While some principles remain the same, saltwater angling has its own unique charm, and a few key differences you’ll want to be aware of. Don’t be intimidated by the vastness of the ocean – we’ll get you started on the right fin!

Baiting Up for the Brine: Easy Saltwater Choices

Just like in freshwater, simple and effective baits are your best friends when starting out in saltwater.

• Shrimp (Fresh or Frozen): The universal candy of the sea! Almost everything that swims in saltwater will eat shrimp. You can buy them fresh from bait shops or frozen from tackle stores and even some grocery stores. Cut them into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your target fish.
• Squid (Frozen): Another fantastic, widely available, and surprisingly durable bait. Squid strips stay on the hook well, making them great for casting and letting your bait sit. Cut them into long, thin strips.
• Clams/Mussels (Fresh or Frozen): If you can get your hands on them, these can be incredibly effective, especially for bottom feeders. They’re a bit messier to handle, but fish absolutely love the scent.
• Cut Bait (Small Fish): If allowed and available, small pieces of fresh baitfish (like mullet, pilchards, or mackerel) can be irresistible to larger predatory fish. Check with your local bait shop for what’s good in your area.

Pro Tip: Saltwater fish rely heavily on scent. Use fresh bait whenever possible, and don’t be afraid to change your bait every 15-20 minutes if you’re not getting bites.

Tackle for the Tide: What You’ll Need

Saltwater is harsher on gear, so your freshwater setup might not cut it. You’ll need tackle designed to handle the salt and the potentially larger, stronger fish.

• Saltwater Rod and Reel Combo: This is crucial. Look for a spinning rod and reel combo specifically rated for saltwater use. They’ll be made with corrosion-resistant materials. A medium to medium-heavy action rod, around 7-9 feet, is a versatile choice for casting from shore or a pier. Ensure the reel is spooled with braided line (20-30 lb test) or monofilament (15-25 lb test).
• Terminal Tackle (The Bits at the End of Your Line):
  • Hooks: Start with a variety of strong, corrosion-resistant hooks. Circle hooks (sizes 1/0 to 4/0) are excellent for saltwater, as they often hook fish in the corner of the mouth, making for easier release and less harm to the fish. J-hooks (sizes #2 to 2/0) are also good.
  • Sinkers/Weights: You’ll need heavier sinkers in saltwater to combat currents and waves. Pyramid sinkers (1-4 oz) are great for holding bottom, and egg sinkers (1-2 oz) can be used on a Carolina rig (see below).
  • Swivels: Barrel or snap swivels (size 7 to 10) prevent line twist, especially when casting or if your bait spins in the current.
  • Leaders: A short piece of heavier monofilament or fluorocarbon line (20-40 lb test) tied between your main line and your hook/sinker. This protects your main line from abrasive structures and sharp fish teeth.
• Pliers/Forceps: Even more essential in saltwater for hook removal and cutting heavier line. Look for stainless steel or corrosion-resistant options.
• Fillet Knife & Cutting Board (Optional): If you plan on keeping your catch.
• Cooler with Ice: Crucial for keeping your bait fresh and your catch chilled.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable. The sun’s glare off the water can be intense.

Basic Saltwater Rig: For beginners, a simple bottom rig or a Carolina rig is a great starting point.

• Bottom Rig: Tie a swivel to your main line. On one end of a leader, tie your hook. On the other end, tie the leader to the swivel. Above the swivel on your main line, add a sinker.
• Carolina Rig: Thread an egg sinker onto your main line, then tie on a swivel. On the other side of the swivel, tie a leader (18-36 inches) and then your hook. This allows the fish to pick up the bait without feeling the weight of the sinker.

Prime Spots for Your First Saltwater Cast

Access and safety are key for your initial saltwater adventures.

• Public Piers and Jetties: These are fantastic starting points. They offer easy access, often have bait shops nearby, and you can learn by observing other anglers. Fish congregate around structure, so piers and jetties are natural fish magnets.
• Docks and Bridges (with public access): Similar to piers, these structures provide shelter and feeding grounds for many saltwater species. Always ensure you have legal access.
• Calm Beaches or Coves: Look for areas with minimal waves and current. These can be great for casting out for smaller surf species. Early morning or late evening often yield good results.
• Designated Saltwater Fishing Parks: Many coastal areas have parks specifically designed for shore fishing, often with amenities and good fishing opportunities.

