Dear Friends of the Polaris Supreme,

For those of you who have been with us on the Polaris Supreme, it's great to have you out with us again this year. For those of you who will be joining us for the first time, it's my pleasure to welcome you into the Polaris Supreme family, as we look forward to being of service to you all. I wanted to make a few suggestions to make your SUPREME ADVENTURE more enjoyable.

Upon your arrival to Fisherman's Landing (2838 Garrison St.) in Point Loma on the morning of your trip, you should be able to check in right away. Our check in begins as soon as the previous trip is unloaded, Our boat secretary, Susan, will be either at the counter in Fisherman's Landing Tackle store, or on board the boat if they have gone to the fuel dock. Early check in allows us to depart as soon as 10:00 am on some trips. Even though our schedule says we will depart at 2:00 pm, the boat will actually depart as soon as all anglers are checked in. Please don't be late. This can cost us crucial fishing time.

When packing, it would be great if you could limit the amount of gear you bring on board. I'm not talking about the gear that you use all the time. I want you to bring all the new tackle you have purchased for your long-range adventure and feel comfortable that you have exactly what you need to fulfill your angling dreams. I am however, talking about not bringing every piece of equipment you have at home. There is a lot of gear that you will never use on one of these trips and that's best left at home. Feel free to talk with any of us here on the Polaris Supreme about what tackle is necessary for any given trip and we'll help you out with suggestions. If we can all limit the amount of unnecessary gear we bring on board, the result will be a more comfortable and less cluttered environment on board the Polaris Supreme.

One thing in particular is that we don't want you to bring any milk crates "Rocket Launchers" on board. If you would like to attach rods holders to the side or corners of your tackle box, please feel free to do so. Leaving the milk crates behind will result in more space for you and a much better fishing environment.

Remember, if you would like a suggested tackle, or have any questions at all regarding your trip, please call the Polaris Supreme office anytime as its our pleasure to make sure you're ready to go. Also, we do have on board the Polaris Supreme all terminal tackle, monofilament, and spectra line at reasonable prices, This option may also enable you to limit the amount of gear you bring on board for your trip.

We are looking forward to having you out with us on the Polaris Supreme. If there is anything we can do before your departure please just give us a call anytime. We are committed to making your trip the best long-range adventure you've ever had. Thanks again and welcome to the Polaris Supreme.

1-3 Day Trips

Our 1-3 day trips on the Polaris Supreme mainly target tuna (albacore, yellowfin, bluefin and bigeye) yellowtail and dorado. These species are fished in open water and on kelp patties from 50-300 miles from our home port of San Diego. All of these trips are run during the summer months when the waters outside of San Diego are at their warmest and abounding with these warm water species. Usually July 1st to September 15th.

These trips, limited passenger loads, are an excellent introduction to ocean sportfishing, the Polaris Supreme, and her crew. To the From beginner novice to experienced angler we welcome you to join us this season. We hope you will find this list helpful in making preparations.

In the following we have complied a list of the type of gear and tackle most commonly brought on a 1-3 day trips. It is by not means a complete list and some people may even consider it to be more than needed. Our main goal is to help our passengers be as prepared as possible for their trip aboard the Polaris Supreme.

Personal Gear:

Duffel Bags: Instead of hard luggage use duffel bags. It is more convenient for storage.
Pants: Bring 1 change per day. Light material is preferred so they dry quickly.
Shirts: Bring 1 change per day. If you are sun sensitive - long sleeves would be in order. Light fabric for quick drying and coolness in hotter weather.
Socks: Definitely bring a spare pair for every day.
Jacket and Sweatshirt: It is sometimes very cool even during summer months when we run these trips.
Sneakers: A good arch support helps keep your feet from getting sore.
Rubber Boots: Make sure they are soft rubber and have a good arch support.
Hats: Bring a baseball cap.
Sun Glasses: polarized to cut the glare and help see into the water, with straps to prevent lose over the side.
Sunscreen: Sweat-proof, water-proof, broad spectrum.
Toiletries: Bath towels, shampoo, cream rinse, soap, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Tools: Dikes, duck bill pliers, holder, and belt. Hook sharpener.
Rod Belts: Light leather type is fine for smaller fish. But a heavy pad and butt type harness may be necessary when the bigger fish are around.
Camera and Film: For a vivid memory of your trip. Video recorders are often brought on trips as well.
Cocktail Mixes: We carry hard liquor sea stores on board but no mixes or cigarettes. Remember our indoor areas are non-smoking.
Seasick Medicine: Check with your doctor for preferred type. (scapolimine, bonamine, merrizine, wristbands, etc.)

