If you have never heard of the Ling Cod before, this is a fun fish to try to catch that can be found anywhere along the California coast, as far south as Baja. This is a popular fish that gives a lot of sport and the size is well worth the fight. It’s a little different from other types of cod, so you’ll need to use a few special techniques in order to successfully land this fish. Here are some tips to get you started.

First, you’ll need to make sure that you are looking in the right place. If you’re sitting by the shore hoping for the best, you’ll probably be disappointed unless by some fluke of nature, a Ling Cod happens to swim by. This fish loves the depths and will commonly be found on rocky bottoms, and in very deep locations. The best depth to try is around 300 feet, but they can actually go much deeper than that.

Since you’ll be fishing so deep, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right equipment with you. This is especially important since this fish can weigh more than twenty five pounds. You’ll need to make sure that you have an appropriate type of line for deep fishing and one that is strong enough to hold up to the hearty fighter. We recommend a 25 to 30# test line, which should be sufficient.

For a rod, you’ll also want to make sure that it is sturdy or you may end up with a snapped rod for your troubles. For reels, we highly recommend going with a 40 reel when you’re going after Ling Cod. The right combination of rod, reel and line will vastly improve your chances of successfully landing this fish.

Now, let’s talk about bait for a minute. The Ling Cod is definitely a fish that likes live bait, and they have a pretty large mouth. You’re going to want to use larger chunks so that there is a higher chance of hooking them properly. This fish has a particular fondness for shrimp and crab, so a bait consisting of crab meat is probably going to be your best bet.

For jigs, look for a heavier weight and a bright metallic color. This will be more visible on the bottom and the heavier jig will help keep your line deep enough to attract a Ling Cod. You’ll need to be pretty patient once you cast, and stay alert for a slight tub. The smaller Ling Cod may barely be felt when they are first nosing around.

Last but not least, once you have your Ling Cod, you’ll need to be a bit careful when you are gutting them. Stay away from the gills since they contain some very sharp teeth-like projections that can cut you if you are not paying attention. The meat of the Ling Cod can also look a little disturbingly blue, but this is completely normal and to be expected.

Photo Credits: 1

Originally posted 2008-08-13 05:56:33. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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Boating, Fishing, Ling Cod, Tips and Tricks

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