[BT]

Bring a sabiki down to OB pier and tip it with squid and you should do ok.

Two things to consider is you need to get the bug to your nets, and then keep them there. So first you need scent and then the hardier the bait you have the better. Bugs will tear apart mackeral before a salmon head because the salmon heads are more work. I prefer fresh bait, and wont go more than two trips with the same bait, and I always top off with fresh bait. If you do get macks, remember that the smaller ones can get pulled out of the bait cages by the bugs and the bug may leave the net with the food.

I like to get the big macks at squidco, cut them up in large disc sized and fill up the cages with that and some salmon head pieces. I also will bring a sabiki and a couple pieces of squid out with me to try and make bait if it shows up. Free bait is good bait.

As far as chicken goes, I have used old spoiled wild duck that a friend gave me. I filled gaps in the cages with it. Duck is oily, and the bugs were eating that alot, more than the macks. I have also tried pork and that seemed a little to hard for them to eat. I know people who have used chicken as a filler in their cages, but I dont think if you used just chicken you would have better success than fish.

I experimented with alot of different baits and techniques this year, and hands down (besides the duck), macks and slamon heads get eaten. One thing to look for when you drop your nets is if there is an oilly slick coming off the bait. If it still slicks, it is still good.