For those unfamiliar with saltwater fishing, the terms offshore fishing and deep-sea fishing can be confusing. What makes it even more confusing is that many people use the terms interchangeably, when they don’t mean the same thing. Furthermore, the distance from shore to apply to each term can vary significantly, depending on geographical location.
In general, deep-sea fishing is done in the open ocean, at depths of over 100 feet, although many anglers state that deep sea fishing occurs only at depths of several hundred or even at a thousand feet or more. Deep-sea fishing targets pelagic species such as marlin, swordfish, sailfish, and several different species of tuna.
Offshore fishing is typically done in waters that range from 40 to 100 feet deep. The distance from shore is usually 10 to 40 miles. This type of angling is often done on and around wrecks, rocks, and artificial reefs.
To add more confusion, where you’re fishing makes a difference. For example, if you’re fishing where steep drop-offs are near shore, you might be able to achieve deep-sea fishing status by traveling just a few miles from land. If you’re fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, however, which is relatively shallow, you might have to travel hours from shore to reach water depths of a hundred feet or more.
Is deep-sea fishing better? Absolutely not! Take Naples, Florida, for example. Southwest Florida boasts some of the best fishing in the world, and you won’t need to spend hours of boating to reach some amazing fishing grounds. Offshore fishing here can be done just 10 miles from the coast and targets species such as cobia, amberjack, African pompano, permit, barracuda, several types of groupers and snappers, and more. To target tuna, billfish, and sailfish, you’d have to travel about 150 miles from shore, which would require hours of travel time by boat.
People in Naples and Collier County are serious about their fishing. Many artificial reefs have been created offshore, including concrete slabs, pipes, steel dumpsters, culverts, railroad ties, hollow poles, and bridge rubble. These artificial reefs range from 16 to 48 feet deep. Such habitats attract small fish, providing them with a place to hide. In turn, larger fish are attracted to these areas to take advantage of the baitfish.
When fishing Naples and other locations in Southwest Florida, offshore fishing beats deep-sea fishing. You’ll start actually fishing a lot sooner, and the hot fishing spots are easier to locate. With Naples offshore fishing, you’ll have access to some great fish, and you might even get to battle a monster Goliath grouper!
So, when in Naples looking to go fishing, beware of the charter outfits that are offering deep sea fishing. This is not possible on a half day, three quarter day, or a full day unless you spend your entire charter on a long boat ride which will leave very little time for fishing. We offer offshore fishing and promise to show you a good time and not just a boat ride!