Rudy Tsukada’s and his son Ryu competed in the 2nd Annual Barbie Rod Derby, catching a 45-pound halibut on 15-pound test and a Frozen kid’s pole.
“My son’s, Ryu’s, 45 pound halibut off a kayak, with 15-lbs test and using a “Frozen” kiddie rod,” said Hobie pro staffer Rudy Tsukada. “Alaska Kayakers held their 2nd annual Barbie Rod Derby for Halibut. Though we had about 2 dozen folks show, only half of them fished due to challenging launch and landing conditions with 3 to 5 ft surf breaking directly onto the beach.
Photo: Ryu Tsukada holds up his plaque after winning the second annual Barbie Rod Derby held by Alaskan Kayakers.
After this fish, none of the adults weighed in any fish though most of managed to land smaller fish in the 10 pound range. People were pretty amazed though I don’t think many of the new folks realize he is actually part of the Hobie and Kokatat fishing teams. So we got to keep it in the family as I was fortunate enough to win last year’s derby.” No, the anglers didn’t let it go. Halibut filets for days!
Like they say, “It’s all in the wrist”, a firm, steady and not too rough retrieve works on pretty much any tackle. I caught a 170 pound halibut on 30# line…took an hour to haul it up, but the challenge was the last 5′ up to the rail of the boat!