It definitely can be that easy, yes. My most successful day was just a hook (no bait) off the side of the boat while we just let the line hang.
That being said, you can learn the local varieties of fish, their preferences for different kinds of bait, and you can explore your local area for good fishing spots.
If you have the option, there’s probably a 90 year old Korea vet who will tell you the arcane arts of catching swordfish in the rockies somewhere.
It’s still illegal, you just aren’t super likely to get caught without the assistance of your state government.