Ready to start fishing? Having the right gear is key to a successful and enjoyable experience. This guide will help you choose the essential equipment, from rods and reels to bait and tackle, so you can focus on catching fish.

Anglers new to the sport face a bewildering array of tackle options. There are forests of rods to choose from, long rows of reels to consider, and lures of every possible shape and color lining shelves that never seem to end. It’s hard to know where to start, isn’t it?

But getting the right gear as a new fisherman doesn’t need to be an exercise in frustration. While you won’t be prepared for all types of fishing, every species, or every situation, with just a few basics, you can get started on what will become a lifelong passion.

Today, we’re going to discuss those basics, recommending a complete beginner fishing setup for you. Let’s get started.

Your first rod

While there’s a world of rods out there waiting for you to try, beginner anglers are probably best served by a light-power, fast-action option.

“Light power” refers to the amount of force it takes to make a rod bend, and this directly impacts how much pressure you can apply to the fish you’re fighting through your reel, line, and hook. Action, by contrast, tells you where on the rod that bend will begin, and bears directly on sensitivity as well as the “sharpness” of your hookset.

Simply put, more powerful rods are stiffer and can pull harder and fight larger fish. Slower actions are more “whippy,” bending along their length rather than starting near the tip and remaining pretty straight throughout.

We recommend a light-power, fast-action rod for a beginner fishing setup for several reasons.

First, they’re more than capable of catching species like Bluegill, Crappie, Perch, Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Channel Catfish, Croaker, Spot, Flounder, and Speckled Trout. That covers a lot of fishing ground! That power and action make these rods sensitive, allowing you to detect light strikes and timid bites.

Second, a rod like this will force you to learn to play and fight fish rather than simply reel them in. That skill-building is essential to you becoming a better angler. You simply won’t have the power to muscle big fish, and instead, you’ll need to learn to use the drag on your reel and other techniques to win your battles.

And finally, a light-power, fast-action rod is simply fun to catch small fish with and an absolute heart-pounder when you do hook a nice Bass, Walleye, or Speck. It’ll feel like you’ve caught a submarine, and the smile on your face will be something you’ll remember for the rest of your life! Fun is what we’re after on the water, and we promise that a good rod like this will more than deliver.

We at USAngler recommend considering these options: the 6-foot, light-power St. Croix Premier. You can expect uncompromising quality from handle to tip from this St. Croix. Another option, and one that’s more budget-friendly, is the Ugly Stik Elite. This 5-foot, 6-inch rod sports a campsite blank of fiberglass and graphite, and while it’s a tad slower than the St. Croix, it’s still plenty sensitive and very, very tough.

You could also go with a rod and reel combo. Check out USAngler’s guide to learn how to choose a combo that’s right for you: Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo.

Your first reel

A good reel begins with an awesome drag system.

A drag does more than create resistance for a fighting fish; it also protects your fishing line from sudden shocks. To accomplish these two tasks well, the drag system needs to allow a smooth, continuous release across its possible settings. Any sudden starting or stopping can spell disaster.

Beyond this, you want to ensure that your reel has a reasonable line capacity, as you’ll need to cut and retie as you damage your line in fights. A good reel will also cast smoothly, offer enough speed to keep your line tight when you’re fighting a fish that makes a direct run at you, and have high-quality gears that provide plenty of torque and smooth operation.

The spinning rods we’ve recommended above should be paired with spinning reels of an appropriate size. Here are USAngler’s recommendations for a beginner fishing setup:

Great options to consider include the Pflueger President in size 30 and the Shimano Sedona FI 1000. Both are simply revered by legions of anglers, and while there are more expensive models out there – here, we’re thinking about the amazing Shimano Vanford 1000 –  these budget-friendly options are a very good place to start.

Line

Three line types dominate the fishing industry: braid, fluorocarbon, and nylon monofilament. For beginner anglers just setting up, the best overall choice is probably monofilament. It offers several significant advantages.

First, it’s very abrasion resistant and can really take a beating without failing. That may not seem like a big deal until you have a fish make a circle around a gnarly stump, run over a submerged rock, or twist your line across a barnacle-encrusted piling. Mono can take this abuse better than the alternatives, and we use it ourselves the vast majority of the time.

Second, it ties easily and offers excellent knot strength. Knot strength is a big deal, and if you’re going to have a line failure unrelated to abrasion, it’ll be from a knot pulling through. Monofilament is simply superior in this respect, hands down.

Finally, monofilament offers shock resistance, preventing sudden movements of the fish from breaking your line. In hard fights, especially with light line, plenty of shock resistance can be the difference between landing a nice Bass or impressive Speck and having your line snap.

The rods and reels we’ve recommended are rated for lines between four- and eight-pound monofilament tests.

Hooks

There’s no one hook to rule them all, and if you plan to fish with live bait, you’ll need an array of options.

For species like Bluegill, Sunfish, Perch, and Trout, you’ll want some size #6 and #4 baitholder hooks. They’re the right size for these species and do a great job of keeping nightcrawlers, crickets, and other live bait on your hook.

