| How to Stake a Plant Posted: 20 Apr 2022 01:00 AM PDT Sometimes plants can withstand the elements on their own, while others may need help standing up and thriving. Plants may move too much in the wind or are too heavy to stay off the ground. The main purpose for staking plants is to provide support for the plants, whether they're flowers or vegetables. In order to know how to stake a plant correctly, you must know the growth rate of the plants and the type of weather conditions the plants may encounter. - Determine the size and amounts of plant stake you need. If you have a fast-growing plant, you may need to re-stake them every few months. Consider how large the plant will be in a year, and stake accordingly. The stake should be about 12 inches (30.5 cm) higher than the plant. Additionally, if your plant is in an area that doesn't suffer from strong winds, you may be able to use 1 to 2 stakes. For gustier winds, plan for at least 3 stakes.[1]
- If you're using wooden stakes, make sure the wood is left untreated. Stains or paints on the wood may contain chemicals that can leach into the soil.
- Reusable garden stakes are a long-lasting option and fold easily for winter storage. Ideal for vegetable plants, these stakes might come in L shapes and hook closely together to make whatever size you desire.
- Strike the stake about 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) away from the plant's stem into the ground by using a hammer or mallet. Place the stake at an angle to offer additional support to the plant.[2]
- Secure the stake to the plant with non-wired plant ties, nylon stockings, or strong wool. You should use a figure-8 loop to allow the plant to move without scratching or rubbing the stem. You can use the same method for more than 1 stake.[3]
- Check on your plants regularly, and apply additional ties when the plans grow. Add the ties about 6 to 8 inches (15.2 to 20.3 cm) apart. Make sure you secure the tie to the stake and not the plant. All of the branches may be gathered at a single stake near the plant's center to provide additional support.[4]
- For established plants, make sure you avoid the roots when striking the stake into the ground. If you hit the roots, you may injure or even kill the plant.
- Tying off plants may seem like a lot of work, but it is necessary if you want to help your plants thrive. Without the ties, the plants may bend over, become covered in mud, or snap off and die.
- Set out plant supports in early spring when the perennial plants are just beginning to grow. If you're planting annuals or vegetables, you can add the stakes at the same time you plant them.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Plant stakes
- Hammer or mallet
- Non-wired plant ties, nylon stockings or strong wool
[Edit]References |
| How to Wear Riding Boots Posted: 19 Apr 2022 05:00 PM PDT Riding boots are a must-have for any fashionista's wardrobe, but knowing how to wear these boots impacts your style just as much as actually owning a pair does. Play around with different looks until you find a style that works for you. In the meantime, here are a few ideas to start with. [Edit]With Tucked-In Jeans - Select a pair of skinny jeans. The jeans you wear need to hug your leg in order to fit beneath your riding boots without bunching up. For this reason, skinny jeans are the best option.
- If you do not have skinny jeans, you can fold another pair of jeans into your riding boots. Select the snuggest pair of jeans your own to accomplish this.
- Create a clean, even cuff by folding the bottom of each leg up. Roll up enough of the material to reveal your ankle.
- Pull the extra material at the back of each leg out and fold it over, creating a crease.
- Roll the leg of your jean up once more to create another cuff that can secure the cuff in place.
- Consider the color and wash. A traditional blue denim works great with riding boots of all shades and styles, but you can also have a little fun by playing with skinny jeans in different colors.
- Other neutrals, like black and gray, can create a flattering and mature look.
- White skinny jeans have a clean yet daring appearance.
- Nowadays, jeans come in a variety of bright and pastel hues, as well. You can add a fun shock of color to an otherwise plain outfit simply by exchanging your standard blue jeans for a magenta jean or light orange jean.
- Create a Western look with the right blouse.[1] If you have brown riding boots, you can use them in a country-Western inspired outfit. While riding boots and cowboy boots are two very different beasts, brown riding boots are reminiscent enough of cowboy boots to make the look work.
- Wear a simple plaid button-down shirt. You can choose a shirt in a loose or fitted style, but either way, it should have some volume to it in order to balance out the sleek, slim silhouette of your lower half.
- Stick with medium to dark wash, blue denim skinny jeans.
- Accessorize as desired. You can wear simple jewelry or look for a few country-inspired pieces to accent this ensemble. Keep things fairly understated, though. Trading cowboy boots in for riding boots softens the Western style, so your accessories need to be softened, as well.
- Go for an equestrian style.[2] Riding boots are worn when riding horses, so adding a hint of equestrian flair to your style pays homage to this fashion fad's origins.
- Wear white or cream colored skinny jeans and black riding boots.
- Select a crisp, fitted shirt with clean lines. A standard white button-down shirt works well, but there is room for variety here as long as the silhouette remains clean.
- Slip a blazer on over your shirt. Wear a fitted blazer in black or navy blue for a more traditional look, or try a colored blazer for a fun spin on this style.
- Attempt a casual look. The simplest way to wear your riding boots is with a standard blouse and your usual accessories.
- Select riding boots and skinny jeans in any color and style. Just make sure that the colors coordinate with the colors of your blouse.
