If you’re looking to catch yellowtail, you’ll need a fishing rod that’s up to the task. Yellowtail are a popular game fish found in the waters off the coast of California and Mexico. They are known for their hard fighting and high-speed runs, which means you’ll need a rod that can handle the pressure.
I’ll show you real quick what is a good all-around setup and then we’ll get to the options.
The first is the length of the rod. A longer rod will allow you to cast further, but it may not be as easy to handle as a shorter rod. That’s why if you’re boat fishing I would recommend having two rods (one short, one long), if possible. Around 8′-9′ feet is the best length.
As with any saltwater fish, yellowtails also vary in size, so there isn’t a fixed setup to have. You don’t need the most sensitive rod, neither the stiffest. A moderate to fast action, and medium or medium-heavy power for larger tails is the best all-around setup.
Now that you know what setup works best, let’s get into the options.
I’ll tell you one more thing. You do NOT need to set hooks fast or even try to do so. The high-speed nature of yellowtail fishing just makes setting the hook more of a distraction from the fish fight.
Yellowtail have a max speed of around 50 miles per hour. The may not feed at that speed, but they’re not going to be slow anyway. This, combined with a sharp treble hook already makes sure the fish is well hooked.
1) Shimano Exage
The first option on the list is the mighty Exage, probably the best mid-range rod you can buy.
Build Quality and Materials
The Shimano Exage rods are built with a high-modulus graphite blank, which provides a good balance of strength and sensitivity. The high-modulus graphite ensures that the rod is lightweight, which is crucial for long days of casting or jigging. The lightweight nature of the rod also helps in detecting bites, which can be the difference between landing a fish and missing it.
These rods are equipped with high-quality components, including durable Fuji® aluminum oxide guides, which are designed to handle the stress of braided lines often used in yellowtail fishing.
The rod also features a comfortable split grip handle with high-density EVA foam for a firm and comfortable grip during long battles with fish. The EVA foam is not only durable but it can withstand exposure to saltwater and sun without breaking down quickly.
The reel seat on the Shimano Exage is designed to be robust and to keep the reel securely in place. This is critical when fighting yellowtail because a loose reel can lead to a loss of control and potentially the loss of the fish. Shimano typically uses quality reel seats that are corrosion-resistant, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Shimano Exage rod is designed to deliver a responsive and balanced feel. When jigging or casting for yellowtail, the rod’s responsiveness allows you to work lures effectively and feel the action of the lure as it moves through the water.
The balance of the rod is also important, especially when you need to hold and work the rod for extended periods. The Exage’s lightweight design reduces fatigue, which can be a significant advantage during a long day of fishing.
Versatility
While specifically looking at yellowtail fishing, it’s worth mentioning that the Shimano Exage rod series is versatile enough to be used for various other species as well. You can use these rods for inshore species like snapper, sea bass, and flounder, or for other offshore species if the rod’s power and action match the fishing requirements.
Price Point
Shimano is known for producing quality gear at different price points, and the Exage series is considered a mid-range offering. The price of the Exage rods provides good value for the quality and performance they deliver, making them accessible to a wide range of anglers, from beginners to more experienced fishers.
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2) Shimano Tiralejo
The Shimano Tiralejo series of surf rods is designed with long-distance casting and surf fishing in mind. While these rods are not specifically targeted for yellowtail fishing, which often involves boat-based tactics like jigging or live bait fishing, they can still be used for targeting coastal yellowtail from the shore or piers where casting distance is crucial.
Build Quality and Materials
Shimano Tiralejo rods are constructed using their proprietary C4S-HM (High Modulus) blank technology. This technology involves a carbon wrap process that creates a strong and responsive blank with increased sensitivity. The material and construction allow for a lightweight rod that doesn’t compromise on power, which is essential when fighting strong fish like yellowtail.
Components
The Tiralejo rods are outfitted with quality Fuji K-Series tangle-free guides with Alconite inserts. These guides are designed to work well with braided lines, which are commonly used in both surf fishing and yellowtail fishing for their strength and durability. The guide design helps reduce wind knots and line tangles, which can be a common issue when casting in the surf.
The rods also feature a custom reel seat, designed by Shimano to provide a secure and comfortable connection between the rod and reel. This is important for maintaining control during the fight with a yellowtail.
Performance
The Shimano Tiralejo rods have been engineered to optimize casting performance, which is crucial when aiming for distance in surf fishing scenarios. The fast action and stiff backbone allow for powerful casts, and the quality of the blank ensures that the energy from the cast is efficiently transferred. This can be particularly useful when trying to reach yellowtail that are feeding at a distance from shore.
When it comes to sensitivity, the high modulus carbon construction of the Tiralejo allows for excellent bite detection, even at long range. It’s not that important for yellowtail, but I assume you’re going to use these rods for other fish too.
During the fight, the power of the Tiralejo rods comes into play, providing enough strength to handle the strong runs and aggressive fighting style of yellowtail. The length of the rod also aids in keeping the line above the breaking surf, which can help prevent line abrasions and break-offs.
