productive trip. When you go fishing for the Alaska King Salmon you want to exploit every opportunity you have to make your limit, enjoying some of the best fishing on this earth.

Alaska Fishing Lodge: The Nature’s Abode

Recreation is an important aspect in the life of human beings. Anglers represent the major group of leisure seekers, and have a determined advantage over the other groups who make use of nature’s wonderful creatures and elements for food.

Consequently, the popularity of fishing in many areas had continuously dominated the society. That is why along with its series of activities, people now realize the need for fishing lodges especially in places where fishing activities seem to never end.

Among all fishing lodges available in the industry today, the Alaska Fishing Lodges are among the most treasured and most popular fishing lodges in the United States.

The Alaska Fishing Lodge provides its customers full customer service satisfaction with their wide array of fishing activities and endless strings of fishing fun.

Normally, Alaska Fishing Lodges are made up of logs; sturdily build to provide each angler optimum convenience and comfort. It is known for its spacious interiors, creatively decorated with the right embellishments, thereby, setting the mood for fishing and wilderness.

In addition, because it carries the true Alaskan heritage, Alaska Fishing Lodges offer services and products that can be afforded by anyone. With its affordable rates, the place is inhabited by people, who mostly want to enjoy life and fishing but cannot afford to buy the pleasures in expensive beaches and lodges.

Best of all, Alaska Fishing Lodges are perfectly located in areas where the waters are abundant with the different species of fish. Usually, these lodges are situated in a place where trout, northern pike, and grayling mostly inhabit the waters.

On the other hand, most Alaska Fishing Lodges are built big enough to occupy 16 guests, in which each guest can avail of personal and individualized services.

Moreover, this type of lodge also houses a place where king salmon are abundant especially during the months of June and early part of July. Most lodges also provide a wide variety of fishing equipment, from rods to tackles and lines.

With all these beautiful features present in every Alaska Fishing Lodge, there is no better place to enjoy fishing and the wilderness like what this particular lodge can offer.

Staying in an Alaska Fishing Lodge is, indeed, an ultimate fishing experience.

Advantages And Disadvantages of Fly Fishing From A Canoe

Some people like to fly fish from their canoe. But there are advantages and disadvantages to this unusual combinations of activities.

People usually fly fish from land, standing still in water or from a larger boat. Fly fishing from a canoe may seem crazy at first, but there are many advantages to be had. There are also disadvantages, but after you overcome them, you are sure to have a wonderful fishing adventure.

Disadvantages

You will have to overcome some disadvantages before you even try to fly fish from a canoe. You might find it hard in the beginning to maintain control of your line since you are closer to the water than usual. If you catch a fish, you might find it difficult to reel in without tipping the canoe. Especially if it is a giant fish! Another disadvantage might be the tendency of the canoe to disturb the water. If you can stay motionless and are accustomed to the boat then disturbing the water will not be a problem. When you get over these few disadvantages, you will experience the best fishing ever!

Advantages

The advantages of fly fishing in a canoe are significant if you can overcome the disadvantages listed above. Being in a canoe lets the fisher go over more water quickly. This is essential for good fly fishing. You can also get into untapped fishing holes that otherwise they would not have been able to reach. Such locations usually do not allow motor boats, so a canoe is excellent! Another advantage is the silence. They do not have loud motors or propellers, only smooth, quiet rowing. This is an essential factor for fly fishers!

If you have a canoe, you are ready to try fly fishing. It is helpful for you to own the shortest canoe you can get. A shorter boat will make fly fishing a lot easier. Try it sometime. It is relaxing and fun.

A Portable And Easy To Use System To Locate Your Fish

The Humminbird Piranha 10 offers some of the features of your favorite fish finding tools in a portable, easy to use system.  Here are some of its features that we think will prove to you that all this is a system that is simply a must have. 

The display starts with a high definition 106V by 132 H.  This is a nice sized screen that will give you a good picture of what’s below the waters!

