How to start fishing?
In order to begin fishing you could take the following steps:

1. Choose a fishing spot
For your first fishing trip a fishing spot in your local area is recommended as it is easy to reach. It will also be easier for you to find more practiced fishers to give you advice on where to best fishing places close to you are. You could also pick a spot from fishing apps like fishbrain or FishAngler to help select a location. For beginners it is often recommended to fish in a lake rather than a river as there are generally more easy to catch fish available.

2. Obtain a fishing license
You will have to obtain a fishing license for the area you are planning to visit. Licenses can be obtained in fishing stores or online. It is often the case that fishing licenses are cheaper in the area you reside in. You can choose a cheaper single day license, or an annual license if you plan to fish more often.

3.  Learn about fish species
Identifying the fish species present in your chosen area can be important to comply to species specific regulations like size or bag limits. These rules might limit which fish you are allowed to catch in a given season. Common fish you might encounter in lakes are bass, panfish or rainbow trouts.

4. Buy fishing gear
You will need to obtain a fishing rod, a spool, as well as other equipment like bait. For beginners it is usually convenient to buy a rod spool combo. A combo does not require you to attach the spool to the rod yourself. Fishing gear can be bought in local fishing stores. The staff in a fishing store will know more about which parts of their specific assortment is beginner friendly.

5. Choose a bait type
You can fish with either live bait or artificial lures. Live bait can be live worms or a scented putty can help attract fish more easily. Artificial lures are usually more difficult to handle and often not recommended as a starting point.

Further helpful information for your first trip could be found in a local fishing group or forestry departments. You could check whether these groups organize any beginner friendly events, such as fishing clinics or free fishing days in the near future. Additionally, YouTube tutorials for casting techniques, tying knots or assembling your fishing rod might be a helpful resource to learn basic skills.
After choosing the bait type and somewhat learning the technique through YouTube or a coach, what are some recommendations for when I'm actively fishing?