question and intelligent responses.

There is so much BS on line these days you can't tell who's telling the truth and who isn't and why (of course it's easy to be a hreo on line), you never know who's trying to sell what etc., so I thought I would start a discussion about shorebound bass fishing. ( A discussion on fishing? What a novel idea!)

What I want to know is:

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?

For myself, I fish both conventional and spinning. Spinning from the beach and conventional for the canal mostly. I fish mostly sand but in the last several years have taken the majority of my biggest fish from a rocky island shore ( Except for last Saturday in the wee hours I managed a good one from an udl in Truro)
I find that I have shyed away from custom sticks having found a line of ready made rods that I really like that being Loomis (3)and also a few St. Croix Tidemasters (2). Conventional wise nothing yet has been able to top my two JK Fisher conventional sticks for the canal.
I prefer spinning rods at 9' feet to 9'-6". The JKF's are 9 and 10 respectively.
My reels choices are upper end Shimano and Quantum Cabo's.
I have not fished a live or dead bait in years, I like the challenge of being a plug only fisherman, not as productive but there have been times.
Good waders and especially a good wading jacket ot dry top is most important gear wise and my lucky beat to snot gross looking OTW fishing hat.
For time of year definetly the fall.
I used to stress over big fish. No more I just enjoy being able to be a part of it all now. I do like outfishing Numbskull though.
Lately I have had that feeling several times, I don't know if it's age or just how many timkes can you do something before it gets to be a mindless routine. ( Thank God for Albies and flyrods)

Now what do you think?

1. Rocks... I fish RI 'nuff said.
2. Currently fishing a 8'10" Batson su1088 I rolled myself. I like the size and the backbone. Great for everthing but eels, which I use it for anyway.
3. VS200 - I do ZERO maintanance and beat the piss out of it (see 1 above)
4. Roll my own plugs, plug 60% of the time, using allot of rubber, eel maybe 40% of the time.
5. Required gear? waders, surftop, light, kokers or equivalent.
6. Summer has been the best for the past 2 years, this year it blew.
7. Currently Big Bass are my goal.
8. Been at it 15 years, but only get out 2x a week, so it never gets old for me.

Sounds good, here is my take.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
Mostly rocky, points, boulders, bars. Why - concentrated fish, deep water access.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
9ft - gets me the distance I need, never felt the need for more.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
I have a mix, of all of the above. Lately I have been picking up off the shelf St Croix's as a matter of conveniece.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
Spinning - VS 200, Shimano Spheros 4000
Casting - Calcutta 401
Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
I prefer eels, then sluggos, then jigs, and then plugs. I am not a confident plug user,

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
I dont know about gear for fishing, but charts of the water I fish, day time scouting and knowledge of currents and holes are key components to success.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Still searching for the big one......

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
I would have given up long ago if it was about big fish. I enjoy the time on the water and the quest itself.
Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
nope

80% rocks (90% of that same spot)
10% sand
10% Inlets/Breachways

1201M with VS250 or 1213Conven w/ Newell 229. both with 20lb mono

Eels, jigs or plugs (skin plugs).. rubber craze has eluded me somewhat so far...

KORKERS = Essential

Love it no matter what. caught a lot of boat bass, and still love tuna and bottom fish in a boat, but nothing compares to the surf for me, 10 years in as a majority surfcaster and I love it....

On the quest for a 40, I dont mind coming home empty..... beats sitting on the couch whether you caught or not!

Seeing the cape is what it is I fish all rocks now, including the canal. I primarily fish from shore as my boat days are done until my kids grow up a little.
Newell 229 for canal. 65# power pro for line.
Saltiga Z4500 for surf w/50# power pro.
I build all of my own rods. I have a Ron Arra 1205 and all star 1209 conventional for the canal.Ron Arra 1205 rod tied up as a spinner for the surf.
I am pretty much an eel fisherman, except for the spring when I throw storms/tsunamis. Artificials are bogus to me for the most part, although I always carry a couple for special situations.
I would rather go fishless for weeks on end and target big fish, as opposed to taking what's available. Being skunked is no problem for me as hunting the biggest fish involves a lot of skunkings. Although I don't always get them, my target is 30# or bigger.
Time of year is last two weeks of May, and last week of September/first week of October.
I'm not sick of it yet after 25 seasons. I’m looking forward to my sons joining me some day.
Essential gear? My head lamp, the %$%$%$%$ing rocks can kill you.

