Saltwater Fishing: Starting Out

Saltwater fishing offers something for everyone. You can fish from the shore, the pier, a little boat or go offshore in one of the charter boats. With all the choices available you can pretty much go saltwater fishing no matter your age or physical condition.

Growing up in New England has shown me much of what the sport has to offer. Here I'm going to share some of the types of saltwater fishing so you can think about which one you want to try.

License requirements vary so check before you go. I'd hate for you to have to surrender your catch to the local authorities. (My wife says that's not surrendering, but I tell you watching guys have to give up a hard won catch is surrender!)

Pier Fishing

You've all seen pictures of people sitting alongside a long pier jutting out into the ocean. Pier fishing is a good place to start. The skill level ranges from beginner to experienced pro. I like pier fishing because of the friendliness of the people.

Depending on the pier there may be a day charge to fish there or it may be free. Call the local government office to find out. You can also check online for the city or town as they frequently post information about fishing from their pier. Also you can find what type of fish are running in the area. Besides your rod, reel, bait and other fishing tackle you're going to need some other fishing gear. I generally bring along a cooler with drinks and snacks, sunblock, hat, camera and bug repellent. To move this all I've got a wagon which can double as a seat if needed.

Surf Fishing

From Maine to Florida and Texas too, surf fishing is a great adventure. When you've fished blues when they're in a feed frenzy you have an experience you'll never forget. My Granddad, Dad, brother and I used to head to the shore every fall for the running of the blues. Bluefish are a great experience.

Your saltwater fishing tackle is going to depend on the type of fish you're going for. Bait can either be live, cut or lures. You'll have an extra long rods, with spinning reel and spikes to hold the rods. Oh and don't forget the cooler with drinks and food. It's a long way to the car and the parking lot.

Inshore Fishing

Now some people prefer sitting while they fish and inshore fishing is just that. You get a small boat, some people even use kayaks and fish in a protected bay or inlet. Your saltwater fishing tackle is going to depend on your desired catch. Just don't forget the life jacket, sunglasses, sunblock, hat and stock your cooler. It can get hot very quickly on the water. Also stay out of navigation channels, big boats and ships often cannot see you.

Charter Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea or offshore fishing is the equivalent of leave the driving to us. Depending on the boat size, there's generally about 6 or 8 other people fishing with you. The fish you catch are going to depend on the season and location. You can come back with tuna, marlin, swordfish or shark. You'll have the opportunity to try trolling or bottom fishing. Many charters only require you bring money, stocked cooler, sunblock, hat and a jacket to go out. They furnish the rest of the saltwater gear.

Check out the reputation of the charter before you go out. The experience of the crew will make a difference in your success and safety.

If you’re starting out in saltwater fishing, I know you’re going to want to get lots of information so you can make good decisions when buying your saltwater fishing tackle. That’s the beauty of being online. There’s lots of great saltwater fishing articles.

You can find out information about particular fishing locations and tips from experts and beginners alike. So whether you’re following the mehaden in search of bluefish on the Cape, in Texas with the redfish or on the coast of Louisiana with the speckled trout, saltwater fishing offers a challenge and sport level for everyone.

When you read saltwater fishing articles you not only learn different techniques and places to fish you also find reviews on equipment, guides and charters. Plus you can’t beat the advice especially if you’re just starting out.

It’s a virtual treasure chest ready to open. I’ve found online saltwater fishing articles are great when I can’t narrow my choices down about a particular type of lure or location. All you need is a little bit of time, computer, and an internet connection.

You can find blogs, stories from fishermen (and women!) who are out there fishing, you’ll hear about their experiences about various locations, seasons and requirement. Everytime I move that mouse I get excited about getting out and fishing in a new location. With the ability to talk with people through blogs you can get your questions answered and even arrange to meet some fellow anglers for a day of fishing.

Just proves saltwater fishing articles can open the door to more fun, better catches and great information on saltwater fishing.