How to catch halibit!!

[Mead_Stripers]

Unfortunately, I'm not well versed in the "names" for all the different types of rigs. However, I typically use a weight that is 2 to 4 ounces with a hole in it. I put my main line (I recommend at least 15 lb test) through the hole in the weight and tie it to one of those double-sided metal connectors. Then I tie stronger line (20-25 lb test) to the other side of the metal connector. The line should be about 12 inches long between the metal connector and your hook. Use a No. 2 hook, at a minimum. Put the hook through the sardine or anchovies nostrils right above it's mouth. This is the easiest way to hook up live bait. You can also do it through the bottom half of the body but it gets tricky and I find that they won't stay alive as long. When going after halibut, drop the line all the way till you hit the floor, then reel it in a couple feet so that your hook and bait do not get caught in the rocks. Lots of rocks in that area and you always have to check out the depth by dropping your line and reeling it back in.

The key to catching Halibut or any other fish for that matter at Dana Point is to go fishing right before sunrise. Prime fishing time is between sunrise until 10:00 maybe 11:00. After that, you're not going to catch anything. Watch the tide, too. You want high tide if you're fishing the getty. Also, you're probably going to land all sorts of fish besides Halibut so be careful. Some may be poisonous. In those situations, I just cut the line rather than get poked by one its spikes.

Well, good luck, and let me know how you do.

Best regards,

Paul
[signature]