Questions for the experts

[crossroads]

I started fishing for swordfish last winter. I caught 6 fish in 8 trips which i was very happy with. I became addicted to swordfishing after the first trip theese fish are awesome creatures strong, unpredictable and wild looking. I have learned a lot from this forum but i have a few questions that i would like answers to.
1) The squid i use are pre rigged with big j hooks i can't seeem to find big 15+ inch squid unrigged does anyone know where i could find some?
I would prefer to use circle hooks for easier release and less harm to the fish.
2) My boat is a large sportfish and every time i drift the boat sits so i can only fish off one side of the cockpit sometimes the boat moves faster than the baits ( i think this from a south wind ) and sometimes the baits move faster than the boat. I am wondering if this is a problem all large boats have and is the fishing better either way? it seems that when the baits are being dragged by the boat i get less strikes as apposed to when the baits are moving ahead of the boat any thoughts?
3) does anyone have problems with dolphin eating the squid usually on the shallow baits 125-150 ft every time i see one cruising in the lights it ends up hitting the bait a few minutes later?


Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated and thanks again for all the great info you guys post here

Fred.

[FinalPoint]

I probably started a little after you did, but I think I can still help.
1) Although I don't mind having a big squid out in the spread, I usually go with all mediums. If you NEED to have a large squid out, I use to find some at LHP custom rod and reel. Just call a store before you head over.
2) I usually fish off of a 40 ft. cruising vessel that really catches the wind. We can really be moving out there, and we are limited to fishing one side of the boat. I've never had a problem with keeping the baits in order, and I usually fish off of the same side every time. Just check as the baits go in to make sure the are going off the right way. If you are having a problem, you can turn the boat 180 degrees, but it seems like that only works on certain nights when the wind and waves don't mind you doing it. ALSO, we run a bait up the side of the boat where we have an outrigger clip attached to the rail. On this bait, make sure the weight is far away from the bait so that if a fish comes slapping around, the line won't get released and have a bait fall right out of a fishes mouth. Rail mounts are an option, but I prefer not to walk up there at night.
3) I've never really had a problem with dolphin, but I wouldn't get upset if I caught one, even a small one. There is pretty much nothing you can do about it. I guess you can try to catch it boatside by having a spinner ready (which I always have).
One last thing. Rig your own squid. It will save you a lot of money and you can experiment with different rigs. It is good experience and much more economical than paying 15-20 bucks for a pre-rigged. Good luck, hope something I said may have helped.