While some principles remain the same, saltwater angling has its own unique charm, and a few key differences you’ll want to be aware of. Don’t be intimidated by the vastness of the ocean – we’ll get you started on the right fin!

Baiting Up for the Brine: Easy Saltwater Choices

Just like in freshwater, simple and effective baits are your best friends when starting out in saltwater.

• Shrimp (Fresh or Frozen): The universal candy of the sea! Almost everything that swims in saltwater will eat shrimp. You can buy them fresh from bait shops or frozen from tackle stores and even some grocery stores. Cut them into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your target fish.
• Squid (Frozen): Another fantastic, widely available, and surprisingly durable bait. Squid strips stay on the hook well, making them great for casting and letting your bait sit. Cut them into long, thin strips.
• Clams/Mussels (Fresh or Frozen): If you can get your hands on them, these can be incredibly effective, especially for bottom feeders. They’re a bit messier to handle, but fish absolutely love the scent.
• Cut Bait (Small Fish): If allowed and available, small pieces of fresh baitfish (like mullet, pilchards, or mackerel) can be irresistible to larger predatory fish. Check with your local bait shop for what’s good in your area.

Pro Tip: Saltwater fish rely heavily on scent. Use fresh bait whenever possible, and don’t be afraid to change your bait every 15-20 minutes if you’re not getting bites.

Tackle for the Tide: What You’ll Need

Saltwater is harsher on gear, so your freshwater setup might not cut it. You’ll need tackle designed to handle the salt and the potentially larger, stronger fish.

• Saltwater Rod and Reel Combo: This is crucial. Look for a spinning rod and reel combo specifically rated for saltwater use. They’ll be made with corrosion-resistant materials. A medium to medium-heavy action rod, around 7-9 feet, is a versatile choice for casting from shore or a pier. Ensure the reel is spooled with braided line (20-30 lb test) or monofilament (15-25 lb test).
• Terminal Tackle (The Bits at the End of Your Line):
  • Hooks: Start with a variety of strong, corrosion-resistant hooks. Circle hooks (sizes 1/0 to 4/0) are excellent for saltwater, as they often hook fish in the corner of the mouth, making for easier release and less harm to the fish. J-hooks (sizes #2 to 2/0) are also good.
  • Sinkers/Weights: You’ll need heavier sinkers in saltwater to combat currents and waves. Pyramid sinkers (1-4 oz) are great for holding bottom, and egg sinkers (1-2 oz) can be used on a Carolina rig (see below).
  • Swivels: Barrel or snap swivels (size 7 to 10) prevent line twist, especially when casting or if your bait spins in the current.
  • Leaders: A short piece of heavier monofilament or fluorocarbon line (20-40 lb test) tied between your main line and your hook/sinker. This protects your main line from abrasive structures and sharp fish teeth.
• Pliers/Forceps: Even more essential in saltwater for hook removal and cutting heavier line. Look for stainless steel or corrosion-resistant options.
• Fillet Knife & Cutting Board (Optional): If you plan on keeping your catch.
• Cooler with Ice: Crucial for keeping your bait fresh and your catch chilled.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable. The sun’s glare off the water can be intense.

Basic Saltwater Rig: For beginners, a simple bottom rig or a Carolina rig is a great starting point.

• Bottom Rig: Tie a swivel to your main line. On one end of a leader, tie your hook. On the other end, tie the leader to the swivel. Above the swivel on your main line, add a sinker.
• Carolina Rig: Thread an egg sinker onto your main line, then tie on a swivel. On the other side of the swivel, tie a leader (18-36 inches) and then your hook. This allows the fish to pick up the bait without feeling the weight of the sinker.

Prime Spots for Your First Saltwater Cast

Access and safety are key for your initial saltwater adventures.

• Public Piers and Jetties: These are fantastic starting points. They offer easy access, often have bait shops nearby, and you can learn by observing other anglers. Fish congregate around structure, so piers and jetties are natural fish magnets.
• Docks and Bridges (with public access): Similar to piers, these structures provide shelter and feeding grounds for many saltwater species. Always ensure you have legal access.
• Calm Beaches or Coves: Look for areas with minimal waves and current. These can be great for casting out for smaller surf species. Early morning or late evening often yield good results.
• Designated Saltwater Fishing Parks: Many coastal areas have parks specifically designed for shore fishing, often with amenities and good fishing opportunities.

