OK. First you will need at least 100 yards of monofilament line. Stren’s Original Clear/Blue 4 lb test will work very well. It’s almost invisible in the dark and ties easily with a simple Palomar knot.
Since you will be working in a darkened environment you will need a lure with some bright colors and, I would suggest, a loose swivel spoon. This will catch what little light there may be left and make the lure more noticeable. Considering the environment and the nature of the target, I suggest a 1/8 ounce RoosterTail with bright florescent green feathering, inch silver spoon, on a #10 treble hook.
If you’re on “catch-release” be sure to file the barbs off of each hook. You may lose the specimen to flipping a few times but this will cause less damage to the return when you do snag.
Even though you will be in a dark area the prey here has excellent eyesight thus some of those complex twisting ties like the Clinch, Snell or Blood knots will be noticeable to an experienced specimen and should be avoided. A simple overhand Palomar should be sufficient for strength with limited reveal.
Initial presentation is important. You will want to present outside the vision of the target and reel, in a smooth steady fashion, into the field of vision. Since we are working in a limited area here no jump or drift should be used.
Use caution on the snag. The “set the hook” myth with a sharp jerk is just that . a myth. The hit will be noticeable and a moderate set is all that should be necessary. Too hard a set and, with this species, the hook is apt to split the lip letting the quarry loose or, since we are using a 4 lb test, the line could snap. Anything more than a 90 arc of the rod is too much.
Do not get anxious on the retrieve. Keep tension on the line but not a fast reel-in. The tip of the rod should not arc over more then 60. Keep a steady tension on the retrieve . do not jerk or horse the prey. If this is a fighter, enjoy the pulls and twists of the doomed trying to resist the inevitable. Play the catch. This is the joy of the sport.
As the retrieve nears have your net ready. Dip the net in and under the prey. Do not let the animal break the surface before netting. Other then running out of beer early, there is nothing more disappointing than having your prize flip off-hook at the end, which it will do if it breaks the surface.
Once the retrieve is complete take the time to examine the catch. If on “catch-release” take your measurements, take your picture and make the entry in your log. Revel in the moment. Your mastery over nature has been established.
™ Version 4.2
