Have a fishing related question? Are you looking for some tips to help you catch more fish?
Whether you’re a beginner or pro we have Captain Mike Roy of Reel Cast Charters here to help you out!
Simply leave a comment below to post your questions and Captain Mike will answer questions on a weekly basis to share his knowledge and experience to get you Hook’d on more fish!
256 thoughts on “Ask a Guide”
Hook'd Fishing Gear Co March 24, 2022 at 1:57 pm
A huge thanks to Captain Mike Roy for answering our viewers questions! He will be back in the fall of 2022 to answer more questions. In the meantime get on the water with Reel Cast Charters and get Hook’d!
Chet March 22, 2022 at 5:53 pm
I fish the beaches on the shore of NJ and sometimes have a hard time hooking up on a decent size fish. Any tips that would make my trips more worthwhile?
Mike March 23, 2022 at 8:58 pm
If you want quality fish live eels in low light conditions and after dark.
Omar March 22, 2022 at 5:44 pm
What are some must have lures for jigging in saltwater?
Mike March 23, 2022 at 9:00 pm
For vertical jigging I would have a Shimano Current Sniper jig and a traditional diamond jig.
If you are casting than a jig head/Fin-S is a must have!
Adam March 22, 2022 at 5:40 pm
I do not have a fish finder yet so I mostly rely on my charts before heading out to find places to fish. What are some things on a chart I should look at to find more fish? I mostly fish inshore on a 19 footer.
Mike March 23, 2022 at 9:01 pm
Checkout Navionics Sonar Charts online. You for areas that have changes in depth, you will see the contour lines stack up tightly. Also look for reefs and rock structure.
James B. March 22, 2022 at 5:31 pm
Do you every fly fish for stripers? Is it hard?
Mike March 23, 2022 at 9:04 pm
Casting, double haul and line management is something you need to practice daily if you want to become proficient at saltwater fly fishing.
Alec March 19, 2022 at 6:03 pm
What’s the best water temp to find big stripers?
Mike March 22, 2022 at 1:27 pm
59 to 72 degrees
David March 19, 2022 at 5:39 pm
Are Scup a good bait to live line for stripers?
Mike March 22, 2022 at 1:28 pm
In order of preference the first choice is bunker
1. Bunker
2. Shad
3. Porgy
Kevin March 19, 2022 at 5:37 pm
Just moved to Florida. Looking for tips on catching Redfish from shore.
Mike March 22, 2022 at 1:30 pm
I do not do a ton of red fishing but there are some good inlets on the east coast where surf casters hook into some nice red fish at night fishing large swimming plugs such as darters and bottle plugs.
Most of the red fishing I have done is with a light jig head 1/16th to 1/4 ounce and a 3 to 4 inch soft plastic split tail or paddle tail.
Kevin March 22, 2022 at 5:41 pm
Thanks!
James E. March 17, 2022 at 3:58 pm
Need help separating fish from shadows and rocks on my fish finder. I am running a Lowrance with side scan. Any tips?
Mike March 17, 2022 at 7:16 pm
There are a lot of variables, but have a look at this video.
https://youtu.be/zDVNZWhXdK8
Marcus March 17, 2022 at 3:53 pm
Being a guide you must have some good stories. What’s your best fish story?
Mike March 22, 2022 at 1:33 pm
That’s a tough one to pick…I once had a 17 year old catch a 55lb striper on his first trip ever striper fishing.
Daryl March 16, 2022 at 7:29 pm
What is your recommended method for spooling up a reel?
Mike March 17, 2022 at 12:30 pm
It’s best to use a line machine. A local tackle shop should be able to do that for you.
Trey March 16, 2022 at 7:21 pm
I am new to circle hooks. What size would you recommend using for live bait targeting stripers?
Mike March 17, 2022 at 12:30 pm
8/0 or 9/0 Mustad perfect circle.
Trey March 17, 2022 at 4:00 pm
Thanks
Edgar March 16, 2022 at 7:19 pm
Rigging up eels at night for striped bass should I use a weight or let it swim freely?
Mike March 17, 2022 at 12:29 pm
Most of the time fish them freely with no weight. If you are 20 feet or more you can add a split shot, egg sinker or small rubber core sinker.
Randy March 16, 2022 at 7:14 pm
What is the best way to freeze fish keeping it tasting fresh throughout the season?
Mike March 17, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Get a vacuum sealer, you can find them for about $100.
Stephen March 15, 2022 at 7:53 pm
How often do you change lines on your reels? I am out once a week for 4-6 hours on saltwater for about 6 months. Any signs to look for aging line? I am using braided line.
Mike March 16, 2022 at 12:09 pm
With braided line you don’t have to worry about changing line like you do with monofilament. I would recommend cutting back a few feet of line and re-tieing your leader on a regular basis You can re-spool when your line gets low on the spool, you will notice a decrease in casting performance.
