Killer Jigs
Guide: Captain Ed Darwin
Homeport: Millcreek, Maryland
Experience: 60 years as a charter captain of the Becky D
Tactic: “In summer, we do a lot of jigging,” says Darwin. “It’s a killer method.” Darwin uses a 1/4-ounce leadhead jig adorned with yellow or chartreuse feathers. “Look for the edge of an oyster bed or rock pile, just drop the jig to the bottom, then reel and jerk all the way back to the top.”
Slug-Go It Out
Guide: Captain Chester “Skid” Rowe
Homeport: Kennebec River, Maine
Experience: 11 years as a charter captain of the Hillbilly
Tactic: “My favorite summer tactic is to use a nine-inch Slug-Go,” says Rowe, who rigs it weightless with a 5/0 or 6/0 straight-shank Aberdeen hook. “Run it so the hook comes out the belly.” The first time he unveiled the big Slug-Go he caught 26 fish on 30 casts-all weighing 15 to 20 pounds.
On The Line
Guide: Captain Neil Vitullo
Homeport: Point Judith, Rhode Island
Experience: Landed 13 fish over 50 pounds in last the two seasons
Tactic: Although many anglers use super-sensitive, super-thin braided lines, Neil Vitullo sticks with 20-pound monofilament for live-lining eels. “It’s easier to handle and more forgiving,” says Vitullo. “I like the stretch.”
– Ric Burnley