- While most tops work well enough, the best option is a loose, flowing blouse made of soft, draping fabric. You can choose an empire-waist top to define your waist, or you could simply wrap a belt around an airy blouse at the waist to add the same sort of definition. Regardless, a shirt with volume creates a smart contrast with the skinny silhouette of your bottom half.
[Edit]Covered by Flared Jeans and Trousers - Wear bootcut jeans. These jeans are aptly labeled as "bootcut" because they flair out just enough at the bottom to slip comfortably and loosely over boots of all heights and styles, including riding boots.
- This style works best when work with standard blue denim, but you can select any wash that appeals to you.
- If you do opt for a colored jean, stick with neutral colors like black, gray, white, and brown.
- Make sure your jeans are long enough to cover the majority of your boot but short enough to reveal the toe and heel of the boot.
- Alternatively, trade your jeans for corduroys. As with bootcut jeans, you should wear your corduroys over the boots so that just the toes remain visible.
- Play with the color of your corduroys. You can wear corduroys in a traditional color, like tan, brown, black, or gray, or you can opt for a deep shade of a less traditional color, like olive green or midnight blue.
- Dress the look up. This look can be turned into a business-casual style with relative ease when you select a pair of dark wash jeans or corduroys and black riding boots.
- Wear a simple button-down shirt over your pants or a well-fit blouse in a solid color or fine pattern. You can wear a blazer over the shirt to add a greater degree of professionalism to this look, or you could leave it off for a stronger casual hint.
- Accessorize, but keep it simple and classy. Plain metal jewelry is preferable over elaborate costume jewelry with large gemstones or bright colors.
- Dress the look down. By wearing light to medium wash jeans and a less professional top, you can easily make black or brown riding boots work for a chic, easy-going weekend ensemble.
- Your top can be loose and flowing or snug and fitted. Since your jeans flare out at the bottom, the silhouette on your legs is not quite as skinny as it is when you wear skinny jeans with your riding boots. As a result, you can wear a loose, flowing shirt to maintain an overall air of balance or you can go with a snugger top to create a smoother, more streamlined appearance from top to bottom.
[Edit]With a Skirt or Dress - Mix things up with a maxi skirt. Select a maxi with more volume so that the skirt does not cling to your boots.[3]
- Also consider trying out a maxi skirt or dress with a long slit up the side to transform the look from dowdy and maternal to daring and flirty.
- To prevent the look from becomes too boxy or shapeless, wear something fitted at the top. Choose a fitted top with a daring neckline or exposed back when wearing a maxi skirt. If wearing a maxi dress, shrug a fitted cardigan, blazer, or jacket on over the dress to create more shape around your torso.
- Show off your legs with a shorter skirt. Select a full, A-line, or pleated skirt to balance out the slim silhouette of your lower leg.[4]
- Go with a mini skirt if you have riding boots that extend up to your knee or past it. The idea is to allow a portion of your leg to peek through in between the boot and lower hemline of the skirt.
- A knee-length skirt works well if your riding boots hit below the knee. Moreover, knee-length skirts flatter most body types and can be used to create both sweet and sexy looks.
- You have considerable room to play around with tops when wearing a shorter skirt. Fitted tops are often used to balance out the curves created by a flared out skirt, but whether you choose a shirt with a demure or sultry style is up to you.
- Decide between bare legs and covered legs. If wearing a thin, flowing fabric, bare legs often looks best. For heavier materials, leggings and tights may look more appropriate.
- A knee-length skirt made of a stiff material like wool, tweed, corduroy, or denim is often associated with cooler weather, so tights often seem fitting in this instance.
- Short and long skirts made from light, breezy materials like linen and various cotton blends often look better when worn with bare legs, since this style is more commonly associated with warmer weather.
[Edit]With Leggings - Pick out an appropriate color and texture. A smooth legging in a shade that matches your riding boots will create a crisp, trendy appearance, but you can play with color and texture to put different spins on your style.
- Cable-knit leggings have a warm, cozy ambiance, while other textures and patterns, like lace-overlay, can have a flirty or playful air.
- You can also wear leggings that contrast against the riding boot in order to show your boot off more. For instance, white leggings against black riding boots can create a dynamic contrast capable of making your riding boots stand out more.
- Wear leggings with a skirt and riding boots. The most common thing to wear leggings and riding boots with are winter skirts and dresses.
- Consider wearing smooth, solid leggings with a sweater dress for a sleek fall and winter look. To create a cozier appearance, trade the smooth leggings for a cable-knit pair.
- When selecting a separate skirt to wear with your riding boots and leggings, choose a heavier material like wool or corduroy over something light and airy like linen.
- Slip on a pair of shorts for a funky, fashion-forward style. This look is a little bolder and less common than many others, but it can create a dramatic effect when done well.
- Select a pair of fitted shorts that come down to the mid-thigh. Super short shorts can work, as well, but long shorts that come down to the knee reduce the effect by shortening the leg too much.
- The shorts can be standard blue denim, but you can also have fun with a gray denim, colored khaki, or patterned pair of shorts.
