While freshwater fishing is often calm and meditative, saltwater fishing can feel like a contact sport. Between wading or boating into choppy surf, baking in the hot sun, and getting doused in salty spray, the elements are brutal on the human body and the gear meant to withstand them. The fish are typically bigger too, which makes the stakes higher if gear stops working.
“Salt is ruthless,” says Cody Rubner, United States Coast Guard (USGC) Captain of High Roller Guide Service in Stuart, Florida. “Being strategic with your choices not only protects your wallet long term but also reduces your chance of gear failure while fighting the fish of your dreams.”
Not only is salt corrosive and all-around tough on gear, but the larger fish add strain as well. “Saltwater fish pull harder, pull faster, and pull longer,” says Rubner of the massive tarpon, 40-pound jack crevalle, and elusive trophy permit he often guides in the turquoise waters of Florida’s Southeastern coast. “Because of that, saltwater gear has to be built for strength, longevity, and abuse—whether that’s in the reel internals, drag systems, rod construction, or terminal tackle.”
We asked Captain Rubner and USGC Captain Joe Gugino of Fish Boston to share their recommendations for building out your own saltwater setup and ensuring it’s durable enough to withstand days of salt, sun, and sand. Keep reading for their guide-approved saltwater fishing gear picks.
The post The Best Saltwater Fishing Gear Built for Sun, Salt, and Spray appeared first on Outside Online.