Being good at BS'ing makes you a better fisherman. Sad but true.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
Combination of both but mostly rocky. When I fish sand like the cape it all looks the same to me but the main reason I fish rocks is that they are what is close to me.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
10 foot because I do feel like it gives me a little more power and allows for further casts. I'll use a 9 foot rod when I don't think casting distance matters and I'm more concerned with control.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
I buy custom usually but I'm not against ready made rods as long as they meet my needs. I'm hopelessly addicted to Lamiglass gsb series because they are not too moderate but are soft enough to throw an eel or work a pencil popper the way I like too.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
I don't know if I'd still be fishing if I didn't have Van Staals. I've hacked up other reels pretty good from ware and tare, but mostly from just taking poor care of them. I prefer the vs250 but also use a vs200 and 150. I'm going to get a calcutta pretty soon and plan on learning to cast conventiol over the winter.

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
I'm really into eels right now but I'd say I fish close to 50/50. Eels and plugs. I love needlefish. I'm a commercial label hound and I like Hab's and Afterhours.

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
A good plug bag, well tied leaders, coastlock snaps, vmc hooks(trebles), live bait hooks for eels, braided line, skinz gloves, wet suit, waders and seperate wading boots, good surf belt w/ lanyard and pliers, water bottle holder, inexpensive head lamp and back up light on belt, grundens tops, one good dry top.

I'm into gear.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Different every year. Last year August was a wash for me. This year I had the best fishing I've ever had.

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
I appreciate just being able to fish. I lost too really good fish one night this summer and I felt I really worked for them. Working through my plug rotation etc. and changing how I was fishing them. I ended up with a skunk but I've never been so fired up to fish again.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
If I did there would have to be something wrong with me. I'm only 29.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why? Rocks mostly, very occasionally the sand. I fish the rocks because it is usually less crowded.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?9' easier to carry around....I am looking into going up to a 10' to see if I can get that few extra feet I always think I need to reach the fish :D

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands? I have made 1 rod, enjoyed it but not my thing, I'll be going Custom from here on out

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning? Spinning, Shimano Stradic.....but am starting to consider a VS (Sorry:D)

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?My Favorite way is to Plug....But I have no problem throwing eels or chunks if that is going to work

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful? Terminal Tackle, and a Decent Plug bag...and some Korkers

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one? Early Summer seems to be the best for me...up until this year :rolleyes:

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make the effort worth it? MUST.......HAVE......LARGE, thats when I am the happiest

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime? Nope....Just been doing it for 5 years so its still fresh for me trying to figure things out

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?

I fish sand, rocky island coastline, and creep around lights on docks in bays at night. I can't say that I've even approached being knowledgeable about any of them, mainly because with all the moving around I've been doing I haven't been able to settle into any kind of groove.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?

A nine foot rod seems to be in my hands most of the time. I haven't met the fish yet that made me feel like I was holding a limp 9ft. noodle, and I don't want to cheat myself out of the experience of being outgunned. Go ahead, strip my reel, see if I don't make a half-decent fish story out of it.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?

I roll my own rods which has led to the spawning of an ever growing family of rods for specialty applications. I prefer lamiglas, but will never be above snarfing up a sheaf of blems at a show and building on those.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?

I've been putting two penn slammers (560 and 460), a small shimano spheros, and a penn 706Z to work, with a host of Penns and DAM Quicks in reserve. Spinning only, all spooled up with fireline.

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?

Plugs.

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?

