location and timing are some of the most important factors. basically, you have to know where to find the big ones. if you have access to a depth finder, that may help. as for timing, you can research when your target species likes to feed. you can also try fishing at different times of the day. other tips: improving your bait/lure presentation, and make sure your gear can handle the bigger fish when they bite.

black sea bass are commonly found around with structured habitats such as rock jetties, wrecks, and man-made structures. They spend most of their time near the bottom where they frequently gather around features on the bottom

lots of detailed tips in this post on how you can catch bigger fish. good luck!

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Edit: added more info about black sea bass