When there is water there is bound to be a fish, and when there is fish, there’s bound to be a fisherman. Deep sea fishing is a form of angling that requires deep waters and usually takes place further away from land. The water depth should be at least 30 meters to be considered deep sea fishing territory. This fishing method is also often called offshore boat fishing, sport fishing, and big game fishing. Some of the finest species of game fish can be caught only in the ocean. But before you venture out to the deep ocean to fish, you might want to read this guide on everything you need to know about ocean fishing.

 

 

 

 

GETTING READY

 

Before you go planning your trip, you will need to buy right equipment for fishing in the ocean; saltwater rods and other equipment are made to withstand the salt water’s corrosive properties. You can either buy new ones or rent them from sea side fishing outfitters.

 

 

 

DRESSING APPROPRIATELY

 

Remember that you are out to go fishing, wear the appropriate attire or anything you wouldn’t mind getting wet or smelly. Leave your cell phone, jewellery and anything you might lose during the trip. The ocean weather can be erratic, it’s best to bring extra clothes in case it rains, or it gets cold. Don’t forget your cap and sunglasses, these accessories will provide you ample sun protection. Bring a towel as well; it’ll help drying you off if you get wet.

 

 

ANYTHING ELSE?

 

Aside from your fishing gear, there are a lot of equipment and supplies you might want to bring with you, just in case you might need them. Ocean fishing can trigger many unplanned happenings, so it’s best to be prepared for the worst.

 

 

 

PLANNING THE TRIP

 

Now you know what to bring, you can now plan your trip, where to fish, and where to find a chartered boat. You have a choice of either going solo or go ocean fishing with a party via a chartered boat. I recommend the latter, particularly for less experienced and beginners to ocean fishing. A chartered boat usually has the right equipment, licenses and the accompanying guide that will prove helpful especially in finding fish. Plus, having a companion with you will make the trip more enjoyable. Do not forget to research the local laws and regulations for fishing in your destination, this will save you from having penalties for any violations committed.

 

 

ALL ABOARD!

 

 

Once you’re on board the boat, make sure to do these important safety tips.

Do not forget to bring sea sickness medicine, trust me this one you’ll thank me for later. Listen to the captain’s instructions and follow it accordingly; your safety is their top-most priority in this trip.

 

 

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

 

There are a lot of baits, and techniques to use depending on what you’re aiming to catch, seeking the advice of a local will be helpful since they’re more knowledgeable about it.

 

 

RELAX AMIGO!

 

While waiting for the fish to bite, you can grab a snack or cool drinks to keep you hydrated, this is a game of patience so just relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Change your bait regularly; never hesitate to try something new. If you’re not getting a bite, don’t be frustrated, seek the help of the captain or crew, their advice will be very helpful. Also remember to set realistic expectations, don’t go daydreaming of bringing home a large game fish, you might end up with nothing, but don’t be discouraged.

 

REELING IN THE PRIZE

 

Once you’ve got a bite, reel it in. If it’s a large game fish, the assistance o the crew might be needed, listen to their instructions and do as you’re told. Practice safety when handling fish, wear gloves if necessary. Do not keep any endangered species, keeping them will have penalties from the local government. Lastly do not forget to take a photo of your prized catch.

 

After a long day on the ocean, it’s great to bid goodbye to the setting sun before heading home. You may go home with a great catch or a bad one, but not all days will be gold, some days, life will throw you lemons. That’s the best thing about fishing, you’ll never know what’s going to happen. But don’t let your bad catch let you down, who knows, maybe you’ll catch that coveted Blue Marlin on your next trip.

I hope this article helped you in your quest to becoming a great angler or at least separated you as a beginner fisherman from a clueless man with a fishing rod. If you have any suggestions, feel free to comment below.

Keep posted everyone!