Fishing for Beginners — Tips & What You Need to Know Before

So, You Want to Try Fishing? Karibu! You are not alone. For many of us, fishing seems like something only seasoned pros do. But trust me, anyone can learn to enjoy it! You don’t need to be an expert. You don’t need fancy gear. You don’t even need to know the difference between a fly rod and a spinning reel (yet). All you need is the willingness to try, to listen, to let go of the noise for a while, practice patience, presence, and find that perfect quiet spot. And here, in the heart of Kenya's Central Highlands, on the tranquil Mathioya River, you'll find just that.

Sometimes, life can feel like it’s moving too fast. One day, you are replying to emails at 7am, and before you know it, you’re chasing deadlines, navigating traffic, reading heavy news, and trying to keep it all together. Then you blink, and months have passed.

Maybe what your body and mind really need isn’t another weekend in the city, but something slower. Quieter. Something as simple and soothing as sitting by a river, holding a fishing rod in your hand, and listening to nothing but birds, the flowing water, and your own breathing, remembering who you are. If you’ve never tried fishing before, welcome. This post is for you. But why fishing? Because it’s not just about catching fish. It’s about slowing down, being still, and learning the art of waiting — something this fast world rarely teaches us anymore. Fishing reminds us that not everything has to be instant. Some things, like peace, take time to reel in.

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What You Need to Know (No Pressure, Just Fun!)

Here are a few basic tips if you’re new to fishing:

1. It's About the Peace, Not Just the Catch — This is probably the most important tip. Don't go out expecting to fill a bucket on your first try! The magic of fishing, especially for beginners, is in the quiet moments. It’s the sound of the river flowing, the fresh mountain air filling your lungs, the gentle tug of the line, and the sheer joy of being away from everything. It's truly a form of moving meditation.

2. Respect the Water & Wildlife — Always remember to leave no trace. If you're practicing catch-and-release, handle the fish gently. Our waterways are precious, let's keep them that way! Be part of the environment, not a disruption to it.

3. Find a Good Spot (Like the Mathioya River!) — Location is key. The Mathioya River, right here in Murang'a County, is known for its clear waters and offers a serene environment perfect for beginners. The gentle flow and the stunning backdrop of the Aberdare Ranges make for an unforgettable experience, whether the fish are biting or not.

4. Patience is Your Best Friend — This is where fishing teaches you invaluable life lessons. Some days the fish are eager, some days they’re shy. Learn to enjoy the waiting. It’s in those quiet moments that you truly unwind and disconnect from the crazy fast pace of daily life.

5. Listen to Local Wisdom — Our local fishing experts and guides have known these waters for generations. Don’t hesitate to ask for tips on the best spots, what bait to use, where the trout like to hide on hot afternoons, or even just stories about the river. They are a wealth of knowledge!

6. Practice Catch and Release — Unless you’re planning to cook your catch for lunch (a beautiful experience by the way, for when the fish is mature enough), make sure to release the fish gently back into the river. It helps preserve our ecosystem and makes sure future visitors get the same joy. The rivers here aren’t just for photos — they are part of us. Fed by the Aberdare Forests and winding through the valleys of Murang’a, they carry stories, culture, and life. They’re clean, cold, and full of rainbow trout and other freshwater species.

7. Dress for Nature — Carry a hat/cap, sunscreen, a light jacket, and wear comfortable shoes. The weather here in the Aberdare Ranges can change quickly; sunny one moment, misty the next. But that’s the beauty of these highlands.

8. Keep It Simple (Gear-Wise) — You don't need to break the bank. For starters, a basic fishing rod, some line, a few hooks, and perhaps some simple bait (our guides can always help with this!) are more than enough. If you’re visiting a place like our Aberdare Cottages & Fishing Lodge, chances are we can even help you out with some basic equipment to get you started! Don’t overcomplicate it because you’re not here to win anything per se, just to learn, breathe, and maybe catch your dinner if you're lucky.

• Rod & Reel — For trout fishing, a lightweight fly rod and reel are ideal. Don't worry, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Many places, including ours, can help you with rentals or even provide basic gear if you're just trying it out.
• Line & Leader — This is what connects your reel to your fly. Learning about different lines can come later; for now, just know that a properly set-up line is crucial.
• Flies (Bait for Fly Fishing) — These are artificial lures designed to mimic insects that fish eat. There are so many types! Some popular beginner flies for trout include 'dry flies' (which float on the surface) or 'nymphs' (which sink). It's fascinating how a tiny, feathery creation can fool a fish!
• Waders/Boots — If you plan to get into the water, waterproof boots or waders will keep you dry and comfortable. The mountain rivers can get very cold!

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Whether you’re coming alone to scream into the forest, finding peace with a loved one, or a group of friends or colleagues looking to unplug together, showing your kids how to fish for the first time, or planning a different kind of team-building day, fishing offers a shared silence that says more than any conversation ever could, as there’s space for you here. Kenya is going through a lot right now, let’s be honest. The stress, the economy, the politics, the price of things...it all weighs heavily, and sometimes it’s easy to feel like you’re running on empty, just trying to keep your head above water. Fishing, in a place like this, won’t fix everything, but it might remind you of what really matters.

Imagine standing by a crystal-clear river, the only sounds being the gentle murmur of the water and the occasional bird call. The scent of fresh mountain air fills your lungs, and a feeling of calm washes over you. This isn't just a dream; it's what awaits you when you discover the simple joy of fishing in Kenya's beautiful central highlands. So, if the unpredictable world outside is getting a bit too much, and you're craving that feeling of calm, of connecting with nature, why not try your hand at fishing? It’s a wonderful way to take a day off.

So go ahead and bookmark this, or share it with someone who’s been feeling the pressure build. Someone who needs a reason to take a break and come back to themselves.

Happy fishing! 🎣