How does the skill level of the angler affect the success rate of live baits versus artificial lures for striped marlin

The skill level of the angler plays a significant role in the success rate of using live baits versus artificial lures for striped marlin. Here’s how it affects each method:

Live Bait Fishing

Lower Skill Requirement:

• Live bait fishing generally requires less skill and experience, making it more accessible to novice anglers[1].
• Even beginners can be quickly taught how to drop a live bait and wait for a bite[1].

Presentation Challenges:

• While easier overall, there are still some skills involved in live bait fishing for striped marlin:
  • Proper rigging of the bait
  • Executing the “dropback” technique to allow the marlin to fully take the bait before setting the hook[4]

Natural Attraction:

• Live bait’s natural movement and scent can be highly effective, even with less skilled anglers.

Artificial Lure Fishing

Higher Skill Requirement:

• Using artificial lures effectively generally requires more skill and practice[1].
• Anglers need to master techniques like:
  • Accurate casting
  • Proper lure retrieval and action
  • Reading fish behavior and adjusting presentations accordingly

Lure Selection and Presentation:

• Skilled anglers have an advantage in choosing the right lures (e.g., 6- to 10-inch skirted trolling lures in specific colors like Mean Joe Green or Petrolero)[4].
• Experienced anglers can better control the lure’s action and speed, which is crucial for enticing striped marlin[1].

Sight-Casting Technique:

• For striped marlin, sight-casting with artificial lures requires a high level of skill, especially when targeting surface-feeding fish[4].
• Experienced anglers can better read the marlin’s behavior (e.g., distinguishing between “sleepers,” “tailers,” and “feeders”) and adjust their approach accordingly[4].

Hybrid Approach

Many skilled captains and anglers use a combination of both methods to maximize success:

1. They often start by trolling with artificial lures to locate fish.
2. Once a marlin is raised or spotted, they quickly switch to live bait for a more effective presentation[4].

This approach requires skill in both lure and live bait techniques, as well as the ability to quickly transition between the two methods.

In conclusion, while live bait fishing generally has a lower skill threshold and can be effective for anglers of all levels, the most successful striped marlin anglers often combine high-level skills in both live bait and artificial lure techniques. The ability to adapt to the fish’s behavior and seamlessly switch between methods can significantly increase success rates, especially for more experienced anglers.

Citations:
[1] https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/live-bait-fishing-vs-artificial-lures/
[2] https://www.curated.com/journal/459000/when-to-use-live-bait-vs-artificial-lures
[3] https://pakula.com/index.php/2014-09-23-04-02-2/trolling-articles/increase-hookup-rates
[4] https://fishcostarica.org/2021/02/how-to-catch-striped-marlin-worlds-best-captains-chime-in/
[5] https://coastsidefishingclub.com/grey-beard-articles-catch-more-fish/marlin-and-sailfish/
[6] https://www.tomscatch.com/blog/marlin-fishing-all-you-need-to-know/
[7] https://cabofishings.com/types-of-fish-in-cabo-san-lucas/
[8] https://www.marlinmag.com/natural-bait-versus-artificial-lures-for-marlin/