The right shoes for the plan of the day, raingear/ waders when appropriate, and a functional pair of pliers.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

My 2 best fish have come in September, although that hasn't stopped me from believing that November is my ticket to ride.

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?

I am satisfied as long as every once in a while something happens that reminds me why I starting doing this in the first place.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?

Not yet, but I haven't been at it even close to long enough to throw in the towel and my time on the water has been episodic - 3 years, 2 years off doing a job somewhere away from the water, 1 year on, one year off...

Not that I surf fish much anymore (much rather boat fish) but I have a few years under my belt.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why? Rocks, love the challenge of muscling a 40 out of a bolder field. Sand is for sissy's.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
I like a 10' rod with backbone. Anything under IMO is too short for fishing boulder fields, need to get that line up high to keep a cow from pulling you in the rocks and breaking you off. Anything over 10' is too awkward to me and unessesary.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands? I wrap my own. I prefer Lami.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
VS period, I'm a cheap basturd and even I smartened up and got one for the surf. I like Spheres second. My reel is underwater 50% of the time when I fish though.

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly? Eels for big girls, plugs if I'm messing with dinks or feeling bored.

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful? Korkers if u want to stay alive.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one? Spring

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make the effort worth it? If I didn't get at least a 30, it just wasn't worth it.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime? yup, got old, enjoy boat fishing much more.

where: the RI ROCKS BABY
set up: 9' st. croix triumph, Diawa BG60 w/ 30lb PP
gear- waders, plug bag, light, korkers, top.
bait- plugs and softies. eel occasionally.
getting old: you cant get tired of an addiciton. wether im catchin cows, or getting skunked i just love the surf.

RI mostly Rocks
10ft Tsunami airwave and an Okuma bail-less Spinning reel 50lb PP
Plug bag,light,lip grip,need corkers
Earliest I get out is 4am latest I stay out is 11pm-any fish makes me happy
I will never quit from the surf.Look at the Striper cup leaders all surf legends.

What I want to know is:

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?

I fish the Canal, because I live within walking distance, and it's a love affair. I will fish other places. Sand/rocks makes no difference when I travel

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?

I've found that 10' is the best all-around rod length for me. I'm 6'2" and about 225 so I can handle a long rod fine, and to me 10' seems to be the perfect compromise and not too cumbersome when I have tight casting room behind me.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?

Most of my rods were custom made. I'm starting to appreciate how much better ready-made brands are getting. Reel seat placement is still my biggest gripe with factory rods

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?

I'm using spinning reels more and more. Much easier, and braid has made distance a wash.I really like the mid and upper end Daiwas. My favorite conventional is still the Newell P-229F for mono, the P-220F for braid.

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?

75% jigging, 25% plugs. I've chunked once in the last 10 years. The last time I fished eels was in October 2001 on MV

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?

A neck light, a file and some pliers. Fanny pack to hold a box of swivels, some leader material, and a handful of jigs. A bike is nice but not essential

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Late May onwards. I've caught large bass every month of the season. Late August has been especially good to me.

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?

I'm grateful for a wife that was willing to pack up everything and move to the Cape, without either of us having a firm job prospects, and who basically lets me go out for a few hours anytime I want. Catching anything is gravy

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?

No.



my answers

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?

Rocks, just like it more

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?

10' for eels and large plugs, 9' for sluggos and the smaller stuff

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?

custom lami

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?

spinning

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?

I prefer plugs but also like eels - though I get sick of fishing them if I fish them alot

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?

Quality line and terminal tackle, good selection of the basic plugs in basic colors (black, yellow, white)

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Mid to late august

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?

Almost always feel satisfied unless I just feel like I didn't have it that night.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?

