i have a 7'6" trigger stick that i use with 16lb. test triplefish line. i have used this for halibut and barracuda but lose lots of swimabaits and tackle because i keep getting bit off. what do you recommend to solve this problem. i have used 6" steel leader and although it keeps me from getting sawed, i only get half the strikes.

Those stinky slimy smelly things have teeth that are not only pointed but they are razor sharp on the edges which is why you get cut off (like shark or pike teeth). Halibut on the other hand have teeth like trout or salmon - pointed but not sharp on the edges. You should not have a problem getting cut off by halibut. I successfully use 6 and 8 pound test all the time for inshore halibut and I don't think I've ever been "cut" off.

This is true. I haven't broken off a halibut since I was 16 years old and that was using bait with small treble hooks. I fish mostly 14 or 16lb triple fish and occasionally 20 and have with great success for the past 7 or 8 years on the halibut, bass and whatever else in salt and in freshwater.

If you know you're fishing for cuda I would ditch the plastic and throw an iron like the tady A1 or Tady 45 on 30lb or 40lb test. They have a harder time eating through 30lb especially with a jig on the business end. Plus the cud's are easier to shake off with the A1 because it has the single hook. You will very very rarely get bit off on the jig, it's never happened to me.

Good luck and make sure to tie a good knot. Improved clinch knot or palomar knots are the only way to fly.

The key to remember when you have a barracuda on the line and you are just using a hook with live bait, is not to get an angle on the fish. For example, if the barry is going to the bow of the boat, do not pull back with your rod in the opposite direction, follow the fish. Have lost a lot of these nasty fish by getting sawed off at an angle. Won't guarantee you'll get the fish, but you'll have a less of a chance of getting sawed.

if u hook a cuda you'll know it. button down the drag and use
a steady retrieve. they will come to you slowly but surely. you'll still lose some but you'll catch some too.Use circle hooks and DON'T PUMP THE FISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! what happens is they swap ends and catch the line in thier mouth. Adios cuda
rots o ruck
dbajimbo