Fewer things will frustrate the die-hard angler than discovering that the fish are no longer hiding out in shallow water. As the summer progresses, water loses oxygen and forces fish to head out to deeper areas where the water is cooler, more oxygenated and offers a larger pool of baitfish to feed on.  Rather than struggling to get a decent catch in shallow waters, anglers can move into deep waters and reefs if they have the proper equipment.

To visualize a reef, simply take a look at any hill. You’ll quickly notice that it has both an up-slope and a down-slope. This isn’t any different in the water – reefs have them too. Fishing a reef typically means that the fish are going to be hiding in the structures that are provided – either rock formations, weeds or even old wrecks.  To make the most of this type of structure, you’ll need to drift over it and go with the flow of the tides.  A depth finder is a required tool for this type of fishing, as you have to be cautious to not damage your boat, but it is also helpful to mark the location where you find fish – remember, fish tend to return to the same areas and storing these locations for future use will help make each fishing expedition fruitful.

Deep water fishing requires different baits, tackle and rods than what is used in shallow water. You will be dealing with faster currents and far deeper water than usual, which means you have to make sure that your equipment is up for it. If your equipment is not geared towards a heavier sinker in the 10-20 ounce range, you’re likely to be very disappointed. Fortunately, you no longer have to deal with oversized, heavy-duty fiberglass rods with super heavy reels full of heavy monofilament line. Technology has seen to that.

Braided fishing line is practically made for deep water anglers.  Combined on a reel with monofilament backing, a 30-50 pound test braid will serve your needs well. One thing that you should be very aware of is your reel – years past this meant a heavy, clunky reel, today, you just need to make sure that your entire reel is suitable for landing big fish.

Rod manufacturing processes have also made life easier – no more are you dealing with thick, fiberglass rods, instead you have a choice of carbon or graphite rods which are not only lighter, but they are far easier to balance with smaller reels than ever before.  What you’re looking for is a light rod that can handle the pressures associated with deep water fishing, which often may mean buying a good composite that has graphite and fiberglass.

A popular deep water technique is speed jigging. Light rods seem to be designed to accommodate this type of jigging since they are typically short, stout and offer a very fast tip that is made for casting heavier baits and jigs.  The advantage of these rods is evident – they are light enough to be comfortable for a long day of fishing and they are easy to handle.  Musky rods are also stout and are great for handling heavier baits such as the 10-20 oz that is needed for deep water fishing – these rods are great for marathon fishing expeditions.

Braided lines, smaller reels and lighter, stouter rods allow the seasoned angler to move with the fish. When they move from the shallow water they normally inhabit, you’ll be ready to take them on in the deeper waters they have moved to.When you are out saltwater fishing it is important to make sure you have the right supplies. Some of the most popular brands include Shimano Fishing Reels, Penn Saltwater Reels, and Team Daiwa Reels.