Fishing season is right around the corner, and your hook isn’t the only thing that needs to be set.
From legal requirements to must-have tools, a few necessities can make all the difference between a terrible day and a rewarding catch. Tackle these essentials every fisherman needs before hitting the water, and this season, you’ll reel in success with my top five must-haves before you cast your rod.
For any fisher over the age of 16 in Ohio, your first step should be to visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website to purchase a fishing license. On their website, they have resident and non-resident fishing licenses available. Licenses are available to purchase from one day up to lifetime, depending on your resident's status. Whatever license you select, you must keep up with your license renewal. Once you’ve chosen a license, you must remember that for your fishing license to be considered valid, you must sign it. All fishers must remember to keep their license in their possession when fishing and be willing to show their license to anyone upon request, physically or digitally.
If you’re not quite sure about purchasing a license, you can also visit the Department of Natural Resources for Ohio residents' Free Fishing Days. If you do happen to fish without a license, it is important to note that you may receive a fine between $150-$200 from the game warden. Be sure to check out the list below from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to find Ohio’s 2025 fishing season license prices, so you reel in fish and not fines.
Resident Licenses
Resident 1-Day License....$14.00
Resident 1-Year License....$25.00
Resident 3-Year License....$72.11
Resident 5-Year License....$120.18
Resident 10-Year License....$240.36
Resident Lifetime License....$599.04
Nonresident Licenses
Nonresident 1-Day License....$14.00
Nonresident 3-Day License....$25.00
Nonresident 1-Year License....$50.96
A fishing pole isn’t just a necessity, it’s an important key for any great catch. Finding a fishing rod is like getting your first wand at Hogwarts; the fishing rod must choose the fisher! When you first walk into the store, finding the right rod can feel like an overwhelming experience.
Fishing rods come in different lengths, materials, and designs for specific fishing species and techniques. For anyone new to fishing, I would recommend a spinning rod. A spinning rod is perfect for someone trying to understand the basics. The specific pole you get will depend on your ideal fishing experience. You might want a shorter rod if you want more control and accuracy for up-close fishing. A longer rod may suit you if you’re looking to cast your rod further distances and plan to fish in open water.
Once you’ve figured out what length you want, you can focus on what material you would like your pole to be made of. Rods that are made of fiberglass are ideal for someone looking for good durability and flexibility when fishing. A graphite rod may be the right fit for someone who's looking for a rod with high sensitivity for detecting bites. Once you find the perfect rod, you'll be casting lines like a pro in no time!
A tackle box is another one of the most important items you can bring on your fishing trip. Your tackle box will serve as your toolbox for fishing. A good tackle box will keep all your tools organized, accessible, and harder to lose. This means you’ll spend less time fumbling for your accessories and more time fishing.
Your tackle box should be filled with extra fishing line, different hooks, sinkers, bobbers, and needle-nose pliers. If you're trying to catch specific types of fish, pack lures and baits tailored to the fish. It is also good for you to know that some fish are more likely to bite bright-colored lures, and others may prefer live bait like worms or minnows so be sure to pack a variety. You should also have a small first-aid kit and some tools just in case things get a little fishy.
With your license secured, your perfect rod in hand, and your tackle box fully stocked, you're more than ready to make the most of fishing season. Enjoy the fishing season