“Specialty” Gear for Inshore Fishing

Article by: Capt. Rick Bennett

Through almost twenty-three years of professional fishing, I have learned many ways to make fishing from a boat easier and more productive. Today, let’s focus on inshore fishing. And for our discussion gear can encompass every aspect of boat fishing.

Arguably, the most important piece of gear is your boat. Through the years I have had several. Two were bad, two were good and two were great. I won’t mention the bad and the good, but the great were a 23 foot Parker SE and a 24 foot Nautic Star Bay. Most boaters have different feelings about the various outboard motors available, but with one exception early on, all of mine were Yamaha. When choosing a boat, keep in mind what you are going to be doing. Simply stated, you are going to be taking strangers fishing. My Nautic Star was a Cadillac, until it came time to sell it. We all want first class equipment, but I found out too late that first class does not always mean most expensive. Remember your boat cost is a negative to your bottom line. In today’s market most boats are expensive, but many are more reasonable. Look around and not always at the highest dollar boats.

Fishing is work, it certainly is the kind of work we love, but anything that makes it easier makes it better. I would not have a boat without two important pieces of equipment: a trolling motor and a shallow water anchoring system. Today you can get a trolling motor that deploys and returns to the deck with a push of a button. Additionally, another button will keep you in one spot, essentially anchored without an anchor, chain and rope with which to deal. Shallow water anchoring systems make moving from one dock to the next very easy.

If you are going to fish very shallow water, a hydraulic jack plate can be important to move your outboard up and down. My last boat had one and it made the difference in getting to a low water spot many times. A dependable VHF radio is very good to have on board. I know you are inshore and everyone has a cell phone, but what about listening to the boat chatter and fishing information you might hear? It can be good stuff I promise. But, do not forget your cell phone.

Other items I consider a must would include the following: Pliers, including needle nose, wire cutters, braid cutters, and slip joint. A gaff is necessary for the unexpected. Usually a three foot gaff with a 3” hook will be sufficient. A landing net is a must. I like the lite weight rubber ones. A Boga Grip comes in handy for securing a thrashing fish for hook removal or a quick photo. A First Aid kit is recommended, again for the unexpected. In today’s cancer awareness world, SPF clothing and hats or Buffs along with quality sunscreen are all considered in the must have category.

I am sure you can think of items to add to the list like rain gear, but who minds getting a little wet… at least when it is hot. The above mentioned items are a good start toward making your fishing safer and more enjoyable.

I hope you are enjoying these articles on fishing inshore and near shore fishes. Check back often for future articles, and good fishing.

Capt. Rick Bennett, Ret.
www.rod-man.com
rodman@rod-man.com

Capt. Rick Bennett

A lifetime fisherman, Capt. Rick Bennett, better known as the Rod-Man,has retired from the day to day activities as a charter boat captain but does offer “ON YOUR BOAT” Guided Fishing Trips. Capt. Rick will show you the when, the where and the how. From rod and reel selection to terminal tackle to bait, Capt. Rick has the know how.