Rod Reel Choice for the HelenH 2 day tuna trip
 

I'm going to bite the bullet on this trip and do it this year. Instead of renting a rod I'm considering buying a brand new setup for the trip. As I understand it the fishing is bait fishing at night.

1) What type of rod/reel/line would you suggest? Penn 30 wide? 65 lb braid with a top shot of 80 lb mono?

2) What would your misc. equipment list consist of?

My thoughts:
gimbal belt
braid harness
gloves
pliers
boots
rubber pants
terminal tackle
filet knife
cooler

Appreciate all feedback.

Thanks!

Huck's rod and reel rentals are some of the best in the fleet . I would not hesitate to use his then you would need

gimbal belt
braid harness
pliers
boots
rubber pants
filet knife/bait knife
cooler
plastic bags for fillets
snacks, liquids
Hat
sleeping bag
Pillow
ear plugs
any meds, PAINKILLERS
tip and pool money

I go on one or two canyon trips each year. After the first year I bought a Penn 114H 6/0 reel and a Shimano standup tuna rod. (BTW I have yet to catch anything but a squid, but I find the trips are still pretty cool. Gets me out of the house.)
Your list is about what I bring. I bring more food and drinks than I need. Don't forget a camera (put it in a ziplock bag), sun screen and dark glasses. I also pack a waterproof top, a warm top and an extra pair of pants and socks. The first year I went I wasn't sure if I wasn't getting a little queasy so the next year I got my Dr to prescribe a Transderm Scop patch. Whether I do or do not get a little seasick after a while, who knows, but I put the patch on the night before and I haven't felt that way since. It's a shame to waste $300.00 to spend your trip bent over the rail chumming. The patch makes you a little thirsty, but it didn't have any other effects on me. I think they also let you bring a lighter rod and squid jigs incase they run into a school. I guess on what they're feeding on fresh squid runs neck and neck with butterfish.

I go on several similar trips each year on the Frances Fleet out of Point Judith RI.
Here's what I might suggest (in addition to what you've listed):
Spinning rod (10-15lb) for mahi-mahi
Conventional set-up (20lb) for small tunas(skipjack, bonito, etc.)
Shark rig (in case there's a mako in the slick)
Also, if bring you own tuna set-up, make sure the boat allows braid. Many headboats don't.
Enjoy!

See pm's.

Thanks for all the advice. You guys are great!