Rods & Reels:

30 lb. live bait outfit (1)
40 lb. live bait/jig outfit (1)
50 lb. live bait outfit (1)
60 lb. live bait/trolling outfit (1)

There are several variations on model numbers and types of rods and reels to numerous to list here. Your favorite California slat water tackle store can help you with these variations. If you need information on the location of the nearest qualified tackle store near you we would be glad to send you a list. Just drop us a line

When Choosing your rods most manufacturers will give you a range of line classes that a particular rod is rated for, always use the lower half of the ratings. For example if a rod is rated for 30-60 lb., you will probably be looking at a 30 or 40 lb. class rod. Seeker and Calstar are two of the better rod blanks for ocean sportfishing. The guides on your rods should be ring type, hardened stainless steel for rods up to 40 lb. All rods from 50 lb. and up should be stainless steel roller guides. Aftco makes the best roller guides. And all rods in the 50 lb. class and up should have a 4-way gimbaled rod butt.

When choosing reels in the lighter line class up to 50 lbs., Shimano, Newell and Penn all make a wide range of reels. For 60 lbs. and up you need to stick with Shimano and Penn and go to their 2 speed solid frame reels. Shimano definitely has the lead in quality and reliability here. The Shimano TLD 30 II two-speed is our favorite reel for a 50-60 lb. rig to land the 80-200 lb. bluefin and bigeye on these trips.

There are several brands of quality line available for the anglers, we recommend P-Line.

Terminal Tackle:

Hooks - Eagle Claw, laser sharp. L118Mag - bronze finish.
24 ea. - 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0 and 6/0
Line - We don't recommend bringing spare line on these trips. If you need to re-fill you can purchase line on board.
Sinkers - Split-shot 24 ea. - 1/4 oz. & 3/8 oz.
Rubber-core 12 ea. 1/2 oz. & 3/4 oz.
Casting Lures - 3 total, small heavies, assort colors, chrome, blue/white, green/yellow, etc. with treble hooks. single hooks are okay. When deciding on lures it is sometimes best to wait and consult your tackle store prior to leaving on your trip. There may be some hot new jig out.
Trolling Lures - 1 Mexican Flag, 1 Zucchini, 2 stainless steel double hooks. We have trolling rods set-up for all passengers to use when it is their turn to troll.
Squid catchers - 2 total (green or white)
Tackle Box - Wood or Plastic to store your tackle

Remember for the angler not wishing to make the initial investment you can borrow rods, reels, harnesses and rod belts on board the boat free of charge when you book your trip. Just reserve then with Susan. Tackle can be purchased on board as needed at reasonable tackle store prices.

If you are confused as to how you will be rigging your gear, don't fret, we have tackle seminars on all of our trips. There are also several helpful books. Stand-Up Fishing by Nick Curcionie is an excellent choice.

4-6 Day Trips

On our 4-6 day trips we have gone as far north of San Diego as 300 miles in search of albacore and as far south as Alijos Rocks for wahoo and tuna. Although most 3-6 day trips don't make these long journeys, it just goes to show that we are relentless in our efforts in producing the ultimate fishing experience for our customers. Because of the wide variety of fish we have possibilities of encountering on these trips, we recommend you contact our office a couple of days before departing on your trip and we can get you more focused on the areas you might be fishing and the species you might encounter.

In the following we have complied a list of the type of gear and tackle most commonly brought on a 4-6 day trips. It is by not means a complete list and some people may even consider it to be more than needed. Our main goal is to help our passengers be as prepared as possible for their trip aboard the Polaris Supreme.

