Inshore Playbook V.2

NOTES FROM 10+ YEARS OF FILMING VIDEOS FOR SALTY CAPE.

POWERED BY Light Tackle Edition

CAPT. MIKE HOGAN

Fish Smart. Fish Simple.

By Capt. Mike Hogan

Understanding how and why they are feeding

Tactical Approach that complements the situation Approach

Outfits

The right tool for the job

Lures

Match the hatch! Tells + + +

Example: Albie & Bonito Mastery Course with Capt. Mike

A Systematic Approach

The Hogy Playbook

In the “olden days” when I was fishing more days than not (insert deep-long sigh), I would have my entire tackle selection in a partially filled five-gallon bucket and 6 rods: maybe (3) top water (3) jigs, depending on the day A few light trolling rods stowed in the console I ran charters that way and did very well I fished with the same 5 or 6 lures in the same 2 or 3 colors all season That style of preparation was far more common then as it is today

Today, it’s MUCH different. It's not uncommon to see guys lugging 25lbs of lures on a trip and enough rods to command marina respect with Lake Eerie walleye anglers. Just look around at any major tackle store at all the suff. So much. Too Much.

I personally got caught up in “gear creep” too I had my wake-up moment a few years ago when we had engine troubles before a trip Loading and immediately unloading and immediately re-loading our 3 pickup’s worth of gear truly spot-lighted the absurdity of gear creep. Too many rods, accessories, tackle bags. We were ready for casting, jigging, trolling, live baiting, groundfish, AND everything in between. Perhaps scallop dredging and lobstering too!

Realistically, there was a 99% chance we were just going to end up casting rips for stripers then maybe a couple of seabass As planned We brought EVERYTHING just in case and spent stupid amounts of time managing gear, time that could be spent fishing or scouting. We easily lost hours of fishing. What’s that worth? Furthermore, all that gear was in our way all day. What was impact of that? But what was the most damaging was with too many “options” and tired brains, we were prone to “fishing ADHD” We felt compelled to use the gear we were so invested in Rather, as experienced anglers we should have been focused on cracking the code: where was the hot bite?? Simply put - we had the gear-belly-bloat equivalent of having a hard time tying our own shoes…

We became bad fishermen even though we all knew better. We were bad fisherman because we tried to “do everything” which rendered us far less effective.

Capt. Mike’s Inshore Crate: The Ultimate Angler’s Gear System

Imagine the simplicity and efficiency of a golfer preparing for a day on the course for a moment. Each club chosen for its specific purpose. This golfer knows their bag well – each club’s strength, the distance it can cover, and when to use it This is the essence of efficiency, focus, and skill.

Just as a golfer confidently picks their bag, knowing it contains exactly what they need for the course ahead, the inshore crate is your specialized fishing gear kit. It’s not about the quantity of the tools but the quality and appropriateness for the task at hand. Within this crate lies a carefully curated selection of lures and tools, each serving a distinct purpose akin to a golfer’s driver, iron, or putter

The golfer on the green, analyzing their next shot, doesn’t second-guess their club choice. They know their bag, their clubs, and the game Similarly, with the inshore crate in hand, you stand on your boat, the ocean your course, equipped with a focused selection of gear. Each lure, like a well-chosen golf club, is ready for its specific role – be it casting far into the open waters or dropping precisely where the fish thrive

In this crate, efficiency meets expertise

Every tool and lure is an extension of your angling knowledge, much like every club in a golfer’s bag is an extension of their game strategy. It’s about having the right gear at the right time, ensuring your fishing trip is as successful as a golfer’s game on their favorite course

Golf Bag Approach:

MESH CRATE SYSTEM

My rule today is that my lures must fit in one milk crate and my rods should be carried by one person in one trip to the boat.

Criteria for Inclusion:

Efficiency: Gear that is easy to pack, use, and restock The crate system is designed for fast scrambling and minimal clutter

Versatility: Lures and tools that perform multiple functions, adaptable to various fishing conditions.

Durability: Professional-grade gear that withstands the rigors of saltwater fishing.

Ease of Replacement: The ability to quickly replace favorite tools and lures

Intuitiveness: Lures that are effective with minimal input, ideal for guests or less experienced anglers

Compact Design: Everything fits within a milk crate-sized mesh bag, ensuring portability and ease of transportation.

Reediness Pack List:

Lures:

Plugs: Large poppers, dog walkers and sliders for open water and scattered fish Jigs: A selection of Hogy Epoxy Jig Lures, Heavy Minnow Jigs and Sand Eel Jigs perfect for imitating sand eels.

Soft Baits: A combination of Hogy Slowtails for slow and low fishing and Pro Tail paddles, suitable for tactical casting and mimicking various prey.

Rigging Box: Contains all necessary terminal tackle including swivels, split rings, crimps, extra hooks, and Jig- Biki rigs for versatility

Tools and Accessories:

Pliers, de-hooker, crimpers, scissors, and split ring pliers. Essential for quick adjustments and rigging on the water.

Knives of various sizes for different purposes.

Heavy-duty fishing gloves

Various leader sizes for different species and scenarios

Mesh Crate Bag Functionality:

Designed to keep gear organized and easily accessible.

Mesh construction allows for rinsing and drying of the entire bag, ensuring gear maintenance is straightforward and effective.

Clear pouches for easy identification and access to specific items

HOGY TUNA JIGGING PLAYBOOK

CASTING OUTFITS

HOGY HYBRID SPINNING ROD

The "do it all" aspect is very appealing to us in terms of fishing gear. Having a piece of equipment that is multifunctional makes it so much easier to target various species with different techniques That is exactly why we built this Hybrid Spinning Rod.

I couldn't tell you how many times I've wanted to target both big inshore bass and blues, as well as offshore schoolie bluefin in the same trip. But my boat only has so many rod holders, and things can get hectic when trying to pack a bunch of different pieces of equipment

MEDIUM-HEAVY OUTFIT MEDIUM OUTFIT

7’ Spinning Rod Medium Heavy: This rod will be your workhorse for when the keeper size stripers show up and you start using larger lures to mimic the larger baits they are feeding on This rod is great for casting larger soft plastics, jigs and plugs. I like a moderate rod action for a rod in this class as it will give me the flexibility to lob bigger lures and will handle vertical jigging with ease and comfort

Length: 7'

Action: Moderate Fast

Power: Medium-Heavy

7’ Spinning Rod Medium: This outfit is suitable for spring schoolie fishing when you are likely to be using small soft plastics, jigs, and plugs near the shoreline This rod is a good candidate for a fast action where you can be casting light lures off the tip and ensure a good hook set at long range or need quick access to backbone when setting the hook on a fish that takes a topwater plug Other uses for this rod would include freshwater fishing, light bottom fishing, and Albie and bonito fishing!

JIGGING OUTFITS

That is exactly why we built this Hybrid Spinning Rod Like most of our lures, the Hogy System: Hogy Hybrid Spinning Rod nails the overlap between BIG GAME inshore fishing and MEDIUM GAME offshore.

Reel Size: 5000 to 6000 Class

Lure Sizes: 3/4oz to 2oz

Typical Line: 40lb Braid Leader: 36” of 30lb Fluorocarbon

Capt. Mike's Casting Rods

Length: 7’

Action: Fast Power: Medium

Reel Size: 4000 to 5000 Class

Lure Sizes: 3/8oz to 1oz

Typical Line: 30lb Braid

Leader: 36” of 15lb Fluorocarbon

I carry three different outfits that allow me to cast the entire spectrum of striper and albie lures which boil down to #1 my "heavy rod" (big plug/swim-baits (1 5 to 4oz), #2 my "medium rod" (3/4 to 1 5oz) and #3, my "all things under 1oz " outfit in no particular order I frequently use each of the three on the same trip as I might be trying to imitate different baitfish in different situations I might encounter during a single trip My outfits are based around lure size They can all handle very big fish! While makes and models have changed for me over thee years, I've relied on these 3 outfit sizes over the for years for 95% of my inshore fishing

Hogy Hybrid Spinning Rod Features:

Fast Action Blank For Increase

Sensitivity

Long Casting 7' Length

Premium-Grade Cork Grip

Graphite Reel Seat

Premium Ceramic Rods

Gethere:

When to use:

Casting

Large Plugs For Stripers & Blues Casting

Light

Tackle School Size

Bluefin

Tuna

Check out this video we filmed during the 2022 season. We were casting 5.5" Charter Grade Poppers in the rips off Monomoy and catching bass up to 35"

Check out this video targeting finicky stripers keyed in on small silversides. We were casting small 3/8oz Epoxy Jigs into wads of striped bass

BOAT CASTING &

APPROACHES

This situation usually occurs just after or just before large feeds that have been in the area or at slack tide when the bait has scattered Often this situation occurs early in the morning or on low light days

3 BEST BETS

PROTAILPADDLESWIMBAIT

Popper: Call fish in from great distances with popper. Pop, then let bait sit for a a few seconds Repeat

XL Dog Walker: Trade some “popping volume” for ground covered with the faster retrieve of the Dog Walker

Protail Paddle: Cover the sub-surface level with the thumping action of a paddle. Incorporate pauses to let the lure sweep to cover more depths.

Typically blitzes occur during the peak portions of the tides; at times when there are large amounts of baitfish concentrated in the area

3 BEST BETS

CHARTERGRADE SURFACEERASER

Long Drifts Study wind and tide to determine the drifts trajectory This may be in an area with lots of birds hovering, baitfish marks on the finder, or slicks associated with bait Blind casting in open water is a numbers game The more casts you make = the more commotion in your area = more fish in your area.

Avoid running over the area that you want to fish in order to position your drift.

Tip: If there is more than one angler casting. Each angler should be using a different lure to more quickly “crack the code”

Epoxy Jig: Epoxies excel in blitzes as you have (1) Long range ability (2) a wide array retrieves from topwater “skippy” to a slow and low “cast and drop” and (3) Natural finishes to easily match the hatch including sand eels, silver sides and small squid.

Surface Eraser: As surface eraser excels similarly to the Hogy Epoxy Jig lures but you trade detail finish for longer casting range

Protail Paddle: Paddles ranging from 3 5” to 6 5” are excellent imitators of baitfish like peanut bunker, herring and pogies

You want to get in front of the school but also give them a wide birth so they don’t sense your approach Typically, your best option is to cast in front of the school or the edges, allowing the fish to find your lure. If possible, approach from the windward side which will allow you the greatest distance from the school while still maintaining reachability.

One common mistake is to run boat right up on the school; even though the fish are feeding heavily, getting too close too aggressively can put the fish down.

Having a number of rods set up with different lures is helpful as you can switch quickly and efficiently from one option to another to find out what they are “dialed in”

BOULDERS & REEFS

APPROACHES

Stripers use the structure as it supports a whole food chain, providing the opportunity to ambush unsuspecting baitfish swept by the current 85% of the fish you catch in or around the structure will be during the peak portions of the tides but the other 15% caught at slack tide might be your biggest!

3 BEST BETS

BOULDERS & REEFS CHARTERGRADEPOPPER

Popper: Target the very edges of structure great distances with popper Pop, then let bait sit for a few seconds. The closer to structure, the longer the pause

XL Dog Walker: Cover ground Be sure to try casting from different angles.

WATCH VIDEO

BOULDER FIELDS & REEFS CASTING APPROACH

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Charter Grade Slider: Turn and burn casts. Rattles will increase attention.

CASTING A RIP

In a rip line caused by a sand bar, schools of baitfish are getting swept by the tide over the sand bar or reef and made vulnerable by the commotion of the rip Stripers who like to make eating as easy as possible will lie right on or behind that rip line in ambush, picking off unsuspecting prey

3 BEST BETS

CASTING A RIP

XLDogWalker

Popper: Pop with long pauses “up tide” in calm water Speed up your retrieve as you get closer to rip

ONSHORE winds also tend to produce more waves or the kind of “white water” that bass, especially larger ones, prefer If the tide is moving over the structure, the smaller fish will be upfront and on top and often the larger fish will be a little deeper and farther back into the structure

Be tactical, notice EVERYTHING For example, a bunch of birds sitting on rocks “watching” suggests that “something” recently happened (which means it might happen again) or the birds think something is about to happen based on their past experience

WATCH VIDEO

CASTING A RIP APPROACH

Xl Dog Walker: Time your cast to the Dog Walker is positioned “horizontally” to the rip as it best swept in, just our a large squid would be struggling to avoid the rip.

Surface Eraser: Casts like a jig Fishes like a soft bait

Twitch and pause! Tip: Dead drift the lure (no retrieve) to finicky fish SurfaceEraser

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Stem the tide with your boat just in gear with enough thrust so as to just hold your position

Pick a good spot in the rip where a u-shaped gully with points on either side of it have formed

Cast uptide and somewhere between parallel and 30-degrees toward the rip line Once the lure hits the water, your focus is to get control of the line with minimal slack between you and your lure

Now let current move the bait toward the stripers that are waiting in ambush While the bait is drifting down tide impart action in the lure and your reeling is more for eliminating slack than to propel the lure forward If you time it perfectly, the lure will start swinging into the rip and directly behind your boat just at or behind the rip line 4

XLDOGWALKER

BACK BAY

APPROACHES

Lures in back bays tend to be very small and light. If the depth is less than 10-feet, small softbait paddles are ideal. If the water is a bit deeper, poppers are very effective in estuaries as their noise will travel larger distances than in open water.

3 BEST BETS

BACK BAY

Popper: Pop with long pauses “up tide” in calm water

Surface Eraser: Casts like a jig Fishes like a soft bait

Twitch and pause!

WATCH VIDEO

BACK BAYS APPROACH

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Slowtail Swimbait: Slow retrieve in as little as 1’ of water

“KERPLUNK” SCHOOLS IN OPEN WATER

The “Kerplunk” technique is ideal for scenarios when fish are feeding a little deeper than the surface action you see on top of the water In this case, bird activity is strong so a topwater presentation will likely cause a bird mishap Opting for a lure that can be “kerplunked” into the middle of the action and sunken down to the feeding fish is ideal

3 BEST BETS

“KERPLUNK” OPEN WATER

Protail Eel: Cast the lure near piles of birds and let it top Expect hits on the fall Wait as much as 60 seconds in deeper water. Retrieve as very slow pace Ideal for sand eel imitation

Epoxy Jig: Similarly, to above. If fish on teeny baits, go very light on leader

Outgoing Tide: You want to be on the open water side when the tide is flushing out the baitfish that were up inside during high tide, serving as a buffet for bass waiting in ambush. Fan casting either side of the opening will do the trick If the current swings to one side over the other, you want to be on that side.

Incoming Tide: Typically one area inside the bay will fish better than the other, especially if there is a turn or bend in the channel Learning to jig or bounce a lure at or near the bottom as the tide rises will help increase your catch rate as the tide rises since fish will often drop deeper in the water column as the tide rises

WATCH VIDEO

“KERPLUNK” OPEN WATER TECHNIQUE

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Slowtail Swimbait: ExtraExtra twin tail action on the drop. Excellent baitfish (herring etc ) imitation

Identify School of fish beneath birds. Verify with side scan if you have it

“Kerplunk the lure” right into the birds.

Let the bait drop. It is fishing “on the drop.” Let the lure do all the work

4 Hits will be subtle If anything “feels strange” crank down on it.

EpoxyJig

INSHORE CASTING ESSENTIALS

Theactionis“built-in ”The HogySliderfeaturesawider, moreerraticswimming movementasopposedtothe frantic,vibratingactionofa lippedbillplug.

Rodtipata45-degreeangle Castandreel

Thislurehasneutral buoyancy,meaningithasa horizontaldescentwhen sinking Thisisaverynatural presentation,soaseriesof pausesarerecommendedon theretrieve

Excellentherringandbunker match

Castslikeajigbutfisheslike asoft-bait

FastOnSurface

TipinWaterfastbelow surface

TwitchandPause

“NeedlefishRerieve:Slow andSteady

SlowJigginginshallow water!

Reversehooksandfish likeaDannyPlug

Anywaterconditions

AnySpecies

Withitscup-facednose,it createsatonofcommotion witheachtwitchoftherod

Regardlessofhowyoufisha popper,mostanglerslove watchingabigstripercome upandsmashthelure

Unfortunately,poppersare lesseffectiveinroughwater astheirnoise-makingability islostinthesurf

Fishwithyourrodtipata 45-degreeangle.Utilizea “Pop,Pop,pause;Pop,Pop, Pause”retrieve

Highlyversatilegeneral baitfish-shapedprofile

Built-inactionwithpaddle tail Justcastandreel Keep rodtipata45degreeangle, loweritastheluregets closer

Fishedjustbelowthesurface bykeepingyourrodtipup andmaintainingafaster, steadierretrieve

Depthisdeterminedby weight,sinktimeand retrieve

Playwithretrievespeeds Often,intermittentsurges willdrawreactionstrikes

Fishatanyrodtipangle A 45-degreeanglerodrip “up”willeliminatebottom snags

RetrievethislureSLOWLY! Butplaywithyouraction

Twitchit Jigit Straitstick it

Bounceinthesandto simulateahidingordigging sandeel

Excellentimitatorsofsand eelsandsquidduetotheir longslenderprofile

Ourbestsellingcolorsare olive,pinkandwhite

Designedforultra-slow presentationsinshallow waterornearthesurface

Featuringtwinaction-packed ribbontailsforalifelike swimmingactionatveryslow speeds,thesebaitsareideal fortargetinglethargic, pressured,orgenerally finickygamefishbyofferinga slower,morenatural presentation.

Ideallyfishedwithslow steadyswimmingaction,ora slightlystopandgoretrieve, thesebaitseffectivelyimitate unassumingmullet,herring, menhaden,shad,andmore

Theclearcoatassociated withtheresinusedforThe HogyEpoxyJig®Lure mimicsthegel-like appearanceofmanybaitfish includingsandeels, silversides,bayanchovies, andpeanutbunker Longcastsandslowersink ratethanametaljig

Thelength/weightratioof theHogyEpoxyJigis carefullybalancedsuchthat thereisnowrongwaytofish it YoucanmakeanEpoxyJig cometolifebyvarying retrievespeedandrod movementsandpositioning

Myfavoritetimetofisha spookisincalmconditions

Aspookwithagoodrattle willdrawattentionfrom prettyfaraway.Anideal situationwouldbeworkingit slowlyoverbigbouldersor somesortofstructure.For whateverreason,Idobest withspooksearlyinthe morningoratsunset

CastingRetrieve:Twitch Twitch,Pause,Twitch TwitchPause

Downside:Theydon’tfish wellinroughwater

CHARTER GRADE SLIDER

CHARTER GRADE POPPER

PROTAIL EEL

SLOWTAIL SWIMBAIT

EPOXY JIG

SURFACE SIPPING STRIPERS

SCATTERED FISH (All Levels in the Water Column)

FINICKY FISH ON SMALL BAIT

Slow surface presentations for stripers feeding near the surface.

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

When working expansive areas blind casting structure, large presentations can be used to draw in strikes from a distance

THE SOLUTION

It’s hard to beat the OG Hogy Original for topwater fishing for striperswith an unweighted or lightly weighted swimbait hook The Hogy Original’s action just speaks for itself Twitch, Twitch, Pause, Pause The Hogy Orginal is weedless on a swimbait hook but will have maximum action with a soft circle hook, screwed into the nose.

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

Stripers keyed in on baitfish loosely scattered over larger areas in all levels of the water column.

When Stripers are spread out over large areas, find a quick and effective method for covering water quickly is crucial for success.

THE SOLUTION

Select the weight you need to cast and find fish. The beauty of a paddle tail lure is that it is always “swimming for you”, even on the drop Make a long cast, let it drop And start reeling when you think you hit the desired depth Play around with retrieve speeds Starts and stops trigger bites!

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

Finicky Stripers keyed in on juvenile forage

Imitating micro-forage while maintaining casting distance and trophy grade rigging.

THE SOLUTION

The Hogy Epoxy Jig® shines when gamefish become keyed in on micro-forage. Available in a variety of sizes and imitative colors, it’s easy to match the hatch and dial in a picky striper bite. We recommend down sizing tackle and utilizing light leaders for best results The Epoxy Jig can be fished across the water column, but excels when jigged or retrieved near the surface. Vary retrieves from slow and steady to fast and skippy to dial in a finicky bite.

Suspended stripers feeding in the upper water column

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

How to target fish you’re marking in the upper water column, with limited surface & bird activity.

THE SOLUTION

The Hogy Surface Eraser is a versatile lure that can be fished many different ways In this instance when fish are suspended and feeding in the upper third of the water column, the Surface Eraser can be fished with a tip down, slow crank retrieve. JUST LIKE A SOFT-BAIT! This will allow for a just sub surface retrieve that imitates a wounded baitfish that has lost its way. Enable a few rod twitches to trigger a reaction strike out of a fish following the lure

THE BITE

Openwater Stripers feeding on large mackerel and herring near the surface.

THE CHALLANGE

When Stripers are keyed in on oversized forage, they often ignore smaller offerings. Presenting large profile baits in the feeding zone offers the best chance for success

THE SOLUTION

The Charter Grade Slider is an ideal option for casting to Stripers feeding on large baits near the surface. The Charter Grade Sliders classic side-toside kick imitates a wounded baitfish on a steady retrieve is irresistible to big Stripers. Due to the Charter Grade Sliders large size, we recommend casting on heavier outfits Pro Tip: Keep your rod tip low during the retrieve for consistent swimming action right to the boat.

Trouble Shooting Inshore: Casting

Charter Grade Slider

Subsurface Swimmer.

