Pacific Bonito
Sarda chiliensis
Bonito chase bait schools near the surface in fast-moving packs. Catching live bait on a sabiki first, then swimming it out, outperforms any static bottom rig.
Typical size: 16-28in · Peak season: summer, fall. Always check current CDFW regulations for size and bag limits before keeping fish.
Sabiki Rig
beginnerpier & jetty & boat
A pre-tied string of small flasher hooks that catches live bait like anchovies and sardines, often several at once. Not for the target species itself, this is how you catch the bait for the other rigs.
- Main line10-15 lb monofilament
- LeaderPre-tied sabiki leader, 6 small hooks
- Leader lengthPre-tied at about 5ft total, hooks spaced 8-10in apart
- Hooks#6 - #10 sabiki hooks (pre-tied)
- WeightBank or bar sinker, 1-2oz below the rig
- Line to sinker12-18in from the bottom of the sabiki leader to the sinker
- BaitUse to catch live anchovies first
Wire Leader Rig
Swaps the usual fluorocarbon leader for wire, since sharp teeth cut straight through mono.
Bait That Works