Personal Gear:

Duffel Bags: Instead of hard luggage use duffel bags. It is more convenient for storage.
Pants: Bring 1 change per day. Light material is preferred so they dry quickly.
Shirts: Bring 1 change per day. If you are sun sensitive - long sleeves would be in order. Light fabric for quick drying and coolness in hotter weather.
Socks: Definitely bring a pair for every day, plus an extra pair.
Shorts: For those hot sultry days to sunbathe and keep cool.
Jacket and Sweatshirt: It is sometimes very cool even during summer months when we run these trips.
Sneakers: A good arch support helps keep your feet from getting sore.
Rubber Boots: Make sure they are soft rubber and have a good arch support.
Sandals: For hotter days down south.
Hats: Straw or the type with the flaps down the back are preferred in hotter weather.
Otherwise a baseball caps are fine
Light Rain Gear: Very seldom used but appreciated when needed.
Sun Glasses: polarized to cut the glare and help see into the water,
with straps to prevent lose over the side.
Sunscreen: Sweat-proof, water-proof, broad spectrum. SPF 15 or higher.
Toiletries: Bath towels, shampoo, cream rinse, soap, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Tools: Dikes, duck bill pliers, holder, and belt. Hook sharpener.
Rod Belts: Light leather type is fine for smaller fish.
But if the big bluefin or bigeye are around you should have the heavy aluminum type with a gimbal bar.
Harness: Should be the type that fit around your butt that you can sit it.
A kidney belt that rides low on your back is of. This will be used with your heavy rod belt
for the big bluefin and bigeye tuna.
Knee Pads: Come in handy when fighting large tuna.
Rubber gloves: For handling your fish at the end of the trip.
Camera and Film: For a vivid memory of your trip. Video recorders are often brought on trips as well.
Our TV system is set up so you can play it back at the end of the day.
Entertainment: During travel time it's nice to have books and magazines to read.
You can also bring VHS tapes and Walkman cassette players.
Writing Material: Notebook, stationary, pens and pencils for making notes on what to bring next trip or keeping a log of the trip.
Cocktail Mixes: We carry hard liquor sea stores on board but no mixes or cigarettes.
Remember our indoor areas are non-smoking.
Seasick Medicine: Check with your doctor for preferred type.
(scapolimine, bonamine, merrizine, wristbands, etc.)

Rods & Reels:

20 lb. live bait outfit (1)
30 lb. live bait outfit (1)
40 lb. live bait/jig outfit (1)
50 lb. live bait outfit (1)
60 lb. live bait/trolling outfit (1)

There are several brands of quality line available for the anglers, we recommend P-Line

Terminal Tackle:

Hooks - Eagle Claw, laser sharp. L118Mag - bronze finish.
24 ea. - 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0 and 6/0
Line - We don't recommend bringing spare line on these trips.
If you need to re-fill you can purchase line on board.
Sinkers - Split-shot 24 ea. - 1/4 oz. & 3/8 oz.
Rubber-core 12 ea. 1/2 oz. & 3/4 oz.
Bass Lures - Lead Heads 5 ea. 3/4 oz., 1 oz., & 1 1/2 oz.
Plastic Swim Baits - 5 ea. 5", 6", 8" and 10" in assorted colors.
Check with your local tackle store for any hot new colors
Casting Lures - 3 total, small heavies, assort colors, chrome, blue/white, green/yellow, etc. with treble hooks. single hooks are okay.
When deciding on lures it is sometimes best to wait and consult your tackle store
prior to leaving on your trip. There may be some hot new jig out.
Trolling Lures - 1 Mexican Flag, 1 Zucchini, 2 stainless steel double hooks.
We have trolling rods set-up for all passengers to use when it is their turn to troll.
Squid catchers - 2 total (green or white)
Tackle Box - Wood or Plastic to store your tackle

5-6 Day Bass & Yellowtail

On our 5-6 day Calico Bass and Yellowtail skiff trips the main species targeted is usually calico bass, but we never turn away a good yellowtail bite. you will be fishing from the Polaris Supreme for bass and yellowtail as well as from the skiffs. While 12 anglers are fishing on the Polaris Supreme the other eight anglers will be out in groups of two in four, eighteen foot skiffs for approximately 2 1/2 hour rotations, fishing on rocky jetties, boilers, in kelp beds and slow trolling live bait. The skiffs truly give you the advantage of having plenty of space at the rail on the big boat and let the angler in the skiffs target virgin untouched areas for calico bass and yellowtail.

The areas we will target will be San Martin Island, Jeronimo Island, Benitos Island, Cedros Island, Nativad Island, Pt. Eugina and Chester Rocks. These areas are truly world class and you will not find better calico bass fishing anywhere else in the world.