THE BITE

Stripers feeding on small squid in rips

THE CHALLANGE

When Stripers on keyed in on squid, usually early in the season, they can be very finicky and require matching the hatch.

THE SOLUTION

Find pockets of fish staging in rips. Position yourself up-tide from the rip and use a holding pattern by keeping the boat in gear Cast the Surface Eraser diagonal towards the rips and allow the plug to swing into the face of the rip Focus on the first two to three waves in the rip while using a medium speed twitch retrieve to skip and dart the Surface Eraser near the surface.

THE BITE

Aggressive topwater feeding Stripers on big baits

THE CHALLANGE

Big topwater feeds of oversized Stripers is often exciting and short lived Matching the profile of available forage and long casting distance can be needed.

THE SOLUTION

The Charter Grade XL Dog Walker offers excellent castablity with classic topwater walk-the-dog action perfect for targeting big stripers feeding on the surface Utilize a traditional side-to-side rod tip twitch with short pauses to easily work the bait in a seductive motion across the surface. We recommend tying direct with a jam or cinch knot for best results.

XL Dog Walker

THE BITE

Mixed class Stripers feeding over shallows & open water

THE CHALLANGE

Low light conditions often offer excellent opportunities for topwater presentations

THE SOLUTION

Few lures are as fun to fish as a topwater popper Our Charter Grade Popper offers excellent casting distance and easy-to-pop action on a variety of tackle outfits. The smaller 4-inch popper is ideal for imitating smaller forage, while the 5.5-inch model is great when larger baitfish are around Work the popper with a series of short upward rod tip pops for classic popping action When fish are finicky, quickly work the popper across the surface.

Charter Grade Popper

ALBIE FISHING APPROACHES

I wish I kept a log of the methods used for each albie I have caught over the years I suspect that a shocking percentage of fish I have caught have been on a blind cast. If you believe that fish are spooked by boat traffic, it makes sense Seeing that you are in an area with bait and feeding fish, you are already 75 percent of the way to success.

3 BEST BETS

SURFACEERASER

Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure®: The Hogy “Epo” is the favorite lure of thousands of albie anglers. The lure speaks for itself Fish Fast Slow, Medium You can’t fish it wrong.

Surface Eraser: “The rising star!” As surface eraser excels similarly to the Hogy Epoxy Jig lures but you trade detail finish for longer casting range and increased topwater commotion to call in fish A must for any albie box.

Small Poppers: Call in albies with loud pops! Particularly effective in calm water

The moderate speed approach is the ideal way to target albie and is usually associated with good fishing where there are numerous schools and plenty for everyone

3 BEST BETS

HOGYEPOXYJIGLURE®

CHARTERGRADE SURFACEERASER

Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure®: I like to”match the hatch” with the “Epos” Pink and amber for squid, olive for sand eels and shrimp for anchovies Like always, fish them fast and slow!

WATCH VIDEO

ALBIE BLIND CASTING APPROACH

Half of the effectiveness of blind casting comes from just sitting quietly and waiting and studying what you can see above water. You are looking for circling birds – especially shearwaters – nervous water from bait that is not comfortable, wakes from cruising fish and even rip lines that might pen bait in a certain area making them an easy target that would draw fish in. I’ll stop for good bait marks on the finder, birds circling, funky water that might be nervous bait or water that might be a disturbance from moving fish. You might notice a general direction the fish are following, If so, you can start to follow in that direction, too Meanwhile, everyone on board should be beating the water to a froth. One angler should be casting a large top-water slider to create some commotion as the plug lands while other anglers should focus on sub-surface retrieves until you crack the code.

WATCH VIDEO

Surface Eraser: I think of the surface eraser as an “Attractor” as compared to the “Epo” Fish it the same way but with longer casts and more surface commotion

Peanut Jigs: Pick a color! Olive for peanut bunker and shrimp for anchovies

Retrieve at a medium-fast speed, using short pauses to allow the jig to flutter.

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Keep it slow and easy No need for hard running

Idling up to a school at 10 knots or less is ideal There is no need to hurry in this situation as there are plenty of scattered feeds and they are popping up and down. If you go slow and happy, you might not even get to the school before seeing fish The main goal is to be slow and deliberate to keep from spooking fish as you close in on the distance

Approach slowly when a nearby school pops up. This is a great approach when there are a number of fish breaking in a wide area

Blind cast and believe!

ALBIE FISHING APPROACHES

To many people, running and gunning is the name of the game but it is highly disruptive to both Albies and baitfish due to loud hull noise, engines screaming and changing RPM's with boats running through schools Unfortunately, this happens way too often, even when there are plenty of fish Resist the temptation to charge around if unnecessary

3 BEST BETS

Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure®: I like to”match the hatch” with the “Epos” Pink and amber for squid, olive for sand eels and shrimp for anchovies. Like always, fish them fast and slow!

Surface Eraser: I think of the surface eraser as an “Attractor” as compared to the “Epo” Fish it the same way but with longer casts and more surface commotion

Heavy Minnow Jig: Pick a color! Olive for peanut bunker and shrimp for anchovies Retrieve at a medium-fast speed, using short pauses to allow the jig to flutter HeavyMinnowJig

3 RETRIEVES FOR ALBIES

Paying attention to your retrieves becomes key in landing false albies There are three retrieval techniques that should be considered when targeting finicky albacore

A

Skippy Retrieve: Reel “reel”-y fast on topwater so the baits are skipping across the surface

B Slow Retrieve: reel slow through the school to create a wobble-like presentation and slowly work your way through the school your targeting

C Tip Down Twitch Retrieve: Sink your baits under the school and with the tip in the water, burning it super-fast through the school

CASTING OUTFITS

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RUN AND GUN APPROACH

Once you have identified good fish to come up on, be very mindful on how you are doing so Long hang time: 10 seconds a good rule of thumb You can make it pretty far in 10 seconds. Play it cool: Charge to close the distance but back off the throttle 100 yards out from the fish I expect anglers to start casting when fish are about 50-60 yards out Upwind: Ideally you are approaching the school upwind and are able to get ahead of the fish. Upwind will allow you to make longer casts, which will allow you to stay further away from the school, spooking them less. Go around: Take the time to power around to the outside and lead the school from the front You will spook the fish if you troll or motor across the front or through the school Golden Rule: Etiquette is always important if you believe in the golden rule but even if you are a true narcissist, you are still better off keeping it classy as too much boat noise will kill the fishing.

St Croix Extreme XIS70MHF 7′ M: This rod is a rocket and as I mentioned above, does really well with lures from 3/8 to 1.25oz. This rod is a blast on Albies Not much else to say about this rod as an albie machine

Length: 7’

Action: Fast Power: Medium

Reel Size: 4000 to 5000 Class

Lure Sizes: 3/8oz to 1oz

Typical Line: 15lb Braid Leader: 36” of 15lb Fluorocarbon Leade

Shimano TZSW-70MH 7′: Sometimes you just get outgunned by the strong 2oz Heavy this is the the trick

HOGYEPOXYJIGLURE®

CHARTERGRADE SURFACEERASER

BOAT CASTING &

ALBIE TECH.

POP N' FLY FOR ALBIES

SURFACE ERASERS FOR ALBIES

The Protail Flies are designed to imitate micro-forage with an ultra-life-like swimming action and profile Several years in the making, the Hogy Protail Fly has deep roots from Capt. Mike's time as an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing guide on Cape Cod These heavy-duty softbait flys are made with the same durable soft plastic as our popular pre-rigged Protail Series

APPROACH

1

2

3

TIPS

Once the surface activity has been located, slowly motor to the outside edge of the feeding area, making sure to quietly approach the school

Make a long cast towards the outside edge of the surface activity

Use a slow, sharp twitching motion for surface popping action Utilize occasional 5-10 second pauses for finicky fish

1. When albies are spread out and holding deep working poppers on the surface can bring them up from the depths

2 Use a variety of retrieves from a slow pop and stop, to a fast “scoot” and walk the dog style retrieve

3. Protail Flies are perfect for traditional fly fishing presentations!

Check out this video targeting finicky false albacore using the Pop N' Fly technique.

Introducing the new Charter Grade Surface Eraser: These simple, effective surface plugs are designed for ultra-durable, long range, trophy surface action. These versatile plugs can be retrieved using multiple methods for side to side swimming action, quick fleeing / darting movement, or erratic surface splashing action

RETRIEVES

1

2

3

SkippyRetrieve: Begin your retrieve with your rod tip at a high angle upwards, use a fast speed retrieve to allow the Surface Eraser to skip and dart across the surface, with occasional dives underwater Begin dropping your rod tip angle as the lure gets closer to the boat

SoftbaitRetrieve: With your rod tip at a 45-degree angle, use a medium-fast speed retrieve with rapid, erratic rod tip twitches for a sub-surface soft bait style action Begin dropping your rod tip angle as the lure gets closer to the boat

NeedlefishRetrieve: Begin your retrieve with the rod tip near the water's surface, Use a medium-slow steady retrieve to allow a natural side-to-side kicking action as the eraser is retrieved

Check out this video targeting false albacore holding in rips using the Surface Eraser with multiple retrieves

ALBIE ESSENTIALS SURFACE

CastsLikeaJig FishesLikeA softBait

Thesesimple,effective surfaceplugsaredesignedfor ultra-durable,longrange, trophysurfaceaction. Theseversatileplugscanbe retrievedusingmultiple methodsforsidetoside swimmingaction,quick fleeing/dartingmovement, orerraticsurfacesplashing action.

Idealforwhenfisharekeyed inonsmallerbaitfish

Canbefishedasatopwater skippylure,orsubsurfaceas aneedlfishstylelure

Simplyput,thislureisa castingmachinebuthasless actionthatEpoxyJigLures. Thislurelikestobefished fastforbestaction

Anytime“guststo20+”are intheforecast,IhaveHeavy Minnowstiedonhalfmy rods

Notidealforcalmconditions

Ithasathickerprofileand imitatesbothsmallanchovies andsmallbutterfish.Itisalso goodforverticaljiggingfor scupandseabassunder albies

Smallprofilebutaheavy long-rangelure

Designedforultra-slow presentationsinshallow waterornearthesurface Featuringtwinaction-packed ribbontailsforalifelike swimmingactionatveryslow speeds,thesebaitsareideal fortargetinglethargic, pressured,orgenerally finickygamefishbyofferinga slower,morenatural presentation

Ideallyfishedwithslow steadyswimmingaction,ora slightlystopandgoretrieve, thesebaitseffectivelyimitate unassumingmullet,herring, menhaden,shad,andmore.

Mothernaturereally designedourhighlyimitative SandEeljigbutwedidtweak theshapejustabitforlong rangecastingandaflutteron thedrop

Theseslimcastingmachines aredesignedtoaccurately imitatesandeelsandsand lance,theirfinishand colorationisunbeatable. Offshoregradeheavyduty through-wiredframeand holographicbaitfishfinish. HeavyDutyStainlessSplit Ring

ImitativeLaserEye

TheProtailFlysare designedtoimitatemicroforagewithanultra-lifelikeswimmingactionand profile.

Severalyearsinthemaking, theHogyProtailFlyhas deeprootsfromCapt Mike's timeasanOrvis-endorsed flyfishingguideonCape Cod

Theseheavy-dutysoftbait flysaremadewiththesame durablesoftplasticasour popularpre-riggedProtail Series

WeightedKeelFor HorizontalSwimming Action

Weletnaturedothe designingonour‘Chovy Jigs

Thesetinyjigsareperfect imitatorsofsmallbay anchovies. It'sflatsidedbodyshape offersaseductivesideto sidewobbleonasteady surfaceretrieve,greatfor targetingfinickyAlbies Whenfishgodeep,the ‘ChovyJigoffersan excellentflutterfishedona dropslackjiggingretrieve SolidMetalCoreFor ExceptionalCasting Distance

Theclearcoatassociated withtheresinusedforThe HogyEpoxyJig®Lure mimicsthegel-like appearanceofmanybaitfish includingsandeels, silversides,bayanchovies, andpeanutbunker Longcastsandslowersink ratethanametaljig Thelength/weightratioof theHogyEpoxyJigis carefullybalancedsuchthat thereisnowrongwaytofish it YoucanmakeanEpoxyJig cometolifebyvarying retrievespeedandrod movementsandpositioning

Withitscup-facednose,it createsatonofcommotion witheachtwitchoftherod Regardlessofhowyoufisha popper,mostanglerslove watchingabigstripercome upandsmashthelure

Unfortunately,poppersless effectiveinroughwateras theirnoise-makingabilityis lostinthesurf

Rodtipata45-degreeangle “Pop,Pop,pause;Pop,Pop, Pause”

‘CHOVY JIG

EPOXY JIG

CHARTER GRADE POPPER

Finicky Fish Scattered Fish

Micro Bait Out of Range

THE BITE

THE BITE

THE BITE

Super finicky Albies keyed in on specific forage and long range casting in the wind.

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

When micro-forage is abundant, Albies can become very finicky, ignoring traditional baits.

THE SOLUTION

The quintessential Albie casting jig Hogy Epoxy Jigs® offer incredible versatility, excelling in a variety of applications. These ultra imitative surface swimming jigs are ideal imitators of Anchovy, Silversides, Glass Minnows and Peanut Bunker. A balanced weight/size ratio allows the Epoxy Jig to be fished at a variety of speeds and retrieve styles Pro Tip: Drop down to ultra light fluorocarbon leader when Albies are super finicky

Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure®

Classic blitzing Albie surface feeding on micro forage.

THE CHALLANGE

Getting picky Albies to commit to biting when keyed in on Micro-Forage.

THE SOLUTION

The Hogy ‘Chovy Jig is our go-to when tiny forage is abundant. Long range casting and as small as 1” long It’s easy to imitate even the smallest of anchovy, sand eel and rain bait We recommend downsizing tackle appropriately Dropping down to long 10-12lb fluorocarbon leaders and utilizing long casts can crack the code. The jigs can be fished with a stop and drop retrieve at medium to mediumfast speeds. Short rod tip twitches imitate wounded baitfish

Heavy Minnow Jig & ‘Chovy Jig

Surface feeding Albies have spread out and show limited surface activity.

THE CHALLANGE

When surface Albie feeds die down due to boat traffic, tide changes or lack of forage, it can be tricky to stay on top of feeding schools of Albies This is the best time to deploy a low and slow retrieve.

THE SOLUTION

Improving upon our classic low and slow retrieve using the 7inch Original Amber Eel The new Charter Grade Sliders offer incredible durability for all day casting. Simply run a fan casting search pattern with the slider. Utilize a low and slow, steady retrieve allowing the slider to kick seductively side to side. This action is dynamite when the bite slows down.

Albies feeding far out of range of most of your softbait and jig offerings

THE CHALLANGE

When surface Albie feeds start popping up out of range it can be tough to get a cast into the action before they go back down The key here is being armed with a lure that can cast super far, but also share the same size and profile of the bait that the albies are feeding on.

THE

Finding a lure that can cast a mile, but still be small enough to imitate micro baitfish can be tough That’s where the Hogy Surface Eraser comes into play This lure is perfect for super long casting action, all while not sacrificing size and profile. Being only 4" long, this plug is still small enough to mimic the smallest of baitfish. This lure will allow anglers to cover some serious water due to its long casting design

SHORE OUTFITS

ESTUARY OUTFIT

Estuary – Light Lures: In an estuary or flats type situation, long-distance is not needed as the fish are practically at your feet, using the contours and structure near the shoreline as their ambush points for bait that is flowing with the tide. You want an outfit that can be fished with a wide range of light lures with different actions

Length: 7’

Action: Fast

Power: Medium

Reel Size: 4000 to 5000 Class

Lure Sizes: 3/8oz to 1oz

Typical Line: 30lb Braid

JIGGING OUTFITS HOGY TUNA JIGGING PLAYBOOK

Leader: 36” of 15lb Fluorocarbon

OPEN BEACH OUTFIT HEAVY CANAL OUTFIT

Light Duty Open Beach - Medium

Lures: While this outfit may seem heavy on a boat, it is at home on a beach where you are casting heavy lures for extra profile and distance A MH/H outfit will cast lures up to 3oz with ease. If you lighten up your braid to 30lb test, you will have ample distance on lighter lures, less than 2 ounces. This rod has the necessary backbone required to turn and land a large striper that has been running with the tide

Length: 7-8’

Action: Moderate

Power: Medium to Medium-Heavy

Reel Size: 4000 to 5000 Class

Lure Sizes: 3/4oz to 1 3/4oz

Typical Line: 40lb Braid

Leader: 48” of 40lb Fluorocarbon

SURF VS BOAT RODS?

Medium/Medium-Heavy Duty Beach/Canal – Heavier Lures: The longer length is simply necessary to reach over 100 yards with relative ease.

Length: 9’

Action: Moderate

Power: Medium-Heavy

Reel Size: 6000 to 8000 Class

Lure Sizes: 1 5oz to 4oz

Typical Line: 40lb Braid

Leader: 48” of 40lb Fluorocarbon

Surf fishing spinning outfits and boat spinning outfits are similar in terms of the rating system used to describe action and power as they relate to the various types of lures you will be casting. Surf rods, however, tend to be longer overall and especially in their butt sections to help the shore angler increase their casting distance in to reach fish Like a boater’s collection, you can go crazy selecting outfits for all the different situations you might encounter but a simple and smart selection of four basic set ups will serve you well in any situation you might encounter

To fish most, you need about four rods, two of which overlap with our recommended boat collection

Estuary – Light Lures: Medium Power, Fast Action 7’ 1.

Light Duty Open Beach – Medium Lures: Heavy Power, Fast Action 8’ 2

Medium Long Range Open: 9’ Medium Heavy Power, Fast Action, 9 3.

Check out this 60 second

How-To video on shore fishing for striped bass with Charter Grade Sliders

Check out this video on surf fishing for false albacore from the beaches of Martha's Vineyard

Check out this video featuring an in-depth breakdown for shore fishing jetties for striped bass

SHORE FISHING APPROACHES

SHORELINE RIPS

Shoreline rips that occur around structure or points are often great spots to find big fish on light tackle close to the beach. The best shoreline rips have some sort of mix or combination of deep areas, holes; drop-offs, rocks, boulders, and deep basins Moving water means confused bait so blind casting in an organized manner is the ticket.

3 BEST BETS

Popper: Pop with long pauses “up tide” in calm water Speed up your retrieve as you get closer to rip.

Charter Grade Dog Walker: Cover ground in the general area with a Dog Walker Size up to XL if there are pogies in the area

SHORELINE RIPS APPROACH

Shoreline rips are best fished working your lures with the current, imitating naturally drifting forage. Work your lures at a 45-degree angle, swimming them across the current Work a variety of depths from the surface to the bottom to locate feeding fish

Surface Eraser: Fish just like a micro pencil popper if bass are keyed in on small baits Size up according to range

Jetties are serious producers, although they can be fished around the clock, they often produce best at night The best jetties offer some sort of rip line and give you access to get behind some sand bars.

3 BEST BETS

Dog Walker: Cover ground with Dog Walkers

Charter Grade Slider: Target suspended fish with a swimming plug with rattles. CHARTERGRADESLIDER

1 As you extend your casts, let your bait sink deeper Working the entire water column

Begin your first series of casts well above the rip and continue working closer to the rip

As you drop into the rip, extend your casts

Popper: Make noise with poppers PRIMETIDES

Jetties often extend offshore and offer shore anglers the easiest access to deepwater haunts These areas offer an abundance of current and structure. Fishy areas include high current area, sand bars and the adjacent beach surf

Fish the swing in the rip Often the rip on a jetty will be light Sub-surface paddle tails creates commotion and turbulence

Work the surf created by sand bars Fan cast around them

If there are multiple bars, inside the jetty, a slowly retrieved paddle tail can help find scattered fish.

Fan cast the open water, distance is often needed, but don’t forget fish can be at your feet, especially at high tide

SHORE FISHING APPROACHES

OPEN BEACH

There is often more than meets the eye at an open beach Structure-wise, you have gradual drop-offs, fast dropoffs, sand bars, deep troughs, rocks and boulders. You’ll want noise, range, eels and micro lures in your arsenal.

5 BEST BETS

OPEN BEACH

Popper: NOISE

CHARTERGRADE POPPER

CHARTERGRADEDOGWALKER

CHARTERGRADESLIDER

Slider: SUSPENDED FISH

The deep-water trough between the beach and sand bars has probably given the most 50lb bass to shore anglers throughout the Northeast A dropping tide is ideal. This is the perfect place to fish a lightly or unweighted soft bait A light entry to the water is ideal

Fish a gradual rise at low tide, incoming. You can wade out to get in deeper water where fish will be running along the edge Fish all water level columns. Vary retrieve speed between fast and slow.

The other side of the surf rolling onto a sand bar fishes best on a dropping tide. 3

BACK BAY

The first step is identifying the tide direction. You want to fish on the side the tide is moving toward Although this is a light tackle fishery, big fish get inside, particularly in the spring and fall.

4 BEST BETS

BACK BAY

CHARTERGRADEPOPPER

Dog Walker: AREA SURFACEERASER

Popper: Noise to call in fish

4

5

6

Surface Eraser: LONG RANGE

PRIMETIDES

troughs

If you’re lucky enough to find a beach with a good feedline, fish the 180-degree span between the two structure points. A paddle tail makes a good search bait

Boulders are simple and easy to fish Cast over and around all sides of the structure. Boulders can be super effective at slack high tide

Often fish will be breaking outside of reach from a second set of bars A long range metal or epoxy jig will help you reach those fish.

