Onshore fishing refers to fishing from the shoreline or from a boat that’s in proximity to the shoreline. Typically, fishing from the beach or the bank targets fish residing in deeper pockets hunting food sources that are retreating to the shallows. Onshore fishing from a boat targets fish that lurk under shallow cover and hunt food sources moving to deeper water. Set one or more poles for onshore fishing using rod holders and the correct drag setting on the fishing reels.
Shoreline
Step 1
Set up one or more sand spikes or lake bank rod holders when you fish from the shoreline. This type of rod holder has a pointed tip at the bottom of the shaft that you press into the sand or the bank. The fishing pole is held in a tubular holder at the upper section of the shaft.
Step 2
Plant sand spikes at least 20 feet from the surf line, and deep enough into the sand so they're stable. Plant lake bank holders at least 4 feet from the water’s edge in firm ground.
Step 3
Cast the bait and set the fishing pole in the holder. Grip the fishing line just in front of the spool with your thumb and two fingers. Pull line off the spool to test the drag setting of the reel. A drag that’s set too tight can cause the hook to pull out of the fish’s mouth.
Step 4
Adjust the drag on your spinning reels by turning the drag knob on the top of the spool to the right or left so line pulls off the spool with moderate tension. Adjust the drag on your casting reels by turning the star knob at the base of the reel handle either way, as needed, for moderate tension.
Boat
Step 1
Mount one or more accessory rod holders on the gunwale, or upper edge, at either side of the boat. Accessory holders have a base plate with a knob that you tighten to secure the holder. Skip this step if the boat has permanent rod holders installed on the gunwales.
Step 2
Cast your bait toward the shoreline, and allow the sinker to hit bottom. Take up the slack in the fishing line, then set the fishing pole in the rod holder.
Step 3
Test the drag tension on your reels using your thumb and two fingers to pull line from the reel spool. Adjust each drag to moderate tension using the knob on a spinning reel or the star knob on a casting reel.
Tips and Warnings
- Install a portable rod holder on your kayak for onshore fishing in marinas or lakes.
Things You'll Need
- Sand spike or lake bank rod holder
- Portable rod holder
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