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5 Tips for Transitioning From Freshwater Angler to Hardcore Saltwater Angler

Maybe you recently moved closer to the ocean. Perhaps years of saltwater veterans describing legendary tarpon runs and epic sailfish battles finally convinced you. Whatever the reason, you have decided to switch from freshwater fishing to hardcore saltwater angling. While there can be overlap between the two, saltwater fishing is an entirely different beast. That said, it is undoubtedly worth it. So, invest in a boat, a saltwater rod and reel, some high-performance fishing apparel, and strap in.

Invest in High-Quality Gear

If you thought freshwater fishing could get gear-heavy, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. If you are intent on becoming a self-sufficient saltwater angler, you’ll need to be prepared to invest in high-quality gear. The array of technology found on a fully outfitted saltwater fishing boat can cost as much or more than a luxury car. Plus, in addition to staple gear like rods, reels, hooks, lures, and more, there is a whole world of specialized gear for kite-fishing, deep-dropping, and more.

Stay Comfortable and Dress the Part

If you consider yourself something of an expert in any type of boating, you know being comfortable for as long as possible is high-priority. Still, saltwater boat fishing can present its own unique challenges. You may be fishing dozens of miles from shore under the blazing sun with little to no cover, so dressing the part is critical. Pick up professional-grade performance fishing gear, shirts, and masks to be sure you’re protected and staying cool at all times.

Do Your Research

In addition to the protection high-performance fishing apparel provides, the best way to stay safe and successful as an angler is by doing research. Safety conditions for saltwater fishing will often vary according to season, tides, time of day, and even the phases of the moon. Saltwater fishing adds a heightened opportunity for intensity and excitement to your angling, so earn your confidence by doing proper research before hitting the water.

Learn the Gear and the Knots

Familiarize yourself with saltwater fishing gear and fishing knots. Again, there will likely be crossover from the gear and knots used for freshwater angling, but there will also be plenty to learn. Mastering knots like the Bimini twist, double Palomar, dropper loops, and the uni knot are all excellent places to start.

Remember, Saltwater Is Corrosive

Accounting for the corrosiveness of saltwater is a lesson you’d rather not learn the hard way. Keep this fact in mind for all of your gear after any fishing trip. A recently-used reel, for instance, shouldn’t be left on the rod after use. Bone up on reel care, for instance, like how to lubricate reels and soak them in freshwater after a saltwater excursion. Put in this work to be sure you’re ready when your next urge to hit the open ocean comes calling.

As is the case with any new hobby or worthwhile experience, saltwater fishing presents a bit of a learning curve if you want to be successful. Be patient, link up with some veterans, learn the ropes, and you will be making others jealous with stories of your latest saltwater expedition in no time.

About Gillz®

Kent Hickman has been passionate about fishing for his entire life. That love was stoked by growing up near the world-class fisheries of his native Florida, which he hit at every opportunity. As an adult, that same passion for angling brought him to the professional fishing tournament circuit. However, Kent soon found it nearly impossible to get his hands on fishing apparel that reliably stood up to the harsh, demanding conditions Florida’s anglers face daily. Kent recognized that anglers needed fishing apparel just as hardcore as they were to keep them comfortable and cool while on the water. That gear had to protect them from the elements, the blazing heat, and the unrelenting UV rays of the Florida sun. That’s why Kent founded Gillz® in 2009 to ensure all hardcore anglers, from Florida to Maine and beyond, had access to high-performance, high-tech, professional-grade, and always stylish fishing clothes. Gillz® gear now includes fishing shirts, polarized sunglasses, hats, fishing masks, accessories, and more.

Gear up with Gillz® high-performance fishing apparel for the best saltwater fishing experience at https://gillz-gear.com/

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