Although fishing on the open ocean is obviously a different type of fishing than fishing in a lake or river, it might seem to most people that it is basically the same. After all, both activities involve a pole, some water, and some fish. The similarities, however, are in appearance only.
The differences between chartering a boat and heading out for big fish are so vastly different that even if you prepare correctly, you might end up underestimating the nature of deep fishing and wind up not being able to enjoy the experience to its fish-finding potential. That said, you should enjoy yourself if you keep in mind three important things: muscle, gear, and policy.
1. Physical preparation
Physical preparation involves at least attempting to develop your arm and leg muscles prior to boarding the ship. When you are fishing for large fish, it can take up to an hour or more to actually reel in the catch. If you have ever attempted to flex your arm, back, and leg muscles for more than a few minutes, you will be able to understand how tired you are going to get after fighting a fish for an hour or more.
In addition to building your arm and leg muscles, you should prepare by strengthening your lower back muscles. Although a ship will have a harness that will help keep you grounded and help prevent back injury, your back will thank you if it is stronger. Simply put, a weak back is not fit for fishing on open water.
2. Lotion
Although the ocean involves more water than is imaginable, it also involves a lot of sun. What many people do not realize is that the sun reflects off the water. In effect, passengers are getting double the dose of sun. To protect yourself from burns or skin damage, you need to bring lotion with you and lather up every three hours.
3. Motion sickness
Unlike the waves on a lake, the waves on the ocean are similar to hills on a road over which a car drives. As a result, the boat will bob up and down. After an hour or so, it is quite normal for people to begin vomiting or feeling sick. After spending so much money on the boat passage, it would be an absolute waste to have the trip ruined due to illness. Consequently, you should take the pills for motion sickness prior to heading out onto the water.
4. Gear
Your gear should include everything you might want while you sit at home watching a three-hour movie because when you are fishing, you will be sitting for quite some time in the same place. Of course, when you are fishing, the rods can be fixed into place, allowing you to get up and walk around. However, once you get a bite, you will be planted in your harness as you attempt to haul in the fish. As such, you might need someone to give you water or a bite to eat as you struggle. Additional gear might include a hat for sun protection as well as a jacket because the winds on the water can chill right through you.
5. The wrong guide
Most people do not understand that they have the wrong guide until they are out on the water. At this point, the realization is not worth much. In order to have the best experience, you should partake in fishing charters on the Gold Coast. Doing so will provide you the best scenery, the best fishing experience, and the best crew. Additionally, you will receive options for a half day or full day. Other benefits include training on how to snag a variety of hard-to-haul fish, such as snapper, tuna, and marlin.
6. Food
As with any outdoor adventure, you should bring jerky or granola to help keep you energized. Additional types of food include sandwiches, depending on whether meals are served while you are out at sea. If no meals are served, you should pack a cooler with enough food, drinks, and fun to last the entire afternoon.
7. Relief
Simply put, you should head for the bathroom before the fish strikes.
8. Dividing the catch
Many charter vessels keep a portion of the fish that is caught. You need to check the policy regarding how catches are divided and how a fish is prepared for mounting. Discovering the details after your prized fish is chopped up is too late.
About the Author:
Mark is the owner and director of True Blue Fishing companyw and a passionate deep sea fisher. He has a wealth of experience about the wonders of fishing. He aims to share his years of expertise to enhance the experience of those seeking fun and knowledge in this type of adventure.
