re: What is the OBs go to offshore setup?

Snapper, AJ's and all close in fish, Penn 330 GTI, spooled with 50 lb test line on a Med action Penn Marnier 6' rod.

They handle just about every thing close in and last for years.

Stepping out to deep waters, Start looking at Penn 30W II, two speed or 50's. High dollar reels, but you get what you pay for. Pro shop in New Orleans can set you up. Buy no less then 4.

Also, you will need a couple spinning rigs. I like Penn 8500 or 9500 on a 7' Heavy action allstar rod. Spool with 80lb power pro. They hold around 300 yards. These are also good to put snapper, ling in the boat close in.

Hel not even two years ago I sold all my offshore tackle. Had way over 12K in it and sold it next to nothing.

I did keep one rig that will do all that is a Daiwa 50 Saltiga spooled with 80lb power pro. Used it one time. I have two rods for it were I can swap out for snapper or tuna. Just the reel is $500, but it is a sweet rig.

Oh, one thing I forgot. Never and I mean NEVER go cheap on anything that does with offshore fishing. Make sure that y'all's PHD's are class 1, not those cheap $5 ones. Also add whistles to each PFD and a small flashlight.

Never cheap out on ice and bait. That can make or break a trip. Ice too!

Always set up a trip plan with someone on shore.

Make sure you have a compass on board and know how to use it along with charts. Learn how to look at rigs and read them to know were you are at, at all times. 2 VHF radios with DSS are a must.

Learn how to read clouds.

Offshore fishing is great, but shite can hit the fan extra quick out there. Being y'all are just starting out on y'all's own, try to buddy boat or have someone that knows the in's and out's of offshore fishing on board. That will save y'all a shite load on money in the long run.