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The right spot
Look for shallow salt water, harbour entrances, dykes, current areas and edges where small fish congregate. The tassergal often hunts from ambush close to shore, following shoals of sardines, mullet, garfish or barnacles.
The best time is often in the early morning, or when forage activity rises to the surface.
The right equipment
A powerful rod for light to medium-powerful casting is all you need, but you'll need something nervous to move fast and strike cleanly. As for the line, choose a suitable braid and a sturdy steel or fluorocarbon anti-cut leader, as cuts are frequent.
Bring along a pair of long-nosed pliers and a landing net, because fish defend themselves violently, and releases are best done with handling equipment.
Decoys that work
For your first fish, stickbaits, poppers, flappers and small surface swimmers are often the best choices. If the fish are rising well, stay in topwater; if they follow without attacking, switch to a jerkbait or minnow cast far out and brought in fast.
The animation must be fast and dynamic, with few stops, as the tassergal likes strong signals and panicked prey.
Shoeing and fighting
Don't delay in striking! As soon as the attack is clear, press hard, as the tassergal can strike in two stages and then jump back to the bait. Once you've hooked him, keep the tension constant, follow his rushes and avoid letting him jump uncontrollably.
The fight is short but explosive, so stay focused until you stall or dry out.
A simple plan to get you started
- Choose a hunting spot or an active border.
- Attach a stickbait or popper with solid leader.
- Throw far, recover quickly, then add a few short pauses.
- At the slightest hint of bubbling, shoe hard.
- Handle the fish quickly and release it cleanly if you don't want to keep it.
