-
Why Do I Need a Fishing license?
Going out fishing is an amazing way to spend a peaceful day alone or an engaging day with your family or friends. But no matter if you’re catch and release fishing, or looking to fill the cooler with “meat,” chances are you’ll need a fishing license to fully enjoy your time.Read more -
Reel in the Fun: Offshore Fishing Adventures in the Summer!
When the summer sun is shining brightly, there's no better way to beat the heat than heading offshore for an exhilarating fishing expedition. Offshore fishing offers anglers a chance to explore the vast open waters, test their skills, and reel in some incredible catches. So, grab your fishing gear, hop in your boat, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable summer adventure! 1. Choosing the Perfect Destination: The first step in planning your offshore fishing trip is selecting the perfect destination. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, there are plenty of options to suit your preferences. Popular summer fishing spots include the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pacific coastlines. Research the target species, weather patterns, and local regulations to find the ideal location for your fishing expedition. Decide how far you are willing to go offshore and your comfort zone. Watch the weather and make sure you have all the gear in case of summer time storms. 2. Target Species: One of the most exciting aspects of offshore fishing is the opportunity to catch a wide variety of species. From massive game fish like marlin and tuna to delicious table fare like mahi-mahi and snapper, the offshore waters are teeming with possibilities. Research the seasonal patterns and migrations of your target species to increase your chances of a successful catch. 3. Choosing the right gear: This is one of the most critical parts of your offshore adventure! Once you have the previous two bullet points determined you can start getting the gear ready. Whether you are running 60 miles offshore to the gulf stream or just offshore to your local reef, having the right gear is the most critical part to your offshore summertime fishing success. Remember to always have backup gear in case your targeted species is hard to catch that day.Read more -
Barrel Swivels
Unless you’re a seasoned angler, you are not alone if you are wondering how to use a barrel swivel. Thousands of anglers struggle with how to use a barrel swivel. What even is a barrel swivel? When should you use it? The importance of a barrel swivel cannot be understated. The experts at Rite Angler have compiled a helpful guide to assist new and less experienced anglers using a barrel swivel for saltwater fishing! What is a Barrel Swivel? A barrel swivel is a unique piece of tackle that allows anglers to be more efficient in the water. Barrel swivels allow the fishing line to untwist during retrieval and help prevent tangling. The barrel swivel lets the two lines rotate independently, allowing the line to untie itself during casting and retrieval. It can also apply weight, helping the line sink further into the ocean and find new schools of fish to catch. For inexperienced anglers, a barrel swivel can help ensure your first cast or drop is not one of frustration as your lines tangle and twist with the shifting of the water. Because of current and tide and drifting, saltwater is notorious for tying up lines with one another, leading to line loss and immense frustration. Why is a Barrel Swivel Important? Lines that are twisted weaken one another, leading to untimely snaps and a loss of both rig, bait, and catch! A barrel swivel keeps the lines untangled. Naturally, this ensures that the line will remain strong and not snap during casting or retrieval, or a drop down to the reef–especially if it is wrestling with a strong fish. You can see how frustrating that would be, especially since repairing a line and attaching new bait takes time–time that could be spent catching another fish or chatting with a new friend at the pier. When Should You Use a Barrel Swivel? Fishing in the ocean usually leads to your line getting tangled in the water's shifting currents. While it's not required, it should be mandatory in tumultuous waters. A barrel swivel ensures your lines remain untangled and strong, saving you headaches and trouble later in your fishing adventure. For new anglers, a barrel swivel can save time as you are still learning the sport. It familiarizes you with tackle and other tack pieces' functions during a cast or drop. Plus, the weight of a barrel swivel can help sink your line further in the ocean, enticing more fish to swim up and take a bite. Where Can You Find a Barrel Swivel? Rite Angler has premier, high-quality barrel swivels and saltwater fishing gear for the serious angler. We also supply other terminal tackle, rigs, tools, cutlery and lures for new and experienced anglers. Our barrel swivels are made by anglers for anglers, with a satisfaction guarantee on every piece of terminal tackle. Our barrel swivel is made with highly corrosion-resistant materials and is graded for saltwater use while maintaining the strength to wrestle and pull large fish to the surface.Read more -
3 Pier Fishing Tips and Tricks
If you want a fun, adventurous, and relaxing weekend adventure, pier fishing is your excursion! What screams relaxation more than sitting, casting your line, and enjoying the beautiful weather as you snag a few story-worthy fish?Read more -
How to Catch Redfish From a Pier
