Saltwater sport fishing is a very special segment of the fishing sport, and it is a very different application from freshwater fishing. In saltwater fishing, the target fish are typically much larger, you are hunting for your catch in a very different environment from a freshwater application, and you may find yourself miles from land for long periods of time without the coastline even in sight in some cases. Your fishing depths are much greater, no longer stopping at a general 40-50 feet but delving hundreds of feet below the water's surface, where sport fishing could turn up some enormous bottom feeders. Therefore, it is important to have some real fishing experience prior to taking part in saltwater sport fishing.



When you participate, good, solid equipment is necessary. Start by making sure your boat is in solid working order, including verifying the condition of your motor or any other vital part of the vessel. When you are out on a lake, you are never out of sight of land and rarely more than a mile from shore, making it easy to paddle back to shore if the need should arise, but it's nearly impossible to get back from 30 miles out at sea in the event of a problem.

Also be aware that sport fishing usually involves a full day out in the hot summer sun on the water. Therefore, it is vital to be prepared with skin protection - visors or hats, boat canopies, and lots of sunblock are key to protecting yourself from the heat and the UV rays. Water and other electrolyte-enhanced liquids are also vital to staying hydrated, and while beer is a refreshing beverage going down, it can also cause greater levels of dehydration. Wear light clothing to keep from overheating as well.

Are you going to fish for redfish or for speckled trout? Choosing the type of fishing in which you intend to participate can make a difference. You'll need to determine the size and type of hook that you use, as well as the bait that you carry. Also, fishing for very large specimen requires a boat big enough to hold your catch. The type of fish you decide you want to target will direct your saltwater sport fishing trip to certain areas. For example, redfish are going to stay near the coastline in the shallows, while flounder will direct your saltwater sport fishing excursion to cooler, deeper waters where they prefer to stay near underwater structures that break the tide for them.