Tilefish Tackle
The rod and reel combo we recommend is a Shimano 20N Torsa reel on a 6’6″ Trevala rod rated for 50-100lb (model TVC66-MH). This outfit is typically used for butterfly jigging but, is also a great outfit for fishing Tilefish (and Cod). The reel is fast and powerful, and it makes bringing up a fish from the extreme depths reasonably quick.
We recommend loading the reel with 65lb Berkley Big Game Braid which is attached to a 3ft length of 50lb Berkley Big Game Fluorocarbon leader using a Mustad Rolling Swivel.
The rig we recommend is a simple hi-lo rig that with a standoff drop loops at one foot above the sinker and again at three feet above the sinker. A standard 12-24oz bank sinker should be used to ensure the rig was on the bottom. The dropper loops get threaded through 7/0 Mustad (92641) Baitholder hooks and clam baits soaked in Mustad Activate Bait Enhancer should be used. The bait enhancer is very effective because tilefish rely very heavily on scent to find food in the extreme depths.
Click here to see all of our Tilefish Shows.
