Offshore vs. Inshore Fishing: What They Mean for Angling Boats

When searching for new fishing boats for sale, it is important to know the differences between offshore and inshore fishing – and what they mean for your future boat. To help out our curious angling fanatics, we’ve put together a guide distinguishing offshore fishing from inshore fishing. Before committing to offshore or inshore fishing boats, try reading through this blog to understand the differences!

Location and Water Depth

As you might suspect, one of the primary differences between offshore and inshore fishing is how deep the water is. As soon as shallows exceed a depth of 30 meters, then you are officially offshore. Depth of water will vary depending on topography and which part of the coast you’re on. However, anything that is more than a few nautical miles out to sea will generally be offshore.

Boat Type

Inshore fishing can accommodate an unlikely variety of boats due to being so close to shore. That’s right – you can even go fishing on canoes and kayaks. The shallow depth of inshore fishing makes it easier to drift out for a quick cast rather than needing to prepare for a trip offshore.

On the other hand, offshore fishing is a much different story. In order to handle the turbulence of deep-sea angling, fishers need larger offshore fishing boats for sale. Plus, since offshore destinations require more time to travel to and from, it is better to enjoy the comfort afforded by a larger vessel.

Weather Concerns

Regardless of whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, you should always check the weather beforehand. It can have a considerable impact on the water, as well as the patterns of the fish you’re targeting. That said, weather is especially hazardous to offshore anglers. Inshore anglers can return to the safety of the coast quickly, but offshore anglers must travel further in the event of a storm.

Equipment

Offshore fishing requires equipment that isn’t otherwise necessary in shallow waters. For example, deeper water makes electronics like fish finders increasingly valuable. Also, offshore fishing has different safety equipment requirements in the event of emergencies, such as bringing a marine radio. Furthermore, offshore fishing often demands heavy-duty equipment to be able to reel in deep water fish. These tend to be stronger, faster, and harder to reel in than inshore fish.

Now that you know more about offshore fishing and inshore fishing, you are better equipped to choose between new fishing boats for sale. The decision is up to you, your lifestyle, and your preferences. There are no shortcuts in building custom fishing boats, and no one understands that better than Young Boats! Contact us today to learn more about our extensive selection of industry-leading fishing boats.