Inshore Fishing vs Offshore Fishing: Key Differences

Inshore fishing is a fun, accessible way to get out on the water and catch fish without needing a large boat or venturing too far offshore. This beginner’s guide covers everything you need to know to get started with inshore fishing.

What is Inshore Fishing?

Inshore fishing refers to fishing close to shore, usually within a few miles of the coastline. It occurs in relatively shallow waters less than 30 meters deep.

Common inshore fishing locations include:

• Bays
• Flats
• Mangroves
• Estuaries
• Backwaters
• Tidal rivers
• Creeks
• Inlets
• Harbor areas

Inshore anglers typically target smaller species like:

• Redfish
• Snook
• Speckled trout
• Flounder
• Snapper
• Sheepshead
• Crevalle Jack
• Ladyfish
• Croaker
• Spot
• Whiting

Inshore Fishing vs. Offshore Fishing

Inshore Fishing	Offshore Fishing
Within a few miles of shore	Over 20-30 miles offshore
Shallow water less than 30m deep	Deep ocean water over 30m deep
Calmer water	Open ocean with rougher water
Smaller fish species	Larger pelagic fish species
Smaller boats and tackle	Larger boats and heavier tackle

The main differences between inshore and offshore fishing come down to distance from shore, water depth, targeted species, and equipment used. Inshore offers a more accessible experience closer to shore going after smaller inshore fish. Offshore requires bigger boats and gear to go further offshore and catch larger game fish.

Inshore Fishing Gear

Having the right inshore fishing gear makes catching fish much easier. Here’s what you need:

Rod and Reel Size

• Rod: Medium power, 6-7ft spinning rod. A fast or extra fast action works well.
• Reel: Spinning reel with smooth drag in size 2500-4000. Larger sizes hold more line.
• Line: 10-20 lb braided line is ideal for sensitivity and strength. Fluorocarbon leader can also be used.

Terminal Tackle

• Hooks – 1/0 to 3/0 live bait hooks, circle hooks for cut bait
• Sinkers – 1/4 to 1 oz egg, sputnik, or slip sinkers. Heavier for currents.
• Leader – 20-30lb fluorocarbon leader helps bait visibility.
• Swivels – Barrel swivels when using leader.

Lures

• Soft plastic baits – Paddletails, shrimp imitations, jerkbaits
• Hard lures – Poppers, spoons, shallow diving crankbaits
• Jigs – Bucktail, paddle tail jigs bounce off bottom

Bait

• Live – Shrimp, mullet, croaker, menhaden. Use aerated livewell.
• Cut – Squid, mullet, ladyfish. Bring a sharp knife.

Other Gear

• Landing net – Rubber nets better for fish
• Pliers – Hemostats for hook removal
• Fishing gloves – Protects hands from fins/teeth
• Tackle storage – Plano boxes to organize tackle
• Cooler with ice – Keep fish and drinks cold

Best Inshore Fishing Boats

Small, shallow draft boats under 25ft excel for inshore fishing. Popular options include:

• Jon boats
• Bay boats
• Flats boats
• Skiffs
• Canoes/kayaks

Key features for inshore boats:

• Shallow draft to access shallow water
• Poling platform for sight fishing
• Livewell to keep bait alive
• Plenty of rod holders
• Anchoring system – Anchor, pole, or trolling motor
• Leaning post or seats – Comfortable boat control
• Storage – For gear and catches

Tips for Inshore Fishing Success

• Fish early morning and late afternoon when fish are most active
• Target structure like docks, mangroves, oyster beds
• Watch for fish activity like baitfish or birds diving
• Adjust tactics based on conditions and fish behavior
• Vary retrieves until you get bites
• Use live bait for best results
• Be stealthy in shallow clear water
• Check tide and moon phases. Fish feed more on moving water.
• Don’t forget the sunscreen and drinks!

FAQ

Summary

Inshore fishing is an accessible way to catch a variety of fish species without venturing too far offshore. With the right boat and tackle, you’ll be hooked on the fun and excitement of inshore fishing in no time!