Stepehen March 16, 2022 at 2:16 pm
Got it. Thanks
Derek March 15, 2022 at 7:51 pm
Do you do any seminars or instructional classes?
Mike March 16, 2022 at 12:06 pm
Yes I will be doing seminars at the Mohegan Sun Fishing Show on March 26 and 27 and at the Essex Boat Show on 5/1.
Trevor March 15, 2022 at 7:50 pm
When walking the dog is it better to have some slack on the retrieve? I am not quite getting a smooth motion on my plugs.
Mike March 16, 2022 at 12:04 pm
Yes you need a little slack after each twitch to allow freedom for the lure to move to the side. Watch this video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay2OJVOkhEo
Trevor March 16, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Great video! Thank you.
Walt B. March 14, 2022 at 7:31 pm
Any good tips on fileting tog? Looking to get out early this year to catch the spring run.
Mike March 15, 2022 at 10:42 am
You need a sharp, flexible fillet knive. I use a 7 inch for tog. I’ll post a video on my YouTube channel.
waltb March 15, 2022 at 7:47 pm
I will keep an eye out for it thanks!
Mike April 4, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Here is the link to my tog filleting video
https://youtu.be/fMalpUdRDO0
Reggie March 14, 2022 at 7:29 pm
Incoming or outgoing tide when fishing for stripers?
Mike March 15, 2022 at 10:41 am
Both are good, it’s spot specific. Some spots fish better on the ebb, others are better on the flood.
Gill March 14, 2022 at 7:28 pm
Do you ever fish Montauk? Any areas where it may be less crowded?
Mike March 15, 2022 at 10:40 am
If you don’t like crowds than I would avoid Montauk! There are plenty of areas to fish down the North and South side.
Jason W. March 14, 2022 at 7:27 pm
Any tips on fishing weed beds for largemouth and smallmouth bass without getting hung up?
Mike March 15, 2022 at 10:39 am
Fish your soft plastics (Senko Worm) with the hook exposed.
Rick March 14, 2022 at 7:26 pm
I mainly fish reefs on my kayak, but it’s hard to stay over them when the tide is flowing. Any suggestions on slowing my drift to stay on the reef and fish a little longer?
Mike March 15, 2022 at 10:38 am
The best way is to use a Minn Kota Trolling Motor. The Legacy Auto pilot will slow your drift down. If you are in a kayak with a foot pedal drive you can simply stem into the current to slow the drift.
Rick March 15, 2022 at 7:48 pm
Thank you
Art March 8, 2022 at 7:40 pm
I read your blog where you mentioned having numerous rods on your boat. What kind of setups do you use to have a different styles of tackle ready to go?
Mike March 10, 2022 at 8:02 pm
Light Spin- Shimano Stradic 4000 with G Loomis GCX 844S F
Medium Heaving Spin- Shimano Saragossa 6000 with G Loomis IMX Pro Blue 844S MF
Conventional- Shimano Tranx 400, Torium 14HG or Trinidad 14 with a Shimano Teramar XX TXNC70H or G Loomis IMX 904C MF
Kevin March 8, 2022 at 7:37 pm
What are your go to knots to use when tying up lures, bait etc?
Mike March 10, 2022 at 7:58 pm
Hey Kevin, Keep an eye on my YouTube channel as I will have some knot videos coming out soon.
I use the Uni knot to tie on terminal gear, Uni to Uni know to tie braid to leader, a loop knot for small lures and flies, and a snell for certain hooks.
Ethan K. March 8, 2022 at 7:36 pm
I am looking for tips on casting a conventional reel strung with braid. I am leery to try and cast it too far because a birds nest with braid can be a day ender. Thank in advance!
Mike March 10, 2022 at 7:56 pm
Look into a Shimano Tranx it uses VBS braking technology to help prevent back lashes. There is a spool tension adjustment and you also need to apply thumb pressure to the spool .
Henry March 7, 2022 at 4:06 pm
What app(s) do you use for weather reports, tides etc?
Mike March 8, 2022 at 2:29 pm
Windfinder and Navionics
Carl March 7, 2022 at 3:22 pm
Have you tried any of the “Live” transducers out there? Are they worth the money? What type of waters would I be able to view fish using one?
Mike March 8, 2022 at 2:29 pm
They are very popular with the freshwater bass fisherman. I have not tried it in Saltwater.
Jay March 7, 2022 at 3:17 pm
Do you wash all your tackle before putting them back in your tackle box? What is the best solution to wash them in?
Mike March 8, 2022 at 2:28 pm
Ideally rinse your lures with freshwater, air dry and then put back in the box. Do not mixed used terminal tackle like hooks with new ones as the rust will transfer onto the new hooks.
Trevor March 7, 2022 at 3:13 pm
Do you notice when marking fish that when the boat goes over them the fish swim deeper?