Crucial Saltwater Considerations:

• Tides: Unlike freshwater, saltwater fishing is heavily influenced by tides. Fish often feed most actively during incoming or outgoing tides when baitfish are moving. Check a local tide chart before you go.
• Know Your Target: Research what fish are common in your chosen area and what baits and techniques they prefer. This will greatly increase your success.
• Respect the Environment: The ocean is a delicate ecosystem. Pack out all your trash, including discarded fishing line. Practice proper catch and release if you’re not keeping fish.
• Saltwater Corrosion: Always rinse your rod, reel, and tackle thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater outing. This will prevent corrosion and extend the life of your gear.

Saltwater fishing is a journey of discovery, offering endless opportunities for excitement and beautiful encounters with marine life. Start simple, be patient, and embrace the wildness of the coast. You’re about to experience fishing on a whole new level!

Tight lines, and may your cooler be heavy!

So, you’re ready to cast your line and experience the peace and excitement of fishing? Welcome to the club! It’s a fantastic hobby that connects you with nature, offers a thrill, and can even put dinner on the table. But if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the gear and jargon, don’t worry – every seasoned angler started right where you are.

This guide will give you the essential tips to get started, from easy bait ideas to finding your first fishing spot. Let’s dive in!

Bait Basics: Keep it Simple and Effective

Forget fancy lures for now. As a beginner, you want bait that’s easy to use, readily available, and fish find irresistible.

• Worms (Nightcrawlers, Red Wigglers): The undisputed champions of beginner bait! Virtually every freshwater fish loves worms. They’re easy to hook, stay on well, and you can buy them at most bait shops, sporting goods stores, and even some convenience stores.
• Corn: Believe it or not, canned whole kernel corn is a secret weapon for catching panfish (like sunfish and bluegill) and even some carp. It’s cheap, easy to use, and many fish are surprisingly drawn to it. Just thread a few kernels onto your hook.
• Hot Dogs: Yes, seriously! Cut into small, dime-sized pieces, hot dogs can be surprisingly effective for catfish and other bottom feeders.
• Bread: A simple piece of white bread, balled up and pressed onto your hook, can attract panfish and carp.

Pro Tip: No matter what bait you choose, use just enough to cover the hook. A smaller, well-presented bait is often more appealing than a giant blob.

Tackle Talk: What You Actually Need

You don’t need a boatload of expensive gear to start. Here’s a minimalist approach to your first tackle box:

• Rod and Reel Combo: Many sporting goods stores offer beginner combos that include a spinning rod and reel, pre-spooled with line. This is your best bet for ease of use and affordability. Look for a light to medium action rod, around 6-7 feet long.
• Hooks: Start with a variety pack of basic J-hooks in sizes #6, #8, and #10. These are good all-around sizes for panfish and smaller bass.
• Bobbers (Floats): These handy little indicators tell you when a fish is biting. Get some clip-on or slip bobbers.
• Sinkers (Weights): Split-shot sinkers are perfect for beginners. They’re small, easy to pinch onto your line, and help your bait sink to the desired depth.
• Pliers/Forceps: Essential for removing hooks from fish (and sometimes from yourself!).
• Line Clippers/Small Scissors: For neatly trimming your fishing line.
• Small Tackle Box: To keep all your essentials organized.

What to skip for now: Expensive lures, specialized lines, fancy electronics. You can add these as you gain experience and discover what kind of fishing you enjoy most.

Best Places to Start Your Fishing Adventure

As a beginner, you want calm, accessible water with a good chance of catching fish.

• Local Ponds and Lakes: These are often stocked with various species and offer easy bank access. Look for public parks with fishing piers or designated fishing areas.
• Community Fishing Programs: Many state wildlife agencies and local parks departments offer “community fishing” or “urban fishing” programs. These often involve stocked ponds and can even provide loaner gear and instruction.
• Slow-Moving Rivers or Creeks: Look for stretches with easy bank access and slower currents. Avoid fast-moving water as it can be challenging for beginners.
• Fishing Piers: If you’re near the coast or a large lake, public fishing piers are fantastic. They offer good access, and you’ll often find other anglers who can offer tips.

