Your Fishing Escape

If you are looking for excellent inshore and coastal fishing, try Louisiana saltwater fishing, which is renowned as some of the best fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Calcasieu Estuary, which is made up of the Calcasieu River and Ship Channel running from Lake Charles to the Gulf of Mexico, is a great place for such a journey, especially if you are looking to get your hands on some trout.

Of course, trout aren’t the only gamefish you’ll find in this area. There are plenty of different species to choose from, including speckled trout, redfish, and even a few stray flounder. You may also be able to reel in some sheepshead, ladyfish, and croakers, not to mention the various species of trout like black, drum, and sand trout.

Head out toward the oil platforms near shore and you may be able to locate some king or Spanish mackerel, tripletail, bluefish, snapper, pompano, bull redfish, cobia, jack crevalle, and even sharks. Obviously, with the right equipment and location, Louisiana fishing can offer a diverse crop of critters that will never disappoint an adventurous angler.

The first time you head out on a fishing excursion, you may do well to employ a guide who is familiar with the waters, the location for various types of fish to target, and the best baits to use to get to these fish. One of the favorite fish for first-timers is the bull redfish, also referred to by some as the bull red drum. Why are these species so popular among beginners? What advantage is there to the pursuit of this type of fishing?

First of all, in the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find that a lot of targeted species prefer deep waters, meaning that you have to take a boat offshore to find them. However, when targeting bull redfish, you can often carry a rod, reel, and ice chest out to your favorite spot on the shore and catch them in the surf. You can achieve success from some areas of the beach, work from a bridge, or even find a nice spot on a jetty from which you can cast a line.

Depending on how long you intend to stay and be patient, you may want to think about carrying along lawn chairs, an umbrella (to shield you from intense sun, especially when Louisiana saltwater fishing in the summer), a radio, refreshments (including plenty of liquids to keep hydrated), and anything else to set up for the day.

Flies sure have come a long way. Today there are dozens of specialized vices and tools as well as hundreds of supply outlets. And of course you can buy ready made fresh or saltwater fishing flies from anywhere in the world, with the click of a button. But one thing remains the same; the best flies are hand tied by people who tie from experience. And that’s what this article is about. We’re going to take a look at some of the best flies, for any fishing conditions and locals, hand tied by the true masters.

Let’s do this by region. If you are planning a fishing getaway this will give you time to get the best flies you need for where you want to go. And of course, it never hurts to try a new fly at you favorite local spot. You never know…

Starting in the northeast I bring your attention to Joe “Flycatcher” O’Clair. If the name sounds familiar, you might have heard it mentioned by fly tying legend and editor of Fly Tier Magazine, David Klausmeyer. David featured Joe as one of the “top 13 US fly tiers” in his fly tying hardcover classic; “Striped Bass Flies: Patterns of the Pros.”

A saltwater fly tying innovator, Joe has designed some great flies for fishing conditions common to many coastal anglers. Located on Cape Cod, he caters to the need for distance casting by beach bound anglers and saltwater flies that are visible, but natural looking, in the cloudy Atlantic waters of New England. Joe’s “Cone Head Deceivers” make the distance and sink rapidly. They do the trick nicely, working especially well on Striped Bass and Bluefish. http://www.FlycatcherFlies.com

If you’re looking for saltwater flies that work like magic from the coast of Nova Scotia down to the outer banks of Carolina, FlycatcherFlies.com should be your first stop.

Now we head down south to St. Petersburg, Florida and fly tying great Danny Sauvageau, of DansCustomFlies.com.

We visit with Dan for one of his latest creations, “Dan’s Weedless Shrimp” http://members.ij.net/danscustomflys/WeedlessShrimpPage.html. This little beauty is virtually snag proof and great for Seatrout, Snook, Bonefish, and just about anything else that will eat shrimp.

Dan has been designing and selling his award winning flies for over a decade. Next time you find yourself in his neck of the woods, a visit to his online store is a must.

Now let’s head over to the Pacific Northwest and http://www.adiposflytying.com. If you’re looking for great Salmon, Steelhead or Trout flies, look no further. The pros at Adipos got their experience fishing the best that British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, and Oregon have to offer.

These are rugged flies for hearty fish that are as at home in the Washington as they are west coastal Canada.

We finish our online pursuit of great saltwater fishing flies in Southern California with a visit to Gary Bulla of http://www.garybulla.com. Gary is one of the foremost experts in designing flies that work especially well for kayakers and surf casters going after Yellowfin Tuna and Roosterfish.

These are just a few of the great saltwater fly tiers out there. Most of them and countless others sell out of local bait and tackle shops as well so look around the next time you take a last minute fishing trip. There’s bound to be a local legend fly tier that has just the right fly for what you’re after.

Keep those lines tight!

There are various ways to maintain a well-balanced saltwater fish tank. It is better for the fish tank keepers learn these things to properly maintain a livable aquarium.

Saltwater tanks are more difficult to maintain because marine life inside has little tolerance to fluctuations. They are used to a stable habitat underwater. Therefore, the key to maintaining saltwater aquarium is copying the general conditions of the sea to your tank such that the marine fishes hardly notice the difference.

It is very useful to study marine life and science of it to start this hobby. It may be quite difficult at first, but if you understand the ecosystem underwater, this hobby will be easier and more interesting for you.

The tank needs a huge amount of water to make it more stable and absorbs shock more easily. This prevents disturbing the equilibrium of water and makes the tank more peaceful for marine life.

For instance, a dead fish will only create a minor imbalance in a big tank, but if it dies in a small tank, there will be dramatic changes.

Nutrient cycles are important to sustain a tank. First, dissolved oxygen comes in to the system over the water-air interface or by the activity of an air pump. The second one is the carbon dioxide which goes out of the system into the air. Other significant nutrient cycles are phosphate cycle, iron, sulfur, and micronutrients. These enter as food and escaping as waste substances.

