Top Saltwater Fishing Gear & Accessories Needed Onboard
The sun is shining, fuel tanks full, and you are ready for some saltwater therapy. Before heading out into the blue-water arena, there are a few things that will come in handy to make your day of salt-water fishing most enjoyable. Whether you aim to catch hard-fighting pelagic fish or you’re simply trying to catch tonight’s dinner, we have outlined the top saltwater fishing gear needed for a successful day of saltwater fishing on your boat.
Rods & Reels
Although obvious, you’d be surprised what people forget when eager to get out on the water. Rods and reels, of course, are the most important to have onboard. Like the style of saltwater fishing you choose to do, your choice of rods and reels will vary as well. Some different types of rods include spinning rods for smaller fish or trolling rods for larger, hard-fighting fish. Rods and reels will also vary by length, heaviness, and durability, but for this list, we’ll keep it to the basics. Whatever style of fishing you prefer, don’t leave the dock without these essential items.
Tackle Box
It’s a smart idea to assemble a tackle box of common fishing accessories needed while out on the water. The list can be endless— but for starters— ensure you have lures and or artificial bait if you aim for that style of fishing. Swivels, sinkers, gaff, pair of scissors, pair of long nose pliers, and hooks are other essentials you’ll want to stock up on. Usually, your local tackle shop will be able to assist you in finding the right gear for the type of fishing you choose to do.
Buckets
You might be scratching your head on this one, but you’d be surprised at how many ways buckets come in handy when fishing on your boat. The options are endless; you could utilize your bucket for keeping bait alive; use it for chopped-up bait storage; fill it with soap and water for an easy clean-up at the end of the day; or use it as an additional seat while out on the water.
Landing Nets
While landing nets aren’t necessarily needed, it is a wise choice to bring one aboard. Landing nets will help aid your larger catches that can oftentimes be lost when trying to swing them over the boat; or if you don’t have a gaff present. Moreover, landing nets will help protect the fish if you choose to catch and release it. A rubber mesh landing net is preferred compared to the regular knotted nylon ones. Nylon nets can cause injuries to the fish if you decide to throw them back.
Ruler
Every responsible angler knows that having a ruler onboard is crucial when planning to keep your saltwater catches. Following the rules and regulations on minimum length requirements are very important and can lead to hefty fines if not adhered to.
Clothing & Accessories
Don’t make the mistake of wearing the wrong gear for a day of fishing. Depending on weather conditions, investing in proper fishing gear is key to keeping cool or warm. Other notable accessories include sunblock, sunglasses, buff, jacket, fishing shoes, and a large-brimmed hat. Bringing an extra set of clothes is also a smart idea if you want to be comfortable on your ride back inshore.
Filet Knife & Sharpener
A quality filet knife makes for quick filet work on your bait and/or catch (if you choose to filet on the spot). Not to mention, having a knife on board could come in handy for cutting line or any number of things when dealing with nature. Fileting fish will dull your knife quickly so be sure to keep a sharpener on board when needed.
Knowledge
Any time you are headed into ocean waters the best accessory you could have onboard is knowledge. In other words, do your research before planning your saltwater fishing trip. This could make the difference in having a successful trip or a disappointing one. First and foremost, research the weather. Once you are in the clear with the weather reports, research the type of fish you are looking to catch and what locations and equipment are best for those specific species. Also, choose bait wisely and be sure to bring enough onboard for your allotted time.
Fishing License (if required)
Last but not least, if you are fishing in Florida waters, you must have a fishing license on hand. The state of Florida requires all anglers between the ages of 16 and 65, who intend to land saltwater species in Florida, obtain a Florida fishing license. Licenses and permits are available online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, in person at a licensed agent or tax collector’s office or by calling toll-free 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356).
Experience the Action: Book a Saltwater Fishing Charter
If you have yet to experience a day of action-packed saltwater fishing, check out our fishing charter site below. Once you’ve experienced it for yourself, you’ll be dreaming of a center console boat, walkaround, deck, or bay boat of your own. Either way, Galati Yacht Sales will be here to guide you every step of the way.
View Charter Site View Center Console Boats
