Hooked Up 155 April 2025

AUSTRALIA’S ONLY FREE FISHING & BOATING MAGAZINE

FREE ISSUE 155 - APRIL 2025

PRODUCT NEWS

Six pages of all the latest tackle.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

A road trip for big impoundment barra.

CHOOSING A POPPER

Chuggers, splashers or hybrids?

BLUESPOT FLATHEAD

The dusky of South Australia.

UNDERSTANDING JIGGING The merge of slow pitch and mechanical.

SET NEW EXPECTATIONS The NSS® 4 chartplotter and fishfinder redefines what’s possible out on the water.

simrad-yachting.com/NSS-4 With a trio of hybrid controls, a lightning quick Qualcomm® 8-core processor, and dual channel CHIRP sonar, NSS 4 is our premium, all-in-one offering for sportfishing enthusiasts and cruisers.

C-MAP® REVEAL® X charts sold separately.

Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off, and ™ common law marks. Visit www.navico.com/intellectual-property to review the global trademark rights and accreditations for Navico Group and other entities.

®

SEE ALL

REEL

INFO

NEW SALTIGA 300H

[ HYPERDRIVE DESIGN = LONG LASTING HIGH PERFORMANCE ] Strong and smooth lasting rotation is the function required for a top class overhead reel.

A powerful unit that continuously sends energy from the drive gear to the pinion gear. A robust body that suppresses force to the internals from the outside and realises a stable

HYPERDRIVE DIGIGEAR

and quiet driving force. Each functional mechanism needs to work under any condition.

The HYPERDRIVE DESIGN concept realizes efficiency under load that goes far beyond the conventional framework. DAIWA, which uses experience as a weapon, sets the next standard for the future.

daiwafishing.com.au

AUST RALIA ’S ONLY FREE

HOOKED UP MAGAZINE - APRIL 2025 - ISSUE #155

FISHI NG

& TACK LE

MAGA ZINE

ON THE COVER: Sam Gilchrist with a big impoundment barra from a recent road trip.

FREE #154 MARCH

2025

CONTENTS

Fisheries Officers in Victoria The recent decision by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) to lay off 27 fisheries officers from the Port Phillip and Western Port areas is a difficult pill to swallow. It’s hard to imagine anyone, even within the VFA, is truly happy about this decision. The reality is, it seems to be a cost-cutting measure driven by the need to balance a budget, and while I have my opinions on potential alternatives, any speculation on what those could be would be just that— speculation.

I reached out to the VFA for clarification and insight but received little in return. At the same time, I’ve seen certain anglers using their platforms to speak out against these layoffs. And while I respect their passion for the cause, I can’t help but wonder if, at times, some are more interested in boosting their own social media profiles or engaging in a bit of virtue-signaling rather than working towards a meaningful solution. Still, there’s no doubt that any awareness raised, even if imperfectly delivered, is a positive step.

Personally, I don’t want to see fisheries officers retrenched. In my 40 years of fishing, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of poor behavior on our waters— whether it’s illegal fishing, disregard for the environment, or simply bad conduct on the water. The reality is that cutting officers will likely lead to an uptick in these problems, as the small minority of anglers who flout the rules will feel emboldened.

As someone who works closely with the VFA (a valued paying client of Hooked Up Magazine), I’ve signed the petitions and voiced my concerns directly. I do hope this decision can be reconsidered, or at the very least, re-evaluated. The future of our fisheries—and the anglers who care about them—depends on having the right level of enforcement.

If you feel strongly about this, I encourage you to take action. Sign the petitions, share your thoughts, and let your voice be heard. Complaining in a comment thread or on a fishing report page won’t make as much of a difference. Taking real action will.

