Northeast summers can often mean low production for inshore anglers. This is due to oxygen depletion in shallow water which forces both bait fish and game fish out into deeper waters. Instead of giving up, the best bet is to follow the fish – to the deeper reefs where the water is cooler and more oxygen rich.
To visualize a reef, simply take a look at any hill. You’ll quickly notice that it has both an up-slope and a down-slope. This isn’t any different in the water – reefs have them too. Fishing a reef typically means that the fish are going to be hiding in the structures that are provided – either rock formations, weeds or even old wrecks. To make the most of this type of structure, you’ll need to drift over it and go with the flow of the tides. A depth finder is a required tool for this type of fishing, as you have to be cautious to not damage your boat, but it is also helpful to mark the location where you find fish – remember, fish tend to return to the same areas and storing these locations for future use will help make each fishing expedition fruitful.
Live bait or fresh cut bait is often the best choice for striped bass and bluefish. This is nearly a requirement in deep water. You need the right tackle also, or you’ll soon find that the fast moving currents in deep water will be a particular challenge. Choose a rod that is capable of handling heavy sinkers – 10 to 20 ounce sinkers will be almost a necessity. While in the past this capability was often restricted to the heavier, fiberglass rods with a super duty reel, thankfully technology has changed all that.
Braided fishing line has become far more popular with deep water anglers, in fact, it is practically designed for it. Since it is smaller in diameter than the older, heavy monofilaments, you merely need to have a reel that will comfortably accommodate 30-50 point test (a couple of hundred yards) and a mono backing. This type of reel will work well in deep water. Ensure that you have a successful trip by making sure that your reels drag system is capable of landing larger fish.
Fortunately, the creation of braided fishing line also provided new rods that were built for handling the line. This meant that carbon and graphite were incorporated into the manufacture to create a lighter rod that would accommodate a smaller reel. Composite rods are typically made from a combination of fiberglass and graphite which produces a rod that is not only lightweight but also capable of handling the pressure associated with deep water fishing.
A popular deep water technique is speed jigging. Light rods seem to be designed to accommodate this type of jigging since they are typically short, stout and offer a very fast tip that is made for casting heavier baits and jigs. The advantage of these rods is evident – they are light enough to be comfortable for a long day of fishing and they are easy to handle. Musky rods are also stout and are great for handling heavier baits such as the 10-20 oz that is needed for deep water fishing – these rods are great for marathon fishing expeditions.
Instead of giving up fishing for the season just because the fish have moved into deeper waters, evaluate your equipment and adjust it accordingly. There’s no need to not go after your favorite catch just because they have moved into deeper waters. Make sure you’re using a good quality line, appropriate sized rod and you’ll find success as a deep water angler.
When you are out saltwater fishing it is important to make sure you have the right supplies. Some of the most popular brands include Shimano Saltwater Reels, Penn Reels, and Daiwa Saltwater Reels.
