Angling

Villa of the Nile Mosaic fishermen

Natural history of western wild animals and guide for hunters, trappers, and sportsmen (Pl. XIX) (8465260282)

Nice Crappie (7335780206)

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Fishhook

Clear Fishing Line

Angling is a method of fishing by means of an "angle" (fishing hook). The hook is usually attached to a fishing line and the line is often attached to a fishing rod. Modern fishing rods are usually fitted with a fishing reel that functions as a mechanism for storing, retrieving, and paying out the line. The hook itself can be dressed with baits or lures to attract fish. Angling is a principal method of sport fishing, but commercial fisheries also use angling methods such as longlining or trolling.

History

The practice of angling dates back to ancient times. It is depicted in various ancient art forms, including ancient Egyptian paintings and Chinese artworks. The earliest English essay on recreational fishing was published in 1496, by Dame Juliana Berners, the prioress of the Benedictine Sopwell Nunnery. The essay was titled The Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle as part of the Book of Saint Albans.

Techniques

Angling techniques vary by the type of fish being targeted, the habitat in which the fish live, and the type of water (freshwater or saltwater). Some common angling techniques include:

• Fly fishing: Using artificial flies as lures, which are cast with a special rod and line.
• Bait fishing: Using live or dead bait to attract fish.
• Lure fishing: Using artificial lures to mimic prey and attract fish.
• Ice fishing: Fishing through a cut hole in the ice on top of a body of water.
• Trolling: Drawing a lure or bait through the water behind a moving boat.

Equipment

Essential angling equipment includes the fishing rod, fishing reel, fishing line, and fishing hook. Additional gear may include fishing bait, fishing lures, fishing nets, and fishing sinkers to weigh down the line.

Conservation

Angling, like all forms of fishing, can have impacts on fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. Practices such as catch and release, where fish are unhooked and returned to the water, and the use of barbless hooks to minimize injury to fish, are part of angling's conservation ethic.

Cultural Significance

Angling has been an important recreational activity for centuries, celebrated in literature, art, and film. It is not only a means of subsistence or sport but also a way to connect with nature and practice mindfulness.