Advice?

[gary sullivan]

Originally Posted by janines.fishtales@cox.net

Sooooo much great info. I need to start practicing my knots! Keep the info coming gents. I love it and I am learning lots! I am learning that a lot of the stuff I already do is a lot what you all are suggesting. I like the idea of not using the green braid and I will look for white. I was thinking I would just put a whole 25 yard spool of flouro on top of my braid (so I don't have to keep tying splicing knots?) but most of you are suggesting short top shots.... hmmm. I like that someone suggested not overlooking the good ole mustad hook. Last year I went out on an overnighter on the Penetrator. Capt Clay called the owners and gamakatsu's "gucci" hooks and he used only mustad! I do see the benefit of good hooks though. A two speed reel huh? I was thinking about that but $$$! How much would one of those set me back?

Thanks again,

Janine

I keep the top-shot to 4-5 feet for several reasons. The uni to uni knot doesn't go through the guides, and I have less weight from the line which allows the bait to swim away faster. Usually abrasion occurs within six inches from the hook, so I can retie my Mustad Big Game hook multiple times. The only time a long top-shot is a must is when the seas are choppy and the boat is heaving up and down a lot. The stretch afforded by the mono fluorocarbon combo prevents pulled hooks and broken lines.
Most long range boats have 2 speed reels at your disposal for next to nothing or no cost. When you shell out several thousand dollars they aren't going to nickel and dime you, they want you as a happy return customer. Have a 2-speed available to use if you're in an area where the 60# plus tuna start showing up. Good luck out there.