Identifying Fish?

ladyrua · #1 04/03/07, 11:34 AM

Okay, so I'm a 100% newbie at fishing, but willing to learn! My DH got me all set up with gear and a license, but he's hasn't got much time to take me so I'm pretty much on my own there. I'm okay with that, I have the basics figured out, but I have what is probably a silly question:

How on earth am I supposed to know what I have hooked? Are there explanatory books out there with pictures of all the different kinds of fish in my area? (SW PA) I read the fishing license book back to front and they've got *some* pics in there, but not very detailed! help!!

I'm also kinda worried that I'll break some fishing customs or traditions unknowingly. Are there any very important "do" vs "don't do" things you'd tell a newbie??

big rockpile · #2 04/03/07, 12:06 PM

We are lucky around our state to have several Aquariums with pictures and people to help identify fish.

big rockpile

moonwolf · #3 04/03/07, 12:59 PM

as a basic angler with priveleges to fish, take the responsibility on yourself to learn what you will fish for, and what you catch is a fish you can identify. You won't learn everything overnight.
The internet is a vast source of knowledge. You might start with google and asking how to identify fish in your state, or where you will fish? Take the time to visit your nearest conservation people's office which can certainly guide you with the right resources to know.

fishhead · #4 04/03/07, 02:38 PM

If you type in the name of the fish on Google you can usually find some good pics to compare.

If you are in doubt you can always release it.

Clifford · #5 04/03/07, 04:07 PM

Keep the worms warm when ice fishing. A few between the cheek and gum should do just fine...

vicker · #6 04/03/07, 09:19 PM

It would help if we knew where (what area of the country) you are fishing. Most states have a pamplet or book that lists all the fishing rules in that state. They are usually available where you buy your license. The booklet also usually has pictures of the game fish available in your area (and maybe some protected fish). Check with you DNR (Division of Natural resources) or what ever it is called in your state.

ladyrua · #7 04/04/07, 06:27 AM

Thank you all - some great ideas on where to start!

And Clifford - ha-ha you meanie! Ain't no way those worms are going anywhere but my hook! *ew*

NWoods_Hippie · #8 04/04/07, 11:34 AM

Ladyrua,

There seems to be a lot of information on this website for the State of PA.

http://www.bigdamfish.net/fishlinks.html

Margie

electronrider · #9 04/04/07, 01:29 PM

Always always always carry a copy of the current year's fish guidelines in your tacklebox or on your person. Size restrictions can land you in a heap of trouble real quick, and ignorance is never an excuse when it comes to conservation officers.

ladyrua · #10 04/04/07, 01:47 PM

Gotcha! I figured on releasing everything till I got the identifying part down, and I firmly believe that ignorance is no excuse! I'd rather know what kind it is the moment I land it, rather than let the poor thing flop around while I'm thumbing through a book!

Dirtslinger · #11 04/04/07, 10:25 PM

Don't you get a magazine with your license with photos of the fish in your region?

ladyrua · #12 04/05/07, 07:44 AM

Yes, but it's not especially helpful given how little the pictures are! Thanks to all your suggestions though (NWoods Hippie - *very* helpful site!!), I ordered a book recommended by the PA Fish & Game folks on PA Fish yesterday!! I'm all excited to get it and start studying up!

Thanks again folks, I'll have to post a pic of my "first catch"!!