Crucial Saltwater Considerations:

• Tides: Unlike freshwater, saltwater fishing is heavily influenced by tides. Fish often feed most actively during incoming or outgoing tides when baitfish are moving. Check a local tide chart before you go.
• Know Your Target: Research what fish are common in your chosen area and what baits and techniques they prefer. This will greatly increase your success.
• Respect the Environment: The ocean is a delicate ecosystem. Pack out all your trash, including discarded fishing line. Practice proper catch and release if you’re not keeping fish.
• Saltwater Corrosion: Always rinse your rod, reel, and tackle thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater outing. This will prevent corrosion and extend the life of your gear.

Saltwater fishing is a journey of discovery, offering endless opportunities for excitement and beautiful encounters with marine life. Start simple, be patient, and embrace the wildness of the coast. You’re about to experience fishing on a whole new level!

Tight lines, and may your cooler be heavy!

Last year, I had the opportunity to experience this hidden gem firsthand with North East Fishing Charters. Their 31-foot vessel, the aptly named “Always Hookin'”, took me on an unforgettable adventure in search of grouper.

The day dawned calm and beautiful. The sun glinted off the water, creating a shimmering path that stretched out towards the horizon. As we pulled away from the dock, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling up.
The crew at North East Fishing Charters only amplified this feeling. Knowledgeable, friendly, and immensely experienced, they made everyone on board feel welcome and comfortable. Their expertise in these waters was evident, and their passion for fishing was truly contagious.
The boat itself was another testament to their professionalism. The “Always Hookin'” was clean, well-maintained, and perfectly equipped for a day on the water.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, North East Fishing Charters provides everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.
As we ventured further offshore, the anticipation grew. We were fishing 7-35 miles out, right in the heart of Jacksonville’s massive offshore reef system – a haven for an incredible variety of fish. Throughout the year, these waters teem with grouper, mutton snapper, kingfish, sailfish, triggerfish, red snapper, and even barracudas. In the winter months, you might even encounter cobia, sheepshead, black sea bass, and vermillion snapper.

The day unfolded in a flurry of activity. Lines were cast, baits were deployed, and stories were swapped between fellow anglers. The crew’s guidance proved invaluable, helping us target the right spots and employ the most effective techniques. And let me tell you, the feeling of reeling in a grouper is something truly special. The fight was exhilarating, and the sense of accomplishment, immense.

By the end of the day, we had a cooler full of delicious fish and memories that will last a lifetime. North East Fishing Charters provided an exceptional experience, from the pristine boat and knowledgeable crew to the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of the catch.

So, next time you find yourself in Jacksonville, Florida, don’t be fooled by the city lights. Look beyond the concrete jungle and discover the incredible fishery that lies just offshore. With North East Fishing Charters and the “Always Hookin'”, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure on the water.

Friendly and Knowledgeable Crew
From the moment I stepped aboard the Otter, Captain Seth, Sean, Mike, and the crew made me feel incredibly welcome. Their friendly demeanor immediately put me at ease, and their wealth of knowledge about the local waters was truly impressive. Throughout the trip, they were happy to answer any questions I had and offered helpful tips to improve my fishing technique.

The Otter itself was a testament to Captain Seth SportFishing’s commitment to quality. The boat was impeccably clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and safe environment for our fishing adventure. Everything we needed was readily available, and the overall impression was one of professionalism and care.

The day itself was an absolute blast. The crew’s expertise in locating striped bass hotspots was evident, and we were rewarded with several successful catches. The thrill of fighting a striped bass and the satisfaction of reeling it in is something I won’t soon forget.
Your Connecticut Sportfishing Destination

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, Captain Seth SportFishing offers an exceptional experience. With their comfortable vessel, friendly crew, and undeniable expertise, you’re all but guaranteed a successful and enjoyable day on the water.

If you’re looking to catch striped bass, bluefish, fluke, sea bass, or anything else Connecticut waters have to offer, I highly recommend booking a trip with Captain Seth SportFishing. Check out their website at https://www.captainsethsportfishing.com to learn more and book your unforgettable fishing adventure today!

From the moment I stepped aboard their immaculate vessel, I knew I was in good hands. The boat was clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything needed for a successful day on the water. But it was the crew that truly made the experience unforgettable. Their knowledge of the local waters and their ability to locate the best fishing spots were truly impressive. They were also incredibly friendly and helpful, ensuring that everyone on board had a fantastic time.

We spent the day battling some impressive striped bass, with the crew providing expert guidance and support. The thrill of feeling a fish strike the line and the excitement of reeling it in were unmatched. It was a truly unforgettable experience that I’ll cherish for years to come.
If you’re looking for a top-notch striped bass fishing charter, I highly recommend Tuna Hunters. Their combination of a knowledgeable crew, a well-maintained boat, and a commitment to providing an exceptional experience make them the perfect choice for any angler.