For Crappie, you’ll need a few light-wire Aberdeen hooks in sizes ranging from #4 to #2. These fish have paper-thin, very delicate mouths, and though they’re the size of other Panfish, a larger hook is required to prevent them from tearing free.

Catfish, Speckled Trout, and other larger predatory fish demand a good circle hook that matches the size of the bait you’re offering. Circle hooks are self-hooking, meaning that the fish hooks itself as it takes your bait. All you need to do is start reeling, and the fight will be on! You’ll need to pick up a few circle hooks ranging in size from 1/0 through to 3/0.

Floats and split shot

One of the most effective ways to catch fish is by suspending live bait beneath a float. And while you’ll see plenty of red and white bobbers on the water, they’re vastly inferior to slip floats of all kinds.

The magic of a slip float is that it can be reeled up to the end of your rod, allowing accurate casts. Red and white bobbers can’t do this, and you’re forced to contend with three or four feet of bobber, line, and hook every time you cast.

Slip floats are available in a wide array of shapes and sizes, each designed for different purposes. We recommend two styles for a beginner fishing setup: a simple balsa float like the Thill and a larger South Bend Catfish Pole float.

The Thill is perfect for Panfish of all kinds, and we own and fish them ourselves. They’re simply amazing with worms, crickets, leeches, or wax worms on a hook beneath them.

The South Bend is an excellent choice for larger species like Catfish, Walleye, or Speckled Trout. They’re able to buoy large pieces of cut bait or huge minnows, and they’re easy to see as they rock in the water. These floats will require a bit of a split shot to weight them properly so that they sit just right in the water, and those extra ounces let you cast them farther, too.

Pliers

Fishing pliers are a must for every angler. Not only are they essential for placing and removing a split shot, but they can also reach deep into a fish’s mouth to remove a stubborn hook, cut wire for leaders, and perform a hundred other tasks you encounter on the water.

Good pliers have a comfy grip, springs to keep the jaws open, and the teeth and cutting power to do the work you need. We at USAngler use KastKing’s Cutthroat 7-inch Fishing Pliers ourselves and can’t recommend them highly enough.

Lures

Last, but certainly not least, you’ll need a small selection of lures. And while your arsenal will grow over the years, you only need a few lures to get started. Here’s what we recommend at USAngler:

Wordens Original Rooster Tail is an in-line spinning lure that you should always have in your tackle box. That’s no exaggeration. Fish a few sizes, like the ⅛-ounce and ¼-ounce, and throw white, black, chartreuse, and rainbow to mix things up when the bite is low.

You can catch everything from Brook Trout to Largemouth Bass on these little wonders. They cast well, and they’re very easy to fish: just reel them through the water fast enough to keep them off the bottom.

A second lure to never leave home without is a Rapala Original Floater. For decades, this floating crankbait has caught fish, and by cranking it steadily or letting it float as you jerk it to dive briefly, fish can’t get enough of this guy.

Strike King’s Chrome Sexy Shad is a great lipless crankbait choice, and when retrieved, it wriggles enticingly and really rings the dinner bell for any fish that’s home.

And finally, try Dardevle Spoons. They don’t look like much, but never judge a book by its cover. These metal lures create amazing action as they sink, fluttering like mad, and on the retrieve, they wriggle for all their worth. Throw the ¼-ounce in silver, gold, and red and white.

Knots

Knots aren’t something you buy but something you learn. And any serious angler will tell you that they’re one of the most critical aspects of fishing success. A badly tied knot won’t hold, while the same knot tied properly will grip like super glue. For a beginner fishing setup, you only need to learn one knot for all your lures and hooks: the Uni.

It’s exceptionally strong, very shock resistant, and easy to tie and learn. Practice it at home in your spare time until you can tie quickly, and never look back! Later in your career, you can learn other useful knots like the Palomar, Kreh, Double-Uni, and Surgeon’s Knot. But for now, the Uni will do everything you need.

A Fishing License

Before you make your first trip, you need to buy a fishing license in the state you live in, and study the regulations to know the legal limits on the fish you catch. These vary from state to state and even sometimes season to season, so know what you’re doing! A quick trip to your local Walmart or your wildlife management agency’s website can get you a license in just a few minutes.

Experience the thrill of fishing with the best fishing charters in Islamorada! Book your trip and let our expert guides help you reel in your dream catch. Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

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Reference: [https://fishingbooker.com/blog/beginner-fishing-setup/]

Choosing the right bait can significantly impact your success on the saltwater fishing scene. Here we guide you through some of the top saltwater fishing baits, providing you with valuable insights to help you increase your chances of landing a trophy catch. Now come on down to Marathon in the Florida Keys and let’s see which one works best for you! 

Saltwater fishing can be done from a pier or a boat, in the surf, in a bay or many miles from shore. Saltwater fish are going to be attracted to different bait than freshwater fish, however, all fish are going to use their sense of smell to hunt their prey. Saltwater and freshwater fish can both smell better than dogs, but they are not attracted to the same scents. Keep this in mind when you target saltwater fish.