No, but my wife does

Rocks. Sand makes me feel small.
10ft KF/Newell 235 for years, until this year I got fancy and now use a 1205 with a Calcutta TE. Very nice, but I cry when I dunk it and feel like I'm cheatin' when I cast.
Build your own rods (or pay someone to do it), you can end up with much better components and a tool that fits you.
Plugs make the sport. Wood is the way to go. I fish my own or friend's stuff 95% of the time.
I've found stocking foot waders and good studded wading boots really make the night more enjoyable. Bug repellant is crucial, too.
Time of year isn't as important as phase of moon. Late October, when everyone else is gone and you know each trip will be cherished is the best time.
Feeling that I have a chance at a good fish is all I need.
I'm done trying different pastimes, this one works best for me.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?

Rock, mostly until the beaches open up (9/15), there’s something about having a pod of fish to yourself on an open beach that makes me smile.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?

Plugging 10’ I get a decent cast, light rod not a lot of room for a back cast.

Recently acquired a allstar 1208 with a 6 inch extension that is outstanding for slinging eels (live) why: tons of backbone, super soft gentle tip.

10wt 10’ I like to try my luck during worm spawns.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?

Custom. Do my own repairs
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?

conv. Abu 7000
spin. Nautil 7500
conv. avet sx
spin. vs300b
con. Abu 6500


Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?

Plugs 60% eels 40%

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?

traction
vision
time

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Spring.

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make the effort worth it?

Have been getting a steady stream of bass all season with many in the teens and mid to high twenty pounds. Ready for something a bit bigger for the amount of time spent. Not complaining, just biding my time I guess.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?

Never.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
rocky coastline. more productive for me than sand

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
i'll use a 9 foot in the spring and early summer because i usually catch smaller fish and throw smaller plugs. switch to a 10 foot late summer and fall to throw bigger plugs and catch bigger fish.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
i'm cheap and usually buy all my rods used from a friend. he buy's a lot of stuff so they're not totally beat to hell when i get em.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
again referring to bass on a budget. i've been fishing the shimano spheros 8000 for 3 years i think. 4000 for schoolies.

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
plugs almost always. last year i got my biggest fish on eels. this year my biggest has been caught on needlefish.

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
waders, drytop, head lamp, good arsenal of plugs, lots of leaders, pliers, the d ring rod holder that fits on the wading belt. try to be as simple as possible.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
late august

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
i just like being out on the water, being alone or at least with a fishing buddy, and being away from work. whatever the result, i feel like i learn something new every time i head out. that's what i appreciate most.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
i've got too many hobbies right now. i'm trying to invest more time into fishing. i'll never give up fishing though.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
jetties and sand beaches adjacent to jetty inlets 90% of the time.Because these places usually hold biggest concentration of the fish
What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
1321m lami most of the time, 7 foot St.Croix when chasing a weakfish and a 1201m conventional occasionally for eel skin plugs
Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
Have em made.No desire to do this
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
No seat.Taped on vs250 Conventional ,half a seat abu 7000
Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
last year or so only plugs or eel skin plugs........but ,if I feel like that is what fish want ,I am not ashamed of the chunk or an eel
What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
flashlight and a lucky hat:btu:
What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
October until about a two years when June became better
Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
Anything that shakes my rod brings a smile to my face
Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
No

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
- I generally always think rocks over sand (85%). South of Delaware bay, stripers are called rockfish, so there is my logic. Nonetheless, I have caught large fish on the sand with clams.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
-I have 7 rods, all between 7 feet and 13 feet. Generally, if I fish a beach, where I need max. distance I go with my 12 footer. For a pier or wharf or any other relatively easily accessible deep water, anything longer than 8 feet for me is just unneccessary.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
- I have one custom-made 10 footer, it is by far my favorite and it casts smoother than triple-distilled gin. I do, however, purchase ready made.

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
- I have both, but for the most part I go with spinning. I have several Okumas, I don't know the model numbers off top (im at work).