Water conditions should be checked. Keep it free from dirt. Dead fish or other decaying corals should be removed at once to avoid contaminating the tank. Also check water salinity. It shouldn’t be too salty.

The saltwater is an alkaline, and the pH is the alkalinity or acidicity of fresh water. However, the hardness calculates total dissolved mineral content. In addition, the hard water is often alkaline and the soft water is always acidic. Other significant factors are dissolved organic content and dissolved gases content.

Chloramine is commonly used today because it is more stable. A saltwater fish tanks also need the presence of a mixture of salts and other minerals.

Other tanks are adapting to other water sources also. They change the alkaline content of water, the hardness, or dissolved content of gases and organics before putting it to the fish tank. Additives like sodium bicarbonate also help to raise pH.

The water that would be placed in the fish tank may also be filtered or purified in two different ways: deionization or reverse osmosis.

The water’s temperature creates the basis of one of the two primary fish tank classifications. These are the tropical and cold water. Most water plants and animals can only adapt with a limited range of water temperatures. It is important that the temperature is consistent to minimize fatalities in the tank. Use a thermostat and heater unit or cooling unit to help regulate the water temperature.

Water movement is also significant in perfectly imitating a natural environment. This can be manipulated by the use of aeration from powerheads, air pumps, and proper design of internal water flow like the path of the filtration system points of inflow and outflow.

Whether you’re a beginning fisherman or an experienced angler, books can be a helpful resource for learning about new trends, tricks, and tips in the world of saltwater fishing.

However, not all books are created equal. As a result, it’s important to know what you’re buying before you actually purchase it. It’s especially helpful to read various reviews (from users and other outside sources) to help determine whether buying the book would be a worthwhile investment of your time.

Fortunately, there are many great saltwater fishing books on the market today. One of these is “Saltwater Fishing Made Easy,” by Martin Pollizotto. This book focuses on giving a broad overview for anglers who fish primarily in North America.

One of the great things about this book is that it is fairly comprehensive, meaning that it gives a brief synopsis of everything from fishing methods and techniques to tackle and bait. It addresses some of these different areas in even more detail. For example, it touches on a variety of methods and techniques commonly used by saltwater fishermen, including surf casting, fly fishing, jigging, trolling, and chumming.

The book also contains information about 75 popular game fish that are found in the waters off the coast of North America. Pollizotto describes not only basic facts about the individual species, but also their feeding habits, preferred environments, and the best techniques for catching them.

The book also includes information on basic equipment (including rods, reels, baits, and boats). Other helpful information included in the book are instructions for tying various kinds of fishing knots, proper techniques for cleaning, scaling, and filleting your catch, and helpful advice regarding issues of safety and law.

Overall, this book is a great addition to any angler’s library. However, it is important to know that the book is designed as a kind of “how to” reference for beginners. If you’re a more experienced fisherman, you will still find parts of the book helpful (such as the section that addresses the individual species), but overall, this book is certainly designed with novice fishermen in mind.

Another book you might want to consider checking out is “Saltwater Fishing Tactics: Learn from the Experts at Saltwater Magazine.” This book compiles the expert accounts and tips that are often featured in the Saltwater Magazine. As a result, the book is a comprehensive look at the ins and outs of fishing. It addresses everything from charter fishing trips to pier fishing to basic tactics.

Another advantage to this book is the abundance of cool pictures scattered throughout its pages. Also, the book covers a wide spectrum of levels by offering tips specifically for beginners but also including helpful techniques for more advanced fishermen.

The great state of Texas is known for many things, one of which is great saltwater fishing. When you think of Texas, shorelines may not be your first impression but many anglers have discovered that there are great locations for saltwater fishing in Texas. You can be among them once you learn where and how.

Texas saltwater fishing along the Gulf Coast is an amazing adventure that can provide you with a lot of exciting stories to tell. With the wonderful weather southern Texas has to offer, you can go fishing all year long so it is great for vacationers that want to get away and enjoy some fishing during the winter months. So whether you live in Texas or just visiting, the saltwater fishing is always great.

There are many wonderful fishing areas for you to enjoy in Texas that provide a variety of saltwater species to make each of your trips a fun and exciting one. Below you will learn what saltwater species are available in Texas and where they can be found. Some of these locations are well-known while others are more remote areas that are still being discovered by many anglers. So what kind of saltwater fish can you expect to find in Texas?

Most Popular Texas Saltwater Species

You can find saltwater fish anywhere you find saltwater in the state of Texas but what kind of fish can you expect they will be? There are several popular Texas saltwater species located along the border that draws in anglers from all over. Galveston and South Padre Island are two well-known locations where you will find redfish, speckled trout and flounder. These areas provide some of the best and most exciting saltwater fishing in Texas. Anglers come from all over the nation to visit these locations. There are a lot of access points and jetties that help to make fishing easy and convenient along the coast of Galveston.

One area that is not quite so popular but should be is the Lower Laguna Madre. Here you will find redfish, speckled trout, tarpon, mangrove snapper and snook. This southern stretch of coastal land can be found between South Padre Island and Port Isabel and really does deserve your attention as it has some excellent fishing opportunities to offer.

The eastern and western parts of the Matagorda Bay each have a lot to offer when it comes to Texas saltwater fishing. It is a small bay where you will also find an abundance of speckled trout but many times it is overlooked and not given the recognition it really deserves. This is really a shame as it does have a lot to offer.

You will find flounder, redfish and trophy size speckled trout at Sabine Pass which is found at the Texas and Louisiana border. The abundances of redfish have made Rockport famous but you can also find flounder, black drum and speckled trout here. The Texas state record for trout was caught in Baffin Bay for two years straight.

Fly fishing is fast catching up as an adventure sport and hobby of sorts. Fly fishing is quite different from still fishing as fly fishing needs more technique and provides better game too. In fly fishing, saltwater fly fishing and freshwater fly fishing at the two demarcated zones. Obviously freshwater fly fishing is when you are fly fishing in lakes and rivers whereas saltwater fly fishing is done in the open seas.

