Some ladies might be lucky enough to have a family member or significant other who is willing to show them the ropes when it comes to fishing. Others might have to work a little harder to find helpful resources or people that can guide them along the way as they learn about the art of angling. If you’re a lady that wants to learn how to fish, but you don’t have a “pro-fishional” in your social network, be aware that there are both hands-on seminars and websites on the net that can educate you on a variety of fishing-related topics.
Hands-on Learning
1. Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW). This program is a non-profit, educational experience that is held over a period of three days and offers hands-on fishing workshops for women. While the BOW program is not solely focused on fishing (archery, shotgun, rifle shooting, kayaking, hiking, camping and photography classes are also available), basic fishing and fly fishing courses offered as part of the curriculum. BOW organizers encourage a supportive environment that is conducive to learning, making friends and having fun. No prior fishing experience is necessary and women of all ages are welcome. BOW programs are held each year in a number of states. For more information, you can call 1-877-BOWOMAN for more information or visit the international BOW website.
2. IGFA School of Sportfishing. For ladies who are at an intermediate skill level, who have an interest in offshore fishing techniques, and don’t mind making a trip to Florida, there is the IGFA (International Game Fish Association) School of Sportfishing. Classes are held on Tuesday evenings from 7 PM to 10 PM at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach, Florida. Each course features printed curriculum on the session, equipment, demonstrations, and hands-on instruction from professional sportfishing captains. Cost per class is $100 USD for IGFA members and $150 USD for non IGFA members. Call 954-924-4254 for details.
Online Resources
3. How to Fish Section at TakeMeFishing.org. Maybe you are the type of person who prefers to fish solo, learn at your own pace or just wants an online source of information that covers a variety of “how to” topics. In this case, be sure to bookmark the “How to Fish” section at TakeMeFishing.org. This section covers everything from how to cast all the way through how to land the fish once you have him (or her) on your line. If you tend to learn techniques quicker by viewing instructional videos, watch a few of the knot tying and gear assembly clips on the TakeMeFishing.org YouTube Channel.
4. “Women Who Fish” Section at SheFishes2.com. If you’re interested in reading articles about how other lady anglers got hooked on fishing or want to read the words of wisdom that they have to offer other women who are getting into the sport, visit the “Women Who Fish” section at SheFishes2.com. There are also tips on how to cook your catches on the “Fishing Kitchen” pages and gear reviews from a woman’s perspective in the “Reviews” section.
