The trout fishing in reservoir called "area" originates from Japan. It offers the possibility to catch salmonids in closed water. The goal is above all to have fun and to release the fish. Through these rules and the particularity of these artificial environments, the area takes all its originality. Let's see the different rules of the area.
Single hook without barb
First of all, you must catch the fish and release them quickly, limiting handling. The single hook without barbs is THE basic rule for fishing salmonids in reservoirs in the area. It is mandatory in all area competitions.
This rule is far from trivial, because it alone allows us to understand other aspects concerning the equipment to be used for the area. The rods are very flexible to absorb the movements of trout and the reels are small with low ratios for maximum control. The hooks themselves are the object of a high technicality in their design to adapt to the different lures used.
The "releaser" is a kind of hook with a handle that allows you to unhook the trout in the water and that goes hand in hand with the use of a simple hook without barb.
Handling reduced to a minimum
Area fishing aims at catching as many fish as possible in a short period of time. In addition to the obligation to release the fish quickly in a perfect condition, there are rules for handling them.
Thus, the use of a landing net is mandatory. The net must have a rubber or coated net to limit the abrasive character. The net, with the fish inside, must never come into contact with the ground. It is even recommended to put the fish in the net and to take it out directly in the water to unhook it with a releaser, a tool mentioned above, for a maximum saving of time!
The lures allowed for fishing in area
The list of usable lures is very limited, which really pushes to innovate with very strong constraints. Spinning lures, such as micro spinner baits, are almost forbidden everywhere in Japan. In France, they are forbidden in competition.
The size of the lures is also regulated. Not more than 10 centimeters! The area must remain a light and subtle fishing. We understand why the rods are L or UL very light.
These rules allow for the best preservation of fish in tanks and allow brands to innovate within a very strict framework, which pushes for creativity to stand out.