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
I chunk 80% of the time, I fish mostly North of Cape Cod so I use a lot of mackeral. I use eels on payday. The gear, depends on the location, waders, plugs, jigs, lamp, bridge net, pvc pipe sections, knife, pliers, etc . I have several spots, each requires different equipment. But the most universal tool in my arsenal is patience. I have no problems fishing 12 hrs straight.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
Mid to Late september

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
Just being out there in the middle of the night or watching the sunrise is fullfilling for me. Its like therapy.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
After this dismal summer, I thought long and hard, I even contemplated buying a Playstation 3, but actually landing a keeper or for that matter, anything (except dogfish and skate) makes it all worth it. And besides, the season is just getting started.

[
Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
Rocks, since I live so far from the salt it's hard for me to count on a spot in the sand being good the next year.
What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
10 foot St Croix, cause I like big wood
Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
Buy them
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning? 704Z
Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
Plugs
What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful? A light is my response, I just assumed waders and a good surfcoat were required.
What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one? Fall, but I have 5 states in my locale. It can be a cruel time of year.
Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it? As long as I catch bigger fish than my brother, well maybe even if I don't.
Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime? Not yet and I've been fishing for over 50 years.

Knowing that I can't aways catch the "fish of a lifetime" I made it a point (and I tell it to ANYONE that says "good luck") of saythe following: "If catch only one fish for the night, then I've been successful. "
Sure, I love when they are biting to beat the band, or during that October massacre time of year, but that isn't a requirement.
I like it better when someone I'm introducing to the sport does better than me. I love watching their expression when they understand why I am a fishaholic.
It's not just the chance to catch a monster, but the chance to get outside and relax (mentally) for a few hours.

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
Sand....I just like it.

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
9-10' because I find this size range the most comfortable to cast with.I have both custom and ready made but definately reach for the custom first. I dont make my own because I have no clue!!

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
Spinning and shimano

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
I fish mostly these days with my hubby and he looses interest in casting after a while.. so I mostly baitfish with a little lure or eel action on the side to satisfy the urge.

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
An array of basics lures and the time.

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
I still dont have the big one but Sept. has always always been the best for me.

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
I am usually happy if I didnt get the complete skunkola. Anything else is just icing on the cake. When I am not catching I think back to the times in the office when I say to myself "what I wouldnt give to be on the beach right now....even if theres no fish"!!!

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
Yep. I went through the phase where I had to fish five nights a week from spring to fall. I would get to the salt whenever I could and freshwater locally after work all the time. I wanted to be the best but realized one day I wasnt and probably never would be ......I truly believe some people are naturally good at it and some will always be mediocre no matter how hard they try. the past few years have left me with very little time to fish but the good thing is it kind of taught me to enjoy it again. I think when I was going 5 times a week I forgot to enjoy just being there.

[QUOTE=Flaptail;520765]

What I want to know is:

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
rocks- 98% because in RI most sandy spots are mostly structureless... we do not have sweeping currents that scour holes along our beaches


What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
10 feet- why? leverage for pulling fish out of boulders

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands? custom works fine for me
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?abu 6500 reels for eeling and needlefishing, vs200 for most plugging and soft plastics, Avet sx for jigging and drifting plugs

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
atrificials 90% of the time eels 10%(when fishing is slow)

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
good wading shoes, waders that dont leak and a plugbag that stays closed when you want it to

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
august

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
catching comes secondary to being alone in the surf

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
nope

:D

I fish sand because it's handy to me and it's what I know. Like Karl, Iam lost on rocks, but God help me, I'm learning to love them. I use a 1209 custom from Betty and Nick's( thanks Charleston)there with a 704z loaded with 50 or 65# pp. I'm leaning toward the 65 these days.
I use as a go to 9' Tica which has been very very good to me.
My favored reel is a 710z, in fact the Penn 700 series speak to me. With 30 #pp.
Plugs, you freakin' guys turned me on to plugs and I'm forever doomed to wood. But I will occasionally cheat on the tree with an eel.
June has always been my most reliable freezer filling month. BUT the Fall Late Sept/Early Nov. has some real glory days now and then.
Every day or night that I get on the sand is a gift from God to me , and it's where my bliss is...

What I want to know is:

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
Rocky coast for the most part because near me I have lots more rocks than beach, and the rocks are more productive in my area ...