Anglers subscribe to the fishing mantra “Match the Hatch”, meaning that you need to match the bait to your target species prey. For example, sailfish love to eat flying fish and ballyhoo that swim in schools. Trolling with those, live or dead, will result in more billfish hookups than sitting in one place with a chunk of squid on your hook.

Even if you don’t have one fish in mind, saltwater fishing with bait fish, cut bait, shrimp, or shellfish can hook a fish. Pair saltwater live bait with these four quick tips for choosing the right bait.

• Shrimp – Shrimp is a go to bait for saltwater anglers. This all-purpose bait works because shrimp are common in saltwater environments and fish are attracted to the scent and movement. Dead or alive shrimp can be used to catch fish onshore or offshore. Since shrimp can attract fish of all sizes, big fish are as likely to grab a bite of smaller ones. These fast free meals can cause shrimp to can get expensive as a bait, but it does usually yield results. Snapper, redfish, and any number of fish love shrimp.
• Shellfish – Lots of different species of fish eat shellfish like clams, mussels, or crabs. Anglers like the versatility of shellfish as bait when trying to catch a fish. Clams can be slippery so some anglers let shellfish harden in the sun on the hook for optimum results. Fish, like grouper, are attracted to the scent of shellfish. Crabs require special handling to keep from having a claw clamp down while putting on a hook, but this is worth it when trying to catch copia. Anglers often catch shellfish to use as bait, but make sure to check with local listings beforehand. Some mussels or clams have regulations.
• Cut Bait – Cut bait has a strong aroma which is a key way to attract saltwater fish. Cut bait can be made by cutting up bait fish or smaller fish you have caught throughout the day. You can hook a plethora of fish with cut bait, like sea bass, mahi mahi, and bluefish. Cut bait is effective for all saltwater fishing, whether you are offshore, on shore, or surf fishing.
• Bait Fish – Eels, ballyhoo, and pilchards are commonly used to catch saltwater game fish. Anglers often choose this bait, since fish are naturally drawn to the movement and scent of their prey. Bait fish can be caught with a cast net and kept alive in a livewell or with frozen packs available at your local bait shop. Keep in mind some fish will only eat live bait. Grouper and amberjack find a five pinfish hard to resist.

Identifying the target species will help you narrow down the right bait to use. Professionals often switch up their tactics, so don’t be afraid to try a new bait!

Fishmaster Pro Tip: Never handle bait if you have sunscreen or insect repellent on your hands. Fish can smell the chemicals and they will avoid your bait like the plague.

Maximize your catch and have more fun bottom fishing in the best fishing charters in Islamorada! Increase your chances of catching that big one and create unforgettable memories on the water. Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

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Reference: [https://fishmaster.com/blog/post/saltwater-fishing-bait]

The natural beauty of Marathon Keys, with its clear blue waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine life, enhances the overall fishing experience with Sweet E’ Nuf Charters, making it a picturesque and enjoyable activity. The warm climate and favorable conditions in Marathon Keys allow for year-round bottom fishing, offering anglers consistent opportunities to fish regardless of the season. Bottom fishing involves targeting fish near the ocean floors. This method offers a unique and rewarding fishing experience, combining skill, patience, and a touch of luck. From the thrill of landing a prized catch to the opportunity to explore diverse marine environments, let’s explore your possibilities.

There are several tips and tricks for fishing. It solely depends on the anglers what types one chooses. How adventurous an angler is? So when it comes to fishing with adventure and want to have pro skill in fishing, the anglers go for the bottom fishing.

Now the question arises, what is bottom fishing? That lies on the term of the word, when we mean bottom that means the lowest portion of anything, and fishing means catching fish. So bottom fishing stands for fishing in the lowest portion of the water.

The off-shore technique, bottom fishing, is popular because catching different types of fish like  Amberjack, triggerfish, grunts, sea bass and even sheepshead can be catched by bottom fishing. And those who like the ocean to go on adventures are also fond of this method. You will need reels for your bottom fishing t. If you want to fish a specific type of fish like bass, you need that specific type of reels for bass fishing. That applies for other types of fish too.

Below we try to figure out why people or we can say most of the anglers go for bottom fishing.

More variety than normal fishing 

Normally all you can catch Catfish, Bass, Northern, PikeWalleye etc, But when you want to go for ground fish like Amberjack, triggerfish, grunts, sea bass or even Turpun you should to the bottom of the water, Sometimes magic happens who know you can catch a tuna or blue marlin.

Keep surprising

Most anglers can determine what types of fish in the water depend on their experience. But no one can guarantee you what types of fish you can catch in the bottom of the water, there’s always a surprise ready for you. You’ll get an unexpected species you can only dream about.

Deep sea fishing

If you are an adventure lover, want to explore the ocean by fishing and discover more than bottom fishing is the one which you are searching for. Just get a boat, take a fishing rod, live fish bait, take some heavy rigs and start your motor. Just a simple step to go fishing.