Micro Epoxy Jigs: Match teeny baits Slower sink rate then metals

Surface Eraser: Range Fish like soft bait

Slowtail Swimbait: Slow crank in as little as 1’ of water. Tip up.

BACK BAYS APPROACH

1

PRIMETIDES

You want to be on the open water side when the tide is flushing out the baitfish that were up and inside during high tide, serving as a buffet for bass outside waiting in ambush Fan casting either side of the opening will do the trick. If the tide banks to one side over the other, you want to be on the inside opening, but if that is inaccessible, both sides will fish 1 hour into high tide is ideal The water needs to be really moving to set up the “buffet”.

2

The inverse is true on the incoming tide.

Any tributaries feeding into the bay will fish well at the early stages of the outgoing tide Move to the larger opening once they start to dry up

PROTAILEEL Protail Eel: Eels in

SHORE FISHING APPROACHES

With such high volumes of water running by your feet each minute, there is endless potential for bait and fish to blowby. The challenge here is how to deal with such fast-moving water If fish are holding deep, which they are in canals 85% of the time, you’ll be required to fish the swing

3 BEST BETS

Surface Pencil/Surface

Eraser: Long Range Top water Action. Up to 3oz. Fast Retrieve

Charter Grade Slider: Up to 6oz Slider will cast far Sink Fast Lipless swimming Action easy to deal with in current.

PRIMETIDES

1 Cast up tide and let your bait sink to the bottom How far you cast up tide will be dictated by the current conditions and the amount of lead you are throwing The goal is to situate your cast so that the lure is touching the bottom when it’s perpendicular to you The fishing really starts when the lure begins to “swing.” If you are having trouble getting down with a paddle, switch to an eel or a metal

Heavily Weighted Softbaits: Up to 6oz Err on heavy When fish are feeding near the surface. Utilize topwater presentations using the Popper or Epoxy Jig skipped along the surface Be sure to cast well up tide and retrieve your lure through the swing.

SHORE ALBIES

Catching an albie from the beach is the ultimate way to catch these speedsters Long range casting in a compact sized lure is the name of the game Commonly targeted near coastal jetties, inlets and open stretches of beaches. The most productive shore fishing techniques utilize surface retrieves with Epoxy Jigs™ and small profile Sand Eel Jigs, Peanut Bunker Jigs and Heavy Minnows.

3 BEST BETS

SHORE ALBIES

2oz Epoxy Jig: Advantage is you can fish slow.

Disadvantage larger size

2oz Heavy Minnow Jig: Fat jig adds weight with girth. Long range in small package Fishes fast

Surface Eraser: Tear shaped and weighted for casting.

Awesome topwater eats

SHORE ALBIES

PRIMETIDES

When Albies are actively feeding on the surface, utilize the “Skippy Retrieve” to accurately imitate fleeing baitfish near the outside edges of the surface feeding area This naturally erratic action is irresistible to nearby Albies. To execute properly, keep your rod tip at 10’o clock while using a medium speed retrieve, the Epoxy Jig™ should break the surface of the water every 3-4 reel rotations

As a surface feed subsides, the “Low and Slow” retrieve is perfect for searching out individual fish still lurking in the area. Maintaining an 8’o clock rod position, use a slow-medium speed retrieve to work your bait in a naturally swimming motion. This non-erratic action work perfectly with the Sand Eel Jig and Peanut Bunker Metals

WATCH VIDEO

WATCH VIDEO

Theactionis“built-in ”The HogySliderfeaturesawider, moreerraticswimming movementasopposedtothe frantic,vibratingactionofa lippedbillplug.

Rodtipata45-degreeangle Castandreel

Thislurehasneutral buoyancy,meaningithasa horizontaldescentwhen sinking Thisisaverynatural presentation,soaseriesof pausesarerecommendedon theretrieve

Excellentherringandbunker match

SURFACE ERASER

Castslikeajig Fisheslikea softbait

Multipleretrievemethodsfor sidetosideswimmingaction, quickfleeing/darting movement,orerraticsurface splashingaction

Idealforwhenfisharekeyed inonsmallerbaitfish

Canbefishedasatopwater skippylure,orsubsurfaceas aneedlefishstylelure

Multiplesizesforcasting range

Withitscup-facednose,it createsatonofcommotion witheachtwitchoftherod Regardlessofhowyoufisha popper,mostanglerslove watchingabigstripercome upandsmashthelure Poppersare lesseffectivein roughwaterastheirnoisemakingabilityislostinthe surf

Rodtipata45-degreeangle “Pop,Pop,pause;Pop,Pop, Pause”

Highlyversatilegeneral baitfish-shapedprofile

Built-inactionwithpaddle tail Justcastandreel Keep rodtipata45degreeangle, loweritastheluregets closer

Fishedjustbelowthesurface bykeepingyourrodtipup andmaintainingafaster, steadierretrieve

Depthisdeterminedby weight,sinktimeand retrieve

Playwithretrievespeeds Often,intermittentsurges willdrawreactionstrikes

Fishatanyrodtipangle A 45-degreeanglerodrip

“up”willeliminatebottom snags

RetrievethislureSLOWLY! Butplaywithyouraction

Twitchit Jigit Straitstick it

Bounceinthesandto simulateahidingordigging sandeel

Excellentimitatorsofsand eelsandsquidduetotheir longslenderprofile

Ourbestsellingcolorsare olive,pinkandwhite

AttractorColors:Bright

wobbleonasteadysurface retrieve

Theclearcoatassociated withtheresinusedforThe HogyEpoxyJig®Lure mimicsthegel-like appearanceofmanybaitfish includingsandeels, silversides,bayanchovies, andpeanutbunker Longcastsandslowersink ratethanametaljig Thelength/weightratioof theHogyEpoxyJigis carefullybalancedsuchthat thereisnowrongwaytofish it YoucanmakeanEpoxyJig cometolifebyvarying retrievespeedandrod movementsandpositioning

Myfavoritetimetofisha spookisincalmconditions Aspookwithagoodrattle willdrawattentionfrom prettyfaraway.Anideal situationwouldbeworkingit slowlyoverbigbouldersor somesortofstructure.For whateverreason,Idobest withspooksearlyinthe morningoratsunset

CastingRetrieve:Twitch Twitch,Pause,Twitch TwitchPause

Downside:Theydon’tfish wellinroughwater

Peanut Jigs

REPURPOSED OUTFIT

The first will be familiar if you have read the section on casting outfits: the Shimano TZSW-70MH (seven-foot/heavy power/moderate action) I mentioned above that this rod has a very slow action… As you might gather from my videos, I am a big fan of slow vertical jigging with weighted soft plastics This rod imparts a deadly action to a jig and it can also handle jigs up to four-ounces without overloading or over-stressing the blank You obviously want a rod with some back-bone, but a steady parabolic bend will handle a strike better and result in better hook ups. Rods that are too stiff on a vertical strike will often pop the hook and result in dropped fish.Unfortunately, this rod is no longer available via Shimano

When to Use: Casti

Action: Modera

Power: Heavy Length: 7'

Reel Size: 6000

Lure Sizes: 1oz

Typical Line: 4

Leader: 30-40l

DEDICATED JIGGING OUTFIT

My dedicated jigging rod is the St Croix Mojo Jigging MJJS66MMF (6.5-foot/I bought this rod on a whim after seeing it at the 2016 ICAST show It has a relatively moderate action, but it is not overly “slow” and sloppy. I would call this rod more of a hybrid in terms of length because it is a little shorter than average for casting and a little longer than average for jigging It handles vertical jigging with heavier Epoxy Jigs and soft plastics such as the Pro Tail Paddles and Eels, but it can also cast them if necessary It has the ability to fish heavy enough lures at target depths. I often jig in up to 80’ of water in heavy currents and regularly fish with 4 to 6oz jigs at peak tides and often as light as 2oz at slack.

When to use: Vertical Jigging Heavy

Action: Moderate

Power: Medium

Length: 6'6"

Reel Size: 5000-6000 size

Lure Sizes: 2oz to 6oz

Typical Line: 30lb Braid

Leader: 20-40lb Fluoro

Why Use Rods Specifically For Jigging?

Your casting gear will work acceptably for vertical jigging in a pinch, but a good dedicated striper jigging rod will make it easier and more enjoyable when using this technique. The very nature of vertical jigging makes selecting a rod designed for this technique a wise decision For example, a true vertical jigging rod is typically shorter and features a more parabolic action than a rod used for casting The shorter length allows for better control when vertical jigging since, as the name suggests, the goal is to keep contact with your lure when it is straight below you A longer rod simply extends the distance you are away from the ideal vertical orientation, making it more cumbersome to control the jigging action and feel subtle pick-ups Vertical jigging rods not only have to feature sufficient backbone or power to control and bring a fish to the surface, often from significant depths, but their more moderate, parabolic action will handle a strike better Rods that are too stiff will often result in popped hooks when a fish hits a lure that is being vertically jigged As mentioned above, vertical jigging is often practiced in deep water; I often use this technique in 80 or more feet of water that features heavy currents The use of four to six-ounces jigs is common practice and a shorter rod handles that weight more efficiently, while also allowing an angler to scale back to lighter jigs when the current eases or slacks off

Check out this video filmed in NJ. We were snap jigging Hogy Sand Eel Jigs for suspended stripers

Check out this video where Capt. Mike Hogan and Capt. Cullen Lundhold of Cape Star Charters heads out to deep water in Cape Cod Bay targeting finicky Stripers feeding on Sand Eels suspended in 70' - 90' depths

JIGGING APPROACHES

Fast jigging is associated mostly with metals The bites tend to be more aggressive but you need to also pay careful attention to bites on the drop

2 BEST BETS

Assist Hook Rigged Sand Eel Jig: Send to bottom and fast crank with imparted jigging motions Scale up to 8 5oz to get down in deep water.

Inline Rigged Epoxy Jig: is an ideal “fast” jig in depths under 60 feet of water. This lure will make commotion by fluttering on the drop and come “alive” with just a medium retrieve speed, allowing for adequate time “in play” before reaching the surface.

SLOW JIGGING

Thebestjiggingtechniqueforfishingwithsoftbaits,often underutilized It’sagreattechniqueforfishyouseeonthefish finderthat“won’tbiteanything” FAST JIGGING 1

BOAT FAST JIGGING APPROACH

Drop to the bottom or below targets identified on fish finder Engage and reel quickly while jerking the rod - cranking fast a furiously to the surface

Drop

FAST JIGGING BENEFITS

Cover all levels of the water column. Speed allows coverage of all depths of the water column quickly

Speed elicits reaction strikes from finicky fish

Ideal for heavy current – frequent resets.

3 BEST BETS

SLOW JIGGING

Protail Paddle: When bass are keyed in on herring or other bait fish Drop to bottom and crank back up slowly. Repeat. SANDEELJIG

Protail Eel: Ultimate Sand Eel pattern Impossible to fish this lure too slow. Drop to the bottom and let sit Slowly raise tip and drop Crank up a bit. Then drop again

Assist Hook Rigged Sand Eel Jig: Downsize sand eel jig weight to “just enough” and fish slowly like you would the soft bait sand eel above.

You’reabletostayinakeystrikezoneforaverylongtime

1 2

3

SLOW JIGGING APPROACH

Slowly

4 Every few moments, change the depth by 10-feet using slow cranks, and repeat the slow jig method.

Drop back to the bottom and repeat

JIGGING APPROACHES

TWITCH JIGGING

Twitch jigging is a variation of the Slow Jig with the only difference being a series of sharp fast twitches in the rod. It’s almost like you are vibrating the lure with rapid rod tip twitches This technique works particularly well with the Hogy Sand Eel Jig.

Its long, slender profile responds with a lot of jerking rod tip motions. The huge benefit of this technique is that you can really dial in a certain depth This is a useful method when “sniping” fish you have identified on the fish finder

3 BEST BETS

TWITCH JIGGING

Protail Eel: Soft baits + frequent twitching jigs = serious action

Sand Eel Jigs: Long slender design of the sand eel jig responds extremely well to “twitch jigging.”

Epoxy Jig: The Epos light weight relative to it’s size (Not being lead!) allows for a highly responsive twitch action Pink and glow are excellent attractor colors

TWITCH JIGGING APPROACH

1

2

Drop to a specific depth that you are targeting

Twitch your rod with fast, short movements

Once you have too much line out from the boat drifting away from your lure, reel in and repeat.

You’re able to stay in a key strike zone for a very long time Faster motions might trigger a reaction strike

Allows metal lure depth and softbait action.

DEAD STICKING

If you are drifting for an extended period while blind casting, it’s often a good idea to drop a softbait down deep and park it in the rod in the holder It’s truly embarrassing to think about how effective this technique is as compared to all the energy and efforts anglers put into fooling striper.

While dead sticking you are literally just putting the rod in the holder and letting the boat do EVERYTHING. This is 100% a soft bait method as the plastic is flexing with each rock of the boat

JIGGING APPROACHES

STRUCTURE JIGGING

You could argue that stripers and trout are similar in how they stage on structure in heavy current. While in bigger, deeper waters, a striper might behave like a trout waiting for a fly when it stages behind drop-offs, boulders, wrecks or whatever large structure might be present, eagerly waiting for a bait fish to be swept down by the tide

2 OPTIONS

1

STRUCTURE JIGGING

Anchor/Positioned in front of the structure and drift backwards.

Make repeated drifts

In either case, the key point here is that you are attempting to imitate a bait fish being swept down with the tide, over the available structure -- all with your rod and lure

Anchored/Positioned: Positioning yourself in front of the structure is a great method to focus on just one point of the structure you are targeting Be sure to have a plan for hooking up with a large fish that requires you to drift off anchor quickly

1.

Anchor or maintain enough forward gear to hold the boat in position about 50 feet in front of the structure

2

3

Drop your lure to the bottom and jig it upwards four or five times.

Once you feel the lure rising off the bottom, drop it back down

SEARCH

HOT! Search and Drop is the most tactical variation of jigging in that the captain and crew work hand in hand ready to coordinate the drop. Each angler is poised and ready for the drop at a moment’s notice.

2 BEST BETS

SEARCH & DROP

Sand Eel Jigs: Bust out the metal for daytime fish in hanging in deep water

Drop it and twitch it!

B

SLAPPYEEL

1

Pinpoints finicky fish

Slappy Eel: The nighttime eel approach! Effective size can range from 7” to 13”. Weight according to depth Use the least amount of weight as possible for maximum softbait action

The steady RPM’s of the boat will not spook the fish

2 Covers ground while still being able to study topwater and fish finder 3.

STRUCTURE JIGGING APPROACH

Drifting: I tend to favor drifting, personally, over anchored structure jigging, as you can fish all areas around a piece of structure In many cases, stripers will position themselves in a number of different places around the structure. Drifting is also ideal when vertically jigging rips caused by a shoal. By not being tethered to the bottom, you are able to move around more easily and try different spots.

1. Drop your lure to the bottom and jig it upwards four or five times 2

Run up tide about 200 feet in front of the structure you would like to fish.

3.

Once you feel the lure rising off the bottom, drop it back down.

fish and drop

TheHogySandEelhasa mediumfastsinkrate withperiodicflutters It fisheswellathighspeed, whichmakesitagotoin speedjigging

It’slongslenderdesign lendsitselfverywellto thetwitchyjig,a techniquewhereyoudrop theluretoaspecific depthandtwitchtherod withsharp,short,rapid snaps

Oliveisforsandeels!

PROTAIL PADDLE & THUMPER

Pairedwiththebluefin tunaandtarpon-tested UltraBarbarianJig,these Swimbaitsarereadyto tackleanytrophyspecies. DesignedforDIYanglers, theProtailThumperis designedforultrathumpingvibrationand wobble,durability,and simple,perfectrigging everytime.

Eachbaitisinfusedwith high-visibilityUV pigmentandheavy-duty blendedsoftplasticfor solidjighead connections

Thesecretweaponof HogyAmbassadorEric "Slappy"Harrison TrophySizedSoftBait JigginEel

HandPouredClassic3X SoftPlastic LongTaperedWiggling EelTail

DeadlyOnFishThatLove BigEels

DesignedForBarbarian SeriesJigHeads

Theclearcoatassociated withtheresinusedforThe HogyEpoxyJig®Lure mimicsthegel-like appearanceofmanybaitfish includingsandeels, silversides,bayanchovies, andpeanutbunker.

Longcastsandslowersink ratethanametaljig

Thelength/weightratioof theHogyEpoxyJigis carefullybalancedsuchthat thereisnowrongwaytofish it.YoucanmakeanEpoxyJig cometolifebyvarying retrievespeedandrod movementsandpositioning

Theheavierversionsof theHogyProTailare designedforjigging

Thedropissloweronthe PaddlesthantheEelsdue tothevibratingtailon theformer,butfast enoughtocoverthewater columnonavertical presentation

Yougettwospeedsinone jig:slowonthewaydown withthepaddleandfast onthewayup

Dropthebaittothe desireddepth Slowly raiseanddroptherodtip Thiswillsimulatea woundedbaitfish.

Trouble Shooting Inshore: Jigging

Open water Stripers feeding on plumes of Sand Eels in various levels of the water column. THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

Stripers bucket feeding on dense sand eel schools and not focsing on singular baits. It’s difficult to get “noticed.”

THE SOLUTION

Fish adjacent to the plums of bait They are too think to compete with You are targeting stripers that have been separated from the feed. You have two options:

2

Match the hatch: Olive pattern an focus at a spefic depth either slow jigging or twitch jigging.

1. Speed Jig an attractor color like pink

In either case, you are seeking a reaction strike

Sand Eel Jig

Finicky stripers feeding on various “finfish” in shallow water.

Stripers are keyed in on bigger baits This can be a challenge if you are in shallow water 60' or less. A big metal jig would be too heavy for this application. THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

THE SOLUTION

The Epo’s light weight relative to it’s size (Not being lead!) allows for a highly responsive twitch action

Drop the Inline Epo to the target depth and keep it there by slow jigging or “twitch jigging.”

Match the hatch with a silver presentation and an oversised inline single hook.

2oz Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure (Inline)

Stripers keyed in on ultra-small forage like silversides

When bass get keyed in on micro-forage hatches later in the summer, the bite can be downright tough to get dialed in!

THE SOLUTION

Go ultra light with smaller Epos, as light as 3/8oz if you30' or less

Be sure to drop down to light fluorocarbon leaders. 12lb to 15lb is sometimes what it will take.

Short twitching retrieve will make the EPO come alive

Micro Hogy Epoxy Jig

Lure (Classic)

Scattered and suspended Stripers feeding on large sand eels fin open water.

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

When bass are targeting small clusters of big sand eels they will be very focused specific schools of sand eels. This can be a challenge if mid level in water colum and stsaying suspended.

THE SOLUTION

Kerplunk it! Find sitting birds and investigate. If the birds are annoyed and reluctant to move, that’s a good sign they are sensing life below them If you have side scan fish fisnder, even better!

Cast the protail eel and let it slowly drop. Stop the bait at the desired depth and jig it until you feel like you are out of the zone. Bring it in and repeat.

Big Sand Eel Imitators.

SCUP

Hogy Jig Biki Rig 3/0 : The heavy gauge wire makes it difficult to set the hook with an undersized fish, which will reduce the risk of injury to small, fragile fish and reduce the time spent catching undesirable fish

Tactical Jig: Hogy Squinnow Jig Scup are surprisingly aggressive when it comes to lures You’ll want to drop the jig to the bottom and target the bottom 10-feet of the water column You’ll find the best success with short and slow jigging motions; scup have small mouths and you want to give them the time to get the hook. Sometimes, I will re-rig with an inline 1/0 Live Bait hook

Strategy: Using your fish finder, look for a rocky bottom with deep holes, ledges or drop offs You can count on finding scup or pogies around most structure in 100-feet or less. Like most other salt-water species, they’ll be moving with the current on both the incoming or outgoing tides. Some shore anglers do better on either side of high tide as water may get to shallow at the bottom stages.

SEABASS

Hogy Jig Biki Rig 3/0 or 5/0: When targeting sea bass, I upsize my hooks to 5/0 as sea bass are aggressive feeders and have huge mouths in comparison to their body size. Switching to a tube teaser style rig as the tubing will serve as chafe gear keeping the line from fraying due to their sandpaper-like mouths

WATCH VIDEO

Tactical Jig: Hogy Squinnow Jig (Shallow) In 25’ or less I tend to favor the slow rounded shape of the Hogy Squinnow jig Not only is the jig less prone to snags, but the lure also has a fluttery action with slow short jigging motions If the current gets too strong, the smaller more compact Heavy Minnow jig will hold bottom better.

Tactical Jig: Hogy Flutter Pitch Jig (Deep) 30’ Plus or when targeting large sea pass. The teaser assist on this jig will perfectly match the teasers on the Hogy Jig Biki Rig Fish the flutter Pitch with long slow sweeps of the rod for sea bass

Strategy: Sea bass love wrecks; any wreck you see on your chart would be a good place to start. Otherwise, similarly to scup, any bottom structure such as rocks, live bottom, drop offs, holes and ledges are also tell-tale, fishing hot spots when targeting sea bass

SIMPLE SEA BASS FISHING

DRIFTING STRUCTURE

Drifting over structure is a great way to begin targeting groundfish This simple technique can be achieved by reading your boat drift before positioning your boat ahead of bottom structure and allowing wind and current drift the boat over the structure

Tip: Do not run over the structure you intend to fish when setting up a new drift. Especially in shallow water.

