Robalo’s Guide to Shallow Water Excursions

Does less water mean less room for on-the-water fun, for those “oohs” and “ahs” that shape an enthralling angling adventure?

Not at all. In fact, we think most shallow water anglers would find that the opposite is true—excursions into shallow water havens are often filled with spectacular sights, one-of-a-kind animal encounters and a sense of peace that pervades the experience.

The secret to enjoying it all, of course, lies in experience and know-how—and even if you’re new on the water, we’ve got you covered with the latter. Take a look below as we share some of our best tips for making the most of shallow water fun.

Bring the right boat for the job

Every great shallow water adventure—whether you’re “gone fishin’’ or simply want to cruise around—starts with the right boat for the job. In this case, you can’t go wrong with the Robalo Cayman series, a collection of bay boats noted for their sleek profile yet uncanny ability to keep you riding nice and dry, thanks to their skillfully-designed freeboards.

Get even closer

In addition to bringing the right boat, you can bring additional, personal watercraft that get you even closer to the water (and the nooks, crannies and coves that shape its shoreline). A kayak or paddleboard might be just what you need to further the fun, long after you’ve caught your share for the day.

Sounding off…

When exploring expanses of shallow water, there’s need for “sounding,” the practice of determining the depth of the water below you. A depth finder can help you do this today, as can your nautical charts—just use these resources to guide your journey, charting a course that’s within your comfort level and boat’s size.

See the sea (even better)

Now, for the best part of shallow water explorations—the visual allure. There’s nothing quite like staring into the crystalline blue or turquoise water, eyeing rock formations, plant life and animals just below the surface… or watching as the lighter shades transition to the deeper, richer hues of the deep.

These color transitions can tell you, the boater, quite a lot… so how do you use them to your advantage? In addition to the familiarization that comes with spending lots of time on the water, a pair of polarized sunglasses can help you see the water for what it is—less affected by the glare of the sun, and more enrichened by the natural flora and fauna that exist below the surface. As you watch the water get darker, you’ll know that there’s likely a passageway to deeper, colder water… and as you spot brown or dark-green patches below, you’ll know you’ve found rocks (or maybe underwater plant life, an opportune spot to find fish seeking shelter from their otherwise exposed  environment…).

What they lack in depth, shallow water spots more than make up for in charm, character and opportunities for true thrills. Gear up and experience them for yourself on your Robalo, this spring and beyond!