Mike March 8, 2022 at 2:26 pm
No I do not but in general if we are in 10 feet or less we are marking everything on Side Imaging.
Theo March 6, 2022 at 6:38 pm
When fish aren’t biting on what you’re offering what’s your go to bait/lure?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 1:03 pm
1. Live Bait
2. Cut Bait
3. Weighted Soft plastic
4. Jig-Soft plastic
5. Topwater
Theo March 7, 2022 at 3:03 pm
Thanks!
Kyle March 6, 2022 at 6:37 pm
If I catch mostly schoolie size stripers in a spot are there bigger ones there too or do fish of mostly the same size group together?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 1:01 pm
Typically they stay in similar size schools. If you are fishing for big fish you have to fish big baits and have the discipline to stay away from the schoolies.
Jimmy March 6, 2022 at 6:35 pm
Are overcast days better to fish than sunny days?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 1:00 pm
Yes I prefer to fish an overcast day over a sunny day, especially for topwater.
Alec March 6, 2022 at 6:32 pm
When I jig for fish should I bounce the bottom? If not how far off the bottom should I be?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 12:59 pm
You don’t want to be bouncing bottom with the jig, but occasionally bouncing or dropping back down is fine. You want to stay close to the bottom without constantly hitting and snagging up.
Alec March 7, 2022 at 3:02 pm
That should save some rigs. Thank you for the tip!
Jade R. March 6, 2022 at 6:29 pm
If i’m fishing mostly inshore, what’s the best tide to catch fish? Incoming or outgoing?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Both are productive. Some will say the outgoing is best but there are some spots that fish better on the incoming.
Samuel March 6, 2022 at 6:27 pm
What kind of fish can I expect to catch around wrecks?
Mike March 7, 2022 at 12:55 pm
Black Sea Bass!
Xaiver March 4, 2022 at 7:15 pm
With more boaters out there the past few years do you think the pressure on the fish will cause them to bite less?
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:32 pm
The more pressure on a body of fish the harder to they will be to catch. Some areas have always been crowded while other areas have seen more pressure. Hence why the old timers were tight lipped about what they caught and the locations.
Ed March 4, 2022 at 7:09 pm
How to you determine what spots you are going to fish at when the weather and tides are always changing?
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:29 pm
A lot of this is intuition and the more time on the water the better you will become at this. In general I recommend purchasing the Eldridge Tide and Pilot book or a good tide/current app. Plan your trips to begin with the start of the tide when fishing for gamefish such as striped bass or bluefish. When the current slows use this time to bottom fish for species like sea bass and tog, or fish areas where the current was moving too hard during the peak tide.
Chris March 3, 2022 at 7:31 pm
I was looking over your website to possibly book a trip this year. When do you begin running charters for this year?
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:25 pm
Hi Chris,
We begin running trips for striped bass in mid April.
Gary M. March 3, 2022 at 7:29 pm
Entering my first Bass Tournament at the end of the month. Any tips to stay ahead of the rest of the competition?
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:24 pm
I don’t really do much freshwater bass fishing but a couple tips I have are
1. Do pre-scouting homework using a good detailed chart chip and satellite photos of the lake.
2. Look at the water temperature to determine where the fish will be.
3. Know your electronics and be confident in them.
Jack March 3, 2022 at 7:26 pm
On a typical day of fishing how many types of rod setups should I bring for an all day trip? Mostly fishing inshore saltwater in North Carolina.
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:20 pm
I typically carry several rods depending on what I am fishing for. A typical inshore trip I carry one light spinning rod, one medium heavy spinning rod and two conventional rods for live bait and bottom fishing.
Kevin T. March 3, 2022 at 7:24 pm
I noticed in the picture above that you are running a Humminbird chirp radar. How does that compare to Furuno, Simrad and others?
Mike March 5, 2022 at 10:17 pm
It works well and shows the targets that you need to see for safety. Humminbird is known for the incredible sonar imaging. Their Side Imaging is by far the best.
Frank March 2, 2022 at 7:17 pm
I do mostly shore fishing. Any tips on what to look from land in order to increase my chances on catching more fish?
Mike March 3, 2022 at 1:33 pm
Yes you want to read the water and the beach. This means looking for wave breaks and current seams that show structure such as sand bars, troughs and depth changes. There are many good books written on surf casting as well.
Frank March 3, 2022 at 7:15 pm
Thank you
Terrance March 2, 2022 at 7:14 pm
How important is structure when saltwater fishing? Rocks? Depth changes? Wrecks? What should I look for on my charts before heading out?
Mike March 3, 2022 at 1:29 pm
It’s very important and everything you mentioned is good structure. Find the structure, the bait and fish it on different tide stages and you will find the fish.
Eric J. March 2, 2022 at 7:11 pm
Do you offer any online courses on using Fish Finders to actually find fish rather than watching the screen for something to pop up? I have been to a few seminars, but no one really goes in depth on how to actually use this tool in depth other than typical settings.
