Well, the weather is breaking and it’s time for spring Blackfishing. East coast anglers eagerly anticipate the exhilarating experience of opening day Toggin’. While you get ready to tie rigs and clip crab legs next week, check out these tips that will help maximize your success on this highly anticipated occasion.
Cracking the Code: #SecretBait
When it comes to enticing blackfish, the selection of tackle and bait can make all the difference. Green crabs, Asian crabs, White leggers, and hermit crabs often prove irresistible to these tough fighting fish, but coming out of the cold winter months sometimes a secret bait works better – Surf clams. Generally, the colder water of winter months slows down the activity of Blackfish, including how aggressive they can be when feeding. As a result, their chins and mouths gets little tender and they are a bit more cautious when attacking crabs. Clams pose a much more suitable delight for these creatures due to the soft fleshiness of the bait compared to the hard shell of even a cut Green crab. When you gear up for opening day this year be sure to few clams, they may make the difference between on ok day and a stellar time.
PRO TIP: for maximum effectiveness, slice the clams in strips leaving a portion of the belly with each strip, and hook the strip (one at a time) from the end so the clam is not balled up and will lay nicely on the bottom.
And remember… the bottom structure is crucial for pinpointing prime blackfish habitats. Rocky bottoms, wrecks, and artificial reefs, where blackfish seek shelter and forage for food are prime. These structures provide ample hiding spots and attract what they love to eat, making them hotspots for Blackfish activity.
Check out a quick video from Next Drift on an opening day adventure.
Find more great information on opening day blackfishing:The Fisherman, On The Water, Blue Ocean Magazine.
Related: https://theledger.whatchacatchin.com/blackfish-breaks-connecticut-record/
