Conference wahoo::fishing

    Paul, 
    
    There are rigs for boats in your class , I think. They're called
    "mini-towers" (often seen on center consoles). Two possible vendors/
    builders are: Salt-Shaker Marine (somewhere in Fla.?) and Sea-Brite
    Stainless, Neptune, N.J.
    A call to SALTWATER SPORTSMAN magazine in Boston might turn up some
    more info- their April issue spotlights boats in your size range.
    
    Hope this helps,
    
    Bagel
    

    Thanks fore the info Bagel. I also found out some information at
    the Sportsmen's Show here in Augusta Maine. There is a tackle shop
    in Saco that is willing to share lots of info with customers. At
    the show I found out that it should only cost about $50 to get into
    handlining, which is how the dealer suggested I start. He also informed
    me that there is no fee to get my boat registered.
    
    What the dealer recommended I do is start fishing with chum and
    either hand line or use a rod/reel capable of handling a big fish.
    He stated that this method works well for blue sharks and could
    produce a Tuna as well. He also suggested having a harpoon on board
    just in case Charlie blunders into the neighborhood.
    
    If the above methods do produce a Tuna, the proceeds could be used
    to finance the tower, pulpit etc.
    
    All this sounds good to me. After I get tired of Mackerel and Blues
    I intend to move offshore and try some of this big game stuff. If
    I have any success, you can count on hearing from me.
    
    Regards,
    
    Paul
    

    
    You're going to need a gaf too, when you surface the Bluefin.
    The "moonies" all handline the fish.  If you go out to Stellwagon,
    you'll see them in Whalers named "One Hope 1, One Hope 2, etc."
    There are usually about 50 of them out there and they do very
    well for themselves.
    
    The tuna usually come in during July/August.  You can find out
    where the action is by listening to the ship/shore radio.  We
    use whiting, mackeral, and bluefish for bait.  Also, squid.
    Four or five lines can be set out at different depths, i.e., 10,
    20, 25 and 40 feet.  We had two hits simultaneously, now thats
    confusing....what fish to fight??!  You can't fight both of them,
    not in the chair anyways.  Maybe handlining you could.
    
    Good luck...its' pretty exciting.
    
    JD/
       

    I HAVE SIGNED UP TO GO ON A TUNA TRIP WITH MY BROTHER DURING THE
    SECOND WEEK OF SEPT.  WE WILL BE LEAVING OUT OF LONG ISLAND.  HAS
    ANYONE FISHED THIS AREA?  IS IT WORTH THE $150 TO DO?  I UNDERSTAND
    THAT WITH THIS BOAT ANY FISH CAUGHT UNDER 300# WAS YOURS TO KEEP
    OR SELL BUT ANYTHING LARGER THE CREW OWNED 2/3 OF THE FISH. IS THIS
    NORMAL FOR MOST OF THE TUNA AREAS.  IS SEPTEMBER A GOOD TIME FOR
    TUNA??

    
    Yes, that is a good time to go fishing for tuna.  The possibilities
    though, of catching a tuna under 300 lbs. are practically
    non-existant.  Tuna usually weigh in at 500/1000 lbs.  I'm talking
    about bluefin.
    
    Is what normal for tuna area??  Keeping 2/3 of the fish??  The
    charters that are run out of Gloucester Cape Ann Marina keep the
    whole fish!
    
    JD/
    

    North of Cape Cod if you catch a tuna, it is likely to be
    in the +500lb range. South of the cape there seems to be
    more fish in the under 300lb range. As a matter of fact
    a friend fishes school tuna south of the cape with bluefish
    tackle.

    The Tuna that are probaly the target fish for the NY boat are shcool
    Tuna which range from 50-150lbs.  Those are the fish they use Stand-Up
    Tuna Rods on.  There might be a Giant Blue Fin, but normally tuna
    school by size, and Bluefin are loners.  A Party Boat will probably
    be after school tuna otherwise only one or two on the boat wolud
    get any, not much fun for the other twenty+ on boat.
    
    Some small party boats that go after Bluefin keep the whole fish.
    Also some yellow-fin move that far north in the canyon areas late
    in the season so you might be after yellow-fin.
    

    JD,
    	Regarding your reply #.3, how do you fish with the bait mentioned?
    Do you rig them up live and fish them in a chum slick? or is there
    other methods?
    
        I cann probably get mackerel and blues by the barrellfull up
    to the end of August but after that they become less plentifull.
    Could they be frozen and fished as cut bait or do they have to be
    fresh?
    
    Paul
    

     Paul,
    
    Yes, if possible, my father tries to use live bait.  He'll
    either catch it himself, or he'll drive right up to a dragger
    and ask them for some freshly caught fish.  Quite
    often though, he's forced to use fresh, but dead bait.  And
    he chums the whole time he's out there.  Which is why the
    sticking method sounds so appealing (in a previous tuna note
    file).  No chum!  No bait.  
    
    Then again, its exciting to be strapped into a tuna chair
    and fight a fish that size.
                              
    Jeanne

    P.S.  He has caught tuna on fake squid lures.  Sometimes
          when the tuna come thru the fleet, they'll bite at
          anything.  Other times, they'll only go for the
          live fish.

	This note has been quiet for a while but I have been keeping
my interest high and gathering information. For anyone else thinking
of getting into Tuna fishing, this may be useful. 

	A federal fisheries permit is required. In New England it 
can be obtained free of charge from:

		National Marine Fisheries Service
		P.O. Box 1109
		Gloucester, Ma 01930

	I was informed by the Maine Department of Marine Resources
that a State Commercial Fishing License is also required. In Maine 
the license fee is $53 per year. A $20 license is available for a 
single operator but since I doubt that I will be fishing alone for 
Tuna the higher priced crew license will be necessary.

	It appears that getting into Tuna fishing requires a bit of
red tape and up front money, but what worthwhile effort doesn't?

Regards

Paul

    Just to keep this note alive I thought that I would enter a Tuna
    report. I heard that two party boats out of Portland Maine have
    already spotted Tuna. Isn't this kind of early?

    Paul,
    Sounds a bit early even for "down" here in NJ.
    
    But then again, up until Friday it felt like October around here
    and by Friday night it was mid- August.. maybe it is Tuna time?!?!?!?
    
    Bagel
    

          < need some advice for new-timey rookie >

 Need information on how to make a "harpoon". I've seen the swordfish darts
 and have been told thats what they use....

 Question is :   How do you do the rest. Like what do you mount it on?
                 Do you use the dart shank???
                 What kind of pole does that go on etc...??
                 Can you buy them ready made?.?  i make most of my own
                 stuff so I prefer to " do it my way???


  Thanks for the info and comments...

  Mike 
  "OLD SOUL"    

    I made my own. If you are ever in the area You can take a look at
    it.  I don't know how good it is though because I haven't been
    able to try it out. It is about 4 or 5 years old but I don't go
    tuna fishing every day.
    
    We used a peice of wood that is bought at the lumber mill
    that is for a hand rail that goes up and down stairs.
    
    attached a  appox 3/8 to 1/2 in  2foot rod on the end.
    Put the dart over the rod and pull the end tight and slip into
    the rubber strap. <This holds until you stick in the
    tuna.
    
            I live in Merrimack.
                           

    Hi,
      My name is Jeff Amberson.  I use to work on a sword "sticking"
    boat during my summers off from college, so mayby I can help you
    out.  Our harpoons were made from aluminum.  The harpoon itself
    was about 13-14 ft long. A metal rod was welded to one end, this
    rod would except the dart.  The biggest factor is in how you have
    your lines, floats and weights rigged.  We would run the line from
    the dart up the entire length of the harpoon.  You fasten it _lightly_
    with tape.  The line is then coiled into a round laundry basket,
    with the free end hanging over the side of the basket.  Attached
    to the free end are several things.  The first is 3 window sash
    weights that are fastend together.  About six ft further is one
    of the _large_ orange floats. And six ft up from that is another
    orange float with a radar reflector.  When you stick a fish, he'll
    break the tape on the harpoon with the line and start sounding.
    You have to run back from the pulpit, and throw the basket over the
    rail, if its coiled correctly, it should pay out well.  Then you
    throw the weights, balls and radar reflector.  The weights tire
    the fish when he is on or near the surface, and the orange floats
    help to tire him when he sounds.  The radar reflectors help in locating
    the fish if you happen to stick several in the same vacinity.  (if
    you don't have a radar unit, obviously omit the reflectors).  Hope
    this helps.  Good luck
    Jeff
    
    P.S.   Make sure you check that your darts haven't corroded onto
    the metal rod on the harpoon.  We once lost a GOOD fish because
    when he ran the dart didn't release from the rod and the whole dart
    pulled out.  Sword fish are notoriously soft fleshed fish.

	I make my own harpoons. Start with a length of "closet pole"
	which can be found at some lumber yards. The "closet pole"
	is round. The "hand rail" mentioned in a previous reply
	has a flat spot. I don't think "mister big" cares. Either
	will do the job. It comes in various diameters. I use
	1 7/8 " diameter and 12' in length. I've seen them
	anywhere from 8' up to 16' in length.

	Drill out the end to a 3/8" hole to accept a length
	of iron rod. Epoxy in the iron rod. I prefer about 2'
	of iron. "Spags sells an electrical grounding rod which
	does the job nicely". Iron rod is important because it
	bends and will set up the dart. Don't use steel or anything
	stiff as it will tear the fish.

	Add a 2 " piece of copper tubing over the end of the
	wood housing the iron rod. This will keep the wood from
	splitting. To the other end, tape on a 10" length
	of rubber tubing or plastic strapping to be used for
	securing the harpoon line. I also add about two pounds
	of lead strapping to the end of the wood housing the rod.
	This will improve penetration of the dart and will also 
	make the harpoon float vertical in the water. Makes pickup
	out of the water easier.

	Hudson's Marine in Newburyport, Ma. sells Harpoons. They
	are home made and are real nice looking.
	
	= JV

    Hudson's is a good place to buy materials and to accuire information.
    I have purchased hand lines and hooks from them. If they aren't
    too busy I have found Melcom ( sp ) very helpful and will answer
    all your questions.
    
    When I built my harpoon on that banister pole with the flat spot
    it was done so for a reason. You may or may not want to incorporate 
    this idea in your design.
    
    There will be a line coming back from the dart. On the flat area
    of the harpoon pole. We took a heavy piece of rubber strap and stetched
    it and nailed it in place. This is similar to those heavy black
    rubber straps that the truckers use.
    
    Now take line from the dart pull it tight and tuck a loop into
    this strap. This will hold the line tight but will release after
    the dart has been driven home. 
    
    I am not proclaiming this method as better because as I stated before
    I haven't had the opertunity to try it out, but you may keep
    it in mind and if you think you want to incorporate it in your design
    by all means help yourself.
                          

 NEWS FLASH........
    
    First YELLOW FIN of the season was brought into Brielle, NJ (mid-
    coast) this past weekend! Fish reportedly went about 100# and was
    caught at the 30 fathom curve by shark fishermen.

    A few Bluefin have been stuck around Boon Island Me. by boats out
    of Perkins Cove. Tri-Coastal Co-op had a hard time finding buyers
    for the fish. I guess the fish didn't have enough fat yet.
    
    Steve

         I was down to Pt Judith on July 12.  Got fogged out in the
    morning so we just stayed in the area all day.  "Fishtrap" brought
    in 8 longfins, 30 or so lbs. each.  Don't know how far he had to
    go to get them.  For the past 3 weeks or so I've been hearing that
    sharkin' has been good at the 40 fathom mark and there have been
    some tuna.  Mario Pagano (capt. of Fishtrap) does do a lot of canyon
    trips so he might have got them there.  As the water warms, the
    schoolies will be right up south of Block and the Vineyard.  Would
    love to catch just one.  It sure is a pretty sight to see a hundred
    or so bait fish leap into the air out of one wave and several tuna
    come out of the next wave in unison after them.  Most of the tuna
    fishing south of Block is done by chumming with chunks of butterfish
    or whiting and floating a whole baits out into the line at different
    depths.  I've done it a couple times but just caught bluefish.
    
                                                        Paul

    Well, I caught one Sunday. It weighted 750 lbs., dressed out at 565
    lbs. Price= $5.00 a lb. We fought it on a handline for around 2
    hours. It towed my 21 ft. boat almost 2 miles before we gat a 
    tailwrap on it. I had a friend drop the fish in the boat for the
    39 mile ride. It turned out to be a long ride in 3-5 foot seas.
    
    I'm ready for next weekend, almost...
    
    Steve

    Congratulations Steve,
    
    Where pray tell did you get it? 
    
    The fishing here in Maine started strong but then seemed to fizzle
    out. The Casco Bay Tuna Tourney had only one entry and that was
    284#. I haven't been offshore much yet but will try the next two 
    weekends if the weather is good. 
    Regards
    Paul 

    	Congradulations. Was this your first giant ? Why not tell
    	us the whole story. Like where, when, how. What kind
    	of bait, etc.
    
    	= John
    

    Thanks for the congratulations. I was my first tuna caught in a
    boat I own. But I got lucky again and caught another one Friday
    Aug. 7.  This one weighed around 600 lbs. and dressed out at 440
    lbs.   I've caught quite a few tuna in other peoples boats. 
    
    I don't have time for the whole story, I'll save that for the cold
    days of winter.
    
    I was fishing on the fingers, northern jeffries. It about 20 miles
    off the coast of Maine. A lot longer from Hampton Beach N.H., where
    I keep my boat.    
    
    
    Steve

    Steve,  I have a boat in Hampton also 32' have been out to Jefferies
    a few times. No Tuna yet just white water.  Like to meet you and
    chat some time.
    
    Regards, 
    steve b
    

    Steve,
    	Any more action on the tuna? If you have found some time we
    would like to hear the whole story. I know you promised to tell
    us this winter but I for one don't want to wait that long.
    
    Bear

    With the nice weather of this last weekend I finally made it down
    to P-Town tuna fishing. There were boat everywhere, but very few
    fish caught. We did get lucky. Around 11 AM Sunday the deep floater,
    with a live whiting for bait, went off. 50 minutes later we had
    it tail wrapped. The fish dressed out at 530 lbs.
    
    I hope we get one more good weekend before its all over.
    
    Steve

    Way to go!!!! How much a pound, if I might ask? Also what kind of
    tackle were did you land it on (stand up??)
    
    
    Bruce

    $9.50 a pound.
    
    We caught it on a hand line...
    
    Steve

    Well Steve, it looks like those cold days of winter are finally
    upon us, and I'm looking for something to tie me over until next
    season.  You said in .24 you'ld regale us with tales
    of tuna!  The when's, where's and how's would give us all something
    to dream of during these long, cold winter days and nights.  How
    about hearing about those giants?

    I'm not ready to give up fishing yet... I've been out every weekend
    lately. There had been some nice cod and pollock showing up inside
    till the blow of last week. I only caught one small cod inside Saturday.
    Sunday I headed offshore and found some nice cod at the Mud Hole.
    
    As for tuna fishing, I'd like to be able to tell everyone I've got
    it all figured out, but I don't. The isn't much to it. You need
    to put the time in. I ended up with three fish, two on my boat and
    on one a friends Novi. I hate typing but here goes:
    
    			Fish #1
    
    Location: The Fingers, around 40 miles from Hampton Beach NH. Off
              the coast of Maine.
    
    Weather:  Great, till the ride home.
    
    Gear:     Hand lines. Fished 3 lines on floats at 60, 90 and 120
              Ft. 30 ft 400lbs mono leaders. Herring tail for bait.
    	      Chummed with cut herring and whiting.
    
    Story:    Started fishing around 6:30 AM. Not much went on all day.
              Only a few people marked fish, very few caught. We never
    	      marked a fish on either machine. I have two fish finders,
              a color 108khz and a paper 50khz. Around 3:00 pm , Bob
    	      my guest crew and I started getting on each others nerves.
      	      He kept telling what junk fish finders they we. They would
    	      never mark a tuna. So I made him go up into the bow and
     	      start jiging on the bottom. The tide was running towards
    	      the stern. I figured when he reeled up a fish I'd see
    	      it on the machine. So he started reeling up. I never saw
    	      his fish, but I told him I saw a tuna follow the fish
    	      up. He said a few choice words about me being full of
    	      it, till the tuna line went snap...
    