Versatility
While the Shimano Tiralejo is designed primarily for surf fishing, its characteristics make it a versatile rod that can be used for various fishing techniques and species. For yellowtail fishing, it can be particularly effective when casting jigs or bait from jetties, piers, or the beach. However, it may not be the first choice for boat-based yellowtail fishing techniques that require a shorter and more maneuverable rod.
Price Point
The Shimano Tiralejo series is positioned as a premium surf rod line, and its price reflects the high-quality materials and technology used in its construction. It is an investment for serious surf anglers who are looking for top-notch performance and durability in challenging conditions.
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3) Penn Carnage III
The Penn Carnage III is a line of rods designed to be lightweight and versatile while offering the strength and power necessary to handle large game fish, including yellowtail. This series of rods is built to accommodate modern fishing techniques and to work well with both braided and monofilament lines.
Build Quality and Materials
Penn Carnage III rods are constructed with SLS3 blank technology, which involves using a proprietary carbon fiber layout to create thin yet strong and durable blanks. This technology allows the rods to maintain sensitivity without sacrificing the power needed to fight large fish like yellowtail.
Components
These rods are equipped with high-quality components to ensure durability and performance. They often feature Fuji K guides with Alconite inserts, which are designed to handle the stress of braided lines and minimize line wear. The reel seats are also made from high-quality materials, ensuring that the reel stays securely attached to the rod during the intense battles with strong fish.
Ergonomics
Penn Carnage III rods are designed with ergonomics in mind. They usually have EVA or rubber shrink tube grips that provide a comfortable and secure hold, even when wet. This is crucial during long fights with yellowtail, which can be quite exhausting. The grip design also helps to reduce hand fatigue and allows for better rod control.
Performance
When used for yellowtail fishing, the Penn Carnage III rods perform admirably. They are capable of delivering long and accurate casts, which is especially beneficial when trying to reach schooling yellowtail or when casting to boiling fish from a boat.
During the fight, the strength of the Carnage III comes into play. The power of the rod helps to keep control over the fish, allowing you to apply pressure and steer the yellowtail away from structure or other obstacles. The progressive action of the rod also acts as a shock absorber for the sudden runs and aggressive head shakes that yellowtail are known for, reducing the likelihood of line breaks or hook pulls.
Versatility
The Carnage III series is built to handle a variety of fishing techniques, which is a significant advantage for yellowtail fishing. Whether you are live bait fishing, jigging, or throwing surface iron, there’s likely a Carnage III model that fits the bill. This versatility makes it a suitable rod for anglers who prefer to have a single rod that can handle multiple tactics.
Price Point
Penn Carnage III rods are positioned in the mid to high price range, reflecting their quality and the advanced technology used in their construction. They are intended for serious anglers who are looking for a high-performance rod that can handle the demands of targeting large game fish like yellowtail.
4) Seeker Ulua
The Seeker Ulua is a series of fishing rods that has gained a strong reputation, especially among West Coast anglers who target large game fish from the shore, such as the ulua (giant trevally) in Hawaii, for which the rod is named. While not specifically designed for yellowtail fishing, the Seeker Ulua rods possess characteristics that can make them suitable for this purpose, particularly when fishing from piers, jetties, or the surf.
Build Quality and Materials
Seeker Ulua rods are known for their robust construction. They are typically built with high-quality composite materials, combining fiberglass and graphite to achieve a balance between strength and sensitivity. This blend allows the rods to have the power needed to cast heavy baits or lures and fight large, powerful fish like yellowtail, while still maintaining a little sensitivity for smaller fish.
Seeker Ulua rods are equipped with high-quality components that are designed to withstand harsh saltwater environments. The guides are usually made from durable materials like stainless steel with ceramic inserts to minimize line wear, especially when using braided lines. The reel seats are heavy-duty, ensuring that the reel stays securely fastened under the stress of a big fish.
Ergonomics
The handles on Seeker Ulua rods are designed for comfort and efficiency during long fishing sessions. They typically feature a longer foregrip and a rear grip, which are made from materials such as hypalon or cork for a comfortable and secure grip. The extra length in the foregrip allows for better two-handed casting, which is essential when trying to achieve maximum casting distance.
The longer rear grip also aids in leverage when fighting a fish, allowing you to apply more pressure and control during the battle. This is particularly useful when trying to keep a large yellowtail away from structure or when lifting the fish during the final stages of the fight.
Performance
The performance of Seeker Ulua rods in yellowtail fishing scenarios can be quite impressive. The rods are designed to cast heavy lures or bait with precision and ease, which is critical when targeting fish from the shore. The power and action provide the strength needed to fight yellowtail effectively.
Despite their power, Seeker Ulua rods also allow for a degree of finesse, offering sensitivity to detect subtle bites. This is important when yellowtail are cautious or when fishing with lighter baits for smaller fish.
