Inshore Versus Offshore Fishing

Inshore Vs Offshore Fishing: What’s the Difference?

Many people wonder what the differences are between inshore Vs offshore fishing. It is quite easy to answer. Inshore fishing is fishing in water less than 30 m deep. Offshore fishing is fishing when the water is deeper than 30 m. Many also believe that offshore fishing is nine miles away from the shore.

Inshore vs. Offshore Fishing

The only thing that makes a difference is how far you fish from shore. This also affects the type of boat and equipment you use. Here we will learn more about the differences between these types of fishing.

Inshore fishing is done closer to the coast. Inter-coastal waters, channels and bays are all places where people fish. People can use smaller motor boats and canoes as the waters are much more calm than in offshore fishing.  There are many ways to inshore fish, including the following:

  • Drifting
  • Still fishing
  • Bottom fishing
  • Popping
  • Trolling
  • Sight Fishing
  • Fly fishing
  • Dock fishing
  • Kayak Fishing

Inshore fishing uses lighter tackle and can use either live or dead bait. You can also use GPS and fish tracking devices for finding the fish. You will also travel shorter distances and spend more time fishing than traveling.

Most inshore fishing rods are rated for lighter lines than an offshore one.

Most inshore reels will use spinning reels, with occasional baitcasters.

The variety and size of fish you will find is another important difference. These fish are common inshore:

  • Snook
  • Tarpon
  • Bonefish
  • Permit
  • Speckled Trout
  • Striped bass
  • Flounder
  • Snapper
  • Redfish
  • Cobia

What Makes Offshore Fishing Different?

Offshore fish, on the other hand, also known as deep sea fishing. You will travel from the coast to deeper waters. They use large sport fishing boats. The weather and the time of year determine the types of fish they can catch.

Offshore fishing uses XM Satellite Radio & Weather and Chirp Sonar. Heavy bait and large-duty tackle are required.

Large fish are targeted by offshore fishing, such as the following:

  • Grouper
  • Amberjack
  • Mako Sharks
  • Blackfin
  • Tuna
  • Wahoo
  • Marlin

For offshore fishing, radar and sonar are essential for finding the fish. It takes time to fish offshore, so you should plan on spending between 8 and 12 hours from shore. It is important to remember that weather conditions and season can have an impact on the type of fish you catch.

A Summary of the Differences Between Inshore Vs Offshore Fishing

Inshore fishing and offshore fishing are different in that they take in different depths of water.

These features are what people choose to use when choosing the type of fishing they like.

Inshore:

  • You can also find smaller inshore boat, canoes or kayaks
  • It is done in waters less than 30 meters deep and less than nine miles from coast
  • It is easier to use less equipment
  • Families with small children will be happier
  • No matter what season or weather, consistent fishing
  • Although fish are smaller than other species, you can still catch them.
  • You can use light tackle and live bait, as well as dead bait.

Offshore fishing:

  • Sportfishing requires larger boats
  • In waters greater than 30m deep, you are usually nine miles from the shore
  • Heavy tackle and trolling equipment are required, along with radar and sonar to track.
  • Drop fishing with heavy duty vertical Jigging Rods
  • Trips lasting between 8 and 14 hours. Still family-friendly
  • Weather and seasons can have an impact on fishing.
  • There are many species of fish to choose from.

Here at Salty Knots Fishing charters we offer offshore fishing trips for the Avid angler as well as the first timers looking to catch a fish of a lifetime! Visit our site today to see the different packages we offer and contact us here to get your fishing trip scheduled today!