Basic Equipment Inshore

By Captain Dave Tilley

Fishing inshore is an inexpensive day that is filled with fun for the whole family. You can go sit in the sunshine all day and spend some serious quality time with the family. It does not have to cost a fortune. It does not have to be messy. It does not have to be hard. Let's take a look at what is needed to fish inshore.

1. Small 5 foot spinning rod and reel combo with 10 test line from your local tackle shop......$24.00

2. Selection of small hooks from 1-0 to 5-0.......$5.00

3. Sharp knife.......$3.00

4. Bucket......$2.50

5. Bait.....$5.00

6. Advise from local tackle shop....PRICELESS

$39.00 bucks the first time and $5.00 bucks a shot after that. Not bad for a day of fun in the sun. Last time I did anything with my family is cost a lot more than that.

LOCAL INFO

Did you catch number 6? Advise from the local tackle shop. You can go to some places that are less expensive for tackle but you will pay more per fish caught in the long run. The local bait shop's business depends on giving advise to LOCAL anglers. That is why they are there. Look for the chairs out front, if there is one empty seat, hop in it, buy everyone a soda and SIT DOWN, SHUT UP AND LISTEN to every word. They will tell you everything you need to know. All you have to do is ask and be polite. 

If you want to cut through the BS and have the pockets to do it, hire a guide for a day or two. You are paying them money to show you how it is done. Pay attention to what they do and how they do it. Ask a lot of questions. 

Finally, if you really want to catch more fish, learn your prey. Answer the questions of Who, What, When and Where. There are a multitude of books on the subject at the local library and another full resource on the internet so go learn about the fish that you are trying to catch. I hope this helps.

Tight Lines and Slight Seas