    	      So now were on, trying to get everything out of the way
    	      while fighting the fish. Everythink got thrown in the
    	      cabin, rods, lines, fish boxes. We don't really know how
    	      long we fought the fish, we were told it was close to 2 hours.
              We fought the fish in the bow, it kept trying to get hung
    	      up in the outdrive. The problem came when we got to the
    	      mono leader. We needed two people to hold the mono while
    	      one other tries to stick the fish with a dart. Not easy
    	      with only two people on the boat. We had the fish to the
    	      mono at least 15 times, but when Bob would let go and
    	      the the fish would make a run, I wouldn't be able to hold
    	      the line. i finally pinned the mono on the rail and prayed
    	      The crimps would hold and Bob got a dart in him. Next
    	      a tail wrap, and the 750lb tuna was ours.
    
    Ride home:	The weather was starting to get bad, a south wind before
    	        a cold front. A friend in a gilnetter offered to lift
    		the fish in my boat if I'd give his wife and dog a ride
                in. She doesn't like sleeping on a boat in bad weather.
    		So with the fish loaded, friends wife and dog, we started
    	      	in. The chop was running around 2-3 ft.
    		Problem #1, the boat wouldn't plane out with that much
    		load. I moved alot of gear forward and we started planing
    		around 17 knots wide open. But soon we started getting
    		into some 3-5 ft waves, which keep us from planing.
    		So now were doing around 10 knots with 25 miles to go.
    		The rest of the trip was fun, if you like getting beat
    		up. It took us around 3 hours to make it home.
    
    	This is tuna fishing in a 21 ft boat, 40 miles from home.
                                             
    Steve

re.< Note 296.31 by GORT::JOYCE >
                                  -< Fish #1 >-

HUm!! Thirty feet of mono--- What kind of hooks do you use and 
what size? Also do you do anything to make the bait appear 
neutrally bouyant in the water? What technique do you use for 
chumming as there seems to be as many ways to chum as there are 
fisherman?
Maybe we can catch more tuna next year if the information is 
pooled.

    I've been using what they call a a #40 hook made buy Hi-Seas.
    
    There doesn't seem to be any need to make the bait buoyant, the
    tide is always running like a river.
    
    There's not much to chumming, throw a few pieces, when they go out
    of sight, throw some more. You do want to throw the chum as far
    up-tide as possible.

    			Fish #2
    
    Location: 	The Fingers, around 40 miles from Hampton Beach NH. Off
             	the coast of Maine.
    
    Weather:	Sunny and warm early August day. Seas were calm but with
		a quick 2 foot roll. We couldn't make any time without
		getting killed.   
    
    Gear:     	Hand lines. Fished 3 lines on floats at 60, 90 and 120
              	Ft. 30 ft 400lbs mono leaders. Herring tail for bait.
    	      	Chummed with cut herring and whiting.
    
    Story:    	Started fishing around 7:30 AM after the 3 hour ride out.
		We set up on the same numbers that I caught the first fish.
		But it seemed that most of the fleet had move around to miles
		to the south, so I was wondering why? That's one of the many
		problems the weekend warrior is faced with, not fishing every
		day, its hard to know if the fish have moved out of a given
		area. The bottom is the same, so I figured it was a good place
		to start. I also marked a tuna while anchoring which helped
		the decision a little. There was some early action, two fish
		boated four miles down the line, to the south. A few boats
		just south of us were marking fairly good. We didn't mark
		anything after that one fish, it was now around 10:00 am.
		I started thinking about making a move to the south, but 
		figured I give it till around noon. Around 11:00 we started
		marking. The fish would shoot up from 180 ft. to  120 ft.
		eating the chum under the boat. I tried chumming heavy, light
		and not at all, to get the fish to bite. When I stopped chumming
		the fish would leave, chum heavy the fish would come back.
		I changed the baits, I worked the lines, pull a line in, them
		let it back out, hoping the fish would screw-up and grab the 
		hook. No luck, now its 12:30, and I going nuts watching this
		fish feed under the boat since 11:00.

		Well, guess what? The fish screwed-up and grabbed the wrong
		piece of bait. I grabbed the line and set the hook, Chuck, 
		the guest crew of the day, pulled in the other lines and dropped
		the anchor ball. The fish pulled us down into the fleet, one guy
		that had been drift fishing moved for us. We were able to keep
		the fish out of other people lines. The fish fought hard with
		little bursts. It would go from a tight circle 150 ft. under 
		the boat to to the top in the matter of seconds. We fought the 
		fish for a little less than an hour. Chuck and I were very 
		tired when we were trying to stick the fish. We missed around
		10 times, but that was because the fish was so deep. With the
		water so clear, it looks like the fish is right there so you
		take a shot. Its hard to believe how tired you arms get from
		trying to grip the shock cord. Our hands would get so cramped
		that it is hard just to close them. We finally got a dart in
		the fish, a tail wrap and the fish was ours.

		There was a co-op buy boat there that wanted the fish, but
		I didn't want to sell it to them, they got my first fish
		and I felt I got a poor price. There were a bunch of boats
		that sell to the Portsmouth Co-op. They said I'd get a fair
		price if I shipped it with them. But that would mean I'd
		have to get someone lift the fish in my boat. The guy 
		that lifted my first fish was still out there fishing, he
		had been living out there for a week without a fish. He's a
		good friend, but I didn't want to bother him. One of the other
		boats from the Ports. co-op offered. No only did they lift 
		the fish for me, but they also gutted the fish and gave us 
		two boxes of ice to pack the fish in. The want their co-op 
		to ship	the best quality fish.   

		The ride in was great, flat calm and 20 knots for speed.

    That tuna fishing sounds great!!!
    
    I fish in the Pacific for Salmon (Silvers & Chinook) and love it.
    I also do a lot of steelheading in the rivers.  I haven't read anything
    in this conference that would compare until now.  It sounds like
    a blast, wish we had some here.  (We might, but I don't know about
    it.)
    
    Ken

    Steve,
    
    I was just wondering if you primarily fish N. Jeffries?  Have you
    tried Stellwagon Bank, and if so what's your opinion of that area?
    I think I've found a place for the boat in Newcastle (Mike's Marina),
    but they can't tell me if they have room until Feb.  
    Do you trailer your boat, or did you say that you kept it in Hampton? 
    I stopped in at the marina in Hampton, and they said they're going to rack
    storage for all boats < 27 ft next year.  Anybody with any feelings
    or knowledge about rack storage?  I don't like the thought of having
    some guy picking up my boat everytime that I want to go out.        
    
    Well, thanks for the tuna stories.  I hope to meet you and Paul
    out on Jeffries sometime next year.
    
    joe

    re:-1
    
    I do most of my fishing in the area from North Jeffries to Cape
    Ann. I have fished the NW Corner (Stellwagon) in past years.
    Its hard to have an opinion about tuna fishing in any area, if
    there are fish there, then you give it a try.
                               
    I assume your talking about KVC Marina in Hampton. I kept my boat
    there for the past few years, in water. They are pushing the rack
    system. I agree with you concern about having someone lifting my boat 
    everytime I want to use it. Which is every day during good weather.
    Next summer I'll be out on a mooring, they claim no small boats
    in wet slips next summer. There are after the big bucks next year.          
    
    I can tell you first hand that the rack system worked at KVC, but
    there were a few problems.
    
    On the plus side:
    
    Cheaper
    No marine growth
    
    The other side:
     
    The boats do get damaged. A lot of gel coat dings, broken speed
    pick-ups and D/F transducers.
    
    They get dirty, the dust from the dirt road. Which means most people
    have to was their boats before and after use.
    
    Not enough, so called courtesy docks. If you want to have the boat
    in the water for the day and do some maintaince it can be a pain
    finding an open slip.
    
    Thunderstorms are a problem. The have 100 or so boats on racks.
    On a nice day, maybe 50 boats out on the water. When the storm
    hits, you have 50 boats all trying to tie up to a few courtesy
    docks in 50 knot winds. Quite a sight.
    
    I won't comment on the management.
    
    Steve
                                                         
    

    Possible bad news for anybody that fishes for tuna and sells them
    in New York.  According to the New England Fisherman, NY just passed
    a law requiring licensing fees to sell ANY fin fish in their ports.
    Its $100/season for residents, $250/season for non-residents that
    fish beyond the 3 mile limit, and $1000/season for non-residents
    that fish within the 3 mile limit.  Could this be the start of state
    salt water licensing?  Has anybody else heard anything about this?  If 
    anybody has any information on Ma/NH/Me licensing, I'ld love
    to hear about it.  
    
    Steve J., thanks for the info on Wessel.  I received their brochures
    and I personally like the JC or the BHM the best.  The Duffy didn't 
    look too bad also.  But from the specs that they sent me, it doesn't
    look like the JC or BHM (I love the HUGE fish holds available) can
    get an honest 20 knt cruising speed.  As another weekend warrior,
    that 20 knts is as important as sea handling, range and fishability. 
    I think that  some weekend I'll take a ride up there and look around.
    I heard that JC is built in Nashua, if so anybody know where they
    are?

    Its the same story in Mass. I needed a $100 non-resident boat license
    to sell fish.
    In NH you are required to have a "license to sell" for $25. I believe
    the NH law requires this only if the fish are caught in other that 
    a conventional way, ie. rod and reel. Every time I sell fish, the 
    fish dealer asks if a have that license, so I buy one every year.
    
    Re: BHM 31's 
    I've been told that with a 60 series Volvo or a 3208TI Cat, 20-23
    knots is possible. 
    
    Re: JC's
    I remember them being built in Nashua. I think they are on NE Blvd.
    Same road as the FAA center, DEC has some buildings in the area also. I
    got a tour when they were just starting up.
                
    Steve

    re: -1
    The correct address for JC is 10 Prospect St. Nashua, N.H.
    
    Steve

    Thanks Steve.  I went there yesterday afternoon, but the salesman
    was out.  Got some brochures tho   After looking at the JC31 
    ProvinctownII, and comparing that with the Topaz 29 and Blackfin 29, 
    they all are identical.  The JC has more bow flare and engine options. 
    Nice boat.  I'm just waiting to see how much one of those cost.  I also
    want to look at the Duffy 31 and BHM 31's.  With some of the engines
    available, I'll bet you could get an honest 20kt cruise out of the
    JC or Duffy's.  Don't know about the BHM.  All of this looking could
    be moot.  If the wife isn't interested, then my 24 Grady will last
    me a while :-). 

    J C Boat co. is owned and operated by Jack Cadareo ( spelling suspect)
    
    He has two factories or at least he did. One in Raymond N.H.
    and the other in Nashua as described...
    
    They also make some real nice sneak boats for duck hunting.
    
    At any rate Jack is real interesting man. It seems he goes all over
    the world hunting exotic spiecies. I shot with him once at SKAT
    and he does a lot of tuna fishing in the summer...
    
    Purhaps I can find out more... I probably won't see him for another
    year but who knows

    Thanks.  It turns out that the factory is still in Raymond, but
    Nashua is just a sale office and finishing plant.  Right now I'm
    just comparison shopping, but they look like a seaworthy boat. 
    Like Steve J., I too am a weekend warrior and speed is very important.
    I'm waiting to talk to the salesman and find out if their boat is
    capable of satisfying my needs.

ref:                     < Note 296.43 by SMURF::AMATO >
                           -< Thanks on info on JC >-
Joe,
Have you checked out the 'ALURA' yet? Comes in 35 and 27 foot 
models. Sure am happy with my 35 which I bought last spring.
She will turn an honest 30 Knots if you ca afford the fuel at 
that speed.
Norm

    re -1
    
    Norm,
    The 'ALURA' sounds and looks like a nice boat.  But what is their
    price tag and does it come with deisel power?  I don't think I'll
    be able to afford >60-65k, so I may be real limited.  What I may
    end up doing (besides just keeping the Grady!) is trying to find
    an older (circa 77) Bertram 31.  I like that boat a lot.  I spoke
    to some marina's, and got a general figure of 20-30k to repower
    with a couple of brand new deisels.  The hull is a good solid hull,
    and is a proven fish getter.  The older one's primarily came with
    gas power.  I definitely want deisel.  They did offer the boat with
    deisel, but I heard that they were way underpowered.  The marina's
    that I spoke to said I could drop in a couple of volvo's, or cummins,
    or I think he even mentioned cat's.  With the right engines, I get
    the speed I want (> 20 kts cruise) and pretty decent fuel consumption.
    I've seen those boats with gas for $30-40k, so with new engines
    I'm still in my price range.  Maybe if I have a REAL good tuna
    season...
    
    Waiting spring
    joe
    

re: < Note 296.45 by SMURF::AMATO >
Joe,
!The 'ALURA' sounds and looks like a nice boat.  
	Glad you have seen them and  I hope you do make it down
	next year.
!But what is their  price tag and does it come with deisel power?  
	Unfortunately by the time you get a 35 in the water you 
	have without trying about 50% more than the 60-65 you may 
	want to spend. They do have diesel as an option but that 
	adds about another 20k.

!I definitely want deisel.  
	Why do you insist on diesel? No joking now an honest 
	answer no some of the old cliches. 

Maybe you should consider buying my 35 and I will convince the 
wife to let me get a bigger one(ho ho). Only joking Joe I really 
want to keep her at least for a few more seasons.

It is almost fishing time again.

Norm

PS. Santa brought me a new gimbal belt and shoulder harness.

    re -1
    
    Norm,
    Congrats on the belt and harness!  Hope we can hook up (pun intended!)
    and give it a shot.  I've got mine sitting in the basement ready
    and waiting.
    
    About deisels.  I realize the speed will be better with gas power,
    but the GPH is much higher.  With todays gas engines, reliability
    is not really an issue.  The big thing is the $$$ to run them. 
    If I can cruise @ 20kts burning 8-16GPH (depending on single or
    twin deisels), I'll be very happy.  Most of the gas boats that I've 
    ckecked out burn at least 20GPH.  That's too much for my bank account. 
    I think with the prices that I've been seeing, unless I get lucky
    or find something used, I'll probably wind up keeping the Grady
    for a few more years (or look for that old Bertram).
                                        
    Like you, I work to support my fishing habit.  My wife also works
    to support my fishing habit :-).  Well, hopefully I'll get a chance
    to see the ALURA this summer.
    
    When will I hit the lottery, sigh...
    
    Joe

	One question that has been bothering me about Tuna fishing is how
do you manage to be selective? The methods for handlining Tuna seem to be 
very similar to those used for Sharks. The Shark fishing that I have done 
has been while drifting and chumming with frozen, ground up Mackerel. The 
bait has been whole Mackerel or fillets. The only difference in Tuna fishing 
seems to be that they prefer fresh bait cut in chunks rather than ground up. 
Since a mono leader is preffered for Tuna, having a bunch of Sharks show up 
could prove to be expensive as well as a pain in the butt. Has this been a 
problem with anyone? If not then can anyone enlighten me as to why not?

Regards,
Paul

    RE: -1
    
    You are right, there isn't much difference between shark and tuna
    fishing. One day last fall while fishing for tuna, I caught 3 blue
    sharks. Not much you can do about it. I just cut the hook off.
    They really aren't to much of a problem. Fishing in an area with
    50 other boats, the chances of catching a shark or a tuna are slim.
    
    Now when it comes to dogfish (sandsharks) showing up, they can make
    an area impossible to fish. You either move or pray they leave during
    a tide change. 
    
    Steve

Correct me if I am wrong but I have noticed that shark fisherman tend
    to drift while chumming while Tuna fisherman usually drop the hook.
    
    Is this the case??
    
