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Being in Shape for Fishing (Why It Matters)

We all know that fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But did you know that being in shape can help you catch more fish?

That’s right, being physically fit gives you an edge for angling success. Think about it – if you are physically fit, you will have more stamina and strength to fight a big fish.

fishing health
Source: Canva Pro

You will also be able to move around more easily, which can be a big advantage when trying to cast your line in just the right spot.

But it’s not just about catching more fish. Being in shape can also make fishing more enjoyable.

If you are fit, you will be able to hike to those remote fishing spots that are always worth the extra effort. You will also have more energy to enjoy the time you spend outdoors.

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Benefits of Being in Shape for Fishing

Fishing isn’t a physically demanding sport, but being in shape will make it more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.

Here are some of the benefits of being physically fit:

Increased Stamina

When you are fishing, you will often be standing for long periods. You might catch a big fish that will need to be reeled in slowly. If you are physically fit, you will have the stamina to stand for long periods and fight a big fish.

Better Balance

Being in shape can help you maintain your balance, especially when standing on slippery or uneven surfaces. It will also prevent you from falling when climbing in and out of your boat.

More Strength

When you are outdoors, you will want to enjoy it. Being physically fit will give you the energy to do just that. You will also be able to fight a big fish when it is struggling to get away.

This can make a big difference in whether or not you successfully land the fish.

Easier Movement

If you are physically fit, you will be able to move around easily and cast your line in just the right spot. This is especially true if you are casting your line from a riverbank or other difficult terrain.

Less Likely to Get Injured

“Another element in weight fishing is a lot of the time you’re walking around with a bunch of heavy sinks in your backpack because you want to prepare for the worst-case scenario, which is snagging like a few times,” this is what Gary and Kaspar Kazazian, authors of California Surf Fishing: The Hunt for Big Fish, said.

If you are carrying a heavy fishing tackle box or wading through fast-moving water, being in shape will help reduce your risk of injury. It will be hard to enjoy your time outdoors if you are injured and have to stop fishing.

Be Able to Fight Big Fish

If you hook a big one, you will need all the strength you can muster to reel it. A big fish can put up quite a fight, and if you are not in shape, it will be much harder to win the battle. You might even lose the fish if you are not physically fit.

You Will Be Able to Hike to Remote Spots

If you love to fish in remote and difficult-to-reach spots, being physically fit will help you get there. As Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said, “But sometimes you want to get to this spot where you are closer to the fish as possible.”

You will be able to hike for long periods without getting tired, which means you can reach those fishing spots that are always worth the extra effort.

Whether you are just getting started fishing or have been angling for years, being in shape will make it more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.

How to Get in Shape for Fishing

When it comes to getting in shape for fishing, you can do a few things to make sure you are physically ready for a day on the water.

Here are some tips on how to get in shape for fishing:

Start Walking

One of the best ways to get in shape is to start walking. Walking is a low-impact activity that is easy on your joints, and it is also a great way to get your heart rate up.

You can start by walking for 10 minutes a day and then gradually increase the amount of time you walk each day. If you can, try to walk for 30 minutes a day. You can also try walking uphill to increase the intensity of your workout.

Join A Gym

Another great way to get in shape for fishing is to join a gym. At the gym, you will have access to various machines and equipment that can help you get in shape.

You can start by doing light cardio on the elliptical machine or the treadmill. Also, try lifting some weights to build muscle and increase your strength. “I lift weights here and there,” Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.

Do Some Yoga

Yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility and balance. These are both important for fishing, as you will need to be able to reach for your tackle box and cast your line without losing your balance.

There are many different types of yoga, so try a few different classes to find one that you like.

Get Outside and Go Fishing

One of the best ways to get in shape for fishing is to go fishing. Getting outside and spending time in nature is a great way to improve your overall health, and it will also help you get used to being on your feet for long periods.

“I’m reeling out in the water, getting hit by the waves, walking back, bringing in the fish, and the sinkers quick; that has a lot of a muscular workout on me. And I feel like you develop it over time; those muscles and muscle memory develop. And a year later, you’re able to reel in quicker. You’re able to cast further, hold that rod better when you’re fighting a big fish, and you do not get exhausted,” Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.

If you can, try to go fishing at least once a week. This will help you get in shape and allow you to practice your casting. As Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said, “For me, instead of weightlifting, I will go fishing.”

How to Enjoy Fishing More by Being in Shape

Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, if you are not in shape, it can be difficult to enjoy your time on the water.

Here are some tips on how to enjoy fishing more by being in shape:

Take Your Time

One of the best things about being in shape is having more energy. This means you can take your time when you are fishing and enjoy the experience more. 

You can take your time walking to your spot, and you can also take your time setting up your equipment. When you are not rushed, you can relax and enjoy the process of fishing.

Catch More Fish

You will also be able to catch more fish if you are in shape. This is because you will be able to cast your line further and with more accuracy. You will also have the stamina to stay on the water for longer periods, which means you can fish in more difficult spots and increase your chances of success.

Have More Fun

Being in shape will also help you have more fun when fishing. You will be able to walk farther, hike to more remote spots, and spend more time on the water.

These things will help you enjoy your fishing time and create lasting memories.

Why Being in Shape Matters

Being in shape is essential for many reasons. It can help you catch more fish, have more fun, and stay safe on the water.

If you are not in shape, you may get fatigued quickly, leading to accidents. It is also important to be in shape to enjoy your time fishing more.

If you are constantly struggling to keep up with your friends or family when fishing, you will not be able to relax and enjoy the experience.

So, if you want to improve your fishing trips, make sure you are in shape before heading out on the water. It will make a world of difference.

Final Thoughts

So, if you are looking to improve your fishing success and enjoy the sport, being in shape is a great place to start. It might not be the most important factor in catching fish, but it can give you an edge.

Get out there and start working on your fitness. It will help you in more ways than you can imagine. And, who knows, you might even have a little fun in the process.

Diana Nadim
Fishing Expert
Diana began fishing at the age of seven, as it has been a long-time family tradition. From catching small bullheads to catching strippers on the backwaters of Bighorn, she loves to get out in the wild and have a marvelous day on the water. Her dad was an expert angler, and he taught her fishing along with her two siblings. They used to go to the Bighorn River in Montana and Henry’s fork, Idaho. As a pragmatic person, she is obsessed with creating well-researched and practical guides and reviews of the best fishing methods and gear.
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