Getting Started With Saltwater Fishing

There aren’t many recreational outdoor activities more popular than fishing.  For many, the salt water fishing is the most enjoyable form of fishing. In another blog post we set out the different types of saltwater fishing, but here we will give you give you the basics required to get started.

Salt Water Fishing from a Pier

Pier fishing is perhaps the easiest way to start your salt water fishing journey as:

  1. Being on land, you will not have to have the knowledge and skills to safely handle a boat.
  2. Nor will you have the expense of running the boat (or launching it!)
  3. Weather forecasting and decisions are less important – you can simply get in the car and go home if the weather turns bad.
  4. By walking out towards the end of the pier you will likely be able to get to water that is at least 3 meters deep.  This gives you the ability to catch large fish.  This is possible through fishing from the shore or wading through the breakers, but this would require either a longer rod or getting wet!

Equipment for Pier Salt Water Fishing

To get started fishing from a pier consider the following:

  1. Fishing is normally best in the two hours before and after high tide.  This can sometimes vary in your local area, but is a great general rule to use.
  2. Use sinkers.  This will help to keep your hook and bait deep in the water.
  3. Bait such as shrimp, sardines and bloodworms can work well
  4. Consider using a J-Hook as your hook
  5. A good quality medium or heavy rod

Aside from the rod, tackle and accessories, also consider:

  1. Bringing a fishing knife for cutting bait. .
  2. Bringing a tackle box (or anything box with a few compartments) to help keep your hooks, tackle etc. organised
  3. A cooler box (to keep catches cool) and perhaps even to keep a few beers cool – if drinking in public spaces it is allowed in your state / country.

Don’t forget that you can always upgrade your equipment over time.  If you are just starting out feel free to borrow all the equipment you can.  Many fishing shops will also make equipment such as rods available for rental.

Good luck!

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