Attention all anglers! Are you looking to up your game in the world of fishing? Want to add a new species to your repertoire or simply sharpen your skills? Well, look no further because, in this blog post, we will be diving into the art of how to catch pinfish with rod and reel.
For those who may not be familiar, pinfish are small but mighty saltwater fish that can often be found near reefs, piers, and grassy areas along the coast. They may seem insignificant compared to other prized fish, but don’t let their size fool you. Pinfish make great bait and are tasty table fare if cooked correctly.
So, whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting with fishing, keep reading as we share some tips and tricks on catching pinfish with a rod and reel successfully.
What Will You Need?
Before we get into the actual fishing techniques, it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. Here is a list of items you will need:
- A medium-weight rod and reel combo
- Monofilament or fluorocarbon fishing line (6-10 pound test)
- Small hooks (sizes 4-8)
- Small split shot weights
- Live shrimp or cut bait as bait (squid, mullet, or even small pieces of fish)
Once you have gathered all your supplies, it’s time to head out to the water and put your skills to the test.
10 Easy Steps on How to Catch Pinfish With Rod and Reel
Step 1. Choose the Right Equipment
The first step to catching pinfish with a rod and reel is ensuring you have the right equipment. A medium to light action spinning rod, paired with a small revolution, is ideal for targeting pinfish. It’s also essential to use a small hook, around size 6 or 8, as pinfish have small mouths.
Step 2. Use the Right Bait
Pinfish are attracted to various baits, but some of the most effective options include shrimp, squid, and cut pieces of fish like mullet or mackerel. You can also try using artificial baits such as small jigs or spoons.
Step 3. Locate Areas Where Pinfish Gather
Pinfish are commonly found in shallow waters near structures such as docks, piers, and bridges. They also tend to congregate around grass beds and other underwater structures. Look for areas with good water movement and plenty of cover for the best chance of catching pinfish.
Step 4. Cast Your Line and Wait
Once you’ve chosen your spot and baited your hook, it’s time to cast out your line. Pinfish are known to be cautious eaters, so be patient and give them time to take the bait before setting the hook. If you don’t get any bites after a few minutes, try moving to a different location or changing up your bait.
Step 5. Set the Hook Gently
When you feel a tug on your line or see your float bobbing, it’s time to set the hook. However, since pinfish have delicate mouths, it’s important not to jerk too hard when setting the hook, as this can cause them to tear off easily. Instead, gently lift your rod tip upwards until you feel resistance from the fish before reeling it in slowly.
Step 6. Reel in the Pinfish
As you reel in the pinfish, maintain a steady pressure on the line. Due to their small size, pinfish only sometimes put up a substantial fight. However, avoid reeling in too quickly, as it could snap the line or dislodge the hook. Slow and steady is the best approach. Keep your rod tip up and guide the fish gently towards you. Once it’s close to the shore or boat, use a net to lift it from the water.
Step 7. Handle the Pinfish Carefully
Once you’ve successfully reeled in the pinfish, handling them with care is crucial. Pinfish get their name from their sharp dorsal fins, which can easily prick your fingers if not cautiously approached. Carefully remove the hook from the pinfish’s mouth using a pair of pliers or a good pair of fishing gloves. If you release the fish back into the water, do it promptly to minimize stress and ensure its survival.
Step 8. Keep or Release the Pinfish
Now that you’ve caught your pinfish, you must decide whether to keep or release it. If you intend to use the pinfish as bait for larger species, place it gently into a well-aerated live well or bucket filled with saltwater. If your aim is to catch and release, ensure you handle the pinfish as little as possible to reduce stress. Release the fish gently back into the water, watching it until it swims away to ensure it’s safe.
Step 9. Practice Good Fishing Etiquette
In the world of fishing, it’s essential to practice good etiquette. This involves respecting other anglers’ space, adhering to local fishing regulations, and being responsible for your trash. If fishing from a pier or a dock, be mindful of other anglers and their lines. Cast into a different area where someone else is already fishing. Always adhere to size and bag limits, and ensure you have the licenses to fish in your chosen location. Lastly, leave no trace behind. Ensure you pick up all your garbage and discarded fishing lines, as they can harm wildlife.
Step 10: Enjoy the Experience
Above all, remember that fishing is about enjoying the experience. Whether you catch a bucket full of pinfish or none, the absolute joy is in the thrill of the chase and the peace of being out in nature. Fishing is not just about the catch, it’s about learning new skills, appreciating the beauty of the outdoors, and potentially sharing these moments with friends and family. So kick back, relax, and enjoy the art of how to catch pinfish with a rod and reel.
By following these easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pinfish-catching pro in no time.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Bait: Pinfishes are more likely to bite on natural baits. Shrimp, squid, and cut baitfish are all excellent choices.
- Use Light Tackle: Pinfish are small, so using a light tackle can make the fishing experience more enjoyable and less stressful for the fish.
- Fish in the Right Area: Pinfish are typically found in warm, shallow water near structures like piers, bridges, and reefs.
- Use the Proper Hook Size: A small hook (size 1 or 2) is ideal for catching pinfish as they have small mouths.
- Patience is Key: Pinfish can be picky eaters. Be patient, and remember that it might take some time for them to bite.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can increase your chances of successfully catching pinfish with a rod and reel.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Heavy Gear: As mentioned before, pinfish are small. Using heavy gear can not only be a hindrance but potentially harm the fish.
- Avoid Fishing in Deep Waters: Pinfish prefer shallow, warm waters. Casting your line in deep waters will most likely be unproductive.
- Avoid Using Large Hooks: Large hooks are likely to avoid catching pinfish due to their small mouths. Stick with minor themes for better results.
- Avoid Being Noisy: Pinfish can be easily scared away by loud noises. Try to maintain a calm and quiet demeanor while fishing.
- Avoid Impatience: Patience is vital in fishing. If you’re getting impatient, you might scare the fish away or miss potential bites. Be calm, patient, and persistent.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be better prepared to catch pinfish with a rod and reel successfully.
What is the Best Bait to Use for Pinfish?
As the tips and tricks section mentions, pinfish are likelier to bite on natural bait. However, some anglers also succeed using artificials such as small jigs or spoons. Ultimately, it’s best to experiment and see what works for you in your fishing area.
Additionally, some anglers have found success using a combination of natural bait and artificial lures. This can be a great way to increase your chances of catching pinfish.
Overall, using fresh and high-quality bait is essential for the best results. Pinfish have excellent senses and can easily detect if something is off about the bait, leading them to avoid it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to catch pinfish with rod and reel may seem like a daunting task at first, but after mastering the techniques outlined in this post, you will soon become a pro! Remember to use the correct size hook and bait and keep a steady hand while reeling in these feisty fish. Try different locations, experiment with varying bait options, and stay patient. And most importantly, keep going if you catch any pinfish on your first few tries.
Fishing is all about perseverance and learning from each experience. With practice and determination, you will soon be satisfied with successfully hooking and reeling in your pinfish! So grab your rod and reel, follow these tips, and prepare for an adventure on the water that will bring excitement and enjoyment.
Whether for a relaxing day out or a delicious dinner, catching pinfish will become one of your favorite pastimes. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and give it a try!