It is important to keep in mind that any information that you receive from this article represents only one method and opinion. While these methods and opinions are based on traditional methods, they are still proven to produce fish. If you are interested in pursuing blackfish, there is little doubt that you will soon develop your own method and your own decisions on rigs.
If you’re fishing from a boat, there’s a pretty good chance you are using a conventional rod and reel which has stiff action. You likely picked this gear for its flexibility since it allows you to present baits with heavy lead (upwards of 6 oz) and still give you control of stopping. Keep in mind that since blackfish love the rocks, you will likely need all the stopping power you can muster. You will be best outfitting your reel with monofilament or braided line in the 30 – 50lb grade. This will provide you with a great rig that won’t break much since you’ll be using a leader for landing blackfish.
For many, they prefer the three-way rig. This involves a three-way swivel using at least 50 pound test. Take a 2 foot length of floral carbon leader material in 50 pound weight, and tie on a 2/0 octopus hook. Using a snap or dropper loop in the second eye will connect your sinker to your rig. The final eye of your swivel will be to attach your main line
When deciding on bait, if you understand the feeding habits of blackfish, you’ll most likely select crabs. These tend to be more durable than soft baits such as clams and sandworms and will hold up better under attacks from porgies. You should also be aware that a usual fishing trip with one angler will require about two dozen crabs. Don’t forget to bring along a serrated knife, typically found in all homes.
You can prepare the crabs for fishing depending on size. The larger the crab, the more preparation that will be needed. For larger crabs, start the splitting process from the top, between the eyes. Using a heavy motion simply cut the crab in half and remove the legs from one side. Use a 2/0 octopus hook through the leg socket and the shell to secure the crab. You’ll notice the scent it emits and this is what will attract the blackfish. For smaller crabs (those silver dollar sized) you can use them whole by merely removing the legs and hooking them as described above. Crack the shell with a lead sinker to release the scent.
Now that you’re ready to begin fishing, you’ll want to search out shallow water. It is highly recommended you use a depth finder to avoid issues with high rocks in shallow water, especially critical if you are fishing during low tide times. Once you’ve determined which way the current is running, you can move up current and find an appropriate rock shelf for fishing as this is where blackfish tend to hide. Make sure you let out anchor enough until you see the rock pile in your depth finder. Tie your anchor off and start fishing one side of the rocks. If you discover that it’s not a good location, you can simply pick up, anchor and move.
Start off modestly using three ounces of weight. Drop your crab to the bottom of the water and engage your reel. Remember to keep your line tight, similar to the action you would take if you were trying to balance your sinker. Remember, keeping a tight line will help you be more successful and prevent you from snagging your sinkers in the rock beds. You will more than likely run into a fair number of porgies and cunner who will be interested in your bait. It’s important that you notice the different strikes that are unlike the blackfish. Blackfish tend to be more aggressive more of a “ka-thunk” feel versus the tap tap tap repetitive hits of porgy and cunner.
Once you are certain you have a strike you must set your hook quickly. Remember, the fish is going to try to head back to the rocks for self preservation. It’s your job to ensure that he does not make it. If you lean back on your rod a bit, you’ll lessen the drag available to the fish. You’ll likely feel this pulling in every muscle in your arms and shoulders, these blackfish do not give up that easily. You can wear him out by getting him away from the rocks and letting him fight the side of your boat until he wears out a bit and then grab him with a net. If local regulations allow, add a couple to your catch of the day as they make a wonderful meal.
Seasoned anglers love blackfishing. It is both fun and productive and for those who enjoy fish as a meal, it’s a real treat.