Requires skill and patience

Bottom fishing is not as simple as it looks. From the shore it looks like you’ll throw the bait from the boat and after a while you’ll get the fish in the hook. But it’s not the same as what it looks like, you have to spend a long time on the boat to lure the fish. It all depends on luck, experience, and technique, Because you never know where the fish lies in the water. You must have to choose the right spot, picky about the live baits and have patience and there’s always a surprise waiting for you.

Challenge your friends

Bottom fishing is described as a profession or a game wherein human beings fish at an open sea or ocean. Its aim is to journey always sufficient in order that fishermen and anglers attain the deeper components of the ocean. This is so as it offers them entry to sure styles of fish who stay handiest withinside the depths of the ocean or ocean. When you notice the words “bottom fishing,” it immediately makes you think of industrial fishing, however it is able to additionally be a leisure pursuit and game as well.

 

Once you’ve accomplished your studying and are absolutely aware about bottom fishing, it’s time which will be put together in your fishing voyage. You will want a fishing license, in conjunction with a few coins to buy crucial matters consisting of equipment, fish cleansing gadgets etc. We additionally advocate you preserve a fishing hat and shades to live cushty and beat the sunlight.

Popularity is a word which can’t be measured Or can’t be generalized. It all depends on the perception of an individual we’re trying to figure out the perception of an angler or  from the perception of a normal fishing lover. If you think you love bottom fishing for another reason, Share with us more about it.

Experience the thrill of bottom fishing in the best fishing charters in Marathon! Increase your chances of catching that big one and create unforgettable memories on the water. The Keys have a rich fishing culture and history, with many locals and visitors alike drawn to the tradition and lifestyle associated with fishing in these waters. Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

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Reference:[https://www.seabookings.com/blog/5-reasons-why-bottom-fishing-is-so-popular/]

Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to refine your skills or a complete beginner eager to cast your first line, this guide is your ultimate fishing companion.  Get ready to reel in success with these expert fishing hacks!

Summer is a terrific time to go fishing, but every season has its appeal, and you can have a great fishing excursion at any time of year. The trick is to correctly arrange your trip to get good results while having fun. If you’ve never gone fishing before, it may appear to be a relatively easy task: rod, bait, line, and game. It is, however, far more complicated.

It’s not easy to plan the perfect fishing excursion. You must not only pay attention to all of the intricacies of your trip, but you must also manage several different things simultaneously. The better prepared you are, the better chance you have of succeeding. If you’re still planning a fishing trip with your buddies but haven’t gotten everyone together yet, we’ll give you some tips on making your fishing trip even more fun.

Look over your vacation plans

Take a careful look at your vacation itinerary and select what kind of activities you want to do on your fishing trip. You have the option of going fishing with a group of pals or going it alone. However, whether you are fishing alone or with buddies, it helps things run smoothly if you have a list of activities in mind.

Invest in a Fishing Guide

We recognize that this may be out of your budget for your fishing trip, and that is fine. However, if you have some additional money to spend on your vacation, hiring a guide is one of the best decisions you can make. You’ll be helping a local organization, and you’ll likely learn a lot about the area you’re fishing in (making your other days there more productive). Also,  you’ll get to experience a river with someone taking you to the best fishing spots, assisting you, and working to make your experience fantastic.

One of the quickest methods to learn about fishing is to ask someone who knows a lot. Hiring a fishing guide is nearly always a good option when money is tight.

Choose the Best Fishing Spot

If you want to catch a lot of fish, you should remember that not all fishing places are equal. Not all bodies of water will have the same variety of fish, so you’ll need to do some research to find the best fishing areas in the area you’ll be visiting. Joining a fishing club can help you learn about the most excellent fishing spots and find different sorts of fish.

Boat Arrangements

If you love going on fishing trips and fishing has become a passion to you more than a hobby, you can consider buying a fishing boat. If you have your own fishing boat, you won’t have to worry about renting boats every year. Buying a new one can cost you a lot but the good news is many companies announce fishing boats for sale. This will greatly cut down on costs and give you the satisfaction of owning a personal fishing boat.

Check a Recent Local Fishing Report

The lake you intend to visit may have been a popular fishing destination eight years ago, but lakes change over time like the surrounding environment. Check through some of the most recent fishing reports to check if the lake is still as fantastic as you remember it being or to confirm that your fishing spot is still open. The DNR also keeps note of any lake closures in the vicinity and whether or not the lake has recently been chemically treated, which can have a significant impact on fishing.

Put on Suitable Clothing

Make sure you’re dressed correctly for the weather. It should be made up of three layers, with the outer layer being waterproof.

If you’re going out on the open water, bring lots of layers with you everywhere you go. Offshore, even the warmest destinations can experience significant temperature changes. You can’t count on the sun to keep you warm from the start if you’re leaving the dock at 5:30 a.m. At the same time, there will not be much shade out there, so make sure you can remove outer layers if necessary.

Laying the cover directly on top of the lake or pool is an excellent option. You’ll be able to spread out your fishing net without worrying about water getting into it once you’ve done this. You won’t have to worry about damp hands because this cover is directly on top of the lake.