Mike March 3, 2022 at 1:26 pm
If you checkout my YouTube page I have a couple videos, I also try to post screen shots from my Humminbird on my Instagram. I’ll work on putting some more videos together. Like all things it’s just time on the water and practice. Checkout these videos
https://youtu.be/v9r6xfAllbA
https://youtu.be/zDVNZWhXdK8
Eric J. March 3, 2022 at 7:16 pm
Will do!
Rob March 1, 2022 at 8:18 pm
As a guide do you actually get to do any fishing?
Mike March 2, 2022 at 6:24 pm
I fish with clients quite often in order to figure out the fish.
Kevin L. March 1, 2022 at 8:18 pm
How do you resist “joining the crowd” when you see a mass of boats catching fish?
Mike March 2, 2022 at 6:22 pm
A lot of t people do follow the crowd. After a while this can get old. If you can learn what to look for and how to locate fish on your own, you will have more success in the long term and in my opinion find more satisfaction.
Hank March 1, 2022 at 8:16 pm
How long do you recommend trying the same spot before moving on?
Mike March 2, 2022 at 6:20 pm
If you are marking fish, seeing bait or birds working than I would stay, if not I would move on.
Wes February 28, 2022 at 4:15 pm
Just picked up an Eldridge book. How do I plan the best times to go out and fish based on the tide charts?
Mike March 1, 2022 at 2:08 pm
There isn’t one right or wrong answer for this and it will depend on where and what you are fishing for. In general if I am fishing for a fish like stripers, ideally I want to start my trip with the start of the tide/current. If I am targeting bottom fish like sea bass or tog I want to fish the slower moving current time about 90 minutes before slack.
Parker T. February 28, 2022 at 4:12 pm
What is a good fish to target at night? Fishing in Florida.
Mike March 1, 2022 at 2:06 pm
Snook are a great fish to target at night. You can also fish for Tarpon at night.
Adrian February 28, 2022 at 4:10 pm
When you use live bunker for bait are you hooking them through the mouth or somewhere else? What is the difference on where to hook them?
Mike March 1, 2022 at 2:05 pm
I always go through the nose because as I am drifting I want to pull the bait naturally head first. Some guys go through the back or anal fin, but you will be dragging the bait side ways or backwards.
Jason February 28, 2022 at 4:09 pm
I want to get my 5 and 7 year old into some fishing this summer. What do you suggest a good freshwater target fish to start with as well as rod/reel combos? Looking for something for them to catch without getting bored too fast.
Mike February 28, 2022 at 4:17 pm
I would suggest starting with something easy such as pan fish (perch, bluegill) or bring them to a stocked pond on opening day. Fishing with meal worms, night crawlers and they should catch plenty. Check in with Andrew over at Fishin Factory 3 in Middletown, CT for setups. Shimano makes entry level setups that would be good for the kids without breaking the bank.
Jason March 1, 2022 at 1:49 pm
Thank you Mike
Jerry February 28, 2022 at 4:03 pm
What is a good line online tackle store to buy from? Looking for a reasonably priced startup spinning reel and rod for bass fishing.
Mike March 1, 2022 at 3:38 pm
I try and support local shops as much as possible. Shimano makes some good entry level combos. If you go to a reputable tackle shop the MSRP on all rods/reels is universal.
Walt February 28, 2022 at 4:01 pm
What size jig head weights do you use on your plastics? I am mostly fishing freshwater, but occasionally fish saltwater too.
Mike March 1, 2022 at 3:35 pm
I use 3/8 to 1 ounce for most of my saltwater/river fishing but if you are fishing freshwater lakes with no current than you will most likely use 1/16 to 1/4 ounce.
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:14 pm
There are many good launching access points throughout LIS and in the rivers. In the springtime all the rivers hold fish and are great places to kayak fish. I would give Black Hall Outfitters a call for more information about kayak fishing.
Nancy February 26, 2022 at 4:40 pm
Looking to get into Kayak fishing this year. Any starter recommendations to stay close to shore and fish?
Henry R. February 26, 2022 at 4:37 pm
What do hold over stripers feed on in the spring?
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:13 pm
Good question! I have seen alewives in the river as early as February. I believe there is some bait that holds in the river all winter and some bait fish that spill over the dams. Once the herring enter the rivers the stripers are feeding on them.
Travon February 26, 2022 at 4:35 pm
I always see plenty of bunker pods swimming freely with nothing under them. Is it worth marking those spots to come back to the next few days? Weeks?
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:09 pm
Anytime you can bait it is always worth fishing that area. If you see bunker out in the sound or ocean it is worth spending time fishing around it. You can tell if the bunker is getting worked by erratic movements and the bait being pushed. Sometimes you will find massive schools of bunker with no predators. In that case it’s best to catch the bait and bring it to another location that has fish.