SQUID JIGGING

The Hogy Hi Low Rig: Use empty Loops for Squid Jigs The typical squid rig consists of a “hi-lo- rig with two dropper loops with squid jigs connected to them connected with barrel swivel and 1to 2 oz bank sinkers for weight Some days squid can be finicky other less so. If you have it handy, 10-20 pound clear fluorocarbon is ideal for squid fishing on Cape Cod

Tactical Jig: The Hogy Squid Jig Pink is perhaps the most popular color but the four primary colors for squid jigging on Cape Cod are Amber, Pink, Glow and Green

Strategy: You’ll see the fleet if there is a concentration of squid Many of these boats will be anchored so be respectful Find your most productive spot and try to anchor right over it. That can be a small pile of rocks or structure where the squid lay their eggs You don’t have to be right in the fleet to catch the squid. Drift over the area until you start catching. Don't stay in the same spot all day Move around

Hogy Jig Biki Rig 3/0: Tautog have funny mouths with thick skin that can be difficult to hook. For that reason, I like needle sharp, live bait hooks for fast penetration Green crabs are the bait of choice; cut them in half with simple kitchen scissors and remove the hard top shell to increase hook up rations. Use the lightest weight as necessary to hold bottom – this will help reduce snags

Tactical Jig: Rounded

Strategy: It’s all abou Tautog I love rock p feet of water, particu are near other rock p bounce between spot Tautog are very lazy not swim very far to eat Therefore, you want your bait to be right in front of their nose Rather than drifting, you’ll want to anchor directly over the structure you intend to fish. Moving tide is recommended but I have had a number of good outings at slack tide in low light Because of their funny mouths and laziness, they can be tricky to hook. I recommend using a long musky rod with moderate action, which is good for quick hook sets – the longer span of the 8-foot rod will drive the hook faster but the softness of the moderate action will not whip the hook of the tautogs mouth

TOG FLUKE DRIFTING RIPS ANCHOR STRUCTURE

Hogy Jig Biki Rig 3/0 or 5/0: There are probably hundreds of different styles of fluke rigs on the market, each of which is very effective, and often come rigged with a series of spinners, floats and teasers that are designed to attract fluke off the bottom While I agree that these rigs are effective, I prefer a simpler rig with fewer tangles I tip my teasers with on on the short line and one long piece on the this rig is that the “biki” style teasers will s water and will continue to be fishing, even stolen.

Tactical Jig: Hogy Sand Eel jig works partic well for fluke and come in sizes for the fam large Nantucket fluke in 100’ of water in str currents (8 5 to 12oz) These jigs feathers the same “sabiki” style assist hoo that matches the Hogy Jig Biki Rig Many anglers will ad an inline single hook to the split ring and tip it with squid

Strategy: I typically find fluke around shoa Fluke are aggressive feeders and spread out into areas where distracted baitfish are likely to be swept down with the tidal currents While some spots are better than others, textbooks suggest that a shallow shoal nearby a deep drop-off very close by will likely have fluke in season. Fluke are active fish and move around a lot so drifting with the current is best I break down a fluke spot into two plays: the deep side of the rip and the rip itself, caused by tide running over the shoal. I usually start in the shallow area and make a few drifts over the shoal Sometimes you’ll find more action in the rip but sometimes the fish tend to be smaller

Tip: When try to catch tautog, anchoring directly over the rock pile is critical. Figure out your drift and how much scope you’ll need to let out on your anchor so that you can drop your rigs directly on top of the rocks

Drifting over structure is a great way to begin targeting groundfish This simple technique can be achieved by reading your boat drift before positioning your boat ahead of bottom structure and allowing wind and current drift the boat over the structure.

Tip: Do not run over the structure you intend to fish when setting up a new drift. Especially in shallow water.

OPTIONAL BAIT TIPS WATCH

Scup: Crystal style teasers. Tipped with squid, clam or sea worms

Sea Bass: Hair or Tube style teasers Tipped with squid

Tautog: Hair style teasers Tipped with Green Crabs cut in half

Fluke: Hair or tube style teasers Bait will up your game by 50%. Squid is the most popular bait.

Cod and Haddock: Hair or Tube style teasers Tip squid or clam.

Ultralightweightmultipurposejigidealfor jigginginlessthan30'of water

Thickclearepoxycoat refractslightatshallow depths.

Highlyresponsiveaction onultralighttackle Scup,SeaBass,Tog, Fluke

GROUNDFISH ESSENTIALS

MediumtoHeavyweight jigdesignedforheavydutyinshore groundfishing

Multi-purposejigthat excelsinlighttackle verticaljigging applications

Roundedbodywithalow centerofgravityresults inahyper-wobbleaction whenjiggedslowly

Varietyofweightsfor fishingindeopthsupto 120'

Scup,SeaBass,Tog, Fluke.Cod,Haddock

Mediumweightmulti purposejigfordepthsup to75feetrequiringa smallprofile presentation

FastSink

FishlikeatraditionalJig Scup,SeaBass,Tog, Fluke

SURFACE ERASER

Initiallydesignedasa castinglure,thisplugcan berepurposedasan effectiveground-fishing jiginveryshallowwater. Keelweightingsystem allowsforaunique flutteringaction

Small,slenderdesignis perfectformatchingthe hatchofmicrobaitand sandeels.

Multipleriggingoptions tobetteraccommodate verticaljigging

Designedforbalanced visibilityinavarietyof conditions

Featuringauniquesoft stylepaintfinishwhich providesanaturalfeelto thejigbody,encouraging squidtograbandhold Lifelikelegsfeature10X strongsoftplasticfor extremedurability

Stickysharpstainless squidhooksgripandgrab quickly

UVinfusedplasticand glowpigmentsentice bitesfromfinicky cephalopods

HogyJig-BikiRigsare designedtobepaired withyourfavoritemetals fortargetingavarietyof groundfishspecies

Attractivecrystal-flash teaserscallfishinfroma distanceandgetfinicky fishtochew Theserigsareidealfor seabass,scup,striper, cod,snappersandtog

HeavyWeightmultipurposeJigwithfastsink ratefordepths upto350' It’slongslenderdesign lendsitselfverywellto thetwitchyjig,a techniquewhereyoudrop theluretoaspecific depthandtwitchtherod withsharp,short,rapid snaps

Longprofilestirsbottom mudwhen“thumping A fishattractingmethods Fluke,SeaBass,Cod, Haddock

HogyJig-BikiRigsare designedtobepaired withyourfavoritemetals fortargetingavarietyof groundfishspecies

Attractivecrystal-flash teaserscallfishinfroma distanceandgetfinicky fishtochew

Theserigsareidealfor seabass,scup,striper, cod,snappersandtog

TUBE BIKI RIG

HOGY TUNA JIGGING PLAYBOOK

TROLLING OUTFITS

SPINNING OUTFIT

Long Rod (Musky Rods): I think that musky rods are the best-kept secret in saltwater fishing. In this particular case, I like musky rods for trolling on boats with outboards as the added length helps clear propellers They are also great for clearing lobster pots when trolling in fishy areas. Another nice feature is that they are light, and have long butt sections which make it easier for youngsters to sit down and fight a fish. I pair my musky rod with lead core line, but they play great double-duty rods for bottom fishing, live bait for stripers, and throwing large wooden striper plugs.

Long Rod St. Croix Musky KD01910 8' : Extra length ideal for clearing lines around obstructions

The long butt section works well for seated fishing

Double duty for bottom fishing, and casting large plugs.

Best used with lead-core or in-line trolling weights.

CONVENTIONAL OUTFIT

Hogy Hybrid Trolling Rod: We've designed this ultra-fun rod to be the perfect blend of parabolic action, length, weight, and function for light tackle inshore and offshore trolling This no-frills workhorse conventional rod addresses the challenges we've had finding suitable tackle for trolling the Hogy Perfect Tube and Perfect Squid

Why Parabolic Action and what is it? These rods offer a softer bend from the rod tip towards the butt section This forgiving utility allows the angler to feel every pull of the drag and stroke of the fish's tail This forgiveness is beneficial for trolling, allowing the rod to absorb the strike firm hook sets while used for trolling ons

TFITS

fect Trolling Rod Features: -Flex Parabolic Action To Store 5'6" Length ium-Grade Cork Grip hite Reel Seat uides

TROLLING ROD TIPS

Recommended Reels: Avet JX6/3 2-Speed Daiwa Saltist STTLD30-2SPD Shimano Talica 16II TAC16II

Out of casting, jigging and trolling for striped bass, I would say that trolling is the most practiced technique for stripers The basics of trolling for stripers are easy for novices to pick up quickly, but there are also many advanced trolling techniques to learn that can help in catching more fish under specific conditions

Here’s what I love about trolling for stripers: You can search large areas easily and easily adapt to a tactical approach You can target deep moving fish most effectively.

Trolling is the ideal technique for larger boats with more than just one or two anglers

Trolling is a great technique for beginners because it requires less time to develop the skills needed to become proficient

Check out this video trolling Charter Grade Squid Plugs along the rips at MiddleGround for striped bass

Check out this video where Capt Mike shows how to troll for bass using Hogy InLine Trolling Weights and Perfect Tubes

TROLLING APPROACHES

When fish are related to shoreline structure, this trolling technique is designed to cover the transition zone from deepwater haunts to the shallow feeding grounds

3 BEST BETS

Perfect Tube: The large profile of the Perfect Tube is easily seen from a distance

Very high return on energy. Imitates large sea worm or eel Fish on lead-core or with trolling weight in depoths of 30' or more.

In-Line Trolling Weight: Our top rigging recommendation for inshore trolling without lead core or wire line

Slider: Trolling a slider is an unconventional but effective option Sliders sink Soft f you take the boat out of gear to “drop” on fish the lure will drop right into the zone Highly underrated technique.

Schools of baitfish get swept by the tide over the sand bar or reef, making them vulnerable to stripers that are lying right on or behind the tip line, waiting in ambush to pick off unsuspecting prey

3 BEST BETS

Weighted Hogy Original: Effective imitator of squid and baitfish Jig ‘N Troll while swinging into the rip. A swim-bait hook rigged soft bait significantly reduces weeds.

Swimming Plug: Best option when fish are holding in deeper water.

SHORELINE TROLLING (*TROLL SCAN) APPROACH

Find the depth stripers are hanging in relative to the shoreline Fish will be shallower in low light conditions, out deeper mid-day and high sun situations Use fish finder to dial in bait schools and mark fish

Work the lower third of the water column Stripers will often reside close to the bottom, but can also suspend towards the mid water column Use fish finder to dial in best depth *Take boat out of gear, if needed to drop on a target.

Keep a keen eye out for bottom structure changes Reefs, boulders, mussel beds and other hard structure will hold fish at a higher frequency Mark these structures and adjust trolling direction to approach structure from all sides

Approach the rip head on.

About 200 feet in front of the rip, begin a turn to start positioning the boat so that it is parallel to the rip

Keep heading this direction until the lines are almost parallel to the rip or maybe 20 feet in front of the rip

Turn up tide, and away for the rip. This will allow your lures to swing over the rip in a horizontal presentation before changing direction to follow the boat up tide This is where the strike will usually occur

Once the lures pull out of the rip, repeat the process

NOTE: You can walk back and forth over a tight area.

TROLLING APPROACHES

CHANNEL TROLLING

Channels are tricky spots to troll. Not only do you often have super strong currents to deal with but you have boat traffic to contend to Even though you are fishing, the boats traveling through the channel have the total right of way. The burden is on you to move out of the way, even if you are hooked up to a very large fish

3 BEST BETS

CHARTERGRADESWIMMINGPLUG

Tubes: Troll tubes down current simulating a giant sea worm that has lost its way in the current

Swimming Plug: Use in deeper water, a swimming plug will get down 30'+

Weighted Softbaits: Another unusual trolling option The great thing about trolling paddle -tail softbaits is that you can put the lure in “feespool” when “dropping on fish” out of gear Sort of a hybrid between trolling and jigging

Trolling open water areas can be very productive when good signs of fish activity are present This can be the obvious such as surface feeds, bird activity, or large bait schools When fish are deep, bait pods can be located using electronics and fished at specific depths

3 BEST BETS

OPEN WATER TROLLING

CHARTERGRADESLIDER

Slider: Unusual but highly effective option. Sliders are weighted for built-in swimming action and will sink when stopped This allows for a shallow water presentation on toll but deep presentation when “stop & drop” mode

Swimming Plug: Get deep and troll at multiple speeds

The more line you let out and the faster you troll will drive how deep you are fishing CHARTERGRADESWIMMINGPLUG

Weighted Softbaits: Imitative baitfish profile can be trolled at a variety of speeds. Heavy thumping tail calls fish in from a distance

WATCH VIDEO

CHANNEL TROLLING APPROACH

Troll with the Tide: Always. It will allow you the most control and the ability to drop on bottom dwellers It also looks the most natural in strong current since most baitfish have no option but to ride the tide Your lures, therefore, will look the most natural

Make A Lot of Short Passes: Your best bet is to reel in and run up tide and repeat.

3

Change Lure Colors Often: Since you will be going over the same spot again and again, be sure to change colors For whatever reason, I have noticed that stripers will often shut down on a color and fire back up on a new color I’ve had days where I needed to do this very three passes or so

WATCH VIDEO

Pound the signs & stay glued to the fish finder Tracking a surface feed or following suspended bait is imperative

When fish are located, drop the boat out of gear for a moment to allow baits to drop, then accelerate back into gear to trigger a reaction strike

Make frequent turns, doing so will move your baits up and down in the water column, assisting in locating active fish

4

Change colors often Finding the hot color, whether natural or attractor colors, can turn a cold bite into a hot one once dialed in

WEIGHTED HOGY

“Jig’NTroll”

Ultra-realistic,erratic swimmingaction

Highlyinteractive,can befishedwithseveral retrievestyles

Topchoiceforsquid imitationonfinickyfish Lightweight,ultra-dart and,wriggle

Effectiveimitatorof squidandbaitfish

Erraticswimmingaction isidealforfinickyfish.

Topcolors:Amber, Pink,Bone

TROLLING ESSENTIALS

HOGY PERFECT TUBE

Pre-tunedperfect swimmingaction No bendingneeded!

Heavy-dutyconstruction, ballbearing,premiumVMC

Rigging

Designedfortacticalslow trollingonleadcore,wire orweighted

Canbetrollednakedor tippedwithseaworms. Playwithtrollingspeeds Often,intermittentsurges willdrawreactionstrikes. Thelargeprofileofthe PerfectTubeiseasilyseen fromadistance Veryhigh returnonenergy.Imitates largeseawormoreel

Ultra-HD220lb construction

Multipleweightsfor trollingdepthsto40 feet

Simplifiedinshore trollingonlighttackle conventionalsetups usingbraidormono line

Designedforadding additionalweightfor lighttackletrolling, thesecanbepairedwith theHogyPerfectTube, CharterGradeSliders, andavarietyofpreriggedsoftbaitsfor precisedepthtrolling

Imitativebaitfishprofile

Heavythumpingaction callsfishfromadistance

Excellentchoicefor quicklycoveringground usingtrollscantech

Multiplebaitfish

imitatingcolorpatterns available

Canbetrolledatavariety ofspeeds

Comesinavarietyof sizes,weightsandcolors andtheyareeasily swappedouttoadjustfor thedepth,speedof current,andevenhow largetheareaiswhenyou aretolling

Hogydeepdiveswimming plugsaresimpleintheir designandcolorpatterns

Builttothesamespecsas ourtunaplugstheHogy ChartergradeSwimming plugwillgetthejobdoneon anygamefishyouarewilling totackleonstand-upgear

Testedatspeedsupto12kts

Thequestionyoulikelywant toknowishowdeep?We’ve testedthislureabunchbut havenoticedcurrent,boat speedandlineamountareall factorsatplay Thatsaid,we cansafelysaythislurewill swim20+feet

Theactionis“built-in ”The HogySliderfeaturesawider, moreerraticswimming movementasopposedtothe frantic,vibratingactionofa lippedbillplug

Excellentfor"jigandtroll" presentations

Thislurehasneutral buoyancy,meaningithasa horizontaldescentwhen sinking.Thisisaverynatural presentation,soaseriesof pausesarerecommendedon theretrieve.

Excellentherringandbunker match

TROLLING PATTERNS

TacticalTrolling:Thefocusontacticaltrollingistoput yourluresdirectlyinfrontoffishyouspecificallyknoware thereinsituationssuchasstriperyouaremarkingholding onstructure,staginginarip Inthissituation,alureshould becontrollableintermsofdepth,speedandaction CanvasTrolling:Canvastrollingoccurswhenyouareinan areaofscatteredfishbutinadefinedarea.Yourfocushere istocoverenoughgroundwhereyourlurespassoverfish Inthissituation,yourrigsshouldhaveabigpresenceand behighlyvisible,withtheideabeingthatthebiggerthe target,theeasierthefishwillfindyourlure

TROLLING METHODS

SetItAndForgetIt:Asthenameimplies,thisstripertrollinglurecanhaveitsroddroppedintheholderwhile trolling.Noextraactionnecessary.

Interactive:Astriper-trollinglurethatisinteractiveisone wheretheanglerimpartssomesortofactiontoenhancethe lure’seffectivenesssuchasjigging,dropping(freespool, turnsoroutofgear)orsurgingtoimpacttheluresdepth, speedandmovementthroughthewater

DURABILITY

Trollingluresmustbeoverbuilttowithstandhoursinthe water,impactofheavyhitsagainstthedragandaboat movingintheoppositedirection.

CHARTER GRADE SWIMMING PLUG CHARTRE GRADE

STRIPERS FEEDING IN SHALLOW RIP SCATTERED BAIT AND FISH

THE BITE

Squid Hungry Stripers in a shallow Rip.

THE CHALLANGE

Shallow rips are diffcult to troll without dragging bottom

Furthermore, early season rips are often loaded with weed Getting lures on the troll can be challenging for stripers

THE SOLUTION

Fish lightly weighted softbaits on braid, rigged “weedless”of swimbait hooks with the hook point buried in the back of the lure

By Jigging the lure while trolling, you will be adding action while alos shaking off weeds that might collect on the lure.

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

Stripers keyed in on baitfish loosely scattered over larger areas.

When Stripers are spread out over large areas, you’ll need to cover some ground

THE SOLUTION

Trolling a high speed deep diving swimming plug is a good option to cover some ground The Hogy Swimming plug can be trolled up to 12.5 kts.

The Hogy Swimming Plug floats. If you mark fish in shallow levels of the water column, you can take the boat out of gear to let the lures float up

BOTTOM HUGGING STRIPERS KEYED IN ON LARGE BAITS

THE BITE THE CHALLANGE

THE BITE

Summer doldrum bottom hugging stripers feeding on eels or sea worms in heavy structure

This environment can be conducive to snags Fish are scattered and often reluctant to eat

THE SOLUTION

Trolling the tube and worm above snaggy bottom is really your best option For starters, the “aft” single hook design minimizes bottom snags. Secondly, the large high profile 24inch “billboard of a lure” really stands out giving it a high “return on energy” factor making it worth a big striper to come and eat it For added attraction, tip the Hogy Perfect Tube with a sea worm

Stripers keyed in on large bunker, scup or herring.

THE CHALLANGE

Open water stripers, moving quickly following schools of large baitfish

THE SOLUTION Hogy

The Hogy Charter Grade Swimming Plug is our top choice for quickly covering open water areas when fish are keyed in on large profiled forage

Consistent side to side swimming motion at medium speeds, paired with pauses allows for a variety of retrieve styles. With diving depths up to 30', this bait can target fish holding in deeper water

Imitative baitfish colors for matching the hatch on a variety of forage

Inshore Casting Outfits for Boat

Fishing: Albies and Stripers

Medium Light Tackle Inshore Outfit for Albies and Spring Schoolies

When aiming for albies (false albacore) and spring schoolies (young striped bass) from a boat, a balanced casting outfit is essential for precision, versatility, and enjoyment. This guide refines the specifications for such an outfit, emphasizing rod power and action, reel size, line and leader recommendations, and suitable lure sizes.

Outfit Specifications:

Power: Medium (M) - This level is ideal for the nuanced approach needed for albies and the variable sizes of spring schoolies It offers enough backbone for control yet is light enough for finesse and enjoyment

Action: Moderate-Fast - A balance between sensitivity at the tip for detecting subtle bites and enough flex through the mid-section for casting distance and absorbing runs Perfect for both surface and subsurface lures.

Reel Size: 3000 to 4000 class - Such reels strike a balance between being lightweight for all-day casting comfort and having adequate line capacity and drag for the fast, powerful runs characteristic of albies

Line lb Test: 15-20lb Braid - Offers a great combination of casting distance, sensitivity for bite detection, and strength for handling the speed and agility of albies and the fight of schoolies

Leader lb Test: 10-20lb Fluorocarbon - The lower end for clear water and wary albies, with the higher strength for areas with more structure where schoolies might be targeted

The Work Horse Rod

Lure Size Adaptability:

For Albies: Excelling with small to medium-sized lures, this setup is great for casting a range of 1/2oz to 1oz lures. Ideal for matching the small baitfish albies feed on, including metal jigs, epoxy jigs, and soft plastics

For Spring Schoolies: Versatile for throwing similar lure sizes, this setup allows for effective use of soft plastics, small swimbaits, and topwater lures, mimicking the forage schoolies are after.