The type of tackle you will need for this trip is going to range from bass gear (10-20 lb. rigs) to yellowtail gear (30-50 lb. rigs).

In the following we have complied a list of the type of gear and tackle most commonly brought on a 5-6 day calico bass and yellowtail skiff trips. It is by not means a complete list and some people may even consider it to be more than needed. Our main goal is to help our passengers be as prepared as possible for their trip aboard the Polaris Supreme.

Personal Gear:

Duffel Bags: Instead of hard luggage use duffel bags. It is more convenient for storage.
Pants: Bring 1 change per day. Light material is preferred so they dry quickly.
Shirts: Bring 1 change per day. If you are sun sensitive - long sleeves would be in order.
Light fabric for quick drying and coolness in hotter weather.
Socks: Definitely bring a pair for every day, plus an extra pair.
Shorts: For those hot sultry days to sunbathe and keep cool.
Jacket and Sweatshirt: It is sometimes very cool even during summer months when we run these trips.
Sneakers: A good arch support helps keep your feet from getting sore.
Rubber Boots: Make sure they are soft rubber and have a good arch support.
Sandals: For hotter days down south.
Hats: Straw or the type with the flaps down the back are preferred in hotter weather.
Otherwise a baseball caps are fine
Light Rain Gear: Very seldom used but appreciated when needed.
Sun Glasses: polarized to cut the glare and help see into the water,
with straps to prevent lose over the side.
Sunscreen: Sweat-proof, water-proof, broad spectrum. SPF 15 or higher.
Toiletries: Bath towels, shampoo, cream rinse, soap, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Tools: Dikes, duck bill pliers, holder, and belt. Hook sharpener.
Rod Belts: Light leather type is fine for smaller fish. But a the heavy pad and butt type harness may be necessary when big fish are around.
Camera and Film: For a vivid memory of your trip. Video recorders are often brought on trips as well.
Our TV system is set up so you can play it back at the end of the day.
Cocktail Mixes: We carry hard liquor sea stores on board but no mixes or cigarettes.
Remember our indoor areas are non-smoking.
Seasick Medicine: Check with your doctor for preferred type.
(scapolimine, bonamine, merrizine, wristbands, etc.)

Rods & Reels:

Bass Rods and Reels

10 lb. outfit (1)
20 lb. live outfit (1)

The rods used for bass vary in length from 7 to 10 feet. Stick with the rods in the 7-8 foot range to start. As far a composition you can get them in fiberglass, graphite or a combination of both. Fiberglass will be a lot stronger but not as sensitive when you get a bite. Graphite is much more sensitive but nowhere near as strong as fiberglass. Most anglers prefer mixes, a combination of fiberglass and graphite. You get the best of both worlds. There are many rod brands. Some of the most popular are G. Loomis, Shimano, Seeker, and Lamiglas.

Reels should match the line class you are using. As far as brands you have a huge variety such as Shimano, Diawa, Newell or Penn. Probably the hottest bass reel out on the market right now is Shimano's Calcutta.

Yellowtail rods and reels

30 lb. live bait/jig outfit (1)
40 lb. live bait outfit (1)
50 lb. live bait/trolling outfit (1)

Your rods for fishing for yellowtail on these trips should be about 6 foot in length and made of fiberglass, not graphite. When choosing your rods most manufacturers will give you a range of line classes that a particular rod is rated for, always use the lower half of the ratings. For example if a rod is rated for 30-60 lb., you will probably be looking at a 30 or 40 lb. class rod. Seeker and Calstar are two of the better rod blanks for ocean sportfishing. The guides on your rods should be ring type, hardened stainless steel for rods up to 40 lb. All rods from 50 lb. and up should be stainless steel roller guides. Aftco makes the best roller guides. And all rods in the 50 lb. class and up should have a 4-way gimbaled rod butt.

There are several brands of quality line available for the anglers, we recommend P-Line.