Always Remember to Use Sunscreen

On your fishing excursion, don’t overlook the importance of sunscreen. When you’re out fishing, it’s critical to keep your skin protected at all times. Keep in mind that you’ll be out in the sun for the majority of the day. You don’t want your skin to be damaged by UV radiation. UV rays can enter your skin if you aren’t using sunscreen, even on an overcast day.

As a result, keep your sunscreen close at hand and apply it frequently to keep your skin protected.

Getting to Know Different Styles

You can go fishing in a variety of ways. The majority of countries have a favorite style. Float fishing for carp and bream is prevalent in the United Kingdom, although fly fishing is the favored method in America. It’s critical to understand these styles to find the right one for you.

It doesn’t imply you can’t float fish if you live in America. Other techniques include pole fishing and spinning for predatory species such as pike, muskie, and perch. There are numerous publications available that cover the various types of fishing and are well worth your time.

Prepare Everything You’ll Need for Your Trip

When going on a fishing trip, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the journey and overlook other necessities that are just as crucial. The tent is one of them. Spend at least one night on location if you want to get the most out of your fishing vacation. This will allow you more opportunities to fish at the proper times. Ensure you get the right tent, especially if you’re going to camp in your truck. If you’re fishing with your family, be sure your tent is big enough.

Don’t forget to bring food and drink. Always keep a supply of snacks on hand; they’ll help you stay focused for a long time until you catch some fish. Consider what kind of refreshments you want to bring with you on your journey. Consider the worst-case situation, in which something unexpected occurs. You will undoubtedly require supplies.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Before going, double-check and pack your equipment to avoid arriving at the fishing spot without vital supplies.

Specific tools will be required depending on the type of fishing, but it is always essential to have a basic set of equipment on hand for all occasions.

Bringing a second rod is always a good idea in case something goes wrong and a rod snaps. It happens, and having a backup will save your trip. If you plan on fishing in various bodies of water, having suitable rods, reels, and rigging materials will ensure that you have the best setup possible for whatever conditions you encounter.

Consider Equipment Size

The size of the equipment and tackle you’re using is something to consider. Large hooks and heavy lines should not be used while fishing in a lake overloaded with bream, tench, carp, and rudd. If you use too large equipment for the fish you are targeting, you risk injuring them or failing to capture them at all.

Barbed hooks should also be avoided while fishing for tiny fish since they might harm the interior of the fish’s mouth and even kill them. For larger predatory fish like pike and muskie, barbed hooks are appropriate.

Be Prepared for Rain

Pack some additional rain gear to keep you comfortable and dry while fishing. The best fishing is often when it’s raining, so you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity. If you’re camping, take extra precautions to keep your belongings dry. You don’t want to return to a wet sleeping bag. Trust me on this one.

Learn the Laws and Rules

Be a responsible fisherman by obtaining the appropriate fishing license and adhering to all rules and restrictions in the area where you are fishing. Many places have “Catch and release only rules”, “Imitation lures only laws”, “Barbless hook regulations”, “Catch restrictions”, size limitations, and “Open and closed seasons” etc. Make sure you’re familiar with these guidelines and that you obey them when visiting aquatic bodies.

Every state’s government should establish a website where you can find the regulations. If you are unable to do so, get assistance from a local guide.

Have Patience

Patience, especially when it comes to fishing, is a virtue. Anglers are known for their patience. It’s a hit-or-miss sport. Sometimes you catch a lot, and other times you get nothing. While catching a fish is exciting, sitting calmly near a peaceful lake and waiting for them to strike is also enjoyable. If you want to be a good fisherman, you must have patience. If you don’t, you won’t be around for long.

To Sum Up

Your fishing vacation can be an enjoyable experience with a bit of planning. Now all you have to do is get out there and catch some fish!

Master the art of fishing with our expert in the best fishing charters in Islamorada! From beginner basics to seasoned angler secrets, we’ve got you covered. Increase your chances of catching that big one and create unforgettable memories on the water. Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

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Reference: [https://www.seabookings.com/blog/great-fishing-tips-that-you-should-know-about/]

The author with a nice daytime swordfish caught off the Florida Keys. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

The quickest bite I ever had while daytime swordfishing was on a bait I rigged almost as a joke. I took an entire fresh mahi, topped and tailed, completely deboned and gutted, and I made a fold-over bait and sewed squid inside of it. I was unable to confirm the chum-bag effect I was looking for because that bait got smoked seconds after dropping it down.

As a charter captain, artist and full-on weirdo, I love the creativity of making my own swordfish baits. Just about any properly rigged species will do the trick. Some of my favorites are strips, fillets and bellies of mahi, bonito and tuna. I also like whole mackerel, rainbow runners, squids and eels.

However, I wouldn’t be surprised if a sock full of squid was a productive bait, as long as it followed two main rules.

