About This fishing Q&A
Ask a question and receive answers from offshore and inshore fishing experts
What’s the recommended weight if I’ll be trolling 7-9 knts?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Black Holo Fleck Lead Fish Weight
Answer:
The weight really depends on a few different factors including the overall size of the dredge. However, our most popular weight is 8lbs. If your looking to get a standard size dredge down at 7knts or so, 8lbs fish weight should be sufficient. The faster you go, the bigger the dredge, the more weight you need.
What is the recommended heat source to shrink the tubing.
Asked 1 ´year ago | OEM Skirt Customers > Adhesive Lined Shrink Tube
Answer:
We use a standard heat gun found at your local hardware store, and it only takes a second or two of applied heat to reduce down. You can use a torch, but you need to be careful not to burn the tubing and do not touch the flame to the shrink tube.
Answer:
We do! Be sure to checkout our YouTube page that includes a great tutorial on Ballyhoo Pin Rigging
Is this lure supposed to go with bait or without it?
Asked 2 ´years ago | Game Changer Medium 10" Trolling Lure
Answer:
Most of our trolling lures are intended to be trolled with no ballyhoo or dead bait unless specified. Each lure head shape offers a unique swimming motion and action when run naked (without bait). We offer a pre-rigged version of this lure that is rigged an ready to fish, simply clip to your mainline and go.
I just purchased 3 Tinker Mackeral. I did not see an option for replacement skirts. Can I get them?
Asked 4 ´years ago | Large Resin Trolling Lures > Tinker Mackerel Calico Jack Slant Large 14" Trolling Lure
Answer:
Yes, we do sell the Tinker Mackerel skirts on the site. The Calico Jack Slant takes an OC50 skirt size. The outer lure replacement skirt can be found CLICK HERE. The inner skirt is solid black and can be found CLICK HERE.
Answer:
Here's a quick Youtube video showing you how to properly prep a ballyhoo, as well as the finishing steps including hook, copper wire, lead weight, leader, etc.
Best position for this lure? And also is this lure supposed to go with ballyhoo or without?
Asked 2 ´years ago | Large Resin Trolling Lures > Tinker Mackerel Calico Jack Slant Large 14" Trolling Lure
Answer:
Most of our trolling lures are intended to be trolled with no ballyhoo or dead bait unless specified. Each lure head shape offers a unique swimming motion and action when run naked (without bait). We offer a pre-rigged version of this lure that is rigged an ready to fish, simply clip to your mainline and go. The Calico Jack Slant Large is super flexible on where it can be run, however the nose angle allows it to run really well even with low line angle (long rigger etc.) but can be run closer as well.
When will sold out colors be back in stock? Can you preorder sold out colors for when they do come in?
Asked 4 ´years ago | Mini Soft Head 4" Chugger Ballyhoo Pre-Rigged
Answer:
We have seen a huge demand in a number of our top selling products, and are working furiously to get things back in stock as quickly as possible. We do not currently offer pre-orders as we cannot guarantee re-stock dates at this time.
Answer:
The SR20 squid is 7" in total length. This dredge is un-weighted in order to keep it as light as possible, however you would want to use a dredge weight to keep it sub surface.
Is this a Comfort Colors blank like the long sleeve? Chalky Mint is a Comfort Colors “color”.
Asked 4 ´years ago | Swirling Camo Pocket T Shirt
Answer:
Yes, the Chalky Mint is a Comfort Colors garment dyed blank.
If this is fishing on a flat line would you clip it?
Asked 1 ´year ago | Pre-rigged Epic ECM Squid Chain
Answer:
If you're running the ECM Chain from the flat line position, we would recommend going straight to the rod tip without "pinning" it down. This allows a bit of line angle that will give the squids a "skittering" action and appear to be fleeing. Its ok if the front 1 (maybe 2) squid skip on the surface, but make the sure the lure is giving you a consist ant methodical 3-4 second chug behind the last squid.
