More than 15 million Americans count saltwater fishing among their favorite hobbies, according to Discover Boating. Fishing in salty or brackish water gives you the opportunity to catch big game fish like tuna or marlin in their natural environment. Before you get started, take the time to choose appropriate tackle that's designed to meet the challenges of the saltwater environment.
Rods
Choose saltwater fishing rods based on where you plan to fish and what type of game you're targeting. Stick with the traditional spin rod if you plan to catch small species, as these rods make it easy to reel in your fish and recast. A surfcasting rod is designed for fishing in the ocean and is longer and more durable than the spin rod so it can be cast out past the waves. Discover Boating recommends a surfcasting rod measuring 15 feet or longer if you plan to fish for big game. Some anglers are also turning to fly rods for some types of saltwater fishing. The fly rod is long and flexible, allowing you to cast your bait at a distance. Because these rods are fairly thin, however, they won't work for larger saltwater species like marlin or tuna.
While fiberglass rods tend to cost less than graphite ones, according to Discover Boating, graphite weighs less and offers a higher level of response to improve your catch rates.
The Washington Department of Natural Resources recommends trolling with a downrigger. The downrigger works with your rod to keep bait at a set depth as you troll.
Reels
Traditional spinning reels are easy to use and offer a solid choice for beginners. Spin cast reels resemble the spinning reel, but feature specially designed casing to minimize tangled lines around piers or brackish water. Fly reels work to store the line, not necessarily to reel in the fish, making them best-suited to small game.
When choosing reels for saltwater, focus on corrosion-resistant materials like anodized aluminum, galvanized steel or bronze. Saltwater and sea air can quickly rust standard reels, rendering them ineffective or unusable. Choose a reel with sealed bearings to ensure last-lasting operation.
Bait
Attract big game in saltwater using live, local bait. Discover Boating recommends bloodworms, clams, crabs, eel and squid for best results. Keep bait fresh and replace it regularly, placing the cut side of the bait oriented out away from the hook to attract fish. If you prefer artificial bait, try trolling lures for catching big game, or use hard baits and buck tails around piers, canals and brackish water.
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