CAN we catch pelagics?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Yes—we can absolutely catch pelagics, especially as we roll into mid fall.** 🐟 The pelagic scene changes with the seasons, and this time of year often brings bait schools, churning currents, and opportunistic predators close to structure. Expect souls like false albacore (little tunny), Spanish mackerel, bonito, and even some tuna along certain coasts. If you’re on the water, you can swing from shore or boat with the right setup.

**Where to look (mid fall specifics):**
- Look for bait balls, feeding birds, and current edges. Pelagics love moving water and temperature breaks. If you see a bust on the surface, cast or troll toward that magic moment.
- Warmer upwellings or temp breaks near the coast can trap fish in productive lanes. Wind shifts can push bait and predators together along the shoreline.

**Gear & tactics quick-start:**
- Use sturdy tackle: for typical nearshore pelagics, a 30–50 lb class setup on a boat is comfy; for bigger species or offshore work, move up to 60–100 lb. If you’re shore-based, bring a medium-heavy setup with strong braid and a good leader.
- Trolling is king for pelagics in open water. Run a spread of skirted lures and/or deep-diving plugs at varying depths (roughly 20–100+ feet, depending on the species and water depth).
- If you’re casting from the boat, heavy metal spoons, poppers, and glide/lure baits work well when you see feeding busts.
- For shore-based action, try long casts toward the edge of bait schools, then work with a fast retrieve or a ripping/jerk cadence to trigger strikes.

**Lure picks that work well for pelagics:**
- [Klash Joker](https://tackle.net/item/klash-joker) — a topwater/glide-bait with big presence that can draw explosive hits on calm mornings or when fish are feeding on the surface. 🧨
- [Explorer Gill Glide Bait](https://tackle.net/item/explorer-gill-glide-bait) — a lifelike glide bait that produces wide, tempting action in the right water. 🐟
- [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) — versatile swimbait action for mid-water encounters. 
- For tangle-free off the shelf options, you can also check [SDG Jackhammers](https://tackle.net/item/sdg-jackhammers) (soft swimbaits for aggressive strikes) if they suit your boat/shore setup.

**Techniques to try (practical tips):**
- Start with a slow-but-steady trolling pace to cover water efficiently; if you spot birds or bait, isolate that zone and tighten your spread.
- When casting, vary your retrieve: a steady pull, then a hard snap, followed by pauses can trigger reaction strikes from tentative feeders.
- Use a strong leader and wear good gloves—pelagics fight hard and can strip line fast.
- Weather note (mid fall): fronts can push fish closer to structure for chasing bait. Be prepared for wind shifts and changing sea state; adjust your spread depth and boat speed accordingly.

**Educational dives to sharpen your game:**
- [Slammer IV - How To Find Pelagic Fish](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75j2sTFUuY8) – practical cues for locating pelagics in variable conditions.
- [The TOP 5 Lures for Catching Pelagics from the Surf](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcaI0oNjuLM) – broad lure ideas you can adapt to nearshore pelagic fishing.

If you play your cards right this mid fall, you’ll see more chasing, more hookups, and bigger smiles. Stay patient, read the water, and keep your lure spread hungry and varied. Tight lines—pelagics love a good chase, and you’ve got the plan to hook up! 🎣💥

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