Our Beginers Guide

Would you like to start fishing, but are daunted by the sheer range of products available at your local dealer or the technical terminology used? Then look no further; the fact is that once you have mastered the basics, the rest will follow naturally. However, it is important that you take heed of good advice. One of the best pieces of advice for the novice angler, whatever age they are, is to keep things simple from the start.

At Shelton's Fishing Tackle we offer the broad knowledge and experience that we have gained over the past 30 years in the trade. We pride ourselves on a friendly, approachable team that can guide you through the initial steps to setting up as an angler and will be here to help you for years to come.

So, where do you begin?

There are many 'starter kits' available on the market today at what may seem to be extremely competitive prices, but be aware as the kit may not necessarily be suitable for your individual needs. It is far better to have your initial set up put together with your personal requirements in mind and will probably work out more economical than having 'bits and pieces' you probably won't use any way!

Shelton's has become a well-respected force in the angling market; we are able to source products from all the leading manufacturers, enabling us to select and advise you on the very best products, while keeping in mind your budget and needs. We are more than just a web site; our business is backed up by many years of trading from our premises in Peterborough and from the 10th April, after a grand opening, we began trading from our newly refurbished and extended premises giving over 8,000 sq feet of angling heaven!

As I said earlier, keeping things simple and learning the basics are essential to promote enjoyment and proficiency. We all aspire to catch the huge fish you see in magazines or hear about, but in order to be successful in catching such fantastic specimens you need to learn how to play and land the fish in the correct manner and yes, there is an art to it!

Just as important to us is the welfare of the fish you catch, to ensure our lakes and rivers are places where the angler and nature can work hand-in-hand, so not only do you need the skill to ensure you land your prize catch we firmly believe you need to learn as much as possible about the sport to ensure the welfare of the fish is respected.

Sheltons key points to successful, safe, enjoyable angling are:

* Seek advice on the selection of tackle required
* Select your venue
* Take your time and learn the skills properly
* Get used to handling smaller fish first
* Set yourself achievable targets - perhaps a new species; size of fish; new location

Let's take a look at what we would suggest would be an ideal starter set of tackle, beginning with the all-important rod:

Rod

We would suggest a basic float fishing rod, 13' with a maximum line recommendation of between 4lb and 8lb, with a soft tip action. These are priced between £30.00 and £60.00.

Reel

A standard fixed spool reel, ideally with a spare spool for loading a different breaking strain of line on, when required. Prices are between £15.00 and £40.00.

Line

Usually 4lb breaking strain is adequate, but if you are fishing a venue with the potential for larger fish, then a 5lb - 6lb line would be advisable.

Floats

A selection of floats of differing weights and sizes are essential to enable you to fish different venues or conditions.

Shot

Again, a selection of shot is needed to weight your line correctly and can be obtained in a mixed dispenser for ease. This MUST be non-toxic.

Hooks

Various sizes of hooks are needed for the range of baits that may be used, ranging from size 6 down to a size 20. We advise that you buy barbless hooks, as many fisheries do not allow barbed ones. Hooks may be bought loose, or already tied to a piece of line known as 'hooks to nylon'.

Landing Net

This is an item that could easily be over-looked, but is, however, very important. You wouldn't want to miss the chance of landing your prized catch! £15.00 - £25.00.

Forceps and Disgorger

These items are ones that you must have to enable you to unhook your catch quickly and in the fairest way to the well-being of the fish.

As well as the basics above, there are many other items you may wish to add to your kit; maybe a box to keep your smaller items of tackle in; a rest to place your rod on; some sort of seat and a set of waterproofs. However, if you start with the basics we recommend you will soon be able to identify what else you would like to add.

Just remember, one item you cannot and must not fish without is the Rod Licence. These are issued by the Environment Agency and can be purchased from a Post Office or on-line. You will need to find out if the area you wish to fish requires a day or season ticket.

Whether you shop through our on-line store or visit us in person, we will do our best to offer the advice, information and tackle that you will need to go on to have many successful years of angling.

Tight Lines

Richard Hearth Shop Manager