Saltwater Fishing vs. Freshwater Fishing What You Need To Know

Saltwater Fishing vs. Freshwater Fishing: What You Need To Know

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Fishing in saltwater and freshwater is often more different than many people imagine. After all, choosing a fishing spot is more than simply selecting a location. These two types of fishing are very different activities that demand different approaches and equipment. Below are the key differences between saltwater fishing vs. freshwater fishing that you should know before starting your fishing adventure.

What to Expect From a Freshwater Experience 

Freshwater fishing on a large lake, pond, or river can be a relaxing activity. It is often one where you can sit back and even engage in other activities while fishing. The intent is usually to escape the daily grind, relax quietly, and hopefully catch some trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, or other freshwater fish. 

This activity is typically slow and relatively quiet, even once you hook a fish. This gives you a chance to escape and regroup without much distraction.

What to Expect From a Saltwater Experience

Saltwater or ocean fishing is often quite rigorous. Hooking a sturgeon, cod, tuna, swordfish, or other larger ocean fish can be exhilarating yet time-consuming, sometimes demanding over an hour to land one. Saltwater fish are generally larger, stronger, and more difficult to catch. This means there is more strength and stamina required from you. There is also a fair amount of downtime during saltwater fishing trips, you just need to also spring into action faster.

Equipment Needs

The bigger the catch, the larger the gear you will require. Saltwater rods and reels tend to be longer, thicker, and heavier than freshwater equipment. This is to endure the additional fight from the larger fish. Even the lures are larger to entice those bigger, more active saltwater fish. Saltwater rods are usually made from flexible fiberglass that withstand salt to avoid corrosion. 

While some saltwater gear can be used for freshwater fishing, the reverse is not true. This is due to the lightweight nature and style of freshwater rods. Many freshwater rods and reels are designed to be easy to carry in any out of remote locations. These will simply not withstand the fight of a larger saltwater fish. 

Enjoy the Experience

Freshwater fishers can enjoy their surroundings, and even participate in other activities when on the outing. You can marvel at the natural surroundings, rest or take a hike, visit with your companions, and enjoy the freedom of a freshwater fishing weekend.

When you are fishing in saltwater, you are confined to a boat that is often some distance from the mainland. The primary focus is often on catching the “big one,” your attention is almost exclusively directed toward fishing. But, when you catch at least one of those larger fish, the whole experience will be worth it.

Saltwater Fishing Can Be More Dangerous

Another main difference between saltwater fishing vs. freshwater fishing is certain factors can make saltwater fishing more dangerous, but experience will help to minimize the risk. Out in the open water, weather can change quickly which can drastically change how the boat operates. Furthermore, the boat may become inoperable in deep water, which involves having a backup plan for returning to shore. Be sure to check an accurate weather report, stay close to shore, and keep the engine in top condition. Finally, make sure that all people on the boat have life jackets and know how to use them.

Learn More About G3 Boats

G3 Boats is a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art fishing boats effective in a variety of water locations. These modern, beautifully designed boats are sleek and functional, designed with all the necessary features to make fishing enjoyable.

Visit the G3 Boats website and check out their array of fishing boats and pontoons. 

All boats come with a 5-year Limited Warranty and are built with the highest levels of craftsmanship to ensure customer satisfaction and enjoyment on the water.