Much like fly fishing was celebrated in books like Norman McLean’s A River Runs through It, other literature, including Ernest Hemingway’s famous The Old Man and the Sea, has immortalized fishers of the sea and the events that they experience on the ocean. Like a fly fishers’ river provides tranquility and individual contemplative thought, the ocean offers a sense of world wonder in its vastness.

One of the largest rifts between fly fishing and ocean fishing is that ocean fishing is often a group experience. Boats typically consist of at least a captain and two or more fishermen. When fishing larger fish, one reels while another prepares to gaff and land the fish. You could say that ocean fishing is the less calm version of fishing. Fly fishing consists of quiet casts amidst tranquil backdrops, while ocean sport fishing offers vicious battles between man and fish, often accompanied by yells and chants from fellow fishers. On the boat, fishing bonds are developed through conversation and shared experiences.

While versions like fly fishing require a proficient cast and an understanding of fly patterns and trout behavior, ocean fishing tends to be easier to jump in to, which is typically a big selling point to beginner anglers. Surely, a talented sea fisherman will have better luck catching more fish, but any beginner with some muscle and patience can hook fish without any practice. So if you want to just hop in a boat and start catching big fish, then ocean fishing is the way to go.

A typical day at sea will probably include the following (if you’re doing it right): bait, tackle, ocean rods, a boat, an ice chest, sun tan lotion, and for the sea-legless, Dramamine. These items are not only important for the goal of fish catching, but are essential for an enjoyable day at sea. You can often find guided tours along the coast, and these guides will typically provide you with all of the gear. If you are new to the sport, find a guide, and let them outfit you. Typically, you can hire a 25 foot boat for two people, or a 60 foot boat for up to 6 people.

In order to catch fish, you need the right supplies, but if you are with a guide, everything necessary to catch your desired fish will be on board and at your disposal. If you are ready to get on your own boat and conquer the seas guideless, be prepared to find the needed equipment on your own. In this situation, go ask questions. Masters of the sport can tell you when and where to fish. Local bait and tackle shops can give you local fishing reports of the surrounding waters. Compile as much info as you can for the best luck.