Is It “Fishing” if I’m Not Using a Hook?

December 28 2017

Question: Is it legal to practice my fishing techniques using an artificial lure or fly without a hook? It is not really fishing as I would not be trying to actually catch fish. If I’m not fishing then do I need a fishing license? (Allen H.)

Answer: Yes, it is legal and no, you don’t need a license. Without a hook attached to your artificial lure or fly, you have no method of take, and so a fishing license is not required. This practice is more common than you think. Flyfishing instructors frequently have their students practice this way before trying the real thing. Practicing flycasting without a fly or a hook makes it easier to untangle the flyfishing line from the tree branch you’ll inevitably snag while you are learning, and makes it safer for those standing around you.

Huh! Interesting.... expected a different answer. Feel the tug for free Imagine the stories you could concoct about the one you had on the line "It was THIS BIG" Hahahahahaha

I wonder if there is any chance of catching a fish if a fish completely swallow the lure to its stomach.