Japanese Saltwater Fishing: Seabass, Eging, and Jigging Explained

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

The Daiwa Windstorm 135F is a floating minnow, 135mm long, weighing 22.2 grams, known for its low-appeal action and casting stability with surf rods [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html].
The Evergreen Honesty 95S is a sinking minnow, cited for catching over 90% of seabass in a 10-year study (2012-2021) in urban bay areas [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html].
The Daiwa Crosscounter 125F is a rip-less minnow, 125mm long and 15.8 grams, with an average casting distance of 64.5 meters and a maximum of 65.5 meters [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html].
Eging, or squid fishing, involves specialized rods, reels, lines, and lures called "egi," with origins dating back to Japan's Edo period [https://tsurihack.com/5384].

Japanese domestic market (JDM) fishing tackle offers specialized lures and techniques for saltwater species like seabass and squid, known as "eging." For seabass, floating minnows such as the Daiwa Windstorm 135F, measuring 135mm and weighing 22.2 grams, are favored for their low-appeal action and stability in large rivers and surf conditions [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. Rip-less minnows like the Daiwa Crosscounter 125F, at 125mm and 15.8 grams, are prized for their exceptional castability, achieving an average distance of 64.5 meters and a maximum of 65.5 meters [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. In urban bay areas, the Evergreen Honesty 95S stands out, having been responsible for catching over 90% of seabass over a 10-year period (2012-2021) in one angler's extensive record of 732 total catches [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. Eging, the art of squid fishing, utilizes unique artificial lures called "egi," which have a rich history in Japan, dating back to the Edo period. These specialized lures vary significantly in size, weight, color, and type, making careful selection crucial for success.

What are the essential JDM lures for seabass fishing?

Essential JDM lures for seabass fishing often include specific floating and rip-less minnows designed for various water conditions and retrieve speeds. The Daiwa Windstorm 135F is a prime example of a floating minnow, highly effective in large rivers and surf fishing scenarios. Its design focuses on a low-appeal action, which can be particularly productive in specific conditions, such as the early spring for large seabass or during the autumn's main run. This lure's stability and consistent action make it a reliable choice for anglers targeting active fish.

Daiwa Windstorm 135F: A Floating Minnow for Versatile Conditions

The Daiwa Windstorm 135F is categorized as a floating minnow, measuring 135mm in body length and weighing 22.2 grams [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. This lure is known for its adequate casting distance, performing satisfactorily in large rivers and surf environments. However, when compared to rivals like the Z140F or Silent Assassin 140F, it might feel less impressive in terms of sheer distance. The Windstorm 135F's weight distribution makes it suitable for surf rods capable of casting up to 50 grams, offering more stable flight compared to standard ML-class seabass rods typically used in rivers. A slightly stiffer rod with more backbone is recommended to maximize its casting potential.

The action of the Windstorm 135F is generally low-appeal, meaning it doesn't create excessive commotion in the water. Despite lacking the "kickback spring" found in some newer Daiwa models, it starts swimming well and maintains its weight balance even in strong currents. Its responsive action remains consistent across a wide range of retrieve speeds, from slow to fast, with minimal variation. Even at a slow retrieve, it swims effectively, and at a dead slow pace, it still exhibits subtle action. This characteristic has made it successful in the Tone River during the early spring's large worm pattern and more recently in surf fishing when anchovies are the primary bait.

While the manufacturer's website doesn't specify its diving depth, the lure's packaging reportedly indicates a maximum depth of 40cm. However, in practical use, it can dive up to around 60cm. It's unusual for a minnow of this size with a lip to dive so shallow, making it a distinct shallow runner. This makes it ideal for night games or twilight hours in the surf, where retrieving it slowly through the waves has elicited positive reactions from seabass. Its action also makes it suitable for large worm patterns and even ayu (sweetfish) patterns. While it might be a good option for targeting large seabass due to its larger hook size, especially when their presence is known, there are many other lures for more challenging worm patterns. If aiming to avoid smaller fish during the worm pattern, using the Windstorm 135F with a chartreuse color is an option, as specific "worm colors" are virtually non-existent for this lure. It performs well in rivers, regardless of current speed, and its presence is sufficient to appeal to active seabass, making it a good choice for initial casts. The subtle action also prevents anglers from getting tired of using it continuously. Although not exceptional in terms of casting distance, it is easy to use when targeting nearby spots. For surf fishing, it excels at slow retrieves near the surface or drifting slowly in turbulent white water. Its effectiveness for flatfish, however, is considered questionable, though it could be a choice for shallow surf areas during low tide to avoid bottom contact.

