Hook Size for Halibut Setup?

keep it in gear (clicker off) be patient, let the rod load up. Thats how I do it! works for me.

Thanks!

Any thoughts on leaving the reel in gear vs freespool w/clicker? Missed a two suspected halibut takedowns last weekend w/reel out of gear but clicker engaged. Bait totally mauled, but fish somehow not hooked even though treble stinger in use. Deep  slash marks in the bait (live mini mackerels)

Depends.

Small baits, say 5" or smaller, or squid, keep it in gear and swing away.

Larger baits, I use a clicker and the minimum amount of drag, when using a level drag, and feed it.  Some reels, like Penn 500, will hold with just the clicker.  Larger baits, I feed them for a 5-10 count.  Most of the time you can feel when the fish pauses, at this time I believe they are re-adjusting the bait to swallow it.  Wait for the pause, then set the  hook.

-Allen

-Allen