 

Salt water fly fishing is actually quite different from freshwater fly fishing. Besides the place where fly fishing happens, saltwater fly fishing uses larger sized tackle and hence requires more strength and the experience to handle it. This is because of several factors which include the size of the fish in the sea which are considerably bigger. Secondly, you will have to cast longer lines in the open seas and the tides and wind always play spoil sport in the sea.

 

Fly fishing guides will repeatedly tell one to spend a lot on the equipment and specifically on the fishing rod and to spend less on the reel. The fishing rod obviously is the most important aspect and a good rod is essential. One does not necessarily have to go for a high tech high priced rod, but spending on a good rod would be a good idea. As for the reel, the amount you want to spend on it can depend on what you allocate for the rod and reel budget. But do take care to buy a reasonably good quality reel that is saltwater useable. There is no point buying a reel that gets rusted or corroded in saltwater easily. Even with a saltwater reel, one must take good care of the reel and wash it after use every time so it’s not exactly a maintenance free device either.

 

Fly fishing guides have a lot of recommendations for a person who plans to start of salt water fly fishing. Salt water fly fishing clearly is a little harder and dangerous than fly fishing in freshwaters and hence additional preparation is necessary. For starters, when salt water fly fishing, it is always good to have a spare rod in hand. The weather conditions and the fish themselves will play major roles in stressing the rod and hence an extra is always essential. Secondly always have secondary reel loaded with a line and also hold a wet tip which will allow for quick changeovers. A stripping guard is mandatory on your stripping finger. This is even truer in saltwater where a rope burn could occur in your fingers when you are not prepared to release the line in quick reaction. Injuring your finger and exposing it to salty conditions are not desirable at all during salt water fly fishing. Safety is essential like any fly fishing guide says and hence if you plan on salt water fishing off shore, always wear fly fishing vests that are reflective, waterproof and visible at all times. Similarly when going into the sea, it is always essential that you check weather conditions, tides and have all those details and maps on you to assist you on your fly fishing trip.

Salmon fishing is one of the most preferred fishing sports around the world. Salmon fish is one of the most popular fishes, as far as human consumption goes. Saltwater salmon fishing got new heights eventually as these fish are taken from their saltwater marine environment by commercial trawlers in million of numbers and the data is increasing every year. Because of their taste, abundance and fight, salmon is a highly prized fish of all. There is a number of species of salmon that can be found on freshwater, but most alluring of them are available in saltwater. Saltwater salmon fishing is a must in order to bring them to the table or the trophy plaque.

Saltwater salmons are difficult to catch without using a “bottom bouncing” technique. For example, fish like Coho and Sockeye – who feed primarily off of plankton in the ocean – can be difficult to catch unless in their saltwater environment, same is the case of salmon as well. The economy of the entire towns of West Coast of North America and in particular Alaska and British Columbia is largely based on the saltwater salmon fishing industry. Apart from these, several spots on Vancouver Island enjoy a rivalry as the best salmon fishing spots in Canada, including the towns of Port Alberni and Campbell River.

Recreational saltwater salmon fishing can take place in a couple of different ways. The most preferred way is through a private chartered company as there are a number of companies all over coastal areas who assist you to take such trips. Some of these companies are located in incredibly secluded spots such as Bella Coola. You need to fly in on specially chartered planes to enjoy the unique salmon fishing experience in this paradise. There are several other towns, which see a huge business in salmon fishing round the year. Salmons are most available during the start of spring and continue coming on the shores until late fall.

Salmon Fishing Trips

Salmon fishing trips can be booked for as little as a few hours or for as long as a week or more according to the preference and budget of the enthusiasts. There are companies those have infrastructures which provide lodging for fishing guests as well as the guides, boats and other equipment needed for an exciting vacation out on the water for saltwater salmon fishing.

One can also take any private route as well for saltwater salmon fishing and if you are fortunate enough to live near the ocean or have friends who do, it can add up to your pleasures. Private boats as well as charters are easily available which are usually equipped with sonar equipment allowing to locate schools of salmon and increases the odds of a successful outing. Just remember, when you go out on the ocean, you are dealing with nature in one of its most powerful and uncompromising elements. Conditions can change suddenly and a boat is very vulnerable to all kinds of weather. Remember to carry all your survival gear and make sure to consult forecasts before you head out.

Things that are necessary to carry when you are out for saltwater salmon fishing:

Like mentioned above, going out on the ocean without any experienced guide on the ocean is absolutely NOT recommended at all! The ocean demands a massive amount of respect and there are too many factors that make ocean fishing a dangerous sport for those who are inexperienced. Apart from the wise head, who need to accompany you, the followings are some practical helps (other then you fishing gears) that you need to bag before you out in the waters.

1. Flares

2. First aid kits

3. Fire extinguisher

4. Maps or GPS

5. VHF radio

6. Bail bucket or pump

7. Cell phone

1. Wet weather jacket, pants and boots

2. Extra layers of clothing

3. Hat (with draw string preferably)

4. Extra socks

5. Sun screen

6. Cell phone

7. Large cooler for fish

8. Saltwater fishing license and appropriate tags if applicable

9. Camera

10. Gravol (a medicine that help to prevent sea sickness)

 

Saltwater fishing in Texas is famous for its big beef, big hair, and big fish. It is indeed true what the pundits say, that everything is big in Texas. As it is the biggest state in the lower 48 one wouldn’t expect anything more. Bigger isn’t any better, but if ones talking about saltwater fishing then it is true. There are hardly any places where you could find better or bigger than the Texas saltwater fishing.