The Windstorm 135F's volume is comparable to a 120mm class lure, but its length is closer to a 140mm class lure. Its distinctive small lip gives it a low-appeal action, almost like a rip-less lure. As a shallow runner, it is easy to use in wavy surf and rivers. This combination of features is quite rare in the market. Despite being considered a "halfway" lure by some—suggesting that anglers could just alternate between 120mm and 140mm lures, or use a rip-less shallow runner or a 120mm minnow with a similar diving range like the Kosuke 110F—its overall completeness as a floating minnow is highly regarded. When unsure which lure to use in large rivers or surf, its decent casting, shallow diving capability, and low-appeal action make it a strong contender. It is particularly useful for targeting large seabass during the early spring worm pattern or waiting for migratory fish in autumn. In surf fishing, it is convenient for night games and highly effective when anchovies are present. This lure is personally rated highly, though its popularity and market evaluation are less clear, raising concerns about its potential discontinuation.

Daiwa Crosscounter 125F: A Rip-less Minnow for Night Games

For night games in rivers, shallow runner minnows are considered a classic choice. While smaller lures with subtle actions are used for micro-bait patterns, and larger lures or deeper-diving options are employed for large seabass or strong currents, minnow fishing, especially with shallow runners, remains indispensable. The main advantage of using shallow runners is that seabass actively feeding near the surface tend to be more active. Targeting the surface is crucial to quickly get the lure noticed by these active fish. Surface minnows also serve as pilot lures, helping to identify active zones and playing a significant role in waiting for feeding times or migratory runs. They are essential lures for night games and should always be in the tackle box, regardless of the season.

Among the many surface lures tested, the Daiwa Crosscounter 125F quickly became a top performer soon after its release [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. This lure is remarkably straightforward to use, and the manufacturer promotes it as suitable for slow retrieves. It is a rip-less minnow, 125mm long, and weighing 15.8 grams [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. What immediately impresses is its exceptional castability, making it easy to throw. Despite its relatively light weight for a 125mm lure, it matches or even surpasses the casting distance of rivals like the Goliath 125F, Frilled Swimmer 115F, and Komomo 125 Counter. The Crosscounter 125F excels in average casting distance and ease of casting, outperforming its competitors. While manufacturer specifications state a maximum casting distance of 65.5 meters and an average of 64.5 meters, the small difference between these figures accurately reflects its consistently high castability. This lighter setup also means it can be effectively used with relatively lighter tackle.

Regarding the manufacturer's claim of "dead slow compatible" or "slow retrieve compatible," the lure's retrieve speed range is not particularly wide; fast retrieves can cause it to over-act. However, its responsiveness in the slow retrieve range is outstanding. It swims with a gentle, wavering action even when retrieved up-current, sensitively picking up current changes and disrupting its action, making it perfect for dedicated slow retrieves. It can handle medium retrieves, but its true strength lies in slow retrieves. A 7-pound fluorocarbon leader works normally, and thinner leaders pose no issues. The manufacturer states a diving depth of 20-70cm. While it might dive deeper with medium retrieves, a slow retrieve allows it to perform well at around 50cm, and a dead slow retrieve can keep it in the 20-30cm range. For more details, see Seabass Lure Review: Windstorm 135F and Crosscounter 125F.

Which seabass lures are proven performers in urban bay areas?

In urban bay areas, where fishing pressure can be high, specific seabass lures have demonstrated consistent performance over extended periods. Lures that excel in these environments often feature unique actions or retrieve characteristics that allow them to stand out among the many standard offerings. An angler who has fished for seabass for over 10 years, primarily in urban bay rivers and night games, compiled statistics on effective lures from 2012 to 2021 [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. During this decade, they caught a total of 732 seabass, with 90% of those catches attributed to just 15 specific lures. This extensive experience highlights the reliability of certain JDM lures in challenging conditions.

Evergreen Honesty 95S: The No-Action King

The Evergreen Honesty 95S is a sinking minnow that this experienced angler cites as having caught the most seabass [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. It is known as the "original no-action sinking minnow." Its short lip helps maintain a horizontal posture, and the fins on its belly seem to suppress its action. Surprisingly, it hardly moves. While it will act if retrieved quickly, the key to its success is to avoid making it act, as bites concentrate on its no-action, slow retrieve. Although it's said to handle various bait patterns, its primary use is for specific worm patterns.

