There is a lot of lee way as far as sizes of the baits go. Generally the 4" baits get bit better but when you have a lot of big smelt or bigger brown baits running around you may want to step up to a 5" or 7." As far as leadheads I like using Fischco 1/2 oz or 3/4 oz. leadheads, you definitely don't need any heavier than either one of these, but you do need the correct size hook to match the bait you are throwing. All the jig head colors work, but I have found red to be the most effective, matched with almost any color plastic. I have also done really well with chartreuse and yellow heads. I think the success of these heads has something to do with the stark color contrast, between them and the baits.

As far as gear goes, I prefer bait casting reels with 8' to 9' graphite rods. You can get away with the spinning gear when fishing some pylons and the bait dock but the second you get to the wall put the toys away. When fishing the wall I would recommend a minimum of 15# line and often times 20# and 25#. When it comes to the rods I like a fast taper rod with a lot of power, and the length is key. When you set the hook you need to show that fish who is boss; and have him 10 ft away from his hole before he knows what happened. If you don't pull him out he'll pull you in. Breakwall fish are mean and they know every nook and cranny, you are in their home court so you need every advantage. Getting a jump on them can mean the difference from a trophy fish and 10 ft of frayed line with nothing on the other end.

The approach is fairly simple; David Fong's article "Calico Combat" outlines this style of fishing perfectly. You want to use the "slicing the pie" method when approaching the structure. Cast to the corners of the docks and work it under them. Try a few casts on the same pylon or dock corner at different angles. Make sure when fishing pylons and docks that you fish close to the bottom. Often times, slowly dragging a bait in the substrate is the best way to trigger strikes. Use the same technique at the wall, especially when on the corners. When fishing the middle part of the wall cast directly at it. Sometimes the best thing you can do is get the bait to land on a rock, then pull it off and start the retrieve. Also a technique called "bouncing" works well, but can get rather expensive. What you do is throw the bait up against the wall and retrieve it a few feet. Then stop, with the reel in gear let it settle down to the next rock level. Repeat this till you are off the rocks and then try it again. It is very important to fish this technique with the reel in gear, you are only letting the bait sink a few feet and you must be prepared for high energy strikes. The easy way to visualize this style of fishing is like walking down a flight of stairs.

Breakwaters are a great places to fish and often times overlooked. They are a great place, do to a quick excursion, or a place to get some fishing in, when other wise Mother Nature wouldn't allow it. Be sure to practice extreme prudence and caution when fishing the wall. Especially on rough days, wave surge can mean disaster. If you are fishing with a trolling motor I recommend leaving your gas motor running, just in case you need to get out of a tight spot. Give these harbors a try, it may surprise you what you can catch. Just remember to turn the handle, you can watch your rod bend later. Please keep in mind that these are home guard fish, if you want to keep enjoying these local treasures practice catch and release. Good Fishing.

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