This type of fishing is as wild as it gets. It is a very good place for a vacation. It has great sites, beautiful food and good fishing. It never matters if you need to head to lower, upper or middle coast, saltwater fishing here is pretty hotter when compared to a Tex – Mex summer in a heat wave. You can head to the coast for having fun on the surf with your family. Do try to ride over Galveston Bay and Texas City. You would also find few oyster reefs just right to wade in. There are also great fishes to be had. The speckled and redfish are real wonders.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip of saltwater fishing in Texas then find a charter and head to the Mexican Gulf. You would find the best fishing out in the seas. Be it the amberjack, snapper, tuna, bull fish, sharks or ling you would find something or the other there. There is a lot to do on a trip like this in Texas. It could be a very important getaway for few or may be a very good family vacation.

If you need extra information on a trip to saltwater fishing in Texas, you could contact the local charter companies to get to know their reports on fishing. You could also look up on local guides to find out what you could do. Even if these local charters or guides don’t give you the correct information, you needn’t panic because you could always browse the net and check out the adventures that you could have in saltwater fishing in Texas. The internet is indeed very helpful to check reports on fishing, to find charter and guide information, articles on saltwater fishing, gears and the things that one would want to know about a trip to Texas. Even pictures are available so that you get to see what kind of trip is ahead of you!

Texas has a lot of and great American history. It is jus not for fishing and fun, but a place where one could check out what made the country such a wonderful place. You would also find attractions in the form of beaches, theme parks, Very good Tex – Mex and home cooked food, and cultural experiences. Take you own time to plan a trip to Texas to check out every possible thing specifically the saltwater fishing which is exciting to an individual as well as for a family.

Fishing in Saltwater

There will always be challenges when one decides to either fish in the river or in the open sea. The important thing to remember is to have patience while waiting for the fish and doing your best to catch it when it appears.

Before you start fishing you should check the State’s regulations to determine if a license is needed.  It helps to become acquainted with fishing regulations as they can vary from one state to the other.

The first thing one needs for saltwater fishing is a boat.  It can range from a simple rowboat to a yacht. The size of the vessel depends on how many people will join the trip.

For people who fish inshore, a 15 foot sailboat with a cuddy forward that can serve as shelter when it rains should do the job. The boat should not be heavy, but adequately sturdy, so not to be swayed by the action of strong waves or some bumps on the beach or rocks.

When fishing, one should always try the edges of the perimeter first instead of plopping bait or lure in the middle. This is because it will scare the other fish away. By using the sides first, one will have a better chance of catching unsuspecting fish in the middle.

The right time to start saltwater fishing is on the ebb tide. This should be during an early time of the morning to ensure the trip will be a productive one. This will put the tide in one’s favor and if the wind is light or not fair, this will also help in going home quickly.

The best place to start fishing is going to a fishing ground that is well known to the locals.

Many anglers who are too impatient move from one spot to another which at times causes these people to miss a hot spot. It is advisable to cast out a couple of times before moving on using different types of bait. This should be done from the shallowest to the deepest point.

Sharks in the area can disrupt people from catching fish. By pouring some fish blood on a paper towel or newspaper and rolling it into a ball then casting it overboard, sharks will follow the current and leave the area increasing the chances of catching fish.

When you embark on any kind of trip or excursion, you’ll need some sort of expert information in order to prepare yourself for the trials and tribulations you may experience along the way. Of all the various things you can do, leaving for a trip without saltwater fishing tips could be devastating, leaving you without any knowledge of the best techniques and locations so that your trip is fruitless. However, if you equip yourself with tips prior to setting sail out to sea, you’ll have a great time and return home with an incredible catch.

Start by choosing the type of fish you wish to target. For example, let’s say that you are looking for redfish. These are found readily along the Gulf Coast in the Gulf of Mexico. These beasts enjoy the shallows, so you won’t need to target deep waters. In fact, before going out, you may want to find an extremely shallow bottom boat so that you can float the marshy areas close to the shore, looking for redfish lying near the surface of these waters.

Other tips refer specifically to striped bass. If you are targeting these popular saltwater fish, you may want to plan a trip to Chesapeake Bay in Virginia in the early or mid spring. They tend to gather here after a long winter further south, near Florida, to spawn and then head north as far as Maine, making the New England states another great location to fish for striped bass.

Some tips reflect mainly on technique for catching a specific type of fish. For example, consider for a moment the flounder. These flat fish like to stay close to the bottom of the sea or ocean in which they are residing and park themselves usually near underwater structures such as reefs and sunken wreckages. Flounder also prefer cooler temperatures, so you’ll find that most saltwater tips for catching flounder will direct you away from warmer climates like Florida and further north where the waters stay cooler. Most tips found on flounder will also recommend mullet as bait, with mud minnows and live shrimp being the best backup.

You may find tips on the best locations to produce fish in general without targeting a specific species. For example, in the winter, when fishing is not as easy or productive, most tips will point anglers to warmer areas, such as the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean south down near Florida for the best catch available. This is because many saltwater species migrate down to the warmer waters to wait out the cold prior to returning to their natural habitats for spawning in the spring.

Spotted Seatrout

In 2007, Spotted seatrout was the most popular catch among marine recreational anglers . The species is caught in the Gulf of Mexico and the south Atlantic regions, which have the highest combined concentration of saltwater anglers in the nation.

6.8 million fish were caught in 2006. One encouraging statistic is that 75 percent of spotted seatrout caught by recreational anglers are released to grow. In Florida speckled trout are often the most sought after gamefish.

Redfish

Redfish are common in the southern USA. Redfish inhabit shallow bays and esturaries, targeting crustaceans and baitfish. They are highly prized as a recreational fish. Some redfish anglers compete in national tournaments that are similar to freshwater bass fishing events. These beautiful fish are also known as red drum.

Red Snapper

Red snapper is one of the most sought after and highly prized Gulf Coast fish. Red snapper is low in saturated fat and sodium and is a very good source of protein. In 2006, Over 4.5 million pounds of red snapper, valued at over $13 million, were caught commercially in the USA.

Spot

Spot are named and identified by the distinctive dark spot above the pectoral fin It is also known as lafayette, goody, or Norfolk spot. Spot are common from Cape Cod to Florida and through the Gulf of Mexico. The species is considered both a valuable commercial and recreational species throughout its range.

