Offshore fishing is a great option for boaters and fishing enthusiasts. You need to be prepared if you are new to offshore fishing. You can find plenty of deep-sea fishing opportunities near the Florida Coast. We highly recommend you take part in at least one of these boating adventures with an experienced charter captain. Let’s start by learning everything you need about Offshore Fishing In Florida.
Get Your License First
You will need a license if you intend to go fishing alone, with a few friends, or with your entire family. Some charters do not require you to have a license before you go out on an offshore fishing trip. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission can help you determine the type of fishing license that you need and how to get one. They will ensure that you have the right license for the type and amount of fishing you are planning to do.
Check Out The Tide and Weather Schedules
Deep-sea fishing, like most boating adventures, is best enjoyed on a sunny day. Even though the best fishing boats can handle anything Mother Nature throws at them, most people don’t want to deal with rough waters or rain while they’re out having fun. Even though the weather may not be dangerous, it can make your day miserable.
Modern times are great because people can predict the weather better. To ensure that you have a safe boating experience, make sure to check the tide schedules and forecast. You don’t need to worry as much if you’re on a chartered fishing trip. You will have to take more responsibility when you plan your trip with family members, friends, or alone.
The Basics of Offshore Fishing In Florida
Offshore fishing is more than just dropping a line from the dock. While you’ll learn many advanced techniques as you go, it’s still important to be familiar with the basics before your first trip. Chartered fishing guides will help you be prepared and avoid making mistakes. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
It’s important to learn the basics when you go out on your own without the help of a professional. You can start by learning the basics, such as how to tie a knot, identify the right fishing boats for you, what equipment you will need and how to properly use it. Bad knots can endanger your fish and make it difficult to secure your dream catch.
Preparing before you set out will make things easier. You can prepare your lure and rod before you go out. This allows you to cast faster and not have to mess with the rigging while out on the water.
Learn About Different Types Of Fish
You don’t want to go deep-sea fishing if you don’t know the type of fish that you are after. You should know what type of fish you are trying to catch so that you can choose the right tackle and bait. Learn about the travel habits of fish and where they are most likely to be found. This will help you avoid wandering aimlessly and increase your chances of success.
It is a good idea to learn more about other fish species. Sometimes you might find something unexpected, so it is a good idea to be familiar with what you are dealing with. You will find many fish in the waters near Florida. This is why deep-sea fishing is so popular in Florida. These are some of the most sought-after offshore fishing destinations:
- Goliath Grouper
- Marlin
- Mahi-Mahi
- Sailfish
- Tuna
- Red Snapper
- Wahoo
- Amberjack
- Kingfish
- Sharks
How To Choose Your Deep Sea Fishing Bait
You can choose the right bait depending on what species you are targeting. If you fish in deep waters, live bait is more effective. These are the most popular types of bait used for offshore fishing in Florida:
Squid – is a versatile bait that appeals to many types of fish and can be used several ways. This bait is especially useful when you are looking to catch sailfish and mahi-mahi as well as cobia and kingfish.
Shrimp – Deep-sea fishing is a great way to use this bait. Fish love shrimp’s smell and movement. Because shrimp is naturally found in deep seawater, it can be used as a flexible bait. All types of fish will eat shrimp.
Ballyhoo – If you think this is a fanciful term, we recommend that you read more about ballyhoo before you start deep-sea fishing. This classic bait works well with mahi-mahi and wahoo as well as sailfish.
Some fish love to eat mussels, crabs, and clams. These types of shellfish are important to consider when fishing for grouper and cobia.
Deep-Sea Fishing Lures
Deep-sea fishing lures are a better choice if you don’t want to use live bait or cut bait. They are used for trolling and bottom fishing, and include the following types:
- Bottom Jigs
- Deep Diving Plugs
- Skirted Trolling Lures
The Best Florida Coast Locations For Deep-Sea Fishing
There are many offshore fishing opportunities in Florida throughout the year. Many people prefer to fish in September, October, or November because large fish are closer to shore searching for prey. If you know where to look and how you should, you can still catch fish any time of year.
These Are The Best Offshore Fishing Spots In Florida.
South Florida- Search for marlins, wahoo and blackfin tuna in the vicinity of Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
East Florida Coast- Search for yellowfin tuna and sailfish near West Palm Beach or Stuart.
Northeast Florida- Search for kingfish or tarpon in the vicinity of Daytona and St. Augustine.
Southwest Florida: Find grouper and goliaths around Fort Myers and Everglades City.
West Coast of Florida- Search for kingfish, snapper and goliath grouper in Sarasota or Tampa.
Northwest Florida — Find snapper, grouper and cobia around Big Bend and Destin.
The Florida Keys: Find tuna and wahoo in Key Largo or Key West.
Salty Knots Fishing Charters
Make sure you are prepared before you set out for deeper waters. Salty Knots Fishing Charter can help experience the fishing trip of a lifetime. If you are interested in booking the best offshore Florida fishing charter then call us today and book with the Salty Knots Fishing Team!
