Going Fishing

Going Fishing is a racing instruction technique where a driver intentionally backs off from the car ahead to create a gap, then practices closing that gap and potentially overtaking later on the track.

This term comes from the world of motorsport instruction and driver coaching. Just like a fisherman casts out their line and reels it back in, a driver "casts" by letting the car ahead pull away, then "reels in" by catching back up. It's a deliberate training exercise rather than a racing mistake.

Instructors typically use Going Fishing when they're coaching a faster driver who's stuck behind a slower car during a track day or practice session. Instead of sitting right on the slower car's bumper and potentially causing frustration or safety issues, the instructor tells the student to drop back and create some breathing room.

The purpose of this technique is multi-layered. First, it allows the faster driver to maintain their own rhythm and optimal racing line without being disrupted by the car ahead. Second, it creates opportunities to practice the skill of closing a gap smoothly and efficiently. Third, it helps drivers learn racecraft—the art of catching and passing other cars in real-world conditions.

When Going Fishing, a driver might back off by several car lengths or even a few seconds. The exact distance depends on the track, the speed difference between the cars, and what the instructor wants to teach. The key is creating enough space that both drivers can drive their own race without interfering with each other.

Once the gap is established, the faster driver then works on reeling in the slower car. This teaches important skills like managing tire temperatures, finding the optimal racing line, and identifying overtaking opportunities. It's practice for real race situations where you need to catch a competitor who has a lead.

This fishing technique is especially common at track days and driving schools where cars of different speeds share the track. It keeps everyone safe and learning while preventing the frustration of being held up or the pressure of being tailgated. Both drivers benefit—the faster one gets practice in gap management, and the slower one can focus on their own driving without distraction.

The term reflects the patience required in motorsport. Just as fishing requires waiting for the right moment, racing often requires strategic patience rather than aggressive moves that might end badly for everyone involved.