Rod Reel Choice for the HelenH 2 day tuna trip

[Fish On]

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!

[striperman36]

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

[Jimbo]

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.

[Tuna Helper]

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!

[keeperreaper]

See pm's.

[Fish On]

Thanks for all the advice. You guys are great!