- This is also a good opportunity to play around with colored and patterned leggings. For example, you could try metallic leggings to give your style added sheen. When wearing colored or patterned leggings, though, you should avoid shorts with bright colors or patterns. You should also keep your shirt fairly subdued to prevent anything from clashing.
- Try on a long tunic.[5] A loose tunic that comes down to your mid-thigh can create a stylish yet casual weekend look when matched with riding boots and simple leggings.
- The loose, flowing appearance of a tunic balances out the slim-fit style of leggings and riding boots.
- For this look, smooth leggings that closely match the color of your boots work better than leggings in elaborate patterns or contrasting colors.
[Edit]Riding boots with knee socks Wear the skinny jeans with knee socks over them and then the riding boots. Have the knee socks slouch down around the top of the riding boots. 1. Put on your skinny jeans and your top. Or put on your leggings or tights and your knee length or shorter dress or skirt. 2. Pull on your knee socks over your skinny jeans or leggings or tights. 3. Put on your riding boots. 4. Slouch your knee socks at the top of your riding boots. Now you are good to go. Black and grey are common tights and leggings colors and look good especially with brown riding boots with black tights or leggings and white knee socks. But experiment with different colors of skinny jeans, tights and leggings and knee socks and find other great stylish combinations. You could switch out the knee socks and use leg warmers in the same way as the knee socks for another great stylish option. [Edit]Things You'll Need - Riding boots
- Skinny jeans
- Loose, flowing tops
- Blazers
- Bootcut jeans
- Fitted tops
- Skirt
- Dress
- Leggings
- Tights
- Shorts
- Tunics
- Knee socks
- Leg warmers
[Edit]References |
| How to Enable Push Notifications on iOS Posted: 19 Apr 2022 09:00 AM PDT Want to receive instant push notifications from apps on your iPhone or iPad? Turning on notifications is super easy, and you can even customize how they appear on the screen. This wikiHow article will teach you how to enable notifications for apps like Mail, Messages, and social media apps, as well as emergency notifications from your local authorities. [Edit]Enabling Push Notifications for Apps - Open your iPhone's Settings app . You'll find this gray gear icon on your Home screen, in your App Library, or by searching.
- Tap . This option has a red icon with a white bell. You'll see it in the second group of settings.
- Choose whether to show notification previews. By default, your iPhone or iPad will display a preview of the notification, such as the first few lines of a text message or the phone number from a missed call.[1] Tap Previews to adjust these settings:
- Select Always to allow all notifications to show previews.
- Select When unlocked to only show notification previews when your screen is unlocked. This is a good option if you don't want people to see your notifications on your locked phone screen.
- Select Never if you just want to see the name of the app that has a notification available without any identifying details.
- Tap the app you want to manage. Each app on your iPhone has its own push notification settings.
- Toggle the "Allow Notifications" switch to On . As long as this switch is enabled, you'll receive push notifications for this app.
- Choose your alert preferences. By default, all three alert types are enabled. You can use the checkmarks below each option to control the alerts you see.[2]
- Check Lock Screen to see push notifications on the lock screen.
- Check Notification Center to see notifications when you pull down the Notification Center from the top of your iPhone's or iPad's screen.
- Check "Banners" to see pop-up notifications each time the app wants to notify you.
- Tap Banner Style to choose Persistent notifications (notifications that stay on the screen until you swipe them away or Temporary (notifications go away after displaying for a few seconds on the screen).
- Choose whether to hear notification sounds. Depending on the app, you may be able to turn on notification sounds. Toggle the "Sounds" switch to allow that app to play your default notification sound when a new notification is received.
- Choose whether to show notification badges. Depending on the app, you might see a "Badges" switch. Toggling this switch to On (green) displays the number of new notifications for that app on its Home screen icon.
[Edit]Enabling Government and Emergency Notifications - Open your iPhone's Settings app . You'll find this gray gear icon on your Home screen, in your App Library, or by searching.
- Depending on your region, you may be able to enable or disable notifications that can alert you to emergencies, such as extreme weather and conditions or imminent threats to your safety. These notifications are enabled by default, but you can turn them on or off as needed.[3]
- Some regions do not allow you to disable government alerts.
- Tap . This option has a red icon with a white bell. You'll see it in the second group of settings.
- Scroll all the way down to the bottom. The last section of the Notifications panel is the "Government Alerts" section.
- Use the toggle switches to enable notifications . For example, if you're in the United States, you can toggle the Amber Alerts and/or Public Safety notifications on if you want to be notified of missing children.
- Tap . You'll find additional options in this section.
- Toggle "Emergency Alerts" to On . This option allows you to enable or disable emergency alerts from government leaders, state, and local authorities.[4]
- Choose whether to always play a sound. If you toggle "Always Play Sound" to On (green), you will hear an alert tone even if your iPhone is in silent mode or focus mode.
- If you're not receiving notifications, make sure you haven't enabled a Focus Mode. Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right of the screen (or swiping up from the bottom), and then tap the moon icon to disable the current Focus Mode.
- Some apps have additional push notification settings within the app itself. For example, there are many ways to customize your Twitter notification in the Twitter app that you won't be able to manage in your iPhone or iPad's Settings app.