You can sign the petiotion by visiting the below site: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-termination-of-fisheries-officers-inwestern-port-bay-and-port-phillip-bay

6-15 FISHING & TACKLE NEWS 16-23 ON THE ROAD AGAIN 24-31 CHOOSING A POPPER 32-39 BLUESPOT FLATHEAD 40-47 THE EVOLUTION IOF JIGGING

PUBLISHER Hammerhead Media Pty Ltd EDITOR IN CHIEF Kosta Linardos kosta@hookedup.com.au

SUB EDITOR Ian Gilbert

ONLINE EDITOR Adam Hewson info@hookedupmagazine.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGN Cassandra Li, Stephen Tan

CONTRIBUTORS Colby Lesko, Sam Gilchrist, Jamie Crawford, Adam Hewson, Jason Linardos, Dean George

ADVERTISING info@hookedup.com.au

Kosta Linardos.

Editor-in-Chief www.hookedup.com.au

Find Us Online hookedup.com.au

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PCEMCODME OLDSE-LS$5 -4$954

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COMING SOON COMING SOON

HIGH HIGHPERFORMANCE PERFORMANCEOFFSHORE OFFSHORERODS RODS The latest Shimano Grappler rod ranges (TYPE J, TYPE J SLOW and TYPE C) cover the full gamut of highly The latestmodern Shimano Grapplersport rod ranges (TYPE J, TYPE Jfrom SLOW and TYPE C)knife cover the full of highly demanding saltwater fishing opportunities: conventional jigging andgamut slow-pitch demanding modern saltwater sport fishing opportunities: fromfor conventional jigging andpredators, slow-pitch jigging to distance casting with poppers, stickbaits and swimbaits the ocean’s knife fastest pelagic jigging to distance castingaswith poppers, stickbaits and swimbaits for the ocean’ s fastest pelagic predators, well as the most pugnacious of its reef dwellers. as well as the most pugnacious of its reef dwellers.

Check your local Shimano Stockists.

Check your local Shimano Stockists.

fish.shimano.com/en-AU

fish.shimano.com/en-AU

Shimano.Fish

Shimano.Fish

shimano.fish

shimano.fish

ShimanoAustralia

ShimanoAustralia

ShimanoAustralia

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@shimanoaustralia

@shimanoaustralia

FISHING & BOATING NEWS

DAIWA 25 SALTIGA 300LW

The Daiwa 25 Saltiga 300LW redefines level wind overhead reels, delivering unmatched strength, refinement, and performance for serious jigging anglers.

Built with Hyperdrive Design, this reel incorporates Daiwa’s four-pillar engineering concept to ensure unwavering durability and smooth operation.

Hyper Armed Housing and Hyper Double Support create a rock-solid frame, while Hyperdrive Digigear and Hyper Tough Clutch provide superior power and longevity. Designed for comfort and control, the frame features a thumb-holding design for enhanced grip, a swept handle for balance and power, and a T-shaped power knob to maximise comfort during intense battles. Additional features such as anode protection, an enhanced level wind system, and a new spool lock mechanism make the 25 Saltiga 300LW the most advanced level wind jigging reel Daiwa has ever created. Get ready to push your limits and break your record with the 25 Saltiga 300LW. daiwafishing.com.au

EVERGREEN WIDE SEEKER

The Evergreen Wide Seeker is a high-performance floating minnow designed for targeting monster flathead and other large predators in challenging conditions. At 14.5cm and 28.5g, it offers exceptional casting distance and durability, making it ideal for covering wide areas efficiently. Engineered as a derivative of the Stream Seeker, the Wide Seeker features a refined weak wobble roll action that maintains control in fast currents, ensuring stability even in turbulent waters. With a diving range of 0.7–0.9m, it excels in drift fishing scenarios, handling strong flows in large estuaries without excessive movement or floating up. Built for serious anglers who need precision and reliability, the Wide Seeker allows you to maintain the perfect course and depth with minimal resistance. Equipped with size #2 hooks and #5 rings, it is ready for any big fish encounter. gladiatortackle.com.au

