How to Fish for Saltwater Fish to Eat
With a little preparation it's possible to catch saltwater fish to eat---and have a little fun on the way. What you can catch will depend on your location, the season and the type of fishing you enjoy. For example, there are different species in Florida waters compared to Oregon. However, follow a few easy steps and you should be able to catch plenty of saltwater fish to eat.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Fishing pole
- Reel
- Fishing line
- Hooks
- Bait
- Float
- Weights
- Fish guide book
- Hand towel
- Long nose pliers
- Landing net
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose a suitable location. It may help to speak to local fishermen to get a few tips on good marks. It's usually much easier to catch fish from a boat than it is from the shore as you can access deeper water. The best shore marks include harbor walls, piers and rocky areas.
-
2
Check local fishing permit and species laws. Your state fish and wildlife service should have the information, as well as an edible species list. For example, the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife has a useful free guide to fishing in NJ waters.
-
-
3
Decide which type of fish you want to target, then buy or collect some bait. It's advisable to visit a local bait and tackle shop for advice. Squid, crabs and fish strips are good options.
-
4
Set up your fishing equipment. The basic kit is a pole, reel, line, weights and a hook. Attach the reel to the thick end of the pole, then run the line through the eyes of the rod. Thread the line through the float, then attach a weight a few feet down the line. You can adjust the length according to the depth of the water.
-
5
Tie your hook onto the line and bait up the hook. Make sure that your hook point shows, but that the majority of the hook length and knot are disguised by the bait.
-
6
Cast your line into the water. To cast, click and hold the button on your reel. Draw the pole vertically back behind your head, then flick the pole towards the water. As the weight and float arc toward the ocean, release the button. The float should sail through the air and into the water.
-
7
Watch your float or the end of your rod. When you get a "bite" the float may get pulled under the water surface, or your rod tip may bend. Resist the temptation to strike at every little nibble. Sometimes it's smaller fish or crabs. If there is a strong pull or the float disappears, wind in your line firmly until you feel the pull of a fish.
-
8
Lower your landing net and bring the fish toward it, then lift it out of the water. Take a towel and pick up the fish in a firm grip, being careful not to catch any sharp gill plates or fins. Use pliers to gently remove the hook.
-
9
Wash and clean the fish thoroughly in fresh water before gutting, cooking and then eating.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Take a strong box with a handle for all of your fishing equipment.
Try not to wear bright clothes or make a lot of noise. Some fish scare easy.
Pack the fish in ice on the journey home to keep them fresh.
Fishing off rocks can be very dangerous---particularly if you wear waders or heavy clothes. A wave can easily wash you into the water---so stay clear of the edge.
Avoid fishing in polluted water or busy shipping areas.
Most states will have laws on minimum catch sizes and on the amount of fish you're legally allowed to take home.
References
- Photo Credit fishing image by Jorge Casais from Fotolia.com