Line lb Test: 30-40lb Braid - This choice in line strength guarantees both durability and sensitivity, facilitating lengthy, precise casts and maintaining an instant connection for quick bite detection

Leader lb Test: 15-30lb Fluorocarbon - Tailoring the leader strength to the specific target species and prevailing conditions, with lighter leaders for the often cautious albies and heavier options for stripers found around complex structures.

When fishing from a boat, targeting species like albies (false albacore) and stripers (striped bass), selecting the right casting outfit is crucial The "Work Horse" rod, measuring approximately 7 feet, embodies the ideal balance for casting precision and adaptability This revised guide further refines the specifics of this rod, focusing on rod power, action, reel size, line, and leader specifications, coupled with the optimal lure sizes for targeted applications.

The Work Horse Rod Specifications:

Power: Medium-Heavy (MH) - This power spectrum is perfectly suited for the varied challenges presented by both albies and stripers, delivering a robust backbone for battling these fish while retaining sufficient finesse for delicate presentations

Action: Moderate-Fast - Balances "fast" tip sensitivity and accuracy with the versatility needed for other techniques, such as casual jigging and ground fishing, ensuring just the right amount of bend throughout the rod's length for a variety of applications.

Reel Size: 5000 class - A reel in this category complements the rod well, offering generous line capacity and dependable drag, essentials for the rapid runs characteristic of these fish species.

For Stripers: Capable of handling lures up to 2oz, this rod is optimal for medium-sized plugs, swimbaits, and jigs It provides the necessary power and action for effective presentations and secure hook sets under a variety of fishing conditions Given its moderate-fast action, the rod can also adeptly manage vertical jigging for stripers with small jigs up to 3oz

For Albies: Excelling with larger albie jigs ranging from 7/8oz to 2oz, the rod stands out in casting jigs under windy conditions, demonstrating its prowess with heavier lures designed for these swift predators

OUTFITS

Hogy Hybrid 7' Spinning Rod for HeavyDuty Inshore and Light Tackle Offshore

Length: 7' – The perfect balance for casting distance and accuracy, while still manageable for precise lure control and handling during fights with larger inshore species or light tackle offshore targets.

Action: Moderate-Fast – This action ensures a quick response time for setting hooks and provides the sensitivity needed to detect subtle bites, combined with the backbone to handle aggressive strikes and maintain control during the fight.

Power: Medium-Heavy to Heavy – Capable of supporting 40 to 80lb braid, this power range is ideal for battling larger inshore species and is robust enough for light tackle offshore fishing It provides the angler with the strength to land substantial fish while maintaining enough flexibility for a variety of fishing techniques

Lure Weight: Up to 4oz – The rod is designed to effectively handle plugs and other lures up to 4oz, making it versatile for targeting a wide range of species with different presentations, from surface popping to deep water jigging

Line Recommendation: 40 to 80lb Braid – With this line rating, the rod is set up to tackle larger fish, offering exceptional power and durability while ensuring sensitivity for detecting bites and precision in lure placement

Check out this video we filmed during the 2023 Salty Cape Filming season We were fishing at Block Island catching giant striped bass on the Hogy Hybrid Spinning Rod

Key Features to Look For:

Applications: This Hogy Hybrid rod is engineered for versatility, excelling in both heavy-duty inshore environments where robust tackle is needed and in light tackle offshore settings where sensitivity and strength are paramount. Whether targeting large bass, casting for tuna, or jigging for bottom dwellers, this rod provides the necessary performance for a successful outing

Reel Size Recommendations:

For the Hogy Hybrid 7' spinning rod, designed for heavy-duty inshore and light tackle offshore fishing with a line recommendation of 40 to 80lb braid and lure weights up to 4oz, the appropriate reel size would range from 5000 to 10000. This range accommodates the diverse applications the rod is intended for, ensuring a balanced setup that maximizes both performance and comfort

5000 to 10000 Class Reels: A 5000 class reel is more suited for the lower end of the rod's capability, perfect for inshore applications where lighter line and smaller lures are used. As you move towards offshore fishing or targeting larger species, stepping up to a 7000 or even 10000 class reel provides the additional line capacity and drag strength needed for bigger fish and heavier tackle.

High-Quality Drag System: Essential for handling the sudden runs and fighting capabilities of larger inshore and offshore species.

Sufficient Line Capacity: To accommodate the 40 to 80lb braid, ensuring you have enough line for deep water applications and long runs

Durability and Corrosion Resistance:

Look for reels constructed with materials that can withstand the harsh saltwater environment.

Comfortable Handling: Despite the larger size, the reel should balance well on the Hogy Hybrid rod, ensuring comfort during long fishing sessions

Matching Reel to Fishing Style:

For inshore fishing, where agility and the ability to make frequent casts are key, lean towards the lower end of the recommended reel sizes (5000-6000)

For light tackle offshore, where you might encounter larger fish and need more line capacity, opt for the higher end (8000-10000)

Classic Striper Inshore Jigging Rod Setup

When targeting striped bass, especially through jigging techniques, choosing the right equipment is critical for success This setup is designed for anglers who prioritize precision, power, and the ability to handle the dynamic nature of striper fishing

Setup Specifications:

Power: Medium-Heavy (MH) - Optimal for the robust fight typically expected from stripers It provides a strong backbone for jigging heavier lures while maintaining enough sensitivity for detecting bites.

Action: Moderate - A moderate action is crucial for jigging, as it offers a balanced blend of sensitivity for bite detection and flexibility for a

manageable on a boat

Reel Size: 5000 to 6000 class - A reel within this range balances well with a medium-heavy rod, offering ample line capacity and strong drag systems necessary for the quick, powerful runs stripers are known for.

Line lb Test: 30-40lb Braid - Braid line is preferred for its sensitivity and lack of stretch, providing instant feedback for jigging and ensuring solid hooksets at depth

Leader lb Test: 20-40lb Fluorocarbon - The variability in leader strength allows anglers to adjust based on the clarity of the water and the size of the stripers being targeted Heavier leaders are beneficial around structure where stripers may try to break off Jigging Lures: Capable of handling jig sizes from 2oz to 6oz, this setup is versatile for various jigging scenarios

Key Features: The Hogy Hybrid rod is highlighted for its ultra flex parabolic action, easy-to-store length, premium-grade cork grip, graphite reel seat, and Fuji guides These features collectively enhance its utility and durability, making it a robust option for anglers seeking a single rod that can perform multiple roles effectively

This Hogy Hybrid conventional rod is a standout choice for anglers looking for a single rod capable of adapting to both jigging and trolling demands, offering a blend of performance, control, and durability suited to the challenges of inshore and offshore fishing

9' Surf Rod Setup for Versatile Surf Fishing

Length: 9' – 10’ - Ideal for achieving long casting distances required in surf fishing to reach beyond breaking waves and into the feeding zones of target species like striped bass, bluefish, and others.

Power: Medium-Heavy - Offers the strength needed to cast larger lures and baits, handle the surf's rough conditions, and fight larger fish, while still maintaining enough sensitivity for detecting bites

Action: Moderate - Provides a balanced flex throughout the rod, facilitating long casts with a variety of lure sizes (1.5oz to 4oz) and types The moderate action also aids in absorbing the shock of aggressive strikes, reducing the risk of pulling hooks or breaking lines

Butt Section: Long, designed to facilitate comfortable under-arm use, which is especially useful during long fishing sessions The long butt enhances the angler's ability to leverage the rod's full length and power during the hook set and fight, offering better control and reducing fatigue.

Reels: For inshore ground fishing targeting species like fluke and sea bass, the choice between spinning and conventional reels ultimately comes down to angler preference, as both types are effective in shallow water conditions where the drag and gear ratio are less critical

STEP 1: REPORTS ANALYSIS

5-STEP Guide to Capt. Mike’s System Driven Inshore Fishing

I have been chasing saltwater fish since I can remember, that’s over 40 years! I remember when striped bass were rare, and bluefish was the primary in season target on Cape Cod for several years in the late 1980s I watched stripers come back and bluefish get smaller. I witnessed a time where bonito were THE funny fish to now, where albies are all the craze. Gear has changed just as much as the fishing, if not more! -BUT- The one thing that hasn’t changed over the years is how to find fish To that end, I offer a simple as possible systematic approach to inshore fishing

What is Inshore System Thinking?

Simply put, all fish wander If you think about it, here on Cape Cod and many salty places like it, the season really consists of a dozen or more micro seasons A lot can change in just a week or two of bad weather or a busy life getting in your way Furthermore, the weather changes almost hourly around these parts. Sure, you might have some good intel to help you on your way, but my past experience shows me that intel is about 50% of the battle

More times than not, you’ll need to know how to read the situation at hand to adapt to the state of the moment to fish at a peak level There are so many moving parts to assess Putting together a logical and adaptable strategy before heading out puts you in a far better position to catch. Here’s how I have learned to break down the situation over the years and make calculated decisions based on experience, rules of thumb and common sense

STEP 1: Reports/Historical Analysis

Everyone loves reports. In theory they deeply cut the curve. In theory... I would say tuna reports go as planned less than 50% of the time without any re-work Here’s why:

What’s Your Report Status?

No Reports: Congratulations! You’re Fishing Blind: Hahaha, in this case, you ARE the report When and where they’ll be will be (or won’t be!) will be proven by your best guess Someone must be first! If you don’t head out and look, the most you’ll know is that there isn’t any target species swimming around at home or in your office Your focus on this trip is to leverage historical analysis.

Ask yourself these questions

What’s typical for this time of year? The Average of past years' early hot spots is not a bad bet Access your log or local sites like saltycape com to view archived reports

Is this year different in any way? Colder? Hotter? ? If so, if same pattern continues to happen with other cycles, what would that look like?

What are the environmental factors like wind and tide in the forecast? How might they impact your historical information?

What’s typical for forage this time of year? You can’t always identify what’s around by sight. “Typical forage” is always the best place to start to have your rods rigged and ready with.

Yes Reports: Great, you have recent reports! Your focus on this trip is to replicate as much as possible and work from there to adapt to the new days’ conditions. Many times, the playbook remains unchanged, but many times, a new day in the same spot calls for a few small adjustments to fully capitalize. If the fishing is not happening, look at what has changed

Ensuring you have these details will help you immensely with your environmental analysis in planning and your situational analysis when on scene:

Ask yourself these questions.

Time to bite?

Time of slack tide?

Was the bite best at slack tide?

What bait were they feeding on?

What is the wind direction and speed that day?

Extrapolate

CCompare conditions during your last report and today’s weather and extrapolate time of slack tides and extrapolate where wind and current might push fish If it’s a recent report, tide differences will vary only by a couple of hours Develop your plan

Obviously start where the last know information left off with minor triangulation for environmental factors such as tide and wind

If no fish or inadequate tells, head the direction the wind and tide differences might have pushed the fish

If still poor fishing, time to run the spots It’s handy to have a float plan ready to go so you can gauge how long it will take you to hit the other “known areas” within rang. Sometimes a hot spot just needs a couple of hours to develop. A loop with a return could hedge that bet.

A few Notes on reports….

Early Season Reports: Keep in mind early fish are movers! All early arrivers regardless of species blow right through spots until they settle in A report just tells you where they were yesterday Even with a report, the ability to find your own fish is needed at least 50-percent of the time, at least to some degree The fish may have moved only a couple miles but if you are too hung up on “the spot” you’ll miss valuable time sniffing around to find your own fish. I can’t tell you how many times I have scrambled based on a good report only to discover that the fish had moved

STEP 2: Environmental Analysis

Congratulations! You have a clear schedule and are fired up for your next day on the water You’re goal now is to assess environmental factors such as weather, tides, moon phase etc. And plan accordingly to establish where and when you are going Also use this information to create a backup plan as you extrapolate your information at hand with environmental changes

Tides

High Tide: Offers striped bass access to feeding grounds in shallow flats, marshes, and creeks Focus on the water moving over submerged structures and along the edges of flooded areas where bass might ambush prey.

Low Tide: Reveals structures and deeper channels where striped bass concentrate. Target these areas with jigs or deeper diving lures, paying attention to any remaining cover where bass can hide

Peak Season Reports: A report might take you to where there is unpleasant boat traffic or mediocre fishing It’s a fact boats put fish down There may have been a good bite at 8 a m but by 9 a m , it’s over. Have you ever pounded a spot with the fleet all day only to end up getting skunked? By running your own playbook, you might find a bigger and better situation I never regret picking up and moving out of a crowded fishing situation with less than par fishing. After all, it’s the thrill of the hunt that keeps us coming back The fact is the most efficient way to get fish is at the fish market .

Sunlight Conditions

Full Sun: Bright sunlight can push striped bass to seek refuge in deeper waters or shaded areas near structures Anglers should adapt by targeting these retreats, using lures that perform well at greater depths or in less visible conditions

Albies on the other hand don’t mind bright light conditions but their behavior might change just a little bit Albies will be more leader shy on bright days. Often, brighter lures work best on bright days as they have a greater contrast to the bright sun casting over

Overcast: Cloudy skies often lead to more active feeding closer to the surface as bass become less wary without the sharp shadows and bright light This condition is ideal for using topwater lures and shallow-running plugs to entice strikes

Rainy: Rain can stimulate striped bass feeding by washing insects and smaller prey into the water The disturbed surface also provides cover, making bass more likely to venture into shallow areas During rainy conditions, focus on inlets, estuary mouths, and areas where runoff accumulates

STEP 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Tide Stages Surf Fishing - High Tide

Slack Tide: Often the least productive but can be good for targeting deeper holes where bass may hold between feeding periods.

Flood Tide: As water moves in, look for bass pushing into newly accessible areas. Use swimbaits or soft plastics that mimic the forage moving with the tide.

Ebb Tide: Focus on outgoing water that funnels baitfish through narrower channels and past points, using lures that can be worked with the current or retrieved against it to mimic natural prey movements

Surf Fishing - Low Tide

Open Beaches: Look for troughs and cuts in the sandbar that remain water-filled; these areas can channel baitfish and provide pathways for bass Casting into these deeper areas during low tide can be fruitful.

Rock Piles: Rocks and boulders are exposed, creating pockets and channels where bass can be found These areas hold bass waiting for the tide to bring baitfish back within reach.

Canals and Estuaries: Focus on the deeper sections and channels where bass may retreat as water levels drop The edges of currents are particularly good spots, as baitfish struggle against the flow.

Jetties: The receding tide exposes baitfish hiding among the rocks, drawing bass to feed Targeting the water still covering submerged structures can be effective.

Boating - Low Tide

Targeting Deeper Channels: Bass retreat to deeper channels and holes that offer safety and a vantage point for ambushing prey Vertical jigging or using diving lures to reach these bass can be highly effective.

Fishing Around Exposed Structures: Low tide concentrates fish around submerged structures that remain underwater These can still provide excellent opportunities for bass waiting to ambush prey.

Careful Navigation: Low tide demands cautious navigation, especially in shallow areas prone to grounding Be mindful of submerged hazards now closer to the surface.

Open Beaches: High tide pushes striped bass closer to shore, making them accessible to surf anglers Casting into the breaking waves and "whitewater" where bass hunt disoriented prey can be particularly effective

Rock Piles: The water covers submerged rocks and boulders, creating prime ambush spots for bass Targeting these areas with swimbaits or soft plastics can mimic the natural prey bass are hunting

Canals and Estuaries: These areas fill with water, allowing bass to explore deeper into estuaries and canals. Anglers should focus on mouths and points where currents bring in baitfish, using lures that match the prevalent forage

Jetties: High tide provides bass access to feed on barnacles, small crabs, and baitfish around jetty structures. Casting along the sides or into adjacent deeper waters can yield strikes from feeding bass

Boating - High Tide

Exploring Shallow Areas: High tide grants boaters access to shallower flats, back bays, and marshes that are usually inaccessible, which are teeming with baitfish and offer excellent feeding grounds for striped bass

Fishing Near Structures: Submerged docks, pilings, and other structures become hotspots for bass Anglers can effectively target these areas with topwater lures or soft plastics, focusing on shadows and underwater cover.

Estuaries and Creek Mouths: The rising waters bring baitfish and bass into estuaries and creeks Positioning at creek mouths or along estuary edges can intercept bass moving in with the tide

Navigating Jetties and Points: Safer navigation around these areas is possible at high tide, allowing anglers to cast into productive waters without the risk of grounding

Focusing on Outer Edges of Flats and Sandbars: The edges of flats and sandbars become prime areas for bass, especially if these edges drop off sharply into deeper water.

STEP 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Tidal Transitions

Surf Fishing Strategy: Incoming and outgoing tides create dynamic conditions that can be highly productive. Focus on areas where the changing tides create currents, such as points, inlets, and channels between sandbars, to target feeding striped bass

Boating Strategy: Adjust your position to take advantage of the water movement, casting into rip currents, or drifting live baits through converging waters where bass are likely feeding.

By understanding and adapting to the tidal influences on striped bass behavior, both surf anglers and boaters can enhance their fishing strategies Whether exploiting the high tide's access to shallow feeding grounds or the low tide's concentration of fish in deeper areas, aligning your approach with the tidal phases can significantly increase your chances of success.

Outflow and Inflow Dynamics

Outflow Areas: Places where water dumps out from estuaries, rivers, or storm drains into larger bodies of water often accumulate baitfish, making them attractive feeding grounds for striped bass Anglers should target these areas, casting into or just outside the outflow.

Inflow in Estuaries: Inside estuaries, behind ambush points like points, jetties, or submerged structures, striped bass wait for incoming tides to bring baitfish and other prey items Positioning baits or lures in these inflow areas can result in productive catches.

Trolling with Currents: Trolling lures or baited lines with the current simulates the movement of baitfish being swept along This method can be especially effective in larger water bodies where striped bass follow tidal currents to feed. Aligning trolling paths parallel to current lines or through areas of converging currents can entice strikes from bass targeting these moving baitfish

Slack Tide Tactics: During slack tide, when water movement is minimal, using big plugs or live baits can target larger striped bass that are scavenging for easy meals. These lulls in current often cause baitfish to become less active and more vulnerable, presenting an opportunity to catch bass with a preference for larger prey. Focusing on areas where previous activity was noted during moving tides can yield success as bass adjust to the change in water movement.

Moon Phases - Full Moon

Tidal Dynamics

By understanding and adapting to the tidal influences on striped bass behavior, both surf anglers and boaters can enhance their fishing strategies Whether exploiting the high tide's access to shallow feeding grounds or the low tide's concentration of fish in deeper areas, aligning your approach with the tidal phases can significantly increase your chances of success.

Current Dynamics: Understanding and leveraging the dynamics of currents can significantly elevate the effectiveness of striped bass fishing tactics Here’s how different current conditions can be utilized to target striped bass more effectively

Fishing a Rip: Positioning the boat or surf placement to cast lures or baits into or just before a rip, where converging currents create turbulent waters, can be highly productive. The disoriented baitfish in these areas are prime targets for striped bass Casting up-current and letting your lure drift through the rip, mimicking the natural movement of bait, can trigger strikes

Canal Dynamics: In canals, casting towards the up-current side and working your lure back with the flow imitates a naturally drifting prey item. This technique can be particularly effective in man-made structures like canals, where striped bass hunt along current seams and eddies.

Night Feeding: The Full Moon phase illuminates the night sky, making it easier for striped bass to see and hunt prey This increased visibility can lead to more active feeding during the night. Anglers targeting stripers might find success fishing with topwater lures or live bait under the moonlight, as stripers may be more willing to venture into shallower waters to feed

Stronger Tides: The gravitational pull during a Full Moon creates stronger and higher tides, causing more significant water movement This movement can dislodge and mobilize baitfish, making them more vulnerable to predation Striped bass may take advantage of these conditions, positioning themselves in areas with strong currents or near estuary mouths to ambush prey

Fishing Strategy: Plan trips to coincide with evening or early morning tides when the impact of the Full Moon is most pronounced Focus on areas known for strong tidal flows, such as channel edges, points, and shoals where baitfish might be concentrated.

STEP 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Moon Phases - New Moon

Reduced Visibility: The lack of moonlight during the New Moon phase creates darker nights, which can change the feeding behavior of striped bass They may rely more on their lateral line system to detect vibrations and movements of prey in the water

Ambush Predation: The darker conditions favor ambush predation, as stripers can use the cover of darkness to approach baitfish undetected. Anglers might find success using lures that produce vibration or sound to attract stripers’ attention in the absence of visual cues

Fishing Strategy: Targeting areas with structure such as submerged rocks, reefs, or dock pilings can be effective during the New Moon. These structures can provide stripers with strategic ambush points Using scented baits or those that create noise and vibration can also improve your chances of enticing a strike in the darker conditions

Water Temperature

Striped bass are highly influenced by water temperature, which significantly impacts their feeding habits, migration patterns, and habitat preferences They are most active and likely to feed when water temperatures are between 57°F and 68°F, making this range optimal for anglers.

Transitional Seasons (Spring and Fall): These are prime times for striped bass fishing as water temperatures often fall within the optimal range Stripers are more likely to venture into shallower waters to feed, following temperature cues for spawning or preparing to migrate

Summer: As temperatures rise, striped bass seek cooler, deeper waters during the day and may feed more actively during cooler early morning or late evening hours Night fishing becomes productive as stripers move closer to shore and into shallower water to feed

Winter: In colder months, striped bass move to deeper areas seeking stable temperatures, with their metabolism slowing and feeding frequency decreasing

Bait Forage Preferences and W

Spring and Fa shad in estua

Summer: Tar small lobster

Winter: Less herring and s

Ideal Moons for Striped Bass Fishing

Transition Phases: The days leading up to and immediately following both the Full and New Moon can be particularly productive for striped bass fishing. During these periods, the gradually changing light levels and tidal strengths can create predictable patterns of baitfish movement that savvy anglers can exploit

Tidal Coefficients: Paying attention to tidal coefficients (a measure of the tidal force) during these lunar phases can help anglers determine the best days to fish. Higher coefficients indicate stronger tides, which might stimulate more feeding activity.

