The ABCs of Sea Fishing Gear
Deep sea fishing is an adventure all its own, and requires equipment specifically designed for the sport. There are some similarities between saltwater and freshwater equipment, but there are differences, and the differences are important. Below is a short list of what to understand and look for when buying deep sea fishing rods and reels.
Specially Treated Metal
Saltwater can be very corrosive, so the metal parts on sea fishing equipment must treated to guard against corrosion and rust or be made of corrosion-resistant materials.
Fishing Rod Weight
Because the fish in the sea are usually large and heavy, deep sea fishing rods are heavier, stronger and more durable than their freshwater counterparts. If you aren’t ready to buy sea fishing rods and equipment, you can use your heavy duty freshwater gear, but only if you give them a thorough cleaning afterwards.
Fishing Rod Length
Depending on the type of fish you’re going after, the rod can be anywhere from two feet long to twenty feet long. Ten feet is the average, but the longer fishing rods are better for longer casts, and for setting the hook.
Fishing Rod Function
• If you’re going to be doing a lot of casting and retrieving of your fishing line, a spin cast rod is a good choice.
• When hunting the big “big game” fish, like shark or tuna, conventional spinning rods are your best bet.
• For surf fishing, you’ll need a surfcasting rod. They’re very long and very heavy so you can cast your line way out to where the big fish live.
• Fly fishing rods have recently become popular in saltwater fishing to cast streamers. These rods are thin and very flexible.
Fishing Rod Grips
For saltwater fishing the grip (handle) is usually made of foam or rubber. On high-end models, cork is the material of choice.
Fishing Rod Reels
The main function of the reel is to store and play out your fishing line. For saltwater fishing, they need to be made from corrosion and rust-resistant materials.
Reel Tools
Technology has given the fishing world some mechanical tools to help anglers land the big fish. One of these tools is the drag system, which affects how fast the fishing line plays out. As a result, the fish is easier to control, and the line is easier to reel in once the fish takes the bait.
Reels for Beginners
• If you’re a novice at deep sea fishing, a spinning reel could be a good choice. It’s an open-faced reel (the line on the spool is exposed) and attaches at the bottom of the rod.
A spin cast reel is similar, but instead of being exposed, the line is covered. This reel is also good for beginners, because it offers control of the cast with a push of the button. Hold the button, do your casting movement, and then release the button, and the line sails out smoothly and easily.