SALTY CREW ULUA FLEECE HOOD

The Salty Crew Ulua Fleece Hood is a heavyweight staple built for warmth and comfort. Crafted from Salty Crew’s signature 380gsm cotton/polyester brushed fleece, it delivers a premium feel with durability to match. Designed with a two-piece hood and encased drawcord, rib-knit cuffs and hem, and a self-fabric kangaroo pocket, it blends function with everyday style. Digital-printed front and back graphics, along with a Salty Crew clamp label at the hood opening, complete the look. Available in Coal and a full range of sizes from S to XXL. A$99.99 MSRP salty-crew.com.au

TORAY SUPER STRONG PE F4

Toray Super Strong PE F4 is engineered for superior strength and shock absorption, incorporating nylon into the elongation process of PE fibres. This advanced construction enhances durability while maintaining sensitivity, making it an ideal choice for baitcast setups targeting bass, jacks, and barramundi. Renowned in Japan for premium quality, Toray fishing lines are developed using cutting-edge technology and the finest materials. Whether you’re spooling up with ultra-light braids for bream and trout, purpose-designed sinking braids for squid, or heavy-duty options for jigging and casting, Toray delivers exceptional performance across all fishing styles. Super Strong PE F4 is an 8-strand braid designed for precision and control. It features a multi-coloured pattern with colour changes every 25 metres, a black spot every 25 centimetres, and a white spot every metre for easy depth tracking. Made in Japan, this line offers reliability and performance for serious anglers. vivafishing.com.au

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FISHING & BOATING NEWS

SHIMANO TALICA BFC

SAMAKI ZEPHYR ELECTRIC 200

The Samaki Zephyr Electric 200 delivers serious power in a compact, durable design, making it a standout choice for light offshore fishing. Its aluminium alloy frame, CNC-machined spool, and forged aluminium handle arm ensure longevity, while high-strength brass and stainless-steel gears work with a carbon friction system to generate impressive drag power. A gapless anti-reverse system and multi-point auxiliary backstop provide precise control, and ten high-precision stainless steel bearings with a roller clutch keep every drop and retrieve ultra-smooth. The backlit LCD dot matrix display is clear in all light conditions, giving access to jigging mode, timed take-up, and meter correction. A high-performance Japanese motor automatically adjusts speed to match drag levels, with a multi-speed control switch for real-time adjustments. Built to withstand harsh conditions, its waterproof core electronics make it a reliable offshore companion. samaki.com.au

Shimano’s Talica 20 BFC represents the pinnacle of modern-day game and sport fishing performance. BFC stands for “billfish concept”, and while lots of billfish — from sails to swords — will be no doubt caught on these reels, they are also set to find favour among anglers pursuing tuna, kingfish, mackerel, wahoo, sharks and a host of other bluewater targets, whether trolling, live baiting or pitch baiting. And make no mistake, the casting credentials of these reels are also first class. Built to take full advantage of the latest generation of braided lines including the likes of PowerPro Hollow Ace, these Talica BFCs are also at home when spooled with a full load of monofilament, or with a mono’ topshot over braid. The choice is up to the angler. A cold-forged Hagane body provides the ultimate in rigidity, while the Cross Carbon drag system ensures smooth performance: season after season and fish after fish. Throw in S-ARB bearings throughout and long-term durability is also guaranteed. shimanofish.com.au

LUNKER HUNT FURENZY MOUSE The Furenzy Mouse is the ultimate hollow body topwater lure, designed to trigger explosive surface strikes. Available in 2”, 2.5”, and 3” sizes and four natural colours—brown, black, white, and grey—this lure perfectly imitates a distressed rodent skimming the surface. Its hollow body construction ensures snag resistance, making it ideal for fishing over weed beds, lilies, and heavy cover where predatory fish hunt.

What sets the Furenzy Mouse apart is its use of Lunkerhunt’s AquaFur technology, which retains up to 15% water upon contact, adding weight for increased casting accuracy and a more natural movement in the water. Whether you’re chasing bass, Murray cod, or barramundi, this lure’s lifelike profile and realistic action make it irresistible to topwater predators. Designed for durability and performance, the Furenzy Mouse delivers heart-stopping strikes and unforgettable fishing moments. ejtodd.com.au

McLURES LUCKY JET 7

McLures pride themselves on creating high-performance lures built with the latest technology and materials. Designed in Australia and crafted to the highest standards, the Lucky 7 Jet is a mid-running cup-faced jet with two jet holes to enhance the bubble trail through the water. Suitable for most sea conditions, it can be positioned effectively behind the boat to attract predators. With a variety of head colours available, including glow, tinted, and Kauri Shell options, these lures are designed to maximise visibility.