    Capt. Codfish

    re .50>
    	Correct. The Shark fishing that I have done is in 400 - 500'
    of water. No way to anchor in that depth. The Tuna fishing spots
    that have been referenced here seem to have spots of 200' or less.
    Not easy to anchor but possible. I have a 600' spool of rode on
    order to add on to my regular 200'. I'm hoping that that will be
    enough.

    	In planning next season an interesting subject came up: what
    is a fair way of dividing the proceeds from a successfull Tuna 
    fishing trip among the boat ownwer and crew. Some considerations 
    are:
    
    	* Operating costs (including depreciation).
    
    	* How the trip costs are split. ( Owner pays...crew pays gas
    	  ...or an actual total cost split.)
    
    	* How many trips various crew members have been on prior to
    	  a successfull one.                           
    
    	My own opinion is that crew members be given a "share" each
    time they go out. The crew's portion of the fish would be divided
    by the number of outstanding shares when the fish is sold. Each
    crew member would then receive payment according to the number of
    shares he has accumulated. 
    	The above method, although complicated, seems fair to me. The 
    remaining questions are however, what is an acceptable share for 
    the boat owner/captain versus the crew, and what is a reasonable 
    expectation for cost sharing among the crew members. I am sure that 
    these points are handled a variety of ways by different boats but
    I would be interested in hearing from others as to their experiences/
    opinions. 
    	When faced with offshore trips costing big bucks and a very low 
    success rate, I feel that I need help financing the trips. In talking
    to potential crew member I get the feeling that some would love
    to be treated to several trips at the owners expense and then split
    the cash 50/50 when success finally comes. Others, of course are
    more reasonable. What do you all think?
    
    Paul

re:.52 --what is a fair way of dividing the proceeds from a successfull Tuna 
    fishing trip among the boat ownwer and crew. 

Well Paul you sure ask good ones. Until this year I always went 
on some one else's boat cause I was not rigged out for offshore.
Although I worked as crew I never expected any compensation 
because I was learning (still am too) how to fish This year I 
took out some guys and they paid expenses. I did give them the catch 
although it was not Bluefin Tuna. It seems that there are many 
factors as you say as how to divy up. When it comes to yellow fin
and albacore I plan on deciding as each trip goes. I am not in 
the business so to speak and really only care if expenses get 
paid. It would be nice to get some equipment paid for out of the 
proceeds though. Recall before anybody even steps foot on the 
boat that more than 100 big ones have crossed hands. Whew if my 
wife only knew the true cost of the boat I could be in big 
trouble. 

When I take people out this summer I was thinking like the 
following.   
                          NON_BLUEFIN
             1. Crew divides the fuel and direct expenses.
               
             2. If more than one fish is caught then share
                70% boat 30% crew.

             3. If only one is caught then captains choice.
            
                          BLUE FIN TUNA

             1. Crew divides fuel and direct expenses.

             2. 70% Boat 30% for the crew of any proceeds
                from sale of fish.
   
  If we really tried to figure in everything like depreciation 
than no one could afford to go out with us. I just want to get 
some assistance mostly for the fuel bill. It is pretty easy to 
burn up 150 gallons in a day and at $1.50+ per gallon that adds 
up. There can be some unexpected expenses like someone dropping a 
FIN-NOR 50 overboard. I have seen this happen.

Oh well spring is coming  soooooner I hope.
Any comments??
norm

    Hi Guys,
    
    This year I'm going to concentrate on handlinig giants.  I'll usually
    be taking out 1 person as crew, maybe 2.  The best way that I heard
    about splitting things like cost/profit was to count the boat as
    a crewman for profit.  Expenses will be split evenly between how
    many people I have crewing and me.  Myself and 1 other person, 50-50.
     Myself and 2 people, 30-30-30.  If we get something, and there's
    1 person crewing, 30% captain, 30% boat, and 30% crew.  More crew,
    less percentage of the catch.  I think that's a pretty fair way,
    given I've gotta pay for slip (bucks), boat (BIG $$$), and insurance
    (big pain).  Last year, with a 2hr ride each way, and bait, we were
    splitting $100/trip for expenses.  Between 3 people that's a pretty
    cheap trip to catch a tuna.
    
    I think that this way is pretty good for splitting some potential
    big bucks.  Norm, I think your idea is good for the yellowfin and
    school tuna down there.  The fish being smaller, and the profit
    less.  I just hope that I get a chance to try this out this year!
    
    Joe A.
    
    P.S.
    
    I rented "Tuna Mania", "Big Fish Small Boat" (650lb blufin in a
    16ft whaler!), and "Where the Biggest Bluefin Live" this past weekend.
    Tuna Mania was a big dissapointment.  1hr of setting up your $500
    chair rod, $2300 fin nor reel, loadding it with line (dacron) and
    thins like that.  It had about 30min of some action, but most of
    the action was of some guy in a chair cranking the fish right in.
    The other 2 were of Lee Wulff (sp?) at Canso Bay.  And there are
    some INCREDIBLE action shots of giants smashing the bait!  They're
    30 in eaach.  Highly recommended entertainment value.  Realyy got
    me pumped for this year!

    Joe, Norm,
    	Your replies reinforce my thoughts too. I was thinking betwixt
    and between a 1/3-2/3 or a 1/4-3/4 split. (I was only thinking of
    giant bluefin.) After reading your replies and giving it a little
    more thought, I came up with my final plan which follows. (I love
    to comlicate things.)
    		
    		* The captain/owner (me) gets 65% 
    
    		* The crew splits 25% 
    
    		* 10% goes for the victory party.
                  
    
    	What do you think?
    
    Paul

    I like the victory party part!  That sounds like a reasonable plan
    to me.  Personally, there's someone that I go out with a lot, and
    he and I are probably just going to split everything 50/50.  Reason
    is that we take turns on each others boat.  We'll pull expenses
    for the trip out first, and split the remainder.  When I have other
    crew, I like your plan.  It's the same as 1/3 boat, 1/3 captain,
    crew splits 1/3, with captain and crew giving up 5% each for a party.
    I just hope that as we all sit here dividing up the treasure, that
    we all have a good season and get some.  I'ld like to get one giant
    over 500lbs just to see what a fish that size is like.  I hope the
    fishery is good this year.

50-50 ... 1/3, 1/3, 1/3... ??? What's all this boil down to in potential 
real paybacks?

Perhaps you could give an example of what the takehome payoff would be going 
under the assumption that, for example, 3 people went out with you.  Also, 
assume a fair sized tuna was caught and sold at last year's prices.  How 
much might one expect to make?

Thanx...
	joe T.

    Joe T,
    	I'm sure that others will reply with specific examples but in
    general terms Tuna = *BIG BUCKS*. Last year prices started at $2
    per lb. and ended up well over $10. I heard that it peaked at $14
    but I could be off a bit. Value varies all over the lot depending
    on when in the season the fish is caught, its condition etc. but
    in virtually all cases we are talking 4 figures. Assuming that you 
    catch a Tuna that weighs in at 500 - 700 lb at $10, you are talking 
    $5,000 - $7,000; even early in the season when the price is $2 you
    are talking $1,000 - $1,400. You can see why people get excited about 
    fishing for Giant Bluefins. Also you can see why it is important to 
    understand how things get split up before hand. There is enough
    money involved to strain the best of friendships.
    Regards,
    Paul	Hoping_that_the_Bluefins_out_there_getting_fat 
    

    Re: past several
    
    One other plan I've seen to split costs is a variation on the share
    method. Many commercials split it up:
    		1 share - captain
    		1 share - boat
    		1 share - each crew member
    
    		All shares figured AFTER expenses!
    
    Bagel _who_is_wondering_how_to_get_tuna_in_the_surf_

    Bagel _who_is_wondering_how_to_get_tuna_in_the_surf,
    Pick up the Feb/March '88 issue of Sport Fishing and turn to page
    16.  It gives tips on getting a tuna in NJ from the surf.  It seems
    that 6 lifeguards umbrella'd a 117lb yellowfin off of Ocean Park.
    A new meaning has been given to "umbrella rig" !
    
    Joe

    
>        Bagel _who_is_wondering_how_to_get_tuna_in_the_surf,
     
    When I was 14, I caught a 48 lb bluefin in a rowboat about 150 yds
    off shore on a Herter's blank plug on a med/light pole and 12# test. 
    We thought they were bluefish.  The hit the beach 4 days straight,
    and never saw them again in 12 years.  East Hampton out on Long
    Island near Montauk NY.  We lost a few more due to our lack of proper 
    tackle, most were bigger.


    JD    

    I think you're surf caught tuna were mixed in with some bales washing
    ashore!!!!!  -:) [or whatever the hell represents a grin]
    
    
    Seriously - I do recall that a few years ago there was a photo on
    display at the Sandy Hook ranger station of a sizable bluefin taken
    in the surf.  Given that I've experienced trying to land 10#+ false
    albacore and good sized bonito in the surf, how the hell do you
    stop a bluefin of 25# or more????(without losing a finger or thumb
    on the spool) Come to think of it, do I want to endanger my heart
    that way???
    
    Bagel  who_is_now_rethinking_the_concept_

Spags currently has 50-80 weight standup tuna rods made by 
Fenwick with Aftco roller guides for $125. Just thought someone 
out there may not know about it. Also have 12 foot Shakespeare
surf rods for $18.99.

I picked up two stand-ups and a spinning rod with a Penn 704 
reel.

Gettin-ready

    Re: .63
    
    How about some more detail on that Shakespeare surf stick?
    $18.99 might be worth the long drive or a shipping charge.
    
    Bagel
    

    Re: .63
    
HI Bagel
I will get the actual number off the rod when I get home tonight 
and post it Monday. 
norm

    

re: .63
HEY Bagel,

The Shakespeare rod was a ALPHA series 1310A which is a 3.65 
meter, three section rod. Graphite composite.

Price 18.99
norm

Finally the new reels arrived via UPS and now have been mounted 
on the rods but not spooled up yet. Also got 2000 yards of fifty 
pound test for them. Each reel (Daiwa 900-H) holds about 920 
yards of fifty pound test mono. Hope they bring me good luck.

    Norm,
    
    920 yrds of 50 on a 900H?? Are you sure? My 50TW holds 800 yrds,
    a 6/0 holds about 450, a 9/0 holds around 600 i think. For the size
    of the reel that seems a little high. By the way, I think I am going
    to pick up a 6/0 (114H) for my new cod rod and then use it for standup
    in the summer.
    
    Bruce

re:     -< 900 yrds of 50? >-

   Bruce,
    
	I blew it and typed a 9 instead of a 7. Yup it holds 720
	yards of 50 pound test mono. (so I don't screww it up 
	again seven hundred and twenty yards)

	What does the Penn 80 hold? 

    Norm

    I don't know anything about rod & reel tuna fishing, are you using
    the equipment in the last few replies for the giant bluefins or
    for the smaller yellow tails?
    
    I would think you might have quite the fight with a 800 lb. bluefin
    on 50 lb. line.
                                          
    Steve

    It'ld really be quite a fight.  But it is possible (world record
    is > 800 lb I beleive) .  But i think they're referring to the
    yellowfin.  However, in the area they're talking, sometimes giants
    are around, especially in early to mid july.

re: .70 Bluefin

Yes ,I was thinking about yellowfin and sharks.
Norm

    I love this tuna talk....
    
    I think the PENN 80 holds around 700 yrds of 80. 80W around 1000.
    
    The Shimano 80W holds 1000 and only costs around $350 where the
    PENN 80W is around $450. But what I would do if I was starting for
    giants is buy a PENN 12/0 for around $150 and load it up with #130.
    
    Only 6 weeks till I try to get the lower unit back on...And one
    of those weeks will be spent in the Florida Keys...
    
    Capt. Ready_to_catch_Codfish

    	There is a Tuna seminar being given on March 30 at 6:00 pm at
    the Saco Maine Elks Club hall. Saco may not be too far from some
    of you in the North Shore area (Mass) or Portsmouth NH. The seminar
    is being sponsored by the Saco Bay Tackle Company and it costs $3
    per head. The Elks Club is on Rt 1 across the road from Fun Town.
    (Take exit 5 from the Maine Pike and go North on Rt 1.)
    	Several Augusta Deckies are heading down to it and would welcome
    the opportunity to meet some of you. 
    Regards,
    Paul

    I've been hearing reports that some of the longliners have begun
    to see some bluefin off the cape already. I understand that the
    fish were sighted more than 100 miles offshore, in the gulf stream.
    Has anybody else heard anything regarding these rumors?
    
     Next order of business- I went codfishing on patriots day out of
    Seabrook on one of Eastman's party boats. I had a fairly active
    day, but they were all tiny. How's the codfishing going? Has anyone
    caught any wolffish? 
    
    the doctah

re: < Note 296.75 by VIDEO::LEVESQUE >
re:  -< Early bluefin sightings?!!! >-
re: I've been hearing reports that some of the longliners have begun
    to see some bluefin off the cape already. 

Yup it is true but they are dry fish so not much good in the price 
dept. Probably a couple of weeks and thr dry ones will be 30 
miles or so off Nantucket.

norm

    Cod fishing on stellewagon has been very good so far from my experience.
    
    Joe and I got about 60lbs of fillet one day, small fish but they
    were jumping into the boat. Joe had an exellent solo run where he
    got another 50lb of fillet and last sunday I ran out and got
    around 60lbs with 2 fish just under 20lbs. As stated earlier, plenty
    of macks and school pollock around.
    
    Bruce
                                                        

    
    			-<NEED SPECIFIC INFO. PLEASE>-
                        
    
    I'M UNABLE TO GET MUCH OF THE INFORMATION I'M LOOKING FOR FROM LOCAL
    SHOPS BECAUSE I'M TOO FAR INLAND FOR ANYONE TO SPECIALIZE IN THIS
    TYPE OF FISHING.  THEREFORE I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE ANSWERS TO
    THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:
    
    1.	WHAT IS THE SMALLEST PENN SENATOR REEL USED FOR TUNA FISHING
        (BLUFIN)(114, 115)?
    
    2.  WHAT IS THE MINIMUM LINE WEIGHT?
                       
    3.  WHAT DEPTH OF WATER DO THESE FISH INHABIT?
    
    4.  HOW DEEP SHOULD YOU FISH FOR THEM?
    
    5.  WHAT KIND OF BOTTOM STRUCTURE IS GOOD (I.E DROP-OFFS, ETC.)?
    
    6.  HOW MUCH CHUM SHOULD BE USED OVER HOW LARGE AN AREA?
    
    7.  IS COD O.K TO USE FOR CHUMMING?
    
    8.  HOW BIG A HOOK SHOULD BE USED ON 50LB AND 80LB TEST LINE?
    	SINGLE, DOUBLE OR TREBLE?
    
    
    ANY OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
    
    I WILL BE FISHING OFF THE GRAND BANK OF NEWFOUNLAND OUT OF PLACENTIA
    BAY ON A 40' LONGLINER.  THE SKIPPER IS A FRIEND OF MINE WHO ONLY
    FISHES FOR COD AND HAS NO TUNA EXPERIENCE.  I'VE MANAGED TO TALK
    HIM INTO TAKING A COUPLE OF DAYS OFF TO SATISFY MY OWN "TUNA FEVER".
    
   (I'M GETTING THE APPROPRIATE LICENCING INFORMATION FROM THE LOCAL
    AUTHORITIES)
    
    
    DUNCAN  THE_SALTWATER_COWBOY!!
      

    Maybe I can help answer a few of your questions.
 >   1.	WHAT IS THE SMALLEST PENN SENATOR REEL USED FOR TUNA FISHING
 >       (BLUFIN)(114, 115)? 
    
     If you are really going out for giants, I wouldn't even try with
    less than a 12/0 reel, with a 16/0 being preferred. If you do, you
    seriously run the risk of being spooled. "Horse mackerel" average
    better than 800 lbs in Newfoundland. They don't get that big without
    being smart. Unless your friend is a *great* boat handler, get the
    biggest reel you can afford. You may only have one chance; it has
    to be your best shot.
    
 >   2.  WHAT IS THE MINIMUM LINE WEIGHT?
  