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?

9-10 - can do almost anything I need in that size

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
Make own, have freinds sometimes wrap the guides on their power wrapper (saves time - thanks Dave and Tony :hihi: )

What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
Conventional 6500 Abu/ 400 Calcutta / 975 Penn - Spinning 6500 Y Nautil, ZB (thanks folks :btu: ), VS 250

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
Eels & Plugs 70 / 30 - each has a time & place

What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful? Essential & Safe: Korkers, waders, drytop, 2 lights,2 pliers, lip grip on occasion... Too much crap

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?

Jine or late September

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?

Both, target large, happy with smaller - 'cept for Blues :bsod:

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime? Nope - do you? :tooth: :bshake:

1st love penn 140 ,,married a 980 .. Fished spinning only in recent years do to plug building interest .. new love 7500 Nautil I treat badly ,,no maintanance ever ... just line changes .. Nautil is best kept secret canal jiggers gave a bad name to .. Love the outdoors .. Can't afford a shrink .I need fishing, it don't need me . Its never mindless ,, infact its the largest puzzle ...Nobody has it all figured out or can predict one year to the next ..

I fish the rocky local coastline, but I rather the sand
I have been fishing 9' rod...batson su 1088 the most
I really have no preference on custom or factory...I make what I have work for now
I rotate between a Stradic and Speros 8000's and Abu 6500 for convench...I do need bigger convench set up....
I fish plugs 90% of the time.....I used to fish eels 99% of the time....
I think for gear you need sharp hooks and good knots ( and always good leaders) and good waders, warm wicking clothes
The kindest moths to me have been June and October
I feel satisfied for the most part with whatever happen...but do get frustrated when large doesnt happen after multiple outings
And sometimes I wonder what the hell I am doing and think of doing something else.....and I very might well do that....

I am to slow to read all this..

too many questions:uhoh: :conf: :spin: too much to read

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?
jetties and sand beaches adjacent to jetty inlets 90% of the time.Because these places usually hold biggest concentration of the fish
What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
1321m lami most of the time, 7 foot St.Croix when chasing a weakfish and a 1201m conventional occasionally for eel skin plugs
Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
Have em made.No desire to do this
What reel type and size, conventional or spinning?
No seat.Taped on vs250 Conventional ,half a seat abu 7000
Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
last year or so only plugs or eel skin plugs........but ,if I feel like that is what fish want ,I am not ashamed of the chunk or an eel
What gear you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
flashlight and a lucky hat:btu:
What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
October until about a two years when June became better
Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
Anything that shakes my rod brings a smile to my face
Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
No

Z fishes the same areas and way I do, for the most part. (Thank You Z, saves me some typing:bl: )

No conventional for me and Late Oct to Early Nov.