Feeding in Deeper Water

Cooler Depths in Summer and Stable Later and Very Early Season Havens: In summer, stripers seek deeper waters for cooler conditions and follow schools of baitfish In winter, deeper waters offer more stable conditions, but feeding slows down

Techniques for Deeper Water: Jigging and trolling can be effective for reaching stripers in deeper waters. Using sonar to locate baitfish schools is key to finding stripers Matching bait or lures to the deep-water forage improves chances of attracting stripers.

Behavioral Adaptations: Increased nocturnal activity is observed even in deeper waters, with schooling behavior often leading stripers to patrol deeper water channels in search of baitfish

STEP 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Wind

Wind is a powerful factor in marine environments, directly influencing striped bass behavior, the distribution baitfish, and the effectiveness of fishin strategies

East and Northeast Win

Challenges: These winds often signal approaching fronts, leading to choppy w decreased water clarity, and cooler temperatures The abrupt changes can d the predictable patterns of both baitfish striped bass, making fishing conditions difficult.

Baitfish Dispersion: The stirring of wat scatter baitfish, requiring anglers to adapt by seeking sheltered coves or estuaries where bait and stripers may gather for protection.

South and Southwest Winds

Warmer Conditions: Bring warmer air, which can increase surface water temperatures, particularly in shallow bays and estuaries, activating striped bass metabolism and encouraging more aggressive feeding near the surface.

Enhanced Feeding Activity: These conditions favor the use of surface lures and flies, with stripers more likely to chase baitfish pushed to the surface by wind-driven currents.

West and Northwest Winds

Stabilizing Effect: Typically indicates the passage of a system, bringing clearer skies and calmer waters The post-frontal stability can make striped bass more predictable, favoring anglers with knowledge of local hotspots.

Improved Water Clarity: Helps in visually locating feeding stripers and casting to them with precision Anglers can exploit the clearer conditions with sight targeted techniques

Shoreline Structures with Wind ConsiderationsOnshore Winds

Increased Shore Activity: Pushes bait against the shore and structures, making locations like points, jetties, and rocky outcrops prime spots for shore anglers. Casting into the wind may require heavier gear but can yield significant rewards as stripers feed aggressively in such conditions.

Boat Positioning Challenges: Keeping a boat stable and at a productive casting distance from structure can be challenging. Anglers might need to compensate for drift and use more robust anchoring techniques.

Offshore Winds

Casting Difficulties from Shore: Can make it hard to achieve distance and accuracy Anglers might need to focus on calmer, protected spots or adjust their gear to counteract the wind's force

Advantageous for Boating Anglers: Allows for closer, more controlled approaches to structures from the water. Fishing the leeward sides of islands or land masses can provide sheltered spots teeming with stripers

Disruptive Nature of Wind Direction Changes

Sudden Shifts: Rapid changes in wind direction can temporarily disorient baitfish schools and the predators that follow them, including striped bass This disruption can create a brief period of heightened feeding as stripers take advantage of the confused prey

Adapting Strategies: Anglers need to be observant and quick to respond to these shifts Keeping an eye on weather patterns and being ready to move or change tactics is key For example, a sudden shift to an east wind might necessitate seeking protected bays or adjusting lure selection to match the more turbulent conditions.

STEP 3: Plan and Execute

After conducting an environmental analysis, the next critical step is Decision Making This phase involves integrating your historical data, whether from previous seasons' migrations or recent reports, with current environmental conditions Here's how to approach it:

Dive deep into understanding the intricate details of environmental factors relative to whatever historical intel you have, whether it’s reports, experience, or common knowledge. Apply your historical knowledge, such as past migratory patterns and behaviors and recent intel if you have it to your current environmental analysis assessing factors like current weather conditions, wind direction, and tidal movements

Gear Extrapolate Historical Data

Creating an Educated 'Plan B'

Adjust Your Plan

Based on this combined analysis, modify your initial plan to accommodate changes in environmental factors such as wind direction shifts or tidal times For example, wind shifts might push the bite downwind a few miles…. Analyze the tide times and adjust your fishing schedule accordingly A safe rule of thumb is adding 40 minutes per day to accommodate for replicating the salient tide stage on a later date.

Utilize all available information to formulate a backup plan. This plan should account for potential scenarios where your primary plan might not be viable due to sudden environmental changes or even situational changes like prohibitively heavy boat traffic that is spooking fish

Given the constant changes in conditions, I'm fixated on a simple gear system that aligns with my straightforward approach to finding fish That means a tight selection of the same jigs, plugs, soft baits, and trolling lures that I know like the back of my hand A simple gear system allows me to focus primarily on environmental and situational factors, with my gear list remaining consistent on every trip The only change from trip to trip is what lures I have pre-tied on my rods based on what I 'expect' to encounter, but I am ready to adapt with an audible at a moment's notice I treat my Mesh Crate loaded with lures like a set of golf clubs; the same set goes with me each time, but I use each of my small selection of lures differently and regularly, according to each unique but categorizable situation I find myself in.

4: OBSERVATIONAL FACTORS

STEP 4: Observational Factors - Refine Your Playbook

OK! You made it. Regardless of your path to this spot, it’s now time to “look out the window” and see what you’re dealing with. A detailed reading of the situation will result in peak success

Striper and Bluefish Feeding Behavior

Random Crashes

What it indicates: A random crash on the surface usually signifies solitary stripers aggressively targeting individual baitfish or small groups This behavior often occurs when baitfish are plentiful but dispersed

Fishing strategy: Use fast-moving lures like plugs or soft plastic swimbaits. Mimic the erratic, fleeing action of baitfish to attract these opportunistic feeders

Multiple Crashes at Once

What it indicates: When multiple stripers are crashing the surface simultaneously, it's a sign of coordinated feeding, where stripers work together to corral baitfish This behavior often results in bait balls being pushed to the surface

Fishing strategy: Casting into or near the edges of this activity with surface poppers, stickbaits, or large swimbaits can be effective The key is to match the intensity and size of the prey being targeted by the stripers

Multiple Boils at Once

What it indicates: Boils indicate stripers are feeding just below the surface, likely on a densely packed school of baitfish The water appears to "boil" as stripers and baitfish disturb it from below

Fishing strategy: Sub-surface lures like weighted swimbaits, soft jerkbaits, or metal jigs retrieved with a stop-and-go action can mimic wounded baitfish trying to escape the frenzy below.

Random Boils

What it indicates: Random boils are similar to random crashes but are less aggressive Stripers are likely feeding on smaller baitfish or invertebrates just below the surface

Fishing strategy: Smaller, subtle lures that can be presented with finesse, such as small soft plastics or unweighted flies, will match the size of the forage A gentle retrieve that mimics a slightly injured baitfish can be particularly effective.

Bird Types and Indications

Terns Small Baitfish Indicator: Agile and quick, terns often dive for small baitfish like sand eels and silver side, hinting at striped bass forcing bait to the surface

Lure Strategy: Use lures that mimic the small baitfish terns feed on Metal jigs, small paddle tail swimbaits, or soft plastics worked near the surface can be effective. The sight of diving terns should prompt anglers to cast into these areas, anticipating stripers below.

Gulls Larger Baitfish Presence: Gulls usually indicate larger prey near the surface, pointing to stripers attacking more sizable baitfish Prey could include herring, pogies and large squid

Lure Strategy: Larger, more visible lures such as topwater plugs, big soft plastics, or even big slow moving shallow running swimming plugs can attract stripers’ attention Gulls' presence, especially if they are picking at the surface, suggests stripers might be nearby, making it a good time for a topwater bite.

Gannets Sign of Deep-Water Feeding: Gannets diving from great heights are a telltale sign of significant baitfish schools below, often pursued by large stripers Lure Strategy: This is your cue to target below the surface with deep-diving plugs, heavy jigs, or weighted soft plastics The presence of gannets suggests the need for lures that can reach the depths where stripers are actively feeding

Stripers Visibly Cruising on the Surface

What it indicates: When stripers are seen visibly cruising on the surface without making aggressive feeding gestures, they are either in search of prey or digesting after a feed This behavior can also indicate curiosity towards surface objects or disturbances

Fishing strategy: This situation calls for a stealthy approach with lures that have a natural appearance and action. Topwater flies, soft plastic jerkbaits, or small, unobtrusive poppers presented in the path of cruising fish can trigger curiosity bites The key is subtlety in presentation to avoid spooking the fish.

Subtle Surface Disturbances

What it indicates: Unlike the dramatic splashes associated with feeding on larger baitfish, stripers feeding on very small baits like krill, recently hatched bay anchovies, micro silversides and teeny sand eels might create only gentle ripples or barely noticeable boils on the surface as they leisurely consume the tiny crustaceans.

Fishing strategy: Small, light lures that can be kept in the strike zone longer are ideal Think tiny spoons, very small soft plastics, or even krill-imitating flies for fly anglers The key is a delicate presentation to mimic the natural prey.

Flashing Bodies

What it indicates: You may notice the sun reflecting off the sides of stripers as they turn swiftly on their sides to feed on krill. This quick, silver flash is a telltale sign of feeding activity

Fishing strategy: Use small, flashing lures or spoons that can mimic the light flicker of krill swarms The visual attraction can be just as important as the physical imitation.

STEP 4: OBSERVATIONAL FACTORS

Multiple Species Working Together

Response: This is an awesome tell. STAY WITH THESE BIRDS as long as possible. Keep eye glued to the fish finder and be ready to drop on targets!

Lure Application: Topwater could be tough in this situation with aggressive bird behavior In this situation, I default to a heavy 3oz swimbait, a 1.5oz slider, or a 7/8oz sinking epoxy jig for casting jigs I’ll also be rigged and ready to drop on targets on the fish finder

Response: Follow the birds Cruise a long in the same direction until they thin out When this happens, circle back to where you first saw them

Cruising Birds

w the birds. Cruise a long in the same direction until they thin out. When this back to where you first saw them

Indicates potential striped bass and albie activity in the area as both species surface. Often the “tell” of cruising birds in groups suggest that that either ened and now it’s over, or that the cruising birds expect something to ea. A decent sign but the end all be all…

n: Maintain a respectful distance, casting subsurface lures or those that can c movements of baitfish trying to escape predators

Vortexing Birds

Active Feeding Frenzy: The holy grail both inshore and offshore! Clear indication of intense feeding activity directly below

Response: Approach cautiously so as not to disrupt the food-chain and cast to the edges of the frenzy

Lure Application: Fast-retrieving lures that can create disturbance or mimic the frantic movement of baitfish. Adapt lure type to situation. Terns would suggest small jigs and softbaits Gulls larger plugs etc

Birds Working Low

What it indicates: Birds hovering low over the water or dipping down to the surface without the dramatic dives seen when larger baitfish are present can indicate stripers (and the birds eeding on krill.

gy: Cast into areas where birds are showing interest but remain as stealthy as ace lures may not be as effective unless they're extremely subtle Instead, focus ing lures that can get just below the surface activity.

Sitting Birds

Indication: Suggests a feeding frenzy might have just ended, but fish could still Sitting birds are a stronger tell if they are reluctant to move out of your way and ack to the same area after you leave This is a stronger tell than “cruising birds ”

Response: Drift with the birds for a while or cruise around in the vicinity if in deeper water looking at your fish finder for bait and predators on your fish finder

Lure Application: This scenario calls for versatile lures that can be worked at various depths or with presentations that might entice a curious or lingering striper, like a slow-retrieved stick bait or a jig worked along the bottom.

Topwater Appearance: Sand eels and silver sides near the surface often create a dimpling effect on the water, resembling raindrops, as they move just below or break the surface

Terns and other small seabirds picking at the surface without making deep dives can indicate the presence of sand eels below

Sonar Appearance: In dense schools, sand eels can create cloud-like or blob-shaped signatures on sonar, reflecting their high density. The appearance can vary from elongated clouds to more compact blobs depending on the school's density and movement

Topwater Appearance: Silversides, being small and agile, often flicker at the surface as they evade predators, creating quick flashes of light or ripples. Silversides tend to form very tight, ball-shaped schools when threatened, which may cause a bulging effect on the water's surface as the school moves collectively

Match the Hatch: When targeting striped bass feeding on dense schools of sand eels, slender lures that mimic the sand eel's profile are effective Consider using small, slim, soft plastics or metal jigs that can be worked through these dense schools with a twitching or jigging action to imitate a sand eel darting out of the school. If sand eels go olive. Silverside imitations are silver and light green

Sonar Appearance: See below with sand eels

Topwater Appearance: Macks tend to hang in lower levels of the water column but sometimes you can see them surface feeding on sand eels

Sonar Appearance: Mackerel can appear as individual marks or small, tight schools, occasionally blending into more cohesive blobs when the school is densely packed.

Match the Hatch: When targeting bass and Albies feeding on dense schools of silversides, small, slender silver and glow jigs are highly effective Juvenile silversides are quite small and can scatter on the surface in abundance making match the hatch very ineffective. A small pop n’ fly presentation can sometimes crack this code

Topwater Appearance: Squid being pursued by predators often result in a unique, frothy disturbance at the surface, as squid make rapid, darting escapes shooting out of the water, often while spraying ink.

Sonar Appearance: Squid are identified by their irregular, less defined sonar signatures, which can stand out amidst more uniform baitfish schools Their movements can create a mix of scattered, individual marks and more amorphous shapes

Match the Hatch: Erratic topwater squid imitations are ideal for mimicking squid Softbaits, topwater plugs and light jigs like the Hogy Epoxy Jig lures in Amber, pink and bone are no brainers Enjoy the topwater eats!

Bay Anchovies

Topwater Appearance: Bay anchovies, often referred to as "rain bait" due to their small size and the rain-like appearance they create when schooling near the surface

Sonar Appearance: Bay anchovies typically appear as dense, cloud-like formations on fish finders, often near the surface or mid-water column Due to their small size and dense schooling behavior, they may not form distinct arches or individual marks but rather show as a fuzzy, dense mass.

Match the Hatch: Because Bay anchovies are small, it's crucial to use lures that not only mimic the size and color of the anchovies but also their behavior Downsizing your tackle will be necessary to accurately present these smaller lures

Match the Hatch: Larger, reflective, fast-moving lures work best to mimic mackerel. Choose big swimbaits, metal jigs, or shiny plugs that can be retrieved quickly or jigged to replicate the mackerel's swift movements and reflective body

Herring and Pogies (Menhaden)

Pogy Topwater Appearance: Pogies often flip or splash on the surface, especially when they are tightly schooled and being pursued by predators This creates noticeable splashes and ripples on calm days. Large schools of pogies can sometimes leave slicks on the surface due to the oil they release, which can be visible as calm patches on the water

Herring Topwater Appearance: Herring being chased by predators will frequently jump out of the water, creating a distinctive splashing sound and visual cues Diving and hovering birds can indicate schools of herring near the surface, as birds take advantage of the baitfish being pushed up by predators.

Sonar Appearance: These baitfish often appear as medium-sized, dispersed or clustered marks on sonar, forming larger blobs when in dense schools The appearance on sonar helps distinguish them from smaller, more tightly packed baitfish like sand eels

Match the Hatch: To imitate these larger baitfish, opt for bigger swimbaits, lighter colored plugs and silver jigs with a lifelike swimming action.

STEP 5: DE-BRIEF

Albies VS Bluefish

Albie Feeding Behavior

Big “Slashes” and Surface Explosions

What it indicates: Albies are fast swimmers and attack baitfish with incredible speed, often resulting in big splashes or surface explosions as they chase prey. These are usually more intense than the disturbances caused by other species due to the Albies’ high-speed pursuits

Fishing strategy: When you see these big splashes, casting metal jigs, epoxy jigs, or small stickbaits and retrieving them quickly can mimic the fleeing baitfish and attract Albies.

Boils and Nervous Water

What it indicates: Boils on the water's surface or areas that appear "nervous" with small ripples and disturbances indicate Albies feeding below These boils are caused by baitfish trying to escape the predators.

Fishing strategy: Cast lures to the edges of the boils and retrieve through them Small, fast-moving lures that can be retrieved quickly or twitched through the disturbed water work well

Baitfish “Spraying”

What it indicates: Seeing small baitfish jumping out of the water is a classic sign of Albies (or other predators) feeding beneath them. The baitfish are attempting to escape by leaping out of the water, often leading to a frenzied chase

Fishing strategy: Use small, shiny lures that imitate the size and flash of the fleeing baitfish Casting into or just beyond the area where you see jumping baitfish and quickly retrieving the lure can be effective

STEP 5: De-Brief

I don’t like coming home empty handed! You can’t always control the fishing but the good news is that each trip is an opportunity for growth and learning The key to continuously improving your fishing skills lies in meticulously documenting and analyzing each trip. This process not only helps in fine-tuning your predictions for future outings but also transforms each trip into a valuable learning experience

Download Gotone!

1 Nature of Surface Action

Bluefish: The feeding frenzy of Bluefish is often more violent and chaotic They tend to create more splashing and leave a more noticeable disturbance on the water's surface, including chopped or bitten-off baitfish floating or sinking The water may appear discolored or bloody due to their aggressive feeding.

Albies: Albies, on the other hand, create fast-moving and more streamlined disturbances Their feeds are characterized by quick, darting splashes rather than the widespread chaos of a Bluefish blitz The surface activity while feeding tends to be more focused and less brutal visually

2 Nature of Bird Activity

Bluefish: When birds are diving and staying in one place for a longer period, it often indicates Bluefish below Birds can safely pick up the pieces left behind by the messy eating habits of Bluefish without moving much

Albies: With Albies, bird activity tends to move quickly across the water, following the fast-moving schools of Albies as they chase baitfish. Birds working over Albies often appear to be moving faster and changing locations more frequently

3 Speed and Direction of Feeding

Bluefish: Bluefish can feed in a sustained manner in one area, especially if there is a large school of baitfish. They may remain in the same general vicinity, making it easier to approach and cast into the frenzy.

Albies: Albies are notorious for their hit-and-run feeding style They tend to feed in bursts, appearing on the surface for a brief moment before disappearing, only to pop up again some distance away Their movements are rapid and less predictable than Bluefish.

4 Tackle Test

If you're still unsure which species is feeding, the tackle you're using might give you a clue based on the bite and fight!

1

Analyze and Compare: Before heading out, note your expectations based on weather, tide, moon phase, and other conditions Compare Predictions to Reality: After your trip, compare your initial predictions with what “actually happened” This can help you understand the impact of various factors on fish behavior.

2

3

4

Log Actual Conditions: This includes air temperature, water temperature, wind direction and speed, sunlight conditions, tide times and stages, and any other relevant environmental factors Fish Caught: Log each fish caught with details such as time, location, lure used, and method of capture Photos can be invaluable here for verifying conditions and the fish's condition

Identify Patterns: Over time, these records will help you identify patterns in fish behavior relative to environmental conditions This can refine your ability to predict prime fishing times and conditions.

Use Technology: Leverage the Got One! App: By using a dedicated fishing log app like GotOne!, you can streamline the data collection process GotOne! can log most environmental conditions with GPS enabled photos, making it easier to correlate fishing success with specific conditions with built in reports. GotOne! was developed by a fellow tuna angler too!

ELECTRONICS

ADJUSTING SETTINGS

Reading your fish finder correctly and knowing exactly how to interpret the image can be challenging. There are many different types of targets that show up on your unit, and it can be a lot to process while trying to catch fish You’ve got rocks, weed beds, baitfish, game fish, and more Here’s a quick run-down to help break down what you are looking at and why it shows up that way on your screen.

COLOR SETTING

Helps identify what you are looking at by indicating the target’s density

I use my factory setting for colors which basically delineate how dense an object being “returned” to the screen is. In my Garmin unit, Maroon is the densest color and light blue is the least dense Returns that are maroon will be targets like dense bait balls, large fish (pinged off the swim bladder), debris and of course bottom Harder rocky bottom is maroon and softer clay bottom has more orange and yellow hues

Approach: I use the factory setting

High Frequency for shallow water Low Frequency for deep water

For starters, most units have the option for two frequencies, high and low Beam shaped like a cone Deeper you are, the wider your cone is, which is why you may see more marks down deep The frequency setting on a fish finder refers to the frequency of the sound waves emitted by the device Here are the key differences between high frequency and low frequency settings on fish finders Higher the frequency, the narrower the cone which also limits the effectiveness in deeper water.

Range: High frequency settings typically have a shorter range than low frequency settings. This is because high frequency waves are absorbed more quickly in water than low frequency waves If you are fishing in shallow water, a high frequency setting provides more detail on targets in a smaller area. In deeper water, a low frequency setting is more effective as it can cover a larger area.

Detail: High frequency settings provide more detail on small targets such as individual fish, as they can produce more detailed images of underwater structures. Low frequency settings, on the other hand, may not provide as much detail on small targets, but they can detect larger objects such as schools of fish or larger underwater structures

Clarity: High frequency settings tend to provide clearer images of targets, as they can distinguish between smaller objects and provide more detail on their shapes and movements Low frequency settings may provide less clarity but can still provide valuable information on the presence and location of larger objects.

