Ep. 12: Nate Stilinovich on Local Water Breakdown & Depth by Species

Guest: Nate Stilinovich

Hosts: Daniel Dahlin ([FISH]rx), El Charly, Luke Dean (Bait Slingers / Artemis Charters)

Nate Stilinovich joined Episode 12, recorded live on May 2, 2023, to break down one of the most useful ways to approach SoCal fishing: understanding depth and structure first. The conversation covers where different species hold in the water column, how that changes your approach, and why simplifying your gear can actually improve results.

In This Episode

• Depth ranges by species — spotties shallow, sand bass mid-depth, calico tied to structure from shallow to deep
• Personal bests from shore and kayak — structure knowledge over access to a boat
• Universal rod setup — one rod covering 3/8 to 1 oz applications across saltwater and freshwater
• Freshwater baits in saltwater — dark sleeper and similar finesse baits translating to rocky inshore structure
• Calico in shallow structure — aggressive fish holding tighter in less complex areas
• Crankbait and jig crossover — deflection and structure contact working in both freshwater and saltwater
• Gear partnerships — Kicker rods and War Baits for inshore applications

Why Fishing Depth First Works

The key takeaway from this episode is to think about depth before anything else. Different species consistently hold in different parts of the water column, and starting with that framework makes it easier to decide where to fish and how to approach it.

Instead of picking a bait first, Nate’s approach is to identify the depth and structure, then match the presentation. That shift simplifies decision-making and leads to more consistent results.

This connects directly to how fish position around structure in SoCal. The structure fishing guide and calico bass guide both expand on how depth and structure influence where fish hold.

Simplifying Gear Improves Consistency

The universal rod setup idea highlights a different kind of efficiency. Instead of constantly switching gear, Nate focuses on learning one setup well enough to recognize different bites and conditions.

This reduces decision fatigue and keeps the focus on fishing instead of constantly adjusting equipment. It also reinforces a broader point: understanding the water matters more than optimizing gear.

Fishing Where Others Don’t

Nate’s results come largely from structure most anglers overlook or avoid. Whether it’s shallow rocky areas or less obvious access points, those zones often hold better fish because they receive less pressure.

Fishing those areas consistently requires confidence in both casting and presentation, but the payoff is higher-quality fish and less competition.

Why This Episode Matters

This episode matters because it introduces a simple but powerful framework: depth first, then structure, then presentation. Getting that order right makes everything else easier.

For SoCal anglers, the takeaway is clear: start by understanding where fish are in the water column, then adjust your approach. That foundation leads to more consistent success across different conditions and locations.

Watch the full episode on the Time On The Water YouTube channel. New episodes every Tuesday at 6 PM.

Note: This episode was originally recorded as part of Is This Mandatory, the show that became Time On The Water. Daniel was fishing and building baits under the name Dahlin Baits at the time — the brand is now [FISH]rx.