Angler

Person who fishes with a rod and line

For the fish, see Anglerfish.

For other uses, see Angler (disambiguation).

An angler is a person who engages in the practice of fishing using a fishing rod and fishing line. Anglers typically fish for recreational purposes, although some may also fish for commercial or subsistence reasons. The term "angler" is often used to distinguish those who fish with a rod and line from those who use other methods, such as net fishing or spear fishing.

History

The practice of angling dates back thousands of years, with evidence of fishing with hooks and lines found in ancient civilizations such as Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece. The development of angling as a recreational activity began in the 17th century, particularly in England, where it became a popular pastime among the upper classes.

Techniques

Anglers use a variety of techniques to catch fish, including:

• Fly fishing: Using artificial flies to mimic the appearance of insects.
• Bait fishing: Using live or dead bait to attract fish.
• Lure fishing: Using artificial lures designed to resemble prey.

Equipment

The basic equipment used by anglers includes:

• Fishing rod: A long, flexible rod used to cast the line and reel in fish.
• Fishing reel: A device attached to the rod that holds and releases the fishing line.
• Fishing line: A thin, strong line used to catch fish.
• Fishing hook: A sharp hook used to catch fish by impaling them in the mouth.

Types of Angling

There are several types of angling, each with its own specific techniques and equipment:

• Freshwater fishing: Fishing in rivers, lakes, and streams.
• Saltwater fishing: Fishing in oceans and seas.
• Ice fishing: Fishing through holes drilled in ice-covered bodies of water.

Conservation

Many anglers are involved in conservation efforts to protect fish populations and their habitats. This includes practices such as catch and release, where fish are caught and then released back into the water, and participating in habitat restoration projects.

Related Pages

• Fishing
• Fly fishing
• Fishing rod
• Fishing reel
• Fishing line
• Fishing hook
• Freshwater fishing
• Saltwater fishing
• Ice fishing
• Conservation