In recent years, a variety of waterproof digital camera’s have entered the marketplace.  They have become standard gear for anglers.  My first waterproof digital camera stopped working while on dry land. ;-(.  I am now using a FUJIFILM XP Finepix camera.  The camera is water, shock, dust, and freeze proof.  Hence, it’s perfect for fishing year round in a variety of conditions. 🙂

The camera has several cool modes.  While field testing the camera earlier this year on Cuttyhunk Island, I  put the camera in night time mode and took a picture.  The night was so dark, I could not see my reel until the flash fired.

The  FUJIFILM Finepix XP Camera is rugged and takes great pictures under a variety of conditions.  The camera is a great value and has a permanent home on my fishing belt.

Using light as an attractant to catch fish is not a novel idea.  There are several light-based fishing products available.  But, the most innovative product that I have seen is esca.

One of the fascinating things about esca is it’s simplicity.  No moving parts.  No power source.  No assembly required.  So how does it work?

The esca is activated via sodium chloride ions in sea water.  To prove this to my self, I conducted a simple experiment.  I filled a bowl with water; added some salt; and stirred until all the salt was dissolved (i.e. ionized).  I placed the esca in the bowl.

After a “few” seconds, there was light!

After I convinced my self that a device without any moving parts or a power source can actually emit light at a predetermined frequency, I started thinking about how to rig the esca without interfering with the action of my lures.

For vertical jigging rigs, I attach the Esca to the split ring holding the hook using a Wolverine split rings.

This rig works well.  No impact to the lure’s jigging action.  When you are jigging for bottom dwellers in 200+ feet of water, having an esca on your jig puts the fish at a disadvantage.  😉

For plugs, I secure the esca to two fisher finder plastic sliders via Wolverine split rings.

I tested this rig with plugs that work the entire water column.  The presence of the esca did not impact casting distance or the plug’s action.

But, I must say that I am very biased to swimmers with this rig.

Whether you are jigging or plugging, the key thing to keep in mind is that fish do not follow any rules.  Sound and scent techniques are widely exploited by anglers world wide.  The use of light as an attactant has just reached a whole new level, complements of esca.  Think outside the fish bowl.  Experiment with light during your next fishing trip.

Sodium chloride (NaCL) is corrosive.  Selecting a pair of fishconomic pliers can be a challenge. But, finding a pliers sheath for a two inch surf belt is a greater challenge! That is until I discovered the AquaSkinz Elite Hunter Pro Series Pliers Sheath.

The features that sold me are:

1. The sodium chloride impervious and non-absorbant material.

2. Super strong stitching and construction.

3. Thick stainless steel loop to secure a  lanyard.

Pliers may come and go.  But, my AquaSkinz Elite Hunter Pro Series pliers sheath is here to stay! 😉

The sides of the cargo bag have specialized pockets.

I was fishing with my father in law (F.I.L.) on Drake’s Island several years back when he lost a fish of a lifetime because his hook snapped.  Yes.  Snapped!  It was clearly my fault.

Since this heart-breaking experience, I have been searching for a J-style hook that would exceed his expectations.  What I quickly learned is that there are nearly countless J-style hooks on the market.  But, my search has finally come to an end with the Eagle Claw “481BK” hook:

The features that sold my F.I.L. are:

1. The bait holder bars on the shank.
2. The lazed sharp off-set point
3. The forged medium wire.
4. Made In USA.

I ordered him a 20 pack from Terminal Tackle Co. in New York.  They arrive at my door is just a few days.  Now that’s service!