One of the things I loved most about this charter was the close proximity to shore. This made it a great option for young anglers or those who prefer a more relaxed and comfortable experience. It also allowed us to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Cape Ann while we fished.

https://www.tunahunter.com

The incident unfolded on a warm August morning. Rekar, a longtime resident of the area, had ventured out in a small fishing boat, hoping to capitalize on the favorable weather conditions. With a simple mackerel baited hook, he began drifting along the shoreline, casting his line into the depths.
As the sun began to climb higher in the sky, Rekar felt a sudden tug on his line. At first, he thought it might be a smaller fish, perhaps a striped bass or a fluke. But as the fish began to pull with increasing force, Rekar realized he was in for a fight.
The battle that ensued was nothing short of epic. The bluefish, a formidable adversary known for its powerful runs and sharp teeth, put up a fierce resistance. Rekar, however, remained calm and composed, expertly maneuvering his boat to keep the fish from breaking free.

After what seemed like an eternity, Rekar managed to bring the fish to the surface. The sight that greeted him was breathtaking. The bluefish was a colossal specimen, its shimmering body glinting in the sunlight. With a quick and efficient maneuver, Rekar secured the fish aboard his boat.

With the vast numbers of bait-fish in Narragansett bay and all along the eastern coast. 2011 is turning into one of the best fishing years on record. If you still consider yourself a rookie this would be a great year to get hooked on fishing. You don’t need much experience this year to land a lunker bass. The largest challenge is just finding what they are feeding on. Once you determine that you can easily fill your quota in 2011. So far this year I have had good luck live lining menhaden and using smaller plugs that mimic the anchovies that they seem to be feeding on.

This lunker Striper pictured on the right was caught by live lining a menhaden in East Greenwich bay.  The stripers that day were very finicky as they had much bait fish in the water to choose from.  But with some persistence a few decent size fish were landed. 

2011 has been somewhat of a strange year as their seems to be an overabundance of bait-fish in Narragansett bay and very few Bluefish chasing them around.  Plenty of decent size bass have been landed however. 

For more information on how to catch striped bass be sure to read our article on Striped bass fishing tips.

Surf Casting

One of the most popular Striper fishing techniques is what is referred to as “Surf Casting”.  As it name implies it requires an angler to

cast into the surf.  The most common plugs used while surf casting are hard poppers, crank baits or plugs.  Many anglers also use a softer plastic plugs with squishy tails.  These are becoming very popular as many believe that they are more believable to the Bass.  A variety of manufacturers make these types of plugs, including Rebel, Storm and Rapala.  Take a walk down the tackle isle in the sporting good section and you will be sure to see a large selection of plugs. 

Target areas where their is turbulent water.  Stripers like an opportunity to prey on a small fish that has lost its sense of direction in crashing waves or fast moving current.  Many popular locations consist of what is referred to as a choke point.  This is an area where their is a large body of water that needs to funnel through a small opening.  For instance a breaker wall with just a narrow opening letting the incoming or outgoing tidewater through would be an ideal striper fishing location.

Using Live or Dead Bait 

Stripers can also be caught from shore using baited hooks.  Many popular baits are clams, clam worms, squid or pieces of menhaden.  Whenever possible I try to fish with live bait, preferably menhaden or mackerel if you can get your hands on some.

A very popular technique that has produced very good results for me over the last few years is to first take a size 5 fishing hook and place a plastic clam worm on it.  I then bait the hook with a small piece of squid.  I attach a weight a few feet above this rig and I cast out as far as possible.  I then perform a very, very slow retrieve trying to mimic a small clam worm crawling on the bottom of the sea floor.  Whenever I feel a nibble I let the line go slack for two seconds and then set the hook.  I have landed a variety of large Stripers using this method.  This method is especially good when I know that a “worm hatch” has recently occurred and the stripers are feeding on worms naturally. 

Best Striper Fishing Locations

Stripers are a migratory species of fish so they can be hard to find at times.  Target areas where you see an abundance of eel grass or other natural areas where small fish can spawn and grow.  Inlets with large amounts of eel grass also produce very good results on a fast moving outgoing tide.  Also look for peninsulas that appear to have a sharp drop off.   As mentioned above look for “choke points” where the Stripers have limited options to enter or leave a body of water.  Always be on the look out for working birds that are diving in the water for bait fish.  Once you find a good location, I have found that the same locations seem to produce well year after year.

