I get asked all the time about the gear I use so I think I will break that down a little this month. For casting artificial inshore I like a fast action 7’-7’6” Medium and Medium Light rod depending on rod construction and a 2500 or 3000 series Shimano with 12# Fins Windtamer braid. I have found Shimano holds up better than most reels on the market to abuse. I also like Stradic, Sustain and Miraval reels. For my rods I prefer Stillwater Rods built by Jason Dail in Wilmington. I also use Fenwick, St Croix, G Loomis, Star, and 13 Fishing Rods. All these brands are available in different sizes and actions. Middle of the line price points and above will serve you a long time. The lighter the setup the better for fast inshore action.
When I’m bait fishing inshore with clients I have to upsize things a bit. The 12# braid is not going to hold up to tossing a 2oz weight so I like to use 3000 series Shimanos, 30# FINS Sling braid and 7’ Medium and Medium Heavy rods. Again, I stick with the brands already mentioned above. We are usually fishing under docks and other inshore structure so upsizing everything gives you ability to lock down the drag and get fish out of the structure.
When targeting the big bull/old drum you definitely have to step the tackle up. A shorter fight time is also better for survival as these fish are going to be catch and release only. I like Medium Heavy Stillwater Rods, St Croix, 13 Fishing and Fenwick 6’6”-7’2” paired with a 4000 series Shimano. I run 30# FINS Sling Braid on these setups and it is perfect for throwing popping corks and the large baits we use for these fish. Your LOCAL bait and tackle store can also help you choose the right gear for your style of fishing. Tight Lines.
CAPTAIN ALLEN JERNIGAN
