• Reel in a calico bassfishing rod image by Inhumane Productions from Fotolia.com
  
  Calico bass are a favorite of those who enjoy coastal fishing. Calico bass usually thrive in habitats that provide a challenge to fisherman, making them a rewarding catch. In some areas, the fish can grow to immense size, making them sought after as trophy fish as well. Although calicos can be difficult to catch, keeping a few strategic tips in mind will help increase your odds of bringing home a delicious meal.
  
  

Habitat

• The key to any kind of fishing is knowing where to find the fish. Calico bass are selective about their habitat, so they are usually found in pockets where the conditions are just right. This is why knowing the local area is important. If you do not, consider hiring a professional boat captain who can guide you through the waters.
  
  Most calico bass reside in kelp beds in coastal waters. Kelp beds provide cool relief from the sun and are an excellent place to hide from predators. Calico bass that live in kelp beds are smaller in size but travel in schools, making it easier to find a lot of fish in one area. Calico bass sometimes can be found in rocky shallows offshore. Fish in these areas tend to be isolated, so they can be more difficult to find, but they grow to much larger sizes.
  
  

Rig

• Using the proper equipment is important when fishing for calico bass. A common fishing pole will work fine. Many people prefer using an open-faced reel on the pole because this makes it easy to snap different spools on or off so that you can change to a lighter or heavier fishing line, as needed.
  
  A No. 2 brass fishing hook or snell hook is ideal for calico bass fishing. In most instances, a fishing line rated as 10-pound test is more than sufficient. Those fishing in rocky shallows may need to upgrade to a 15- or 20-pound test to accommodate the larger size of calicos found in such an area.
  
  Various kinds of bait can be used to catch calico bass. Most people prefer to use chunks of fresh fish or plastic worms. One thing to keep in mind when fishing around rocks is to use a cork to keep your bait close to the surface so that you do not snag. If fishing in kelp beds, an adjustable egg weight is also needed so that your bait will sink properly.
  
  

Technique

• The technique for fishing for calico bass changes drastically, depending on what habitat you are fishing in.
  
  If you are fishing in rocky shallows, use a plastic worm and a cork to surface fish. Cast and reel back in repeatedly, trying to target darker spots where it looks like cooler, deeper water may be located. Be prepared to fight hard when the fish strikes the line, as calico bass are larger, stronger and put up more of a fight than the smaller calicos that live in kelp beds.
  
  If you are fishing in kelp beds, calicos are smaller and more plentiful. Anchor your boat next to an opening among the kelp. Use fresh fish as bait and use a sinker to help guide your line straight down. Release and let the weight of the line carry itself down. You will usually get a strike as the bait descends. If you find that you are catching mackeral instead of calicos, add weight so the line will sink faster. Calicos usually stay below schools of mackeral.