Check the regs for the area(s) you'll be fishing. In MA 6 and 7 cabezon, ling cod, and rockfish is closed until May 1 so C&R is in effect for them. If you think you have a rockfish on, take your time bringing it to the surface and it might not turn into a C&F. With halibut sized bait, you might miss the rockfish - dogfish are another matter.

Good luck.