Before you go:

• Check Local Regulations: Always, always, always check your local fishing regulations. You’ll likely need a fishing license, and there will be rules about what you can catch, how many, and minimum sizes. A quick search online for your state’s fish and wildlife agency will provide this information.
• Safety First: Tell someone where you’re going. Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re fishing near water, consider wearing a life vest, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, and dispose of fishing line properly. Let’s keep our waterways clean for everyone.

Fishing is about patience, observation, and enjoying the process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch a fish on your first outing. Every cast is a learning experience. With these tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident and happy angler.

Now, grab your rod, find a peaceful spot, and enjoy the adventure! Happy fishing!

So, you wanna catch a fish? That’s cool! Fishing is like the chill cousin of hunting, except you don’t have to wear camo. It’s basically meditation with a chance of dinner.

Step 1: Gear Up (Or Down) You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff to start. A simple rod and reel combo, some line, a hook,and a worm will do the trick. If you want to go all out, there’s always the option of a kayak, a GPS fish finder, and a custom-made lure collection. But let’s be real, you’re probably not catching a marlin anytime soon.

Step 2: Find Your Happy Place Lakes, rivers, ponds – they all have fish. The key is finding a spot where they’re actually willing to talk to you. Look for places with cover like rocks, logs, or weeds. Fish are lazy creatures, so they like to hang out where they can ambush unsuspecting prey (like your worm).

Step 3: Cast and Pray (Okay, Just Cast) This is where the magic happens. You toss that line out there like a pro and wait. And wait. And wait. It’s a lot like playing hide and seek, but with less running and more boredom. Don’t worry if you don’t catch anything right away. Fish are picky eaters, and they’re probably just playing hard to get.

Step 4: The Big One (Or Not) If you’re lucky enough to feel a tug on your line, get ready for the battle of your life. Or maybe just a small fish. Either way, it’s exciting! Once you’ve reeled in your catch, admire its beauty (or lack thereof) and then gently release it back into the water. Or, if you’re feeling hungry, you can always keep it for dinner. Just make sure you know what kind of fish you’re catching first and pay attention to all the local fishing regulations.

Bonus Tip: Bring a Friend Fishing can be lonely. Bring a buddy along for laughs, stories, and maybe even a little friendly competition. Just don’t blame them if you still don’t catch anything.

Remember, fishing is all about having fun and enjoying the outdoors. Don’t get too caught up in catching the biggest fish or using the fanciest gear. Just relax, enjoy the peace and quiet, and hopefully, you’ll come home with a fish story (even if there’s no fish).

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and hit the water!

Let’s face it, folks. Fishing in 2024 ain’t your grandpappy’s quiet afternoon by the lake (unless your grandpappy is a cyborg with a laser lure, in which case, respect). This year, fish are hipper, the competition’s fiercer (looking at you, aggressive otters with tiny fishing hats), and your success depends on these top-secret tips, guaranteed to make you a legend… or at least get you a decent Instagram story.

1. Lure Upgrades: From Worms to Woofer Wobblers

Worms? Yawn. Forget those wiggly disappointments. This year, it’s all about niche lures. Think tiny yoga mats for carp (they’re super into downward dog these days), miniature shopping carts for catfish (gotta feed that retail therapy habit), and maybe even a fidget spinner for trout (those guys are wired).

2. Location, Location, Location (and Maybe Wi-Fi?)

Sure, “calm coves” and “rocky outcrops” are good advice, but have you considered the hottest fishing apps of 2024? Download “FishFace” (it’s like Tinder for fish, but way less creepy) and “FishChat” (turns out, catfish can be surprisingly chatty). Who needs a map when you can get insider tips from Bubbles the Bass himself?

3. Respect the Grind (and Maybe Invest in a Fanny Pack)

Fishing ain’t all sunshine and selfies. It’s about the grind, baby! Be prepared to sit for hours, develop a killer tan, and potentially get mistaken for a mannequin by a confused pelican. Fanny packs are back in style, folks, and for good reason. Snacks, sunscreen, emergency toilet paper for the pelican incident… you never know what the day will bring.

4. Embrace the Unexpected (Like Your Uncle Phil with a Fishing Rod)

Let’s be honest, sometimes the best fishing stories involve zero fish and a whole lot of shenanigans. Be prepared for:

• Uncle Phil showing up unannounced, determined to relive his glory days. (Pro-tip: Offer him a beer and a lawn chair. He’ll be out of your hair in no time.)
• A flock of rogue pigeons mistaking your bobber for a fancy new landing pad. (Hey, free entertainment!)
• Discovering a hidden talent for interpretive fish dance. (Who needs a catch when you can mesmerize the local wildlife with your moves?)

