Intro to Saltwater

Salt- Water fishing is a broad term to describe all the different types of fishing in the ocean. You can surf fish, fish on a boat, or off of a pier.

Salt water fishing can produce some of the most incredible catches. Fish ranging from a couple pounds to a couple hundred can be caught by the everyday sport angler!

Some of the most popular species that are caught in the ocean, mainly off the west coast which is where I fish, include; Cod, Halibut, Salmon (Coho, Spring, Shinook), Red Snapper, Flounder, and Tuna. Other coastal regions you can find fish like Bluefish, Cobia, kingfish, Tarpon, Makerel, and many more!

When fishing off of a boat there a number of different styles. When trolling you use a downrigger, we’ve always used Scotty’s and they’ve always performed amazing, and a weight which takes your line down to depths that the fish are at. Attached to your line you’ll use a flasher with a leader attached using spoons or hootchies or live bait (Whatever the fish are eating in your area).  For Mootching you have your boat just floating (Not steering) and use buzz bombs or other lures to get down to depths and use jig motions to attract fish. To jig you pull up on your rod in a smooth movement then suddenly drop it and let your lure fall until your line pulls tight. When fishing for larger fish or at deeper depths trolling is typically used.

Some Tips and Tricks for Salt-Water Fishing

• Make sure you tie the right knot- This is important as there is nothing worse than
  catching that perfect fish and losing it because the knot came undone. The salt-water knot is the most popular to use.(Follow Picture)

• Protect your gear – Salt water fishing gear is not cheap, but it is durable! If you take the time to hose off any gear with fresh water when you’re done your gear will last a lot longer. Salt water can cease up a good reel and ruin line if not rinsed at least regularly.

• Watch your leader – The currents on the ocean are strong, and if you’re trolling it could mess it up even more. The leaders are usually a couple feet long so take care when lowering your downriggers so they don’t get tangled. Keep a semi-slow and steady speed when letting out your downrigger and line.

Here is a couple of starter tips to help you when you hit the water this winter/spring!

Any cool tips you want to share? Leave a comment below

Happy Fishing!