In fiercely competitive major fields within urban bay areas, many anglers use standard worm pattern techniques, which can sometimes yield poor results. In these situations, the Honesty 95S shows unparalleled strength. "The Honesty exhibits unparalleled strength. Despite rises, no angler present can catch seabass. In such situations, it allows you to show off a satisfying series of consecutive catches and win alone. This is likely due to its original no-action approach," said the ameblo.jp medical-representative author (translated from Japanese). It's not an exaggeration to say that this single lure can dominate the worm pattern in crowded areas. By reducing the split ring size and using #8 hooks, it can be retrieved dead slow just below the surface, which is crucial for worm patterns. Even when worms are present, lures often get overlooked before dusk, but the Honesty 95S starts catching fish aggressively with a dead slow retrieve from evening twilight. It also seems to cause less wariness in fish, allowing for continuous catches without needing to rotate lures. Its two-hook setup also makes for quick hook removal and re-casting. However, its casting distance is mediocre, and it can be difficult to use from high fishing platforms, limiting its usable scenarios. Similar lures like the IGK have recently been released, and the angler speculates they might be similarly effective (though they haven't used them). While color is generally not a major concern for this angler, the "Mud Pink B" color of the Honesty 95S showed a particular tendency to catch more fish.

Tackle House TKLM9/11: A Versatile Rip-less Minnow

The Tackle House TKLM9/11 has also accounted for over 100 seabass catches for this angler [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. It's a rip-less minnow often used when rotating to a minnow. Its action is a high-pitch, tight wobbling roll. This historical lure is well-known for easily producing the "irregular action" often discussed by anglers. This characteristic, now becoming standard in modern lures, likely made it incredibly effective upon its initial release. In practical use with a slow retrieve, its effective depth is about 30cm below the surface. It grips the water well, positioning it as a lure similar to the Komomo that responds well to rod action. Because it firmly grips the water at the front, it swims consistently all the way to your feet, which is notable for a rip-less minnow at this depth. When it grips a large amount of water, it deviates from its straight retrieve path, creating an irregular action. Similarly, when twitched, its action is not as powerful as lures like the Hachimalu but rather a "derailed" action, like falling flower petals. Softer rod actions seem to elicit better responses. However, intentionally inducing action with aggressive rod movements has only resulted in a few catches for this angler. Most catches occur through drift fishing, simple straight retrieves, or natural irregular actions caused by currents. If the Komomo SF110 yields consistent bites, the TKLM9/11 usually does as well, and vice versa. There's an urban legend that changing hook sizes or applying urethane coating will negatively affect the TKLM's action or depth, but this angler completely refutes that.

Equipped with a magnetic weight transfer system, it casts surprisingly well for its weight and shape. However, its casting distance is considered standard compared to newer lures. It tends to catch fish frequently from winter to early spring, which is attributed to its effectiveness in micro-bait patterns. In such situations, casting it down-current and retrieving it dead slow or barely retrieving it, allowing the current to make it swim, often results in strong bites. This phenomenon has been observed in various urban bay areas.

Jackson Nyoro Nyoro 105: A Standard Sinking Pencil

The Jackson Nyoro Nyoro 105 is positioned as a pilot lure for the worm pattern, making it a staple in many anglers' tackle boxes [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. Its overall performance is well-balanced and high compared to other sinking pencils of its kind, making it a "go-to" lure. Among lures used for the worm pattern, it is known for both its excellent casting distance and its effectiveness in catching fish. Its reputation as a standard fixture in the worm pattern is well-deserved due owing to its reliable and consistent results.

How do specific minnows like the Ja-do Arda 86 enhance seabass fishing?

Specific minnows like the Ja-do Arda 86 enhance seabass fishing by offering a unique combination of size, weight, and action, particularly beneficial for anglers transitioning from more aggressive lures or targeting specific structures. The Ja-do Arda 86 is a sinking minnow designed by Shugo Fujisawa, known for its "chidori" (staggering) action and darting capabilities when twitched. While these advanced actions are often highlighted, the lure is highly recommended for simple slow retrieves, especially for beginners who find it challenging to catch seabass with larger minnows after starting with vibration lures.