     Again, due to their size, 80 lb tackle is light tackle fishing.
    130 lb is preferred. Factor into the equation how well you can handle
    fighting a fish for a couple of hours and having it part the line.
    
    Questions as to where exactly to fish are better left to someone
    else. I don't know enough about the area to tell you where. TALK
    TO THE LOCALS.
    
 >   6.  HOW MUCH CHUM SHOULD BE USED OVER HOW LARGE AN AREA?
  
    Chum should be done in the following manner: cut baitfish into small
    chunks. Toss four or five chunks into the water. When they disappear
    from view, toss in some more. It's a tedious process, but it may
    bring you the results you want. I don't know that chunking is the
    preferred method up there though. I thought they trolled daisy chains
    of mackerel mostly. Can't hurt to try though.
      
 >   7.  IS COD O.K TO USE FOR CHUMMING?         
    
    No! First of all, cod is human food. Second of all, it is not nearly
    oily enough to attract fish from a large enough area. You want to
    use mackerel or herring up there. Besides, you want to chum with
    the tuna's primary food source(s) and cod ain't it!!
    
 >   8.  HOW BIG A HOOK SHOULD BE USED ON 50LB AND 80LB TEST LINE?
    	SINGLE, DOUBLE OR TREBLE?
     
     You want to use a fairly small hook, but it must be XXX strong.
    I don't remember exactly what size we used, but it wasn't a shark
    size hook. I don't think you should go more than 8/0, but I could
    use a little help on the actual size. Tuna vets? Single hooks is
    usually the rule.
    
    Good luck.
    
    The Doctah (who's_looking_to_catch_tuna_of_his_own_this_year!!!)
    

    re .-1
    Doctah,
    
    Where do you live, and where/who do you go out with?
    
    Joe A.
    Manchester, NH
    Stellwagon Bank, Mass

    As far as reels go I though I would pass this along. I bought a
    PENN 50W international that hold 800 yrds of 50 and 600 of 80 and
    I am not sure I want to even try to use it for giants. Go at least
    the 12/0 with 80lb as your minimum. Since I will be trying for
    Giants for the first time this year I have pretty much decided
    that if I should be lucky enough to get a hook up I do not want
    to lose it, this probably means handlines for now.
    
    Capt. Codfish
    
    P.S Don't even think of wasting cod and using it for chum. Joe and I covered
    most of stellwagon bank looking for cod and the place is fished
    out!!! 

    	I made up 4 hand lines this past winter. I got them all tucked
    away in the barn. The Mackerel have arrived and I am getting ready
    to bring home a bunch for bait. I know that fresh bait is better
    but I intend to freeze up several buckets of chunked up Macks for
    the lean times this Summer. I also added 600' of anchor rode to
    my normal 200' in the hopes of some deep water anchoring. I am now
    in the process of rigging up a quick release for my anchor. Got my 
    license and lined up a crew. I think I am ready. Now where are the 
    fish?
    	I know the previous rambling didn't anwer many of the questions
    asked a few replies back but I guess it does kind of hint at a
    suggestion to start with handlines. I spent all of last year just 
    trying to absorb all I could about Tuna fishing. There is quite a bit 
    to learn and handlining at least keeps the investment down while
    you are learning - not anywhere near zero though :^). It is also
    one of the most productive means of fishing Tuna.
    	As far as location goes, I don't think there is a real preference.
    I have my eye on a few spots offshore where the bottom comes up to
    somewhere around 200' or less so I can try to anchor. If you troll or 
    drift you don't have to worry about that of course but I think if you
    find a temperature break where the water starts to warm up and stay
    in that current your chances are better (unfortunately I don't have
    a surface water temp guage yet).
    Gotta Go
    Paul  

    	I just reread <.78> and have a few more comments. 
    
    	1. The Gulf Stream gets fairly close to shore in the Canadian 
    Maritimes (Sp?). If you can get into it that would be the best place
    to fish.
    
    	2. A fellow here (Augusta Me.) goes to Prince Edward Island each
    Summer and he has stated that he believes that the types of legal
    Tuna fishing are more limited than down here. Harpooning is outlawed
    and handlining may also be illegal.
    
    	3. If you are only going for a few days, you might be better
    off chartering a boat. The equipment is BIG BUCKS and the charter
    fees up there are cheap, especially when you convert from Canadian
    to U.S. dollars. The chartering Capt will provide the tackle bait 
    and knowhow. Perhaps your friend knows someone in the business and 
    could get an even better rate.
    
    	4. I don't remember when you said you will up there but I think
    the best Tuna fishing is in August.
    
    Good luck and have fun
    Paul

    
    GENTLEMEN,
    
    THANKS VERY MUCH FOR ANSWERING MY QUESTIONS.  FROM WHAT YOU'VE TOLD
    ME THERE'S A LOT MORE TO IT THAN MEETS THE EYE!  
    THE IDEA OF HANDLINING IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE INTERESTING.  MAYBY
    YOU COULD GIVE ME A RUNDOWN FROM THE HOOK TO THE END OF THE ROPE
    AS TO WHAT I WOULD NEED (I'VE SENT FOR INFORMATION ON RULES AND
    REGS BUT I HAVEN'T RECEIVED IT YET - SO THIS MAY NOT BE OUT OF THE
    QUESTION).
    THE OTHER QUESTION I HAVE IS REGARDING THE PENN 50SW REELS (AND
    OTHERS IN THAT SERIES).  FOR ME TO ORDER A 50SW UP HERE I'M LOOKING
    AT "MEGA, MEGA BUCKS"!  CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT YOU WOULD PAY FOR
    SUCH AS BEAST IN U.S GREENBACKS?
                         
    WITH REGARDS TO THE GENTLEMAN WHO MENTIONED GOING ON A LOCAL TUNA
    CHARTER, THAT IS A GOOD IDEA EXCEPT THEY DON'T HAVE ANY WHERE I'M
    GOING (PLACENTIA BAY).  THE ONLY PLACE IN NEWFOUNLAND THAT HAS TUNA
    CHARTERS IS OUT OF CONCEPTION BAY AND THE EASTERN SIDE OF THE AVALON
    PENINSULA.  THE OTHER REASON I DON'T GO ON A CHARTER IS THAT I HAVE
    A BOAT AND SKIPPER AT MY DISPOSAL FOR THE COST OF FUEL AND GRUB
    ONLY!  A HARD DEAL TO TURN DOWN! :>
    
    THANKS AGAIN FOR THE HELP,
    
    DUNCAN	THE_SALTWATER_COWBOY
    

    
    RE: .84 and others...
    
    	PLEASE do NOT use ALL capital letter...
    
    	Thanks
    	Gene

    A PENN 50TW (wide single speed) can be had for 300 us dollars. An
    80TW is around $450 and a 130 around $600. The 12/0 or 14/0 senators
    run around $200-$250.
    
    
    Bruce

    Re a couple back>
    	Note 152.6 describes how a handline is made.

    
    re: note 152.6 on Hand Lining
    
    
    Thanks for the Hand Line note number.  Do you think that a wire (thin 
    Aircraft cable) leader would be a good addition to such a rig?
    I assume that giant Bluefin Tuna don't usually stay down at the
    525' depth very long and that they don't travel at 60MPH for very
    far...do they? :>
    
    Tight Lines,
              
    Duncan  
    
    The_Saltwater_Cowboy
                
     

    re .88>
    Cowboy,
    	I have my lines rigged with 400# mono leader. I forget the exact
    length but I think it is 30'. I'll check when I get home unless
    someone else replies. Tuna have EXCELLENT eyesight and are very
    leader shy so I don't think wire is used too often.
    Paul 

    Saltwater_Cowboy-
    
     I have a price list here for a place in NJ that sells the Penn
    stuff you could probably use. The prices here are as low as I've
    seen them.
    
              International 50TW         $ 319.99  
                    "       50SW           394.99
                    "       80TW           479.99
                    "       80SW           599.99
                    "       130            672.99
    
              Senator  115   9/0            86.99
                       116  12/0           164.99
                       117  14/0           222.99
                       118  16/0           234.99
    
     I hope this helps. I can give you rod prices or Shimano prices
    if you want.
    
     The Doctah

    Now the Doctah has un question. Is there any licensing required
    for private individuals for taking giants? I was under the impression
    that some sort of federal license was needed. I thinks its either
    free or $25 for the boat. How would one obtain a license of this
    nature?                                  
    
     Joe- do you have a tail rope? How about a shotgun or bang stick?
    We'll need something like that if we get a shark on Saturday.
    
    The Doctah...

    Doc
    
    Got the flying gaff and plenty of rope to use for a tail rope. 
    To get giants, you need an atlantic bluefin permit for the boat.
    All set there.  I've just gotta get the Mass permit to sell the
    giants (optimistic son-of-a-gun).  I think that'll run me a $100.
    Also goes in the name of the boat/capt I believe.                   
    
    As for Sat, unless its a mako or a porbeagle (I think their edible),
    if we get lucky enough to pick a shark, we'll just play catch and
    release.  If it is a keeper, we'll tail rope it off of the bow rail. 
    Anybody with any fishing news to help us out?

    Doctah,          
    
    Thanks for the prices,
    could you tell me the name, address and phone number of the outfit 
    that sells the Penn reels.  Do you know if they have Mail-Order to 
    Canada?
                                      
    At the prices you listed, the big reels are affordable.  If I told
    you what they wanted for a 50SW in "Canuck Bucks" you'd tilt your
    head back and have a hearty laugh (50SW $1200.00 CDN).  When I've 
    ordered fishing gear from the States, it usually means adding 50%
    to the U.S price to get it to my door (duty, tax, Dollar, etc.).
    It works out in my favour about 1/2 the time, the other 1/2 being
    more expensive than what I would pay here.  I guess it pays to shop
    around!
    
    
    Tight Lines
    
    Duncan   Saltwater_Cowboy
                       
    P.S
    If you do have the price on a matching rod for a 16/0 reel?                   
    

    For 16/0 reel you will need a 130lb class trolling rod. This tackle
    is stricktly fighting chair stuff. Rod and reel will weigh on the
    order of 15 pounds.
    
    Bruce

    Cowpoke of the ocean-
    
     The name of the place whose prices I quoted is:
    
     Fisherman's Headquarters
     Route 72
     Ship Bottom, NJ
     08008
     (609) 494-5739
    
     It says here that they ship anywhere. I hope you live near there.
    The Penn price list is in the May SaltWater Sportsman on page 198.
    The biggest pole that they have listed is the 3090ARA 9/0 aluminum-
    butt Penn senator rod for $ 129.99. I'm sure if you call them and
    they have something bigger, they'll let you know. Advertising space
    costing what it does, they can't list their entire inventory.
    
     They take MC and Visa. It also says in fine print to 'mention this
    ad to receive prices.' They also make custom rods.
    
     Tell us how you make out with the equipment.
    
     The Doctah

    Doctah,
    
    I work out of the Kanata facility 15 min west of Ottawa in Ontario.
    If any of you gentlemen are looking for information on freshwater
    fishing in the best freshwater fishing province in Canada, I'd be
    happy to oblige.  Ontario has every type of freshwater fishing EXCEPT,
    Tuna! (unless they wander down into Hudson Bay - Brrrrrrr).
          
    Bass, Trout, Northern, Muskie, etc., and plenty of them!
                                                     
                                        
    The_Saltwater_Cowboy
    

    MAC's in NJ will be those prices stated. The number is elsewhere
    in this notes file. I have ordered 2 reels from them and had no
    problem.
    
    Bruce

    Joe,
    
    No need for those high powered weapons, if done correctly any shark
    can be taken with nothing more than a Crossman BB gun. I'm not sure
    of the exact spot but it's somewhere behind the last molar and up
    two inches.
    
    
    Cap't Squid

    Cap'n Squid-
    
     Have you ever caught a shark? Do you know what 200 lbs of shark
    thinks about laying quietly in the water while you try to aim your
    BB gun in 5 foot waves? The bb's we use are about 3/4 of an inch
    around, and it still takes the sharks a long time to die. We used
    a bang stick on a big blue last year (12 guage slug). The captain
    popped him in the general area you are talking about. It blew a
    whole clear through his head- about 5-6 inches around. It still
    took more than a half hour for the shark to stop trying to eat us.
    
     He didn't even know he was supposed to be dead. The only reason
    he coudn't bite us effectively was that we had a meat hook in his
    mouth. After about 45 minutes of watching him thrash around, the
    mate started cutting him up. That's the only reason he died then-
    cause he had no insides. Nonetheless, his buddies thought his liver
    etc was quite tasty.
    
    Real men live to tell about it!! :-}
    
    the doctah
    
    
    

    There was an article this week in one of the TV "magazines" about
    three fishermen in Hawaii who had a run in with a 19 ft shark while
    in a 19 ft boat.   
    
    Shark attacked the boat and they said that they could hear the teeth
    working on the lower end and prop.   Shark got hold on engine and
    then shook boat like fish.
    
    They managed to hit shark with Bang stick and saw shark floating
    down.   
    
    When they atepted to start engine the transom separated from the
    boat and the boat took on water and sank.  They used a fish box
    in the boat for flotation and swam the 9 miles to shore.
    
    They had another run in with sharks but scared them away by pounding
    on water with their hands.
    
    BTW there is an old Hawaiian Legend that says that the Shark God
    lives in Pearl Harbor and will not allow attack of humans in her
    area.   There is no record of any human ever being attacked by sharks
    in the harbor.
    

    The captain obviously missed the spot.
    
    Cap't Baitfish

    re several back>
    	The Mako and Porbeagle are very good eating. The Blue Shark
    is edible but I don't care for the texture. Too much moisture, 
    more like saturated meat. Maybe with the right cooking method it
    would be better but I don't bother keeping any unless they are damaged
    and will die anyway. BTW - If you are going to release them, NOAA
    has a tagging program to aid in their shark research. I do it and
    it feels good to help rather than kill off the species. I'll try to
    get the info and post it here next week.
    

    I had some blue shark last year. It was pretty good, but not as
    good as swordfish. I've never tried mako or porbeagle, but with
    some luck, I will this year. The blue shark we had was cooked on
    the grill. Not bad. My cats loved it!
    
     How bad's the weather going to be on the ocean tomorrow? Sounds
    to me like it might start a little wet, but it should clear up.
    I'm more concerned about the wind (and corresponding seas).
    Who's got the scoop. We'll be going off the north shore around Cape
    Ann.
    
    The doctah (who's_never_gonna_get_to_sleep_tonight)
                                                         
    

    Is menhaden (pogies) good tuna chum? How does it compare with
    herring or mackerel.
    
    Getting ready. First tuna trip in about 2 weeks.
    
    Bruce

     Menhaden is wonderful chum. It generally is difficult to get enough
    of for a full day of chunking. What works well, however, is to chum
    with frozen fish (mackerel, herring, whiting, etc.) then put out
    live or fresh chunks of pogie. Don't misunderstand me- the frozen
    fish should be thawed first. But the natural oils of menhaden create
    an excellent slick. Be sure to bury the hook in the bait. Change
    bait often. and thank the Great Manituna when charlie comes through!
    
     The doctah

    Is it necessary to chum when fishing for the smaller Tuna species?
    If so, do you use smaller chunks (of Mackerel, Herring etc.)?
    
    Do Tuna ever bite tackle?
    
    
    Salt Water Cowboy
    

    A couple of harpoon questions....
    
    I started making a harpoon this weekend and did pretty well, I bought
    the darts, iron rod and brass head and a 12 foot close pole. I tapered
    the clode pole and screwed on the brass head...so far so good.
    Questions: Does anyone finish the wood in any way to help preserve
    it or keep it from drying out? If so what do you use? Next, what
    is the prefered method for running the line up the pole, it
    needs to be tight enough to hold the dart on but must break away
    easily once the fish is stuck. Last how sharp to you  make the
    dart? They come all blunt and smooth, seems to me that there should
    at least be a shrp point for penetration.
    