It features a true four level grayscale.  This provides you with a very clear, crisp look of the bottom as well as any structures and fish lurking below as well.  This is essential so that you can find and lure them in!

You can use One-Touch control to access full sets of advanced features.  You get access to all of the features you want so badly!

The Humminbird Piranha also features a water temperature gauge is included in the transducer.  This will help you know if the water is warm enough for your fish or if you need move.

To make your trip easy, you’ll find that the portable offers a rugged, portable case which will protect your fishfinder in case it gets in harms way.  It features a no skid bottom to keep it in place when you need it to be.  This allows for you to be comfortable leaving it where you can view it while you use your hands for your fish lures.  It also has a suction cup transducer that will punt to aluminum, wood, fiberglass so that you have a secure way to hold your fishfinder is place.

There are many reasons to purchase the Humminbird Piranha 10.  It gives you a portable, easy to use system to locating your fish.  It allows you to find, lure in and secure your fish.  Imagine coming home after a hot day on the waters and still having time to relax in front of the television because it only took you half as long to find your fish!

A New World Record Bass

Many people go to Florida to fish for that trophy bass but did you know that 4 other states have a bigger state record than Florida? Not only that but one of the states is said to have produced a new world record.

Florida's record bass is 17.27 pounds, but others often cite an uncertified fish of 20.125 pounds (a fisheries biologist did not physically see the fish to certify it). Leaha Trew supposely caught a new world record largemouth in California. It weighed 22 pounds, 8 ounces, beating George Perry's 1932 record catch by 4 ounces. The problem is there was only one picture taken of it and it wasn't certified by a biologist or an California state fish and game official.

Where is the next world record coming from? Florida, Georgia, Mississippi or Texas? More than likely it will be from California. Gregg Silks has already caught 2 bass over twenty pounds and says he has lost a world record fish of 24 pounds. Who is to argue with him since he knows what 20 pound plus bass look like? 22 of 25 of the largest bass ever recorded has come from California. The next world record bass in my opinion, is going to be from the lakes of San Diego water system.

Just look at the stats:
Dixon: 21 pounds 11 ounce bass
Jennings: 18 pounds plus
Murray: 18 pounds plus
Poway: 18 pound 2 ounce

These are just a few of the lakes, all the lakes holds monster bass. Not only that, there are big bass all over California, Leaha Trew caught her bass in Sonoma County. While I am not taking anything away from Florida, as I have lived there and seen many 10 pound plus bass taken from there, California is growing bigger bass and people are catching them.

Just check with the water district before you plan a trip as some have restrictions and are closed at certain times.

For more information about the San Diego Lakes, log on to:

www.sdfish.com

A Day Too Full To Improve

A day too full to fix with the weekend upon, and I’m closing a week with no sleep and the evasion of stress. A good friend and I headed to southern CT's coast for a business meeting with a fly shop owner that a local guide/ friend set up.

Fish stories and business talk wrap up a new friendship with a group of guys, as the windiest, wettest, and coldest rod casting demo of 06’ took place, we finished our business.

My travel companion and I followed a friend and guide a little north up the coast to a spot we were supposed to fish in the early morning on the right tide before anything took place.

Lack of sleep combined with a burnt out body from a crazy work week, broke my will to start the day with good fishing. Causing me to settle for the worst time and conditions the day could present this point near the mouth of the river.

My motto: “you can’t catch a fish if your not fishing” sometimes you just can’t catch a fish.

On water we had never fished. We followed instructions from my local friend and fish guru and began our mile walk to the end of this point near the mouth of the river. With a beautiful 40 degrees, rain, 30 plus mph windy day on our plate, We headed out to fish southern CT. In the past, my luck and skills haven’t always matched up to my local waters where I guide. So far work has kept me off the water, and night fishing is not yet rockin’ and rollin’. Fearless of the warning that we are fishing the wrong tide and will not catch fish , we charge to the point; “ there are schoolies, we’ll still get into some fish” .It may not be the countless numbers the morning bite produced, but fish none the less.