Versatility
While the Seeker Ulua series is designed with big game shore fishing in mind, these rods are versatile enough to be used in various other fishing applications where power and casting distance are needed. They can handle different fishing techniques, including live bait fishing, heavy lure casting, and even some light trolling if the situation calls for it.
Seeker Ulua rods are generally considered premium fishing rods, and their price reflects the quality and performance they deliver. They are an investment for serious shore-based anglers who require a rod that can handle the rigors of big game fishing and provide years of reliable service.
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5) Daiwa Saltiga Jigging Rod
The Daiwa Saltiga G Jigging Rod series is part of Daiwa’s top-tier range of rods, designed for serious offshore anglers targeting game fish such as yellowtail. These rods are engineered to handle the demanding conditions of deep-sea jigging and provide the right blend of power and sensitivity needed for such applications.
Build Quality and Materials
Daiwa Saltiga G Jigging Rods are constructed using Daiwa’s exclusive GlaTech technology. GlaTech incorporates uni-directional fiberglass layers on the outside of the rod blank, which adds power and resilience without significantly increasing weight. This technology ensures that the rods are strong enough to handle the stresses of jigging and fighting large fish while maintaining a slim profile and a lighter overall feel.
The Saltiga G rods are equipped with high-quality Fuji or Daiwa’s proprietary reel seats, ensuring that reels stay firmly attached during the intense pressure of a fight. The guides are Fuji Hardloy, which are durable and designed to withstand the abrasion of braided lines, which are commonly used in jigging for their no-stretch properties and sensitivity.
Ergonomics
Comfort is an important aspect of jigging rods, as you’ll often engage in repetitive motions and fight strong fish. Daiwa Saltiga G Jigging Rods feature high-density EVA foam grips which provide a secure and comfortable hold. EVA is known for its ability to resist the elements, including UV rays and saltwater, ensuring that the grips will last through tough conditions and extended use.
The ergonomic design of the grips helps to reduce fatigue, allowing you to jig for longer periods without discomfort. Additionally, the foregrip is designed to be comfortable when palming the reel during the retrieve, which is a common technique in jigging.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Daiwa Saltiga G Jigging Rods offer a balance of power and sensitivity. The fast action contributes to a responsive feel, allowing for precise jig movements and immediate feedback when a fish bites. The GlaTech construction provides the lifting power necessary to control and hoist yellowtail, especially when they dive deep or run hard.
These rods are also designed to perform well with both high-speed and slow-pitch jigging techniques, giving you the versatility to adapt to different conditions and preferences of yellowtail on any given day.
Versatility
Though specifically designed for jigging, the Saltiga G series can be versatile enough to handle other fishing techniques that require similar rod attributes, such as live bait or bottom fishing. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to an angler’s arsenal, especially when targeting a variety of species.
Price Point
The Daiwa Saltiga G Jigging Rods are positioned in the higher end of the market, reflecting their quality and the advanced technology used in their construction. They are an investment for dedicated anglers seeking a rod that can endure the rigors of deep-sea jigging and provide exceptional performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rod and reel setup for catching yellowtail?
The best rod and reel setup for catching yellowtail depends on the fishing technique you plan to use. For surface iron fishing, a long rod between 9 to 10 feet is ideal to give you casting distance. However, these longer rods sacrifice leverage. For this reason, an 8-foot rod is preferred by some anglers. A good model is the Cousins CJB 80M-CT matched with a Penn Fathom 25N loaded with 65-pound braid.
What size reel should I use for yellowtail fishing?
The size of the reel you should use for yellowtail fishing depends on the fishing technique you plan to use. For surface iron fishing, a reel with a line capacity of 300 yards of 50-pound braid is recommended. A Penn Fathom 25N is a good option. For live bait fishing, a reel with a line capacity of 300 yards of 40-pound braid is ideal. A Shimano Saragosa 8000 is a good choice.
What pound test line should I use for yellowtail fishing?
The pound test line you should use for yellowtail fishing depends on the fishing technique you plan to use. For surface iron fishing, a 50-pound braid line is recommended. For live bait fishing, a 40-pound braid line is ideal.
What type of lure is best for catching yellowtail?
The type of lure that is best for catching yellowtail depends on the fishing technique you plan to use. For surface iron fishing, a heavy iron jig with a treble hook is recommended. For live bait fishing, a hook with a sliding sinker rig is ideal.
Can I use a spinning reel for yellowtail fishing?
Yes, you can use a spinning reel for yellowtail fishing. However, it is not recommended for surface iron fishing as it requires a lot of power to cast and retrieve the iron jig. A spinning reel is more suitable for live bait fishing.
What is the recommended drag setting for yellowtail fishing?
The recommended drag setting for yellowtail fishing is around 20 to 25 pounds. This is enough to tire out the fish without breaking the line. However, the drag setting can vary depending on the fishing technique and the size of the yellowtail you are targeting.