- Depending on your Focus Mode preferences, you may not receive notifications while you're in Sleep, Driving, or other Focus Modes.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Surprise Your Girlfriend Posted: 19 Apr 2022 01:00 AM PDT Whether you're planning for her birthday, celebrating your anniversary, or just showing your love and appreciation, a fun surprise for your girlfriend is always a good idea. It's easy for a couple to get so caught up in their lives that they forget to show their love for each other.[1] That's why we've compiled a list of cute and romantic surprises that you can use to wow your girlfriend and make her feel special. [Edit]Write a love note. - Your girlfriend will love a sweet hand-written note. Sit down and write about all the things you love about her, and don't be afraid to get specific! When you're done, seal it inside an envelope and give it to her when she least expects it.[2]
- Don't live near your girlfriend? No problem! Send her your letter in the mail for a lovely surprise.
- You could also write little notes and leave them throughout your house! Try putting a few love notes in her coat pocket, her coffee cup, or underneath her pillow.
[Edit]Run her a bath. - Let her lounge in a warm bathtub full. Run a bath full of warm water, and don't forget a body-safe bath bomb! Light a few candles in the bathroom and leave some soap on the side. Let her soak for as long as she wants, and bring her a snack if she gets hungry.
- Play her favorite music or read her a book while she sits in the bath.
[Edit]Make her a playlist. - A mix of her favorite songs is sure to make her smile. Curate a playlist on Spotify or YouTube full of songs you think she'd like (or ones that remind you of her). Send it to her or play it for her the next time you see her to watch her face light up with joy.
- This is a great long distance gift idea! Since you can send a playlist anywhere, you don't have to be in-person to give her this gift.
[Edit]Watch the sunset together. - This romantic date is super easy to do. Pick your girlfriend up and drive to the highest spot near you, but don't tell her where you're going! Park in a spot where you can see the sunset clearly, then sit back and watch as it sets.
- Don't forget to bring a few snacks!
[Edit]Do a few of her chores. - Let your girlfriend relax by taking on some of her tasks. If you know your girlfriend has been super busy with work or school, surprise her by doing the dishes, folding some laundry, or vacuuming the house. She'll probably be super grateful, and you two can relax together afterwards.
- You could also run an errand for her if she hasn't had time, or go pick up some groceries for her.
[Edit]Engage in some PDA. - A public display of affection lets your girlfriend know you love her. If you don't usually engage in PDA, try surprising your girlfriend with a quick kiss or a hug the next time you two are out. If she likes PDA, she'll be happy that you're showing her affection where other people can see.
- If you or your girlfriend aren't into PDA, that's totally fine! Pick a different surprise that she'll like instead.
[Edit]Cook her dinner. - Show off your chef skills and make your girlfriend happy. Head to the store and buy all the ingredients for something delicious that your girlfriend will love. Surprise her by cooking her a full meal, and don't forget to clean the kitchen afterward![3]
- Try making pasta, lobster, or steak.
[Edit]Make her breakfast in bed. - If you're a morning person, use your time to surprise your GF. Wake up before she does and whip up something delicious, like pancakes, eggs, or bacon. Present it to her in bed on a tray so she can eat yummy food while she wakes up.
- Pair your meal with a cup of coffee or tea to make it extra special.
[Edit]Have a picnic. - Move your lunch or dinner outside to make it extra special. Pack up all the things you'll need for a meal, and bring along a big blanket to sit on. Spread your food out at the park or in your backyard and enjoy a meal with a view!
- If the weather is crummy or you don't feel like going out, have a picnic inside instead! Spread out a big blanket in your living room and eat off of paper plates to make things feel special.
[Edit]Leave her a treat in the fridge. - Surprise her with something yummy that she'll really like. Grab her a delicious dessert or make her a nice dinner, then leave it in the fridge. Put a note on the outside that says "Open me!" When she comes home, she'll probably be really excited about her special surprise.
- You could also grab her a milkshake, a coffee drink, or some ice cream.
[Edit]Bring her lunch at work. - If she forgot to bring food to work, take her something delicious. Text or call her ahead of time to make sure it's okay, then show up with her favorite food. If she has time, you could even sit and eat with her for an impromptu date while she's on her lunch break!
- Try packing a sandwich, some chips, and a drink for an easy lunch option that she's sure to love.
[Edit]Put a hot water bottle on her side of the bed. - Give her something warm and cozy to fall asleep with. If it's your girlfriend's time of the month or it's just chilly outside, fill up a hot water bottle with water and place it on her side of the bed. When she comes in the room, let her know that it's there for her to cuddle with as she drifts off to dreamland.
- You could also use an electric heating pad.
[Edit]Build or make her something. - Use your trade skills to create something special for her. If you're good with your hands or you know how to do a craft, try creating something! A special gift that was made with love is sure to make her smile, and it doesn't have to be perfect.
- For instance, if you're good at woodworking, you could make her a cutting board or a nice wooden box.
- If you know how to knit, you could try making her a hat or a cozy scarf.