Interference: High frequency settings may be more susceptible to interference from debris and bubbles in the water, which can create false readings or make it difficult to detect targets. Low frequency settings may be less affected by these types of interference.

Approach: if fishing in deeper water, I typically use the split screen setting. I will set my High Frequency display to the upper half of the water column’ and my low frequency for the full span

FREQUENCY GAIN & FILTER

Gain controls the sensitivity of the sonar system to incoming signals, while filter adjusts the type or range of signals that are displayed on the fish finder

While gain and filter are both settings that affect the display of sonar data on a fish finder, they have different functions

Gain: is a setting that controls the sensitivity of the sonar system to echoes or signals received from underwater Increasing the gain will amplify the strength of the returning sonar signals, making it easier to see weaker echoes such as those from smaller fish or baitfish. However, if the gain is set too high, it can also amplify background noise and clutter, resulting in a cluttered or confusing display Therefore, it's important to adjust the gain carefully to ensure the best balance between sensitivity and clarity of the sonar display.

Filter: on the other hand, is a setting that allows you to adjust the type or frequency range of the sonar signals that are displayed on the fish finder For example, some filters may be designed to reduce interference or noise from sources such as waves or other boats, while others may be used to enhance the display of specific types of targets, such as bottom structure or schools of fish. Filters can be adjusted in a variety of ways depending on the specific fish finder, such as by adjusting the frequency range, the strength of the filter, or the type of filter used

Side scan sonar is relatively new to me. This summer was the first year I had it on my own boat. The ability to see out towards both sides of the boat while searching for fish is a game changer Especially when traversing unfamiliar waters

Down scan fish finders: Down scan fish finders use a transducer to emit a sonar signal straight down beneath the boat, providing a clear view of the bottom structure and any fish that are directly beneath the boat Down scan images are typically high resolution, making it easier to distinguish individual fish or structures and also what depth the target pinged at.

Side scan fish finders: Side scan fish finders use a transducer to emit a sonar signal out to the sides of the boat, providing a wider view of the underwater environment. The side scan signal creates a detailed image of the bottom and any underwater structures, such as wrecks or reefs, that are to the side of the boat Side scan images are typically less detailed than down scan images, but they cover a much larger area The one

ELECTRONICS

LIVESCOPE SONAR

Livescope sonar is a variation of traditional down-scan technology that uses real-time imaging to give anglers a clear view of what is happening beneath the surface It works by sending a high-frequency sonar signal which then bounces off objects in the water and returns to the transducer The Livescope sonar processes the returned signals and creates a detailed, three-dimensional image of the underwater environment, including fish, bait, and structure

This technology is particularly useful because it allows anglers to see fish in real time as they move and react to bait or lures It can help in identifying the size and species of fish, as well as their behavior and activity level. Anglers can use this information to make more informed decisions about where to fish, what lures to use, and how to present them

THE BREAKDOWN Basics

Sonar signal: The transducer sends out a high-frequency sonar signal, which travels through the water and bounces off fish, bait, and structure. Just like any other traditional sonar.

Returned signal: When the sonar signal bounces off an object, it returns to the transducer The Livescope system processes the returned signals and creates a detailed image of the underwater environment

When to use

This is where it gets interesting!

Imaging: The imaging technology used by Livescope is called Forward facing Sonar, which creates a real-time, threedimensional image of what is happening below This technology is capable of producing very detailed images, including the size and shape of individual fish and structure

Display: The display can show anglers where fish are located and even which direction they are facing or swimming, as well as the location of underwater structure and concentrations of bait.

Shallow water: Livescope sonar can be particularly effective when fishing in shallower water because it can provide very detailed images of the underwater environment you are fishing In shallow water, it can be easier to see individual fish and their behavior, which can be helpful in many different scenarios The ability to see fish in real-time as they move and react to bait or lures can also be an advantage in shallower water where fish may be more finicky. Not to mention the “fun factor” of seeing a fish react to your lure is at an all time high!

Detailed structure: Livescope sonar can also be helpful for understanding specific underwater structure points, such as rock piles, weed beds, or drop-offs. The technology can provide a detailed image of the structure and show where fish are located in relation to it. Additionally, it can show how fish are relating to the structure, such as whether they are suspending over it or relating to a specific part of the structure. I find Livescope sonar has been particularly effective when targeting various groundfish species. Knowing where a tautog is sitting relative to a boulder, or how suspended black sea bass are over a hump has been a game changer in my fishing success

Check out this video we filmed during the 2022 Salty Cape Filming season. We were utilizing the Garmin Livescope to target large schools of scup in Vineyard Sound.

TRANSCRIBING MARKS

BAIT BALLS

This was a very dense school of Macks aggressively herding sand eels This was actually on the backside down in Truro late spring Different sonar frequencies show different targets, but the Macs are clearly identifiable as individual targets at High frequencies compare to sand eels which are almost always densely packed together People don’t often think of Macs as a predator but they are very aggressive, is why they are so easy to catch

GAMEFISH

Stripers

Compared to other smaller bait, Macs often show up as individual fish and typically spread through the water column unless they have reason to be tightly balled up. The larger they are, the more individual targets you might see This particular school passed under the boat followed by a school of stripers. You can clearly see the size difference You may notice these “worms” or “noodles” as they are often called when drifting in moving water with stripers or squid at the same pace

Tip:

You can easily save the coordinates of a target on most modern units. If the targets were good and you are drifting off the spot fast, mark the location you were finding fish and set up on another drift.

STRUCTURE

This is the Artificial reef in front of Saquatucket, not the Yarmouth tire reef. There are large concrete rubble structures here that are very visible on sonar or side imaging In this shot you can see individual tautog or sea bass holing tight to the rocky structure. Having spear fished similar places around the Cape I would say that the marks holding tightest to the structure are more likely tautog while those venturing further off are more likely sea bass or scup

SQUID

This is pretty typical Squid are difficult to see on sonar with factory default settings. You often have to tweak gain and other filter settings to get a clear image among the other noise that comes with tweaking filters The right hand image is of Down imaging. This would be a different frequency range and a wider swath of bottom due to the nature of the element arrays in those transducers. My experience has been that they often show squid a bit better You will find squid through the water column, but “typical” daytime squid in early spring will be schools tighter to bottom Often difficult to distinguish from bottom so using a bottom zoom can often help.

TOP INSHORE FORAGE

&theIslands Amaturesilversidecanreachabout 6inchesbutareoftenfoundinschoolsoutinopen waterandarefrequentlybetween2and4inches long Silversidestendtomoveslowlyinlarge schools.Theirsilverylaterallineisverydistinctive andcanbeproblematiciffishcanbetookeyedin onthem Thebestretrievespeedformimicking silversidesisaslowtomediumretrieve

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Silver2ndChoice:Bone

LURE SELECTION

Perhapsbyvariousdifferentnames,Ithinkthere aresandeelsineverybodyofwater Sandeelscan rangefrom2to9inches Nothingdrivesbassand albiescrazierthanbigballsofsandeels Theycan showupinalllevelsofthewatercolumnsobe readywithdifferentweights Sandeelsareolive andsilverandinlikekind,thosearethecolorsyou woulduse.Thatsaid,alongnarrowprofilegoesa longwayinimitatingsandeelsaswell

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Olive2ndChoice:Silver

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Green2ndChoice:BlackandSilver

SELECTION

Likethejuvenileherring,bassandalbiesgetvery aggressivewhenkeyedinonsmallmackerel.They arefastmovingschools,sobereadytobenimble Obviouslygreenisthetopcolorformatchingthe hatchformackerel Asfasttoveryfastretrieveis idealfortheselittlespeedsters SQUID

Aroundinshorestriperwaters,youwilloften encounterlargesquidinthespringthathave movedontotheshoalstospawn,followedby juvenilesquidrelativelysoonafterthespawning seasonisover Needlesstosay,smallsquidarea bassdelightinJuneandJuly Smallsquidschool up,butnotastightlyassomeoftheotherwehave covered

TOP COLORS

Youknowthefallhaseitherarrivedorimminent whenpeanutbunkershowup Likethebay anchovy,peanutbunkerballupingreatnumbers justunderthesurface Peanutbunkertypically rangefrom2to3inches.Likeboththebayanchovy andthesilversides,peanutbunkertoohaveavery distinctivecolorpatterns Whentheyaredead, theyappeartobesilverastheylosetheir colorationveryquickly Don’tbefooled!Butalive andwellintheirhabitat,Peanutbunkerhavean olivetwinge,withpinkcolorations Yourgoto colorpatternswillbeolive,ideallywithapink twinge

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Bone2ndChoice:Silver

Latesummerandfallarethetimeswhenthese smallbaitfishmaketheirwayoutintothebig ocean Juvenileherringgetballedupeasily,butin myopinionoftenseparatefasterthanother schooledbaitfish Whileschoolsofjuvenilesea herringcanappearatanytime,juvenileriver herringtypicallymoveoutoftheirbirthingwaters andoutintoopenwaterfollowingadayormoreof heavyrainfall.Ipersonallyfindthatpredators keyedinonherringtendtobetheeasiesttocatch

1stChoice:Amber2ndChoice:Pink

TOP COLORS

LURE SELECTION LURE SELECTION LURE SELECTION

1stChoice:Blue 2ndChoice:Bone

E

EPOXYJIG

EPOXYJIG

SURFACEERASER

CHARTERGRADESLIDER

‘CHOVYJIG

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Silver2ndChoice:Bone

Perhapsbyvariousdifferentnames,Ithinkthere aresandeelsineverybodyofwater Sandeelscan rangefrom2to9inches Nothingdrivesbassand albiescrazierthanbigballsofsandeels Theycan showupinalllevelsofthewatercolumnsobe readywithdifferentweights Sandeelsareolive andsilverandinlikekind,thosearethecolorsyou woulduse.Thatsaid,alongnarrowprofilegoesa longwayinimitatingsandeelsaswell

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Olive2ndChoice:Silver

TOP ALBIE FORAGE

Likethejuvenileherring,bassandalbiesgetvery aggressivewhenkeyedinonsmallmackerel.They arefastmovingschools,sobereadytobenimble Obviouslygreenisthetopcolorformatchingthe hatchformackerel Asfasttoveryfastretrieveis idealfortheselittlespeedsters

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Green2ndChoice:BlackandSilver

BUTTERFISH

Tinybutterfishcanbefoundballedupalloverthe Cape&Islandsinthefall Butterfishhaveaunique profilethatishardtoreplicateandstillhaveagood swimmingactionwithametallure Asaresult small,fatandroundsoftbaitsinaboneorsilvery colorationisthewaytogo.Theyareslowmoving, soaslowtomediumretrieveisideal

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Silver2ndChoice:Blue

Youknowthefallhaseitherarrivedorimminent whenpeanutbunkershowup Likethebay anchovy,peanutbunkerballupingreatnumbers justunderthesurface Peanutbunkertypically rangefrom2to3inches.Likeboththebayanchovy andthesilversides,peanutbunkertoohaveavery distinctivecolorpatterns Whentheyaredead, theyappeartobesilverastheylosetheir colorationveryquickly Don’tbefooled!Butalive andwellintheirhabitat,Peanutbunkerhavean olivetwinge,withpinkcolorations Yourgoto colorpatternswillbeolive,ideallywithapink twinge

Schoolsofbayanchoviesareeasilyidentifiableby theorangeormuddybrownappearanceofthebait ballinthewater Theyaretypicallyabout2to4 incheslong Likethesilverside,theircolorationis verydistinctive,easilyidentifiedbytheirorangeor brownishappearanceandsilverstriping Alsolike thesilverside,bassandalbiescanreallykeyinon theirappearance,makingithardtocatchwithout therightprofile.Anchovyfeedscanoftenbethe mostexcitingastheyshowerthewater

TOP COLORS

1stChoice:Shrimp 2ndChoice:Silver

SLOWTAILSWIMBAIT

WHAT TO USE?

Inline hooks are ideal for casting on jigs of all sizes and shallow water jigging in up to 60’ of water

Treble hooks are popular on small casting jigs and for shallow water jigging for small groundfish such as porgy and sea bass

Bucktail hooks offer an additional length, flash and add extra action to your jigs & plugs

Assist hook rigging is ideal for jigging with water over 60' deep and for targeting larger gamefish like Striper, Tuna, Grouper and large Snapper.

TREBLE VS. INLINE RIGGING

Treble hooks should be approximately the width of the side of lure.

Inline hooks should be wide enough to cradle the lure at it's mid-section. Assist hooks should span 1/3 to 1/2 of the lure length.

WHAT TO USE?

Q: Which is easiest to un-hook?

A: A single hook is easiest to unhook But, if using trebles, you can facilitate the release by mashing the barbs down with pliers.

Q: Which is most successful?

A: All hooks “do the job” to be done but treble hooks are hard to beat in terms of landing ratio

Q: What's a good teaser for my favorite plug?

A: Bucktail hooks make great teasers by adding length, flash and action to the lure. Bucktail is more durable than using a softbait teaser

WHEN TO USE?

A) A double treble hook configuration is the most popular rigging method for plugs and offers the best hook up ratios

B) Two “Single” style hooks are the easiest to “de-hook” but some anglers complain of missed fish

C) The "Single/Treble Combo" is a compromise Some anglers say this configuration enhances the action.

Treble hooks should be approximately the width of the side of lure.

Treble hooks should be about as wide as the lure body Center hook should face downwards.

A B C

DOUBLE TREBLE

Inline sytle hooks offer perfect articulation upward or downward

DOUBLE SINGLE

The single / treble combo is an angler favorite for better hookups and easier releases.

Inline hooks should be wide enough to cradle the lure at it's mid-section

SINGLE / TREBLE

Bucktail hook adds extra flash, length and action to your favorite plugs

BUCKTAIL HOOKS

BODY STYLE

EELS: Use to imitate live eels, slender baitfish and sand eels. PADDLES: Use to attract scattered gamefish with tail vibrations or to imitate larger baitfish.

SOFTBAIT RIGGING

(A) Soft Circle: Topwater

PROS: Amazing action, super easy to rig. Simply screw the bait in. CONS: Can miss smaller fish.

(B) Swimbait Hook: Midwater

Often lightly weighted, this hook is typically known for a subsurface presentation. PROS: Weed Resistant, keels bait, aids with casting. CONS: Requires more rigging maintenance.

(C) Jig Head: Bottom

Best for deep water or near-bottom presentation.

PROS: Easy to rig CONS: Limited to a deeper presentation

SOFTBAIT RETRIEVES

Softbaits can be fished in a similarly to casting jigs (see page 1). Or visit hogylures.com/retrieves

TOPWATER: SOFT CIRCLE MID-WATER: SWIMBAIT HOOK

PRE-RIGGED VS R

RIG YOUR OWN:

PROS: Allows for customization of p be more economical if you can repai

CONS: Requires periodic rigging and throughout the day

PRE-RIGGED:

BOTTOM: JIG HEAD B C

PROS: Easy to use, swims perfectly out of the package and more durable.

CONS: You are limited to the “built in” action that is n customizable.

CATCH & RELEASE TACTICS

PRACTICE CATCH & RELEASE

Tokeepthestripedbasspopulationhealthy,it'simportanttopracticeproperhandling andfishingtechniquestominimizedamagedonetoacaughtfish,andensurethefish weallloveisabletoswimoffstrongandhealthy

Withalittlebitofplanningandgear modification,youcandoyourpartinensuringstripedbasscontinuetothrivehereon theeastcoast!

1 GO BARBLESS

Usingbarblesshooksishighlyrecommendedasitmakesthereleaseofyourcatch quickerandeasierwhileminimizingharmtothefish'smouth Youcanusepliersto flattenthebarbsonyourhooksorfilethemoffentirely,especiallyforlargerhooks You maybesurprisedathowfewfishyoulosewithbarblesshookscomparedtobarbed hooks It'snotuncommonforanglerstohookthemselveswhilefishing,soremoving thebarbscansaveyoufromunnecessarypainandinjury It'sbettertotakeprecautions nowandenjoyasuccessfulandhumanefishingexperience.

2 MINIMIZE FIGHT TIMES

It'scrucialtoavoidunnecessarilyprolongingthefightwithafishasitcancauseundue stressandharmtothefish.Exhaustedfishmayswimawayinitially,buttheycanendup dyingafewdayslaterduetotheaccumulationoflacticacidintheirsystem Thelonger thestruggle,themorelacticacidbuildsupandthehighertheriskoflong-termharm Therefore,it'sessentialtousetheappropriatelineteststrengthforthetypeoffish you'retargetingandtoreelinthefishquicklyandefficiently,whilestillhandlingit withcare Remember,thegoalistocatchthefishsuccessfully,butnotattheexpenseof itswell-being

3 KEEP FISH WET

It'sbesttoavoidliftingfishoutofthewaterandminimizetouchingthemasmuchas possible Manyfishcanbereleasedwithoutanyphysicalcontactbygentlyremovingthe hookwithyourhandorpliersandallowingthefishtoswimaway Studieshaveshown thatkeepingfishinthewatercansignificantlyincreasetheirchancesofsurvival Imaginefinishinganexhaustingactivitylikerunning,onlytohaveyourairsupplycut off-that'spreciselywhathappenswhenweremovefishfromthewater Fishthat remainoutofthewaterforoveraminuteareatahighriskofdiminishedsurvival,and oncetheyhavebeenoutforthreeminutesormore,theirsurvivalchancesarealmost non-existent,eveniftheyswimaway So,ifyouwanttohelpconservefishpopulations andpromoteethicalfishingpractices,keeptheminthewaterasmuchaspossibleand handlethemwithcarewhenyouneedto

4 CATCH - PHOTO - RELEASE (CPR)

Whilecatch-photo-release(CPR)isanadmirablepractice,it'scrucialtotakephotos quicklyandwithminimalimpactonthefish Afishwithadeeplyembeddedhookor linecansuffersevereinjuriesandhavealimitedchanceofsurvivalifleftdangling Takingphotosofanglersstandinginthewater,holdingafishjustabovethesurface, drippingwithwater,cancreatestunningimagesthatconveyapositivemessage.In contrast,photosoflongstringsofdeadfishorbucketsoffishareconsidereddistasteful andarebecomingincreasinglyfrownedupon Ifyoudokeepsomefish,it'sbesttolift onlyoneortwoofthebestonesandtakeaquickphotowhilestillnearthewater.This way,youcanhaveamemorythatyoucanbeproudof,andotherswillfindcomfortable tolookat Remember,thegoalistopromoteresponsiblefishingpracticesand conservation,andeveryactionwetakecanmakeadifference

FILLETING "FIN-FISH"

Soyou'vedecidedtokeepafishortwoforthetable Maybe limitedoutonBlackSeabass?OrafewscuptobakewithRitz crackersandbutter?Maybeevenabluefishforthesmoker Whilesomefishmayhavethickerortougherscales,and somemayhavedifferentbonestructures,theoverallprocess remainsthesame Withasharpknifeandafewsimple techniques,anyonecanlearnhowtofilletafishandcreate deliciousmealsinnotime!

1 ANGLE CUT

Yourfirstincisionwhenfilletinganyfin-fishwillbewhatwe liketocallyour"AngleCut".Thisisacutfromthetopofthe fisheshead,behindthepectoralfin,andtowardsthe stomach TIP:Ifyou'redealingwithafishwithtougher scales,likeaseabass,slightlyangleyourknifetoworkunder thescales,opposedtotryingtocutdireectlyontopofthem

2 TOP SHOULDER CUT

Yournextincisionwillbeyour"TopShoulderCut" Rotate yourfishtohaveitsdorsalfinfacingyou Simplyinsertyour knifealongthetopshoulder,pointingtowardsthebellyand followthebackboneallthewaydowntowardsthetail, makingasfewsawingmotionsaspossible Thiswillresultin muchcleanerlookingfilets Onceyougettowardsthetail sectionofthefish,youcancomeouttheothersideofthe fishtoseparatethefillet

3

FINISH & SKIN

STRIPED BASS BLUEFISH

The best tasting stripers are those that are feeding on crustaceans in rocky areas The oiler their diet, the fishier they will test Stripers are best on day #3 in fridge as meat relaxes

Bluefish don't keep well in the fridge

While all fish benefit from bleeding, it is especially the case with bluefish With soft flesh, blues should be well iced and cleaned promptly at the dock. Serve as soon a possible.

SEA BASS SCUP

Sea bass make excellent sushi! Like stripers, they can age a couple days in the fridge

New England's best kept fish secret

Bake in casserole with buttery crackers

Create a little "nub" for a better grip when skinning

Thehardestpartisover!Nowit sjustamatterofcarefully passingovertheribcageofyourfishandcomingoutthe otherside. Flipyourfish,repeatthisprocessandyourin businessforcooking!TIP:Becarefulnottopuncturethe stomachcontentswhenfinishingoffthefillet

Hogy Charter Grade

Slider

Hogy Epoxy Jig

Hogy XL Dog Walker

BASS AND BLUES CASTING LURES

arter pper

Hogy Protail Paddle

Swimbait

Hogy Charter Grade

Surface Eraser

Epoxy Jig: The Hogy Epoxy Jig® Lure, designed to resemble baitfish such as sand eels, silversides, bay anchovies, and peanut bunker, comes in a range of sizes suitable for targeting striped bass. Among these, the 7/8oz and 2oz sizes are the most practical for stripers, offering the perfect balance for versatile fishing techniques These sizes ensure optimal performance, whether you’re casting or jigging in various conditions. The lure’s design allows for it to be fished slow and low, at a medium pace, or with a tip-up action to mimic a fleeing baitfish, with its keeled design ensuring precision in every style of fishing. Rigged with an inline single hook, these sizes maximize hookups in the large mouths of stripers and support healthier catch-and-release practices by minimizing harm to the fish

Hogy Slowtail

Swimbait

Hogy Protail Thumper

Swimbait

Primary Technique: Sub surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator of small baitfish

ProTail Paddle: The Hogy ProTail Paddle Lure was designed to imitate the appearance larger baitfish such as herring, mullet, mackerel, and bunker making it an excellent choice for striped bass keyed in on larger baits The most effective sizes for targeting stripers are the 1 5oz and 3oz variants, which provide the ideal weight for various conditions. The lure's unique paddle tail creates a lifelike swimming action that can be worked slowly to mimic a wounded baitfish, at a moderate pace to simulate a casually swimming fish, or rapidly to imitate a panicked prey, with its well-balanced design ensuring accuracy in each retrieval. Equipped with a heavy-duty barbarian hook, allow for secure hook sets in the hard mouths of stripers, while also promoting safer catch-and-release practices by reducing injury to the fish

Primary Technique: Sub surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator of larger forage.

