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

Originally Posted by redearhoosier

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

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.