Spot rarely exceed 10 inches in length. The fish are highly sought after as a food fish by both commercial and recreational fishermen. These panfish are abundant in near-shore oceanic areas, coastal bays, and estuaries.

Pinfish

Pinfish, also known as sailor’s choice, or pin perch is one of the most common inshore fish. It ranges from Massachusetts through the Gulf of Mexico. Pinfish known to coastal anglers as a “bait stealer,” but are sought after as a bait for other larger fish. Pinfish are abundant from Virginia south. They occur over a wide variety of bottom types but prefer vegetated bottoms. Pinfish can tolerate wide variations in temperature and salinity conditions. Pinfish reach lengths of about 15 inches, although most pinfish are 4-8 inches in length and are usually considered as baitfish.

Pigfish

Pigfish are colorful members of the grunt family. They are marked with a bluish upper and a silver lower body. Each scale has a blue center and bronze edge, which forms a series of yellow-brown stripes on the sides and sometimes exhibits orange bands on the snout and head. The full range of pigfish extends from Massachusetts through the Gulf of Mexico, although they are rare north of Virginia. Pigfish are caught by recreational anglers and considered to be a good quality food fish.

Pigfish have limited commercial importance, and most commercial landings come as pigfish are mixed with other grunt species. Pigfish are also used as live bait especially in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Pigfish reach lengths of about 18 inches, with a maximum weight of about 2 pounds. Pigfish are short lived and rarely exceed 3 years of age.

Florida Pompano

Florida Pompano range from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico as well as in parts of South America. Florida Pompano are schooling fish that are often found in the surf. They average 1-2 lbs, are are highly regarded as a food fish. Florida pompano are said to bring the highest price per pound of any fish in the United States.

Blueline Tilefish

Blueline or gray tilefish (Caulolatilus microps) are another species of tilefish. They also burrow and sometimes live in communities along the bottom. Adults weigh an average of 10-25 pounds. Blueline Tilefish have firm, white meat with a mild flavor.

Amberjacks

Amberjacks are large saltwater fish that love structure such as reefs, shipwrecks and rocky outcrops. These hard fighting fish are caught live lining baits around oil rigs, wrecks, reefs and other hotspots.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna are a favorite among anglers in many parts of the USA and worldwide. These fish are found where ever there is warm water and pods of baitfish. Yellowfin travel in groups and their aggressive feeding habits sometimes get them in trouble as anglers.

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi, also known as dorado or dolphin fish are fast growing, pelagic fish. They are among the most beautiful of all fish. Younger fish school in large numbers, orienting to sargasso weed or floating debri. Larger fish are loners or travel in small groups, but still orient to floating structure. The males develop a blunt forehead and grow larger than the females, sometimes reaching lengths of 5 feet and weighing 30-50 lbs.

Wahoo

Wahoo live in the open ocean and are common along much of the USA and Caribbean. The beautiful fish are caught in a variety of ways including trolling, jigging, fly fishing, kite fishing, live baiting and others. Their razor sharp teeth and incredible speed make wahoo a very difficult fish to land.

The rich marine environment off the coast of Massachusetts provides an idea habitat for baitfish, which in turn feed larger species. The following list of species includes some of the inshore fish that thrive in Massachusetts waters.

 

Striped Bass

Striped bass have several regional names. Known as striped bass, stripers, linesides, rockfish and other names, this fish is highly sought after as a recreational fish, as a commercial species and is even grown in aquaculture operations. Striped bass are fished for extensively in New England and are caught along the shore, around structure and by fishing baits and lures along rips, shoals and other structure.

Weakfish

Weakfish are beautiful fish. Typically, fish have a dark olive back, iridescent blue and copper sides and a silvery white belly. Other identifying features are yellow fins, large canine teeth in the upper jaw and dark spots on the upper part of the body, sometimes forming diagonal lines. Most adult weakfish range from 12 to 18 inches but can grow up to to 3 feet long and weigh 4-18 pounds.

The name “weakfish” comes from the fish’s fragile mouth, which tears easily when hooked. Weakfish are members of the drum family, which includes spot, red drum, back drum and Atlantic croaker. This family of fish make a drumming or croaking sound by vibrating its swim bladder using special muscles.

Bluefish

Bluefish are exciting to catch and are highly sought after in New England. They are found all along the coast, sometimes in large schools.
The fish are voracious feeders and are known for their sharp teeth and ability to demolish even the strongest tackle.

Atlantic Cod

Atlantic cod are caught along the Northeast coast of North American and in many parts of the North Atlantic Ocean. Cod are cool water fish. They have a delicious mild white flesh and are well suited for a variety of cooking methods. Cod are highly prized by both recreational anglers and by the New England groundfishing fleet.

Atlantic Haddock

Haddock is mild white fish known for its excellent table quality. Haddock is a great source of low-fat protein and is high in magnesium and selenium.

Fresh haddock has a fine white flesh and can be cooked in the same ways as cod. Small fresh haddock and cod fillets are often sold as scrod in New England The term refers to the size of the fish which have a variety of sizes, i.e. scrod, markets, and cows.

Tautog

Tautog or blackfish are long lived fish that live along the New England coast. Tautog live in structure such as rocky bottoms, wreckages and reefs.

Tautog are a challenge to catch and thrilling to fish for. The fish live in and around structure such as rocky bottoms, sunken ships and artificial reefs. Tackle and techniques are simple and no prior experience is needed to catch these tasty fish. They vary in size from about 12 inches to perhaps 12 lbs or more. They are very tough fighters and excellent table fare.

Scup

Scup or porgy, ranges from the Mid Atlantic Bight from Cape Cod, MA to Cape Hatteras, NC. Scup, or “porgy,” known for its fine flavor and as an aggresive fish that anglers enjoy targeting. Scup are also an important commercial species in New England and to a lesser extent in the southern part of its range. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council jointly manage scup coastwide.