Ja-do Arda 86: A Beginner-Friendly Sinking Minnow

The Ja-do Arda 86 measures 86mm in length (with a body length of 77mm) and weighs 9g (10g including the stock hooks) [https://fishingworld.hatenablog.jp/entry/2018/02/20/094806]. Its primary action is a wobbling roll, augmented by a characteristic "chidori" action. The author of a review on fishingworld.hatenablog.jp expresses a personal preference for the F-1: H-RH/IW color.

While the lure's marketing often emphasizes its "chidori action" and twitch-induced darting, it proves to be extremely user-friendly for seabass fishing in Tokyo Bay. The reviewer notes that "chidori action" and "S-curve" movements are no longer novel in modern lures; what truly matters is an angler's confidence to keep casting them. For more details, see Seabass Lure Ranking: 10 Years of Bay Area Statistics.

"When starting seabass fishing, you'll likely begin by throwing vibration lures or metal vibes to catch your first fish. But then, when you try throwing 130mm minnows, it's often difficult to catch anything. For those people, I recommend this sinking minnow," said the Fishingworld.hatenablog.jp author (translated from Japanese). This highlights the Arda 86's role as an excellent stepping stone for anglers looking to master minnow fishing after having success with more straightforward lures.

The official description of the Ja-do Arda 86 outlines its versatile action: "If you move it fast immediately upon landing, it will slide upon impact. From there, it shows a light 'chidori' movement at medium retrieve speeds. When it reaches areas like current lines or structures, fast retrieve or jerking will further vary its darting and 'chidori' width, inducing bites and leading to a hook-up." While these advanced techniques are possible, it is initially recommended to master the lure through a slow, steady retrieve. The twitching and darting actions are best utilized in confined spaces, such as along walls or around structures, where they allow the lure to remain in the strike zone for a longer duration, effectively enticing bites from seabass holding in these tight spots. This focus on a simple retrieve makes it approachable for those new to minnow fishing, while its advanced capabilities offer room for growth as anglers develop their skills.

What are the origins and key characteristics of 'Egi' for squid fishing?

Egi are specialized artificial lures specifically designed for catching squid, and their history is deeply rooted in Japanese fishing traditions. While their exact origins are subject to various theories, it is widely believed that egi first emerged in Japan during the Edo period [https://tsurihack.com/5384]. These unique lures are central to "eging," a popular and distinct form of squid fishing. Despite their often similar appearance at first glance, egi possess a wide range of characteristics that differentiate them significantly.

The Historical Roots and Evolution of Egi

The concept of egi as a squid lure dates back centuries in Japan. Originally crafted from natural materials, these lures have evolved into highly sophisticated artificial baits. The fundamental design of an egi mimics the shape and movement of a shrimp or small fish, which are natural prey for various squid species, particularly the Bigfin Reef Squid (Aoriika), a popular target in Japanese waters. Over time, advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques have led to the diverse array of egi available today, yet the core principle of attracting squid with a lifelike, sinking lure remains.

Key Characteristics and Diversity of Egi

Egi are not monolithic in design; they exhibit significant variations that cater to different fishing conditions and target preferences. The primary distinguishing features include size, weight, and color, all of which play a critical role in their effectiveness [https://my-best.com/7446].

Size: Egi sizes are typically denoted by a number (e.g., 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0), which generally corresponds to their length. Smaller egi are often used for less active squid or when targeting smaller individuals, while larger sizes are chosen for bigger squid or in conditions requiring more visual appeal.
Weight: The weight of an egi dictates its sink rate. Different weight configurations allow egi to be categorized as "shallow" (slower sink rate for shallower waters), "standard" (versatile for most conditions), or "deep" (faster sink rate for deeper waters or strong currents). This differentiation is crucial for effectively presenting the lure at the correct depth where squid are feeding.
Color: Egi come in a vast spectrum of colors, from natural hues to vibrant, highly visible patterns. Color choice is often influenced by water clarity, time of day, and the specific behavior of the squid. For instance, natural colors might be preferred in clear water during daylight, while brighter, fluorescent, or glow-in-the-dark colors are popular for low-light conditions or murky water.
Type/Action: Beyond size, weight, and color, egi also vary in their specific design elements that influence their action in the water. Some egi are designed for a sharp, darting action, while others have a more subtle, gliding motion. Features like external weights, different cloth coverings (e.g., natural fabric, flash foil), and various "feather" or "fin" patterns contribute to these unique actions.

