New to board

[T-Bone]

Howdy all. We're new to the board and have a couple of questions. Since my husband isn't much of a computer user guess I'll be the inbetween. Anyhow, we're new to ocean fishing but have ventured out somewhat in our 21' sled. Would like to go halibut fishing over the all-depth weekend but don't have any clues as to where to go that's not way out. Any suggestions? A question that I have is how many of you venture way out in sleds? We feel pretty comfortable but know that you can get in trouble pretty quick too.

[Stryker]

You’re correct about the “get in trouble pretty quick” thing.
Sleds are not a good idea in the ocean. The hull design in wrong and the jet comes out of the water often. This is bad; you loose steering and forward momentum. If you loose steering in the wrong situation even for a moment you can find yourself in trouble. :shocked: Plus a sled hull design could leave you hurting if you have to travel long distances in choppy water.

Just my opinion.

I agree with Striker but there are lots of river boats out there. Try to get an open seat if there are any available this late.
Do you have a GPS and VHF on the boat?

[T-Bone]

We have all the stuff - GPS, VHF, kicker, flares, etc. Even learning how to paper navigate just in case. We've been out about 13 miles but it was nice and flat. Anytime we've had any doubts we turn right around and come back in.

[WP]

Sounds like your set-up and that you have good caution sense. Be selective and fish with other boats when ever you can. The flat bottom is a pain...literally! The jet is fuel depleting and, on rough water, unstable. Being 30 miles off shore can be an adventure or a high risk. Judge your own capacity, your boats ability, and the risk/reward ratio for you and your crew. Make a decision that makes sense for those factors. Have fun!!!!
WP

[Aqua-Holic]

T-Bone....if you are departing Newport...look at your charts and locate Stonewall Banks (Rock-Pile) about 15 miles out. You can also use the search feature on this site and find some numbers to plug into your GPS. Good Luck

[Beer Waggin]

No worries about having a sled, you just have to pick your days and stay on the beach sometimes.
After taking a brutal pounding last year in a 20' sled, I said I'd never do it again in a small sled. Yes a 20' sled is small on the ocean. A 21 footer isn't much bigger, but every foot counts. Watch the predictions and go with the Dogs and you'll be all right.
I'd head to the Rock Pile for the next opener. Go buy a chart and do some looking AND hook up with one of the many Dog boats going out. You'll find halibut in many locations on the Pile this time of year and more than likely pick up some very nice Lings.
Do a few searches to find out what rigs and bait work the best, but just to make it easy on you, bring lots of fresh herring, sharp hooks set up like you're trolling for salmon and bounce that weight off the bottom.

Good Luck!

[BOTTOM TIME DIVER]

I agree with n.r.d- there are days that there will be no problem. The original dories were not even 16 feet and no motor. One local has fished a sled for as long as I can remember. I have fished a 18'flat myself. Start out slow and get the hang of it.

Good Fishin'!


[ 06-06-2003, 09:56 PM: Message edited by: BOTTOM TIME DIVER ]