I use stuff from most of the sponsors on this site.
Guys who I have become friends with Like Eben's Surf hog Rubbers.
He used to make some fine plugs also.I have a killer darter ..
HAB'S, John is the best..His friend Joe is a good guy also.I love his tins they are the only ones in my bag..
I usually make my own jigs but when I get low I get the Andrus from Joe at SRI.another good guy..
I have a aquaskins bag that the plastic insert melted.I replaced it with one from another bag I have..
Kadir is still a great guy..I never bought a custom from Mike Thomas.if I lived up there I would probably own several.His prices are great why wrap ur own.I tried that one time it's still half wrapped===Boring...
When I make it thru RI I stop in an say hello to Peter G an drop some doe in there.They have a great bunch of guys who are pumped up on fishing.Plus a state of the art shop like CC Tackle How could I not spend some doe in both places..
I fish a few after hrs plugs,Mac's plugs,hell I even have a few salty-bugger lures.
I have yet to get a few Big Fish Larry's..I want to get a hat.I hear he has a big dome like mine's..
By the way for the most part I never asked for anything form these guy's.Sure I have gotten a few plugs so what.It don't amount to a hill of beans in what I have.
Plus I could catch a bass with a stick an some old mono wrapped around a clorox bottle.If I'm gonna spend some money it may as well go to some good guys I happen to know.Ur a smart feller(or visa versa) Flap, U should be able to read thru the BS.
I primarily fish long rods 11' like a GSB 132 1M wrapped with fugi system guides.And XRA 1322 wrapped with titanium perfection guides.I also use the 9'an 10' rods in the gsb series.
All my spinners get 706 reels.I think the continuity of using the same reel on all my gear is overlooked and a big factor in knowing whats going on at the buisness end of the line..
I use Fireline 20 an 30 lb tests.
In NJ, I fish rocks, sand bulkheads,docks,bridges,an Islands I have to swim to.
Basically whatever it takes.I enjoy it all.
Why?? Because it relaxes me...
If I had my druthers give me a jig an some kinda moving water.
IMO nothing beats a good jig bite.Even huge bass blowing up on topwaters..
I primarily fish lures.It wasn't always the way for me..In the spring I used to use live bait primarily. Herring then to the bunker.It's alot of work gathering bait.Keepin it alive.Tanks Air pumps,penns nets u get the idea..never mind the drudgery of the 5 gallon pail to the end of o jetty thru 400 yds of sand.To have a blue bite it in half.No need for that really in the past few yrs..
I used to NJ style rigged eel fish more also.june,july august.I don't really bother with that much anymore either.For the most part it has to do with where I live an how the better fish don't really hang out as much as they used to.I like to think I fish for big fish.I use big hooks..:D
There are times I don't mind catchin 20-30 12-18 lbers but after a while they start to feel like bluefish.Which I kill.
I plug with spinnig gear.My conventional gear i save for bridge fishing and livelinnig bait.
My conventional rods are kinda a weird bunch cept for the 1209 I use on the bridge with a morrum.
I have a few Gator blanks a St. croix e-glass all have extensions in the but and have been tipped.My reels are mostly ABU 7500's With a 235 Newell I use for herring..
I Like to plug em best.
My gear is primarily set up for big wooden stuff or jigs in current.Thats the way I like to fish.Most times I don't really care if I get em.I have my share of fish. More than most will get in a lifetime.I like doing whatever I want, whenever I want.Thats why most times I fish alone.I can recall more than one time jiggin for hrs without a sniff when most would have long gone when I hooked up with quality bass.All night, 200 cast's an One mid 30's fish with 2 mins to go in the fourth quarter..
I like to travel going to new and different places an trying to figure em out.I have made some good friends doing this.
I would say In NJ my best chance for a big fish is Last week of may thru the first few of june.Even before the bunker thing..
Used to be a good bite in late oct/early nov.It's just not the same anymore..
The most important thing to me other than My rod an reel is my truck...It's my home away from home.
I probably eat as many meals in the drivers seat as I do at home.
I know I sleep better in there..
Someone once told me u should try to learn something from every trip..Thats what I do.
I hope it never gets to be too much..I could see myself perhaps slowing down some.I have been fishin HARD as long as I can remember.I have the bug pretty bad It's in my blood.
There are so many ways to fish so many varieties of fish to catch.
This summer, I have done some great fluking.I also enjoy blackfishin.thru February.I really don't envision it ending in the future..

75% Ditch
15% Scorton & Old Harbor
5% My buddies boat out of Harwich.

Plug - Jigs - eels

704z w/ 11 6 St Croix
7000 Gig game w/ 10 Lami

bug spray - head lamp - pliers - comfortable boots - water

I enjoy a Sept/Oct chill in the air while being on the East end with a fish on and the sun rising.......Not a bad way to start a day....

Do you mostly fish sand or rocky coastline and why?

I'm not a big fan of deep wading when I'm fishing alone.
If I fish calm water I like a rocky shoreline with a drop off. If I'm on sand, I prefer walking a surf beach and fishing the bars/holes and rips

What length rod do you prefer for the type of fishing you do and why?
For the canal I have an allstar 1209 and an arra 1205, both 10' conventional. The 1205 is for jigging metal and throwing big plugs, the 1209 for jigging 3-6 oz. Both are conventional so I can drift in free spool to keep it low in the water column.

