The following list includes tips, techniques, tackle, bait and other information for catching black sea bass off the coast of Chincoteague Island Virginia.
* Fish directly over structure, including shipwrecks, rocks, rubble, bridge pilings and artificial reefs.
In the fall, check ocean shoals as sea bass sometimes congregate with other species to feed on migrating baitfish.
* Use a basic top and bottom fishing rig when snags and hang ups are not a problem.
* Switch to a single hook rig in areas of extremely rough bottom.
* Carry a wide selection of sinkers ranging from 3-8 oz.
* When targeting large smaller sea bass only, use large jigs or single baits such as whole split squid mantles or fish fillets.
* Use a rod and reel that can handle depths from 30-200 feet, and 3-8 oz. sinkers.
* Fish with braided lines for added sensitivity.
* Use baits such as squid, croaker, bluefish, herring, sand eels, blue crabs, green crabs, mole crabs, fiddler crabs, shrimp and clams.
* When using cut crab, leave the legs on and check baits often. Replace baits that have had the meat sucked out of the shell.
* Avoid excessive tension on the line and pay attention for minute signs of nibbling. Give a short tug upward when movement is felt. If the fish appears to be in the line, set the hook, lift the fish away from structure and then reel in gently.
* Tag and release undersize fish.
* Take no more fish than needed. Release female fish when possible.
* Identify sexes – Male sea bass have blue coloration and a raised forehead. Females have a more mottled appearance and sloping forehead.
* Support Artificial Reef programs.
Black Sea Bass Links