By Bob McNally

Rare is the light-tackle angler who doesn’t talk about, or at least dream about, fishing the vast and fish-filled waters of coastal Louisiana.

Newbies to the Cajun Coast usually talk about Venice, which is often the target town of folks heading to that region for their first fishing fling.

While Venice is a great fishing spot, Louisiana is loaded with many places offering superb Gulf of Mexico fishing.

It’s the quintessential case of now you see me, now you don’t; and that uncanny ability to seemingly vanish is what makes bonefish one of the most captivating of inshore sport fishing.The challenge is significant, but these glimmering silver missiles built for astounding speed will deliver an unforgettable engagement well worth the price of admission.

If we base sport-fish popularity on abundance, aesthetics, and tasty table fare, the sheepshead checks off all the boxes. No doubt, this coastal/inshore favorite deserves its desirable status, but bagging a limit takes focus and strategy.

Regardless of your fishing destination, saltwater is the ultimate place for big fish that produce drag-melting runs, and leave broken tackle in their wake. Dominant species vary with each region and season, often requiring specific tackle to target effectively.

When purchasing a saltwater reel your decision will be driven by a series of factors, not the least of which is the species you’re after. Other issues that will weigh on your choice will be your method of fishing and lastly the amount of experience you have. Let’s examine these factors, one at a time.

Test Your Knowledge to Identify Saltwater Sportfish

Can you tell a tuna from a bluefish? What about a barracuda versus a wahoo? Take a minute, take this quiz and show us how well you know your saltwater fish species!
 

Tip: Shop quality saltwater fishing gear at Bass Pro Shops here

If all you’ve ever fished is freshwater, you’ll have a quick reality adjustment once you hook into your first saltwater fish.

Paul Michele, National Sales Manager Americas, has been targeting saltwater fish since he was 4-years old when his grandfather got him hooked on it.

Best Places to Fish in Florida: Fort Myers

The Lee County area of southwest Florida includes Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Pine Island and Sanibel Island. The region is as close as one can get to a tropical paradise without leaving the United States. You can walk along the soft white sands of the wonderful beaches or swim in the crystal-clear warmth of the Gulf of Mexico. You can take in a show at a theater or watch water birds like ibis, herons and pelicans on their

When you mention fishing the northwestern region of the Pacific Ocean you quickly think of Chinook salmon and monster halibut. When you book a trip of a lifetime with Serengeti Fishing Charters out of Port Hardy, British Columbia, there will be no doubt that you will leave the west coast with sore arms from doing battle with these two species.

Some days, drift fishing is the only way to go on saltwater. Especially when kite-fishing surface baits offshore, or deep-dropping baits as far as 900 feet, or back inshore, covering extensive shallow grass bottoms in Florida or South Texas. All three techniques critically depend on drifting in the boat. The wind is free and it’s nice to save on fuel during the day. And the technique is simple enough, with refinements.