The debate over saltwater vs. freshwater has been ongoing for quite some time. Blogs and forums will give you a lot of mixed responses. You’ll need to have different equipment if you fish in saltwater and freshwater. Below are some details about each type.
Freshwater fishing
Freshwater is the preferred choice for most anglers. It’s cheaper than fishing in saltwater. A decent fishing rod, line, and hook are essential for beginners. Fishing can be done from bridges over streams or rivers, lakes or ponds, and even from boats on lakes. Even if you don’t catch anything, it can be very relaxing to fish in freshwater.
Freshwater Fish Types
Freshwater fish are smaller than saltwater fish, but they are easier to catch. Freshwater is also less turbulent than saltwater.
Unless the water has been stocked with other types of fish, the fish you catch in freshwater will vary depending on where you live. These are the most common fish you will find:
* Black Crappie
* Channel catfish
* Largemouth bass
* Rainbow trout
* Walleye
Equipment for Freshwater fishing
A good rod and reel will give you the best results. If you have to deal with fish struggling on your line, you will want a reel that won’t break. You might also need bait spinning, bait casting, and telescopic reels. You can use both live and artificial bait. The most popular ones are minnows and crickets.
Saltwater Fishing
Saltwater fishing is very different from freshwater. You won’t be able fish in saltwater unless you are near the shore. It’s going to be a lot harder if you have the opportunity to fish in saltwater. Saltwater fish will be much more aggressive than freshwater fish. Fishing in saltwater can be done from a boat or a pier. You can fish in back bays or estuaries if you are feeling adventurous.
Saltwater Fish
Saltwater fish are typically larger than their freshwater counterparts so you will have to fight to catch them. This will make fishing and reeling more challenging, but it will also be more fun.
Saltwater fish include:
* Bluefish
* King salmon
* Pacific halibut
* Redfish
* Striped bass
You should be aware that any of these fishes you are able to catch will fight. This is why saltwater fish fishing is so beloved.
Fishing Equipment to Saltwater Fish
Equipment that can withstand strong ocean currents, harsh weather and other elements is essential. You can choose between a shorter rod to increase your power and a longer rod to allow you to cast farther distances depending on how you intend to land your fish. Trolling, bait casting, spinning and jigging are all important parts of your tackle.
You should also have the standard equipment to fish, such as a gaff or nets that can handle any fish found near your boat. You should consider that ocean currents will be stronger than freshwater ones, so make sure you get the best equipment. Also, make sure you are protected from the sea spray.
There are other differences between saltwater and freshwater fishing
The biggest difference between the two is the size of the fish. A blue marlin can be caught in saltwater and measures 14 feet in length. It weighs 1,900 lbs. Freshwater fishing will only allow you to catch fish up to 3 feet long and as much as 16 pounds. Freshwater fishing will bring you fish such as trout, catfish, and bass. Saltwater could bring you a shark or an octopus.
You’ll have a great time fishing in saltwater or freshwater. It’s a good idea for you to try each one and find what you enjoy the most. You might end up liking them both equally.
The article was written by a professional charter captain at Salty Knots Fishing Charters with 15+ years of experience in the Gulf of Mexico. Salty Knots Fishing Charters is a local fishing charter service based out of St. Pete Beach, Florida. “We know what it takes to catch a giant trophy fish!” Salty Knots Is the best when it comes to Deep Sea Fishing St Pete Beach.