Alex February 26, 2022 at 4:33 pm
Having trouble catching my own live bait for stripers, will bunker chunking work? Day or Night best?
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:06 pm
Bunker will be slightly easier to catch while it’s dark or at first light or last light. A bunker snagger works great and is easy to use. You can spot them flipping on the surface. If you have good electronics and side imaging you will be able to use that to locate bait. Look around docks and in harbors for them.
Jason K. February 26, 2022 at 4:31 pm
Starting fishing saltwater this year for the first time. What are some essential tools I need starting out?
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:04 pm
Pliers are a must! Line cutters, a fish gripping tool and sunglasses.
Javon February 26, 2022 at 4:30 pm
What are some things I should do before the season starts as far as maintenance on my reel?
Mike February 27, 2022 at 4:02 pm
At the end of the season I always clean my gear and lightly oil the reel. Anything that needs to be serviced I send back to Shimano’s service center. Check your guides on your rods and look for any cracks or chips and replace. Inspect your line and re-spool reels.
Aj February 25, 2022 at 3:07 pm
Any good fluke fishing areas in Long Island Sound?
Mike February 25, 2022 at 7:02 pm
Fluke fishing has been difficult but the sea bass fishing is excellent.
Kevin February 25, 2022 at 3:05 pm
Are bluefish good to eat? Smaller or larger ones taste better?
Mike February 25, 2022 at 7:00 pm
Smaller is generally considered better to eat.
Zach February 25, 2022 at 3:04 pm
Are there any changes to striper regulations this year?
Mike February 25, 2022 at 7:00 pm
They are the same as last year in CT.
Mel February 25, 2022 at 3:02 pm
What are the advantages of using braid line?
Mike February 25, 2022 at 6:59 pm
Thinner diameter, better casting, no stretch, sensitivity and no memory.
Evan February 25, 2022 at 2:49 pm
When a fish swallows a hook at what point is it better to keep it rather than letting it go only to die?
Mike February 25, 2022 at 6:58 pm
Many deep hooked fish can be removed by placing your pliers through the gills, grabbing the hook shaft and rotating you hand 180 degrees. If it can be removed you can cut the line close and the hook will rust out. I’ve caught many fish that had old hooks still in there throat.
Evan February 26, 2022 at 4:29 pm
Great tip! Thanks
Audrey February 24, 2022 at 2:05 pm
Any specific brand of Circle hooks that are better at actually hooking a fish?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Ha! I use the Mustad Perfect Circle 8/0 and 9/0 depending on the size of the bait.
Audrey February 25, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Thank you
Allen February 24, 2022 at 2:04 pm
Do you use any screen overlays to look for structure or depth changes on your charts?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 10:36 pm
Yes I use a Navionics Sonar plus and Humminbird CoastMaster Chip. At times I also use Autochart live which are live recordings that I have taken and can be overlaid.
George February 24, 2022 at 2:03 pm
What is a good navigation map to use on my Garmin or other brand fish finder?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Navionics Sonar Charts or Humminbird Coast Master
George February 25, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Thanks
Seth February 24, 2022 at 1:59 pm
Going to try some jigging for the first time this year. Should I expect the bite on the drop or the retrieve?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 10:30 pm
70 percent of the bites come on the drop.
Stephen D. February 22, 2022 at 8:25 pm
Do you decide where you are going to fish based on the water temperature at all? What other factors do you look at to determine a good fishing spot?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 12:30 pm
Yes I always look at water temp. If you are fishing around a river, bay, sound or anytime a smaller body of water feeds into a larger body of water you will most likely see temperature breaks that will effect the fish. For example in the spring the shallow flats of a river will warm up faster than the ocean water. On the ebb tide the warmer water will push out with the current on a flood tide the cooler ocean water will flood into and up river.
Allen February 22, 2022 at 8:19 pm
When Stripers go after a top water lure do you notice they are hitting on the pause or the twitch?
Mike February 24, 2022 at 12:25 pm
This is something that can vary depending on the fishes aggression level. Often times the fish will boil behind the lure, smack it and then take it on the pause. I just put a video up of how to fish top waters. Check it out.
https://youtu.be/Ay2OJVOkhEo
Terry February 21, 2022 at 6:31 pm
Xtratuff or Grundens ankle boots? Other brand? Looking for a brand that offers wide width.
Mike February 22, 2022 at 2:41 pm
Both will work well. I used Grundens last season as they have more arch support.
Terry February 22, 2022 at 8:17 pm
Thanks!
Anthony R February 21, 2022 at 6:28 pm
What length fluorocarbon should I use when tying to braid?
Mike February 22, 2022 at 2:39 pm
Shorter leader is more manageable and better for casting. A longer leader will give you more protection from break offs. Normally I use 3 to 4 foot leaders.
Sam February 21, 2022 at 6:27 pm
Is there a guide of sorts on how to choose the action and length of a rod?
