Beyond the Bait

Whether you’re fishing nearshore or offshore, bump-trolling is a popular technique for a variety of saltwater gamefish because it covers water while presenting baits in a natural way. It’s all about boat control, and this episode will show you just how effective bump-trolling can be when managing bait position. kwfishing

Using a kite to keep baits near the water's surface where mahi-mahi and sailfish often feed is an engaging—and proven—way to hook up with these saltwater species. Capt. George Gozdz breaks down the kite-fishing technique in this episode, and it doesn't take long to see why flying a kite is so effective.

A stable ride to offshore waters, comfort and smart design features developed specifically for fishing are what anglers can expect from a Caymas catamaran. Ride along in a Caymas cat and find out a bit about its build, history and what makes this boat design favored for saltwater pursuits.

Many days in the salt start with catching bait, as success often depends on having fresh herring, pilchards, mullet or other forage. And once it’s caught, bait needs to be kept lively to attract the attention of gamefish. In this episode, we discuss ways to accomplish both for a great day on the water.

Drift-fishing is one of the most straightforward offshore techniques for covering water and getting baits to fish, as it permits natural forces such as wind and current to make the presentation. Finding structure or some other feature that holds gamefish and then drifting baits over or through the area often leads to great action.

When it comes to strength and power, no other inshore gamefish can compare to the tarpon. One hooked on light tackle will make an angler earn every foot of line, and many times the fish gets the upper hand. In this episode, a hundred-pounder tests tackle and stamina and shows us why the tarpon is called the silver king.

Saltwater gamefish like sailfish, mahi-mahi and jack crevalle are known for their blistering runs, acrobatic jumps and powerful surges that will tire your arms and test your strength. Successfully landing these species requires careful attention to fighting technique, and in this episode we’ll highlight tips that will help you win the battle.

The jack crevalle often doesn’t get the respect it deserves when compared to species like sailfish and snook, but jacks can provide thrilling action on light tackle—especially when fishing topwater baits. In this episode, we go in pursuit of jacks to show you why these ravenous brawlers are well worth your time and attention.

Keep things simple when it comes to tackle for the salt by choosing one general-purpose rod and reel combo that will serve for a variety of gamefish and presentations both inshore and offshore. In this episode, Capt. George Gozdz provides tips on how to make that selection, and we put the combo to the test against sailfish, tarpon, snook and more.

The snook is an ambush predator of the saltwater shallows, often hiding among mangroves and attacking prey as it swims by or is swept past by current. Finding spots where snook like to hide is key to catching them, and in this episode we slide in next to an gnarly edge of mangroves and make precise drifts with our baits to pull fish from the cover.

Many saltwater species are excellent on the table, but only if you care for and clean them properly. Preparing your catch for a meal starts as soon as you land the fish, and knowing how to properly clean it back at the dock is vital in ensuring the best flavor. In this episode, we detail steps that will help you turn your catch into memorable meals.

A day of saltwater fishing often starts before sunup and can continue until well after dark. Flashlights—whether they be handheld or hands-free models—are vital items for safety and success in the salt. In this episode, we take a close look at several models from Streamlight that are up for the task.