[Edit]Create a slideshow of memories. - Walk her down memory lane from the beginning of your relationship. Head into Google Slides or PowerPoint and put together a few minutes of pics of the two of you. Start at the beginning of your relationship and keep going all the way up until the present to reminisce about sweet memories together.
- If physical photos are more your thing, get a bunch printed out and go through them in-person together instead.
[Edit]Frame a photo of the two of you. - Give her a gift she can hang on her wall. Find a good picture of the two of you, then get it printed out at your local print shop. Pick up a nice frame and wrap it up, then hand off your surprise when she least expects it.[4]
- You can get photos printed fairly cheaply at most drug stores.
[Edit]Make her a scrapbook. - Compile a ton of fun memories into one sweet book. Get some photos printed out and then glue or tape them into a scrapbook. Fill it with your fondest memories, and don't forget to make it look nice! When you give it to her, you can spend some time flipping through the pages together.
- Use stickers, patterned paper, and Washi tape to make your scrapbook extra special.
[Edit]Buy a bouquet of flowers. - This classic gift makes almost every girl smile. If it's a special occasion or you just want to show your GF some love, stop by a florist and grab a bouquet of flowers. Give them to your girlfriend to cheer her up and make her happy.[5]
- To make those flowers last, buy a vase and keep them in water.
[Edit]Fill a gift bag with her favorite things. - Show your girlfriend that you remember everything she likes. Grab a gift bag and fill it with fun goodies, like snacks, treats, and makeup. When she receives her gift, she'll be so happy that you remembered her favorite things![6]
- You could also buy notebooks, pens, stickers, nail polish, or stuffed animals.
- For some cheap and easy gift ideas, visit the dollar section of your local home goods store.
[Edit]Give her a full body massage. - Relieve her stress and make her feel relaxed. Have your girlfriend lay down and slowly massage her legs, her feet, her back, and her shoulders. If you really want to make things calming and cozy, light a few candles and turn on some soothing music.[7]
- Use some lotion to make your massage extra sensual and smooth.
[Edit]Give her lingerie. - Get your GF in the mood with some new underwear. If you want to surprise her with a sweet but sultry gift, pick out some lingerie that you think she might like. When she opens it, tell her how excited you are to see her in it the next time you two get intimate.[8]
- In a long distance relationship? No problem! Order her some lingerie online and have it delivered to her home.
[Edit]Set the mood with candles. - Make your home extra relaxing with dim lighting. While your girlfriend is gone, turn down the lights and light a bunch of tea lights (or turn on battery-powered lights). When she comes home, have some relaxing music playing so she feels calm and tranquil.
- This is also a good way to set the mood before getting intimate with her.
[Edit]Sprinkle rose petals on the bed. - Make your next time in the bedroom extra special. While your girlfriend is out of the house, get some rose petals and sprinkle them on top of the bed. Add a few in the pathway leading up to the bedroom, then light a few candles. When she comes home, she'll be surprised by all the planning that went into this romantic gesture.
- Dim the lights and play some mood music to really get the vibes right.
[Edit]Plan a day of pampering. - Book a day at the spa to let your girlfriend relax. If it's in your budget, call a local spa or salon and sign your GF up for a massage, a facial, and a pedicure. Drop her off for a wonderful day of relaxation with no obligations.
- Don't have a spa day in the bank? That's okay! You can pamper your girlfriend at home. Buy a few face masks, some nail polish, and some fancy lotion, then offer her the same services that a salon would.
[Edit]Send her on a scavenger hunt. - Plan a romantic treasure hunt that ends in a candlelit dinner. Write out cute clues that lead her around town, and leave little gifts at each one. At the end of the night, meet up with her and have a romantic dinner, just the two of you. Use clues like:
- "I'm in the kitchen, and you'll never eat me, but the dog sure loves to greet me." (The clue is in or near dog food).
- "Turn out the lights in the room and go rest your head on me. I'll help you fall fast asleep." (The clue is under her pillow).
[Edit]Recreate your first date. - Relive your fondest memories by taking her out for the "first" time. Think about where you two went when you first met. Then, take her out on the same (or extremely similar) date, down to what you eat! Reminisce about all the fun times you've had, and don't forget to share your "first" kiss all over again.
[Edit]Plan a romantic weekend away. - Surprise your girlfriend with a hotel or an Airbnb. Make reservations for somewhere nearby, like at the beach or in the mountains. Ask her to clear her schedule, but don't tell her why! Then, you two can take a romantic road trip and spend the weekend together just relaxing.[9]
- Make sure you double check her schedule before making any plans. Otherwise, there could be scheduling conflicts.
[Edit]Host a surprise party. - Celebrate your girlfriend with her friends and family. If your girlfriend's birthday is coming up or she just achieved one of her goals, plan a huge party, but don't tell her about it! Invite her closest friends and family members, then have them jump out when she least expects it.
- Get your girlfriend out of the house by taking her on a shopping spree. Have a friend decorate the place while you're gone, then come home to a party that your girlfriend will never forget.
[Edit]Check off something on her bucket list. - What's something your girlfriend has always wanted to do? If you really want to surprise her, make plans to check off that one thing she's had in mind for years. It might take some planning, so start early![10]
- If she's always wanted to go skydiving, sign her up for a lesson.
