How To: Combo Trip | Jig Seabass | Topwater Stripers
Introduction
Fishing enthusiasts, whether beginners or experts, can benefit from understanding the techniques and practices highlighted in the “Salty TV 2024: Combo Trip Jig Seabass & Topwater Stripers” video. Captain Mike from Salty Cape takes viewers through a comprehensive fishing trip, sharing valuable insights on catching seabass and striped bass using various methods.
Preparing for the Trip
Captain Mike starts the trip with a late start on a beautiful June day, heading out from Falmouth Harbor with a mix of anglers ranging from no fishing experience to expert levels. He emphasizes the importance of preparing the right gear, consolidated into a single mesh crate with four casting rods and a couple of troll rods.
Strategy for the Day
Due to the slack tide, the plan is to start with seabass fishing, which is more forgiving in such conditions, and switch to topwater striper fishing once the tide gets moving. Captain Mike explains that moving current is crucial for effective fishing, whether the tide is rising or falling.
Using the Hogy System
Captain Mike introduces the Hogy groundfish beaky jig, a versatile jig designed for bottom fishing with crabs for tatag, but also effective for seabass without any bait. The jig features beaky hair and crystal flash, adding extra motion and flash to attract fish. The Hogy system allows for easy switching between different lures and rigs, making it a practical choice for varied fishing conditions.
Seabass Fishing Techniques
Captain Mike demonstrates how to use the beaky jig for seabass, explaining that seabass are attracted to the jig’s crab-like appearance and motion. He emphasizes the importance of finding good structure and using the right gear, such as a medium-light rod with a parabolic action, to handle the fish effectively.
Handling the Catch
Once a seabass is caught, Captain Mike shows how to handle the fish, emphasizing the importance of not hanging the fish by its lip to prevent damage. He also explains how to measure and clean the fish, preparing it for dinner.
Switching to Topwater Stripers
As the tide starts moving, the focus shifts to topwater striped bass fishing. Captain Mike uses the Hogy charter grade popper in amber color, which mimics squid, a favorite prey for striped bass. He advises removing the back hook for catch and release to reduce injuries to the fish and adds a flag to the lure for extra action and attraction.
Techniques for Striper Fishing
Captain Mike shares his technique for rip fishing, where he casts into the smooth water and lets the lure swing into the rip, increasing the chances of a successful catch. He explains that the bigger fish are often found in front of the rip, chasing larger squid.
Conservation and Citizen Science
Throughout the trip, Captain Mike emphasizes the importance of conservation and participating in citizen science projects. By logging the details of each catch, including hook placement, fight time, and time out of water, anglers can contribute valuable data to studies on the survivability of catch and release fish.
Conclusion
The fishing trip ends with a successful catch of seabass and striped bass, demonstrating the effectiveness of the techniques and gear used. Captain Mike encourages anglers to document their catches and participate in conservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of fish populations.
Chapters and Timestamps
- Introduction to the Trip
- Preparing for the Trip
- Strategy for the Day
- Using the Hogy System
- Seabass Fishing Techniques
- Handling the Catch
- Switching to Topwater Stripers
- Techniques for Striper Fishing
- Conservation and Citizen Science
- Conclusion
By following these practices and techniques, anglers can enjoy a successful and sustainable fishing experience, ensuring the health and longevity of fish populations for future generations.
