Saltwater tackle, whether bait, lures, or other types of gear, is equipment designed specifically for saltwater fishing. There may not be much difference between freshwater and saltwater tackle in many cases, and much of it can be used in both. In other cases, depending on the location and type of fish sought, there could be significant differences.
Most freshwater fishing, for example, is done for species that don’t have teeth and weigh less than 15 pounds (7 kg), and anglers don’t have to deal with sharp formations like barnacles and coral, nor do they have to deal with corrosive water. All of these factors could be taken into account when saltwater fishing. As a result, saltwater tackle is designed to address some of these issues. Freshwater tackle will simply not hold up under some of these conditions.
One of the first things that people notice about saltwater tackle is that it is typically larger than freshwater tackle, with the poles being stiffer and thicker to handle larger fish. The line can be much thicker and rated to handle much heavier loads. Even the hooks can be thicker to prevent fish from biting through them or otherwise breaking them.
Most lures included in saltwater tackle are likely to be unique. In saltwater, for example, a variety of spoons and topwaters are used. While these are also used for freshwater fishing, one of the most significant differences, at least in some cases, is the size.
While spinning and baitcasting reels are commonly used in saltwater fishing, other types of reels, known as big game reels, are used to pursue specific saltwater fish species. When fighting larger fish, these reels put a premium on keeping the line in place rather than casting. Against some of the larger saltwater species, a spinning reel would be no match.
One of the reasons why many people find it necessary to switch to saltwater is the ability of saltwater tackle to withstand harsher fishing conditions. Steel leaders, for example, are generally considered a nuisance and unnecessary in freshwater fishing, but are considered essential in saltwater fishing by many. This is due to the fact that when fishing in saltwater, the line is easily cut by a variety of objects.
Another aspect of saltwater tackle that is unique is the bait used. Saltwater fishing requires different types of bait than freshwater fishing, whether it’s cut bait or live bait. Saltwater shad and shrimp, as well as squid and sand fleas, are popular choices. Some species prefer live baits, but cut baits, which are often easier to handle, can also be used to catch a variety of different fish.