Boat Fishing Equipment vs Shore Fishing: Different Gear For Different Places

Gear that works great from shore is useless on a boat and the other way around also. Here is what you need for each.

Why the Same Rod Doesn’t Work For Both

Shore fishing requires distance. Fishes are not right underneath you, so you need to cast 50-100 meters to reach deeper water. This is done using long __ feet rods at a heavy weight. Although these rods are necessary on shore, they become counterproductive on the boat due to lack of space to swing the rods.

Boat fishing uses shorter rods, 5-8 feet. This is because you are over the fish and can drop your bait straight down. The fish kept will also be at large quantities, and shorter rods will be much easier to control. It is also to avoid __ of other fishers.

Shore Fishing Essentials

A beach casting rod is a minimum of 12 feet long. This should also be something rated for 4-6oz weights. Some people recommend Daiwa or Shakespeare because they are the are the cheaper, but good for beginners.

fixed spool reel should be holding 200-300 meters of 15lb line. You need that much line because strong fish and currents can strip loads off your reel.

Sand spike – It’s impossible to hold a big beach rod all day. Spend a bit to get a good one that pushes into sand properly.

Carrying tackle box – tackle box space is limited. It’s a long walk to fishing spots. Pack light.

Headtorch – Lots of shore fishing happens after dark because that’s when fish feed. Cheap headtorches work fine.

Boat Fishing Essentials

Shorter rod – (around 7-8 feet) rated for the weights you’re using. Ideally get an uptide rod (30-50 feet) or general boat rod (12-20lb class) as they’ll cover most situations.

Multiplier reel – better than fixed spool reels for dropping and retrieving.

Less tackle – the boat has limited space and you don’t want stuff rolling around everywhere. Enough for one small box is perfect.

Waterproof bag – for your phone, wallet, and car keys. All boats get wet, even when it’s not raining.

Seasickness tablets – If you’re prone to it, take an hour before boarding. Not after you’ve started feeling rough.

The Cost Difference

Shore fishing is a lot cheaper to start. A basic setup goes for £60-80 and you can fish anywhere with public access. No boat fees. No charter.

The cost of boat fishing is higher than bank fishing. Charter fishing trips cost between £40 and £70 per person. The fishing gear is also more expensive as it is built to withstand more damage from bigger, more expensive, saltwater fish. The return is higher though as you generally catch more fish, which some people believe makes the expense fine.

Get gear that matches the place you will fish most often, as having both setups is more expensive and not needed, unless you fish weekly.