Terminal Tackle:

Hooks - Eagle Claw, laser sharp. L118Mag - bronze finish.
24 ea. - 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0 and 6/0
Line - We don't recommend bringing spare line on these trips. If you need to re-fill you can purchase line on board.
Sinkers - Split-shot 24 ea. - 1/4 oz. & 3/8 oz.
Rubber-core 12 ea. 1/2 oz. & 1 oz.
Sliding Sinkers - 24 ea. 2 oz., 4 oz., & 6 oz.
Bass Lures - Lead Heads 20ea. 3/4 oz., 1 oz., & 1 1/2 oz.
Plastic Swim Baits - 20 ea. 5", 6", 8" and 10" in assorted colors. Check with your local tackle store for any hot new colors
Casting Lures - 3 total, small heavies, assort colors, chrome, blue/white, green/yellow, etc. with treble hooks. single hooks are okay. When deciding on lures it is sometimes best to wait and consult your tackle store prior to leaving on your trip. There may be some hot new jig out.
Tackle Box - Wood or Plastic to store your tackle. Make sure to bring a small plastic one for the skiff.

7-10 Day Trips

On our 7-10 day fall trips you will catch the largest variety of fish of any trip. Because of this you will need the largest variety of tackle. These trips on the Polaris Supreme are ideal for the novice angler who can get away for a week to ten days. The type of tackle you will need to bring on these trips is pretty consistent, but there is always a few changes from trip to trip and year to year. We always recommend that you call our office a few days before your trip and see what is new or different.

Personal Gear:

Duffel Bags: Instead of hard luggage use duffel bags. It is more convenient for storage.
Pants: Bring 1 change per day. Light material is preferred so they dry quickly.
Shirts: Bring 1 change per day. If you are sun sensitive - long sleeves would be in order. Light fabric for quick drying and coolness in hotter weather.
Socks: Definitely bring a pair for every day, plus an extra pair.
Shorts: For those hot sultry days to sunbathe and keep cool.
Jacket and Sweatshirt: For those cold nights fishing bait.
Sneakers: A good arch support helps keep your feet from getting sore.
Rubber Boots: Make sure they are soft rubber and have a good arch support.
Sandals: For hotter days down south.
Hats: Straw or the type with the flaps down the back are preferred in hotter weather. Otherwise a baseball caps are fine
Light Rain Gear: Very seldom used but appreciated when needed.
Sun Glasses: polarized to cut the glare and help see into the water, with straps to prevent lose over the side.
Sunscreen: Sweat-proof, water-proof, broad spectrum. SPF 15 or higher.
Toiletries: Bath towels, shampoo, cream rinse, soap, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Tools: Dikes, duck bill pliers, holder, and belt. Hook sharpener.
Rod Belts: Light leather type is fine for smaller fish. But for 7 day trips and longer you should have the heavy aluminum type with a gimbal bar
Harness: Should be the type that fit around your butt that you can sit it. A kidney belt that rides low on your back is ok.
Knee Pads: Come in handy when fighting large tuna.
Rubber gloves: For handling your fish at the end of the trip.
Camera and Film: For a vivid memory of your trip. Video recorders are often brought on trips as well. Our TV system is set up so you can play it back at the end of the day.
Entertainment: During travel time it's nice to have books and magazines to read. You can also bring VHS tapes and Walkman cassette players.
Writing Material: Notebook, stationary, pens and pencils for making notes on what to bring next trip or keeping a log of the trip.
Cocktail Mixes: We carry hard liquor sea stores on board but no mixes or cigarettes. Remember our indoor areas are non-smoking.
Seasick Medicine: Check with your doctor for preferred type. (scapolimine, bonamine, merrizine, wristbands, etc.)

Rods & Reels:

20 lb. live bait outfit (1)
30 lb. live bait outfit (1)
40 lb. live bait/jig outfit (1)
50 lb. live bait outfit (1)
60 lb. live bait outfit (1)
80 lb. trolling outfit (1)

There are several brands of quality line available for the anglers, we recommend P-Line.

Terminal Tackle:

