Outdoor Blog

Inshore vs Offshore Fishing: Everything You Need to Know

Published

3 years ago

July 24, 2021

Most people think that inshore and offshore fishing are more similar than different, but that’s not true.

There are lots of differences that separate inshore and offshore fishing. Not only the location of where you are, but the type of fish and type of bait are different as well. All the differences do depend on where you are in relation to the shore.

What is Inshore Fishing?

Inshore fishing takes place between zero and nine miles away from the shore in order to be considered inshore fishing. Also, the depth of the water should be anywhere up to 100 feet deep.

Fly fishing is one of the varieties of inshore fishing.

Because of how close to the shore you are, inshore fishing is much calmer than offshore fishing. The water isn’t near as intense as it can be when offshore fishing. Inshore fishing is most popular in freshwater lakes and rivers.

What is Offshore Fishing?

Often referred to as deep-sea fishing, offshore fishing is when you’re more than nine miles away from shore. Most of the time, offshore fishing takes place about 20 or 30 miles out. When you go offshore fishing, you need to dedicate the whole day to it.

It can take anywhere between half a day to two days to reach the right area to fish it. You also need a lot more equipment to go deep-sea fishing than you do when inshore fishing.

Main Differences

Here are the main differences between inshore and offshore fishing:

Fishing boats
Type of bait
Species of fish
Weather and time of year
Expense
Equipment
Attention required

Fishing Boats

The type of boat that you will need to go offshore fishing is a big game fishing boat. You’ll need to get out deep into the sea or lake you’re on, so the boat needs lots of fuel and speed. Most people who go deep-sea fishing will charter a boat so they don’t have to buy a boat.

Most beaches have companies that will take you deep sea fishing. You shouldn’t go deep sea fishing if you get seasick easily because it can get quite rocky out there, and while the boat is bigger than regular fishing boats, it’s not big enough to not rock with the waves.

Inshore fishing boats are a little bit more lowkey than offshore fishing boats. These boats are smaller, but they are very fast. You can use a motorboat, or you can use a boat that doesn’t have a motor like a rowboat, canoe, or kayak. This usually depends on where you want to stay. A motorboat would be better for rivers because you can stay in one spot instead of going with the current.

Type of Bait

When offshore fishing, you definitely need to use heavy bait. The fish are much bigger the deeper the water is, so it’s important to have bait that suits the type of fish that you’re catching. Live bait works, but dead bait is usually best. Definitely don’t use fake bait for this type of fishing because the smell of real bait will be what attracts them.

Inshore fishing is a bit more relaxed when it comes to the kind of bait you need. You obviously can’t use super big bait because the fish won’t be as big, but light tackle is very inexpensive. You can use live or dead and real or fake. Some people even make their own fake worms using plastic resin and natural plastic. Also, you can reuse them!

Species of Fish

The types of fish that you catch are one of the biggest differences between the two types of fishing. When deep-sea fishing, you’re going to catch larger fish, like wahoo, amberjack, marlin, and tuna. You can also catch sharks! Some other fish that you might snag while offshore fishing is tarpon, kingfish, cobia, and mahi-mahi.

Flounder fish are very common catches in shallow water.

The fish you catch when inshore fishing is much smaller in size. However, you’re more likely to catch more fish when inshore fishing than you are when offshore fishing. Some fish that you’ll catch when inshore fishing is snapper, snook, redfish, flounder, and striped bass. Some other fish that you could catch are speckled trout and grouper.

Weather and Time of Year

Offshore fishing can sometimes be heavily disrupted by the weather and season. Fish behavior is much different when it’s raining or storming, so it’s much harder to gauge what the fish are going to do. Significant weather like that can also affect the sonar technology used when offshore fishing, so you should try to pick a chartering company that will work with you if the weather is rough on the day you picked.

Inshore fishing is a lot easier to do in the rain than offshore fishing. It’s also much more consistent throughout the year than deep-sea fishing. Smaller fish don’t care as much about the weather as big fish, so you don’t have to worry about them changing their patterns when the weather acts up. They also don’t care what time of year it is.

Expense

It’s very possible to rack up a big bill when planning an offshore fishing trip. Everything about them is incredibly expensive. They require very heavy-duty equipment that you might not want to buy because you don’t go deep-sea fishing super often.

So, you rent a fishing charter to take you out to sea, and those are not cheap at all. You should be careful and mindful of the price you’re paying so you’re not getting cheated out of a good experience because you spent so much money.

On the other hand, inshore fishing is a lot less expensive. You might also have to charter a boat if you don’t have one, but you could also rent kayaks or canoes. You won’t be using all of the equipment that offshore fishing uses, so you don’t need to worry about finding any of that. You can also just skip a boat altogether and fish off a pier if you wanted to.

Equipment

Many people use sonar, GPS, and fishing tracking equipment when offshore fishing. Everything about offshore fishing is just bigger than inshore fishing. The fishing poles that you need to use will have to be a lot sturdier because they need to catch bigger fish.

