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When do you go to or need heavier tackle?

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Always Hopeful

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I am interested in understanding when you think going to heavier line and larger reels is required/helpful for party boat fishing for stripers especially in the fall. My experience has been that a 5500-6500 reel with 20 lb test mono is more than adequate. I brought my Jigmaster and TLD 15 both loaded with 30 lb test mono aboard my last trip in case the fish were so large and numerous they were tearing me up with the bait caster. While there were some fish close to 40 lb caught, I did fine with my 6500 and heavy casting rod but I did not hook any of the larger fish.

 

I understand that the spring fishery over the bunker schools would likely call for heavier gear, but even then is it really needed?

 

I much prefer using a lighter outfit especially if I am able to land the fish without going to an outfit that would likely weigh twice as much.

 

Thanks for your thoughts and experience.

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I fish the packed party boats with tuna jigging gear.  Being able to turn a fish on a shoulder to shoulder boat results in less tangles and lost fish/tackle.

Maxel Oceanmax 8 spooled with 75lb Daiwa boat braid.

The rod is a Jersey Jigger

Usually pitching 7-8oz jigs and irons at bunker pods from the pulpit.  

Being able to pitch a heavy jig 60yards from the boat is very helpful sometimes.  A heavier conventional setup will allow you to do this.  

I'm also usually bringing a 7'6" popping stick for tossing plugs and poppers.  





The setup is not heavy from an actual weight standpoint.  It's actually a breeze to hold.  


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Quote:
Originally Posted by Always Hopeful View Post

Capt. Planet,

Your point is to really throw these 7-10 oz spoons and to control fish on a crowded boat, the stronger line and stiffer rods help. The reel though doesn't need to be either large nor heavy.

Am I understanding clearly?

Thanks.





The reel is not heavy if you were to put it on a scale.  It is heavy from a drag perspective.  It's a small, lightweight jigging reel with a lot of drag.  I just dial it down a bit.  

It's 21.75oz.

It's basically a JM PE5


http://www.tackledirect.com/maxel-osl08g-ocean-max-single-speed-lever-drag-jigging-reel-gunsmoke-silver.html

The setup is super overkill for bass, but it has it's merits on a full partyboat.  If I was going on a 6pack or private boat, I would bring something more appropriate.  


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When you need to get fish in faster than what the gear you're using is capable of doing. Especially stressing a catch and release fish for too long.



When line is subject to abrasion.



When your equipment isn't beefy enough to make the presentation of your bait/lure properly. 



When your rod flexes too much for a good hook set, casting weight, or controlling fish.


Generally, I go with gear to handle the biggest fish I might reasonably expect to have a chance at that day.


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