Eels - how big is too big?

[Jamie M]

I just got back from the tackle store where I bought some eels to sling tomorrow morning. I noticed that these eels were a little bigger than the ones I usually buy. It got me to wondering - what is the largest eel you will use for bass before you consider it too big?

I have used eels as large as 19 inches, but only when I was into fish and had used up all of my other eels. From a boat, I wouldnt hesitate to use a big eel, especially if there was a chance at a big bass. They're just very awkward to cast.

[JohnR]

Personally, I like eels between 12 and 15 inches with a little girth too them. Beyond that, it can get tough not to mention the ability of the eel not do what you want. I've caught them on larger eels but it's not the type of eels I want to use. One thing I'd recommend, get black eels - they work the best...

[Saltheart]

I like them as big as possible but no cobra heads , not even the start of one. At a certain size I think they develop that head then they get very thick and heavy. Those are the kind to skin for plugs but I don't like livelining them.

I agree with Saltheart, a nice chunky 15" seems best.

[JohnR]

Did I mention, get them <font size="4"><font color="000000"><b>BLACK</b><font size="2">

[Mike P]

I dunno, maybe you should ask Buddy Vanderhoop and the rest of the charter guys who troll those 36" "radiator hose" tube rigs off Squibnocket how big an eel is "too big"<img src="/Images/Happy_Face.gif"><!--e1--> For the surf, I'd agree, one that your rod can't cast and present properly is too big. 15" to 18" is ideal for a conventional rod. If your rod can cast it, a bass will eat it. The big problem is throwing those anacondas.