The early season bite is heating up, and when it comes to putting fish in the boat—or on the beach—light tackle is the tool of choice. Whether you're tossing soft plastics to migrating stripers or teasing a topwater hit from an albie, the right gear makes all the difference.

We checked in with some trusted guides and anglers in our network to see what they're reaching for right now. Here's what they're using—and why you might want to add it to your own kit.

Captain Eric Thomas – Teezer Charters

Captain Eric Thomas is locked in on small topwater baits and proven soft plastics this season. His picks:

• Yo-Zuri Hydro Pencil – These are his go-to topwaters when fish are looking up.

• Albie Snax – In clear, amber, white, or the eye-catching half n half white/chartreuse.

• 6-Inch RonZ – A versatile soft plastic that shines when fished with precision around structure or blitzing fish.

Perfect for early albies or tight-lipped bass that need a more finesse approach.

Captain Craig Cantelmo

“The VSFX2 is a game changer.”

Craig brings a mix of spinning and fly knowledge to the table this spring.

Gear Highlight:

• Van Staal VS150BX2F – Pair this ultra-light reel with rods up to 11’ and you'll still be able to keep topwater baits swimming through strong tides.

On the Fly:

• 9wt or 10wt fly rods for bunker schools

• Big hollow fleyes on the edges of the schools

• Smaller Hi-Tied Clousers for shoreline cruising fish

• Use intermediate lines for open water and floating lines for the shore – where water temps are 5 degrees warmer and fish are more active.

Whether it’s gear or fly, Craig is keyed in on presentation and adaptability.

Earl Evans – “Not a Captain, but Every Captain’s Favorite Guest”

“I’m boring—but it works.”

Earl keeps it classic and consistent. When the first migrating bass show up, he’s dialed into two proven producers:

• White paddle tails – Bright and irresistible, even in cold water.

• Jumpin’ Minnow(bone) – Because, let’s face it: topwater is just more fun.

• Those first migrating bass are so hungry, they won't pass up a bright paddle tail. And they'll eat it on a fast retrieve regardless of water temperature

Fast retrieves, hungry fish, and a splashy surface hit? Count us in.

Dustin Stevens - Rhode Island Kayak Fishing Adventures

Dustin’s arsenal covers the full inshore spread, and he’s not just targeting bass:

For Striped Bass:

• 4-6” Paddle Tails – Favorites include Game On! DuraTech and Gravity Tackle plastics.

• Topwater – The Game On! 4” X-Walk is a winner.

• Trolling Tubes – Only one brand matters: Butchie Built, in 24” red or black.

For Tautog:

• Tog Jigs from ½ oz to 2 oz – Simple, effective, and deadly when fished near rocky bottom.

Gear Setup:

• Tsunami SaltX II Rod

• Tsunami SaltX II Reel (4000 size) – A versatile combo perfect for togging, casting, or covering water from the kayak or the rocks.

Time to Gear Up?

From soft plastics to topwater lures, fly gear to trolling tubes—our captains are dialed in, and so is our inventory. Whether you're chasing your first bass of the year or looking to outsmart some finicky tog, Saltwater Edge has the light tackle gear you need.