The Two Rules of Rigging for Swordfish

A squid skirt sewn onto a prepared swordfish bait adds extra movement and can streamline the bait to keep it from spinning. Steve Sanford

First, the hook must be secured to the bait. Utilizing rigging floss, ensure whatever bait you are using is stitched tightly to the hook. I start by crimping an 8-foot leader of 300-pound mono to a 9/0 to 11/0 hook, depending on the size of the bait. A 9/0 is usually the right size for an eel, whereas a 10/0 might fit best with a whole mackerel.

Regardless of the bait, pull the leader attached to the hook tight and sew it in with a rigging needle and 70-pound rigging floss so the hook doesn’t slide or flop around in the bait. Weave floss around the shaft and the eye of the hook to keep the bait from crumpling down the leader. You can also sew loops under the bottom of the hook and pull tightly to the back of the shaft. This gives the hook extra protrusion from the bait. The dance here is to make things as tight as possible without destroying the bait’s integrity.

The second rule is the bait must swim straight. No matter what you rig, test it before dropping it. Slowly troll the bait behind the boat, and make sure it doesn’t spin in the prop wash. If your bait isn’t gliding straight, sometimes minimal alterations can fix it quickly. Trimming down extra meat or clipping the tail off a whole rigged fish is sometimes all you need.

Sew on a Squid Skirt

Swordfish definitely eat whole squid baits, but they are soft and can break apart on the initial hit. Steve Sanford

As well as adding extra movement to the presentation, a squid skirt helps keep your bait streamlined and can cure spinning. Strips, eels, squids, whatever… I skirt everything.

Once the bait is rigged, slide the skirt down the leader to form a bait-hat and stitch it on. As with trolling skirts, the silicone tassels can bind up on the hook tip and interfere with a hookup. Trim the tassels away from the hook or just place the skirt well above the hook.

Rigged squid is a common bait for swords. It’s stinky, has movement, and is part of their natural diet. The problem with squid is it’s soft and often breaks apart after being hit. If you get a bite on the beginning of a long sword drift, you might be unsure when to check the bait, and checking the bait is a huge hassle when you’re fishing so deep. For this reason, I choose to drop squid on later drifts in the day if other baits are not working.

Tougher Baits Allow Longer Drifts

When constructing a bait from a whole fish, it should be butterflied, deboned and sewn back together around a properly secured hook. Steve Sanford

Eels, whole fish and fish strips withstand a lot more abuse and keep you in the game throughout the drift. Whole fish should be butterflied and deboned and then stitched back together after the hook has been properly affixed. As with eels, whole fish can be rigged with the leader crimped to the hook through the head. Place your hook in the fish with the eye of the hook in the bait’s mouth and the point protruding from its belly. Poke a hole through the top and bottom of the head and feed your leader through both the head and eyelet of the hook, adding the crimp in front of the mouth. This keeps your bait streamlined and avoids abrasion on the leader from the bait’s teeth.

Capt. Haddon said she wouldn’t be surprised if a sock full of squid was a productive swordfish bait, as long as it was rigged properly. Quinlyn Haddon

When rigging strips of meat you intend to fold over, trim your fillet as thinly as possible and stitch your hook and leader into the center of what will become the fold. Then fold it over like you’re closing a book, with the leader being a ribbon bookmark, and sew it shut. The bait should not be a fat roll like a sub sandwich, but more of a panini. With longer baits, I sometimes snip the end and turn it into meat tassels. There are many variations to stitching up different types of baits, all of which are viable when the two aforementioned rules are followed. Have fun with it and get creative!

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Reference: [https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/howto/tips-rigging-swordfish-baits/]

Crave an adrenaline rush unlike any other? Ever dreamt of battling a prehistoric giant in the heart of the ocean’s splendor? Tarpon fishing charters offer an unparalleled adventure that will leave you breathless.  

Learn more about our trips here: https://www.sweetenufcharters.com/marathon-tarpon-fishing-charters/

State and Federal Waters of the Gulf and Atlantic

Minimum Size Limit: None. Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag. Keep tarpon, especially the gills, in as much water as is safely possible. 

Daily Bag Limit: Tarpon is a catch-and-release only fishery. One tarpon tag per person per year may be purchased when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record. Vessel, transport and shipment limited to one fish. 

Gear:

• Hook and line only.
• Snagging, snatch hooking, spearing and the use of a multiple hook in conjunction with live or dead natural bait is prohibited

Boca Grande Pass

Fishing with gear that has a weight attached to a hook, artificial fly or lure in such a way that the weight hangs lower than the hook when the line or leader is suspended vertically from the rod is prohibited when fishing for any species year-round within Boca Grande Pass. If this gear is on board a fishing vessel while inside the boundaries of the Pass, it cannot be attached to any rod, line or leader and must be stowed. Natural bait is not considered to be a weight. If the jig fishes in an illegal manner it is prohibited. Any jig that allows the attached weight to slip down the shank so that it hangs lower than the hook while the line or leader is suspended vertically from the rod is prohibited, and must be stowed so it is not readily accessible.

If the weight can slip down the shank to the bottom of the hook, as demonstrated in video below, it is prohibited.

