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Posted by jas on 08:38:50 08/19/03
In Reply to: Ling Cod Rig? posted by Davey jones
: Wondering what you guys are using when you target Lings? The lings here in Trindad range from 25lbs and less.
It's no secret that vertical jigging plastics is extremely effective on Lings. I use Fish Trap swimbaits 4" on up. I usually bring a bunch of lead heads ranging from 3/4 - 2 oz (I'm usually using 1.5 unless the wind and current is strong).
Pull up to the edge of some kelp and drop it down to the bottom. Start slowly but deliberately jigging your lure up off of the bottom. You can yo yo, bounce the plastic on the bottom while you're drifting around the outside. Though personally, I've had the best success vertical jigging whether I'm in a slow drift on the outside or I'm sitting still dropping it down the edge of a stringer.
If the water has bad vis and you're not hooking up, throw a strip of squid on there. Even a whole squid, though your lure won't swim worth a darn, will sometimes stir up a bite from a Ling and even a Cabezon when the action is slow.
Your drag setting is crucial. These fish are strong so you don't want the drag locked down. On the other hand, you need to keep them from breaking you off in the kelp. I set the drag so they can take a small (very brief) initial run after the hookset. Try your best to turn them away from the direction of the closest kelp. They may want to run again towards or at the top.
A heavy bass set up is my favorite way to go. Baitcaster with 15-20lb line has worked for me.
Bring alot of lead heads and plastic baits. I'm a huge scampi fan but have had more personal success using swim baits.
jas
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