One thing that scares most people who are thinking about taking up saltwater fishing is they assume they'll need to buy expensive gear. Not so, says Chris Woodward, longtime saltwater angler who has been an outdoor writer for 18 years with the last seven of those as editor of Sport Fishing magazine. Chris, who grew up in the Tampa Bay area, says getting into the sport can be as simple as buying some tacklebox basics and finding a beach or pier.

To help get you started Chris has the following advice:

1. Do your homework - Look online for articles pertinent to the area you want to fish. Your web search should focus on what fish are available in your area and when. This research will prepare you for step 2.

2. Visit a mom and pop tackle shop - "Find one of those local tackle shops that has been there for 20 years," Chris advised. "It's an interesting experience to walk into a tackle shop for the first time. You'll feel out of place. However, you need to get over that so you can ask questions. And by doing your research first you'll have some idea of what to ask."

3. Tackle some shopping - Again, ask the tackle shop owner or employees for advice because they will know what works best in your area. While it's in the best interest of the owner to give you good advice so you'll come back, be aware that you could get steered to what they're trying to move. "My advice for a beginner is buy a decent, mid-priced rod and reel," Chris said. "Spinning tackle is easier to use than conventional or bait casters."

Tackle shop owners can also recommend which baits and lures you'll need. "If you're new to this, you'll need to get used to using live or dead baits. You can use lures, however, sometimes there's no substitute for bait," Chris said.

4. Learn about knot tying and rigging - Invest in a book such as the Complete Book of Baits, Rigs & Tackle by Vic Dunaway, who developed and perfected the uni-knot system. It's the easiest knot to use and works in just about any situation.

5. Find a place to fish - Even if you don't own a boat, you can saltwater fish from a beach or pier. Make sure you pick up a tide schedule and regulations for your state, and check to see if you need a saltwater fishing license.

6. Charter a boat - Maybe the most fun way to learn the ropes is book a guided trip with a group of friends. Another advantage is you can share the cost, including the tip for the captain and first mate.

"The first thing you need to determine is what type of fish you want to catch. Do you want to go offshore for billfish, tuna or dolphin? Or do you want to try inshore fishing for redfish, stripers and sea trout? Next, you'll need to research local guides. Pick one that understands your needs. You can even get a female captain if you want. Just make sure you tell the guide up front that you're a beginner and that you want to learn about saltwater fishing."

When you're on the trip, be sure to ask for advice on everything from good casting technique to rig and leader systems. You can also get some general direction about where to fish, but don't expect GPS coordinates because that's how captains make their living. However, you can ask specific questions such as "what makes this a good place to fish."

This advice will get you started on the road to one of the most enjoyable ways you can experience the outdoors. Another place where you can benefit from others' experience is Sport Fishing magazine's online female angles forum. Cast your line of questions at the link below.

http://forums.sportfishingmag.com/forumdisplay.php?s=cf8b2a5f143df0d76e9a65005a104cb9&f=121

By Tammy Sapp
Article from "The Women's Outdoor Wire "