Before you embark on your first saltwater fishing voyage you first should decide of what species of fish you want to target.  Here is a list of popular game fish that you may want to start off with.  I would recommend either Scup or Flounder as they are fairly easy to locate,catch and often times found in large numbers.

• Scup
• Flounder
• Bluefish
• Striped Bass
• Tautog

As with any kind of fishing it is always important to try and locate the fish or at least have an idea as to where you think the fish are.  This is especially true for saltwater fishing as the ocean is a rather big place.  So I will start off by discussing some popular fishing locations and indicators of where a good fishing location may be.

Good Saltwater Fishing Spots

The best advice that anyone can give you is to always talk to a local angler, someone you know and trust.  In fact talk to as many local fisherman as possible to get a good idea of the specific tackle and locations for region you plan to fish.  There are however some things that you can look for yourself while you are on the water.  Pay attention to nature as a free meal rarely goes unnoticed for long.  If you see a flock of Seagulls or Turns diving into the water odds are there is bait fish in the area.  Also pay attention to where vegetation is as striped bass generally feed near or around eel grass.

If you plan on targeting flounder as your fist saltwater fishing experience then I would recommend going on a guided trip or make a friend with a fishing boat who has fished for flounder before.  If you plan on taking a rented boat or your own boat then seek out the other fishing boats once on the water.  If local anglers are catching flounder in an area you will see a large number of fishing boats congregated in a small area.  When you see these fleets of fishing boats it is a very good indication that flounder or another species of fish are being caught.  Flounder do not migrate too far over the course of a day or even month so once you have found the Flounder or the boats catching Flounder make a mental note or create a way point in your GPS reminding you as to where the Flounder are.

If scup is on the menu for the days dinner then having a good fish finder is helpful, or look for rocky areas or areas that seem to have vegetation or debris on the bottom.  Trial and error is a part of fishing so you may have to try a few spots before you find one that produces good results.  Don’t give up if you are not successful on your first trip.  A good friend of mine always says, “This is why they call it fishing and not catching”.  Finding a good spot is all part of the fun.   Target rocky shorelines with depts of 12 to 20 feet of water for scup fishing.

Fishing Tackle for Your First Saltwater Fishing Trip

If you already have a fishing rod then that’s great!  There is no real need to buy an expensive fishing rod for your first saltwater fishing trip.  Even if you only have a freshwater rod that is fine.  Saltwater rods are larger and slightly more expensive that your typical freshwater spin-casting rod.  Your local superstore should have a sporting goods section.  A saltwater rod can cost anywhere between $30 and $50 dollars. 

While you are shopping you also may want to add the following items to your list.

• Scup Hooks
• Flounder Hooks
• Teardrop Weights
• Flounder Jigs
• 3 way swivels
• 10lb or 15lb test fishing line

This should be enough to cover your first saltwater fishing experience.  There is no need to buy out the fishing isle your first trip.

Rigging Methods for Scup Fishing

In order to catch Scup you must first attach the proper rig to your your line.  A typical Scup rig consists of a three way swivel, a few small prelined hooks and a prelined tear drop weight.  The procedure to attach this rig is as follows.  First attach the three way swivel to the fishing line with a clinch knot.    Then attach the tear drop weight to a few feet of 5 to 10 lb fishing line, which is attached to the three way swivel.  Now attach the small hooks to the other eye of the three way swivel.  Bait the hook or hooks with claim worms or quahog.   

Scup are rather small so some anglers actually prefer to fish with freshwater poles and tackle as the freshwater rods are more sensitive to feeling when the Scup nibble on the bait.

Techniques for Scup Fishing

Once your rig is set up the technique for Scup fishing is rather simple.  Simply lower your line to the sea floor by flipping the bail on your reel and then reel in a few turns until the bait flips placing tension on the fishing line.  Once the bait is on the sea floor you can bob it off the bottom a few feet at a time.  I will generally wait around 10 minutes per location.  If I do not feel a nibble on the line then I will try another location on the boat.  If I still do not feel any activity on the sea floor I will move to another location completely.  Once you begin to catch scup more will soon follow as they are a school fish and can be caught in large numbers.

Once you do feel a nibble on the line quickly set the hook by rotating the tip of the fishing rod skyward.  Scup are know to steal bait frequently so be sure to check your bait often if you think you felt a nibble on the line. 