Selecting the right egi is paramount for successful eging. It requires more than just having the right rod, reel, and line; understanding how these characteristics align with the prevailing fishing conditions is key to enticing squid to strike. The sheer variety of egi available today, from manufacturers like Shimano and DUEL, underscores the importance of thoughtful selection for anglers aiming to maximize their catch potential [https://my-best.com/7446].

How to choose the best egi for different fishing situations?

Choosing the best egi for different fishing situations requires careful consideration of several factors, including the specific role the egi plays in your tackle rotation, the range of available sizes, and its proven effectiveness in real-world fishing scenarios. For beginners, it's crucial to understand the distinct features and strengths of each egi to make informed decisions, as the vast number of options can be overwhelming.

Key Criteria for Egi Selection

When building an effective egi collection, prioritize lures that meet these criteria [https://www.izutsuri.com/entry/eging-best-egi]:

Role in Rotation: Each egi should serve a specific purpose within your lure rotation. This might mean having egi for different depths, retrieve speeds, or levels of appeal. A well-rounded tackle box will allow you to adapt to changing conditions and squid behavior.
Size Lineup: Ensure that your chosen egi models are available in a range of sizes. Squid can be finicky, and having options like 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 sizes of the same effective model allows you to adjust to the squid's preference on a given day or to match the size of baitfish.
Proven Effectiveness: Rely on egi that you or other trusted anglers have found consistently effective in actual fishing trips. This practical experience is invaluable and often outweighs theoretical performance claims.

Adapting Egi to Conditions

The diverse array of egi means that different types are suited for specific environments:

Depth (Shallow vs. Deep): As mentioned, egi are designed with varying sink rates. "Shallow" type egi are lighter and sink slower, making them ideal for fishing in shallow areas, over weed beds, or when squid are suspended higher in the water column. "Deep" type egi are heavier and sink faster, perfect for deeper water, strong currents, or when you need to quickly reach squid holding near the bottom.
Color and Water Clarity: The color of your egi should be matched to the water conditions. In clear water and bright daylight, natural colors (e.g., brown, green, blue) that mimic baitfish or shrimp are often effective. In murky water, low light, or at night, brighter colors (e.g., orange, pink, chartreuse) or glow-in-the-dark (Keimura) patterns can increase visibility and attract attention.
Action and Retrieve Speed: Some egi are designed for aggressive darting actions, while others have a more subtle, natural glide. Matching the egi's inherent action to the desired retrieve speed and the squid's activity level is important. When squid are active, a more erratic, fast retrieve with a darting egi might work well. When they are sluggish, a slower, smoother retrieve with a gliding egi could be more effective.
Weather and Current: Strong winds or currents can make it difficult to control lighter egi. In such conditions, heavier egi or those with a more streamlined design can help maintain contact with the bottom and prevent the lure from being swept away too quickly.

By considering these factors and continuously experimenting with different egi, anglers can significantly improve their success rate. The market constantly updates with new models, so staying informed through rankings and reviews from experienced anglers is also beneficial. For more details, see Eging Lure Ranking and Selection Guide.

Are there any general recommendations for building an effective egi tackle box?

Building an effective egi tackle box involves curating a diverse selection of lures that can adapt to various fishing conditions and squid behaviors. It's not just about having a lot of egi, but rather having the right types that offer different functionalities within your lure rotation. This ensures you are prepared for different depths, retrieve speeds, water clarities, and squid activity levels.

Diversity in Your Egi Selection

A well-rounded egi tackle box should include:

Multiple Sizes: As squid preferences can change daily, having egi in various sizes (e.g., 2.5, 3.0, 3.5) of your most trusted models is crucial. This allows you to match the size of the natural prey or the squid's mood.
Range of Sink Rates: Include both shallow-type (slow sink) and deep-type (fast sink) egi. Shallow egi are indispensable for fishing over weed beds, rocky bottoms, or when squid are suspended. Deep egi are necessary for strong currents, deeper waters, or when you need to get down to the squid quickly.
Variety of Colors: Stock egi in different color patterns. This includes natural colors for clear water and bright conditions, as well as highly visible colors (e.g., orange, pink, chartreuse) and glow-in-the-dark options for low light, murky water, or night fishing. Some egi also feature "Keimura" (UV-reactive) finishes that become visible under ultraviolet light, which can be effective during dawn/dusk.
Different Actions: While many egi have a similar "darting" action, some are designed for more aggressive side-to-side movements, while others have a more subtle, gliding fall. Having a mix allows you to experiment with what the squid respond to best on a given day.