Fluke (Summer Flounder)

Fluke, also known as summer flounder are primarily found around inlets, jetties and dropoffs. They feed on a variety of small fish and crustaceans. Fluke are an important commercial and recreational fish throughout New England.

Winter Flounder

Winter flounder are an important commercial and recreational fish throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Inshore habitat degradation and overfishing have contributed to serious stock declines throughout the species’ range, leaving both fisheries at a fraction of their historical numbers.

Yellowtail Flounder

Yellowtail flounder reach maximum sizes of roughly 22 inches total length and 2.2 pounds in weight. They are found along the Atlantic coast of North America from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Labrador, and Newfoundland to the Chesapeake Bay. Yellowtail flounder prefer sandy bottoms in waters between 130 and 230 feet.

Saltwater fishing off Alabama’s Atlantic coast is some of the sweetest and most productive on the East coast. Part of the reason for this is the diversity of species commonly caught. Another bonus for the locals or anglers who choose Alabama as an angling vacation destination is the fact that the southern climes allow for a long and comfortable warm season.

Alabama has long been known for its Southern charm and hospitality so rest assured that you will find plenty of people to help you and point you in the right direction for any questions you might have, whether fishing or other activities you might be involved in while there.

A Diversity of Species to be Found

Are you an aficionado of night angling? Be prepared for some serious Flounder action. The tasty “flatfish” are bountiful on the sandbars of Mobile Bay. You can wade or approach quietly in a shallow draft vessel. The only other things you need are a lighting system and a gig. These rascals are experts at

camouflaging themselves with the sand, so look for the telltale hump with an eye.

There aren’t too many fishing sights as exhilarating as watching a well-hooked Dolphin (also known in the restaurant as Mahi-Mahi or Dorado because exotic names warrant higher prices) leaping from the water displaying a rainbow of colors.

You can land the smaller ones, up to about ten pounds, close to shore from early May through October. The larger ones can be found farther out. The best way to locate Dolphin is to first locate a driftline (otherwise known as a “rip”). The driftline serves as structure for smaller bait fish and this is what the Dolphin prey on.

Once you’ve found one, look for action in the water and cast into it. This is where the real fishing begins. The trick is to leave that first fish on a stringer in the water. This will attract more of them and you can cast at your leisure.

More Shallow Water Angling

Do you like to fish shallow water? Alabama flats offer ample opportunity to land Redfish. These Reds like going shallow where they can feast on some of their favorite treats – small crustaceans.

To get up front and personal with this tasty fish wading is a good option, and the best way to get to the hot spots are by kayak or Florida flats-boats. Either way once you get there you’ll have to find the fish.

Look for Reds that are “tailing”, that is, swimming in water that is so shallow that their dorsal fins are out of the water waving around. This is a sure sign that they are feeding on small crabs and the like.

If you like a spinning reel, a gold spoon works well. If the flats are weedy, use a weedless rig or bait a hook with a live shrimp and toss it into the weeds. The Reds can find it by scent. But since Reds can be skittish, fly fishing is very effective. A low impact delivery armed with a small crab fly generally brings good results

There are many reasons why you should make your own salt-water fishing plugs. First, of course, is to save some money since the larger plugs are quite expensive if purchased. Anglers lose more salt-water plugs than fresh-water plugs. It is possible to fish with one plug in fresh-water for many years. But you’re lucky if you don’t lose some salt-water plugs in a few days of fishing.

The fishing line may break on a cast, or the plug gets tangled in rocks, piles, or weeds. Also, the big salt-water fish are always breaking lines and taking the plugs with them. Finally, the wear and tear on salt-water plugs quickly ruins the paint and the wood body and rusts the hooks. A salt-water fisherman continually has to replace lost or ruined plugs.

Furthermore, fishing with salt-water plugs is comparatively new. Fishing with such plugs didn’t really become popular until after World War II, so there is still plenty of room for experimentation. Many salt-water anglers, especially surf anglers, are always trying to create new plugs or improve the old ones. They add stronger hooks, rearrange hooks, make plugs of different shapes, sizes, and weights, and try out different color schemes.

Salt-water plugs can also be made from cedar, and this is the best wood to use for the smaller type plugs. This light wood has the buoyancy to support metal parts such as lips, screw eyes, screws, and hooks without sinking. The use of cedar is especially important when making surface plugs. But cedar may be too light for the larger-sized salt-water plugs, unless loaded with lead. Hence, many surf anglers who use big plugs make them from heavier woods such as birch, fir, maple, and walnut.

Even such hard woods as ash, oak, and hickory have been used when a heavy salt-water plug is required. However, these woods are tough to cut, drill, or shape with hand tools, and they do not support too many hardware parts without sinking. In fact, when making any salt-water surface plugs it is necessary to check carefully to make certain that the wood body will support the metal plates, screw eyes, hooks, and other hardware without sinking.

In salt-water fishing the deadliest type of plug is usually a surface model. The easiest plug of this type to make is the simple popper This plug can be about 6 1/2 in. long and have a diameter of 1 1/8, in. The head can be straight cut at a 45-degree angle. The plug is equipped with three 5/0 extra-strong treble hooks.

The quickest way to attach these hooks to the body is by means of screw eyes, which should be fairly large and of heavy wire with long, deep threads. The best screw eyes are made of brass since they don’t rust in salt water. However, you can use galvanized iron screws if they are heavy and strong.

If this popper is made from a heavy wood it will cast far without additional weight. But if you use light wood or want as heavy a plug as possible, add some lead to the tail end of the plug. You drill a hole and plug it up with a round chunk of lead. If you make a tight fit you can tap in the lead after putting some cement in the hole.

Heavy screw eyes will usually prove satisfactory as hook holders and for attaching the line to the plugs described here. For stronger plugs, however, attach the hooks by using hook hangers similar to the one used for fresh-water plugs. For salt-water plugs, such a hook hanger must be heavier than that used for fresh-water plugs. You can make such hook hangers by using a brass piece I 1/2 in. long by 1/4 in. wide and 1/32 in. thick. File the brass in a bench vise then bend it with round-nosed and flat-nosed pliers.

