Noob asks: Is Pat Holmes "Iron" rig story a good way to 'get started'?

[steveooo]

Originally Posted by Mongo Johnson

In support of the LB area part of this community, is there a shop that knows the sport and is competitively priced on rigs that might help me get going?

Go here.

http://www.oexsunsetbeach.com/

While he doesn't sell anything in the way of rods and reels, it is a virtual playground of equipment for kayak fishermen. Andy (Iceman) also knows the sport better than just about anyone, and would be happy to chat about techniques and when to use certain rigs in certain situations. Plus, while chatting, you'll probably see a steady stream of hot chicks in Bikini's coming in and out of the shop to rent SUP's

In regard to your question, the yoyo is very effective when the fish are feeding deeper, and they want to eat the iron While its a fun way to fish, it is not too often that they are keyed in on this. If you are primarily fishing LB area, your chances will be very slim of hanging a game fish on the deep iron, unless you find a lost halibut or ling-cod.

If you are looking to save money, one or 2 rigs will be all you will need to simply get out on the water.

For 1 economical starter rig, I'd get a Sealine 30 or 40- you can typically find them on sale at Big 5 or other places for about $100. The reels are virtually bullet-proof for the abuse we give them on the kayak. If you have the extra coin, I'd load it to the top with 65 lb braid and buy a spool of 30 and 40 lb flouro.

For a rod, I'd look for something 6-7', rated 20-50 lb or 30-60 lb. Personally, I think the Ugly-stick Tigers are alot of bang for your buck. You can find them @ Walmart for about $60. Again, they are pretty bullet-proof and will give you years of hard use on the yak.

That rig, although not the perfect rig for all techniques, will work for most techniques (live bait, yo-yo, surface iron).

If you are fishing the LB area mostly, I'd also look at another lighter set-up for fishing halibut/bass, because they are both plentiful up in that area.

Good luck in whatever you choose