5 casts and the phone rings, my local buddy asks “did you get fish yet?” “No” “told ya” he says, “wait until 6:30pm when the tide starts to change. It already 3:30 and I have to be off the water at a quarter to 6. As I get off the phone, a few minuets later a hit, and a fish! First Striper of the season. It came much later than I’m used to. Work has also kept me off Martha's Vineyard, and I’m not booked with client until May.

There's a light at the end of this dark tunnel. We are sure to catch more fish. Two hours pass and neither of us have had a single hit.

Meanwhile on the south side of the shore, gulls are working the heck out of this cove. Barely able to fly in the wind, they are a bitter sweet reminder that the fish are there, but not near us. At this time my gut starts to tell me that it’s time to leave, not for food , but the small still voice that says “its over, your not getting one more fish” This voice has lead to many great days of fishing, and has also ended some bad ones.

Is this way too much work for one small fish? This is for a guy who spends most of his time throwing 16 inch eels at 2:00 am to catch cow bass. I’m cold, tired and run down. My friend has had a hard second year of fly fishing. No steel heard for him this winter, skunked today. I look over with concern that the crack in the joy of fishing might have set in on his face. All I see is a big bright, red, wet wind beaten smile. “you wanna go or keep fishing?” he said. I’ve gotta go it’s two and a half hours home and I still have to meet this guy about a fly fishing thing.

It’s not always about the fish or even the time on the water. It ‘s about getting out there when the rest of the world is not and beating a path through the jungle of life to get your sliver of escape in. Weather its one hour or a twenty hour hard core run, stop, Listen to Your Passion, its always worth it.

A Beginners Guide To Fishing

If you are new to the sport of fishing, you need to know some of the basic rules of fishing. Like other forms of hunting, fishing involves both your environment and those around you. Be respectful of both. You can responsibly enjoy this treasured pastime in several ways.  Fishing is an ancient practice. It dates back nearly 10,000 years.

A number of various techniques and traditions have been used during fishing's progression. Modern technological developments have changed the way people fish, but many of the same rules, regulations, and social norms involving fishing remain.  Always practice good stewardship of our waterways when you are fishing. Remember that these waterways were around thousands of years before you and will remain long after we are gone. You can make a conscious decision to leave the areas in which people fish in better condition than when you found it. Take care of our lakes, rivers, and other waterways so that others will enjoy these areas for years to come.

Practicing certain behaviors will ensure that you are taking good care of the places where people fish.  Never litter when you are fishing. Always bring a trash bag or other receptacle to use for the collection of your trash. You can easily deposit it in a nearby trash receptacle. Dump your refuse in properly assigned dumping stations instead of tossing it in the water. You do not need to spend much time figuring out the many ways in which this hurts the environment.  As you fish, always use the correct type of bait and fishing gear. Certain areas allow for certain bait and gear. You will also encounter limits on the number, size, and kind of fish that you can keep. Become familiar with what these limits are and pay attention to them. Do not wait until you are at your fishing spot to search for what is allowed and what is not. Check with your destination before you head out on your fishing trip to see what the local regulations allow. If you plan on using a boat while fishing, research to see what kinds of watercraft are allowed where you are going to fish. 

Every fishing location is different, so pay special attention to local procedures and cautions. This also applies when you decide to clean your boat after you leave the water. You do not want to spread non-native species to another body of water.  Finally, never fish where it is not permitted. There is always a reason why it is illegal. Some reasons include the protection of certain wildlife, the proper care of vegetation, and the safety of you and others who want to fish.  You should also follow a number of cautionary behaviors to ensure your safety.

As with all forms of hunting, safety is first. If you will be using a boat while you fish, always wear your life jacket. Make sure that your passengers wear their life jackets, as well.  Be very careful when baiting and removing hooks. Make sure that you never fish on unauthorized waterways. Follow the posted speed limits and wake warnings that accompany the use of a boat. Bring with you all relevant safety items, such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone.  Fishing continues to be a favorite pastime. 2001 saw nearly 16% of the U.S. population over the age of 16 spend 16 days fishing. You enjoy the sport of fishing, so follow the rules that allow for the continuation of fishing. Be responsible and courteous of others and your environment. Take time to discover how you can be both a better and safer angler.

