Question about using eels?

[Mike G.]

I had a question about using eels off the beach or inlets. Can I use them and how would I go about it? I bought the plastic eel lures to give them a shot. I dont do much boat fishing but I hear people have a lot of sucess with them. Any input would be helpful. Thanks.

[Big Rigger]

Mike I've used eels from the beach with pretty good sucess, my largest fish from the beach was on an eel. Use a fishfinder rig BUT you'll have to check it often because the eel will tangle itself around the leader. I've also seen where people cast them similar to working a plug using a very slow retrieve almost inching them across the bottom. I've never tried this, because i like to throw bait and relax. Hope this helps.

[2dogs]

I have used them casting out and a slow retrieve. The retrieve keeps the eels from digging into the sand and balling up on your line. All the jetty jockies use them in that fashion. You need to be ready to open the bail/free spool when you get a pickup. Let them run some then lock up. Circle hooks are the bomb with eels.