Do you want to keep the same or similar color scheme of the attached lure as the agitator bar?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Agitator Bars > Agitator 5" Bird Bar Rigged
Answer:
That's a great question, and if you ask 100 different Captains you may get 99 different answers. Its a personal preference. Typically we would run a similar color, as to make it appear as if it simply fell behind the school. However, some also suggest running a different color makes the trailer stand out, and is more likely to get hit. Or, appearing as if the school is being chased, eliciting a feeding response. We've had good success with both on the agitator bar.
Answer:
The diameter is 1, 5/8" coated.
Where is the best location to run this lure in the spread?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Mo Head Chuggers > Mo Head Chugger Small 7" Trolling Lure
Answer:
The concave face of the Mo Head Small requires a bit of line height to create the optimal action. We recommend running it from a short rigger (if available). If you don't have outriggers, running the lure from a T-top direct to the rod tip will be fine. If you do not have a T-top, try running it to the rod tip in very close, not pinned down, in a mouse trap or transom flat line location. SIMPLE ANSWER: You will want to see the lure pop and chug water approx every 3-4 seconds, if the lure is staying sub surface there isn't enough line angle. If the lure is skittering on the surface, its too close or your too fast.
how do you put new skirts on a fatboy head?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Fatboy Lead Medium 9" Trolling Lure
Answer:
The Fatboy lure skirts are attached and re-skirted the same as a standard trolling lure replacement skirt. CLICK HERE to watch a tutorial. The replacement skirt size for the Fatboy trolling lure is an OC30 for both the inner and the outer.
I have had big blue marlin sail by all lures and natural baits only to zero-in on my hot pink lure. Good going guys
Asked 3 ´years ago | Large Resin Trolling Lures > Jungle Bug Large 14" Trolling Lure
Answer:
We love to hear this! We glad to hear the Jungle Bug is producing for you as well. Thanks again.
Where would you recommend trolling this in a spread without outriggers? I only have rod outriggers.
Asked 4 ´years ago | Mini Skirt Chain
Answer:
The mini skirt chain can be run basically anywhere. However, when we are running 2-4 rods, we generally put this chain in a transom rod holder straight to the rod tip.
Answer:
View our RETURN POLICY for full information on returning products from www.FathomOffshore.com
Answer:
To view all trolling lure replacement skirts, CLICK HERE. The SR71 XL is an OC50 and the MD is a OC27 size.
what size snap swivel is used for the stinger, the one I looked at looks like it is for fluke not suitable for tuna
Asked 2 ´years ago | Bird Head Chain
Answer:
Our Fathom Offshore bird chains are rigged on 150# mono with a 120# stainless steel tournament style snap swivel inside the back of the last bird. These snap swivels are super durable and high quality.
Answer:
We recommend running the mistress in a long position. The aggressive slant face will force the lure to the surface to swim, this could cause it to skip or skitter in the short position or with high line angle.
Answer:
Yes, the Sails call medium lure can be trolled at 5-8knts. However, you will see the best action on the higher end of that range 7-8knts.
Do these come in a storage tube?
Asked 2 ´months ago | OEM Skirt Customers > Adhesive Lined Shrink Tube
Answer:
They do. All our chafe tube, shrink tube and hook locks come packaged in a resealable plastic storage tube.
Answer:
All of our roll up trolling lure storage bags contain a clear PVC type window with a strong Velcro closure. We have found that Velcro holds up to the moisture and corrosion of saltwater well and offers a secure / durable means of closure.
Answer:
While we don't generally sell 600# stainless cable, we do offer it special order in the same 30' lengths with crimps. This can be purchased directly via phone or e-mail order. If you would like to order, please e-mail us directly at info@fathomoffshore.com
Answer:
Yes, the Agitator bar is perfect for catching Bonito and other Tuna such as Blackfin and schooly Yellowfin. If you are specifically targeting Bonita, we would recommend attaching a Half Pint Double O pre rigged lure to the back of the bar. This lure can be found HERE.
Are these hooks the same ones on wahoo bombs
Asked 3 ´years ago | OEM Skirt Customers > Stainless Trolling Lance Hooks - 5 Pack
Answer:
Yes, we use the 9/0 Trolling Lance hook on the Torpedo Lanterns. The completed replacement hook-set can be found HERE.
