I need some wisdom!

[Ro12]

I'm pretty damn new to it too
I go outta Dana point also
Can't give you any wisdom
But might be able to roll with one day

[InfidelYak]

Sounds good RO!
Quick question, when tying on swim baits are you tying them straight to your main line? Or putting some mono or flouro first so it's not noticable? On the specific reel combo im speaking about of mine im currently using 30 braided. Thanks!

[Dave Legacy]

I always use at least several feet of mono or fluorocarbon for two reasons. The first is abrasion resistance and the second is so I can break it off if I'm snagged. Last bit might be more important if you were running heavier braid than you are currently.

[InfidelYak]

Thanks Dave. The gulf was never clear enough to have to worry about line choices haha

[Dave Legacy]

Originally Posted by InfidelYak

Thanks Dave. The gulf was never clear enough to have to worry about line choices haha

Most of the time if you're fishing with artificials you don't need to worry about line shyness.

[PapaDave]

I've fished Dana now from kayak for about 5 years now. I have a few techniques that work fairly well for bass and halibut.

First, I usually use live bait from the receiver, usually sardines.

For calico bass I will usually use a a light setup. Typically this setup is comprised of 20-25lb braid with a 2-3' 15lb floro leader attached with a swivel (to keep the sinker from going forward) and a 1/2 to 3/4oz sliding sinker. I look for kelp, or these days bottom structure and drift over it while flylining the bait about half way down.

For sand bass, the same setup only using a 2-3oz sliding sinker and drift over or to the side of the structure either bouncing the weight along the bottom or slightly off the bottom.

For halibut, I use the same setup only using slightly heavier floro leader, about 25lb and a 4-5oz sinker. I drift this on the outside edges of the structure and keep it on the bottom as much as possible.

I use a sliding sinker setup because in my experience out there it doesn't get stuck on the rocks or bottom as much as a dropper setup.

I also have done fairly well using plastics and hard baits. Trolling a Rapala Shadow Rap Deep 11 in mackerel, olive green or perch colors over the kelp or structure areas is very effective. The perch one looks a lot like baby WSB, the calicos love em...

Most important s to explore the area, you'll find fish all over if you look.