You can get closer to the fish by sailing in your karve, longboat, or raft to the middle of the school. Carry some small or medium stamina meads with you in case you hook a large fish. The first forsaken power you earn helps with stamina drain you can set it up to use. Make sure that you have your rested bonus active.

When the fish strikes your lure you can see and hear a plop. If you press the mouse button at exactly that time you will get the hooked message and can begin reeling in your catch.