Mike February 22, 2022 at 2:37 pm
Rod ratings will vary from manufacturer. I like G Loomis because they rate their rod powers by number. So I generally use an 84 4 or an 84 3. The 84 represents the rod length at 84 inches or 7 feet. The number 3 and 4 is the power of the rod. For most of my fishing I like the 3 and 4 power which is equivalent to a medium heavy fast action rod.
7 foot rod length is ideal for most boat fishing.
Kevin February 20, 2022 at 4:51 pm
How do I set my drag properly without a scale?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:34 pm
Over time you can learn to set it by feel. As a general rule it should be tight enough to get a good hook set but not so tight that you can’t pull line off with your hand.
Kevin February 21, 2022 at 6:20 pm
Thanks Mike
Jessie February 20, 2022 at 4:50 pm
What is your common braid to fluorocarbon setup for bigger fish? Smaller fish?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:33 pm
50lb PPSS braid to 60lb Aftco Flourocarbon for larger fish.
15lb PPSS braid to 30lb Aftco Flouro for smaller fish.
Seth February 20, 2022 at 4:48 pm
The old says is “match the hatch” how can you find out what fish are eating if you aren’t catching any to see what they are spitting up? Do you have any tips or seasonal eating habits of saltwater fish to go by?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:32 pm
Match and hatch isn’t always necessary. Many strikes are reaction strikes. As a general rule fish soft plastics in the spring when fish are more finicky and in the fall when they are more aggressive try topwater and metal.
Hank R. February 16, 2022 at 8:15 pm
What are the best color lures to use for fresh and saltwater?
Mike February 18, 2022 at 9:20 pm
In the daytime white is the most consistent. Every bait fish in water has a white or lighter color belly and a darker back. At night I like black or plurple due to the contrast.
Kevin February 16, 2022 at 8:13 pm
When casting into a current what is the best side to cast to?
Mike February 16, 2022 at 10:14 pm
Start by casting perpendicular to the current. Then work different angles slightly up current and slightly down current. You will have to figure out what the best presentation will be depending on wind and current speed.
Wesley February 16, 2022 at 8:10 pm
How can I tell the difference between species of fish I am looking at on my fish finder?
Mike February 18, 2022 at 9:19 pm
You can differentiate between bait fish and game fish based on the size, shape and density of the marks. The location in the water column is an indicator as well ie. striped bass tend to hold in the bottom third of the water column while bluefish are more likely to be in mid water column.
Steve February 16, 2022 at 8:02 pm
What is a good light weight jigging setup for saltwater?
Mike February 20, 2022 at 3:17 pm
It depends on what you intend to do with it, but the Shimano Trevala and Grappler jigging rods. I personally really like my GLoomis IMX Pro blues for jigging sea bass.
Walter P. February 16, 2022 at 7:59 pm
How often and frequently do you return to a known fishing spot that they may not be biting on a particular day?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:37 pm
It varies, logistics are going to be a factor as you can waste lots of time driving around. It’s good to have a couple GoTo spots close to your Marina. If you checked a spot when the boat traffic was high or the tide was slack I would revisit the spot again when the traffic decreases and/or the tide changes.
Ronald February 16, 2022 at 7:57 pm
When locating fish on a fish finder and they are not taking what I am offering, what is the best changes to make? Color? Size? Metal to Plastic? Etc?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:39 pm
1. retrieve change
2. lure type change
3. size change
4. color change
Larry H. February 16, 2022 at 7:55 pm
What is the best way to go about sight fishing?
Mike February 17, 2022 at 11:20 pm
In the NorthEast the sight casting is limited due to water clarity. The best bet is to look for blitzing fish by finding birds working schools of small bait. The best time of year to find top water feeds is generally in September and October.
Mike February 16, 2022 at 7:55 pm
Do you modify your lures at all? If so what type of changes do you make to help attract more fish?
Mike February 17, 2022 at 11:19 pm
Yes I do change and upgrade hooks on a lot of my lures. I do modify my soft plastics. I will be posting some videos to my YouTube Channel.
Jamie February 16, 2022 at 7:50 pm
I have seen some monster striper pics on your Instagram account! Any tips that would help me catch ones like that?
Mike February 16, 2022 at 10:12 pm
Fish live bunker in the daytime or live eels at night. That will draw the largest bass!
Daniel February 16, 2022 at 7:49 pm
Do you have any good Tog, Sea Bass and Striper recipes?
Mike February 16, 2022 at 10:11 pm
Hey Daniel,
Happy to share! Our favorite is a simple lemon panko recipe:
– Season filets with salt, pepper, and paprika
– Whisk two eggs in a bowl. Dip seasoned filets into egg
– Once covered in egg dip in panko
– Cook on each side until golden brown, this is dependent on the size of the filet
– Once cooked remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon on top
Daniel February 18, 2022 at 11:18 pm
Sounds tasty. Thank you
Terry February 15, 2022 at 12:20 am
What are the best times to fish based on moon phases?
