Underwater cameras are a relatively new tool in the fisherman's arsenal. The cameras can provide an immediate view of what is going on under the water and what fish are in the area. While they have been more commonly used by ice fishermen, they are gaining the attention of summer anglers. Laws vary as to the legality of using an underwater camera while fishing. Check local regulations before using.
Instructions
Using an Underwater Camera for Fishing
1. Scout for a good fishing location. Underwater cameras will show the fisherman what type of structure exists underwater and what fish inhabit them. Obviously fishing where the fish are improves the likelihood of catching fish. Knowing what structure exists will help determine the bait and presentation for the fishing effort.
This type of scouting can be done while not actively fishing. Use a handheld global positioning system to note the exact location of locations on the lake or river that holds promise for future fishing trips. This may be the only way to make use of an underwater camera in areas that prohibit the use of the cameras while fishing.
2. Watch the fish as they react to baits and lures. An underwater camera can tell the fisherman if he is not catching any fish because he is in fishless water or because the fish have decided to ignore his bait. The distance visible will vary with the clearness of the water. According to the website Outdoor.com, some particularly clear waters allow the camera to see fish and objects up to 40 feet away where particularly murky waters may only offer visibility of one or two feet.
3. Enjoy the underwater world. Outdoor.com suggests an underwater camera will help hold the attention of children during a fishing trip. Other uses include monitoring the lake bottom and occasionally finding some lost item.
An underwater camera can also help backup some of the proverbial fish stories about the one that got away. A video, shot from the underwater angle, of a fish battling the angler can make an additional trophy from a fishing trip. Make sure the fishing line doesn't get tangled in the camera cable.
Tags: underwater camera, catching fish, fishing trip, structure exists, underwater camera
