Trolling Secrets for San Francisco Bay Halibut

Captain Steve Gutierrez is a Mack's Lure Pro Angler and Professional Guide

These beautiful San Francisco Bay halibut were caught using Sling Blades and Wiggle Hoochies Check out Deadliest Kast Fishing at www.deadliestkastfishing.com.

Tactical Advantage: Sling Blade and Wiggle Hoochies

Steve Gutierrez is a seasoned captain and the face behind Deadliest Kast Sport Fishing, based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With decades of experience, Steve has been fishing Northern California waters since he was five years old. He specializes in targeting species like halibut, striped bass, sturgeon, and sharks, particularly in the South Bay. Known for his engaging fishing trips, he often records action-packed moments for his clients to relive through videos.

Steve's Halibut Trolling Techniques

Captain Steve is an expert in trolling for halibut, employing innovative techniques and gear to maximize success. One of his preferred setups involves using the Sling Blade dodger and Wiggle Hoochie from Mack’s Lure's Shasta Tackle line.

The Sling Blade is a slim-profile dodger designed for high-speed trolling (1.7–2.5 mph). It creates a jerking and dancing action that attracts fish while minimizing drag. Notably, it stops dodging upon a strike, allowing anglers to feel the fish fight more effectively.

The Wiggle Hoochie, paired with the Sling Blade, mimics natural bait movement to entice halibut. This combination is particularly effective when trolling frozen herring or anchovies (often referred to as “popsicles”) in shallow waters with clear visibility—conditions preferred by halibut as sight feeders.

Steve’s expertise in adapting these tools to local conditions has made him a go-to guide for anglers seeking halibut in the San Francisco Bay. Through his innovative techniques and deep knowledge of local waters, Captain Steve Gutierrez continues to offer thrilling fishing experiences for enthusiasts of all skill levels.