Need inspiration to take a saltwater fishing trip? Get suggestions for three exciting spots, along with advice regarding rigs, reels and bait. You never know what you might hook!
If you are like me and live in one of the 27 states that lack a saltwater coastline, it is an exciting treat for the chance to cast into the “big pond.” Because time is limited while vacationing to one of the states that occupy a front row seat to the ocean, it may be wise to hire a guide or at least do some research beforehand to have an idea of what to expect because not all saltwater fishing is the same.
My Favorite Saltwater Fishing Locations
Alaska. Deep, and cold (of course), anglers visiting this magnificent state can be treated to species such as the highly prized salmon and giant bottom hugging halibut. Saltwater rigs and methods can differ greatly. A saltwater salmon angler may get an introduction to a “mooching reel” while trolling. Halibut anglers will use heavy weights to rocket bait to the ocean floor quickly in the current.
Texas. The Port Aransas area is just one of many access points bustling with fishing activity. Boats can be chartered for mackerel or sharpnose sharks or you can fish off jetties for redfish and black drum. By watching locals on these jetties, I learned a saltwater rig of using a large float, but an even larger weight. This submerges the bait to the bottom, but holds the line vertically off the rocks.
South Carolina. It is difficult to drag me out of casting in the surf. With an 11ft spinning rod, a medium sinker, and frozen shrimp or squid, small bluefish, jacks, and such abound. In the intercoastal waterways you might land a flounder or a spotted seatrout.
Plan Your Saltwater Fishing Tackle Needs
When planning your saltwater fishing trip, look up the fish in that area at that time of year. Many fish can be caught with standard bass fishing tackle but other species and conditions may require gear more specific. Then, be sure to visit the local tackle store to help you get close to the right bait, hook size, and of course your fishing license. You just never know what you might hook in saltwater.
My Favorite Saltwater Fishing Locations
Alaska. Deep, and cold (of course), anglers visiting this magnificent state can be treated to species such as the highly prized salmon and giant bottom hugging halibut. Saltwater rigs and methods can differ greatly. A saltwater salmon angler may get an introduction to a “mooching reel” while trolling. Halibut anglers will use heavy weights to rocket bait to the ocean floor quickly in the current.
Texas. The Port Aransas area is just one of many access points bustling with fishing activity. Boats can be chartered for mackerel or sharpnose sharks or you can fish off jetties for redfish and black drum. By watching locals on these jetties, I learned a saltwater rig of using a large float, but an even larger weight. This submerges the bait to the bottom, but holds the line vertically off the rocks.
South Carolina. It is difficult to drag me out of casting in the surf. With an 11ft spinning rod, a medium sinker, and frozen shrimp or squid, small bluefish, jacks, and such abound. In the intercoastal waterways you might land a flounder or a spotted seatrout.
Plan Your Saltwater Fishing Tackle Needs
When planning your saltwater fishing trip, look up the fish in that area at that time of year. Many fish can be caught with standard bass fishing tackle but other species and conditions may require gear more specific. Then, be sure to visit the local tackle store to help you get close to the right bait, hook size, and of course your fishing license. You just never know what you might hook in saltwater.
