If you enjoy fishing (or think you might) but have never hired a fishing charter in our area, you are missing out. While I am not going to recommend a specific charter since there literally tons of great options, I am going to use this article to help you understand the differences between nearshore and offshore fishing trips. Also, I will share a few pieces of advice on what to bring and what not to bring.
Nearshore Fishing
While many people typically think of charter fishing as targeting big game miles and miles offshore, inshore charter fishing is extremely popular locally and has several advantages. Inshore varieties of fish include speckled trout, redfish, snook, sheepshead, spanish mackerel, flounder, pompano, snapper and grouper. Advantages of inshore or nearshore fishing include:
- You will be less likely to have a trip cancelled and/or get seasick.
- It offers consistent fishing year-round even with the different changes from season to season.
- You can fish at the same time you explore lots of great scenery.
- It is great for beginners and children.
- If you are short on time and want to list fishing as one of your many activities to do while in town, these trips are a great way to spend an adventurous morning with the family catching fish.
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing consists of a wide array of fishing up to 60 miles offshore. Offshore fishing requires specific equipment and tackle to handle the fish, but it can be worth the extra work and expense. Offshore fishing targets a variety of species that vary with the seasons and include grouper, snapper, amberjack, sharks, tuna, wahoo, cobia, mahi mahi, king mackerel, sailfish and more. Here are some things to note regarding offshore fishing.
- Due to travel time, you should plan on at least 6 hours of being on the water.
- You will be on larger boats that can handle rougher seas.
- While the gulf is often as smooth as glass, people are more prone to get seasick when the waves kick up.
- Every trip will likely be different. You may have more luck fishing off the bottom one day and trolling the next.
- If you want to land a large fish (outside of a Tarpon), you are much more likely to find one offshore.
Important advice
Out on the water, you should be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Most boats will run in a little rain as long as the seas permit. I recommend that you have a hat, sun block, sunglasses, drinks, snacks, and if the weather looks questionable, a poncho or other rain protection. In addition, if your trip leaves early in the morning, the temperature may be cooler, so you may want to dress in layers.