5. Remember, It’s Not About the Catch (But a Decent Selfie Helps)

Fishing is about the journey, the fresh air, the questionable life choices that lead you to a lake at sunrise with a bucket of worms and a questionable fashion sense. But hey, if you do snag a whopper, don’t forget to document it with a fire selfie. Just make sure Uncle Phil isn’t photobombing with his bifocals.

So there you have it, folks! With these 2024 fishing hacks, you’ll be reeling in the laughs (and maybe even some fish) in no time. Now get out there, cast your line, and remember: even a bad day fishing is better than a good day stuck in traffic (unless you’re stuck next to a car full of angry otters with tiny fishing hats. In that case, maybe stay home.)

Happy fishing, and tight lines!

I am looking forward to wonderful 2015 fishing season this year.  I plan to add many more articles over the next coming months, that I hope are informative, educational and possibly humerus as well.  I also plan to post many more videos this year with some new technology that I have acquired.  If there are any articles or topics that you would like to read about please feel free to email me at adam@fishingforbeginners.net.

So far the topics that I have lined up this year to write about are as follows.

• Best fishing locations for the 2015 fishing season
• Expansion of fly fishing techniques
• Expansion of striped bass fishing techniques
• Expansion of shark fishing techniques
• Expansion of cooking recipes

Keep your comments coming in.  I love to hear your feedback.  Looking forward to the spring and posting many trophy fish photos soon!

Determine Target Species

The first and probably most important factor to consider before you decide what strength of fishing line to put on your reel is the species of fish you are fishing for.  In general if you are fishing for a freshwater species of fish the strength of your fishing line can be much lighter than if you were fishing for a saltwater species.  The reason for this is simply because freshwater species generally are smaller than saltwater species.  Once you decide on the exact species or group of species you plan to target you can then make a decision as to your line strength.  Below is a ballpark of what Lb. test fishing line I generally use based on species.

Freshwater

• Bluegill : 2-4 lb. test fishing line
• Perch : 4-8 lb. test fishing line
• Crappie: 4-8 lb. test fishing line
• Bass : 5-12 lb. test fishing line
• Trout: 5-10 lb. test fishing line
• Pike: 10-20 lb. test fishing line
• Walley : 10-20 lb. test fishing line
• Catfish : 8-15 lb. test fishing line

Saltwater

• Scup : 4-8 lb. test fishing line
• Flounder : 8-15 lb. test fishing line
• Tautog : 10-20 lb. test fishing line
• Bluefish : 15-25 lb. test fishing line
• Striper : 15-30 lb. test fishing line
• Tuna: 20-40 lb. test fishing line

Where Do You Plan on Fishing

Now that you have a baseline of what strength fishing line you should use the next factor to consider is the exact location you plan on fishing.  Will you be fishing from shore or by boat?  Will you be fishing in a fast moving river or stagnant pond?  These questions will help to further refine your selection of fishing line.  For instance if you are fishing from shore and plan on casting frequently, you may want to consider a lighter fishing line such that your casts reach further.  If you plan on fishing in a boat sending your bait directly to the bottom with a fishing weight then you may want to consider using a heavier line in case you get snagged on the bottom.  A heavier line may be the more appropriate choice if you plan on fishing in a fast moving river with strong currents.  If you hook into a decent size fish within a fast moving stream the weight of the fish may seem magnified placing much more stress on your fishing line and rod.

Determine Your Objectives

If you are planning on catching and releasing your fish for the day a lighter line may be the better choice for you as you will likely get more action considering that the lighter line has less of a chance scaring the fish away.  Always try to use the lightest line possible without running the risk of breaking the line as you will see an increase in hits throughout the day.  However if you plan on bringing your catches to the dinner table and do not want to run the risk of snapping your line then use a heavier line.

Rod and Reel Strength

A majority of rod and reels inform you of the recommended line strength on it.  It is either printed on the reel itself or on the handle of the rod.  But as long as you do not place 25lb test on a small freshwater shimano reel you should be fine with any choice.   To avoid much aggravation at the lake or pond I would recommend using a heavier line strength at first as the lighter lines are known to tangle more frequently.

