Offshore Fishing

Offshore fishing is a term that has a rather vague meaning, or, rather, different definitions in different areas. What they have in common, however, is that if the captain of the charter boat offers to take you offshore fishing, you are going to be taken in a powerful boat rather far from the coast. Most offshore fishing takes place on the oceans and seas, but on the biggest of the lakes it can be practiced as well, even though it may not be known by this name. How far “off” the shore do you have to be so as not to be fishing “nearshore”? The answer is often not so much about distance, as about depth. In Australia, for example, the difference between offshore and inshore fishing is supposed to lie at the depth of 100 feet (30 meter) - anything deeper is offshore, shallower is nearshore. In some areas water color may serve as an indicator: greener water is typical for nearshore locations, deep blue color for offshore. Often, offshore is used in the same sense as deep sea, but in some areas “offshore” is between “nearshore” and “deep sea”, with “deep sea” beginning with depths of about 100 yards (91 meters). Most offshore fishing offers imply a serious approach to fishing - easy and relaxed family grade fun, like chumming and handlining, is reserved for easier accessible nearshore trips. It is also more expensive - the journey may take you 20-30 miles away from the coastline, and this calls for a bigger boat, and more fuel consumption. You’re also looking at at least a 6-hour trip; for best experience, make it a full day. Offshore fishing typically targets traditional saltwater gamefish species, such as king mackerel, wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, swordfish and sailfish. Trolling with either live or artificial bait is the most common technique, but bottom fishing and vertical jigging can be applied, too. Heavy tackle is usually required, but will be in most cases provided by the charter. There are numerous pages with offshore fishing tips and techniques. But if you want to try yourself at this kind of adventure, your best bet is to hire a charter boat with a reputable captain, and learn by watching what they do and doing what they say.