Charter Grade Slider: The Hogy Charter Grade Slider is meticulously crafted to mimic the subtler surface disturbances and underwater movements larger baitfish, making it great for when stripers are dialed in on these larger baits The most versatile sizes for stripers are the 1 5oz and 4oz models These sizes ideal for anything from subtle surface presentations to deeper water retrievals. The streamlined design is intended to facilitate a gliding action on the retrieve, capable of being employed at a slow pace to resemble a dazed baitfish This lure can be fished anywhere from slow to fast, with an emphasis on mimicking medium to large forage fish.

Primary Technique: Sub surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Imitator of larger forage

XL Dogwalker: The XL Dogwalker, an upsized variant of the Hogy Dogwalker, is engineered as the pinnacle big bait imitator for stripers, especially when larger prey like bunker and mackerel are prevalent This lure excels in mimicking the erratic, side-to-side walk-the-dog action that stripers can't resist, with the ability to be worked both slowly and at a medium pace across the water's surface Its design allows for easy casting and retrieval, enabling anglers to cover a significant area when targeting surface-feeding striped bass The lure's substantial size and imitative action make it ideal for drawing aggressive strikes from trophy stripers, while its walk-the-dog style adds an enticing visual aspect to the presentation s substantial size and imitative action make it ideal for drawing aggressive strikes from trophy stripers, while it

Primary Technique: Topwater Casting Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Big Bait Imitator

Charter Grade Dogwalker: The Hogy Dogwalker is the little brother to our XL version. The smaller profile is ideal for scenarios where medium size forage is abundant The optimal retrieve style involves holding the rod at a 25- to 45-degree angle and employing a medium-fast retrieve reel retrieve with intermittent rod jerks to create that “walk the dog” style action This action mimics fleeing baitfish, drawing aggressive strikes from stripers Its ability to be fished with varying speeds and actions, coupled with its unique walking motion, positions it as a key lure in any striper angler's arsenal.

Primary Technique: Topwater Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Medium Bait Imitator

Protail Thumper: The Hogy Pro Tail Thumper designed to mimic larger forage like bunker and herring This lure stands out with its ultra-durable Protail Softbait Plastic and innovative Battle Pocket, ensuring it withstands the extreme wear and tear from striper fishing. The Pro Tail Thumper's ultrathumping vibration and wobble are irresistible, simulating the erratic movements of wounded or fleeing baitfish. Available in sizes that are ideal for casting in a variety of conditions, its high-visibility UV infusion and heavy-duty blended plastic enhance both its attractiveness and durability When paired with the Hogy Ultra Barbarian Jig Head, it offers a perfectly balanced presentation Equipped with a heavy-duty hook, it ensures secure hook sets in the tough mouths of stripers.

Primary Technique: Sub surface casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator of large baitfish

Surface Eraser: The Surface Eraser lure, with its slender, streamlined design akin to a small pencil popper, is ideal for targeting striped bass when they are keyed into surface or subsurface feeding. Designed for super long casts, it offers three distinctive retrieval techniques – Skippy Retrieve for mimicking surface fleeing baitfish, “Soft Bait” Retrieve for an action similiar to an unweighted soft bait, and “Needle Fish” Retrieve to simulate the gentle, enticing motion of an injured sand eel. These methods ensure the Surface Eraser's versatility in various fishing conditions, making it a go-to lure for striper fishing Its ability to produce side-to-side swimming, quick darting movements, and erratic surface splashing, combined with a design that supports catch-and-release with minimal harm, positions the Surface Eraser as a top choice for anglers targeting stripers

Primary Technique: Topwater + Sub Surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Small Bait Imitator

Charter Grade Popper: With origins tracing back to the iconic “hula popper”, this lure is specifically made for inshore striped bass fishing Its distinctive popping action, capable of drawing stripers from a distance, makes it an indispensable lure for surface casting. Recognized for its “slow” surface attractor category, this lure is meticulously rigged to “charter grade” specifications, ensuring it meets the high standards demanded by anglers straight out of the package. This lure is ideal for blind casting situations and times when striped bass are feeding on the surface

Primary Technique: Surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Attractor

Slowtail Swimbait: The Hogy Slow Tail stands out with its innovative twin tail design, providing exceptional action even at the slowest speeds This lure is specifically designed to address the challenges anglers face when targeting finicky stripers in shallow waters, where precision and subtlety are key Its lightly weighted, pre-rigged form allows for effortless casting into skinny water, minimizing the risk of snagging while maximizing the lure's enticing movement. The unique, thin, outward-facing twin tails of the Hogy Slow Tail vibrate to mimic the natural action of baitfish, making it an excellent alternative to traditional eel tail lures Anglers are advised to utilize a slow, steady retrieve with the rod tip held at a 45-degree angle, optimizing the lure's inherent action. Primary Technique: Casting sub-surface Speed: Slow Style: Attractor

BASS AND BLUES JIGGING LURES

Hogy Protail Eel

Hogy Charter Grade Surface Eraser

Hogy Sand Eel Jig Hogy Epoxy Jig

Hogy Protail Thumper Swimbait

Hogy Protail Paddle Swimbait

Hogy Slappy Jiggin’ Eel

Slappy Jiggin’ Eel: The 13-inch Slappy Eel, pioneered by Hogy Pro-Staffer Eric "Slappy" Harrison, has redefined jigging for trophy striped bass This lure, closely resembling the American eel a prime forage for stripers combines the allure of natural bait with the advantage of controlled, artificial movement It shines particularly in jigging applications, where its significant length and lifelike profile produce an enticing undulation that mimics the eel’s natural movements. The Slappy Eel’s design allows anglers to introduce a customizable action to their jigging technique, offering a slow crank with intermittent twitches that perfectly imitates an eel navigating through the water

Primary Technique: Jigging Speed: Slow Style: Eel Imitator

Sand Eel Jig: Engineered to flawlessly replicate the sand eel, a crucial baitfish for striped bass, the Sand Eel Jig is a must for any striper angler's arsenal When jigged, this lure exhibits a lifelike imitation of the sand eel's movements, from twitchy, erratic actions to slow, enticing pitches that appeal to stripers in both shallow and deeper water The ability to adjust the jigging speed medium for active fish and slow for a more subdued presentation enhances its versatility Equipped with assist hooks for a secure hook set and tangle free jigging. The most popular sizes fro striped bass jigging are the 3 5oz-4 5oz models

Primary Technique: Jigging with Assist Hook versions Speed: Medium and Fast Style: Sand Eel Imitator

Epoxy Jig: The Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure is essential for any serious gler's toolkit ent in the The lure's keeled design ensures a consistent, fluttering fall, ideal for enticing stripers in both shallow and deeper waters Featuring high-visibility UV infusion and adaptable hook configurations, it can be fished a magnitude of different ways. The Hogy Epoxy Jig Lure's lifelike action and durable construction make it perfect for targeting striped bass under a multitude of conditions

Primary Technique: Jigging Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Im waters and the deeper offshore zones Featur

Protail Eel: The Pro Tail Eel offers a supremely natural presentation for targeting striped bass through jigging techniques This lure is distinguished by its straight eel tail design, which does not disperse as much water as a paddle tail, offering a subtler action in the water Ideal for mimicking the movement of sand eels, a favored prey of striped bass, it excels in a variety of jigging applications. Its design allows for a cast and drop or straight vertical retrieve The Pro Tail Eel is engineered to also mimic the lifelike action of an eel, making it a top choice for anglers aiming to imitate one of stripers favorite forage species

Primary Technique: Jigging Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Eel + Sand Eel Imitator

Hogy Sand Eel Jig

GROUNDFISH JIGS

Hogy Charter Grade

Surface Eraser

Hogy Epoxy Jig

Hogy Heavy Minnow Jig

Hogy Squid Jig

Hogy Jig-Biki Rigs

Hogy Diesel Mackerel Rigs

Sand Eel Jig: The Sand Eel Jig is specifically engineered for jigging groundfish, offering a perfect imitation of the slender sand eels that many bottom-dwelling species find irresistible With different weight options, this jig is versatile enough to cater to different depths and currents, ensuring that anglers can effectively target groundfish such as black seabass, fluke, and scup across a variety of underwater landscapes The assist hook rigging enhances the jig's naturalistic presentation, allowing for a slow, twitchy action that closely mimics the movements of a live sand eel. This lifelike action, combined with the jig's olive color pattern for matching the hatch and vibrant attractor colors like pink and green, makes it an indispensable tool for anyone jigging for groundfish.

Primary Technique: Jigging Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Surface Eraser: Tailored for versatility, the Surface Eraser, though initially designed for casting, can be used as a potent lure for jigging groundfish. Its slender, topwater plug profile, reminiscent of streamlined baitfish, adapts seamlessly to the vertical jigging technique, offering an innovative approach to targeting groundfish species such as seabass, fluke, and even weakfish This past season we put this lure to the test vertical jigging for weakfish in shallow water. The keel weighting system on this lure creates a deadly fluttering action that fish can not resist This adaptability is further enhanced by the lure's construction, designed to withstand the harsh bottoms groundfish often reside on, ensuring durability and effectiveness in the pursuit of groundfish

Primary Technique: Topwater + Sub Surface

Casting + Vertical Jigging Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Epoxy Jig: Traditionally celebrated for its surface casting capabilities, this jig also stands out as an exceptional choice for jigging groundfish, particularly in the context of shallow water environments The jig's design, mimicking the fluttering action of small baitfish or sand eels, is perfect for attracting the attention of various groundfish The versatility of the Epoxy Jig, able to be worked through various depths with ease due to its range of weights, offers anglers the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions on the water Whether targeting groundfish in coastal shallows or over structure, the Epoxy Jig's lifelike appearance and action ensure it is a highly effective tool in the angler's arsenal

Primary Technique: Casting + Jigging Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Hogy Squinnow Jig

Hogy SquidBiki Rigs

Heavy Minnow Jig: The Heavy Minnow Jig excels in the realm of jigging for groundfish, offering a distinctive approach with its dense, compact design that's ideal for deeper water scenarios Its heavier weight and stubbier profile enable it to punch through currents, allowing for precise placement in deeper waters or over structure where groundfish like tog, seabass, and scup are often found in ealrier parts of the season Despite its effectiveness in deeper water, the Heavy Minnow's design also makes it suitable for shallower water, offering versatility to anglers targeting groundfish across a spectrum of environments With its balance of weight and design, the Heavy Minnow Jig becomes a critical tool for anglers looking to adapt their jigging strategy to the conditions at hand

Primary Technique: Jigging Speed: Medium and Fast Style: Attractor and Imitator

Jig-Biki Rig: The Jig - Biki Rig introduces a unique and versatile system to traditional jigging for groundfish, combining the efficacy of teaser systems with the robust design of Hogy jigs This rig, featuring premium mono and equipped with two life like teasers, can be seamlessly paired with any Hogy jig, enhancing its effectiveness. Whether it's the subtle presentation of a Sand Eel Jig or the aggressive action of a Heavy Minnow Jig, the Jig - Biki Rig amplifies the jig's appeal, presenting a more substantial profile to attract wary groundfish. Its adaptability allows anglers to explore various depths and environments, from shallow water habitats to deep water structures, making it a highly effective tool for targeting a wide range of groundfish species

Primary Technique: Groundfish Jigging Speed: Slow Style: Imitator

Squinnow Jig: Tailored for precision and effectiveness in targeting inshore groundfish, the Squinnow Groundfish Jig is a must for angler targeting species like scup, sea bass, and tog This jig, with its unique rounded body and low center of gravity, excels in shallow water environments where its "juicy" action can perfectly mimic the subtle movements of small baitfish or crustaceans The Squinnow's compact and dense form allows it to be fished in deeper water settings Standard rigged with a VMC assist hook, this jig was made to perform flawlessly under various jigging retrieves and settings.

Primary Technique: Jigging for groundfish Speed: Slow Style: Attractor and Imitator

Charter Grade Squid Jig: The Squid Jig stands as a specialized tool designed explicitly for squid fishing, embodying the perfect blend of visual appeal and tactile sensation to mimic the prey of squid with unparalleled accuracy. Its unique soft-style paint finish provides a natural feel, enticing squid to latch onto the jig with more confidence Equipped with lifelike legs made from extremely durable soft plastic and sticky sharp stainless squid hooks, this jig is engineered to grip and secure squid quickly upon contact. The incorporation of UV-infused plastic and glow pigments further enhances its effectiveness, making it irresistible to even the most finicky cephalopods The Squid Jig's design features, including a built-in keel for a slow sink rate and horizontal movement, allow it to be effortlessly integrated into any fishing strategy aimed at squid

Primary Technique: Squid Fishing Speed: Slow Style: Attractor and Imitator

Squid-Biki Rig: This rig is ideal for times when squid are selective, the Hogy Squid Biki Rig offers a subtler alternative to traditional squid jigs with its smaller profile This rig excels in enticing cautious squid, mimicking the small baitfish or crustaceans they prefer. Its compact design is particularly effective against picky feeders, providing a less intrusive option that can coax even the most hesitant squid into striking. The Squid Biki Rig is a strategic choice for anglers facing finicky conditions, ensuring higher success rates by appealing to the squid's selective nature with precision and finesse

Primary Technique: Squid Jigging Speed: Slow Style: Imitator

Diesel Mack Rig: The Diesel Mack Rig is specifically designed for efficiently catching mackerel to use as bait, providing anglers with a high-grade tool tailored for mackerel fishing Its construction is optimized for attracting and securing mackerel, thanks to its durable components and design that mimics the small fish and crustaceans mackerel prey upon The Diesel Mack Rig offers a reliable solution, ensuring a well-stocked bait supply for targeting larger inshore fish.

Primary Technique: Bait Fishing Speed: Variable Style: Attractor

Heavy Minnow Jig: The Heavy Minnow Jig with its robust design and optimal weight distribution, is engineered for the fast-paced pursuit of false albacore and bonito Its thick body and short stature enable it to punch through wind and water with ease, allowing for precise and long-distance casts that are crucial when targeting these albies from boat or shore. The jig's high width-to-length ratio not only aids in achieving greater casting distances but also ensures a rapid descent into the feeding zones of false albacore and bonito, making it an effective lure for both casting and retrieving at high speeds. Designed to imitate the small baitfish that these species prey upon, the Heavy Minnow Jig is a musthave for anglers looking to adapt their technique to the fast and frenetic nature of fishing for false albacore and bonito.

Primary Technique: Long Range Casting Speed: Medium and Fast Style: Attractor and Imitator

Sand Eel Jig: The Sand Eel Jig was meticulously crafted to emulate the slender profile and subtle movements of sand eels, which is especially effective for targeting false albacore Available in a range of sizes, the smaller versions of this jig, rigged with single hooks, are particularly suited for the precise and fast-paced fishing techniques required to entice false albacore. These lightweight jigs enable anglers to mimic the darting action of sand eels with precision, offering an irresistible lure to these fast-moving predators.

Primary Technique: Casting Speed: Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Protail Paddle: The Pro Tail Paddle, known for its dynamic paddle tail action that mimics a wide array of baitfish, is particularly popular among anglers targeting false albacore. The 3.5" size emerges as the most favored choice for albie fishing, offering the perfect blend of size and action to closely imitate the small forage fish that false albacore relentlessly pursue. Rigged with a single hook for optimal hook-up ratios and minimal harm to the fish, the 3 5" Pro Tail Paddle is a staple in the arsenal of anglers seeking to match the hatch with precision and efficiency

Primary Technique: Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Hogy Protail Pop N’ Fly

Hogy Epoxy Jig

Hogy Charter Grade Surface Eraser

Hogy Heavy Minnow Jig

Hogy Protail Paddle Swimbait

Hogy Sand Eel Jig

Hogy ‘Chovy Jig

Surface Eraser: The Surface Eraser shines exceptionally in the pursuit of false albacore thanks to its slender, streamlined design that simulates the erratic movements of fleeing baitfish This lure, embodying the essence of versatility, is adept at creating surface commotion and subtle sub-surface disturbances, making it irresistible to the keen-eyed albie. Its ability to be used in various retrieval speeds from slow to fast allows anglers to tailor their approach to the often unpredictable feeding habits of false albacore The Surface Eraser's robust construction and ability to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing ensure it stands up to the explosive strikes albies are known for With its proven track record, the Surface Eraser is a top choice for anglers targeting these fast-moving predators, offering a blend of action and durability that is hard to match Primary Technique: Topwater + Sub Surface Casting Speed: Slow + Medium + Fast Style: Imitator Zone

BASS AND BLUES TROLLING

Hogy Perfect Tubes

Hogy In-Line Trolling Weight

Hogy Charter Grade Slider

Hogy Charter Grade

Swimming Plug - 7"

Hogy Protail Paddle Swimbait

Hogy Charter Grade

Swimming Plug - 5"

Charter Grade Swimming Plugs: These plugs come in two sizes 7" and 5", and they are designed with the versatility and life like action needed to effectively target striped bass through trolling. The 7" version, with its larger profile, is excellent for mimicking substantial baitfish such as menhaden and mackerel, which are often preyed upon by larger stripers On the other hand, the 5" model offers a smaller, more subtle presentation, ideal for simulating the smaller forage that striped bass also frequently target Both sizes have the ability to dive up to 30 feet, allowing anglers to reach stripers at various depths, whether they're feeding near the surface or holding near bottom structures. These swimming plugs' lifelike action and depth versatility make them indispensable tools for trolling and covering water throughout the season

Primary Technique: Trolling Speed: Medium + Fast Style: Imitator

Perfect Tubes & In-line Trolling Weight: A modern take on traditional trolling tubes for striped bass fishing, the Hogy Perfect Tube is a tested and proven design with top shelf components and features not found in any other trolling tube Made with premium latex tubing in a choice of five colors the heart of the Hogy Perfect Tube is a pre-tuned solid stainless steel core designed to give the tubes perfect, slow turning action. Paired with the In-Line trolling weight, these tubes can be fished at carious depths to cater to fish holding higher or lower in the water column Paired with a piece of blood worm, these tubes are a lethal option for targeting striped bass on the troll.

Primary Technique: Trolling Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Imitator

Charter Grade Slider: The Charter Grade Slider is the a great option when large baitfish are dominant forage in the area It imitates large pogy, mackerel and herring, making it a great option when these baits are abundant in a given area Trolled at a medium speed, these lures have a lazy side-to-side wobble that stripers can’t resist.

Primary Technique: Trolling Speed: Slow + Medium Style: Imitator

Protail Paddle: Specifically engineered to mimic a wide range of baitfish, this swimbait is available in sizes and weights conducive to trolling, allowing it to maintain the perfect swimming action at the speeds and depths required to entice striped bass The most popular sizes for trolling are the 5 5" and the 6.5" in various weights based on the water depths that you are fishing.

Primary Technique: Trolling Speed: Variable Style: Imitator

CAPT. MIKE’S INSHORE PLAYBOOK

Cape Cod is a magical place to be an angler. Serving as the nexus between the Southernmost reach of cool crisp Labrador Current and the Northernmost reach of The Gulfstream, the Cape hosts multiple groundfish species like black seabass, scup, fluke and tautog AND just about every highly migratory species worth catching like tuna, stripers, albies and more. Waters aside, Cape Cod also boasts just about every fishing terrain imaginable including crystal clear flats, boulders rips and wide open blue water Pretty much every fishery in the world can be replicated here on Cape Cod in some way.

You are holding in your hand my personal playbook for inshore fishing that I have developed over the years on the water. Many inshore species here Cape Cod behave similarly all along the coast. I deeply believe that the techniques you’ll learn here can be used anywhere around the world.

Thank You for taking the time to check my playbook out Let me know how you did!

POWERED BY

Salty Cape was established in 2012 as a spin off of Hogy Lure Co to serve as a blog for all things fishing on Cape Cod, helping anglers shorten the learning curve to the dozens of micro seasons here from groundfish to tuna. We also like to think there’s a “Cape” in all places "salty" which is why we feel so lucky that we can produce instructional videos for locals here and anglers abroad alike.

CCheers, apt Mike

Hogy Lure Co was founded by Capt Mike Hogan in 2006. Originally based in Capt. Mike’s Basement as a side hustle, Hogy has since evolved into an international saltwater fishing company based around the mission to “simplify fishing” by developing “charter grade” products focused on catching fish, rather than fishermen! We fish hard. Have fun and especially enjoy helping people have a highly productive day playing “hooky”!

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