Leveraging Rankings and Expert Advice

To stay updated and make informed choices, regularly consult expert recommendations and popular rankings. For example, monthly rankings for eging lures are updated, with data for April 2026 available on platforms like my-best.com and Yahoo! Shopping [https://my-best.com/7446, https://shopping.yahoo.co.jp/searchranking/%E3%82%A8%E3%82%AE%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B0/66769/?rmore=1]. These rankings often highlight top-performing brands like DUEL and provide insights into what other anglers are finding successful. While specific brands are popular, the overall balance of performance across different egi types is more important than sticking to just one manufacturer.

An angler with 18 years of eging experience emphasizes that "Egi also come in many different types. Like other lures and tackle, it's important to use them effectively" (translated from Japanese) [https://tsurihack.com/5384]. This highlights the need for a thoughtful approach to egi selection rather than simply accumulating lures. By focusing on versatility and understanding the specific conditions each egi is designed for, anglers can build a tackle box that effectively addresses a wide range of squid fishing scenarios.

— The JDM Tackle Lab Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between a floating minnow and a sinking minnow?

The main difference lies in their buoyancy and how they behave in the water. A floating minnow, like the Daiwa Windstorm 135F (135mm, 22.2g), stays on the surface when at rest and dives to a specific depth only during retrieve, returning to the surface when paused [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. This makes it ideal for targeting active fish near the surface or in shallow areas. A sinking minnow, such as the Evergreen Honesty 95S, slowly sinks when paused, allowing anglers to target deeper water or maintain a specific depth throughout the retrieve, making it versatile for various water columns [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html].

How does a rip-less minnow like the Crosscounter 125F differ in action from a traditional minnow?

A rip-less minnow, like the Daiwa Crosscounter 125F (125mm, 15.8g), lacks the prominent lip found on traditional minnows. This design gives it a more subtle, natural, and often erratic action, relying on its body shape and weight distribution to create movement [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. Traditional minnows, with their lips, tend to have a more pronounced wobbling or rolling action that is more predictable. The Crosscounter 125F, for instance, excels in slow retrieves, where it exhibits a gentle, wavering action, making it highly effective for targeting wary seabass, especially during night games.

What is the 'worm pattern' in seabass fishing, and which lures are best for it?

The "worm pattern" refers to a specific period, typically in early spring, when large marine worms (often called "bachi") emerge from the seabed to spawn, becoming a primary food source for seabass. Seabass feed aggressively on these worms, which often drift near the surface. Lures like the Evergreen Honesty 95S and Jackson Nyoro Nyoro 105 are highly effective for this pattern [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html]. The Honesty 95S is particularly strong due to its "no-action" retrieve, which mimics the subtle, drifting movement of worms, allowing it to catch over 90% of seabass in urban bay areas during this period for one experienced angler [https://ameblo.jp/medical-representative/entry-12718106480.html].

What are the key considerations when choosing an egi for squid fishing?

When choosing an egi, key considerations include its size, weight (which determines sink rate), color, and specific action. Egi sizes, typically ranging from 2.5 to 4.0, should match the size of the target squid and available baitfish [https://my-best.com/7446]. Weight dictates whether the egi is a "shallow" or "deep" type, crucial for fishing different depths. Color selection depends on water clarity and light conditions; natural colors for clear water, and brighter or glow-in-the-dark options for low light. Finally, different egi offer varied actions, from sharp darting to subtle gliding, which should be matched to the squid's activity level.

Can the same lures be used for both river and surf seabass fishing?

Yes, some lures can be versatile enough for both river and surf seabass fishing, though specific characteristics might make them excel in one over the other. For example, the Daiwa Windstorm 135F is a floating minnow that performs well in both large rivers and surf conditions due to its low-appeal action and casting stability [http://blog.livedoor.jp/fujieda0204/archives/cat_1237277.html]. However, surf fishing often benefits from lures with greater casting distance and stability in waves, while river fishing might prioritize responsiveness in currents. Lures like the Ja-do Arda 86 (86mm, 9g), while effective in Tokyo Bay, are particularly recommended for small areas around structures, which are more common in rivers or specific bay spots than open surf [https://fishingworld.hatenablog.jp/entry/2018/02/20/094806].