Going after rockfish with light tackle is both exciting and challenging. Light tackle permits bait and lures to move naturally, which produces more bites. The challenge is stopping a hooked fish before it escapes into the rocks. Light tackle is impractical for deeper waters, but is suitable for rockfish found in shallow water between 30 feet and 150 feet. Techniques for catching rockfish on light tackle include finding places where the fish dwell.
Fishing Spots and Tides
One way to find rockfish fishing spots is with the aid of fishing charts. Water depth is given in fathoms or feet. Rocky contours are clearly defined, as well as wrecks and man-made reefs. Get a tide table from the local tackle shop, and plan to fish inshore waters up to 60 feet deep on the incoming tide and high tide. Tides are not as much of a factor when fishing between 80 feet and 150 feet.
Tackle
Any fishing technique includes the right rod, reel, line and rigging. A good all-around light tackle setup for beginners is a 7-foot rod and a medium-class spinning reel filled with 12 lb. test monofilament line. Experienced fishermen can use casting reels with 8 lb. or 10 lb. line. For cut bait, use a dropper loop rig with a 2-ounce cannonball sinker tied to the end of the line and a circle hook 16 inches above the sinker. A raised-dropper loop with a circle hook tied at the end of the line and the sinker above is best for live bait. Change to a heavier sinker to keep your bait on the spot when the current kicks up.
Presentation
Rockfish tend to dwell on one side or in one area of a rock pile or structure. Casting your bait beyond the spot and letting it sink slowly in an arc toward the boat accomplishes two things: It puts the scent of bait in the area, and gives fish an opportunity to follow the scent until they see the bait. Like most fish, once rockfish begin to sense a food source, it is a lot easier to coax them into biting.
Landing Rockfish
Some species charge the bait and quickly retreat to their hiding spot in the rocks or structure. Others engulf the bait and circle to find more. A circle hook is designed to set in the fish’s mouth once the line goes tight. The technique many use begins with holding the fishing rod horizontal or with the tip pointing toward the surface of the water. When the fish strikes, immediately lift the rod so the tip is at a 45-degree angle and start winding the reel handle. Continue to wind as you lower the rod tip to horizontal, and lift it again. By this time, the pressure you have exerted on the hook has turned the fish toward the boat and you can reel up your dinner.
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