Squid-Moon-Stomachs

[Fish-N-Fool]

The recent full moon brought about what many tuna fishermen call; a slow bite. This is due to increased nighttime feeding activity. The full moon is perfect for giving pelagic the ability to see silhouettes of bait near the surface. Taking advantage of the squid/moon relationship, while not insuring success, can provide action like we lucked into yesterday (Monday) in 45-55 fathoms in Washington Canyon. The afternoon bite came on with constant yellowfin explosions on spreader bars, green machines and natural squid rigs (see “How to rig Squid” under the rigging articles section). The crew even got to experience the chaos of a triple header. Added into the mix was the successful release of a white (raised two) and a dozen mahi. Squid was our ticket to success. Checking stomach contents of the first tuna/fish caught can be a key to success. Our first tuna of the day quickly indicated what needed to be in the spread after the stomach revealed squid (19 to be exact). The spread was quickly changed over to three spreader bars, rigged squid and green machines. Checking stomach contents and matching the bite can increase the number of fish thrown in the kill box. Speaking of fish kept, I remove the stomach on all fish kept for consumption and pack the empty cavity with ice. The quality of fish deteriorates as soon as it is removed from the water. Cooling the fish down quickly with ice (lots of it) helps preserve the flavor and is greatly appreciated when on the dinner table.
Good luck to those fishing the WMO next week, I hope everyone has the opportunity to take a turn at the scales!

[gradywhite273]

thanks for the tips john, outstanding job on the catch.

[albemarle305]

we caught a yft on sunday, with the full moon I figure his stomach would be full of squid, to my surprise it was completely empty, Not even a speck.

scott