The lure is not too difficult to make, and once made, you should enjoy great success fishing. Good luck!

Saltwater fishing gear has a different job to do over the other types of fishing gear on the market. When you walk into your favorite fishing shop or you look at the ads on the web, it pays to know what you are looking for and why that is the best choice. For those venturing out into the world of saltwater fishing, it is essential that with you comes the very best equipment for the job. There are several things to think about purchasing and each should be designed to accommodate the harsh conditions that saltwater brings to you and to your gear over time.

Perhaps the most consistent questions and the first thing to think about when considering saltwater fishing, is gear. Knowing what equipment to select really can make a difference in the successfulness of your fishing. One great rule of thumb is to get educated before you buy. Research online, shop around, and consider renting from a charter or rental service, at least initially, to help defray the start up costs of saltwater fishing and allow you to find a perfect match before making the substantial investment that comes with saltwater fishing.

Basically, you just need bigger, more heavy duty equipment when saltwater fishing. You also need to be meticulous about equipment maintenance when saltwater fishing. Fishing equipment for saltwater usage needs to be built for the job otherwise it will not be able to handle it.

Most tackle manufacturers consistently sell more five or eight weight rods in nine foot lengths than any other. There is a reason for this. If you are fishing for anything other than the largest game fish, these rods will pretty much do the deed for you, depending on conditions and the type of fish for which you are fishing. If you are fishing for something like speckled trout in a bay like setting where waters are relatively calm, a five weight rod will work quite well. If you are fishing in grass flats or surf areas where conditions are much windier, an eight weight will provide the substance you need for such conditions. Still, if you can only choose one rod, you might want to consider a set up such as a “Salt-6″ Recently manufacturers have made great six weight rods that have hardware specially for salt water fishing. With fighting butts and this special hardware, a salt six is a great choice.

When it comes to reels for saltwater fishing, it is important to note that they do not have to be fancy or sophisticated, but since salt is very corrosive, they must be made of appropriate materials such as corrosion resistant parts that are easy to keep clean with consistent rinsing and care. As a general rule, if you can choose only one reel, if you choose a single action reel that is andonized, has a disc drag, and can carry in the neighborhood of one to two hundred yards of backing, you should be happy with your choices.

For fishing the salt flats and bays, nothing works better than a weight forward floating line. If you are fishing in the surf, you might be happier using a slow sinking line to help keep your fly below the choppiness of the water and keep your line from being dragged all over the place by the surf.

The ultimate guide to keeping happy,healthy marine life (fish, corals and other invertebrates) and how to optimally set up a saltwater aquarium and maintain a pristine environment for your pets. Includes “How to make money from your aquarium” bonus items.
Ultimate Secrets to Saltwater Fish and Invertebrates

The ultimate guide to keeping happy,healthy marine life (fish, corals and other invertebrates) and how to optimally set up a saltwater aquarium and maintain a pristine environment for your pets. Includes “How to make money from your aquarium” bonus items.
Ultimate Secrets to Saltwater Fish and Invertebrates

The ultimate guide to keeping happy,healthy marine life (fish, corals and other invertebrates) and how to optimally set up a saltwater aquarium and maintain a pristine environment for your pets. Includes “How to make money from your aquarium” bonus items.
Ultimate Secrets to Saltwater Fish and Invertebrates

There are so many different saltwater species that you can fish for that you are never at a loss for the various choices of fish. However, whatever choice you make, you’ll want to know the best ways to target the species. One of the favored pastimes for many anglers is saltwater speckled trout fishing. When you start to look at the habits of these fish, you’ll find that seeking them out on a fishing excursion could actually be a very specialized sport.

First of all, speckled trout will lead you to underwater structure, even in the shallows. Like so many other saltwater species, trout like to position themselves near depressions, oyster beds, sandbars, and other structures (including drop-offs), even in the flats. Of course, they really prefer the drop-offs close to deep water or on the drop’s edge, especially if they can find a mangrove cover. You may also want to take your saltwater speckled trout fishing close to bridges, fallen trees, docked boats, jetties, and rock piles, as they tend to be hot spots for trout.

When you are fishing for big trout, you may want to consider wade fishing instead of taking a boat. These larger specimens often position themselves in the flats but are hard to sight cast, meaning you can rarely find them before they spot you. Therefore, fishing without a boat to warn them ahead of time gives you a bit more of an advantage. Also, it can be best at night because this is the time that trout typically feed. You’ll find less boat traffic and larger trout coming out of hiding after dark, so you may benefit from finding a lighted dock off which you can join into saltwater speckled trout fishing at night.

You’ll find from your trout fishing trips that these are lazy fish. They don’t like to work for a meal and will take advantage of opportunistic feeding. However, if you really want to attract a big trout, use big bait. Big trout are serious about big meals, and the giants of the waters have been known to attack a smaller trout that’s been caught while it’s being reeled in as though this was the bat. Use large, live baits for trout fishing, and you are guaranteed a good catch.

If you can find big trout in the winter, try saltwater speckled trout fishing with live baits like pinfish, yellow tail, and mullet along the shoreline in the mangroves near deep water. You are sure to find some large species craving a big meal here.

Mid Atlantic saltwater fishing is characterized by some of the nation’s most sought after species of fish. These include hard fighting fish such as red drum, black drum, striped bass, bluefish, cobia, speckled trout and others.

Black drum are heavy bodied fish with barbels or whiskers under the chin. Adults are typically 30-15 pounds although trophy fish can exceed 100 pounds. Black drum are members of the croaker family, most of which have the ability to produce croaking or drumming sounds.

Anglers fish for black drum using surf clams, hard clams, peeler crabs and other baits. Tackle is simple but stout, with most anglers using 20-30 lb line, sinkers from 3-8 oz and a single hook rig. Many anglers use circle hooks which work well with these fish. Top baits include surf clams, quahogs and peeler crabs.