- If she's always wanted to travel overseas, buy plane tickets for the two of you.
- When you look for gifts, don't just buy something at random—make sure it's something your girlfriend will actually like![11]
- Keep your girlfriend's love language in mind to personalize her surprise.[12]
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Use a Fishing Rod Posted: 18 Apr 2022 05:00 PM PDT Fishing is both a fun and complicated endeavor. There are a variety of rods for both hobbyists and professionals. There are a number of factors that determine the type of rod you should be using including the type of fish, the type of lure, and water conditions. Don't worry—if you're new to using fishing rods, we've got you covered. Check out the tips below to learn how to use a fishing rod for freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and even ice fishing. [Edit]Getting Started - Choose your lure.[1] Lures are great for beginners because they are less messy than live bait. They also cover a lot of water and are more efficient when targeting specific types of fish. While lures can get caught on debris and be relatively expensive but should be used depending on the type of fish and water conditions. Choose the type of lure based on these basic principles[2]:
 - Jigs are the most versatile lures. They require the most skill as you must cast it out and wait until it falls to the bottom of the water before retrieve it to induce a strike with its movement. Feeling the strike can be difficult as jigs may get caught on debris or just feel like their moving along with the current.
- Spinners are also great for beginners because you simply have to cast and retrieve. They are designed to create a spinning action that can vibrate through murky water and entice a bite.
- Spoons are designed so that they create a side-to-side wobble upon retrieval that mimics injured prey fish. You can vary the speed of the wobble by slowing down your retrieval.
- Soft plastic baits are meant to mimic live bait. They will resemble critters like worms, crawfish, or frogs. Depending on the type of plastic bait, simply mimic the movement of the critter that it resembles.
- Flies are exactly as they sound. They are meant to mimic insect hovering at the surface of the water. They require quite a lot of skill to produce a natural movement that fish will be attracted to.
- Add a lure. Tie your line to your reel using an Arbor knot. Tie your lure, hook, or fly using either a Unit knot, Improved clinch knot, or Palomar knot.[3] You may also try a Surgeon's knot to tie two lines together or a Surgeon's End Loop to add a pre-made snelled hook.[4]
 - Tie an Arbor knot by using the tag end of your line to wrap around the arbor end of your spool. Then take the standing part with the tag end and tie an overhand knot, much like you would when starting to tie a shoelace. Move a couple inches and tie another overhand knot from the tag end. You want the first knot to slide down to the spool as you pull the standing part of the line to butt the second knot against it. Close the tag end by trimming the line.[5]
- The Uni knot is the easiest tackle knot. Thread your line through your hook and make sure it is parallel to the standing line as you double back. Lay the tag end over the double line to create a loop. Take the tag end around the double line six time and through the loop. Pull the tag end to ensure the turns are snug. Push the knot down towards the eye to finish.[6]
- The Improved clinch knot is the most popular knot used to fish. Place the line through your hook and create 5 or more turns as you double back around the standing line. Take the end of the line and thread it back through the first loop behind the eye of the hook and thread it through the large loop you just created. Tighten the coils by pulling on the tag end. Push the knot tight against the eye and snip the tag end closed.[7]
- The Palomar knot is considered to be the strongest knot. Fold 6 inches of line to create double the thickness and thread the loop end through your hook. Tie an overhand knot loosely keeping the hook at the bottom, letting it hang. Use your thumb and forefinger to hold the knot as you pass the loop over your hook. Move the loop so that it is above the eye of the hook. Simultaneously pull both the tag end and the standing line to tighten the knot onto the eye of your hook. Trip the tag end closed.[8]
- Bait a fishing line. Choosing live bait will depend on the type of fish. The size of your hook will also be determined by the size of the fish that you're to catch.[9] Basically, thread your hook through your bait at 2 points to secure it from falling off or at the thick portion closest to its head. You want to place your hook at the head and through a thick portion of the body. For example, if you are using a worm thread your hook close to the head and tail.
- If you are using fish as bait, make sure that the hook goes through the head and jaw because that will be the primary strike point of your fish.
- Choosing a good bait depends on the type of fish and type of water. For example, if you're fishing for freshwater fish in rivers, crawfish and worms may be a good choice for bait.
- Cast out. Casting can be done depending on the weather conditions and the location. While there are a variety of techniques, it will take practice to get your cast efficient and consistent.[10][11] Choose these methods based on the distance you're hoping to achieve[12]:
- An overhead cast is best used when you want a lot of distance. Hold down the button for the casting reel with your thumb as you bring the rod back. In a single motion propel the rod forward and release your thumb. Push the button again to prevent your line from tangling by slowing down your spool.
- Pitching should be employed when you are trying to cast close at about the 10 yard range. Let out some slack line by holding your rod up and making the lure move down to meet the reel. Using your non-dominant hand, grab the lure. Use your dominant hand to press the button on your reel. Keep your line taut as you bring the lure back and drop the tip of the rod. In a single swooping motion, raise the tip of the rod to pull the lure from your non-dominant hand. Use your thumb to slow down the line to ensure you don't go past your short distance.