During the months of April, May and June, no more than three fishing lines may be deployed from a vessel at any one time AND no person shall use, fish with, or place in the water any breakaway gear.

Unsure if the gear is prohibited? Call the regional office at 863-648-3200.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=97P7izJpQok%3Frel%3D0%26enablejsapi%3D1%26origin%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fmyfwc.com%26widgetid%3D1

Tarpon Jig Prohibited Example

Map of Boca Grande Pass Boundaries

Charlotte Harbor Channel LB6 (26 degrees, 42.299 minutes north; 82 degrees, 16.551 minutes west)

Concrete Pier (26 degrees, 43.165 minutes north; 82 degrees, 15.778 minutes west)

Phosphate Dock (26 degrees, 43.216 minutes north; 82 degrees, 15.517 minutes west)

Intracoastal Waterway (26 degrees, 43.216 minutes north; 82 degrees, 14.703 minutes west)

Flashing Green #75 (26 degrees, 42.299 minutes north; 82 degrees, 14.580 minutes west)

QR Test Buoy (26 degrees, 42.002 minutes north; 82 degrees, 15.448 minutes west)

Tarpon Best Fishing Practices

Tarpon is an iconic saltwater fish. When handled properly, these silver kings are more likely to survive and evade predators. Follow these guidelines to ensure tarpon remains the strong and viable fishery it is today.

Gear

Set up for success with these spin or conventional gear recommendations to catch tarpon quickly and minimize fight time.

• When using bait, use non-stainless, non-offset, barbless circle hooks.
• Use single hook rigs.
• Use tackle heavy enough by matching tackle to conditions and targeted fish size.
  • Example: If targeting large tarpon, consider using medium to extra heavy spinning rods with 5,000 to 10,000 series spinner reels and at least 12 pounds of drag, 50 to 60-pound braid, and at least 60 to 80-pound monofilament or fluorocarbon leader depending upon the selected crimp or knot-system. Use 6/0-10/0 circle hooks depending on brand and bait type.
• Have a fighting belt or chair available for additional support during the fight.
• Have a long handled dehooking tool to quickly and easily remove hooks.

Fighting

Aim to minimize fight time of tarpon and use these fighting techniques to reduce stress on the fish.

• If the tarpon rises to the surface or jumps, point rod tip towards the fish and drop rod tip down while reeling in.
• Counter the tarpon’s run by using the backbone of the rod to pull in the opposite direction and use short turns of the reel to bring line in.
• Put the butt end of the rod into your hip or use a fighting belt or chair to get leverage for the fight.
• If the fish tries to go under or around the boat, move to the front of the boat to prevent the line from breaking or becoming entangled.
• Sharks are known to prey upon tarpon during the fight. If a shark shows up, help the tarpon survive by quickly bringing the fish to the boat and cutting the line as close to the hook as possible.
• Move to another fishing location if sharks are in the area.

Handling

Keep handling to a minimum and be sure to work quickly to allow for a successful release. 

• Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water by rule, unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag.
• Tarpon smaller than 40 inches should only be handled with wet hands and be supported horizontally under the belly, if removed from the water.
• Keep the gills of tarpon in the water to minimize air exposure.
• Keep fingers away from the gills and eyes.
• Avoid dragging tarpon over the gunnel of a boat or over rocks or railings.
• Avoid delaying release by having a camera at the ready if you’re planning to take a quick picture

Release

Catch and release tarpon as quickly as possible to reduce stress on the fish. 

• Consider a no-touch release by either using a long handled dehooking tool to remove the hook or cut the line as close as possible to the hook.
• If the tarpon is gut hooked or the hook is lodged in the throat, cut the line as close to the hook as possible.
• Revive lethargic tarpon by ensuring water passes through the mouth and then over the gills or hold it horizontally in the water to allow it to pump water through its gills.
• Shorten future fight times if tarpon appear lethargic during release.

Additionally, it is also recommended to avoid fishing for tarpon from bridges or piers. Only tarpon under 40 inches may be removed from the water, so if you did hook up to a large tarpon from a bridge or pier, you would have to cut the line and leave long line trailing behind the fish, leading to entanglements and reducing survivability.

Ready to face the silver king? Book your fishing trip with the best fishing charters in Islamorada. Plan your fishing charter trip today! Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

Reference: [https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/tarpon]

Dads are pretty awesome, and there’s no better way to celebrate Father’s Day than by creating memories that will last a lifetime. Forget the tie this year – cast a line and reel in some fun fishing.

7 REASONS WHY FISHING WITH DAD IS THE BEST

One of my first attempts at casting my Snoopy-themed fishing rod resulted in the bait, the line and the rest of the rod floating in the water. Luckily dad was there to fish it out and get it back in my hands.

Having dad teach us about fishing was awesome. He baited our first hook, tied an encyclopedia’s worth of knots and taught us that fishing often transcends catching fish.

Sport fishing wouldn’t be what it is today without dads. That’s why today, in honor of Father’s Day, we pooled some of our best fishing memories to celebrate dads. The stewards of fishing!

It’s Fun.