Can lures be stored with the hooks attached ?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Small Roll Up Lure Bag (6 Pocket)
Answer:
Yes, you can store your lures with leader and hooksets attached. We simply recommend you pull the hook set from the hook lock when rinsing and make sure to remove all saltwater residue and hang to dry before storage.
Answer:
Our Torpedo lanterns are currently only offered in a double hook configuration, however we can easily make them in a single hookset if you prefer. Simply call us at 910-399-6882 or e-mail: Info@fathomoffshore.com and we will be happy to get your build underway.
Can this be rigged with mono or flouro instead of cable?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Torpedo Lures > Jimmy Rig - Cable Ballyhoo Rigged Torpedo
Answer:
Absolutely it can be rigged with either mono or fluorocarbon. We sell the mono rigged Ballyhoo rigs here: https://www.fathomoffshore.com/produc...
Do all of the squids on the bar come pre rigged with hooks?
Asked 3 ´years ago | 36" STI-229 Squid Spreader Bar
Answer:
No, none of the squids on the STI spreader bar have hooks. They act as an attractant / teaser. The last squid contains a snap swivel for you to attach your favorite trolling lure or dead bait rig. Here is a great video explaining the overall basics or spreader bars. https://youtu.be/_os5rNltzIs
Are they small or medium?
Asked 3 ´years ago | New Advancements > Custom Color Pre-Rigged Trolling Lure 2 Pack
Answer:
The two trolling lures included in this pack are small. Approx 7" in length.
Can they be rigged with in line double hooks
Asked 1 ´year ago | High Speed Wahoo Trolling Lures > Fatboy Lead Bullet Trolling Lure
Answer:
As a standard our double hookset is considered 180° (front hook up, back hook down) however, we are able to rig these in 0° configuration (both hooks facing the same way.) Simple place your order, then call 910-399-6882 or e-mail info@fathomoffshore.com with your order number and request the change, we will handle it.
Which one of your lures would you pull behind this
Asked 3 ´years ago | Agitator Bars > Agitator 5" Bird Bar ECM Rigged
Answer:
The agitator bar is very versatile in what you can rig behind it. It really depends on target species, ive run spoons, ballyhoo and lures behind mine with great success. My personal favorite is the Double O in either Extra Small or Small depending on target species. If im looking for smaller dolphin and Blackfin go with XS. Larger Mahi I go with the small.
Can you add an extra grommet on the tail part of the mud flap?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Black | Holo Tuna Flapjack #607
Answer:
Absolutely! We add tail grommets all the time. We will be adding this functionality to the product page shortly. In the meantime, if you place an order for flaps, simply e-mail info@fathomoffshore.com with your order number and request tail grommets.
Answer:
We generally run this trolling lure in the short rigger position of our meat fish trolling spread. The flat face works really well with a little line angle that you would see from a short rigger. Without outriggers, run it direct to the rod tip (don't pin it down) or preferably in from the side launchers in your T-Top. If you need a good long rigger bait, check out the El Nino Loco.
can this lure be trolled without a ballyhoo
Asked 3 ´years ago | Torpedo Lures > Jimmy Rig - Cable Ballyhoo Rigged Torpedo
Answer:
The Jimmy rig is rigged primarily for trolling with Ballyhoo. We do have the same style Torpedo rigged in a lantern configuration that is intended to be pulled naked, no bait. Check them out here!
Best position for this lure ? Corner or rigger? Wave?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Game Changer Extra Large 16" Trolling Lure
Answer:
My personal favorite position for this lure is short rigger (corner) position. I prefer to keep a bit of line angle on the face to give it good action. The lure with appropriate line angle will come up, spit water, then return to expel its bubble trail. After the bubble trail stops the lure will rip side to side quickly before returning to the surface to start the action over again. Great Blue Marlin lure.
Do you have the small black head chuggers with the blue and white skirts
Asked 3 ´years ago | Mini Soft Head 4" Flat Ballyhoo Pre-Rigged
Answer:
If you are looking for a custom color way in quantities of 10 or more, please call 910-399-6882 to discuss. We will try our best to accommodate your requests.
