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Channel Islands Tackle & Clothing Suggestions
Fishing the Channel Islands is exciting, opportunistic and fun. With a wide variety of species to catch the angler needs to be properly equipped yet advanced tackle is normally not necessary. For many outer island trips the target species will be shallow water Rockfish, Halibut and White Seabass. You can also expect to catch Sheephead, Whitefish, Calico Bass and Lingcod.
Tackle
You should have a 6 - 7 foot rod, with the angler’s preference towards the action…medium or fast etc.
Spool your reel with 20-30lb test monofilament on a Penn 500 or an Avet SX, MX, JX, or LX (single speed) or their equivalent. The gear ratio on this type of reel is in the range of approximately 5:1 and will perform nicely when fishing deeper water for quality Channel Island Rockfish or when battling a trophy White Seabass.
Some anglers fish direct monofilament while others prefer a combination of spectra with a monofilament topshot. We prefer the latter because it gives you much better feel when fishing deeper water.
Hook size for most outer island trips would be 2/0 and 4/0’s.
Sinkers should range from 6 - 16oz inline or torpedo, with the most commonly used being 6 - 10oz.
Diagonal cutters (dikes) preferably or needle nose pliers. Please remember to remove your pliers from your pocket when you are seated in the galley so you do not tear up the cushions.
A small towel or rag to dry your hands.
Pre-Trip Seminar
The Captain will hold a pre-trip fishing seminar on the bow of the boat. He will get you up to speed on the latest fishing conditions, what has been caught the past few trips, and what to expect on your trip. The Captain will also show you how to set up your equipment and go over important things to make your trip fun and successful. We have an experienced crew that is there to assist you. Listen to their recommendations and you will have a great trip. If you need any help whatsoever just ask one of the crew.
Clothing
Pack your clothes in a duffel bag or backpack instead of hard luggage.
Short rubber boots if you have them. If not bring an extra pair of sneakers. Make sure you keep your feet dry.
Bring one change of clothes for each day of your trip, even for an overnight trip in case you get wet.
Bring extra socks. It feels great to get your feet in a fresh pair of socks after a day of fishing.
Hat: Baseball cap or straw hat.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen: We recommend a sunscreen rated at 30 SPF at least. Remember, you will be on deck fishing for a long time and you’ll burn even if it is cloudy day. Sunscreen has an expiration date so always use fresh sunscreen, it's worth the added cost.
A bath towel and personal toiletries if you are on a 2-day trip and would like to take a hot shower onboard.
A warm coat, sweatshirt or both. Bring a wind breaker if you have one. It can get cold on the water so bring something warm with you.
Our bunks come with a pillow and blanket. If you would like more bedding feel free to bring some with you. If you will be on the water for more than a night a set of twin bed sheets or a sleeping bag feels good.
Identification Requirements
A valid picture I.D. is required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Be sure to bring your driver's license, school I.D. or other such documents. The document you carry must not be expired.
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