By Joe Sheaffer
Spending most of my fishing time in shallow water has presented a few challenges for me. I primarily fish in 2-3 feet of water, but many of the fish are shallower. They can be very skittish and many times are very aware of my presence. Being able to present a lure from a long distance can be the difference between struggling and a great day catching fish.
When I made the move to SW Florida from Northern Virginia, I assumed that I could convert much of my bass fishing gear to inshore equipment. While there is some crossover for some of the equipment and techniques, it started to dawn on me that I was a bit under gunned, as I struggled to consistently catch inshore fish. 7 foot casting and spinning rods just didn’t allow me to make long and accurate enough casts. I started using 7’6 to 8’, medium to medium-heavy fast action spinning rods. 2500-3000 series spinning reels, spooled with 10-15 lb. braided line. Using this equipment has allowed me to make much longer and accurate casts and I have definitely been able to present my lures to many more fish. Yes, I still use casting outfits for plugs and shorter spinning outfits for skipping baits under mangroves and docks. Fishing shallow water, longer casts equal more opportunities to put my lure in front of more unsuspecting fish. I’m often asked, “How do I catch fish in certain areas, Joe, I’m using the same lures in the same areas with no luck”. I have fished with a few friends, I’ll catch fish and they struggle. The difference, almost every time, I’m able to make much longer casts because of the equipment I’m using.
Today’s fishing rods and reels are lighter, stronger and technically more advanced than their predecessors. Braid is a game changer, strength, small size, not to mention sensitivity, allows for much longer casts. There are many affordable, quality rods and reels, and braid that won’t break the bank. Check out your local bait and tackle shops, ask your local experts for help picking a combo that works best for you. Making longer casts on the flats, working parallel to mangrove islands, and being able to reach a group of schooling fish without spooking them, gives an angler many more chances to catch fish. It has made a big difference in my success as an inshore fisherman. Do you need to use only longer rods and braid? No, but having the right tool for the job can increase your opportunities to catch inshore species.