Black Drum Tackle

CAPT ANDY LOCASCIO

OCT 3, 2010 10:02 PM

The rod and reel combo we recommend for black drum fishing should be capable of handling 50lb braid. The rod should be 6’6″-7’6″ with a fast to extra-fast action. We prefer a rod that has a little more beef to the rod to handle these big fish and strong currents. The reel should have at least a 5:1 ratio. Do not be confused by the suggested lure weights specified on the rod blanks. These weights pertain to the size of lures that can be cast effectively using that rod.

Braided Line for Black Drum

The reel should be loaded with 50lb braid. Since braided lines have a thinner diameter and less water resistance, they provide an added advantage and allow the angler to hold bottom with lighter sinkers. The lack of stretch transmits even the softest of black drum hits back to the angler.

Black Drum Rigs

The basic rig consists of a 4-6ft length of 50lb fluorocarbon leader attached to the main line via a 100lb barrel swivel. A 2-6oz egg sinker threaded above the swivel use the smallest size that ensures the rig stays on the bottom). The rig is completed with a single 8/0 beak bait style hook.