    Thanks,
    Capt SpearChucker

Capt Spearchucker,
	I use rubber bands to hold the line on the shaft of my small cockpit
harpoon. It works most of the time but sometimes, if you don't keep it tight
enough, the dart falls off just when you are ready to stick a fish. Its 
something you have to constantly check to make sure the dart hasn't started 
to loosen up. 
	Also I file the dart edges to make them as sharp as possible. When 
I got a large Mako to the side of the boat last year, one of the crew stuck
him and put the dart clean through him and out the other side. Needless to 
say the fish stayed stuck. I don't know how much the dart sharpness 
contributed to the full penetration, versus good old adrenaline, but it
certainly didn't hurt.

Paul

      I use to work on a swordfishing boat, here's what we use to do.
    All our poles were aluminum, so I can't help with how to finish
    the wooden ones.  We ran the line up down the pole and secured it with tape.
    Just enough tape to hold it securely.  Keep the darts SHARP.  Take
    a file to it, don't use it out of the box.  Another thing to do
    is make sure that the dart does not corode to rod.  We lost a big
    fish one day cause the dart was coroded to the rod and the dart
    ended up pulling out when the pole didn't release. 8*(  Coil your line
    in a laundry basket, and once you have stuck a fish throw it all over
    the rail, followed by your ball, weights, and highflyer.  Th line will
    pay out by itself. Make sure there is nothing between the rail and
    your gear, for if there is anything that could possibly foul it, it
    will.  Good luck.     
    
    Jeff

    Got some info I thought was interesting to pass along.
    
    I just talked to a guy in Mass Marine Fisheries about Tuna Licenses.
    The story is you need a $100 boat license to sell fish that you
    land in the state. A $50 personal license is only good for you and
    not for others on your boat. This means is someone helps you, ie.
    handles the boat, gaff or whatever he must be licensed. So unless
    you take other people with the individual license you must buy
    the boat license to cover you and your mate of the day. But, here
    is an interesting note...if you sell the fish outside mass (or NH)
    territorial waters (more than 3 miles) then you only need the free
    federal permit. So if a buy boat comes out to buy your fish while
    you are on the high seas no license is needed from either state.
    As soon as you get inside 3 miles you need a state license to sell.
    The guy also noted that they will really be cracking down on tuna
    sales this year and if you are caught trying to land that tuna inside
    the state with no license they can and will take your boat away
    from you.
    
    
    Bruce
                      

I understand that people that sell to the "Buy Boats" aka Moonies, are
not so popular with the regular tuna fleet. You might say so what, well
if you get into trouble out there and are known to sell to moonies, then
don't expect to get any help from anyone. That includes getting out of you
way when you have a fish on. Just thought I would pass that along if you
care. One other use for the "Buy boats" is to exceed your legal limit.

Rich

    Excuse my ignorance for I am mainly a fresh water person (due to
    inland location for my whole life) but what is done with a bluefin
    tuna when sold for [2|3|4|...|12|] $/lb?  I seem to recall a can
    of tuna (I know this is generally albacore) is rather cheap and tuna
    tuna steaks (perhaps these too are albacore) are rarely more than
    $5/lb.
    
    Thanks for the info,
    Tim
    

    Re -1>
    Tim,
    	The big bucks Tuna is flown to Japan for Sushi. The Tuna is
    flown to Japan within a day so that it will arive fresh. They pay top
    dollar for prime giant bluefin only. The price goes up as the season
    goes on because the fish get fatter (more oil in the meat), which
    is more desireable. The cost per pound in Japan obviously is
    astronomical. Even when sold as sushi where each portion is very
    small it probably is still considered a luxury.
    Paul  

    	I vaguely remember a special technique used for cleaning tuna
    that the Japanese use. It is meant to get as much blood out of the
    fish as possible and involves over a dozen steps (not all of which
    I can remember).

    Before going any further I warn you now that the following text
    carries a 3G rating (gory, graphic, and gruesome) so hit NEXT UNSEEN
    if you tend to be squeamish about such things.
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
        Some of the things I remember was to:
    
    	Cut the tail off between the 2nd and 3rd spike on back from
    	tail. Aside from letting the fish bleed, it severes the rear
    	of the spinal cord eliminating most/all thrashing

        Make about a 1" deep cut just in back of each pectoral fin. This
    	is as I remember where the main arteries to the body were located.

        Slice the lower hinge part of the gill plates insuring NOT to cut 
    	the heart (there was another cut here but I forget exactly where).
    	The heart sits just in back of the part your cutting above.
    
    	Let fish bleed for a few minutes
    
    	Slice open gut in normal fashion but don't remove guts and do
    	not disturb fishes heart yet.
    
	At this point you could somehow grab the gills and pull which
    	if done right, removes all guts in one shot.

    	THIS WAS THE UNUSUAL PART
    
        Remove the cheek of flesh on the fishes forehead. This allows
    	access to the tip of the spinal cord

    	Insert a length of #400 leader wire down length of spinal column

    
    The above procedure involves keeping the fishes heart pumping as long
    as possible so that blood will be pumped out of the fish. The part
    about the wire down the spinal cord is to destroy the nervous system.
    Evidently, the nervous system is responsible for maintaining the
    fishes body temperature to some degree. It also does this automatically
    even after the fish is technically dead. A chemical gets released
    that the fish produces which supposedly cooks the fish from the
    inside out when the fish is placed on ice and its body temperature
    starts dropping. There is probably a few other steps I missed but
    this is the brunt of it as I remember. I think the original article
    was in one of last years Maine Sportsman papers.
    
    RAYJ

    Re .-1
    
    There was an article in the New England Fisherman last year detailing
    the same steps.  I spoke to some Japanese buyers last year on how
    they wanted the fish.  They told me to cut the heart, with a slice
    in the gills, and then tail rope it so that it'll bleed.  Then get it
    into the docks ASAP.  Oh, yeah, keep it as cool as possible.  Either
    with water, or better, if you can ice it down.  I guess the best thing
    to do is check with whoever you think will be buying your fish on how 
    best to prepare it.
         
    Joe A.

    I'm sure a few of us will be looking for tuna gear shortly. I've been
    looking for some 300lb mono with a dia. of 1.56 mm (.061 in.). I've
    only been able to find this size in clear or blue-gray. I'd like to
    get some in green if possible. So, if someone finds this size/color
    could you please let me know. 
                                                               
    Steve

    Why the insistence on green? Wouldn't clear or blue-gray do as well?
    What color were you using last year? Where do you keep your boat?
    
     The doctah

    Steve,
    
       I will be heading up to New England Fishing gear in portsmouth
    soon. If you have not checked there let me know  and I will see
    what they have. Also have you done any inshore cod around there
    lately? I was thinking of launching out of rye to try one more
    time to fill the freezer before going full time to giants.
    
    Bruce

    Steve,
    
    I was out on Mon at NW corner of Stellwagon trolling.  Marked a
    couple of the big boys.  Heard one guy on the radio when he broke
    1 off trolling squid.  He started to give his #'s to a buddy, but 
    was stepped on.  From the # that I heard, I figure he was somewhere 
    NE of Halibut Pt.  He did say he was 1 1/2 hrs from the B-bouy.
    I'm gonna head back to the NW corner this Sat and give chunkin a
    shot.  I should probably troll some squid, but I'll see how things
    go.  Give me a shout if you come down my way.
    
    Joe A.
    kingfisher
    

    Well folks, 
    
    I'll provide a little update from south of the Islands. Monday was
    as glassy as its gets. Very few yellowfin around but there were
    some. We had several small groups right up to the boat... but....
    The "radio" boys say they weren't taking anything, trolled or
    bait etc. Contact was on the SE corner of the DUMP and East. A few
    sharks, lots of ocean sunfish, and a few whales about 10 miles south
    of NOMANS. At least there was something to watch out for on the
    way home. 
    
    Mike "OLD SOUL" 

    Re .-1
    
    Mike,
    
    Where were you fishing Monday, (S of the Dump?) and what were you
    using, and how big were the yellowfin?  Anything decent (>100 #'s)?
    Capt Baitfish and I are supposed to be in the Cuttyhunk marlin 
    tournament next weekend.  But I haven't heard very good reports
    from the area.  I've heard of plenty of yellowfin taken on squid
    rigs (just what I don't have) towards the canyons, but thats a little
    too far for me.  Have you heard any reports from the fingers, or
    the rose?  How about any water temp reports?  If things don't pick
    up, I don't know if it'll be worth the time and $$$ to bring the
    boat down.  Any good news?
    
    Thanks
    joe

    Well hear goes....
    
    SW corner of the DUMP and a little S, then Easterly.....
    Contact--- fish 50-75 # or so.... trolled green machines,
    psycho-squids, plastics skirts in black, green , red , hot pink,
    mackeral, etc, nothing - not even a look. Radio (70) says fish have
    plenty of bait- I didn't see much.... they talk about halfbeaks??
    Radio also say they tried mackeral, scup, etc, nothing...
    
    I'm tired of chasing fish finding 'em, and watchin'. New tactics
    time. 
    
    Oh - I start at the 750 line - run 15 mins. try a new spot, same
    plot, vary speed - 3-7 knots. Game plan is to not get bored runnin'
    the boat.... different lures, etc. (translate some of that into
    - no water temp meter), but the radio says 65ish at the fingers
    67ish at the dump and south... Radio says most catches were singles
    about 50-75 lbs, 1 report gad 5 fish, but????
    
    Well I got a new plan for the next trip. Live scup and poagies,
    chuck bait/chum, find the fish, blitiz with chunks, live line a
    scup/poagies, wait to weigh 'em in. haha.
    
    I'll let you know if its bogus, but I can't catch any less fish.
    
    
    Mike "OLD SOUL"

    re: .123
    
    > ....they talk about halfbeaks??
    
    They are probably refering to balao...also called ballyhoo,
    spindlebeaks. These are usually 'imported' from Florida. 
    These are rigged for trolling, often with a skirt. Saltwater Sportsman
    usually has directions on rigging balao at least once a year.
    
    Bagel

re .123
Thanks for the info Mike.  We'll be down there Thursday to scout the area. 
Maybe give some sharks a try.  Friday and Saturday we'll be out at the dump,
fishing in the tournament.  Word from the guy running the tournament is that 
the water has started to warm up and the've seen some white marlin and 
benn getting yellowfin these past few days.  Did you try any of the soft squid 
bars, daisy chains or tuna clones.  He mentioned these lures.  I'll make sure 
the temp guage is hooked up tomorrow.  If you're out by the dump, or Cuttyhunk
harbor, give us a shout.  Grady White Offshore 24, MS 4092 WF, kingfisher.
We'll be the one with the fighting lawn chair.

thanks again

joe a. and capt squid (aka rick e.) 
    

re .123
Thanks for the info Mike.  We'll be down there Thursday to scout the area. 
Maybe give some sharks a try.  Friday and Saturday we'll be out at the dump,
fishing in the tournament.  Word from the guy running the tournament is that 
the water has started to warm up and the've seen some white marlin and 
benn getting yellowfin these past few days.  Did you try any of the soft squid 
bars, daisy chains or tuna clones.  He mentioned these lures.  I'll make sure 
the temp guage is hooked up tomorrow.  If you're out by the dump, or Cuttyhunk
harbor, give us a shout.  Grady White Offshore 24, MS 4092 WF, kingfisher.
We'll be the one with the fighting lawn chair.

thanks again

joe a. and capt squid (aka rick e.) 
    

    re: .125,.126,.127
    
    Having a little problem there Capt' Butterfingers?

    re: .128
    
    Fingers ok, O.S....

    Has anyone heard of a tuna navagational unit called the 
    Northstar 800X put out by Digital?  How effective is it compared
    to other units?  Is Digital DEC?
    
    Mike

    I just received noticed effective aug 27 that the limit is
    going from 1 tuna - 2 tuna. This is effect for the class license
    I use to have not necessarrily all vessels and all licenses.
    
    It seems the tonage of catch is way below what is allotted.
    
    Bear

    This must be for the general catagory. They had to up the harpoon
    quota from 60 to 75 short tons because returns showed that the 
    quota was already full. I would expect that in your notice they
    are closing the harpoon catagory sometime soon.
    
    Steve

    re limit up to 2/day
    
    I just got the notice yesterday.  The general catagory is now allowed
    2 fish/day until the end of the season, or the limit is reached
    or changed again.  Nothing in it about the harpoon class.
    
    re: .-3 tuna nav unit ?
    
    the northstar that you are referring to is a LORAN.  The company
    is not DEC.  It is one of the best lorans on the market, but costs
    over $2k.  

    Just to let you fellow noters know it can be done, I captured a
    705 lb. tuna last Thursday. Its been a long time coming this year,
    I figure I had close to 10 days fishing time in. With some good
    weather maybe I can find one more dumb fish.
    
    Now I have to spend some of that hard earned money on a Class A
    EPIRB. I appears that the back in 1986 a law was passed that says:
    "Any fishing vessel operating beyond three miles, regardless of
    its size or species being fished, must carry a Coast Guard approved
    EPIRB." This goes into effect on Oct. 3, 1988. I call the CG in
    Portsmouth NH to see if a small sport boat fishing for tuna would
    come under this reg. The answer, if you sell the fish, you need
    the EPIRB. There are more regs. being worked out to improve fishing
    vessels safety.
    
    Steve

	Congratulations Steve. Where were you fishing? Jeffrey's or Stellwagon?
As far as the new regulations go, I'm afraid I'm going to be a lawbreaker for 
a while. I'm having enough trouble just trying to keep the gas tank full, let 
alone buy more gadgets. 
	As far as my own tuna fishing goes, I haven't been able to put in 
enough time to feel like I am giving it a seriuos attempt but I haven't 
quit yet. The fog has been the worst I've seen and the forcasts are always
calling for high seas (at least high enough to keep me at home). The fish 
should still hang around for another week or so. Maybe I'll get out once or 
twice more.

Paul

    I was fishing Stellwagon. I've been leaving my boat at the Cape
    Ann Marina. That saves me aroung 20 miles by water. As for the EPIRB,
    I guess I can't complain, its a good idea to have on onboard. I
    have a class C on the boat now. I wish I had bought the class A
    in the first place. Can't win them all.
    
    Steve

    Paul-
    
     where do you keep your boat? I was at Boothbay harbor this past
    weekend, and I kept an eye peeled for the Joanie B, but I didn't
    spot her. We went on Capt Fishes' 2 hr tour on the Pink Lady. Saw
    some seals, osprey etc. i guess the blues are still around up there.
    So the tuna must also be still around. 
    
    Congrats Steve. And only 10 times out?!!! Joe and I have put in
    alot of time, but so far no luck. Joe's in California right now.
    I hope he gets back in time to fish this weekend. Unfortunately,
    alot of our time was spent before the fish came in real well.
    
     How about the poop on what you were using, how long it took, etc.
    What did they pay for the fish and where did you sell it? I am
    extremely jealous you sly dog!!!!
    
    The Doctah

    Re .134
    
    Okay, whats a EPIRB?
    
    Ed
    

    I can't remember what the acronym stands for, but basically it tells
    the position of your boat in the event of a calamity.
    
    Electronic
    Position
    I  (can't remember)
    Radio 
    Beacon
                       
    The Doctah

    re .137>
    Doctah,
    	I wasn't on the water this weekend, too many family committments
    etc. Also the marine forcast was not good but those that went out
    said that it was flat calm on Saturday. I'm trailering the Joanie - B 
    this year and I usually launch further down the coast in Potts Harbor. 
    If I knew you were up there maybe I could have swung by and given you 
    the tour myself. 
    Paul

    I believe EPIRB stands for "Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon".
    It is a radio transmitter on a special frequency that transmits
    a serial number.  Any transmission on that frequency means emergency,
    the serial number lets you know who is in trouble, and radio direction
    finders (Coast Guard or other emercency unit) can "easily" locate the 
    person in trouble.  EPRIB's are part of emergency equipment on boats 
    and aircraft, and are carried by some hikers/backpackers.

