*Know your Waters! - Sounds simple, but it is critical. This tip applies to all fisherman, experienced or starting out.
Pick one or two fisheries (lakes, ponds, river, etc.). And get to know these waters well (the targeted species, the local rules, water clarity/levels/currents/flows, and the diet of the fish.). Always use more than one type of lures and or bait too. "Color does matter."
Once you start finding/seeing patterns to the fish, make small adjustments here and there. (Lures vs. baits, location, colors, speed, etc.). The bite isn't always going to be hot, and they may not be biting the same thing(s) the next day. These small adjustments will help you fish through a hard bite. Keep in mind the fish are always biting on something, find it, use it, and don't tell anyone about it.
Make your luck happen.
Match the Hatch - In short, match your lures/bait to what is naturally occurring in or on top of the water. Examples: Bugs/insects, bait fish, amphibians, birds, and crustaceans.
Reaction Bite/Striking - Not hungry? Then make them MAD! Whatever the case may be for the lack of interest, you can work a reaction bite/strike out of the fish. Do keep in mind the size of the lure, try to keep the lure within a reasonable size. (Match the Hatch) Use lures that have traits such as noise, bright colors, flash, vibration, and any aggressive action in the water. If you can, place the lure in sight or right in front of the fish's face. Irritating them into striking your lure. Do Not try to Foul Hooking or Snare fish with your lure. Unless local rules allow it.
Tipping your lures with bait - Worms, leeches, shrimp (raw or cured), salmon eggs (jarred or cured row), minnows, cut bait, power bait, gulp maggots, corn, etc... Know your local water regulations, some of these options listed above may be unlawful to use in specific waters. Artificial is always a great substitute (if allowed). Plastics, such as jigs, worms, grabs, swim baits etc. are great way to add color, flash and movement to your spinners.
Know your lures - Rate of sinking, floating, or suspended. Know how your lures should look and feel when going through the water. Know multiple ways how to fish them as well. (Keep those hooks sharp.) And tune your lures if needed.
The Moon - Where is it in the sky? When is it visible? How big and bright is the moon right now? If so, how long is it visible? Fishing can be affected by the moon. As a fisherman you need to keep the moon in mind, it can put you at a disadvantage, or be your advantage.
For Example, the 6–8-hour rule applies to my local waters when targeting bass and trout. "This rule is very specific to the moon being full or almost full during summer." When the bite turns back on and my line is in the water, it's hard to keep them off the hook. ~Hazz
Confidence is key - Having a plan before you get on the water is awesome, having a plan B, C, and D doesn't hurt either.
Patience - Keep your line in the water. Put that lure/bait right where you want it. After a good 15-20minutes, and no bites, then adjust your lure/bait and recast. Depending on the species, you may need to change tactics or locations overall. Know your waters!
Water temperature - When it comes to temperature, fish aren't all that different from us. During hot summers, finding fresh, deeper, flowing, cooler water is the way to go. And in the winter, find water temperatures that are stable, or where warmer water is flowing in. (Hot springs)
Fresh Fish - You have spent time and money for your fish. And if you are looking to keep some, don't ruin your prize. Keep your fish out of high temperature water, air, or the sun. You will ruin your quality of meat quickly. Unless you plan on eating your fish immediately, keep a cooler with ice on hand. Don't have your meat turn to mush. (Bleeding them out wouldn't hurt.)
Don't overpay for equipment! - It's simple, get the best bang for your buck. Know when and where quality equipment is available. However, don't cripple your fishing abilities by using bad and cheap equipment either. You'll end up sitting and not fishing.
Swivels - The main problem with Spoons/Spinners is line twist. Adding a basic swivel(s) can help prevent line twist, helping the life and quality of your line last longer.
Take someone fishing - Young and old, big, tall, or small. The love and support for the sport is going away! As fisherman it is very important, we grow the love and support for the sport. ….and having someone to watch your back for safety doesn't hurt.
Shut up and Fish - Shut your mouth and enjoy the moment. (Unless you are being guided, business, or catching up with friends/family.)
You packed it in, you pack it out - Keep out water ways, shores, and trails clean. Your grown adult, it's not hard. The last thing we need is more trash leaving their garbage everywhere.
Lifejackets - Don't just have them, wear them.
Respect others - All day, every day, and on every inch of water.
- Your mouth, shut it. Foul and or vulgar language, yelling... It isn't necessary.
- loud music. Keep in mind of others around you. (Havasu is Exempt)
- First come, First serve. If someone has beaten you to the fishing spot, give them room. Do not set up right on top of them! There are more fishing spots, find it, us it, and don't tell anyone about it.
- If you are in a boat, stay away from other boats and shore fishermen. Especially their lines in the water. Period! If you think you are far enough, go farther. (Unfortunately ski boats, and other water sport craft do not consider this as a rule.)
- If someone is in trouble or needs assistance, give a hand.
Support local business - Bait sellers, lure designers/makers, etc. Keep the money flowing. Keep it in the hands of our local fishermen.