From top local fishing spots to the best bait and gear, here’s everything you need to know to start fishing this spring—whether you’re new to the sport or picking it up again.

Fishing is a sport to get away from distractions in your life and also is a great hobby for those that are looking for one. I personally started fishing when I was at the age of 5 and even until this day I love fishing. Fishing is a relaxing and non physical activity and any one can start fishing at any age and at any time. 

1. The Importance of Fishing
   Fishing, the sport that every fish enthusiast likes, has been around for hundreds of years. It taught people how to survive and thrive when in need of food and how to be independent. The sport of fishing has turned into a worldwide activity and is a great way to interact with nature and engage in a very interesting hobby. Some of the best fishing spots can be found just about anywhere — in your town, man-made ponds, local lakes, or even from your dock with a view when you wake up in the morning. 
2. Top Fishing Spots in Wisconsin

• Elm Grove Pond: Elm Grove is a beautiful pond located in the village of Elm Grove, close to a park and pool. It provides a fishing-friendly environment for beginners and has many types of fish species, including bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and the rare Northern Pike. Elm Grove Pond guarantees an exciting experience for anyone’s first time fishing. To maximize your fishing experience consider these spots:

• The docks/boat when you first arrive.
• The sewer pipe, as fish are often close to it and may bite your bait.
• Under the bridge on top of the rocks, which can yield exciting catches.

• Hidden Lake Quarry: Located right down the street from Wauwatosa West High School, this hidden gem is home to hundreds of critters and great aquatic life. With thousands of fish from bluegill to Northern Pike, it’s a great spot to fish, walk around, and meet new people.

4. Fishing Bait: Minnows
   Minnows are a great bait for those trying to catch bigger fish like largemouth bass and pike. They are easy to purchase, but in Wauwatosa, they are only available in Pewaukee specifically at Pewaukee Lake on the shore. Be sure to bring a bucket and a bubbler to keep them alive. Minnows are a great option for both less and more experienced anglers.
5. Fishing Bait: Lures
   There are hundreds of types of lures, each designed to attract various fish species. They can provide an exciting and dynamic experience while fishing. 

• • #1 of the best types of lures are plastic worm lures or soft rubber worm lures. They trick the fish into thinking they are a real worm and also are usually in vibrant colors to catch the eye of a fish. 
  • #2 live bait, live bait like worms or even minnows are a great way to catch fish in any type of water and in any type of condition. 

• BlueGill Lures: BlueGill Lures are great for Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike and for any other fish that is a bigger type you are willing to catch. 

Where to buy:

• Walmart: Walmart is a great store to find lures, fishing rods and other stuff you would need for fishing. 

• Bass Pro Shops: Bass pro Shops is a store dedicated to selling Fishing products to its customers. You can find all of the things listed above and even more if you are even more interested in trying new baits or accessories. 

What works the best at lakes: 

• Lures specifically lures that look like a fish
• Vibrant colored lures so that they catch the fish’s attention, making fish easier to catch
• Minnows are a great option when fishing in a lake because they are prey for the larger fish 

6. Where and How to Obtain a Fishing Rod

• Borrow from Friends or Relatives: One option is to find a friend or a relative who has a fishing rod and is willing to let you borrow it. This is a great way to get started without needing to purchase your own equipment.
• Ask a Neighbor: You can also check with a neighbor to see if they have a fishing rod you can borrow. It’s a friendly way to connect with your community while gearing up for fishing.

Buy one yourself: when buying a fishing rod make sure that the fishing rod meets your requirements: is it too stiff, too bendy, weak, strong? All of these requirements you want to have depending on where you are fishing and what you are going to fish for (species).