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Articles by Ricky Fischel

Articles by Ricky Fischel

Explore blog posts by Ricky Fischel on the Melton Tackle blog, featuring expert fishing insights, tips, gear guides, and angler‑tested advice.
"A COMPLETE GUIDE: FLYING BALLOON DRIFT SETUP FISHING THE BALLOON RIG FOR BLUEFIN TUNA" in white text over blue water. White boat on the water hooked up to an orange balloon rig.
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A Complete Guide: Flyer Balloon Drift Setup Fishing the Balloon Rig for Bluefin Tuna

Our local Southern California bluefin fishery, specifically with the emergence of the "cow" tuna, has seen drastic changes in the way we pursue and target these big fish over the past decade. Bar none, the most thrilling methods used to target big bluefin have to be those which allow anglers to witness a visual topwater bite. Whether that be casting into foaming fish, kite fishing, trolling through a breezing school, or drifting a flying fish (flyer) with a balloon rig through the big fish zone, I would challenge you to find an angler who would disagree.

rear view of person in green shirt and dark waterproof bib holding a bent rail rod over ocean water from a skiff, large on image text "Fishing a Rail Rod From a Skiff Tricks and Tips" white and "GRUNDENS" white on bib.
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Fishing a Rail Rod From a Skiff - Tricks and Tips

As fishing techniques continue to evolve and become ever more effective, have you honed in your craft on the latest styles of fighting and landing big fish from a small boat? Over the past decade, Southern California has become the mecca for targeting trophy Pacific Bluefin Tuna. For both seasoned anglers and weekend warriors alike, catching that once-in-a-lifetime cow Bluefin Tuna has likely become a reality in recent years.