How to Catch Monkfish
- 1). Take your boat out onto the water. Look for shipwreck sites because this is where monkfish like to feed. Sonar equipment can help you to see what is on the floor. Boat charters and fishing guides can also help you to locate wreck sites. If there aren't any wreck sites, monkfish will migrate up to 25 miles out. They normally aren't found any farther out than that.
- 2). Bait your fishing pole. Skate bait is normally used for monkfish, but you can also use scallops or other larger baits.
- 3). Drop your line. Keep in mind that the ocean floor is typically 120 feet or more depending on where you are. The monkfish weigh anywhere from 25 to 50 pounds so use a heavy line on your pole.
- 4). Drag your line on the bottom. Monkfish remain half hidden in the sand on the ocean floor; as you drag your bait, the monkfish will take it. When you feel the tug on your line, give a firm jerk to set your hook.
- 5). Reel in your monkfish. The monkfish doesn't put up much of a fight, so don't get discouraged if it feels like you are pulling up a heavy boot. Use your fishing net to get your monkfish into the boat and remove the hook.
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