Saltwater fishing encompasses everything from deep-sea and inshore fishing to pier and jetty angling. You may pack up your gear for a quiet weekend of fishing among the hills and shallows of a bay, or you may cast your line into the flats and inlets hugging a coastline. The type of saltwater fishing you choose dictates the kind of gear you will need to land the perfect catch.
Rods and Reels
You need a rod and reel for saltwater fishing, though the type that you should use depends on the type of saltwater fishing that you choose, such as medium surf or pier and jetty saltwater fishing. The “Salt Water Fishing Tactics” guide recommends varying rods and reels according to the strength of the surf. For example, use a heavy 11- to 12-foot spinning rod with parabolic action if you are casting in the heavy surf found along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Select a 7- to 8-foot spinning rod with light action for the quieter surf of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Lures and Terminal Tackle
Saltwater fishing also necessitates a variety of lures and terminal tackle, including fishing line, hooks, sinkers, bait and rigs. The “Salt Water Fishing Tactics” guide suggests using top water plugs as well as medium swimming lures that have saltwater finishes, such as mackerel, for heavier surfs. Terminal tackle sinkers and rigs, including fish-finder rigs, can also prove helpful. For quieter surfs, the guide suggests choosing smaller jigs, lipless rattling crankbaits and soft-plastic grub tails. If you cast from a pier or jetty, you may find that appropriate-sized top water chuggers and metal casting spoons prove effective.
Tools and Equipment
You need saltwater-specific tools and equipment to manage your catch, including gaffs and nets, pliers and scissors, knives and hook removers. The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, in the article “Saltwater Fishing Tools,” recommends aluminum-handled fishing gaffs, with nonslip grips, and rubber mesh landing nets that match the size of the fish you desire to catch. Look for stainless steel or titanium multitools that have pliers and scissors for tightening knots, replacing hooks, and cutting lines and wires, as well as other saltwater fishing tasks. Remember steel knives and hook removers for removing hooks and preparing bait or fish.
Clothing and Accessories
The right clothing and accessories help you to survive the extreme weather and outdoor conditions associated with saltwater fishing. The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation suggests PVC attire, such as bibs or overalls, along with reinforced saltwater waders, as essential saltwater fishing garments. Loose-fitting, full-coverage clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunblock will help to protect you from sunburn and sun glare off the water during warmer weather. Choose warm, breathable undergarments and well-insulated, water-resistant outerwear, as well as neoprene gloves for your hands, to stay warm during colder weather.
References
- “Salt Water Fishing Tactics: Learn from the Experts at Salt Water Magazine”; Creative Publishing International, Editors of Creative Publishing; 1999
- Take Me Fishing: Saltwater Fishing Gear
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