Do you want to know some of the best tips and tricks on how to catch redfish from a pier? There is no other fish like the redfish, and when you land a good one, you’ll be thrilled beyond words. The smell of the sea and the satisfaction of reeling in a big catch is unlike anything else in the world.Read more -
Downrigger vs. Planer: The Most Cost-Effective Way to Troll Down Deep
Downrigger vs. planer: which one should you use? Well, it depends on a few things. It seems like every fishing forum has had a debate of downrigger vs. planer, with both having their pros and cons. But which one is the better option for your next trolling adventure… And which one is the most cost effective? What is a Downrigger? Using a heavy metal weight and specialized “rod” system, a downrigger setup is used in trolling to place bait at a desired depth. This allows for more precise fishing and effective targeting of suspended fish schools, or fish that hunt below the surface. A downrigger can be especially effective when using your sounder to find fish, then deploying your baits to the exact depth. Downriggers for fishing allow a good mix of depth control and stability, although they can be very expensive and cumbersome. Characteristics A downrigger setup is larger than a planer and requires skill but can be deployed deeper than a planer. A downrigger rig has a metal cannonball that generally weighs between five and 25 pounds. It has a spool, weight, boom, rod holder and cable to control everything. An entire downrigger setup can cost upwards of $300 and comes with either manual and electric spools for weight deployment and retrieval. Downriggers allow for high-speed trolling with less tension on the rod. Pros Downriggers can go deeper, 200 feet or more Downriggers put less pressure on the rod Provides more reliable depth control than a planer One of the most popular methods for HST Suitable for deep reef trolling for Grouper Cons Far more expensive than a fishing planer Does not use the force of the water for depth control They are complex to use and set up It is often stationary and cumbersome Does not fit in a tackle box What is a Planer? A fishing planer is a specialized metal fishing tool that helps anglers target and catch fish that hunt below the surface. In the debate of downrigger vs. planer, planers are often cited as the more affordable option for anglers and work excellently during times when the fish swim a little higher in the water column, anywhere between 5 and 30 feet down. Characteristics Planers are smaller and lighter than a downriggers and act as a hydrofoil when deployed. They have a sliding metal ring that release tension on the line when a fish strikes. Planers are often used by connecting direct to the mainline or attached to a cleat on the transom with the mainline attached to the planer by rubber bands. Planers also do not have a heavy lead sinker like a downrigger. Instead, the forward motion of the boat causes the hydrofoil shape of the planer to “push” down deep. Pros Very affordable It works better when fish like wahoo swim a bit higher in the water column They are easy to use No special equipment needed. It uses water to force depth Different planer sizes mean different depths Fits in a tacklebox Can be run directly on your mainline Cons Planer rods must be well separated to avoid tangles Generally only reaches about thirty feet in depth depending on planer size Ineffective during months when the fish are down very deep Tough to manage in rough seas Can be difficult to retrieve while boat is in motion So, Downrigger Vs. Planer: Which One? A downrigger for fishing and an ordinary fishing planer are effective for deep-sea trolling for different purposes. Both are effective getting your baits deeper to catch certain species of fish. A good rule of thumb is to consider where you will be fishing and how. A downrigger will be your best option if cost is no issue, and you want to get your baits very deep. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to getting your baits down, then a fishing planer is the better option. As far as cost effectiveness goes, it’s hard to beat a planer! You can find high quality fishing planers at Rite Angler. They’re great for targeting wahoo, kingfish, tuna and more!Read more -
Snap Swivels
Fishing with a swivel is perfect for relaxed, tangle free fishing trips. They are easy to use, comfortable to maintain, and help eliminate many problems ordinarily encountered with traditional tackle. What is a Snap Swivel? A snap swivel is a specialized tackle that helps connect your fishing line to your lure while ensuring your line does not twist. A snap swivel rotates in a full circle to help and offer a more relaxed experience than a traditional snap. How Snap Swivels Work A snap swivel combines two pieces of terminal tackle: the snap and the swivel. A snap is a clasp that attaches to the lure, or lure leader, while the swivel prevents a line from twisting as it rotates circularly around a fixed point. This is especially important for trolling. Snap Swivels vs. Snaps Fishing with swivels can be more relaxing for many anglers, although professional tournament fishers use traditional snaps. There are reasons for this, but ordinarily, if you are looking for a relaxed fishing weekend and are not trying to compete for cash, prestige, or fame, a snap swivel is the best option. When Do You Want To Use a Snap Swivel? Fishing swivels are beneficial for all types of fishing, especially in saltwater, where the currents and sea conditions can be more tumultuous, and the fish can be more challenging to wrangle. It would be best if you used a snap swivel for the following reasons: You're Changing Lures