Hooks - Eagle Claw, laser sharp. L118Mag - bronze finish.
36 ea. - 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0, 6/0 and 9/0
Mustad 7691 Big Game 10 ea. 7/0
Line - The most common line size where extra is needed is 40 lb. and 50 lb. If you need to re-fill you can purchase line on board.
Mono Leader Material - 30 ft. of 200 lb. mono for leaders. One pair of crimping pliers for mono. Mono and wire crimping pliers are different. Get one of each.
Mono Sleeves - 40 ea. for 200 lb. mono
Wire - 30 foot spool of 40 lb. Sevenstrand (1)
30 foot spool of 60 lb. Sevenstrand (2)
30 foot spool of 90 lb. Sevenstrand (1)
30 foot spool of 400 lb. Duratest 49 strand (1)
All stainless steel wire is UNCOATED (no plastic coating)
Wire Sleeves - 300 ea. A-2, 100 ea. A-3, 24 ea. A-8 All Sevenstrand Sleeves
One wire crimping pliers
Rings - Heavy duty welded wire type 24 ea. #5 or small, 50 ea. #7 or medium, 24 ea. # 9 or large
Swivels - 6 ea. # 7 ball bearing type
Sinkers - Split-shot 24 ea. - 1/4 oz. & 3/8 oz.
Rubber-core 24 ea. 1/2 oz. & 1 oz.
Sliding 12 ea. 1 oz., 2 oz., 4 oz., 6 oz., 8 oz., & 12 oz.
Torpedo 12 ea. 6 oz., 8 oz., & 12 oz.,
Bass Lures - Lead Heads 5 ea. 3/4 oz., 1 oz., & 1 1/2 oz.
Plastic Swim Baits - 5 ea. 5", 6", 8" and 10" in assorted colors. Check with your local tackle store for any hot new colors
Casting Lures - 6 total, small heavies, assort colors, chrome, blue/white, green/yellow, etc. with treble hooks. single hooks are okay.
12 total small heavies assorted chrome, bronze purple anodized, etc., with forged single hooks.
2 total large heavies white or chrome with treble hooks.
"Bombs" 6 total. When deciding on lures it is sometimes best to wait and consult your tackle store prior to leaving on your trip. There may be some hot new jig out.
Trolling Lures - 1 Mexican Flag, 1 Zucchini, 2 stainless steel double hooks.
2 Bonita Plugs or Flashdancers Black/Orange favored color.
1 Marlin jig and a 10/0 forged single hook. Green/Black is a popular color.
We have trolling rods set-up for all passengers to use when it is their turn to troll.
Squid catchers - 2 total (green or white)
Mackerel Catchers - 2 ea. 4 fly Handy Dandys with #4 hook and 30 lb. test.
2 ea/ 4 fly Yo-Zuri with small hooks
Tackle Box - Wood or Plastic to store your tackle

14 - 18 Day Trips

On 14-18 day trips our main destination is the Revilla-gigedos Islands (San Benedicto, Socorro, Roca Partida, Clarion and Hurricane Bank). Our main objective is giant yellowfin tuna and wahoo, the speedsters of the sea. The gear you will need to bring on these trips does not vary much but it would be a good idea to contact our office a few days before your trip is going to depart to see if there are any new developments. For the anglers whose goal is to land a 200 plus pound tuna to have exciting fast pace wahoo fishing this is the trip for you. Our lite loads will only increase your odds of landing a record fish. And with our two 18 foot skiffs you will find even more room at the rail.

We would like to recommend a few new ways of rigging your gear this season that we think will greatly improve your hook and land ratio for big tuna.

Before I get started, let me mention that you can bring out your gear as it is and we will be able to get you up to speed while traveling down to the Islands. If you don't have the time or any of this is confusing to you, just forget this note and we will get you fixed up on board. All you need to do is show up with your normal gear.

In the following I have broken each rig down to the size of reel, line size and type, the top shot and leaders, what style of fishing you will be using it for, why we think it is better than other techniques and its disadvantages.

100 lb. Rig: Your 100-200 lb. rig should be a 50W Shimano or Penn 2 speed reel. The backing should be 135 lb. spectra and you should fill it almost full (approx. 900 yds.). Leaving only enough space for a 100lb. or 200 lb. mono top shot that is the length of the distance you can cast the rig. You can buy top shots made up that already have a loop on one end or we can easily make them up on board the boat. We fasten the top shot to the spectra with a loop to loop or use our own spectra to mono splice that has 100% strength. Just bring you top shot material and we will show you these methods on the boat. The hook or in case of a squid rig the wire leader will be attached to 200 lb. mono top shot, with crimps you normally use for mono. If you choose to use a 100 lb. top shot you will tie it to a 3 ft. 200 lb. mono leader. If your top shot gets damaged, you won't necessarily replace it. You might just take a few feet off and re-crimp or re-tie.