Will this bundle come in these colors shown? could another color be substituted?
Asked 3 ´years ago | OEM Skirt Customers > Swordfish Skirt Bundle
Answer:
The bundle includes the photographed lure skirts in those colors and quantities. We don't offer substitutions in this bundle, however these skirt colors can be purchased individually by calling the office at 910-399-6882.
Are these Lewers pre-rigged what type and size of hooks are used
Asked 3 ´years ago | 2XL Marlin Teasers > Calico Jack Slant 2XL 19" Teaser
Answer:
The 2XL Marlin Teasers are not currently sold rigged with hooks. They are primarily used as a teaser, however they are simply bigger versions of our trolling lures and are constructed the exact same way. We are not saying you couldn't rig them, and the hook size would likely be 13/0 and above, but at this time we do not offer a Hook rigged version.
What position is best for this lure in Large size? Thanks!
Asked 9 ´months ago | Mo Head Chugger Large 14" Trolling Lure
Answer:
We typically run the Mo Head Chugger Large in the short rigger position. This will allow the trolling lure the correct amount of line angle for optimum performance. With an aggressive concave nose, this lure will hold air longer, creating a more dramatic bubble trail, then returning to the surface to breathe.
are these for albacore tuna
Asked 9 ´months ago | Squid Chains and Dredges > Deep Purple Pre-Rigged SR Squid Chain
Answer:
Squid chains can be used as a teaser for a variety of species, including Tuna. If you are looking for rigged baits, and will be specifically targeting smaller to mid size tuna such as Albacore, Blackfin or Bonita, check out our Mini Skirt Chain.
Answer:
All the trolling lures in our Blue Marlin pack are rigged on Momoi Hi-Catch Xtra-Hard Monofilament Leader with Fathom built 920 double spun cable hook sets, featuring MUSTAD 7691S stainless steel hooks. All lures are with exception of the Game Changer are 11/0 hooks with 530lbs leader. The Game Changer is 12/0 hook with 530lbs leader.
What is you most popular color on the pepal grande
Asked 3 ´years ago | Large Resin Trolling Lures > Pepal Grande Large 14" Trolling Lure
Answer:
Our most popular color for the Pepal Grande trolling lure is our Liquid Dolphin. This has been our best seller for 12 years running.
Is this a high speed or normal speed trolling lure
Asked 3 ´years ago | High Speed Wahoo Trolling Lures > Pre-Rigged Wahoo Chain
Answer:
The pre-rigged Wahoo chain can be pulled at trolling speeds of 6-16knts as is. If you're looking to increase the speed into the 20knt range, you may need to add line distance and/or increase weight via trolling bar to keep the chain subsurface.
Answer:
The Single Tier SR20 Dredge does not come with a dredge bag. We do offer the bags for sale individually here: https://www.fathomoffshore.com/produc...
how far back do you set this spreader lure in your spread? short, medium, or long?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Agitator Bars > Agitator 5" Bird Bar Rigged
Answer:
The Fathom Offshore Agitator bar is extremely versatile, and can be fished from almost any position. The angled wings force the bird to skitter on the surface, so line angle from an outrigger isn't as important as it may be for other lures. We have run the bar from a flat line, both rigger positions, and the shotgun all with great success. My personal preference is short rigger, I find the action of the bird acts almost as a teaser as well as a rigged bait, increasing the attention of all the lures in the spread.
What size Ballyhoo are you running with the spring?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Torpedo Lures > Jimmy Rig - Cable Ballyhoo Rigged Torpedo
Answer:
This trolling lure uses the large ballyhoo spring that's best suited for select to horse size ballyhoo.
What size fish weight is recommended for these?
Asked 3 ´years ago | Double Tier "No Tangle" SR30 Blue Silver fleck 12"+12" Dredge
Answer:
Really depends on how fast you are going, however under normal trolling conditions the 4lb to 6lb fish weight would be sufficient to keep the 12x12 dredge subsurface.