    
    Steve - Congratulations on the big TUNA, sounds like lots of FUN!
    Could you give us noters and idea as to what the cost $$ is for
    an EPIRB...
    
    Also did you sell the TUNA on the spot ? How nuch does it go for
    ?  Just curious
    
    -MIke
    

    I ordered a Class A EPIRB from American Marine. The model is ACR
    RBL-14. I was quoted a price of around $270. After talking with
    a bunch of people who are also checking prices, I seem to have found
    a good deal. I hope I heard the right price over the phone. I'll soon
    find out, it should be here by Friday. Boat US has them for $310.
    
    I sold the tuna through a fish dealer in Gloucester, (I can't spell
    the name), which ended up at Portsmouth Co-op. We hope to get $9.00
    X 530 dressed weight for the fish. We had a little problem when
    we were towing the fish. There was a good chop running and the fish
    got cut by the prop. They didn't think i would affect the price.
    I won't believe that until I get check in hand.
                                                                    
    Steve

    Ouch...I thought I saw epirb's from bliss around $120? Maybe these
    were the class C? Oh well, more money into the ole boat, but at
    least a safty device is easyier to justify to the misses than another
    fishin rod.
    
    Bruce

    M&M Tackle is having a prefered customer sale. 20% off all items
    in their catalog. So for anyone that wants to pick up a squid or
    mackerel rig for next summer at better prices, this is you chance.
           
    I believe their phone is in one of the previous replies. If not
    let me know, I'll post it.
    
    Steve

    steve,
    
    do you know the price on their 11" unrigged squid?  if not, could
    you post their phone # and i'll check it out.  i'll rig the daisy 
    chain or spreader bar myself to save some $$$.  
    
    by the way, have you or anybody heard any news about danvers port
    tackle?  are they still in business, or what?
    
    thanks
    joe

    steve please post phone # and address, squids make great stocking
    stuffers!
    
    Bruce

    M&M Tackle, Inc.
    P.O. Box 2154
    Hyannis Ma. 02601
    508-778-6619
    
    	12" unrigged squid are:
    
    	6012B,A, or N   12" Amber or Natural	5.25
    	6012BCM		12" Clear/Mylar		5.50
    	6012BG		12" Glow		5.50
    
    	6000		36" Spreader Bar for 	6.00
    			12" Squid
    
    	The above prices are before the 20% off Sale.
    
    
    Steve

	Tuna fever,

	What happened to all the tuna fisherman in this notes file ?

	I've got the FEVER. Time to get out those baskets. Put on new
	shocker lines, leaders, hooks, etc. Sharpen the harpoon darts
	and get ready for mister big. He's just right around the
	corner. It won't be long (probably June) before they stick
	the first fish (probably Cape Cod Bay). The tuna fish
	generally show up on Jefferies and up in Maine by the
	third week in June. Usually they are all harpoon or
	rod and reel fish. Handlining generally doesn't start
	until July. One year I got my first hand line fish the
	18th of July at the north east corner (Stellwagon).

	I don't plan on doing anything different or new this year.
	I'll probably do mostly harpooning, with a little handlining
	down at Stellwagon or up at the fingers on Jefferies. The
	boat is all setup and ready to go. Just have to get my new
	engine installed and it goes in the water. The only thing
	added new to the boat this year is a new 220 Hp diesel. Last
	year I added a 20' pulpit (third pulpit in three years).
	I finally have a pulpit which is long enough.

	Just thought I'd spark some tuna interest!

	=JV

    Hi John
    
    I'm ready and waiting.  I'm going to be handlining either jeffries or
    stellwagon, and dragging plastics looking for them.  Got some new fake
    squid to try.  Also picked up a penn 10/0 to help out.  And lastly I'm
    adding a new live bait well to the boat this spring.  I'm really
    anxious to get out this year.  Last year I was sent to palo alto at the
    beginning of sept. and wasn't able to get back and fishing until the
    2nd week of oct.  Maybe this'll be my lucky year.  
    
    Hey Steve, get the new boat yet?  And have you been out for cod yet?  I
    hope to get in the water next weekend if the marina cooperates.
    
    Joe
    

    My new boat is in my driveway, a 25 Pro-Line. It was only 1 week
    late. That might be some kind of record. Now comes the fun part
    of rigging, 2- vhf's, 2- depthfinders, radar, stereo, loran , etc.
    Should be in the water the first week of May. I've had my old boat
    out for a few rides, but I haven't wet a line. From what I've heard
    the cod fishing is real slow.
    
    Steve

    
     Steve,
    
       Please post a note when the codfishing picks up so I can plan a
     day charter before the boats get booked. Who do you think is the
     better out of Seabrook/Hampton for party boats ?? 

    
     Thanks
         Kevin

    Re .149>
    
    JV,
    	The fever isn't there yet for me. Too many other things in
    competition for my attention. I am starting to get out of the 
    Winter doldrums though (as evidenced by my increased participation
    in this notes file) and it won't be long before I plan my first
    trip. 
    	I don't think I will be as anxious to get out there early
    as last year. I've got vivid memories of freezing my ... (insert
    appropriate body parts) off trying to get the first case of pneumonia
    of the season. I've got plenty of time before the Mackerel arrive.
    (Maybe wisdom is finally coming to the old weathered mind.)
    	I plan to pick up where I left off, handlining on Platts Bank
    when the weather is right. I may do a little trolling too but that 
    remains to be seen.
    	Boy isn't this a ho hum reply. I guess thats how I feel, but
    just wait till the first Tuna is sighted. You won't be able to keep
    me away from the chum bucket. ugh  ;^)
    
                                                               
    Paul

    I'm getting ready for the Tuna season and would like to know where
    to aply for the license that will cover me Tuna. Also do you need
    a license for yellow fin Tuna, I know you need one for blue fin.
    I have been Tuna fishing for a few years but mostly on other peoples
    boats so I never had to think about a license before.
    
    Thanks,
    Tom

    re.-1 
    
    	The address is in 296.10. I don't know about the yellowfin.
    They aren't under a quota like bluefin. You may not need a permit
    unless you sell them. 
               
    	Rumor has it that a boat out on Jefferies stuck a 300-400 lb
    bluefin yesterday. I heard some broken talk on the VHF last night.
    Tuna fever is about to begin...                                   
    
    Steve

    re .-2
    you don't need a license to catch or sell yellowfin in mass (yet).  if
    you plan on selling catching/selling yellowfin in ny, then you need a
    license.  
    
    re. -1
    hi steve,
    i heard about some jumpers behind the draggers last week on the nw
    corner.  i think that the guy i was talking too was referring to
    jeffries tho.  how's the boat?
    
    joe
    

    I guess its time to start bringing the 'stick' on my offshore
    runs. Oh boy, oh boy I can't wait for those 12 hour days, cutting
    up 50lbs of herring and throwing it over the side, fighting the dogs
    and praying to the tuna god for just one pickup.
    
    Yeah tuna fishing is fun....wrong it is hard work and nothing else.
    
    See you on the NW Corner.
    
    Capt. Codfish

    The Tuna season has arrived in Jersey!!!!
    
    MANY giants and even more mediums have been landed out at 
    the Texas Tower and Bacardi Wreck area. These areas are about 
    2/3 of the way out to the edge of the shelf.
    
    Bagel

>    MANY giants and even more mediums have been landed out at 
>    the Texas Tower and Bacardi Wreck area. These areas are about 
>    2/3 of the way out to the edge of the shelf.
    
    Rod and reel or harpoon?
    
    The Doctah (gettin that tuna itch, eh fellas?)

    re; .159
    
    Hey Doc...check the state (NJ)....We're REAL SPORTS...
    
    	ONLY rod & reelers down here.
    
    
    Bagel

    hey bagel
    
    wbout how many miles is it from the closest ramp to the texas tower and
    bacardi wreck?  and is a license (besides the federal permit) required
    to sell blufin/yellowfin required in nj?  
    
    Joe
    p.s.  from what i've heard, they're mostly getting'em on mack daisy
    chains

    Hello. Joe,Steve,Bruce,Dockta,Bagle, Etc.....
    
    When are you guys planning your first trip?
    
    Has anyone made the run to Wildcat Knoll? Looks like prime tuna
    hunting area.
    
    Lets get together for a multiboat trip in a couple of weeks, Whos
    up for it?   Dockta- Do you want to ride shotgun? 
    
    Come'on Bruce, let get busy building those sticks! 
    
                       Walt          "Rainbow Chaser"
    

    Let's GO!!!!!

Walt:

I'll crew with/for you and or Bruce or whoever.  I would love to see a giant
caught!  No boat, but a willing and able body to help out.

Tim

P.S. Are you going out Saturday?  I'm game!

    I'll post a note when I'm going off shore, not this weekend though.
    
                              Walt
    Z

    I'd like to get an idea of what types of rigs other people use for
    bluefin. I have a couple of handline setups made with rag rope,1200lb
    monel wire and tripled up mono and jap hooks. Not much luck with
    this setup?
    This year I intend to rig without wire and have a single 30 ft mono
    leader (Too Short? Too long?) going to a 750 lb swivel and then
    to 1/4" nylon braid rope
    I can vary my Mono leaders from 400 lb down to 150 lb going 300lb,250
    lb, 200lb. I have ordered 50 yrds of each size in smoke and black
    colors . What colors work best? What sizes? lenghts?
    
    Do you jig your lines slowly or simply let the bait hang off a float?
    
    Does anyone use live bait? I'm setting up two livewells for pogys,
    bluefish or whatever?
    
    What about hook size? Do you sew your hook into a whole herring?
    or just hook it on?
    
                              Walt
     

    hey steve,
    
    has you heard anything on the tuna yet?
    
    joe

    The stick boat out of Maine are picking away at the Bluefins. There
    are fish being seen almost everyday from Boon Island to the Fingers
    on Jeffries. I haven't heard of anyone hooking up on one. Its still
    a little early. Things start around the 3rd week of July. But
    everything is early this year, no macks left, bluefish everywhere.
    
    Steve

    
    
Walt,


------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regarding leader question>

	I'm no expert (still waiting for my first) but from what I've 
learned mono is the preferred leader material. Thirty feet is what was 
recommended to me and that's what I use. Three to four hundred pound
test is the standard but some prefer lighter (150#). I was told that
even though 150# sound like a lot, its easy to break due to the 
pressure exerted via the handline. You would probably get more hookups
with the lighter stuff though. (I think there is a recipe for a handline 
in an earlier note.)
	I don't know what color works best. I use clear. There is also 
green, blue and amber as well as the black. Black was not endorsed by
my source. (BTW - The only place I saw black leader was Outer Banks.
If that's your source, don't hold your breath. I never got my order,
but that's another story.) 
------------------------------------------------------------------------



-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  >  Do you jig your lines slowly or simply let the bait hang off a float?
   
	Hang them off floats, much like shark fishing. The further from the
boat, the deeper to set them. They should stay in amongst the chucks so they
must be deeper as they are set further away.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
  >  Does anyone use live bait? I'm setting up two livewells for pogys,
    bluefish or whatever?

	I use live bait whenever I can. Its the best in my book.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------    

=----------------------------------------------------------------------
  >  What about hook size? Do you sew your hook into a whole herring?
    or just hook it on?

	I use those ringed tuna hooks. I completely bury it in dead bait. I
usually use mackerel tails for dead bait. I hook live bait just like I do 
ice fishing, through the back just behind the dorsal fin. You can also hook
them through the nose or lips.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------


	I hope I helped. There are some noters out there that have had the
good fortune of landing some giants Maybe they will add something.

Regards
Paul

    HI PAUL and everyone else.
    
    I noticed you had troble getting Black Mono leader. I'll be sending
    you a package in the mail with info, Catalogs and price lists. I
    just became the New England Distrubiter for Triple Fish Mono line.
    It runs from 2 lb test all the way up to 900 lb test. And comes
    inlots of colors. Clear,pink, seagreen, grey, black and camo.
    
    This is premimun grade line at discount prices. Line & Leader.
    
    I also have a distrubuition line of Sampo/Rosco products, Prindle
    wire leader & tools. Smoker Lures, and am working on lines of Rods
    & reels.  All of this is Wholesale Only to dealers. However I can
    let you in for just a little over cost as long as I don't have dealers
    set up in your areas.
    
    Also avail are marine electronics & boat gear. If you need something
    call me for a quote.
    
                              Walt       Packer::gibson
    
                              Home Ph. (508) 957-5865

 Talking to people over the weekend, the tuna are here in force.

 Surfland Bait and Tackle (Plum Island)- four tuna stuck on friday.

 A guy who has his boat in Saco- 16 tuna stuck during the middle of last week.

 YYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Here fishy, fishy, fishy...

 The Doctah

    Well The Bluefin are definetly here!~  I thought that I had seen
    a couple of small ones last Sunday out on Stellwagon , Now I'm
    positive! A guy I work with here in HLO just told me his father-in-law
    caught an 80 & 125 lb Bluefin on Stellwagon using rubber Squid.
    
    Brought them in on Rod & Reel.        
    
    I'm ready! Gonna try to get out for dawn on Sunday. LOOK OUT CHARLIE!
    
                                     Rainbow Chaser
    
                                        Walt
    

    			{ Where are those Big Bluefin? } 
    
    I haven't heard any news about those big guy's lately, I just started
    here at DEC and read through this great notes file on Tuna. Now
    I have a terrible case of tuna fever! I read in an earlier note
    about being able to get into hand lining for around fifty bucks.
    Does that include floats and everything neccesary for using the
    hand line. What are the names of some of the better fishing supply
    (Deep Sea) places in the north 128 and 495 area. I have just moved
    here from Wisconsin and have no Idea where the best places to shop
    for my gear. Also I was wondering where to put in at to go out to
    Stellwagon? Would Stellwagon be as good a choice as any for a rookie
    to start fishing for tuna? Are there lists available of the various 
    Co-op's or places that will pay a fair price for your fish. What is a 
    flying gaff? another name for a dart? What channel on the radio
    do you DEC folk's normally hail each other on any particular one.
    I was planning on going out all day Sunday if possible. Were any
    of you going out to Stellwagon? Walt,Steve,Joe,Paul,Jeanne...
    Would love to hear from any of y'all. A special thanks to all of
    you that have taken the time to write, share your experiences and
    help each other out!  Thanks... Greg.
    
    Boat name:"The Outlaw"
    VAXmail  : proto3::devereaux or thoth::devereaux
    location : MLO 8-4 DTN 223-4118
                               
     

    re: -1
    
    I'll answer a few of your questions:
    
    I live in NH and buy must of my gear in Newington NH, NE Fishing
    Gear. You should be able to buy what you need anywhere along the
    northern 128 area. Be prepared to spend a few $ for all the little
    things you'll need. #400 lb mono, crimps, crimping tool. A good
    crimper is close to $100. They have cheeaper, but they can't be
    adjusted. 
    A flying gaff has a dart built into the end, so it won't pull out.
    Your better off getting a harpoon/dart setup.
    As for selling a fish, Tri-Coastal Gloucester is on VHF CH 11.
    The Moonies might have a buy boat on the bank. There are other
    places down there,, check the yellow pages.
    
    Good luck
    
    Steve

    re .174>
    	I also got my gear at New England Fishing Gear. Its located near
    the Portsmouth Circle. Coming North on Rt 95 take the Portland Circle
    exit. Go 3/4 around the circle (don't remember the Rt no...201? 202?)
    Go about 1/2 mile and turn right immediately after a car dealership.
    Go 100 yds or so and turn left onto the entrance to NEFG. (You should be
    able to see the place before you turn by the car dealership.)
    	I think it was an old note of mine that quoted someone saying that 
    you could get into handlining for $50. That was a two year old quote
    and also didn't include a lot of extras. I made up 4 handlines for
    about $50 each. You'll also need a harpoon and other paraphenalia
    (sp?) like deep water anchoring equipment etc. Handlining is the
    least expensive way into Tuna fishing but it aint free.   ;^)
     	There's a lot more but I gota go.
    TTFN
    Paul   

    On the second line of my previous reply I ment Portsmouth rather than
    Portland Circle. ( My Maine brain Freudian slip)    :^)7

    Welcome Greg.
    
