What is Inshore Fishing | Difference, Equipment & More

Inshore fishing refers to a fishing practice that takes place within a few miles of the shoreline. The exact meaning of inshore fishing varies from angler to angler, but commonly, inshore fishing takes place in waters up to thirty meters deep.

If you are planning to go inshore fishing, there are multiple things you should know about, which I will explain to you in detail.

Table of Contents

Understanding Inshore Fishing

Inshore fishing, in simple terms, means fishing that occurs in shallow water. The water for inshore fishing is much calmer and mellow. Anglers consider inshore fishing to be more difficult because they have to face many obstacles, including rocks and underwater plants, that make the casting and reeling troublesome.

You can go inshore fishing either by boat, from the pier, or from the beach. You do not need any kind of big or high-tech boards to go inshore fishing; instead, a smaller boat will suffice.

Inshore Fishing Vs Offshore Fishing

The major difference between inshore fishing and offshore fishing is related to the depth, meaning how deep the water is. Fishing techniques for both of them are the same, but due to the change in depth, your fishing experience will be different. As I said above, inshore fishing is when you are fishing within 9 miles of shoreline and in 30 meters deep water or even less.

In offshore fishing, you can also see unpredictable weather conditions compared to inshore fishing. I prefer both of them, but sometimes, when I am in the mood to catch some bigger fish, I go offshore fishing.

If you want to know which one is better, I will say it all depends on your preference and what kind of fish you want to catch. However, I will advise that if you get seasickness, then go for inshore fishing.

Inshore Fish Species

Another difference between inshore fishing and offshore fishing is the type of fish you will catch. In offshore fishing, anglers will be able to catch powerful and large fish species, including Bluefins, Dorado, King Mackerel, etc. Whereas in inshore fishing, you can only catch small fish.

If you have enough experience in inshore fishing and have the appropriate bait, trust me, you will be able to catch plenty of fish. The following are the most popular choices when it comes to inshore fishing:

Sea Trout
Redfish
Tarpon
Red Drum
Flounder
Striped Bass
Bonefish
Barracuda
Snook
Spanish Mackerel

Inshore Equipment and Boat

Just like I said above, while going for inshore fishing, you do not need a big boat, instead, look for a small boat. Look for smaller and agile boats that can move effortlessly in areas closer to shore. Typically, the best boat will be one that falls in a range between 18 to 25 feet in length. You can also check about What Is The Major Danger Of Anchoring A Fish Boat From Stern?

Whereas for offshore fishing, you need a big boat because you often spend a full day or even multiple days out at sea. The boat must at least have a sleeping quarter and bathroom. When going for inshore fishing, load your boat with fishing features, including rod storage and live bait, as well as a casting platform.

Besides the boat, you also need fishing gear, including a fishing rod (medium-power), live bait, and reels. Since the fish you find inshore tends to be smaller, you will need lighter equipment to handle them. If you plan to go fishing in deep water, then your equipment must also be bigger and more expensive.

Now, let me give you some useful tips for inshore fishing. Tips will help you a lot, especially if you are a beginner.

When going for inshore fishing, practice casting more to prevent getting your bait into leaves or other obstacles.
Inshore fishing is best for those who often get seasickness.
Always be prepared for the worst while going inshore fishing, such as if the wind suddenly picks up, you have to be prepared for a bumpy ride.

Concluding Statement

To sum up, inshore fishing refers to fishing that occurs within a few miles of the shoreline. Typically, you will catch small fish species, including Tarpan, Sea Drum, etc, whereas in offshore fishing, you will catch massive targets. Inshore fishing is the best option for those who often get seasickness.

The equipment or fishing gear for inshore fishing needs to be light since the fish you will be handling are smaller. The boat also needs to be smaller, about 18 to 25 feet in length. You can go for either inshore or offshore fishing, depending on your preferences and the type of fish you want to catch.