What's the best rod/reel/hook setup for big redear?

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Originally Posted by redearhoosier

My goal is to land a 1.8-2.0 pounder ... but those fish are smart and not caught easily.

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To me, this is an argument for going to lighter, not heavier gear. My biggest redear was 12" (not sure of the weight.) I got him on a #16 hook and 6X tippet (that's about 3.5# line, but it's much thinner than regular 4# mono.) There's a guy over at FAOL (Jim Hatch) who fishes Santee Cooper for shellcrackers. He uses very light fly tackle and has landed redears over 3 pounds.

As I said earlier, I'm not sure what the problem is, but I don't think it's your gear. Good luck, though. :)

Palomar Knot

Try this link for knot tying.

Should have given you this link.

Fishing Knots

I went today and while the bite wasn't good at all, I did switch up on tactics. Most importantly I switched hooks and went to number 2 and 4's, that's probably the single most important thing I did. I only missed one fish all day and that's great for me, I usually miss at least four good ones.

I also bought two new six foot poles that are medium action and they are just a much better product for these fish. Those ultra light poles struggle to bring in big redear off of the bottom in twelve feet of water. This is a great thread, TONS of great info in here.

Try running a cotton swab (Qtip) thru your guides on the rods. If the cotton tip snags and pulls, you have a rough spot that could be breaking or just weakening the line.