Offshore fishing means heading further out into deeper water to target species that roam open ocean, such as tuna, dorado and marlin. Coastal (inshore) fishing stays closer to land in calmer, shallower water and generally suits beginners, families and shorter trips. Neither style is "better" — the right choice depends on your experience, how much time you have, who is coming with you, and how comfortable you are on the water. This guide compares both so you can choose with confidence, then book the trip format that fits.
What "offshore" and "coastal" actually mean
These terms describe fishing style, not a specific product or fixed itinerary. Exact routes, timings and target species on any given day depend on the boat, the season and conditions, and are confirmed by the crew at booking.
Offshore fishing generally means running further from the coast into deeper water, where the seabed drops away and pelagic (open-ocean) species pass through. Techniques such as trolling — pulling lures or bait behind a moving boat — are common offshore, because pelagic fish cover large areas of open water and respond well to a moving spread. Offshore trips tend to involve more time in open water and can mean a longer run before fishing begins.
Coastal (inshore) fishing stays in water closer to shore, typically calmer and more sheltered. It suits techniques that work well over reef structure or in shallower zones, and tends to involve shorter transit times, making it a practical option when time on board is limited or when introducing children or first-timers to fishing.
Offshore vs coastal fishing: side-by-side comparison
| Offshore fishing | Coastal (inshore) fishing | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical distance | Further from shore, into deeper open water | Closer to land, in more sheltered water |
| Sea conditions | Can be more exposed to swell; varies with weather and season | Generally calmer, though conditions still vary by day |
| Typical target species | Pelagic species such as tuna, dorado, and other open-water fish; big-game species like marlin possible depending on trip and season | Species associated with reef, structure or shallower water |
| Typical techniques | Trolling is common; other techniques used depending on conditions | Techniques suited to structure and shallower water |
| Trip length feel | Often involves a longer run out before fishing starts | Usually a shorter run, more time fishing sooner |
| Comfort considerations | More motion possible in open water; preparation for seasickness is worth considering | Generally gentler motion, though not guaranteed calm in all conditions |
| Who it tends to suit | Anglers wanting to target bigger or open-water species, and those comfortable with more time offshore | First-timers, families, and anyone prioritising comfort and a shorter time on the water |
Species presence, sea state, and exact technique on any trip depend on the day, the season and the captain's judgement. No catch, sighting or sea condition can be guaranteed.
Which style suits you? Recommendation by traveller type
There is no single "winner" here — the right style depends on your goals, experience and who you are travelling with.
- First-time anglers and families with young children: Coastal-leaning trips tend to be a more comfortable introduction, with generally calmer water and shorter transit time. Ask the crew about a format suited to beginners when booking.
- Solo travellers or small groups wanting to try fishing without committing to a full private trip: A shared trip can work for either style, depending on what is running that day — see our shared trips page .
- Experienced anglers targeting specific pelagic or big-game species: Offshore fishing is the more relevant style, and it's worth reading about big game fishing to understand what a dedicated big-game trip involves.
- Anyone prone to seasickness or unsure how they'll cope with motion: Coastal fishing generally involves calmer conditions, though conditions vary day to day. Prepare in advance and speak to a pharmacist or doctor about seasickness remedies if you are concerned.
- Groups wanting exclusive use of the boat and route flexibility, in either style: A private charter allows the format to be tailored to the group — see private charter .
If you are still unsure, the most useful next step is to look at the techniques involved in more depth, or simply get in touch and describe what you are hoping to catch and who is in your group — the crew can advise on the most suitable format for the day.
How weather and season affect the choice
Sea conditions in South Tenerife vary through the year and from day to day, and both offshore and coastal fishing are affected by wind, swell and current. Which species are more active also shifts with the season. For a general sense of what to expect month to month, see our best time to fish in Tenerife guide . Ultimately, the captain makes the final call on where it is safe and sensible to fish on the day, and trip plans can change accordingly.
Techniques used offshore and inshore
Trolling and jigging are two of the techniques most associated with these styles — trolling suits covering open water for pelagic species, while jigging and bottom techniques often come into play nearer structure. For a closer look at how each technique works and when crews use them, see our fishing techniques: trolling and jigging guide .
Not sure which fish you're after?
If you're choosing a style based on which species you'd like to target, our fish species guide covers identification and general seasonality to help you match your goals to the right trip.
FAQs
Is offshore fishing rougher than coastal fishing? Generally, yes — offshore water tends to be more open and exposed, so there can be more motion than closer to shore. That said, conditions vary by day and season, and South Tenerife's coastline offers some shelter. The crew will advise on suitability before departure.
Which is better for a family with children: offshore or coastal fishing? Coastal fishing tends to be the more comfortable starting point for families, largely due to calmer water and shorter transit times. It isn't guaranteed to suit every child, so speak to the crew about your group when booking.
Can I target big-game species like marlin on a coastal trip? Big-game, open-ocean species are generally associated with offshore fishing rather than coastal trips. If big game is your goal, read our big game fishing page for more detail on what that style of trip involves.
Do I need previous fishing experience for offshore fishing? No, but be aware offshore trips can involve more time on open water and potentially more motion. First-timers can still take part; ask the crew about what to expect and how they support beginners on an offshore-style trip.
Ready to choose your trip?
Not sure which style fits your group? Get in touch with your goals, experience level and group size, and we'll help point you to the right format — or browse our fishing tours to see what's available.
Primary CTA: Enquire about your trip via our FAQ and contact page. Contextual CTA: Explore Fishing Tours in Tenerife to see current trip formats.