Fishing offshore can be an exciting and rewarding experience for any angler, but it requires more preparation and gear than fishing inshore. Whether you’re a seasoned offshore fisherman or a beginner, knowing what you need to fish offshore is crucial to having a successful and safe trip. From the right fishing gear to safety equipment and communication devices, there are several essential items you should have before heading out to deeper waters.

Rods and Reels

This one is obvious, but we think it’s the most important. Without rods and reels, who’s going out to the ocean or bay to catch fish? We hope not.

Landing nets

While some fish can be swung over the gunwale with ease, large fish will often get lost if they are brought into the boat in this manner. A landing net is safer and more efficient for catching fish. A landing net should have a handle that can reach the water level from your boat’s deck. It should also be large enough to hold the largest fish.

Long-nose Pliers

You will catch a fish with a hook in its mouth. It is important to have a method of getting that hook out. While dedicated hook removers are great, long-nose and long-nose pliers work equally well. You also have the advantage of having a pair handy for tasks such as bending hooks and trimming leaders.

Bait and/or lures

This is another obvious item, but we cannot forget lures/bait (along with hooks and basic tackle such as swivels or sinkers). The type of fishing and the species you are trying to catch will determine which types you need. You can often get the information you need by consulting the local fishing reports and asking for advice at your local tackle shop.

The article was written by a professional charter captain at Salty Knots Fishing Charters with 15+ years of experience in the Gulf of Mexico. https://stpetersburgfishingcharters.com/ is a local fishing charter service based out of St. Pete Beach, Florida. “We know what it takes to catch a giant trophy fish!”