I am continually asked the question "How am I supposed to go fishing if I don't have a boat?" my response has always been "It's funny, I have a couple boats but my favorite fishing spot is actually just off of a fairly busy road".

My fishing partner spent years fishing a lake from a boat and it was definitely the preferred fishing choice.  However, one day we were in a tournament in Southern Ontario and had just got off the water.  As we were driving by what looked like a small outlet with two fishermen sitting on the shoreline we decided to stop.  Although we had spent eight hour out on the water and caught nothing we ended up catching a couple fish each in less than a half hour, unfortunately not for the tournament.  

We went back the following day after our tournament and again caught fish for a couple hours just for fun.

The following year we decided to drive over to that fishing hole and see what the morning bite would be like. Well it was opening day of the season and I actually had my fishing partner video tape my morning fish. I caught pike, bass and trout all in that spot. I had one of my most incredible fishing days to date. I was able to catch it on video and had the bragging rights for the season.

It does not take any more knowledge to be able to fish from shore then it does by boat. Don't let anyone tell you differently.   

I have also been asked about the equipment needed for shore fishing versus being in the boat.  

You really have no different requirements and you can find portable fish finder etc. to take with you to the shoreline if you wanted to. 

However, I remember a friend of mine that gave me some good advice a long time ago. She said "Remember where fish go and eat. They head to the shallows to find their food. At some point in the day those fish are going to be coming into the shorelines. Also take into consideration that you are casting out and retrieving your lure back to the shorelines which will make the other fish thinks its baitfish going back to their safety”. 

Ask yourself the question, "How many times have you seen the guys in the boat casting towards the shoreline"? Think about it! That's because fish are going to be found in those areas. You are just fishing for them from a different direction and the fish don't really care. My biggest pike was caught when I was standing on the road casting into the lake at the cottage. My biggest trout and bass were also caught within a short distance off the roadway. As far as these places having to be quiet, another debunk.... my favorite fishing hole is about 50 feet from a major road that is fairly busy and far from quiet, but now the fish are worth it so I will forgo the silence.  

Remember there are so many different places that we can go fishing. Shorelines of lakes, rivers and creeks are what nature offers to us. However you will also find stocked ponds and actuaries that offer a great day out fishing for you and your family. Fishing requires patients, whether your fishing from a boat or shore it can be frustrating at times when the fish aren't biting. But remember it's not always about catching the fish. It's about the experiences that you are going to have and the memories you are going to make.

Helpful Tip - One of my favorite places to visit is my local Tackle Store. They are a huge wealth of information. They hear what's happening on local lakes and can guide you to those areas for free. Remember they are your BEST Source and can make some of your trips to the waterways far more successful. Remember to also use this source in every area that you plan on fishing.  Each store will know what colors or tackle are working and know the regulations of the area. Another thing to take into consideration:  If you are fishing with children taking them onto a boat is a very difficult place for them to fish.  Watching where they cast or what they are catching or who sometimes makes it not as enjoyable. 

When kids become bored then need to be able to get up and move away from fishing for short times, shoreline fishing can offer them more activity and control of how they fish and space to fish in.