- Reel in your fish. There are a variety of different reels that you can purchase but the 3 basics are the spincaster, baitcaster, and spinning reel.[13]
- Most people start with the spincaster. It is a push-button reel that is simple enough to let you focus on casting technique.[14]
- Baitcaster is also a push-button reel but gives you more control as the button locks in place once pushed down. It requires you to use your thumb on the spool to control the speed of the lure. This reel works well when trying to get fish out of thick water.[15]
- Spinning reels have an open-face and the rod will be parallel to their spools of line. These work well when casting light crankbaits, drop-shot rigs, jerkbaits, and weightless soft plastics.[16]
[Edit]Using Freshwater Fishing Rods - Choose a rod based on what you're fishing and the location.[17] Rods vary in width, flexibility, and length. Flexibility is known as action and rods must have enough to absorb the tension of the type of fish that you are catching once it strikes. If you're fishing at a location with a lot of debris than you must choose a rod able to withstand movement through the debris.[18]
- Fiberglass fishing rods are best paired with crank baits, jerk baits, reaction baits, and treble hooks.
- Carbon-fiber fishing rods are great if you are a professional level fisherman as they work best with precision casting.
- To get more fight out of bigger fish or when casting for smaller ones, use an ultra-light fishing rod for more flex. These rods usually range from 4 - 5.5 feet in length and are paired best with casting lures and flies to catch crappie, trout, bass, bluegill, and other panfish.
- Employ spinning rods for still fishing with live bait or for trolling. Choose spinning rods made from graphite or fiberglass with a cork or PVC foam handle. Choose a length between 5 - 8.5 feet when fishing bass, trout, pike and walleye. Longer spinning rods should be used when casting with two hands for fish including steelhead and salmon.[19]
- The spinning reel hangs under the rod unlike bait casting or spin casting rods.
- Work bait-casting and closed-spin casting rods. These rods work best when using fishing reels that are mounted above the handle. Made of graphite or fiberglass with a cork or pvc foam handle, these rods are very similar to spinning rods. They can be anywhere from 5 - 8.5 feet in length. Use longer rods with a longer grip for two-handed casting when fishing steelhead or salmon.
- Use larger rods when fishing with larger bait and for larger fish.
- Fish with telescopic fishing rods for larger fish. Designed to either shorten or expand, telescopic rods range anywhere from 20 - 30 feet in length but can be collapsed down to as short as 1.5 feet. Choose telescopic rods made out of graphite, fiberglass, or composite material to ensure both durability and flexibility. Each section is designed to fit into another section while keeping the structural integrity of the rod.[20]
- Telescopic rods are meant for easy transport. Make sure you follow proper maintenance procedures including using tip covers for each section of the rod when transporting. The sections should close easier if they are shorter in length. More sections translate into better weight and stress distribution that can create a farther cast and less breakage when you are involved with a stronger fish.
[Edit]Using Saltwater Fishing Rods - Consider the length, power and action of your rod. These factors will be based on the type of fish that you want to catch. Short rods provide power for fish that give more fight while longer rods cast further. The power of a rod is how much weight in can lift, from light to extra heavy. Rods can also be chosen based on the weight of the lure or the pound-test line that they are designed to be paired with.
- Choose a graphite rod if you want a stiff yet sensitive experience and a fiberglass rod for a tough and powerful one.[21]
- Reels are classified as high or low speed where the latter is used when needing more power to fight large fish. Some reels allow you to push a button to switch between high and low speed.
- Utilize a spinning rod and reel when casting lighter lures and baits. Spinning rod and reels work well with top-water poppers and high-speed plugs. Use your dominant hand to hold the rod as you use your other hand to crank the handle.[22]
- Make sure you change the handle of your rod depending on which is your dominant hand.
- Spool the line by laying the rod on the floor and ensure that the line is going onto the reel at the same direction that the line is leaving the spool. Pinch the line and crank the reel handle a dozen times. With a slack line, drop the tip of the rod to check if the line starts to twist and spin. If it does, you have spooled the line in the wrong direction. Flip the spool over and continue in the right direction as you fill the reel.
- Employ baitcasting rods and reels. These rods work best when bottom fishing, jigging, long casting, or when using big baits. Use an open-face reel for casing or jigging to let out and retrieve the line quickly. Use a closed face reel when using lighter lures and baits. Make sure to use your thumb to control the speed of the spool and keep it slow.[23]
- Baitcasting rods easily get tangled because the spool turns faster than the line as it leaves the rod. If the tangle isn't too bad you may be able to untangle it by pulling more line off the reel. However, most baitcasting reel have either a centrifugal, magnetic, or electronic cast control to keep your line from getting tangled.
- Work a saltwater trolling rod for larger fish. Saltwater trolling rods carry a lot of line and their large bodies allow them to take extreme pressure for fighting large fish. These rods are shorter and stronger than casting rods. They may also come with a notched butt for a fighting belt or chair. Rods that are longer with a short butt are meant for use with a fighting belt or chair.[24]
- Pair the rod with an appropriate line-test where a 20 pound rod and line combo works for sailfish, dolphin and marlin. Use 130 pound rod and line combo for billfish and bluefin tuna.
