Can you name the biggest fish ever caught while deep sea fishing?
The world record honor dates back to 1959 to an Australian man named Alfred Dean. Using a porpoise as bait, he reeled in a white shark that weighed a staggering 2,664 pounds!
Chances are you won’t break that world record anytime soon. Still, if the open water calls to you, you’re sure to have a terrific time on the deep sea.
What exactly is deep shore fishing? How is it different from fishing inland or near the coast? We’ll dive into those answers and more, so keep reading!
Inshore vs Deep Sea Fishing: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy enough to understand that deep sea fishing is different than fishing on a lake or even the Intercoastal Waterway. The question is: How far offshore do you have to go before you’re considered “deep?”
Rather than measuring in distance from shore, the definition of deep sea fishing is measured by the depth of the water. In most states, 30 meters (or 98 feet) is the accepted depth for deep sea fishing.
Depending on your locale and the layout of the seafloor, this could be just a few miles from the beach. In other areas with shallow waters (such as the Bahamas or the Gulf of Mexico), you may have to venture many miles (often 20-50 miles) offshore before you reach waters that deep.
Fun Facts About Deep Sea Fishing
Now that you understand what deep sea fishing is, there are some must know tips and facts to learn before you head out on the water.
For starters, you’ll need to pack more than a picnic lunch for a deep sea fishing excursion. Since the boat will travel so far offshore, you’re looking at a minimum of 12 to 72 hours for a fishing trip.
Out here, you’ll find the lure of big game fish that serious fishermen find irresistible. Tuna, marlin, swordfish, wahoo, and sharks are plentiful in these deep waters — and you’ll need more than a skinny fishing pole to reel one in.
Deep sea fishing watercraft are large boats equipped with the latest technology for finding and catching these big fish. Expect to see lots of radios, radars, and weather equipment onboard. Most charters boats will also use SONAR to “see” into the water and locate schools of fish nearby.
There are two main methods of deep sea fishing: trolling and bottom fishing. Trolling involves pulling multiple lines of baited fish slowly behind a moving boat. Bottom fishing involves dropping lines deeper (closer to the ocean floor) to attract bottom-feeding fish and sharks.
Looking for Deep Sea Fishing Near Me?
Fishing on a lake or the Intercoastal waterway is enjoyable and relaxing, but deep sea fishing takes your experience to a whole new level.
If you’ve never tried it, be sure to schedule a trip soon. Grab a few of your closest friends and get ready to see who can reel in the biggest catch!
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