Knowing Your Catch: Essential Fish Species
Fishing is a popular activity that people around the world engage in for recreational and even subsistence purposes. It can often be difficult to identify certain species of fish, but knowing exactly what you’re aiming for is an essential part of any successful fishing trip. In this article we will be taking a look at what it takes to identify some essential fish species, in order to make sure your catch is one that you can be proud of.
Identifying Fish Species
In order to identify fish species properly, it is important to take note of a few key features. This includes the size, shape, colouring and markings of the fish, as well as any distinguishing features it may possess. It is also important to pay attention to where the fish is found and what type of environment it typically lives in. These pieces of information can be crucial in correctly identifying the type of fish you have caught.
Essential Fish Species
There are many different types of fish, but some are particularly popular with anglers. Here we will take a closer look at some of the more essential fish species that can often be found in the waters of North America.
Bass
The Bass is one of the most popular game fish types in North America, as it is prized for its aggressive strikes and tasty fillets. There are several different types of Bass, including Large-Mouth Bass, Small-Mouth Bass and Spotted Bass. The Large-Mouth Bass is the most common and recognizable, featuring a pointed head and darker colouration with vertical stripe markings.
Trout
The Trout is another popular species for anglers, and is easy to distinguish from other types of fish. These fish are typically silver with black spots, and have a distinctive forked tail. There are several different types of Trout, including Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout and Brown Trout.
Walleye
Walleye is another popular species, and is easily recognizable by its unmistakable gold or greenish colour. It also has a large eye, or “walleye”, which gives the fish its name. These fish typically inhabit deeper waters and can be found in lakes, rivers and even the ocean.
Pike
The Pike is an aggressive and predatory fish, and is easily identified by its long body, pointed snout and large fins. It is best known for its voracious appetite, and is widely sought after by anglers looking for a unique fish to add to their collection.
Catfish
Catfish is another popular fish species, and is exceptionally easy to identify due its whiskers and large size. These fish tend to inhabit slow moving waters and are often found in small rivers or ponds. Catfish are also easy to catch and make for a delicious meal.
Carp
Carp is another hard to miss species of fish, and can often be found in large bodies of water. This fish has a golden or brown hue and can grow to an impressive size. It can often be caught on specialised “Carp rigs”, which are designed specifically for Carp fishing.
Conclusion
Knowing your fish species is an essential part of any successful fishing trip. By familiarising yourself with the key features of essential fish species such as Bass, Trout, Walleye, Pike, Catfish and Carp, you will be able to easily identify the fish you have caught and decide whether or not you should keep it. So, keep this information in mind the next time you’re out fishing, and happy angling!