Fishing is a popular activity that involves attempting to catch fish and other aquatic animals. It has been an integral part of human culture since ancient times and continues to thrive in modern society. Fishing techniques range from traditional methods like hand-gathering and angling to more destructive practices like blasting and poisoning, which are illegal and harmful to the environment.
While fishing primarily focuses on catching fish, it can also involve capturing other aquatic creatures such as crustaceans, shellfish, cephalopods, and echinoderms. However, fish farming and hunting aquatic mammals like whales and seals fall outside the scope of fishing.
Fishing holds significant economic importance, providing livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. Commercial fishers and fish farmers contribute to the employment of over 500 million individuals in developing countries. In terms of consumption, the global average per capita fish consumption from wild fisheries and fish farms was 14.4 kilograms (32 lb) and 7.4 kilograms (16 lb), respectively, in 2005.
Various fishing techniques and tactics are employed to catch fish and other aquatic animals. These include hand gathering, spearfishing, netting, angling, and trapping. Recreational, commercial, and artisanal fishers may use different methods depending on their objectives. Recreational fishers engage in fishing for pleasure, sport, or sustenance, while commercial fishers fish for profit. Artisanal fishers rely on traditional, low-tech methods for survival and cultural heritage. Additionally, modern developments like using drones for fishing have emerged.
The success of catching fish often depends on understanding their sensory physiology, behavior, feeding habits, and habitat. Fishing techniques are closely linked to this knowledge, including migration patterns, foraging behaviors, and environmental factors. Some fishers also believe in fishing folklore that suggests fish feeding patterns are influenced by celestial events like the position of the sun and moon.
Fishing tackle refers to the equipment used during fishing, encompassing a wide range of tools and gear. Hooks, lines, sinkers, floats, rods, reels, baits, lures, nets, traps, and tackle boxes are examples of fishing tackle. Terminal tackles, which are attached to the end of the fishing line, include hooks, sinkers, floats, leader lines, swivels, and other accessories that facilitate the fishing process. Bait, both live and dead fish, is commonly used to attract and lure fish.
Overall, fishing is a diverse and dynamic activity that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world, providing sustenance, recreation, and economic opportunities while requiring an understanding of the natural environment and the behavior of aquatic creatures.