For the beach I had been on a quest for the 'perfect' plugging rod for the lures I fish, which I think I found in an allstar1145. I wish it was a 1 piece but this rod has the action I was looking for. Its fast (not soft) and light as a feather, it has plenty of backbone for fish in the rocks, and its light enough in the tip to work a pencil or feel the wobble of a danny in calm water. I have a daiwa emblem pro 5500 on it and it casts a 2.5 oz hopkins a long, long way so I use it both at night and during the day.

I also use a lighter plugging rod made from a cutdown allstar 1207 blank that I got from Ray (Maddog). Thats perfect for metal to 2 oz and I use it for all my light danny's,needles and bombers. Thats the rod I use when I fool around with albies or when I'm not fishing in too much current. That has a 460 slammer with 20lb fireline on it.

Do you prefer to roll your own rods, have them custom made or by ready made brands?
I have made all my own rods, its something to do in winter to keep your mind on fishing. I have a buddy who is a rod builder so he helps me try and pick the right blanks for what I want to do. For me, it all comes down to the position of the reel seat. I usually plant the butt of the rod on my hip when fishing so the rods up high, so I like the seat down lower so its where my hands are comfortable...

Do you prefer to throw bait (eels, chunks, liveys) or plug fish mostly?
I fish the canal with jigs most of the time, when I'm not jigging I mostly plug although I have fished eels a few times this year as I wanted to learn how to fish eels. I picked up a dozen on the way home tonight for the weekend. Call it desperation, I have not seen a good fish in 5 or 6 weeks.

What gear do you feel essential, other than rod and reel, to be successful?
I'm not in weed much, mostly just wet rocks so Felt boot waders do the trick. Other than waders, just an orange grundens slicker and a energizer head lamp. I got a boga last year and thats fun to bring along but not essential unless I'm trying to find a big fish...

What time of year, for your locale has been the kindest to you in your search for the big one?
Up here, last week of May and the last week of sept/first week of october. On nantucket, the first 2 weeks of june, the second week of october some times lasting later into the fall. We had a killer night on Esther's one year in mid november...

Do you feel satisfied upon the end of a nights struggle with whatever you take or do you feel only big bass caught make tyhe effort worth it?
I definitely like to get the skunk off, doesn't matter how big it is. That being said, I am always trying to get my personal best by whatever method i'm using. I know what my personal best fish were on eels, dannys, jigs, poppers, pencils & needles so whatever I'm fishing with I always try to beat the old mark.

Do you ever think it's getting old and maybe it's time to find a new pastime?
Yup but not permanently. I'm in a rut right now but I am heading out later tonight. I have not fished as much in the past 6 weeks, maybe a night or 2 a week. Prior to that I was out almost every night from early may thru mid july. I've been fishing alone more this year and i tend to lose my motivation more when its just me... Usually I just take a break for a few weeks when its slow, and then once I find a few decent fish I get right back into it...

90% sand because it's within an hours drive , i love walking the beach,and jetties are getting a lil' hard for my old bones.

Rods are 7',8'6", 11' St Croix, 8'6" Lami, 9' Tusami ,and cut down 11'St Croix
I use the 8'6" St Croix 70% of the time as it gives me the best feel of the plug.

1 custom, the rest brands with St Croix my favorites. Would love to make my own, but i don't need another hobby.

99% plugs with rigged eels infrequently.

A good pair of breathable waders, fleece, hooded sweatshirt, neck light, boga.

Spring for the largest, but i enjoy Sept-Dec the most without the crowds and the cool weather conditions.

Fish or no fish, the whole ball of wax from airing down to the last cast is what it's about. Good, all good.

It never get's old for me, i fish as much as ever but i am finding it's more relaxing, more breaks and slower, rather than crazy fishing.