Big Bay 12-17

[JWall]

Thought we’d try the opposite tide swing from last trip, low to high. Unfortunately couldn’t find a steady bite in the usual spots. Decided to mix things up and yoyo a blade bait, different from the heavier leadheads and paddle tail plastics I usually fish deep. Started getting spotty bites in the 35-40ft depths and then finished the morning getting a just shy butt in that same depth in a new channel spot for me near the Natty City ramp. A new halibut spot with a new tactic equals a good day despite the lack of numbers.

[Rattus]

Way to adapt and find a winner, something I need to work on. I tend to fish a certain technique, and instead of switching it up when it doesn't work, I just fish it harder (with generally poor results).

[vdisney]

Way to adapt and find a winner, something I need to work on. I tend to fish a certain technique, and instead of switching it up when it doesn't work, I just fish it harder (with generally poor results).

Ditto, I seem to do the same. WTG JWall

[JWall]

Thanks vdisney and Rattus! I am usually right there with you on sticking too long with a tactic or location. It probably helped that I had that 1/2 oz. Damiki blade bait tied on already. It really works in the shallows on the spotties with a straight retrieve but I’ve been experimenting with it vertically in lakes for bass. I figured I had nothing to lose “spooning” it in the channel and bang!

[Gotfish?]

I take a different approach. After I catch several fish from a location and the bite slows down or stops, I will switch baits and often catch a few more. Then switch baits again. If I am not catching anything at all, I will move around and switch baits until I find something that works. I carry 5 rods on my float tube plus a depth finder so I can do all of that. Changing retrieves is also a factor.

In a really hot bite, I will sometimes try other baits just to see if any lures work or a particular lure worked especially well that day.

If you want to get better, you have to experiment. A nice thing about fishing with a buddy is that you can see what is working or not working for him too.