Quickly If you are fishing in an area with diverse fish and different feeding patterns, having a snap swivel can make changing lures and bait far easier. It can also help keep your line from snapping in a struggle, making it easier to recast or get back on the troll if the fish gets away. Constantly retying the lures and lines can be exhausting. It's especially true when you have to swap baits, and not all of us have sixteen or so different rods ready to go with precise lures that we can switch out at a moment notice. Concerned About Twisted Lines The worst feeling in the world is having your line snap or get tangled, especially when the fish you are angling for is only around at certain times. Every minute counts and time spent fumbling with the fishing line is time you could've spent trying to snag that all-important catch. Fishing with a swivel helps reduce that from happening as a snap swivel moves independently from the line, helping keep the line steady no matter the struggle or shift of the water. They also allow your baits, if you’re trolling, to not spin and flip. Out with the Kids Ensuring children can fish is paramount; otherwise, they will have a poor time. A snap swivel helps children keep their line secure and untangled, as their unpredictable nature leads to many rods not working as intended. A snap swivel makes it easy for children to enjoy fishing with all their wild energy. Trolling the Deep With Experienced Anglers Experienced anglers know that the snap swivel is a go to for most trolling efforts. Not only do they allow for less line twist and less bait spin, but you can change out baits and lures very quickly, keeping you on the action. Snap Swivels and More Finding the right snap swivel can make or break a relaxing fishing trap. We want every fishing trip to be the best, and we can make that happen with high-quality tools. We bring you the highest quality fishing swivels and tackle at Rite Angler. For more information, check us out and contact us here.Read more -
How to Use Pompano Rigs
It can seem challenging to catch pompano. A pompano is a deep-bodied toothless fish that tends to be picky with the rigs they'll latch on to. Luckily, anglers everywhere have developed a stunning pompano rig to help catch these elusive and delicious beauties. Pompano make for great table fare! A Pompano Rig A pompano rig, also known as a chicken rig, is a lure that helps saltwater fisherman catch bottom fish, and fish along the shoreline. A pompano rig is highly effective for surf fishing and pier fishing when targeting surf perch or pompano, where the rig earns its name. How is a Pompano Rig Different From Other Rigs? Pompano rigs imitate sand flea eggs and have a bright bead with a vibrant yellow float. As a result, it makes it impossible for pompano to resist and can hold your bait at the bottom of the ocean. Attaching a sinker, usually 2-4 oz. in weight, can help keep your bait at the perfect level to attract beautiful catches. How To Tie a Pompano Rig Tying a pompano rig is simple once you have done it at least once. Once you learn how to tie a pompano rig, you will be ready to hook bait and catch some fish! Ensure Stability You want a sinker for your pompano rig to reach the depths where the pompano hunt and other bottom fish dwell. Firstly, you should use a clinch knot if you can. Pull about five feet of fishing line, then tie the snap swivel to ensure your rig has stability before you attach a sinker to your pompano rig. Tie Your Dropper Secondly, you should tie your first dropper ten inches above your sinker. You can connect a second dropper another ten inches above the first. It ensures you can use multiple baits throughout your fishing adventure, allowing for more lucrative fishing. Slide the Float Next, you want to slide your float over the first dropper loop before sliding your bead on carefully. Be cautious, and do not hurt yourself; otherwise, you will end up with a prick or cut from the sharp hook as you set up your pompano rig. Down to the Barrel Finally, you tie your barrel swivel to the other two dropper knots. After doing so, you can connect the barrel swivel to the rig's top. It ensures that your pompano rig is ready to go. Or, you can just get some pre-tied Pompano Rigs and forget all the hassle! Baits Should You Use There are several baits that pompano cannot resist. After you have learned how to tie a pompano rig, or get some pre-tied Pompano Rigs, you should decide which bait you will use. Sand Fleas As mentioned, the pompano rig has a coloration that resembles sand flea eggs, which pampano and other bottom fish love to consume. It makes excellent bait to attract hungry fish. They are also known as "mole crabs," which you can find by the seashore. Shrimps Shrimp is always a fantastic bait to purchase at your local bait shop. You should be aware of high and low tides, however. If it is low tide, cast your shrimp farther than high tide to ensure the most guaranteed catch. Where Can You Get a Pre-Tied Pompano Rig? Rite Angler has provided saltwater anglers with bait and tackle for years. We have high-quality pre-tied pompano rigs, droppers, swivels, and more to help ensure your next saltwater adventure is worth bragging over. For more information, click here.Read more -
How To Catch Mullet With a Cast Net
Cast net fishing is arguably one of the best ways to catch mullet. It’s a convenient way to fish, and it’s relatively easy to do. Every angler has their own way of doing things, but there are some basic tips and techniques that can help you get started with catching mullet with a cast net.Read more