POLE FISHING FOR TUNA
The End of an Era

Narrated & Filmed by Edward S. Soltez

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[the following is the transcript from the video segment shown]

This is called three-pole fishing (the radio operator is on the left-hand side of the trio in light yellow oilskin jacket). Weight of fish, and the speed with which they are biting, determines whether one, two, or three-poles are used. One pole could be used with tuna up to 45 pounds if fish are biting slow; two poles between 45 and 90 (pounds), and three poles thereafter. Strength and weight of crewmen are also factors. Multiple poles are connected to a common hook. Barbless hooks, with feathers attached, are used when fish are biting well. When tuna refuses to bite on these lures, a baited barbless hook is used.

See Journal of San Diego History article -- 1990 interview with Edward S. Soltez

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