- Use saltwater jigging rods and reels. These rods work best for either hovering over a target or to retrieve your line at high speeds. Use specialized tackle to work your lure at the correct speed, either very quickly or slowly depending on the fish. Use vertical jigging with high-speed rods and metal lures for fast retrieval. In contrast, use rubber jigs to hover over the target or for slow, deliberate retrieval.[25]
[Edit]Using Ice Fishing Rods - Choose the right length. Ice fishing rods are typically shorter than freshwater or saltwater rods. They vary in length from 24 - 36 inches. You will need to choose the size of your rod based on the thickness of the ice and type of fish that you are fishing for.[26]
- Decide on the right material. Ice fishing requires a very sensitive rod. Fish are not very active in cold water so you need a rod that is both able to withstand the harsh weather conditions and be flexible and sensitive enough to indicate when you have a bite. Look for graphite or fiberglass rods.[27]
- The type of fish that you are planning to catch will also determine how sensitive and flexible you want your rod. For example, panfish require a rod that is very light whereas game fish, like Northern pike, need a heavier rod.
- Match your line with your rod and spool.[28] Choose a spinning reel or a spring tension spool with a line to match your rod. For example, if you are using a lightweight rod, use a lightweight line. You may also use a fly reel instead of a spinning reel.[29]
- A fly reel has less line to twist relative to the spinning reel.
- Use tip-ups instead of a rod. A tip-up is a device that dangles bait beneath the ice. It lets you know when a bite happens with a flag set above the ice. The device is similar to a rod in that it uses a reel that is submerged under water. A fish takes the bait and turns the reel which releases the flag to signal that you have a strike.[30]
- Tip-ups are usually made of wood and some are circular to fit over your hole and prevent it from freezing over. Use a heavy line when using a tip-up with braided line for larger fish like walleye.
- Use both tip-ups and a spinning rod to increase your chances. Setup two holes at different locations. Make sure the locations are close enough for you to react in case you have two bites but far enough that they give more opportunities for multiple strikes. Use your spinning rod to jig in one hole as your monitor your tip up.[31]
- Jigging means that use a special device -- a jig -- to produce a jerking up and down motion as it moves through the water. The jerking motion is meant to illicit the strike reflex of certain types of fish.
- Settle on the correct bait. Both live and artificial baits will work for ice fishing. For artificial baits you may choose banana jigs, and teardrop jigs. For live bait you may try worms, bee mother larva, maggots, fly larvae, mayfly larvae, or minnows. Slowly jig the bait for whichever bait you choose.[32]
[Edit]Using Fly Fishing Rods - Create a budget. Fly fishing rods are as good as you pay for so it's important to know how often you will be using your rod and what skill level you are at before purchasing a fly fishing rod. While high-performance rods can help you, it may be helpful to wait until your casting skills have improved in order to reap the full benefits of an expensive rod.
- Choose a rod based on your experience. Beginners can choose inexpensive rods made of graphite, fiberglass, or bamboo. Price will reflect better materials and high-performance rods are better suited for experienced fisherman or people who plan to fly fish often.[33]
- High quality rods can make casting easier which is imperative when fly fishing.
- Fly rods may come in 2, 3, or 4 pieces. Most beginners use a 2 piece while more seasoned fisherman use a 4 piece as it can be broken down and easily carried on airplanes.
- Learn proper technique. Cast the line to mimic the movement of live prey. The presentation of your lure will depend on the type of fish with the rod and line working seamlessly to create specific movements.[34]
- Movements can range from mimicking insects to frogs.
- Select the length of the rod based on your location. Use 6 - 8 foot fly rods for fishing in smaller streams with a lot of brush. Move up to 9 foot rods when fishing in big rivers. The longer the rod, the more control you have over your line.[35]
- Use a larger line and rod for larger fish. The larger the fly, the heavier it is and the heavier the line you will need in order to deliver it. A larger rod ensures a smooth cast with heavier lures.[36]
- Beginners should use 1 - 8 weight for trout, 6-10 weight for bass, and 5 weight for panfish.
- Ensure that the fly fishing line is designed for your rod. Fly rods are designed to only cast a certain weight of line. For example, only use a 6-weight line with a 6-weight rod. Check the rod information that's printed above the cork grip to choose the corresponding weighted line.[37]
- Different manufacturers will place the weight information on different locations on the rod and may have unique codes. Make sure to consult the manufacturer if you cannot find the pertinent information.
- Choose the right bait. The bait you choose will depend on the location and type of fish. Find the closest fly shop to the location that you will be fishing at and ask the sales staff what they would recommend.[38]
- Each time you change locations, research what bait has been successful for the type of fish you plan on catching.
- Certain types and sizes of fish are illegal to catch. If you catch one that is out of season or seems to be too small, throw it back. Always check with the local gaming and fisheries authorities.
[Edit]Warnings - Check whether you need to obtain a license to fish in your area. Certain types of fish may be illegal to catch depending on the time of year or location.
- When fishing for larger fish make sure to exercise proper precautions. Lack of proper equipment and preparation can lead to serious injury or worse.
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