[617537]

We just got back from a georges bank trip. We did not set any records. Current and wind made it hard to tend bottom. Fished jigs all day, and my body is paying for it! There were some BIG cod caught, and some pollock. Had a good time, and the two of us caught about 20 keepers. Not a great day, but it was good to get out there. Steve

 

[617537]

Codman, You could try the Frances Fleet. I think the boat leaves at 10:00 PM. Friday night. That gives you a chance of a good nights sleep on the way out. They go to Georges Bank one weekend, Nantucket Wreck trip the next. You cant go wrong with either one. By the way, most of the vehicles in the parking lot at the Helen-H were from N.Y., so they must think it is worth the trip. Which ever boat you decide on, call early enough to ensure a spot to sleep, and get your choice rail spot. Steve

 

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jmc, We were using 22oz. jigs, 50lb mono. Between the wind and current, we still had trouble tending bottom. saw one guy using braided line, but later I noticed the rod was in a rodholder. I dont know if the boat allows braid, or if he just quit fishing. I have been out on the Helen-H a few times before and never had this problem of holding bottom. I even tried using a 20 oz. bank sinker on a bait rig with teasers without bait, thinking it might offer less resistance to the current. I caught a couple that way, but went back to the jig, with better results. Call the boat to see if you can use braid, if you can, try that, but use a long mono leader to avoid cutting other peoples lines, and make it easier to untangle the always present cluster-%@#$. steve

 

[617537]

jmc, I dont know if anyone was using heavier jigs, but chances are someone was. I wouldnt worry about it. Chances are you wont have the same wind and current problems. But you may as well bring along anything you have, you never know. Dont be afraid to ask the mates what they think because they know more about how to fish different conditions, as they are out there more often than anyone, and if they dont know, capt. Joe will. He REALLY knows all the options. Also look around the boat to see who is doing well, and try to copy him. Steve
------ P.S. good one Tuna Bab

 

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Sorry,I forgot about teasers. They have hair streamers on board, or you could bring soft plastic grubs, Fin-s fish, or anything along those lines. Bring an assortment of colors and sizes. Steve

 

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You cast underhanded on these boats, although you dont have to. Just drop it straight down if you like. You can also use bait if you wish. Sometimes it works better than jigs, especially if you are fishing a wreck. Remember to ask questions of the mates, that is what they are there for. Steve