How to make bait on Sabiki rig in Kelp

[Dfender33]

I'm a rookie when it comes to kayak fishing. I mostly fish in the Malibu area and have ordered an Ahi Sabiki pole and a few rigs. I know how to fish them. I've fished them on my friend's boat.

How do I fish a sabiki rig from a kayak in the kelp? Do I need a fish finder? How would a fish finder be helpful?

I basically would like to make about 20 baits (ideally macs, sardines, herrings, etc.), toss them in a floating bait net and use them to drift for Halibut, Yellowtail or White Sea Bass on the bottom.

Sorry if this question has been answered before. i'm having a hard time finding info on making bait from a kayak in the kelp area especially without a fish finder.

[DanaPT]

Your fish finder will find structure and baits. You don't need it to catch bait. A good sabiki ... many here will trim to 3 or 4 hooks. Size matters. I think I use 8.

Try tipping the sabiki with a scent or bait. Weight and drop to different depths. Up, down, troll.... whatever it takes.

No real secrets.

Too close to the kelp and you'll get hung up. Try different areas look for breaks on the surface. Macs chase bait around, sometimes you just get lucky. Other times you'll wander aimlessly looking.

[Zed]

My bait finder has always been a shiny lure at the end of the sabiki. Just troll around. Thell find you.

[Mahigeer]

Try fan casting as you move toward your fishing location.

Ahi bait rod is great for kayak/boat fishing. I use it on pier too.
A low baitcaster reel works best on that rod. A min. (3) oz. sinker is a good idea too.


I never use bait on Sabiki (bait) rigs during daylight.
The action of the feathers is what makes Sabiki rigs work.

It is waste of money to burry the feathers that you paid extra for, in bait.
If using bait, simply tie several hooks and save some money.
At night when feathers cannot be seen, then bait is ok.

[Hunters Pa]

I like to use a 2-4 oz diamond jig ow swimbait on the bottom instead of a weight. Never know what is in the area and may be attracted to bait in distress

[bassmanben]

I love trolling sabikis while out to the zone. use a heavy enough weight (i use a large kastmaster) and you'll find bait. Once you find them, drop on 'em.