We recommend loading the reel with 30-50lb mono line attached to a 12-16in 45-60lb nylon coated black multi-strand wire leader using a 75lb barrel swivel. The rig is completed with a 8/0-9/0 offset octopus (beak) style hook with a turned-down eye. The turned down eye is particularly useful because the loop of the wire leader can be passed through it. Some anglers use 40-80lb test single strand leader instead of the multi-strand leader.
Hooking Baits
The best hook placement for chunk baits must allow for the hook to easily pulled from the bait. There is never a need to hook the bait deeply. It may be necessary to hook live baits more deeply so they cannot work their way off the hook.
Sinkers
When fishing in the shallows with very little current, sinkers are not needed. However, if there enough current to move the bait it is critical that an egg sinker is added to the main line above the swivel. The smallest sinker that is heavy enough to hold the bottom should be used.
We typically use a 7 foot spinning outfit loaded with 30-50lb braided line. The thin diameter of the braided line allows use to easily cast an un-weighted 10/0 classic treble hook over a bunker school. We reel very slowly and when we feel a slight tick on the line we take a swing to set the hook. This works nearly every time.
Please contact us if you have questions about our recommendations!