An amazing way to catch lings(which they are in close due to spawning) is to rig up a slip bobber much like you would for salmon. Use green label herring on a mooching rig 7-10 under a bobber. You shouldn't lose any gear if you fish it correctly and it will produce lings. I am hooked on this style. Caught 2 keepers off the north jetty in Coos Bay last weekend along with several dozen keepers last season. You don't have to cast out very far, work just a little ways off of the rocks. Good luck, let us know how you do!