Fisherman's Landing Tackle Shop Tackle Report

Lucky B Sportfishing ran a productive full-day private charter with one angler on board. The solo fisherman landed 4 legal California Halibut and released 12 more undersized fish, plus scored 2 Bluefin Tuna and 2 California Yellowtail. The Halibut were taken on slow-drifted live bait near sandy bottoms, while the Tuna and Yellowtail were hooked mid-column on fly-lined sardines and deep jigs.

Tackle Recommendations:

Targeting California Halibut:

• Rod: AFTCO West Coast Jigging Rod – moderate-fast action for bouncing bait rigs near the bottom.
• Reel: Shimano Tranx 400 or similar low-profile reel with smooth drag and solid cranking power.
• Line: 30–40 lb IZORLINE monofilament mainline or braid with a 20–30 lb fluorocarbon leader.
• Terminal Tackle:
  • Mustad circle hooks (3/0–5/0)
  • Reverse dropper loop rig or halibut trap rig with a sliding sinker
  • AFTCO sinker release clips can be used for drift fishing to reduce snags.

Targeting Bluefin Tuna (School-Grade):

• Rod: Phenix Axis or Shimano Tallus 7'–8' rod rated for 50–80 lb.
• Reel: Shimano Talica 12 II 2-speed or Daiwa Saltiga LD30 – strong drag, excellent line capacity.
• Line: 65 lb PowerPro braid backing to a 40–60 lb Seaguar fluorocarbon topshot.
• Lures:
  • Shimano Flat-Fall jigs (100–160g) dropped deep on the sink
  • Fly-lined sardines with Owner Gorilla Light circle hooks (2/0–3/0)

Targeting Yellowtail:

• Rod: Phenix Black Diamond 700H
• Reel: Accurate Tern 500 or Shimano Trinidad 16A
• Line: 40 lb Izorline mono or 50 lb braid with 30 lb Seaguar leader
• Lures:
  • Surface irons like the Tady 45 or Salas 7X
  • Live sardines pinned with Mustad or Owner live bait hooks