Let’s check in with Captain Jacob Belz, of Hookset Guide Service in southern Maryland.
Q: We’re all hoping to see fall bird shows out there, so tell us what you do when you spot those feathered friends. Let’s start with, what do you consider when deciding how to approach them?
A: First, consider wind and current direction and figure out which direction the birds and the fish are moving. Set up for a drift upcurrent/upwind of the birds, without running them over (don’t be that guy). This way you’ll be drifting toward the fish, not drifting away from them. Once positioned, cut off your outboard to prevent spooking any fish.
Q: Sometimes catching fish under birds is easy, but not always. What do you try if you see the birds, but you’re not getting the bites?
A: Usually downsizing your bait will do the trick. Sometimes the bigger soft plastics won’t get bites from finicky fish, but if you try smaller three- to five-inch soft plastics that will get them biting. Small metals work sometimes, too. Another possibility is that your jig may be too heavy and sinking too quickly to show an enticing presentation.
Q: Tell us about the gear you’re using, the rods, reels, line, and lures?
A: For this time of year my boat is outfitted with all medium power rods with 3000 sized reels. An extra-fast tip is a must for sensitivity so you can detect subtle bites. Reels are spooled with 15-pound braid and a 20- to 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. For lures I am typically throwing three-quarter- to two-ounce Invincible jig heads (depending on depth), with five- or seven-inch Invincible Jigs or Z-Man paddletails or jerk shads. I’m not too particular on colors but bunker-like imitations are always a safe bet.
Q: Is there anything to keep in mind about the retrieve?
A: The most effective retrieve for this time of year is “snap jigging.” Start by casting out, let your lure fall, and quickly sweep your rod tip up. Rockfish will usually strike the jig on the fall, so NEVER leave any slack in your line. Make sure you have a constant feel for your lure, or you will miss the bite every time.
Q: What if the birds disappear and the fish don’t seem to be coming back up? What’s your next move?
A: Then it’s time to use electronics to find the fish. Using side-scan, keep the school within casting distance and figure out which direction they’re headed. Just because the birds stopped working doesn’t mean the fish have left the area.
Q: Open mic—what haven’t we talked about that everyone out there needs to know?
A: One of the best tools in your arsenal for this time of year is a good pair of stabilizing binoculars. On a clear day and with some good eyes, you can spot birds working five or more miles away. I use Fujinon Techno-Stabi 14x40s (Editor’s Note: me too, they are awesome!), but there are plenty of cheaper options out there. (Second Editor’s Note: The Si-Tex Sirius 12 is impressive, and about half the cost of the Fujinons).
If you want to get in on the fall rockfish blitz either for a walk-on or a full boat charter, contact Captain Jacob at Hookset Guide Service or by calling/texting (301) 609-1678. Also note that after the fall run Hookset will be chasing the winter giants for some incredible catch-and-release action!