5 Useful Tips On Trout Fishing

In fishing, trout are one of the favorite “fishing friends” of most anglers. These crafty fish are abundant anywhere. The native habitat of these crafty fish depends on the type of trout.

For brook trout, the native habitat includes the territory from Labrador westward to the Saskatchewan, while the rainbow trout is a native of the Pacific slope from Alaska to California.

On the other hand, brown trout has found its way into the waters of every state in the United States except Florida, Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Texas. It has been reported in the waters of some of these states, but according to conservation officials, no authentic reports have been received. It is also found in many parts of Canada.

In trout fishing, there are some factors that need to be considered in order to have a successful catch.

1. For trout fishing, the leader should not be greased. It will not sink far enough to cause any difficulty when picking the line and lure from the water, but if it is allowed to float; it will cast a shadow on the bottom of the stream which may scare the trout.

2. The trout is one of the fishes that are usually secured through the use of the dry fly. For trout, the current as well as the pools should be fished. It may sometimes be a bit difficult to keep the fly from sinking or dragging because of the various conditions of the current, but this is a matter that the angler will have to figure out for himself.

3. It is not good practice when fishing for trout to fish directly upstream so the flies, line, and leader will float directly over fish. The fisherman should make the cast from one side of the stream so the fly will only float over the fish.

4. It is important to make the first cast the best. A feeding trout will usually strike the first lure presented if it is cast so that it will float over his private domain. The angler should never fail to fish the lower end of the pool first even if the trout are rising in the middle or upper end.

5. Trout are sometimes very moody or selective and will try the patience of any angler; hence, possibly a fly with less hackle will do the trick or it may be necessary to use a spent-wing fly or a fan wing.

Indeed, catching trout fishes can be lots of fun. The anglers just have to remember these tips in order to have a happy catch.

Fishing Kit Basics

Before going deeper into the technicalities, make sure that a fishing license is secured. To be an amateur fisherman there are basic pieces of fishing equipment needed to complete your exciting journey in the fishing world. Knowing the line type and matching the right rod and reel to the fishing technique is just basic common sense. Match these tools appropriately and expect a more enjoyable experience for a more comfortable fishing. There are several things that causes the reel to turn into a bird's nest, don't worry, even experienced fishermen encounter this every now and then.

The main objective is to match the rod, the reel, the line and the lure. These will only cost a newbie around $25 to $40 and they could last for years. The 3 main issues when shopping for a rod are: Guides that are attached to the rod; Grip or handle holds the rod and could come in either cork or foam. They come in different lengths so the comfort to the user must be considered; and the reel seat where the reel is connected.

Dealers make a lot of fishing rods that could either be single or consist of two or more pieces when assembled. The connection is very simple; just connect the male and female ends together to make sure the guides are lined up. This would only last for a minutes. Sometimes, lubricants are needed. When shopping for a rod, slightly bend it to get the feel of it. Again comfort should be considered when using the equipment.

Rods of any type will work. It should be around 6' long and medium weight. Even a long stick will work. This should be long, straight and flexible so it will not easily break. The most popular rod is Graphite because it is so light yet so strong. Wispy rods should be up to 4m long to be used for long casts in moderate winds.

There are a lot of fishing lines to choose from and it can be very confusing to find the best. It is mostly made of nylon and "monofilament" that comes in spools of different lengths that are called Tests. The larger the fishing line the thicker it is in diameter. Find a piece of a 4lb. or 4 lb. Test that is almost 10' long for the basic rig.

The basic rule is that all the gears should match. To summarize your fishing kit, it should include other stuff as well: net, stringer, line clippers, fishing knife, first aid box, a pail of bait, sunglasses, fishing hat, and talking about the basics, don't forget your SNACKS!