Mike February 15, 2022 at 2:32 pm
It varies, but full and new moons will have stronger tides and currents. Fish and bait fish will migrate on the moons.
Terry February 16, 2022 at 8:01 pm
Thanks
Jason February 14, 2022 at 11:25 pm
When stripers are finicky what’s your goto bait or lure?
Mike February 15, 2022 at 2:31 pm
Good live bait is hard to beat. Sometimes I like to scale down and throw a small 4 or 5 inch soft plastic.
Jason February 16, 2022 at 8:02 pm
Any specific colors work best?
Mike February 21, 2022 at 4:56 pm
White or a while belly darker back is always a good choice.
Jason February 21, 2022 at 6:21 pm
Thank you
Marty M. February 13, 2022 at 6:11 pm
What is the best way to store fish to keep them fresh all day on a boat when you don’t have room for a fish cooler?
Mike February 14, 2022 at 2:27 pm
Ideally you need a fish box in the boat or a cooler. If the boat has a livewell you can bleed them and keep them in it. Otherwise a small canyon bag may be a good choice
Marty M. February 14, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Is the fish box or cooler option ok with water or do I need to have them on ice?
Mike February 15, 2022 at 2:30 pm
It’s best with ice. If you will only be out for a couple hours in cool temps then they would be okay in a box without ice.
Greg February 13, 2022 at 6:09 pm
Looking for some rod/reel setup suggestions for light jigging. Mostly for seabass and porgy fishing.
Mike February 14, 2022 at 2:26 pm
I normally use a Shimano Tranx 300 or Torium 14 with a G Loomis IMX pro blue. Shimano makes a lot of good options depending on what your budget is.
Greg February 14, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Thank you
Henry D. February 13, 2022 at 6:05 pm
Is a trolling motor worth the money when fishing in open waters on the ocean?
Mike February 14, 2022 at 2:24 pm
Yes having a Minn Kota Trolling motor gives you total boat control. It gives you the ability to control your drift speed and hold the boat in position.
Roger C. February 13, 2022 at 6:04 pm
Are there any walleye in the CT lakes or rivers?
Mike February 14, 2022 at 2:23 pm
There are Walleye in CT. For more information I would try giving Fishin Factory 3 a call.
Jeff February 13, 2022 at 6:03 pm
When does the striper migration usually hit the long island sound area? Do they come in from the eastern side in open water or the tributaries on the western side?
Mike February 14, 2022 at 2:22 pm
In April the hold over stripers begin to move out from their winter locations. Fish also drop out of the Hudson River and enter the Western LIS. In May stripers begin to flood in from the Ocean and are caught in areas like Plum Gut followed by the Race.
David February 13, 2022 at 5:59 pm
Great video! Thanks
David February 12, 2022 at 12:25 pm
I would like to keep fish once in a while, but not sure the right way to bleed them and filet them. Any tips on how this is done properly?
Mike February 13, 2022 at 2:21 pm
When you first catch them, cut in the gills with a knife to bleed them out. At the end of the video below you can watch me filet some tog.
https://youtu.be/8Cnr3Fb9pMw
Mike February 11, 2022 at 12:58 pm
The uni knot is my favorite
Avery February 10, 2022 at 6:48 pm
When tying your own rigging and lures what are your go to type of knots?
Kevin February 9, 2022 at 8:36 pm
Is there a trick to setting the hook on Tautog? What type of setup do you suggest when using Green or Asian crabs for bait?
Mike February 10, 2022 at 1:57 pm
Both Green and Asian crabs work well. The trick is to let them nibble at the crab and wait until you start to feel them take it. I have a couple tog videos on my YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Cnr3Fb9pMw
Dave T. February 9, 2022 at 8:34 pm
What is the best lure and bait to use at night for Striped Bass? Live Eels good too?
Mike February 10, 2022 at 1:53 pm
Live Eels are great at night. For artificials you cant go wrong with a soft plastic Slug-Go and swimming plugs like a Red Fin.
Jason R. February 8, 2022 at 1:59 pm
Have you ever done any tournaments? Are they hard to qualify to get into?
Mike February 8, 2022 at 9:11 pm
I don’t tournament fish. They are primarily for freshwater bass fishing. There are many local tournaments that you can start doing.
Aaron February 7, 2022 at 6:09 pm
Do you have any information on how I can go about beginning tagging fish? I find it interesting to see how they travel around to and from the Gulf.
Mike February 7, 2022 at 10:40 pm
Checkout https://grayfishtagresearch.org/
Aaron February 8, 2022 at 1:55 pm
Thank you
Mitch Ruckner February 7, 2022 at 5:10 pm
Can you explain a little about transducer frequencies (200khz vs 800khz). Which is best in what scenario. Driving the Boat vs. Floating over spots etc.