Another helpful tip is to spray down your fishing reel and line after every trip to ensure that it does not begin to breakdown and lose its strength.  This is expecially important if you plan on saltwater fishing frequently.

Never Litter

One of the golden rules to fishing is to never litter.  Why would anyone want to harm an industry that provides a benefit to you, others and the environment?  When a person litters it limits the chances of the next generation of fish to grow and prosper.  It also limits the chance for you and others to catch more fish in the future.  Unfortunately all too often the litter found near ponds and lakes are caused by our fellow fishermen.  Hook cases, old lures, fishing line and other fishing articles are common along the shores of ponds and lakes. 

Be Quiet

There is nothing I dislike more than a loud fisherman.  Not only does it disrupt my relaxing day, but it also limits my chances to go home with a big fish.  I always tell my buddies to use their “fishing voice” while on a quiet lake.  Sound travels very well underwater and the fish will never come near a boat that is making all sorts of noise.  I always try and make a conscious effort to limit the noise level while I fish.  I will place a rug at the bottom of my boat to try and keep the noise down if I accidentally drop a pair of pliers or other heavy object.

Catch and Release

To ensure the success of the overall health of any pond or lake that you are fishing you should always practice good catch and release habits.  Always wet your hands before handling a fish as it helps to preserve their protective slime covering.  Also ensure that you do not have any chemicals on your hands before touching a fish.

Use barbless hooks whenever possible.  This helps to limit the time the fish you catch stay out of the water.  It also is less destructive to their sensitive mouths.  If you perform damage to a fishe’s mouth it may have a hard time eating and digesting properly.  Fish generally reproduce rather rapidly, but anything you can do to ensure the survival of one fish may help to produce hundreds of offspring for the next season.   

Pollution

Be careful about what chemicals you bring near a pond and lake.  Be especially careful if you have a gas motor as to never spill any gas or oil into the water.  If you trail your boat, do your best to ensure that the trailer tires, bearing and steal do not have any chemicals, oils or other pollutants on them before they enter the water.  While backing your trailer into the water do not let any oil from your car enter the water.  I sometimes see a car back its rear tiers and rims into the water while taking a boat out of the water.  This places a great deal of pollutants in the water.

Fishing Line

Don’t throw fishing line overboard.  It is very detrimental to the ecosystem as well as frustrating for fellow fishermen.  Fish and birds can also can get tangled in it. Also anyone using an outboard motor knows that fishing line can ruin the seal around a boat prop.  Always bring a trash bag with you to throw away any excess fishing line or other garbage. 

Don’t be Wasteful

Young anglers will often kill many more fish than what they actually intend to.  They do not or have not been trained with proper fish handling techniques.  Always be conscious as to properly handle a fish and try to only kill the fish that you intend to eat for yourself.  Some anglers will catch Bluegill or other small fish in large numbers just to be killed later on for no purpose at all.  Please try to refrain from doing this as the smaller species of fish are often a keystone species that all the other larger predator fish feed on.

Advantages to Fishing from Shore

Fishing from shore offers a few advantages that a young angler may not realize.  When you fish from shore if you are stealthy enough you will actually spook less fish than if you were fishing from a boat.  The shadow or noise created from the boat at times scares many of the larger game fish away, especially if you are Bluegill fishing or Bass fishing in shallower waters.  If you drop a heavy object in an aluminum boat you are sure to scare away every fish within a mile radius.  There is nothing I hate more than to be fishing next to a noisy fisherman.  If you do plan to fish from a boat a helpful tip is to put an old rug on the floor of the boat to eliminate the noise being generated from the metal or fiberglass bottom. 

The other huge advantage to fishing from shore is time.  When you fish from shore you just have more time to fish then if you are fishing from a boat.  Boat fishing requires a lot of extra work and time.  You have to ensure the boat is in good working condition.  You have to buy gas for the boat.  The trailer needs to be in good working condition.  You have to register the boat and motor, ss well as numerous other items that you need to address before the boat actually goes into the water.  When you fish from shore you do not have to worry about any of these things and can just grab your rod and tackle and head for the door. 

Here is another scenario that has actually happened to me once before. Suppose you are Striper fishing a few hundred feet from shore when you hook into a 20lb Striped Bass.  You fight the fish for 20 minutes when you realize that you forgot your fishing net.  Now what do you do?  You get the fish right up to the side of the boat and decide that it is too heavy to hoist in by the line itself.  You attempt to grab it by its mouth as they have no teeth, but as you do that it takes a dart back to the bottom and snaps your fishing line.  You are upset at yourself for not remembering to bring your net as you would have landed the lunker, but if you were fishing from shore it would have also been landed just as easy with no net required.  Simply stated landing fish from shore is somewhat easier than by boat.