    Like Steve said, Go to N.E. Fishing supply in Portsmoth/Newington
    N.H. The ride is worth it. Bring lots of CASH! A basic set up is
    2 rigs, you'll need Baskets to hold the line, 500 to 700 ft of 3/8
    lobst'a warp, 100ft of #750 gold nybraid, 30ft of MONO leader (I
    can help on that & MONO line, send me a note on mail) & Hooks #8,#10
    & swivels.
    
    To go allong with it you'll also need a harpoon stick (Mines a closet
    pole) and at least 2 darts. Plus a Heavy Duty Gaff.
    
    Bait is Herring. 
    
    Good Luck.                                   Walt
    

Re .174

Hi Greg

I'll be bringing my boat back from the cape this sunday morning, and on the
way back I'll be trolling up stellwagon.  If you get out to Stellwagon
give me a shout on ch16.  Boat's name is kingfisher.  I figure to be on the 
southern end of the bank no later than 9:30 a.m. and will troll up to the 
nw corner.  

hope to see you out there
Joe

    I guess a good place for a beginner to get started is to go Hudsons
    in Newburyport. Try to talk to Malcolm, he can be very helpful.
    He will have all the gear you'll need, prices may be a little higher
    (Mass tax etc.) but your also getting info from an old timer who
    has done his share of tuna fishing. Make a list of question and
    equipment from the notes in here and spent some time there.
    Once you do some fishing and talking to other people about the gear
    their using, you'll be ready for the big time, a trip to NE Fishing
    Gear.
    
    Steve

Say Joe,
	I guess I'm ready to joint the trolling fraternity. I was out last 
Sunday and the seas were so calm my chum slick just hung around the boat;
I couldn't raise a thing. What a day for trolling or sticking! Also with 
the late start I got on the season this year my freezer is devoid of bait 
so trolling has additional appeal. 

	I've avoided trolling up to now for several reasons...

	1.) I'm after giants and up till a year or two ago no schoolies were
	taken up here. If I latch onto one of the big boys with my standard 
	50# rig I'd have a hell of a time.

	2.) My outriggers are relatively light. I don't know how they will 
	hold up to heavy squid rigs used for tuna.

	I'm thinking more seriously of trolling this season for a couple 
reasons also...
	
	1.) Fate has dealt me a blow that may have a silver lining. My 
	auxilliary motor was stolen from my boat. Rather than buying a 
	new one I've purchased a heavier mounting bracket and installed
	a 25hp motor I had on my fresh water boat. When the insurance 
	company comes through I expect to have about $1,000 discretionary 
	cash on hand. I can buy stand up rods, heavier outriggers or 
	a few other incidentals that will allow me to get into trolling.

	2.) As stated above, the bait situation this year is not as good 
	as in the past so trolling would lessen my dependance on it.

	Now for the questions. Since your boat isn't all that different 
from mine I assume we would be rigged similarly.

	1.) Do you use outriggers?

	2.) Do you use squid bars or smoker baits?

	3.) What's the right trolling speed for the varouus lures? I seem 
	to remember 5 - 6 knots for the smokers and 3- 4 for the squid.
	is that about right?
Thanks
Paul

    	Hi Y'all,
    
    	Thanks for the info on my questions, Looking forward to getting
    out on the ocean and do some fishing again. When I was working down
    in Florida on a 75ft fishing boat I had the opportunity to hook
    into a couple of Jewfish. They get very large like Bluefin It was
    like hooking on to a greyhound bus. With a regular boat rod 100#
    line and a 4/0 penn the fish just stripped all the line off then
    snapped the line. Unfortunately I couldn't follow the fish it wasn't
    my boat or It would have been different. I imagine hooking a large
    tuna on a simular set up would provide much the same results. Is there 
    spots near Gloucester where one can count on running in to smaller
    school sized tuna? How far north do Yellowfin range? Is 200 ft deep 
    typically the closest to shore you can expect to find a large Bluefin? 
    Do big Bluefin prefer certain underwater structures ie. reefs, ledges, 
    wrecks? Or are they primarily an open water and deep ocean type fish? It
    doesn't sound like they are a bottom feeding fish like Grouper or
    Jewfish tend to be. Also I have heard of only a few areas to fish
    for them Stellwagon, Block Island, Plum island, Jeffries. Do these 
    area's reside so close to each other it's a name for the particular
    vicinity that you are in? Aren't they anywhere along the continental 
    shelf around reefs? I don't know very much about tuna mostly just
    what I have read in the notes files. Can someone shed some light
    on the basics of the tuna fish? Feeding habits, prefered habitat
    seasonal migration habits if any. I have heard of a couple of prefered
    baits for them. What all will a tuna eat? Thanks... Greg.
     
    "The Outlaw"                             

re .181

Hi Paul

Sorry to hear about your motor.  The larger motor sounds nice. Thats something
I'ld like on my boat, someday.  Anyway, to answer your questions.  Currently
I don't use outriggers because I haven't been able to afford them.  I run
anywhere from 2-5 rods dictated by sea conditions and crew.  2 from flatline
clips from the transom, 2 from the tips, and if I have the extra rod and my
crew wants, I'll have them run one down the center deep by hand.  This setup
is usually run with high speed lures, green machines, tuna clones etc.  When I 
troll squid bars and daisy chains, since I only have 2 I fish 2 rods off flat
lines or off the rod tips.  If I had outriggers I would definitely use them.
As for trolling speed,  its not how fast you should go, but how the lures run.
With the high speed smokers, I run anywhere from 3-10 kts.  This depends on
sea conditions, wind, and number of rods out.  When its calm, the green mach's
with birds ahead of them seem to run best at about 6-7kts.  They'll be in the
water 70% of the time.  The squid I usually run right down around idle.  They're
just kinda bubbling on top.  I like trolling because you don't have the mess
and smell of rotten bait on those 90+ degree days.  Also, being a fly fisherman,
I love to see a fish smash a lure on top!  But... I've yet to get a tuna by
trolling.  But I've taken yellowfin chunking.  This sunday, I'm gonna troll
since I've gotta run right up the bank to get home.  However, in a few weeks
I'll be chunking more, and only trolling to look for the fish.  We take vacation
in september, and my boat'll be up at Rye, NH.  We'll have to get together at 
the fingers again.

See ya
Joe 

Re .182>

Outlaw,

	Wow, you sure have a lot of questions. I'll do what I can to answer
them and maybe others will join in also.

    >>...Is there spots near Gloucester where one can count on running in 
    >>to smaller school sized tuna?... 

	Jeffrey's Ledge runs near Gloucester its a good spot for tuna. Small
	school tuna were unheard of north of Cape Cod until a few years ago.
	Currents or something must be changing. Used to be only giants. 

    >>...How far north do Yellowfin range?... 

	I don't know. The schoolies I heard of were small bluefin but maybe
	there are some yellowfin also.


    >>...Is 200 ft deep typically the closest to shore you can expect to 
    >> find a large Bluefin? 

	Here in Maine I've heard of bluefin taken fairly close to shore
	but most fishing for them is in deep water. If your going to
	handline you should look for underwater ridges etc. that come up 
	to 200' or less so that you can anchor.

    >>...Do big Bluefin prefer certain underwater structures ie. reefs, ledges, 
    >>wrecks? Or are they primarily an open water and deep ocean type fish? 

	Open water. They follow bait however so large underwater structure 
	that holds bait will attract tuna.
 
    >>...Also I have heard of only a few areas to fish for them Stellwagon, 
    >>Block Island, Plum island, Jeffries. Do these area's reside so close 
    >>to each other it's a name for the particular vicinity that you are in? 
    >>Aren't they anywhere along the continental shelf around reefs? 

	Tuna migrate all the way up the coast and pass through areas that 
	hold bait while they do it. Those spots you mention above happen 
	to be good bottom fishing spots as well for the same reason.

    >>Can someone shed some light on the basics of the tuna fish? Feeding 
    >>habits, prefered habitat seasonal migration habits if any. I have 
    >>heard of a couple of prefered baits for them. What all will a tuna 
    >>eat? 

	Tuna migrate North during the Summer. The time to fish for them is
	July through September. Further South they may extend the season at 
	both ends. Tuna eat all sorts of bait...mackerel, bluefish, pogies, 
	butterfish, squid etc. It depends on what is prevalent in the area. 
	I like to catch fresh mackerel on the way out and fish them live.
	They also feed and travel at various depths. Sometimes they can be 
	seen on the surface and they also travel as deep as it gets.


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

I hope this helped. 
Paul

    	TUNA TIME! There were a number of good sized Bluefin caught
    up around Maine (N. Jeffries) last friday. All the ones I read about were 
    caught by trolling with squid and ranged from 200 to 350 lbs. I
    also read about a number of Yellowfin, Albacore, and Big eyes being
    taken around the block Island area. 
    	I also bought a book about offshore fishing in this area and
    it helped answer some of my thousand and one questions. I have quenched
    my thirst for knowledge considerably But am always willing to
    listen to what experience or advice other people have to offer. I
    spent part of the weekend window shopping and looking for info on
    tuna fishing. Found out some interesting facts as well as how scarce
    good info is about tuna. I read quite abit about stand up tuna rod
    and reel combinations, they sound like alot of fun. I'm trying to get 
    enough cash together to get a couple of very basic tuna rods together.
    I wasn't able to find any information on handlines perhaps I will
    find something when I get a chance to go to New England fishing
    gear or even the library this week. I hope to be reading about, how
    one of you caught a tuna soon. Remember you can't catch tuna if
    your not out there fishing for one (That's my problem). So get out
    there and catch one so you can tell us all about it.
    
    Thanks, Paul for taking time out to answer some of my many questions.
    Walt, you were right LOT'S of CASH... To get set up for Tuna fishing.
    Steve, I'm still working on my growing list of questions.
    Joe, Missed you this Sunday, Hopefully next weekend. Any luck?
                                                                  
    -Greg-
    
    "The Outlaw"                   

Hi Greg

I didn't make it sunday as it was.  We shark fished saturday at the fingers
s. of Martha's but didn't even see a fin.  No fish marked, or seen.  Then 
we got in early enough, so I ran back to Danvers Port saturday night, pulling
into the slip around 945pm.  Sunday I just cleaned the boat and hung out at
home.  Right now I'm planning on trying next saturday.  Steve, any news on
Stellwagon?

Joe

    Outlaw,
    
      Welcome, Capt. Codfish of the SWEET DREAM II out of Danvers, fishing
    stellewagon and points north. I can probably help you out as far
    as rods go since I custom build them. I have built two beatiful
    standup rods made for tuna in the 100 to 400lb class, these can
    be fished standup or in a chair as they are about 6'2" and have
    aftco unibutts on them. If your interested send VAX mail.
                             
      I will be starting to tuna fish next week so look for me at the
    NW corner. There is only one thing about tuna fishing that is simple.
    You have to put in your time. The more you get out there the more
    you will learn about the wrong things to do and maybe just maybe
    you will be at the right place at the right time and have everything
    ready and Mr Big will latch on and you will land him. I am still
    waiting for my first.  The hardest part is being where the tuna
    are and as I said the best way to find that out is to get out there
    alot and know where they hit yesterday and at what time and try
    to figure out what the patern is before it chanegs.
    
    More later.....
    
    Bruce

    I expected a report on the NW corner from you guys. Come on , get
    with it!!!
    The fingers (Jefferies) is dry. I fished up there Sunday. One wiz-off.
    Rumor a 17 ft boat had one on around 5:30, but I couldn't confirm
    Tthat fish.
    From info I can piece ttogether on the corner, Sunda,y 15 fish were
    taken,200 boats, 5 yesterday. There seems to be a real early bite, 
    around sunrise. Rod/reel has been probably the most consistent. 
    The dogs are a reel problem, they're everywhere. The guys getting
    the fish are either fishing through the,m not me, or waiting for
    a tide change and the few minutes the dogs aren't biting.     
    There seems to be good marking.
    
    So, unless things get better up north, I'll be seeing you on
    the corner...
    
    Steve

    Just a tidbit. For you guys that have Cable TV with the Discovery
    channel. There was a fishing show on last night and will be on again
    tonight ( I'll Tape it) about TUNA/Black Marlin/ Great white fishing.
    Its down under but its all the same as up here. Trolling/Chunking
    ect.... Worth watching.
    
    Its right after the show on SHARKS!!!
    
    The wind is onshore today. Should have some thermal comming in by
    friday if the Low pressure stays out. 
    Steve are you going out Friday? Maybe I can get Bruce and the Dockta
    to crew for a trip. 
    
    New Technique. Who trolls live bait? I'm thinking of rigging some
    drails to get it down to 100 ft, Wish I had dowriggers.
    
                                     Walt
    

    Re .189
    
    Walt,
    	I don't think trolling live bait will work. The bait will be dead
    shortly after you start. 
    	Trolling with dead bait can be done by rigging up daisy chains of 
    mackerel etc.. I saw it at a seminar a while back. Its done by sewing 
    up the the mouth and gills and then attaching the fish to heavy single 
    strand wire leader. Flat waxed twine is used to sew them up and connect 
    them to the wire. The fish are on a dropper of I'd guess 6" - 8" and are 
    spaced along the wire so that they have a small space between each fish 
    in the row. Only the last fish is armed with a hook.
    	You drag thes rigs slowly so they stay under and don't just skip
    along the surface. They obviously imitate a school of fish. 
    	If you are interested in trying it, let me know. I may be able to 
    look it up at home and give you more details.
    
    Regards,                                       
    Paul 

Re .189

Sorry to disagree about the live bait Paul, but its done a lot.  Especially
by the guys fishing skipjack tuna for marlin.  There's a few ways to do it from
what I understand.  You can a) rig the hook through the back, and do a sloooow
troll, b) hook'em through the nose and do a slooow troll, c) rig a bridal (sp?)
through the eye socket, above the eyeball using some dental floss or waxed 
thread, and the tie the hook to the bridal with the hook facing up, and do
a slooow troll.  The back hook and nose hook are also used by blue and striper
fisherman to live line pogies.  The key is to make sure you don't kill the fish
by trolling too fast.  This method works best when fish are in the area.  This
is something I want to try for giants, but I've yet to find some macks or 
blue's while looking for the tuna.

Joe

    I finally managed to get everything ready for my first trip out
    for Bluefin, I was would like to get alittle more information regarding
    N. Jeffries. Where is the best place to put in at? How far is it
    from Portsmouth N.H.? Is there a best location there to go for Bluefin?
    How's the Bluefin fishing been going up there so far this season?
    Thanks in advance...
    
    The Outlaw

    	Well the Insurance Co came through today so I ordered a standup rig
    from Saco Bay Tackle. I'll pick it up next week when I head back from
    a meeting "down south". I'll probably pick up some squids & smokers as
    well. The rig will be a Penn 9/0 on a Shakespeare rod. I'm having it
    loaded with 100# Jinkai (sp?) mono line. Anyone have any experience
    with this stuff? It has a much smaller diameter than standard mono and
    is reported to be extremely abrasion resistant (a good feature when
    sharks show up). It doesn't appear to be as supple as Ande so I don't
    know if it will come off the reel like a coil spring or not. I guess
    I'll find out soon enough.
    	I'm going out tomorrow but I don't know how far. The seas may be 
    running a little too strong for a run to Platts or Jeffreys. I'll decide 
    when I see how it looks.
    	If it all comes together, I'll pick up some fresh macks on the way
    out and try livelining ...which I still prefer to do while anchored or
    drifting :^)
    	I'll give you all a shout if I end up at Jeffreys, otherwise good
    luck.
    Paul  

    This note has been too quiet for too long! Has anyone even been out
    "Despertly seaking Charlie" lately?
    Where have you fished and what was it like? ie: Any Bait? Water Temp?
    Did you mark any? Did anyone around catch anything??
    