Rigging Methods for Flounder Fishing

A flounder rig consists of a Buctail Jig or a Flounder jig.  A Bucktail Jig looks like a small white squid to the flounder.  It is generally painted white with an eye in the front to attach your line and white dear or horse hair streaming behind it covering an average size hook that is pointed upward.  The simplest rig is to simply attach this lure to your line and bait it with a small piece of squid. 

Techniques for Flounder Fishing

The same techniques for scup fishing can be applied for flounder fishing with a few slight modifications.  While flounder fishing it is important to fish while performing a slow drift or be casting and reeling in your line slowly.  You also want the Bucktail or Flounder Jig to drag in the sea floor or at least be a few inches from the bottom.  I have found that if you drag it on the bottom and then raise your rod a few feet and then lower it again every 2 minutes or so it increases the strikes you you get.  Set the hook the same way as described for Scup fishing.

A few words About Safety

Be very careful on any rock piling or breaker walls that you may decide to fish.  Very often as the tide goes out it leaves behind very slippery rocks covered with slippery sea weed.  Try not to venture off too far by yourself.  Also pay attention to the tides.  In certain states the tide comes in much quicker than others.  Always talk to a local about where you intend to fish or speak with someone in your local DEM office.  Bring a safety whistle and wear brightly colored clothing.

Tarpon Fishing Facts

Tarpon can grow quite large some ranging over 8 feet long weighing 300 lbs plus. Their large mouths and massive tails make them a very impressive catch to brag about to your friends. They are an anadromous fish, which means that they can live in both freshwater and saltwater. They use their air bladder to help them with buoyancy as well as an additional air supply while they are in waters with low oxygen. They are found mostly in saltwater, but can be found in freshwater rivers and marshes. Their very large flashy scales make them very distinguishable especially when they come to the surface and "roll" to grab a gulp of air. Many anglers that study Tarpon anticipate this behavior and use it for their advantage while trying to locate Tarpon.

Tarpon are known to be cannibalistic but will feed mostly on other fish species like alewives, minnows, menhaden, mackerel or whatever bait-fish is plentiful at the time.

They do not have any teach with makes them easier to handle once out of the water. Anglers often hoist them from the water by their lower jaw using only a glove. Never attempt this with a bluefish or other species that you know has razor sharp teeth.

Once caught they put on quite the acrobatic display leaping many feet in into the air.

Their overall length is also an asset to them as they can use their lateral line system to hone in on a struggling fishes vibration.

How to catch Tarpon

Tarpon can be caught by a variety of methods. One such method is called “live lining” which involves attaching a live bait to the end of the line. Such bait could be Menhaden, Crabs, Pin fish or Mullet. Most anglers will try to hook a medium sized hook behind the dorsal fin ot the bait fish. Tarpon will attempt to swallow their meals headfirst with one large gulp as they do not have teach to chew their meals. Some anglers will place their hook a few feet down from a float dobber so they can keep an eye on their line when a big one bites. Depending on how deep the fish are will determine if you need a dobber or a small weight. They generally are not found very deep in the water column however so try to keep your bait near the surface.

Tarpon can also be caught trolling or casting. Casting is the preferred method as they can be easily spooked by a running motor. Any larger multicolored plug or swim-bait can be effective. Most Tarpon can be found within a few miles from shore.

What is the best bait for Tarpon Fishing

Study the fish species that are in your current location and understand what the Tarpon are currently feeding on. Try to match your color, size and shape to what they are currently feeding on.
Any smaller fish or even insect imitations can be used to catch smaller Tarpon. Fly Fishing for Tarpon is becoming more and more popular as time progresses. Pin-fish, Sardines and crabs seem to be the most popular baits that are bought at the local bait shops.

Where to catch Tarpon

Tarpon can be caught along the Eastern Sea Shore from Georgia to South America and parts of the Gulf. Many anglers are concerned about the Tarpon populations due to the recent oil spill disaster in the gulf. Generally anglers will target areas a few miles out from the shoreline. Bridges are also popular locations as they have been know to hide out in the shady areas during the midday sun.

Some Specific Areas include:

Jacksonville Florida
West Palm Beach Florida
Miami Florida
Florida Keys
Caribbean Islands
Panama City Florida
New Orleans Louisiana
Savannah Georgia
Richmond South Carolina

When is the best time to catch Tarpon

Tarpon are a nocturnal species so they are best caught in either the early morning or late in the evening. On a full moon they can also be caught throughout the night. Many anglers feel that the spring and summer months are the most active times to catch Tarpon.
Look for artificial lights when night fishing as they are attracted the light and they can easily spot prey fish with their good vision in low light conditions.