You can’t just use the same pole that you catch redfish with because there’s a massive difference in size. Inshore fishing is much more lowkey. You can use any kind of fishing rod that you want because the fish don’t require one that’s super thick.

You’ll still probably need to use a fish tracking device while inshore fishing because it will help you catch the most fish.

Attention Required

When deep-sea fishing, you can actually walk away from your fishing pole. This is one of the main reasons why it’s very popular for bachelor parties. Offshore fishing usually means that you catch fewer fish, therefore you don’t need to hover over your pole.

You obviously still need to be paying some attention to your pole so you don’t miss your chance on a prize marlin or shark, but you can take your eye off your fishing reel for a few minutes here and there until it’s a spinning reel. With inshore fishing, you’re more likely to be catching lots of fish.

You need to be paying lots of attention to your fishing reel. You also can’t necessarily walk away from your rod if you’re on a kayak. Fishing should probably be the main thing on your mind when inshore fishing.

Fishing Rods and Reels

There are specific fishing rods meant for saltwater fishing. If you’re interested in getting your own saltwater fishing rod, you should check out what Amazon has to offer. If you’re more interested in inshore fishing, you should get a lighter rod that has a spinning reel. You’ll also use a lighter line when inshore fishing.

Types of Fishing

The main types of fishing are:

Fly fishing
Trolling
Drifting
Still fishing
Dock fishing
Popping

Fly Fishing

Many people think of fly fishing as an art form. Everything about fly fishing depends on the variety of fish that you’re trying to catch. Fly fishing got its name because the bait used is called fly bait. There are three different kinds of flies: nymphs, streamers, and dry flies.

Dry flies are the most common kind of fly, and they sit on top of the water to imitate a fly. Nymphs mimic water invertebrates by floating just under the surface of the water. Streamers copy the behavior of leeches or other aquatic life.

Water conditions, type of fish, and location all impact which flies you should use. The final huge difference between fly fishing and regular fishing is the way that you cast the line. You should let out about a rod and a half of line by casting the rod behind you and letting go until you have the perfect length. If done correctly, the fish should think that a fly or bug has landed on the surface of the water.

Trolling

Trolling usually works best in a motorboat. When trolling, you’re essentially pulling the hooked lure behind you in a moving boat. It doesn’t matter how many lines you have in the water at a time because the point of this fishing method is to trick the fish into thinking that the bait is swimming through the water.

There are several different ways to do the trolling method. The most common type of fish that you’ll catch when trolling depends on where you’re fishing and the type of equipment you use. However, don’t be surprised if you catch barracuda, wahoo, and kingfish when saltwater fishing.

When trolling in freshwater, you’ll most likely catch sturgeon, bass, and walleye. The main thing that you should remember when trolling is that speed is of the essence.

Drifting

When drifting, you usually let the boat that you’re using move with the current of the water over different fish habitats. The depth of your bait doesn’t matter when drift fishing. Natural bait works the best when drift fishing; however, lures and jigs work just as well too.

Drifting also works best on ponds, lakes, and rivers because the water is a little bit calmer than the ocean. You don’t want to be caught up in severe waves when drifting. You’ll need to have a weight on the end of your line to ensure that it’s near the bottom of the water.

The most common kinds of saltwater fish caught when drifting are mahi-mahi, kingfish, and redfish. If you’re in a motorboat, you can leave the motor on very low to ensure that you’re moving if the current is too weak to actually move you around the water.

Still Fishing

This is the simplest method of fishing, but it can have very good results. It’s what most people think of when they think of fishing. All you have to do is put your bait in the water and wait for a fish to bite it. It catches the most fish because it can be done from everywhere. You can still fish from a boat, jetty, shore, or dock.

You can also still fish in any depth, but it works best in shallow water or deep water. You also need to use a bobber or float to make it easier to fish in shallow water. In deeper water, you should use weights on your line to make the bait go deeper.

Dock Fishing

Dock fishing is a type of inshore fishing that doesn’t require a boat or the expenses that come with it.

Dock fishing is just like it sounds; you’re just fishing from a dock. You’ll obviously be catching inshore fish because docks don’t go out super far into the water. You’ll probably catch spotted bass, flounder, and snook.

Popping

Pop fishing is often referred to as one of the most exciting methods of fishing. You get to be more in the action of fishing. You pop fish by using a lure called a popper along the surface in quick fetching motions. The popper jumps across the water and makes a sound that pops.

You need more of a long-distance rod to pop fish correctly. You’ll definitely need the popper lure because it’s what gives the fishing method its name. The type of fish that you catch when popping is tuna, kingfish, and striped bass. There are also specific charters that specialize in pop fishing.

Conclusion

Whichever type of fishing you try, there are several differences between the two. You can try both kinds and decide which you like best. Offshore fishing is a bit more expensive and you catch less fish. However, you won’t catch a once-in-a-lifetime fish when inshore fishing. Both kinds have their advantages, so it just depends on which you enjoy the most.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter