Hand line fishing or handlining is what its name implies-- fishing with simple line by hand. It is simply fishing by hand with a line and traditional tackle or improvised tackle. It is simple, relatively easy. and inexpensive.

I was watching Ernest Hemingway's, "The Old Man and the Sea" starring Spencer Tracy. It prominently featured hand line fishing. I always thought of hand line fishing as a survival technique or ice fishing technique, but it actually has more "regular" angling applications and fans.

While many fisherman engage in hand line fishing for sport and fun, it is actually a viable and valuable survival technique.

Here is what you need:

• A decent length of line (2-100 feet)
• Hook with bait or a lure
• Weight (Optional)
• Bobber (Optional)
• A spool of some sort (Some people use a small, used soda bottle)

Here is what to do:

• Toss or drop baited hook or lure into target area
• Leave in place if bait
• Jig (lift and drop in place to create movement)
• Retrieve if a lure requiring movement
• Set (Jerk) the hook upon a bite

The time to learn survival fishing methods is before you need to use them.

Bear in mind some of these techniques are probably illegal in your state-- EXCEPT in true survival situations. It is best to check your local regulations.

Thank you for visiting the Self Reliance Workshop and come back soon for more . . . follow me on Twitter at SelfRelianceWS, DvrcdDadFrglDad, and Surfcasting2Day.

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Related Posts:
Know Your Rights When Fishing or Hunting  
Wilderness Survival Skills: An Introduction to Survival Fishing Methods  
DIY Fishing Gear: A Quick Review  
Wilderness Survival Skills: How to Cross a River  
Wilderness Survival Skills: Don't Take Chances of Injury 

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DDFD believes that self reliance and self sufficiency are the roads to individual freedom.  He is dedicated to living a quality life through frugality, personal growth and productivity, and defensive entrepreneurship.  He also enjoys cooking from scratch  and fishing.