The uses for this rig will be fly lining salamis, caballitos, greenies, flying fish, etc. It will also be your big bait kite rig for salamis, flyers and squid. And last this will be your chunk rig. You will need hooks (8/0-9/0 Mustad 7691's) with swivels on then for this rig so your line doesn't get spun up for 200 lb. top shots. For 100 lb. top shots you will use 3 ft. 200 lb. mono leaders with a swivel.

We are having you switch to mostly 135 lb. Spectra with a short top shot of mono so your live bait will swim more freely, without the drag of 200 yards of mono holding them back you will get bit a lot better. When we are using the smaller kite baits or there is a lack of wind, you will be able to get your kite bait out into the bite zone due to less line drag. In the chunk line you should be able to let your chunk drift more freely and stay in line when the boat is swinging. And you won't be getting spooled with 900 yards of Spectra.

80 lb. Rig: Your 80 lb. rig should be a Shimano or Penn 50 size 2 speed reel, with 135 lb. Spectra filled )approx. 675 yds.) to leave enough room for a casting length top shot of 80 lb. mono. This rig will mainly be used for fly lining smaller baits such as sardines caballitos and greenies. You will be tying your hook on straight to the mono. You may choose in this case to use a circle hook instead of a J hook in hopes of hooking the fish in the corner of the mouth. Whenever using live bait, it is always key to let your bait swim freely as possible. Only having a casting length of mono on this rig is going to greatly increase your hook up ratio. And with 675 yards of Spectra you shouldn't get spooled on this rig with the proper drag setting.

60 lb. Rig: Your 60 lb. rig should be a Shimano TLD 30 with 135 lb. Spectra filled (approx. 425 yds.). Leave enough room for a casting length top shot of 60 lb. mono. This will be your light line fly lining rig. You won't use a smaller or light line than this. Mostly you will fish sardines with this rig and may want to use a circle hook. Your chance of getting spooled on this rig is approx. 30% on a fish over 200 lbs. The 425 yards of Spectra is the same amount of line a 50W with 100 lb. mono holds. Not to worry though, we always have three backups ready at all time.

We have already mentioned most of the advantages. The only one left I can think of is the fact you won't ever have to change the Spectra and you will save in the long run by only putting a few feet of mono on rather than hundreds of yards of mono each time you change your top shot.

One of the big disadvantages is the tangle you will get. It can be quite the mess. Hopefully the fact that we only have 10-16 anglers on our 16 day trips will off set it. We really don't want you using short 3 foot leaders tied straight to Spectra. One, there will be even more tangles. And two, without any mono there is no strength. This will be tougher on you fighting your fish and you will more hooks on long battles.

The yardage indicated above is what a professional with a line-winding machine can put on. Make sure it goes on tight and at small angles when moving back and forth across the spool. When fishing you will have to take great care to insure you wind it on level.

One last thing in regards to wahoo fishing. One rig that isn't very common in most anglers arsenal is a Trinidad or Calcutta with 20 lb. test mono and a 27 lb. wire leader for finess wahoo fishing on the anchor. We have seen anglers catch as many as a dozen wahoo in a trip when fishing is slow using this rig.

Call me if you have any questions, Thanks and see you on the boat, Tommy Rothery.

In the following we have complied a list of the type of gear and tackle most commonly brought on a 14-18 day trips. It is by not means a complete list and some people may even consider it to be more than needed. Our main goal is to help our passengers be as prepared as possible for their trip aboard the Polaris Supreme.

Personal Gear:

Duffel Bags: Instead of hard luggage use duffel bags. It is more convenient for storage.
Pants: Bring 1 change per day. Light material is preferred so they dry quickly.
Shirts: Bring 1 change per day. If you are sun sensitive - long sleeves would be in order. Light fabric for quick drying and coolness in hotter weather.
Socks: Definitely bring a pair for every day, plus a few extra pairs.
Shorts: For those hot sultry days to sunbathe and keep cool.
Jacket and Sweatshirt: For those cold night fishing bait.
Sneakers: Bring two pairs so will always have a dry pair. A good arch support helps keep your feet from getting sore.
Rubber Boots: Make sure they are soft rubber and have a good arch support.
Sandals: For hotter days down south.
Hats: Straw or the type with the flaps down the back are preferred in hotter weather. Otherwise a baseball caps are fine
Light Rain Gear: Very seldom used but appreciated when needed.
Sun Glasses: polarized to cut the glare and help see into the water, with straps to prevent lose over the side.
Sunscreen: Sweat-proof, water-proof, broad spectrum. SPF 15 or higher.
Toiletries: Bath towels, shampoo, cream rinse, soap, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Tools: Dikes, duck bill pliers, holder, and belt. Hook sharpener.
Rod Belts: Light leather type is fine for smaller fish. But you have to have the heavy aluminum type with a gimbal bar
Harness: Should be the type that fit around your butt that you can sit it. A kidney belt that rides low on your back is ok.
Knee Pads: Come in handy when fighting large tuna.
Rubber gloves: For handling your fish at the end of the trip.
Camera and Film: For a vivid memory of your trip. Video recorders are often brought on trips as well. Our TV system is set up so you can play it back at the end of the day.
Entertainment: During travel time it's nice to have books and magazines to read. You can also bring VHS tapes and Walkman cassette players.
Writing Material: Notebook, stationary, pens and pencils for making notes on what to bring next trip or keeping a log of the trip.
Passport: Only a passport is acceptable to Mexican Naval officials on Socorro, Clarion Island and Mexican Naval vessels for proof of citizenship.
Cocktail Mixes: We carry hard liquor sea stores on board but no mixes or cigarettes. Remember our indoor areas are non-smoking.
Seasick Medicine: Check with your doctor for preferred type. (scopolamine, bonamine, merrizine, wristbands, etc.)

Rods & Reels:


	20-30 lb. live bait outfit (1)
	40 lb. live bait/jig outfit (1)
	50 lb. live bait outfit (1)
	60 lb. live bait outfit (1)
	80 lb. trolling outfit (1)
	80 lb. live bait (1)
	100 lb. live bait (1)

There are several brands of quality line available for the anglers, we recommend P-Line.

Terminal Tackle:

Hooks - Eagle Claw, laser sharp. L118Mag - bronze finish.
36 ea. - 1, 2, 1/0, 2/0, 4/0,
60 ea. 6/0 and 9/0
Mustad 7691 Big Game
60 ea. 7/0, & 8/0
30 ea. 9/0
Line - The most common line size where extra is needed is 80 lb. and 100 lb. Make sure you bring extra bulk line. If you need to re-fill you can purchase line on board.
Mono Leader Material - 200 yd. of 200 lb., 100 yd. of 150 mono
Mono Sleeves - 150 ea. 150 lb. mono, 250 ea. for 200 lb. mono
One pair of crimping pliers for mono. Mono and wire crimping pliers are different.
Wire - 30 foot spool of 40 lb. Sevenstrand (2)
30 foot spool of 60 lb. Sevenstrand (3)
30 foot spool of 90 lb. Sevenstrand (1)
30 foot spool of 175 lb. Duratest 49 strand (2)
30 foot spool of 400 lb. Duratest 49 strand (1)
All stainless steel wire is UNCOATED (no plastic coating)
Wire Sleeves - 400 ea. A-2, 100 ea. A-3, 100 ea. A-6, 50 ea. A-8
All Sevenstrand Sleeves - One wire crimping pliers
Rings - Heavy duty welded wire type
50 ea. #5 or small,
50 ea. #7 or medium,
100 ea. # 9 or large
Swivels - 24 ea. # 7 ball bearing type
Sinkers - Split-shot 24 ea. - 1/4 oz. & 3/8 oz.
Torpedo 24 ea. 6 oz., 8 oz., & 12 oz.,
Casting Lures -
24 total small heavies assorted chrome, bronze purple anodized, etc., with forged single hooks.
"Bombs" 12 total. When deciding on lures it is sometimes best to wait and consult your tackle store prior to leaving on your trip. There may be some hot new jig out.
Trolling Lures -
2 to 4 Bonita Plugs or Flashdancers Black/Orange favored color.
2 16 oz. Jet Head Lures
1 Marlin jig
3 ea. 10/0 forged single hook.
We have trolling rods set-up for all passengers to use when it is their turn to troll.
Squid catchers - 2 total (green or white)
Mackerel Catchers -12 ea. 4 fly Yo-Zuri or Habatsu
12 ea. 2 or 3 large fly Yo-Zuri
Rubber Bands 100 thin type for break away sinkers rigs at night.
Tackle Box - Wood or Plastic to store your tackle. Make sure to bring a small plastic one for the skiff.