by William Patterson

Created on: March 11, 2009

As an avid fisherman, I have rarely missed the opportunity to head out on an offshore trip. I have fished for marlin off the coast of Mexico, for yellowtail and bonefish in the Florida Keys, and for flounder off of the coast of New Jersey. Often, the weather has been less than favorable, but I have never let that stop me from stalking that trophy fish. Many times, however, I have found myself alone on deck while my companions have succumbed to that most dreaded of seafaring conditions seasickness. Some who have fished with me for years believe that I am simply not susceptible to the illness', and they envy my strong constitution. In actuality, nothing could be further from the truth. My constitution is no stronger than anyone else's, but I have some rules and remedies that I follow without fail. Bear in mind that my tips described here are directed toward the offshore angler, that is, someone who is out following fish in the open ocean on a pleasure boat, or on a fishing party boat. If you become seasick on cruise ships, or even if you suffer from other types of motion sickness, the information here still may be of help. I do not like to use over the counter medication for any reason to help with seasickness, or any other malady. I look instead to natural remedies.

The number one natural remedy of all is prevention. By that I mean, do not get sick in the first place. With that said, remember this: booze is not your friend. If you are vacationing in Cabo San Lucas, and you have a five AM offshore trip booked for marlin the next day, forget about hanging out for last call at Cabo Wabo. Alcohol will not only dehydrate your body, but it can cause fluid buildup in your inner ear and upset your stomach. All three conditions can leave you vulnerable to seasickness before you even get on the boat.

I drink lots of water the evening before an offshore trip. Water and fresh fruit help to keep you hydrated and flush toxins from your gastrointestinal tract. In addition to the hazards of alcohol, food can also be a problem. If I am expecting an especially rough trip, I eat a hearty, but not spicy, dinner the night before I go out. Then I turn in early, and eat a light breakfast the next morning. Usually my pre-offshore-rough-seas-ahead breakfast consists of only one piece of whole wheat toast and half a cup of coffee or strong tea. I stick to the half cup rule to avoid having to use the head for as long as possible (restroom to you landlubbers) which on boats tends to be quite

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