How to Start Fishing for Beginners
Beginner’s Guide to River Fishing: Gear, Techniques, and My First-Time Experience
“Fishing sounds fun, but I don’t know where to start…”
If that’s how you feel, don’t worry—you’re not alone!
River fishing is one of the easiest and most relaxing ways for beginners to get into fishing. It doesn’t require complicated gear, and just being in nature is already a reward in itself.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started, including essential gear, basic techniques, and even my personal experience from my first river fishing trip.
- What Is River Fishing?
As the name suggests, river fishing means fishing in rivers or streams. Compared to sea fishing, it's much calmer—no big waves, and the water is often shallow. That makes it perfect for beginners, families, and kids.
Common fish you might catch (depending on the area):
Dace
Japanese minnows
Yamame trout (in some regions)
Rainbow trout (in stocked rivers)
On my first try, I caught a small dace, and I can still remember the excitement—it was amazing!
- Essential Gear for Beginners
Fishing might sound complicated, but you only need a few basic items to start river fishing.
Gear What It’s For
Fishing Rod (Tenkara or pole rod) A simple rod without a reel. Around 2–3 meters is great for beginners.
Fishing Line The line attached to your rod. Often included in beginner kits.
Hooks & Rigs Pre-tied beginner rigs are very convenient.
Bait Worms or dough bait. Ask your local shop for “river bait.”
Bucket or Cooler To hold your catch. Even a ziplock bag works.
Towel/Wipes Your hands will get dirty—better to be prepared!
💡 Tip: You can find beginner river fishing sets for about $20–30. That’s what I used for my first trip!
- My First-Time River Fishing Experience
Here’s how my first trip went, step by step:
STEP 1: Find a good spot
We chose a shallow area with clear water where we could see fish swimming.
STEP 2: Set up the rig
I watched a YouTube video in advance to figure out how to attach the hook and line. I managed to do it myself—felt like a small victory!
STEP 3: Add bait and cast
I rolled a bit of dough bait and dropped it into the river.
STEP 4: Wait... and then—bite!
Suddenly, I felt a little tug on the rod. I pulled it up—and there it was! My first fish! A 15cm dace, sparkling in the sun.
We stayed for about two hours and caught five fish total. Not bad for a first try!
- Things to Watch Out For
Check for fishing regulations or permits in your area
Be careful of slippery rocks
Take your trash home
Wear sun protection, even near the river!
- Summary: Start Simple and Have Fun!
River fishing is a relaxing and easy outdoor hobby for anyone. No special skills required—just a bit of curiosity and the right spot.
So, why not give it a try next weekend?
🎣 Bonus: Best River Fishing Spots for Beginners & Easy Tips to Catch More Fish
Let’s take it one step further. You’ve got your gear and know the basics—now, where should you go, and how can you increase your chances of catching something?
- Best Places for Beginner River Fishing
✅ Managed Fishing Ponds (Fishing Parks)
These are paid fishing areas where fish are stocked, and facilities are well maintained. Perfect for first-timers!
Benefits:
High chances of catching fish
Easy access to restrooms and rental gear
Safe and family-friendly
Examples in Japan (by region):
Fish-On! Ozenji (Kanagawa)
Akikawa International Trout Fishing Ground (Tokyo)
Nagomi-no-ko Lake (Shiga)
Katsura River Fly & Lure Area (Yamanashi)
Search Google Maps: "your prefecture + managed fishing spot" to find nearby places.
✅ Local Rivers & Streams (Free and Natural)
If you’d rather try it out in nature for free, check local rivers.
Look for spots that are:
Shallow and calm
Easy to access (near bridges or riverbanks)
Already have other anglers fishing
⚠️ Be sure to check if fishing is allowed. Search: "River name + fishing + permitted" in Japanese.
- Simple Tips to Catch More Fish
Even beginners can catch more with a few easy tricks:
🎯 Tip 1: Fish during the “bite times”
Morning (7–9am) and evening (4–6pm) are the best times when fish are most active.
🎯 Tip 2: Use smaller bait
If you’re not getting bites, try using less bait on the hook. Smaller bites feel safer to fish!
I tried this and it worked right away—I had been using way too much at first!
🎯 Tip 3: Don’t move the rod too much
Once your bait is in the water, keep the rod still. Fish don’t like too much movement. Just wait until you feel a nibble—then lift the rod gently.
- Final Thoughts: A Simple Hobby That Brings Big Joy
Fishing doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Just find a peaceful river, grab a beginner set, and let nature do the rest.
Whether you're solo, with a friend, or taking your kids, river fishing is a perfect weekend adventure.