Advantages of Fishing From a Boat

Now that I have made every boat owner question their investment, let me take a step back and talk about the advantages of fishing from a boat.

The biggest advantage of fishing from a boat is the range that you can cover in a day.  If you had to pick up all your tackle every 10 minutes to try a new spot it would get tiring after a while.  While when you are in a boat all  of your tackle stays with you by default.  If you have a long distance cast you can still maintain your distance from where you think the larger fish are located eliminating the chance of spooking the fish.  Trying multiple locations over the course of a day is a very important tip that many anglers refuse to utilize.

Also once the boat is in the water, the physical work is greatly reduced.  You no longer have to carry your tackle and you can just sit, relax and motor around to where you want to go.  It is not until I get the boat in the water and start sailing around do I feel as if all the overhead of owning a boat starts to pay off.

If you want to invest a little more you can also buy yourself a decent fish finder, which is proven to increase your chances of landing more fish.  Finding the schools of fish or the large lunker bass sitting on the bottom can be a critical piece of intelligence that can help you to land more fish.

So What is Better?

I honestly cannot answer this question because it all depends on the angler’s preference.  It depends upon how much time you want to invest in maintaining a boat and whether you think it will be an asset or a liability to you.  All to often I see these big boats sitting in dry dock all year round because someone did not realize the total time investment it would take to actually own a boat.  Personally I have found that the small to average size fishing boats suite me the best as they can get me to where I want to be, less to maintain, easy to trail and still offer many of the same perks as what the larger fishing boats offer.

Types of Fishing Bait

Depending what fish you are currently trying to catch will determine the bait you should use.  If you plan on Bluegill Fishing then you may want to consider using worms or night crawlers.  If you are seeking out a larger predator like Bass or Pike, then you should consider using a shiner or sucker.  Catfish Fishing requires using either a dead fish, or a chunk of a fish which is rigged a bit differently than if you were to be fishing for Bass or Trout.  So your first step is to decide what fish your plan on fishing for. 

Adding Worms to a Fishing Hook

Worms can be applied to a hook using a few different methods.  The first method is simply to thread the worm onto the hook.  This can be achieved by holding the worm with your right hand and the hook in your left.  Take the point of the hook and insert it into one end of the worm and then slide the worm’s body over the hook until it is completely covered by the worms body.  Another way of describing this method is simply to send the hook lengthwise through the body of the worm.  This is probably the most common method of adding a worm to a hook. 

Another method is to wrap the worm onto the hook.  This method requires your to take the point of the hook and send it through one side of the worm and then to come out the other site.  This process is repeated until the entire shaft of the hook is filled with the body of the worm.  This is the less preferable method as it uses more worm and increases the chances of it being nibbled off by a Perch or Bluegill.  It is effective however and fish can be caught this way.

Attaching Shiners to a Fishing Hook

Shiners or suckers can be applied to a fishing hook in a variety of methods.  The most popular method is to take the point of the hook and send it through the upper region of the tail of the shiner.  This will allow the shiner to swim freely as well as expose the hook in the correct direction if a Bass or other fish swallows the shiner head first.  It is important to direct the sharp point towards the tail of the fish as Bass and other species generally eat the shiner head first.  If you notice Bluegills, Perch and other species of fish have sharp needle like spines that protrude from their dorsal fins.  This helps them from being eaten from behind from a predator.  The larger predators know this fact and will eat a majority of their prey head first for this reason. 

Applying Small Insects to a Fishing Hook

Small insects can also be used as bait for a variety of fish species.  To name a few Trout, Bass, Pike, Bluegill, Crappie and Perch can all be caught using small Insects.  Some insects to consider as bait would be Beatles, large ants, dragon flies and crickets.  When you hook a small insect you want it to stay alive as long as possible so try to hook it in a region that will cause minimal damage to the body of the insect.  With a Dragonfly, Cricket or Beatle you can hook them through a wing.  It is very difficult to hook and ant without damaging it in some way, but through the lower abdomen is the easiest place to hook an ant.

Good Video Demonstration