Red drum are another large member of the croaker family, sometimes exceeding 50 lbs. Also known as channel bass, redfish and spot tail bass, these fish are easily recognized by their reddish-copper color and black spot or spots on the tail. In 2007, the species was designated as a protected game fish. The red drum is also the state fish of North Carolina.

Depending on the location, anglers use a variety of techniques to catch red drum. Throughout most of the Mid Atlantic region, these beautiful fish are caught while surf fishing. Anglers fish with cut spot, whole mullet, crabs or other baits, using fish finder rigs and medium tackle. A large number of anglers choose to release large red drum, taking only a photo to remember the experience by.

Spotted sea trout, also known as speckled trout are common throughout North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland. The fish are known for their beautiful pattern of black spots on an olive-green or gray back, silver-blue sides and a white belly. Spotted sea trout range from 12 -32 inches in length and weigh up to 10 pounds.

Speckled trout are caught using a variety of methods including fishing with live bait, cut bait and casting artificial lures or fly fishing. Shallow water fishing for speckled trout using artificial lures is popular in much of the region. Anglers cast small jigs, soft plastics and other lures around the edges of grass beds, stumps, points, rips and other likely areas. Fly fishermen also target these areas, fishing a variety of flies that mimic bay local baits such as bay anchovies, mullet, spot, shrimp or blue crabs.

In some areas, speckled trout can be caught by anchoring and bottom fishing with live or baits. Fish are sometimes caught in deep water along a channel edge, but most bait fishing for specks occurs around grass beds in shallow water. In areas such as the Chesapeake Bay, peeler and soft crab baits are popular while North Carolina anglers are more likely to fish with live shrimp or spot.

Striped bass are highly sought after by Mid Atlantic anglers. Also known as rockfish or stripers, these heavy bodied fish follow a predictable life cycle. The major nursery for Atlantic striped bass stocks is the Chesapeake Bay. Young fish feed and grow in shallow estuaries until they are large enough to leave the bay. Some adults remain in the bay but the majority spend their adult lives migrating seasonally along the coast from New England to the Carolinas.

During the fall and winter, the Mid Atlantic coast and Chesapeake Bay has outstanding fishing, with trophy striped bass being caught. These fish congregate in the Chesapeake and along of the Atlantic Coast to feed on migrating baitfish. Fishing can be spectacular and often is very productive, even in foul winter weather.

Light tackle jigging is an easy technique for catching striped bass. Tackle is simple for this type of fishing, with a variety of outfits from 8-30 lb used depending on the situation. Popular jigs include bucktails, metal jigs, soft plastics and other lures.

Wire line trolling works in many locations where striped bass can be found. Working with wire line is a bit difficult to get used to but the results are very consistent. Rods are spooled with #30 monel or other types of wire. Terminal tackle includes a 3 way swivel. A 24 or 28 oz. sinker is added on 3-4′ section of #30 mono. The third part of the swivel gets a 20-30′ leader with either a single lure or a pair of jigs.

Live baiting is another productive technique for catching striped bass. Baits include clams, crabs, eels, small fish, shrimp, and other baits. These vary with season and location. Fishermen choose live baits depending on availability and personal preference. Some anglers obtain live baits from local tackle shops while others catch their own.

Bluefish are an exciting Mid Atlantic gamefish. They are found from Maine to Florida. The fish are voracious feeders and are known for their sharp teeth and ability to demolish even the strongest tackle. Bluefish have been known to gather in schools that cover an area of ocean equivalent to 10,000 football fields.

Along the USA east coast, bluefish can be found along shorelines, inlets, jetties, beaches and areas where rips form such as sharp bends or channel edges. Many of these locations are ideal for shorebound fishermen. Fishing opportunities also exist for boaters, including areas where bluefish congregate in large numbers. Bluefish often work bait to the surface and their location given away by birds or when their backs or tails appear above the surface. Other anglers chum with ground menhaden or mackerel in order to bring bluefish within casting range.

Blue Catfish are the largest American catfish. They can grow to over 55 inches long and can weigh over than 100 pounds, living up to 25 years. Adult blue catfish have stout bodies with prominently humped back in front of the dorsal fin. They have deeply forked tails similar to channel catfish, but lack spots and have a large straight edged anal fin.

The Mid Atlantic has some of the best fishing for blue catfish in the country. Popular areas for catching blue catfish include the James, Rappahannock, Chickahominy, Mattoponi and Shendandoah rivers. In tidal areas such as the James River, blue catfish have adapted to saltwater tidal flows and actively move into position to feed as the tide brings baitfish into range.

Blue cat anglers fish baits such as shad around structure where big catfish lurk. Fishing for blue catfish has quickly become a trophy catch and release fishery in tidal sections of rivers and the anglers who fish for them often share skills and tips.

Cobia are among the largest and most exciting gamefish of the Mid Atlantic region. They are striking fish, with sleek, brightly striped bodies. The fish are brown above, with a very visible black stripe along the lateral line, and white below. They have a wide blunt head, large mouth and deeply forked tail. Averaging 15 to 30 pounds, they can reach more than 100 pounds and nearly 6 feet in length.

Cobia fishermen use a variety of outfits, depending on the type of fishing. Some anglers may choose light outfits, while others employ stronger gear as these fish can reach weights of 100 lbs. For sight casting baits or lures, most anglers use a spinning or baitcasting outfit in the 20-30 lb range. Other situations such as chumming require similar or slightly heavier conventional reels. Because of the cobia’s size and searing runs, a smooth drag and fresh, durable line is essential.

Live baits for cobia include spot, menhaden, mullet, minnows, perch, eels, shrimp, crabs, clams and other baits. These vary with season and location. Fishermen choose live baits depending on availability and personal preference. Some anglers will find live baits in local tackle shops while others need to catch their own.