There are basically two different ways to fish with light tackle. By light tackle, I mean either a spinning or casting reel with 8-14 lb test line, and a rod in the same class category. The first way is to use a cork to suspend a bait in the water column. This is done by attaching a cork above a 2'-3' leader, the length depends on the water depth along with personal preference. How to make the leader; You will need one swivel, one hook, and one length of monofiliment (leader line), around 2'-3' long. Tie one end of the swivel to the mono (leader line) using an Improved Clinch Knot, and tie the hook to the other end using the same knot. Now, you are ready to connect your leader to your main line. Using the same knot, tie the line to the swivel. Now all that is left is to attach your cork. I prefer an Alameda Rattling cork, but it is just a matter of preference. To determine the height above your line that the cork should be placed at I like to take the depth of water that I will be fishing in and divide it by two. This way my bait will be suspended half way up, or down, in the water. This method is a better choice when you are fishing in shallow areas, in areas of soft mud, lots of grass on the bottom, or when you are fishing over a shell bottom
The next way is to use the same type leader that was mentioned above and instead of a cork, attack a 1/2 oz to 1 oz slip weight above the leader. This method is best for fishing in the surf, on hard bottoms, or when you are in deep water.
Any type of live bait can be used for both of these methods. Live shrimp are usually plentiful at local bait shops, as are pin perch or piggy perch. Live finger mullet, mud minnows, killy fish, and small crabs work well also. If you are specifically targeting larger trout, then live croaker are your best bet. While hard to come by, they are "candy" for trout. Bait can either be bought at any of the local bait shops, or you can catch it yourself using a cast net, sein net, etc.
|