When you take up fishing as a hobby, there are countless techniques and types of fishing you can partake in. In this brief overview, we go over the difference between inshore and offshore fishing so that you can determine which is best to try first. By the end of this quick read, you will better understand which type of fishing suits you and your skill set.
What Is Inshore Fishing?
Inshore fishing is when the fisher stays close to shore—typically under 15 miles. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean the person doing the fishing is standing onshore. You can perform inshore fishing from a small boat, beach, or pier. If you use a boat, you will usually need a smaller vessel because the water is shallower.
What Is Offshore Fishing?
Contrary to inshore fishing, offshore fishing involves taking a larger vessel out to open waters. The boat is usually 15 miles or more away from shore and the coastline. This type of fishing provides many opportunities for the fisher to find several different fish species you wouldn’t find closer to shore. However, you’re more likely to become seasick because you won’t have a constant view of the horizon due to being further away from the coast.
The Main Differences Between Inshore and Offshore Fishing
Aside from the distance from shore, there are some other differences between inshore and offshore fishing. Because offshore fishing will be in deeper waters, the waves might be larger, causing more turbulence. In comparison, the waters are calmer during inshore fishing. Usually, a shorter fishing trip occurs inshore, and a longer trip occurs offshore.
Some might find inshore fishing more difficult. The heightened difficulty stems from the increased number of obstacles in the water, such as sand bars, rocks, or underwater plants. These obstacles mean you also need different gear depending on where you’re fishing. For example, you will want to buy the best offshore lures to ensure you have the right equipment to catch the type of fish in deeper waters.
While both types of fishing are similar in essence, they are different in several other aspects.
Which Type of Fishing Should You Try?
For beginner fishers, participating in inshore or offshore fishing is up to you. Both provide great experiences and opportunities to catch different species of fish. If you get motion sick from the water, we recommend starting with inshore fishing. Your choice may depend on how much time you have, the type of boat and equipment available, the kind of fish you’re looking to catch, and how comfortable you are.
Now that you know more about each type of fishing, which one do you think you’ll try first? Or will you try both? The world of fishing is waiting for you to dip your toes in the water and try something new!
