Types Of Fishing Tools | Functions, Uses and Maintenance

Hi, welcome to this hall on The types of Fishing Tools and instruments.

Table Of Contents

1. Introduction and importance
2. History
3. Meaning Of Fishing tools
4. Types of fishing tools
5. Functions of fishing tools
6. Uses of fishing tools
7. Classifications of fishing tools
8. Maintenance of fishing tools.
9. Materials Used in Making Fishing Tools
10. Revision Questions.

Introduction

Fishing is one of the oldest occupations known to human beings, dating back thousands of years to when early humans relied on rivers, lakes, and seas as a primary source of food. The earliest fishing activities began with the use of bare hands, sharpened sticks, and simple traps to catch fish in shallow waters. Over time, as human knowledge and technology advanced, people began to develop more effective tools such as hooks, nets, spears, and boats, adapting their fishing methods to different water bodies and fish species.

In regions like Nigeria and across West Africa, fishing remains a vital livelihood, especially among communities along coastal areas, rivers, and inland water bodies. Here, fishing tools have evolved from traditional woven baskets and wooden canoes to include more modern equipment like nylon nets, motorized boats, and fishing lines. Whether used for subsistence or commercial purposes, the effectiveness of fishing depends largely on the type and quality of tools employed.

Fishing tools are the instruments or equipment used to locate, capture, and handle fish from their natural habitats. These tools may be manual or mechanized, simple or sophisticated, depending on the method of fishing and the environment. The proper selection, use, and maintenance of fishing tools are essential for productive, safe, and sustainable fishing practices.

In this hall, we will study the different types of fishing tools, their functions and specific uses, and how they can be properly maintained to extend their usefulness and improve fishing outcomes.

The Meaning Of Fishing Tool

What Are Fishing Tools: The fishing tools are instruments used by fish Farmers and fisherman to harvest or catch fishes in the ponds, lake, rivers and seas when they are mature.

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• Simple Farm tools: functions and thier uses
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TYPES OF FISHING TOOLS

The types of fishing tools commonly used by fish farmers are:

1. Fishing spear and harpoons
2. Fish traps or cages
3. Fishing hooks
4. Fishing net such as cast net, hand net, and dragnet.
5. Fly Fishing nets
6. Fishing basket
7. Fishing canoe
8. Fishing lines

1. Fishing Spear: This is one of the earliest types of fishing tools used to catch fishes. The instrument is made of metal with sharp pointed head. It has a wooden handle which is attached to the metal.

Functions And Uses Of Fishing Tool (Spear)

• The fishing spear is used to pierce through fishes in the pond or rivers.
• Another kind of fishing spear is the harpoons. This consists of a short spear which is tied to a rope. It is used mainly in killing whales.

2. Fishing Traps or Cages

Description: Fishing trap is another types of fishing tools. Fishing traps or cages are usually made of Cane ropes and split bamboo sticks. Those constructed with wire netting are also common. The traps are constructed with wide Mount to enable fishes enter the cage or trap and narrow ends. Any fish that enters the trap is held inside by the trap door.

3. Fishing Hooks

Description: These are small metal instruments. They are curved and sharp. There are two types of fishing hooks. These are:

(i) Pole and line Hook: This consists of a hook line made of twine and pole. The hook is attached to the line and the line tied to the pole.

Functions And Uses Of Fishing Tool Line Hook

• Before the line is thrown into the water. Bait such as insects, worms and small fishes are attached to the hook
• The baits attracts the fish.
• Any heavy substance can be tied to the line so that it will not float on top of water.
• The fishes are caught in the mouth when they try to eat the bait.

(ii) The long line hooks: This consists of many hooks attached to the line. The line with the hooks are tied to a pole each at both ends of the stream. The Poles are used to hold the line and hooks in the water. The fishes are caught when they swallow the baits attached to the hooks.

4. Fishing Nets

Description: The fishing nets are one of the types of fishing tools and are made of nylon with suitable mesh size. Depending on the size,

Functions And Uses Of Fishing Nets

• Fishing nets are generally used for the harvesting of fish from either pond, streams, Rivers, lakes, oceans or sea
• The net can be used to harvest large or small fishes.

There are different types of fishing nets. These includes.

1. Hand or scoop net: The hand net is used to catch fishes in the pond and Rivers. Like other nets, is made of nylon or wire netting and an iron handle.
2. Cast Net: This is sometimes called the throw net and is used to trap fishes in the water.
3. The drag Net: This is also made of suitable mesh size nylon net and two sticks. The end of the net are tied to the sticks. Why one of the sticks is head tightly in position, the other is used to drag the net through the water to catch fishes in ponds.

5. Fly Fishing Line

Description: Specifically designed for fly fishing, it’s a specialized weight-forward line matched to the fly rod.

6. Fishing Basket

Description: The basket is made with the cane rope or the back of the midrib or rachis of palm fronds. The small baskets as fishing tools as common with the ijaw people or people who live along the banks of rivers.

Functions And Uses Of Fishing Tool (Basket)

• The basket are used to scoop the water in order to catch fishes.

7. Fishing Canoes

Description: The canoe is a fishing equipment that is carved out from timber or log. Different sizes of canoes are available.

Functions And Uses Of Fishing Tool (Canoe)

• With the aid of the paddle the canoes are used to move to fishing area in the River by fishermen.
• From the canoe the cast net can be thrown into the water to catch fishes.
• It is used to transport caught fishes out of the water.

Features of a Canaoe

Stability: Fishing canoes are often designed to be stable, providing a secure platform for anglers to cast and reel in their catch.

Storage: They may have storage compartments for fishing gear, tackle boxes, and other essentials.

Rod Holders: Some fishing canoes come equipped with built-in rod holders, making it convenient for anglers to manage multiple rods.

Seating: Comfortable seating is important for long hours on the water, and fishing canoes may have adjustable or swivel seats.

Attachment Points: Canoes designed for fishing often include attachment points for accessories like rod holders, fish finders, or additional storage containers.

Durability: Given the potential for bumps and scrapes while fishing, these canoes are typically durable and resistant to damage.

8. Fishing lines

Description: A fishing line is a critical component of fishing gear, serving as the connection between the angler and the fish. It is a thin, strong, and flexible cord or filament that is typically made from various materials. The three main types of fishing lines are: monofilament line, braided line and fluorocarbon line.

Classification of Fishing Tools

Fishing tools can be classified based on how they operate, the level of technology used in their construction, and the depth or zone of water in which they are applied. These classifications help determine which tools are most suitable for specific fishing environments and purposes, whether for small-scale, traditional, or commercial fishing.

One common way to classify fishing tools is by their method of operation. Tools that require the active involvement of the fisher during use are called active fishing tools. These include gear like cast nets, hook and line, spears, and trawling nets, which depend on constant action to locate and capture fish. On the other hand, passive fishing tools are those that are set in the water and left to function without continuous effort. Examples include basket traps, gill nets, and long lines, which capture fish that swim into or become entangled in them.

Fishing tools can also be grouped based on their level of technology. Traditional fishing tools are usually made from locally available materials such as bamboo, raffia, or wood, and are used primarily in artisanal or subsistence fishing. Common examples are wooden spears, hand-woven traps, dugout canoes, and simple lines. In contrast, modern fishing tools make use of synthetic materials and advanced equipment, and are often employed in commercial and industrial fishing. These include nylon gill nets, metal fishing rods and reels, motorized boats, and even electronic fish finders.

Another useful classification is based on the function of the tool and the water zone it targets. Surface fishing tools are designed to catch fish that swim close to the top of the water and include tools like hook and line and surface nets. Mid-water fishing tools operate in the middle layers of the water body, where species such as sardines or mackerel are often found; examples include seine nets and drift nets. Bottom fishing tools are used to catch fish near or on the bottom of rivers, lakes, or oceans. These include bottom trawls, traps, cages, and weighted hooks.

Overall, the classification of fishing tools helps in selecting the right equipment for different fishing methods, increasing efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

Classification of Fishing Tools

Classification Criteria	Type	Description	Examples
Operation Method	Active Tools	Require direct and continuous human effort to catch fish	Cast nets, hook and line, spears, trawl nets
	Passive Tools	Set in water to capture fish without constant human action	Basket traps, gill nets, long lines
Technology Level	Traditional Tools	Made from local materials, used in subsistence or artisanal fishing	Wooden spears, raffia traps, dugout canoes
	Modern Tools	Made from synthetic or industrial materials, used in commercial fishing	Nylon nets, fishing reels, motorized boats
Target Fishing Zone	Surface Tools	Designed to catch fish near the surface of water	Hook and line, surface nets
	Mid-Water Tools	Used to catch fish swimming in mid-depth water layers	Seine nets, drift nets
	Bottom Fishing Tools	Target fish found at the bottom of rivers, lakes, or seas	Traps, cages, bottom trawls, weighted hooks

Maintenance Of Fishing Tools

To maintain the various types of fishing tools and ensure their longevity, follow these tips:

1. Clean After Use: Rinse rods, reels, and other tools with freshwater after each use to remove salt, sand, and debris.
2. Dry Thoroughly: Allow equipment to air-dry completely to prevent corrosion, especially for reels and hooks.
3. Oil and Lubricate: Regularly apply lubricating oil to reel components, including the handle and drag system. Check manufacturer recommendations for specific products.
4. Inspect for Damage: Check rods, reels, and lines for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Replace or repair any compromised parts.
5. Store Properly: Store rods in a rod rack or protective case to prevent bending or breaking. Keep reels in reel bags or cases.
6. Check Rod Guides: Ensure rod guides are free of nicks and cracks, as these can damage fishing lines.
7. Replace Fishing Lines: Change monofilament and fluorocarbon lines regularly, as they can weaken over time.
8. Sharpen Hooks: Keep hooks sharp for better hook sets. Use a hook file to maintain their points.
9. Organize Tackle Boxes: Periodically organize and clean your tackle box, discarding damaged lures and organizing items neatly.
10. Inspect Knots: Check and re-tie fishing knots regularly to ensure strength and reliability.

By These maintenance practices, you can extend the life of your different types of fishing tools and enhance their performance on your fishing expeditions.

Materials Used in Making Fishing Tools

These types of Fishing tools are made from a variety of traditional and modern materials, depending on the type of tool, the fishing environment, and the target species. The choice of materials affects the durability, efficiency, flexibility, and cost of the tools. In many rural and coastal areas, especially in Nigeria and West Africa, fishermen still combine locally available natural materials with commercially manufactured components to create effective fishing gear.

Below are common materials used in making fishing tools:

1. Natural or Traditional Materials

These are locally sourced materials used especially in subsistence and artisanal fishing:

• Bamboo – Used for fishing rods, traps, and spears.
• Raffia and Palm Fronds – Used for weaving fish traps or baskets.
• Wood – Used in making paddles, canoes, and trap frames.
• Cotton Twine or Natural Fiber Ropes – Formerly used in older nets and lines.

2. Modern or Industrial Materials

These are stronger, more durable materials used in commercial and large-scale fishing:

• Nylon – Commonly used for making nets due to its flexibility and resistance to water damage.
• Steel and Iron – Used for making hooks, harpoons, boat engines, and trap frames.
• Plastic and PVC – Used in making floats, net handles, containers, and parts of modern fishing rods.
• Aluminum and Fiberglass – Used in manufacturing boats, paddles, and fishing reels.
• Synthetic Ropes and Cords – Used in trawlers and strong fishing lines for heavy-duty fishing.

3. Recycled and Repurposed Materials

In some local communities, fishermen creatively reuse:

• Old plastic bottles or cans – As floats or bobbers.
• Scrap metal – As sinkers or weights.
• Used tires or mesh wire – For fish trap construction.

Proper selection of materials not only ensures successful fishing but also contributes to tool longevity, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Advantages of Fishing Tools

• Increased Efficiency: Modern tools like trawl nets and motorized boats help catch large quantities of fish quickly.
• Accessibility: Traditional tools like baskets and hooks are easy to use and require minimal training.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Local fishing gear made from natural materials is affordable and easily repairable.
• Suitability: Different tools are designed for specific environments (surface, mid-water, or bottom), increasing effectiveness.

Disadvantages of Fishing Tools

• Overfishing Risk: Large-scale tools like trawlers can lead to excessive fish harvest and depletion of fish stocks.
• Environmental Damage: Some modern tools, especially bottom trawls, can destroy aquatic habitats.
• Bycatch: Non-target species are often caught and killed unintentionally, especially with nets.
• Cost of Modern Tools: Advanced equipment is expensive and may not be affordable for small-scale fishermen.

READ ALSO – Fishery Regulations And Basic Laws In Agriculture

READ ALSO – Fishing Techniques: Methods and Sustainable Practices in Agriculture

READ ALSO – Common Fish Diseases: Causes and Control Measures

Revision Questions

1. What are fishing tools?
2. List and explain the types of fishing tools
3. What is fishing canoes? Description and uses?
4. List 5 functions of each fishing tools mentioned in this article.
5. List 10 maintenance practices of fishing tools.