First tog of 2018 (Feb 24 at CBBT)

[ComeOnFish]

The water temp readings of the NOAA buoys at CBBT, Kipto and the Ocean near the mouth of Chesapeake Bay indicated that it was about the time for togging.
So I fished first time since Jan 20th when I got skunked in 39 F water at CBBT.
I caught 6 tautog at 13", 14", 15", 15", 19" and 20".

Video Fishing Log:

Thanks
Joe

[Slobber Bob]

Way to break the ice!

I'm curious why you use a hi-lo rig this time of year? Do you ever get any tog doubles using a hi-lo rig?

When I first started tog fishing I used a hi-lo, but never got any doubles using it. To me the second hook just seemed like one more thing to snag the structure with and I went through bait faster. Now I only ever use a single hook.

[ComeOnFish]

Way to break the ice!

I'm curious why you use a hi-lo rig this time of year? Do you ever get any tog doubles using a hi-lo rig?

When I first started tog fishing I used a hi-lo, but never got any doubles using it. To me the second hook just seemed like one more thing to snag the structure with and I went through bait faster. Now I only ever use a single hook.

Bob,
I used the hi-lo rig only when I am desperate or where snagging isn’t expected.
I definitely don’t attempt to use double hooks in OC inlet and at CHSP unless I am very desparate. 70% of the bridge pylon at CBBT is safe for double hooks because the underwater structures are few feet away from the pylons.
Because of the additional bait on the rig, I use heavier sinker and I use it during the mild current.

When using two baits, I have one more chance for setting the hook. And, also I know the preferable distance from the sinker to the bait. Last week I hooked 5 on the top baits, while hooked only one on the bottom bait. Once I know the preferable distance, I ususallyremove one hook that doesn’t produce.

So, I make my rig with two loops for two hooks. But I may use only one hook on the top or bottom once I locate the fish.
At CBBT, the hi-lo rig made a big difference to me.

Joe