OffShore SeaBass Question
 

On the offshore Seabass trips that are ongoing now, how deep are they typically fishing and what kind of rod/reel setups? Line poundage? Using double header rigs by any chance? Thinking of going out tomorrow but don't have time to buy new gear.

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

If you have any Cod gear it would do. Hi-Lo rigs some heavy sinkers

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

Inshore fishing for me, I always try to go as light as possible. My recent offshore seabass trip we were in about 220' of water. Overall range = 180-240'.

After a few of these trips, I have come to realize that going heavier is almost always better. 7.5' rod rated 20-40 with 65lb test braid. Nice long leader of 40lb mono. Big sinkers, usually 14-16 oz.

I am a big believer in one weight, one big dropper loop, one big hook with one big bait. 6" dropper loop about 2' above the sinker. 6/0 mustad hook with at least 1/2 clam on it. The reason - when a 4lb seabass grabs it, not a good time to wait around for another, and why would you? You can most certainly do a second hook if you want.

Dress warm tight lines.

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

You want a second hook in case your bait gets eaten before you hook a fish. Its a long way to go to do a bait check.

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

170 to 220 ft. deep 24 oz. sinkers, go lighter if tide and current permit.

I use 50lb. MONO. ( try picking those little knots out of the braid in minus 20* F.)

High low, no bells, no whistles, no beads. I use a 7/0 baitholder, each hook 2 to at least 3 feet apart. Big water, big hooks, big baits, big sinkers, big rods, big reels, leave the fluke stuff at home. Go big or go home.

I use Mason hard nylon to tie my own rigs, 50lb. test.

Pack 3 boxes of frozen squid (whole frozen 8" long) Whole squid on each hook..........THUMPA.....THUMPA.......THUMPA !!! Have fun !!!

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

I like your style Andy. You don't want to fool around with the lighter tackle. With the 15 fish limit you want the bigger baits and hooks. You will have no problem with a Pollock either with that rig. Those sea bass have big mouths and even a smaller one could inhale a squid.

Good advice.

Leif

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

Thanks guys for the info. Sounds like my 200'-250' ling gear (Avet w/450yd braid and 6.5" medium action stick) should do the trick. Just maybe if I had a dual speed reel I would make out better. But I will go for it anyway if weather permits.

Richie: Thanks to you as well. Hope to see ya around soon buddy.

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

LaMar Hope you are able to get out and catchem up.Bingo should be back in action come April.

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

IMO I don't think a 2 speed reel is necessary. Just got back Monday and did okay with my Avet MXL

Re: OffShore SeaBass Question
 

Leif doesn't just like Andy's style, he digs his avatar like the rest of us. lol;)