4 Tips for Going Deep Sea Fishing on a Charter Boat

Deep sea or offshore fishing can be a thrilling experience, especially for novice anglers who are looking for a bigger challenge. It is defined as going fishing in deeper waters. Anglers go offshore fishing to nab larger game fish such as marlin, swordfish, sharks, samson fish and tuna, among others.

The type of fish you'll be able to find on an offshore trip depends on your fishing location, so it's important to carry out a little research to ensure the season and location are both right. Before setting out to sea, the following are some important points to remember:

1. Do you get seasick?

Bouts of seasickness can sully your entire fishing experience. Remember that deep sea fishing means you'll have to travel a few kilometres into the sea, and this extended period of sea travel can get to you, particularly if the sea isn't calm. Carry something on your first trip, even if you don't usually have the same problem fishing closer to shore.

The easiest way to fight seasickness is to get medication to fight the nausea at your local health store or pharmacy. Natural remedies like drinking ginger beer on-board or taking ginger tablets can also improve your disposition.

2. Carrying your gear

Most fishing charters allow anglers to carry their own bait and tackles. This can make your trip more successful, since it's gear you're already well-versed with. However, it can be a headache for the deckhands and skippers, particularly if you're using braid lines. Most boats targeting demersal species use monofilament lines on reels attached to the boat. The latter are hardier, cheaper and much easier to detangle.

If you're using braid lines and choose to carry them, be prepared to lose some length in case there's tangling. The deck hands will try their best, but if you catch a fish that goes on a rampage all over the deck, tangling several lines in the process, you may have to eventually cut the lines and start afresh.

3. Find a reef

While it may seem counterintuitive if you're looking for large game fish, remember that large fish often feed on smaller fish. Reefs have a large population of smaller fish. This means that at feeding time, you will have large fish venturing close to reefs, and you can easily score here.

4. Bring an expert on your first trip out

No matter how many times you've gone fishing onshore, you should bring an experienced deep sea angler for your first offshore trip. Choose someone who knows the waters in the region well, and they will guide you towards the best places to find game fish. 

Contact a fishing charter for additional information.


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