Fishing is some of the most fun you can have with the least amount of cost! Did you know that kids and teens under the age of 16 fish for free? That’s right, up to 15 years of age, your child can fish without a license. So grab your kiddo and hit your favorite fishin’ hole… 

But before you do! Be sure to check out the FishAngler app. It is free to use, and lets dad check up-to-date weather forecasts, tide and wind information, and solunar forecast, which uses sun and moon phases for estimating the height of fish activity! Plus, the app is easy to use and intuitive for even the least tech savvy of dads out there. 

To learn more about the multiple uses of the FishAngler app check out our blog on the best app functions for anglers of every type of fishing across the country!

It’s Funny.

Fishing with kids can be very funny. From new and foreign sensations of slimy, wiggly bait to the flipping and flopping of bringing their first live fish to hand; the whole experience is unknown and exciting. Fortunately the laughs continue into adolescence and beyond!

I took a lot of trips with dad growing up, but I remember one as a teen to a local creek. There was a great fishing spot under the bridge that we went to with my uncle a lot. We woke up before the sun came up, and got donuts and hot cocoa on the way, as we’d done for years. After a couple of hours on the beach, I made a cast and remember quite distinctly hooking up to a big one. A big goose! It was a good wrestle to get that bird loose, but provided plenty of entertainment for all of the onlookers.

It Imparts Life Lessons.

Fishing with dad provides the opportunity to impart many life lessons. As James Romm accounts in “Life Lessons from ‘Fishing With Dad’”, they don’t always come packaged quite as we expect.

In trout-fishing contests at my home-town park, where boys my son’s age—he was seven or eight at the time—were pulling dozens of stocked fish from a lazy stream, we managed to get skunked. Jonah learned then that he did not have a hero dad, but a fumble-fingered classics scholar who didn’t know the difference between trout worms and nightcrawlers. His disappointment was palpable (and hurt like hell), yet, somehow, his fishing ardor endured.

It Provides Dinner.
Fishing is a great way to provide sustenance for the family on a camping trip, or a multi-day float trip down the river. Sometimes!
It was a 5-hour drive to Sunriver and too many games of “I Spy” had us ready to stretch our legs. As soon as we jumped out of the car, my dad grabbed our fishing rods and we swiftly got our first casts in. It wasn’t long before we caught our limit of channel catfish. We built a makeshift dam in the shallow water near our campsite, and proceeded to setup camp. It swiftly came to our attention,  however, that a rock had slipped and our fish had escaped! We ate beans for dinner that night.

It Teaches Patience.

The FishAngler community fosters all types of fishing, and there are some genres of angling that are more tedious than others. While many enjoy the peace and tranquility coordinating breath with front and back casts provides, others may find managing fly line to be quite cumbersome. With plenty of objects threatening to snag your line in and out of the water, patience is key when it comes to fishing line out of nearby willows or retrieving that lucky shrimp pattern from sticky reefs. 

When it comes to fishing, the opportunities to learn patience are as limitless as fish in the sea.

Grandpa remedied more than his fair share of “birds nest” baitcaster reels for us growing up. Still, his apparent skill and competence on all types of water intimidated me and my siblings! We did our best not to “mess up”, but we inevitably did, and Gramps was there to save the day. I remember one Thanksgiving we were fishing off of the dock, and after casting I plopped down to wait for a nibble. But to my surprise, I felt a sharp pain in my bottom and jumped up quickly realizing I’d sat on my brother’s treble hook. Grandpa patiently calmed me, and removed the hook with precision. I would indeed go on to fish another day.

It Teaches.

One thing dads have in common is the respect and love they share for water and fish that live in them. But with great power comes great responsibility! And the rules and regulations of fishing are no exception. Fortunately today, state fishing regulations are getting easier to manage than ever by introducing electronic licensing systems allowing anglers to buy their licenses and tag their catches all from their smartphones. 

It Makes Memories.

Probably our favorite, fishing with dad means making memories! FishAngler ambassador Ben Jones recounts fishing with dad in his native Australia:

My favourite memories were waking up before sunrise and heading out on our local inshore reefs to target Aussie Snapper! Dad would take about 15 minutes to fire up the old two-stroke Mercury, from which I can still smell the fumes. Patience was the biggest lesson I learned from dad. I might not have that quality in much of my life, but I have a lot of it when it comes to fishing!

More Tackle Boxes, Less Xboxes

At FishAngler, we believe fishing provides a great opportunity to get our families outside. If fishing is part of your Father’s Day tradition, post a photo of dad on the FishAngler app with #DadsDay in the description! A random winner will receive a Flexfit FishAngler hat. Today only! 

From all of us at FishAngler, we wish a Happy Father’s Day to dads everywhere!

Make this Father’s Day unforgettable! Book your fishing trip at Sweet E’Nuf Charters and create lasting memories. Plan your perfect Marathon fishing charter trip today! Call us at 305.610.4778 and visit our Facebook here.

Reference: [ https://blog.fishangler.com/7-reasons-why-fishing-with-dad-is-the-best/ ]