Mike February 7, 2022 at 10:40 pm
200KHZ or High Chirp is traditional 2D sonar. This is a wider beam than the Down Imaging or 800KHZ frequency. The DI will provide clearer imagery and have less bottom coverage and will work best up to about 7 mph. 2D sonar will provide a larger coverage area and will hold bottom (with the proper transducer) even at higher speeds.
Mitch Ruckner February 8, 2022 at 1:58 pm
Thanks, how about cruising speed frequency? What is the fastest you can scan at when travelling over an area at what frequency?
Mike February 8, 2022 at 9:10 pm
DI will only read up to about 7mph. 2D you will read up while on plane if you have the transducer mounted correctly.
Mitch Ruckner February 9, 2022 at 8:31 pm
Got it. Thanks
Jake R. February 6, 2022 at 9:06 pm
What is an ideal setup (rod, reel, line etc) for catching big stripers like you have on your page?
Mike February 6, 2022 at 11:53 pm
Gloomis IMX Pro Blue 844S MF
Shimano Saragosa 6000
Power Pro SSV2 40lb or 50lb
Paul Lombardi February 5, 2022 at 11:05 pm
What’s a safe size boat to fish around Long Island Sound to reach both sides in halfway decent waves?
Mike February 6, 2022 at 12:22 am
It really depends on two factors wind and tide. If you have wind against tide the sound can become very rough. A 20 foot center console is good.
Paul Lombardi February 6, 2022 at 9:04 pm
Thanks
Andy T. February 5, 2022 at 7:01 pm
Strictly speaking about Bass Fishing. When marking fish with waypoints do you find they are there again throughout the season or do they move around a bit? Do they stay in the vicinity more or less?
Mike February 6, 2022 at 12:21 am
They move around throughout the season. They may hold in the same area until a condition change such as water temperate increase or decrease, storm or moon.
Alan Matucci February 5, 2022 at 2:25 am
Any tips on getting started in ice fishing on local lakes? The winter down time gets longer and longer.
Mike February 5, 2022 at 10:36 am
I don’t do any ice fishing. Try giving one of the local shops a call for more information.
Mark February 4, 2022 at 3:09 pm
When rigging up live bait (Bunker) for Striped Bass should I use a weight or simply free line on a hook? Also what is the best place to hook them through to let them swim freely and attract Stripers?
Mike February 5, 2022 at 10:24 am
It depends on the depth, generally if it’s 15 feet or less let them free swim, greater than 15 feet use a weight and keep them within 5 feet of the bottom.
Travis February 3, 2022 at 3:12 pm
What is your recommendation when it comes to electronics such as fish finders, type of transducers and such for someone mainly fishing freshwater that won’t break the bank?
Mike February 3, 2022 at 3:33 pm
I recommend checking out a Humminbird Helix. Their Side Imaging is the best in the industry and you will be able to use it to locate fish and areas to fish.
Travis February 3, 2022 at 9:32 pm
Thanks!
Jonathon H. February 2, 2022 at 6:58 pm
Long time freshwater fisherman looking to hit the saltwater this year. Do you have any tips on the best time to fish in regards to the tide, time of day, depths and so forth? Mostly targeting Black Sea Bass, Striped Bass and Tautog.
Mike February 3, 2022 at 3:31 pm
For striped bass I suggest starting early in the morning or later in the evening and timing your trip with the start of the tide.
For Black Sea Bass and Tog the time of day does not matter. I would suggest fishing the periods around slack tide when the current is not running as hard.
Mike Warren February 2, 2022 at 2:23 pm
What is the best size cast net to start with? I heard that larger ones are easier to throw, is that true?
Mike February 2, 2022 at 4:39 pm
I would learn with a 10 footer. You will learn proper technique for throwing and it’s the most commonly used size.
Mike Warren February 2, 2022 at 6:55 pm
Thanks!
Steve Aragon February 1, 2022 at 8:11 pm
How do I become a Fishing Guide? What courses are involved?
Mike February 1, 2022 at 8:29 pm
You can start by getting a Captains (OUPV) license.
Steve Aragon February 4, 2022 at 3:06 pm
Thank you
John Severino February 1, 2022 at 4:23 pm
Any tips on lake fishing for a newbie targeting smallmouth bass, perch and largemouth bass? Looking for best lures to throw.
Mike February 1, 2022 at 8:36 pm
For bass a Texas Rigged Senko Worm is tried and true. Soft plastic Jerk baits are also one of my favorites.
John Severino February 2, 2022 at 2:20 pm
Thank you!
Paul C. February 1, 2022 at 3:54 pm
With the slot limit and use of circle hooks for striped bass do you expect to see more stripers this year?
Mike February 1, 2022 at 8:32 pm
The slot limit will reduce the overall harvest by recreational anglers which should help. The population varies depending on location. Luckily where we fish in Long Island Sound we have seen an abundant population.