    What about auxillary fish. Cod,Cusk,Hake, Haddock???
    
    Sharks?
    
    Nothing? Scunks?
    
                                    Walt
    

    Walt,
    	As you can see from the delayed reply I haven't been very active
    in the notes file of late. Unfortunately I haven't been very active in
    the tuna fishing dept either. This has been without a doubt the worst
    year I've had in the salt.
    	Other committments have kept me off the water early in the season
    so I never stocked up on mackerel as I usually do. I managed to catch 
    some blues and chunked with them one day...couldn't even raise a shark.
        There were lots of tuna reports up this way but not all that many
    being landed. I saw some one day but didn't have much of a chance since
    I was set up chunking. They only showed for two or three jumps and I
    couldn't get going fast enough before they dissappeared.
    	The blue fishing was OK, the mackerel were practically nonexistant,
    the bottom fishing was the pits and the dogfish were everywhere. Other 
    than that the weather was nice. ;^)
    	Its over for me this year; football, soccer and a host of other
    activities that my kids are into have brought down the curtain for
    another season. It was soooo bad I'm am SERIOUSLY thinking of selling
    the boat, but that's another story.
    	
    Paul 	Who_hopes_this_depression_passes_over_the_winter.
     

    Well Paul, I hate to kick someone when their down but, this has
    been the best year anyone can remember for tuna fishing up your
    way, the fingers, platts and north. Most of the fish have been 
    small, under 400 lbs, but the guys that figured out how to catch
    them were getting close to 5 fish a week the month of August. Things
    have realy slowed down lately. As for sharks on the fingers, you
    can't help but catch them and they're the biggest kind. ?
    Some guys this past week have been catching up to 6 a day. What
    a pain they are. 
    I hope you find a way to enjoy the sport next year.
    
    Steve

I spoke to Cal at Saco tackle last night.  He  broke one off thurs, 
and a guy he works with got one last tuesday.  He said Boon Island,
the cove, and between new and old scantum were the places they were 
in last week.  I asked for more information about Boon, and all he
said was they were in as close as the lobster pots.  He didn't have
any info on handliners, just rod and reelers dragging squid bars.

    Gad! Don't sell the boat. Get your priorities straight! Sell the wife
    and kids.
    
    ??? If the huricane Hugo is circulating counter clockwise, It should
    bring warm water up north with it. Right? Has anyone studied the
    effects of tropical storms on tuna fishing in New England?
    
    I would think that the fish would be driven closer to shore along with
    the bait?
    
                                          Walt
    

    Just to let you Downeaster's know...
    
    According to the morning newspaper, the Bluefin run has started
    in the Mudhole off the N. Jersey coast. Monday and Tuesday they
    were getting several fish between 200 and 600 lbs. This is mostly
    a chunking situation. 
    
    BTW- the mudhole is only about a 20 mile run from the more popular
    	North Jersey inlets.
    
    BBTW- if anyone decides to tow the boat down the Garden State Parkway
    	I live just off exit #135 (just a subtle hint)
    
    Bagel

    Bruce,
    
    Lets see, @ $70/day for the trailer.  1 day down, 1 day fishing and 1
    day back.  Use 4 tanks round trip in the truck.  About $30 gas for the
    boat, about $30 for bait, that comes to a grand total of about $350. 
    Hmmmm.  Something to think about... 

    Hey Joe & Bruce
    If the trip is about 200nm down @ 10Kts it would ttake 20 hours run
    time. Times 2 for the return trip thans 2 days travel and $500 fuel.
    If we spent 3-4 days down there??? lets see ? 2 fish per day @ 500 lbs
    ea. @ $10 lbs =10K day minus expences such as Gas, Ice, Beer, food and
    the divorce settlements?????
    
    How much fishing Value does that come to?
    
                           Walt
    

	I went to N.E. Fishing Gear a while ago and picked up some material
to make a few more handlines. Much to my dismay I found that nygold is
no longer available for shock cord. The only thing available is white.
	I've had problems with sharks eating my line when I used white 
(green spot) dacron line and I sure don't want them munching on my handlines. 
I also don't like the visibility of the white cord that close to the leader.
	I think I'll dye the cord...and maybe the whole handline for that 
matter. Anybody out there have any experience dying nylon or pot warp? Any 
color suggestions? I am thinking of either a coffee color like the shark wire 
leader or sea green. Saco Bay Tackle used to use a black shock cord but that 
too became extinct.
Regards,
Paul 	Why_is_it_I_only_have_time_for_this_stuff_in_the_middle_of_Winter?

    Paul, you seem to do your best fishing (dreaming) during the winter.
    
    You can dye the white ny-gold. Any of the ritz clothes dyes will
    work. I use three colors, black, green and red. Don't worry too
    much about the color, the other guy catching the fish will be using
    the color you left home. This theory worked great for me last summer,
    0 for 20 trips.
    
    later
    
    Steve

    Paul.
    
    Try dyeing the line with an organic dye like sharks blood. Its just a
    theroy, but I would think that the less chemical contaminants you
    introduce to your handline rigs the better your chances will be.
    
    A fish has very sensitive organs for detecting things that are out of
    the ordinary. For the same reasons that Bass fisherman use fish sents
    on their lures, I would use some on my Tuna Rigs.
    
    Not that it made any differance to me last year 0. I had one day when
    we could see more Tuna on the Sonar than we could count.  Not a bite
    was to be had by any of the boats in the area!
    
    This year I'm gonna git me one of those suckers!
    
                                 Walt
    

    re .203>
    	Steve,
    		Well at least you got out 20 times last season. Last year
    was almost a total washout for me.
    
    re .204>
    	Walt,
    		I was going to dye the line yesterday. It was snowing and 
    I had nothing to do, but I didn't have any dye. I retied one of my 
    floats and made up another tail rope. Gettin ready for an early start 
    this year.
    		Maybe shark blood would work but I think I'll pass. I
    usually manage to get a good dose of shark scent on my lines whether
    I want to or not. Don't those buggers stink.
    
    re none of the above>
    
    		Saco Bay Tackle Co has started their usual seminar series.
    They also have added workshops this year. They charge $25 for the 
    workshops. This seems a little steep to me but I may go to one on 
    Chunking for Tuna which will be given on the 19th. If there is any
    interest in the seminars or clinics, I could post the schedule here.
    Sea Ya,
    Paul
     

    I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE IS FAMILIAR WITH THE INTERPHASE 20/20 DUAL.
    I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY EXPERIENCES .
    ROY

	Has anyone ever used Alewives as Tuna bait? Last year I got a late 
start and never had enough bait. I was wondering if I could gather up some
Alewives and freeze them so I won't be short again this year. 
	I believe Alewives are part of the Herring family and should be pretty 
good generic fish fodder but I don't have any first hand knowledge or 
experience with them. 
	Here in Maine you are allowed to take 1 bushel per day. I imagine it
won't be hard to find a good source and gather my limit, but I don't want to
waste my time or the fish. 
	Whatayasay? Any Alewife experts out there?
Paul

    RE: last
    
    Paul, sure they will work. But there's nothing like fresh bait.
    Use the frozen bait for chum, get the fresh stuff for hook bait.
    
    Steve
    
    

    Steve is right (being the only one in this conference to actually
    boat a tuna). I will go one further and say that fresh hook bait
    are manadatory and live baits are best. In my attemps last year
    I was able to jig live herring from the bottom while chunking. I
    caught a couple of large bluesharks and they both hit live baits.
    If you put a fresh killed bait next to froozen one you will see
    the difference in color, smell and texture.
    
    Mid june and I will be starting to troll the middle bank.
    
    Bruce

    My limited experience with mostly yellowfin and some bluefin to
    150 lbs. is whole live bait live and kicking  bait may not always
    outfish cut fresh bait.  Our best luck in the  Canyons was bias
    cut cera mackeral in halves vs whole swimming mackeral. This unweighted
    setup outfished fresh butters whole,  halves and certainly the frozen
    which we needed when we would spend 2 to 3 days out there
    nightchunking.
    
    Usually we would place our freeshest largest butter down deep on
    the 130 pound test and mix the rest at various depths.  Once we
    have a good chum slick going and we see some small fish come in
    we then catch as many as we can and then start chunking and using
    half macs.  Within 15 to 30  minutes its post time and its a single
    or a double averaging 100 to 150 lb yellowfins and occaisional bigeye
    to 250.  Surprisingly, it was rare that we would have a hit on a
    whole free swimming mac.
    
    Looking forward to tuna time this year...

    Steve,	
    	No question fresh is better but not always available up here in the
    hinterlands. During good years (last year wasn't) Mackerel can be
    picked up with only a short side trip. Last year they were practically 
    non existent during July. I figured a freezer full of anything would
    be good insurance if that occurs again this year.
    	
    Bruce,
    	How do you pick up Herring? I've never done it. I've caught Pollack
    and added it to the chum slick before but that's about all I've jigged
    up (except for eatin stuff).
    
    Regards,
    Paul

 Try a cod jig under a group of white or yellow bucktail teasers (or a mack
tree) bounced along the bottom. Aside from the herring, you tend to get a
few cod as well. :-)

Doctah's trick works.  Me, Bruce & Mike caught about a dozen macks on the 
teasers while cod fishing (yesterday).  They were approx 20' off the bottom in
most cases.

Tmi

    Paul,
    
      One of my best cod trips was a tuna trip to middle jeffries last
    august. We were chumming and jigging one rod for herring with a
    mack tree above a jig and we were pulling up cod and herring like
    crazy. Cod went in the cooler and herring in the live well. Got
    a 10 foot blue shark that day on a swimmer.
    
    Bruce

    I didnt see any topics directly related to this question, but this 
    looked like the best location to float a question about:
    	         	Crimping wire/mono
    
    I want to rig up some "hoochie trolls".  (now I admit, these are for
    bluefish not bluefin, but I thought you folks mignt be able to help)
    I picked up the plastic skirts, 3oz and 4oz sinkers, one of those funny 
    pliars, assorted hooks and swivels, some 80lb test wire and 100 sleaves.
    (Berkley) So far, so good.  
    
    What I dont understand is how the finished crimp should look.   
    Should I leave it flat ?    
    ( In cross section it would resemble something like this: o_o )  
    
    Or should I crimp the sleave flat, turn it 90 degrees and crimp it
    again ?    ( Sort of like this:  oo.   My ability with graphics leaves 
    something to be desired)
    
    How much force should be used in setting these crimps ?
    
    
    
    
    						Thanks,
    
    							Harlan     

    I don't know the exact answer, but one of the recent issues of Salt
    Water Sportsman had an "all you ever wanted to know about crimping"
    article. It was around January, February or March, 1990. Maybe you
    could check your local library for copies.
    
    

Harlan,
	Its been a long time since I crimped the small stuff but I remember 
that they don't come out looking real pretty. The pliers kind of squash the
sleeve and flare it out versus a nice "necking down" affect. I suppose better
pliers would do a better job but the ones I had were kind of general purpose.
	Your illustrations look like you have a different crimper than mine
so I 'm not sure of the mechanics of the crimp but I don't think re-crimping 
at 90 deg to the first is necessary if the sleeves and pliers are the right 
size. Maybe a little distructive testing would satisfy your scientific 
curiosity. I used to double crimp side by side along the length of the sleeve 
without rotating it. It resulted in an unproffessional looking rig but I never 
had one open up on me. 
	The pliers I have now are made for the bigger Aluminum sleeves used
on heavy mono leader. I think they are Hi Seas. They aren't the best on the 
market but they do a relatively neat job. I still crimp twice but the result 
looks something like the following.

		 ___
		|   |
		 ) (
		|   |
		 ) ( 
		|   |
		 ---

	I hope this helps

Paul

    Paul,
    
     one trick I heard recently was to double crimp at 90 degrees to
    each other.
    
    Bruce (who is about to order 1200yrds and 80lb dacron and a couple
    skeins of 150lb mono header)

    I've been making my own rigs for over 20 years, i didn't have
    these pliers back then and don't have any now. For plastic
    coated wire, i just squash the sleeve in a vice. Havn't
    had one let go yet.
    
    you decide...
    
    JIm.

    re:219
    
    	Are you saying that I dont need  expensive, bulky, specialized
    	equipment...?  Are you suggesting that, maybe, just maybe, I 
    	could get by without all the gadgets, accessories, tools, spares
    	and all the stuff normally associated with fishing ?
    
    	What would happen to my basement and garage if I did this?
    	What would happen to all the stores and manufacturers and camp
    	owners and marinas and boat captains ?   Something like that could
    	send the economy into the dumper.   
    
    	Mr. Moderator: .219 should be set hidden.

    Re .218>
    Bruce,
    	Yeah, I can picture the advantage of two crimps at 90 deg to each
    other on the cylindrical sleeves. 
    	On the Hi Seas oblong type sleeves I think you're committed to the
    configuration I illustrated.
    	Well I gotta go but this has proven to be a good discussion. I will
    try to reply again. I'd like to talk about other related things like
    offshore loops vs those spring like sleeves etc.
    Sea Ya
    Paul
    ex
    
    
    		

	Ah, lunch break at last.
	As I stated in my last reply I'd like to have more discussion 
about heavyweight terminal gear. I rig mine up in a particular way
and I'd like to share info with others who may do it differently.
This may ramble a bit because there are several areas to discuss. 
Anyhow my questions/comments follow.
	Leaders have been discussed at length in previous replies and 
other notes, so I don't need to go into them here.
	I use a straight swivel (no snap) on my handlines for strength.
This means that I have to tie and crimp the leader on every time I change 
it, versus pre-rigging the leader with a loop at the tag end and just 
snaping it onto the handline. Is this worth the bother? Do others use 
heavy snap swivels like 300# + coastlocks etc.?
	On my heavy standup rod I use a snap swivel because I know I can't
put as much tension on the line.
	I used to use an offshore loop at the tag end of the leader.
I now have a supply of those springlike chaffing sleeves...or whatever
you call them...and plan on using them. Any comments pro or con?
	For hooks I use the ringed type. I use a stainless steel thimble
and crimp the leader to it. I think this is standard fare...not worhty of 
much discussion.
	BTW - Last year I found a good source for heavy terminal gear. 
It was in an unlikely catalogue...BASSPRO. They had heavy leader, crimp
sleeves, thimbles, heavy swivels etc. and all at a good price.

I am not sure that this is the right place to post this note...so if the 
moderators wish to move it...please do so.

This year I intend to give Tuna fishing my best shot.  I have no 
experience.  

The Mass Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay has an annual sport's fishing 
seminar which, in prior years, hass been quite good.  Each year it is 
focused on a theme.

The subject matter covered always is applicable to the general New England 
(sometimes stretching to NY/NJ area).

This year the theme will be Tuna and other big game fish. 

The seminar is next Saturday, 2 March at I think 9 AM.  It goes till 4 and 
includes lunch for a State/Federal subsidized cost of $25 (one of the true 
bargains left).

There are a few folks from DEC planning on going.  I thought posting the 
info would be useful to others.

Perhaps if enough folks from DEC show, we can all go someplace for dinner 
after the seminar.

Carl

    
    Carl,
    	R U the 1 I know from "way" back in the ole day's?
    
    	Anyway this Tuna Course sounds good.
    	I'm gonna talk to the wife and see if we can attend.
    	Her brother lives in Harwichport so not far away.
    	May wangle combined trip.
    	We caught one last August 5th on a "free" charter...
    	See 80.0 REGISTER YOUR HAWG(S) HERE! 80.161-< TUNA Tail  >-
    
    Dick "Tuna Tail" Landry

    
    Hi, I'm interested in doing some TUNA fishing this year (yea, I know
    it's early) but I am entirely new to this. What I am most concearned
    with is (1) What kind of and how much does a license cost and (2) where
    does one go once he has landed a tuna. I am looking for specific areas
    and I was also wondering if these places take anything else besides
    tuna (sharks,cod,haddock,etc)
    
    
                                                    Thanks,
                            
                                                  Mackrel Mike

    Try note 296 for Tuna information.