Now we have the baits out… The hurry up and wait begins. When you fish goggle eyes long enough you start to learn what they're saying through the rod tips telegraphing their movements. A quick pull down usually indicates a kingfish is around; their bite is usually quick and often involves a sky rocket where they either launch from under with the bait in their teeth or launch and then land on the bait. Mono leaders here usually, but not always ends, with a cut off. Wahoo are a similar story. The line going slack often means a cuda has got the bait swimming back at the boat. You have to watch for this, be sure and mention "Mr. Bait, that propeller is not your friend." Finally we get to them getting increasingly agitated and coming toward the surface. Bingo! That one is telling "! A sail is about to eat me."
This is time to be in position - thumb on the spool, clicker off or with the spin, line off that hook and in your finger tips with the bail open. You'll see a purple spot then a bill will start wagging behind the bait. You'll feel a distinct tap and its time to let him eat. A full four or five seconds is plenty. Reel tight and swing with short strokes for J hooks or just keep reeling with circle…The fish will probably launch and start a blistering run. Be careful though that he doesn't turn and run back at you. Be prepared to wind like hell to take up the slack and keep the line tight.
A typical fight will go about 10 to 30 minutes. A typical fish may be 40 to 60 pounds and around 7 feet, tip to tip. Some are considerably bigger…

At boatside, get the hook back if you can do it without hurting the fish. Otherwise cut the leader as close to the mouth as you can.