Love fishing? Whether you prefer to do it in the calm, shallow salt waters or the wide, open seas, saltwater fishing can be an engaging experience. But before you head out to the waters on your boat, you need to plan it a little.
You need to select the location, find the right boat and equipment and practice the techniques. But before you head out, make sure you have your boat licence; otherwise, you’ll be in for a lot of trouble.
Let’s try to focus on the points you need to keep in mind to enjoy your saltwater fishing trip.
Where to fish?
Before you head out, research about the area you wish to fish. Reefs, holes, pockets, channels and such other spots are good choices. Don’t rely solely on a map that shows the best locations for saltwater fishing!
- Time – find out which times in the day are ideal for finding fish
- Sun and moon phases – these affect the spots where fish can be found
- Tides – ebb tides are ideal for saltwater fishing; aim for the time the tides is from half rising to half falling
- Wind and weather – these affect the migration patterns of the fish
After you have done your research, you’ll have a good idea about the best destination for your saltwater fishing trip. These details will also help you decide on which fish to aim for – the dainty trout, the popular bass or the monstrous marlin.
Which boat to choose?
Well, this depends on the exact purpose you want it to serve. If you are an enthusiast of sport fishing, a boat specifically designed for the intention will be ideal. But it won’t do if you want to enjoy other activities too.
Inboard cruisers are best if you want to have a happy holiday out on the open waters with your family and friends and want to indulgent in some fishing too. Again, if your idea of fun is participating in all kinds of water activities, you need to opt for a fish and ski boat.
What equipment do you need?
Whether you are fishing in the quiet coastal waters or the tumultuous deep seas, the success, and the fun, you have is dependent on your choice of fishing gear and tackle. Rods, reels, nets, pliers, every piece needs to be selected carefully.
Keep in mind that the saltwater has an adverse effect on your gear. And the saltwater fish can be brutal too. It’s best to opt for best quality, non-corrosive pieces made from UV resistant materials. And do ensure proper storage and maintenance of the equipment.
Also, get the right clothing for the trip. If you are fishing out in the open, dab on sunscreen to avoid skin trouble. Check the electronics onboard to make sure you the VHF radio, radar and GPS are working. It may save you if there’s an emergency.
How to prepare for the trip?
For beginners, it’s best to keep to the coastal waters. Take someone who knows about saltwater fishing. Chalk out your itinerary. And have a little patience. Moving from one spot to another isn’t always the best way to get some fish.
Remember, practice makes perfect. So, whether you are planning to catch the fish and keep it, or catch and release, you need to practice hard. Only after months of practice will you become a good angler. Don’t expect overnight perfection; it’s not magic!
Why is safety to importent
Next is the question of safety. While you will learn the basics of safety from your initial boat licence course, it will be even better if you can take a specialised course to learn about marine radios. You need to keep other things in mind too:
- Let someone know about your itinerary
- Keep safety equipment handy
- Drive your boat carefully
- Don’t indulge in alcohol while you are out in the waters
- Use common sense
With a little planning, your trip to catch saltwater fish on your boat can be a pleasurable experience. Be it with your family and friends or with a group of anglers, an amazing adventure awaits. So, what are you waiting for? Plan it now!