Most models feature a UV over-skirt, while the underskirt incorporates McLures’ exclusive “Luminite,” which glows in the dark across all colours.

Red Crystal 3D Eyes add to the lifelike appeal, and the near-indestructible resin heads ensure durability. Measuring 8.5” overall with 7” skirts and weighing 90 grams, the Lucky 7 Jet is available in 12 colours, making it a top choice for targeting marlin and tuna. jurofishing.com

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FISHING & BOATING NEWS

BAIT BREATH EGG TAIL SHAD 3.4 INCH Bait Breath has expanded its popular Egg Tail Shad range with the new 3.4-inch size, offering the perfect middle ground between the original 2.8-inch and the larger 4.8-inch model. Designed for versatility, this soft plastic features a unique ribbed body and a lively tail action that entices everything from bream and flathead to bass and yellowbelly. The smaller 2.8-inch has long been a favourite for finesse fishing, while the 4.8-inch caters to those chasing larger predators. Now, the 3.4-inch provides an ideal balance of profile and movement, making it a go-to for anglers wanting a do-it-all option. Infused with Bait Breath’s signature scent formula, the Egg Tail Shad is irresistible to fish and highly effective in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Whether you’re working it slow along the bottom or twitching it mid-water, this new size is set to become a must-have in any tackle box. gladiatortackle.com.au

BUCK EDGETEK FIELD FLIP STICK The EdgeTek Field FlipStik offers an easy carry sharpener with a 100% diamond coated surface and oval contour for sharpening a wide variety of blade edges. It is lightweight and compact, with a handle that also doubles as a carrying case. For those on-the-go, who may need a touch up after lots of field work, don’t be caught without a FlipStik! Grit: 750 Medium both sides. Blade Length: 10cm Overall Length: 22.9cm. Made in the USA tacspo.com.au

LOX QX10 ROD SERIES

The all-new LOX QX10 rod series is engineered for precision and technical performance, featuring a high-modulus 30T + 46T Japanese Toray carbon blank. Each of the five rods in the range has been designed for a specific technique. With a 46T butt section and cutting-edge IV Core Loop technology, these rods deliver exceptional power, stability, and recovery speed. The advanced IV Core Loop minimises distortion in the blank’s loading zone, providing increased responsiveness and casting accuracy.

The combination of 30T + 46T Toray carbon ensures an ultra-lightweight yet highly durable construction, with superior vibration damping for enhanced bite detection. Whether battling strong winds or detecting subtle strikes, the LOX rod stabilises quickly, allowing for refined control and sensitivity. Designed for anglers seeking top-tier performance, this rod series sets a new benchmark in strength, responsiveness, and durability. vivafishing.com.au

RIO PREMIER GOLD MAX The RIO Premier Gold Max fly line is built for anglers who need to cast larger flies and heavier rigs with ease. Designed to be a full line size heavier than standard lines, it features a compact head that quickly loads rods, making it ideal for delivering big dry flies, weighted nymphs with indicators, and streamers. The short front taper ensures powerful turnover, while the rear-loaded body enhances roll casting and mending. A short rear taper improves shooting for longer casts, giving anglers better control in a range of freshwater conditions. Whether you’re targeting trout in fast-flowing rivers or casting to aggressive predators in still waters, the Premier Gold Max provides the power and precision needed to get the job done. Offering a blend of versatility and performance, this line is a must-have for fly fishers who demand reliability in every cast. jmgillies.com.au 8

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www.jmgillies.com.au

FISHING & BOATING NEWS

MEGABASS SHADING-X R 55 The Megabass Shading-X R 55 is a refined evolution of the legendary finesse shad, built to dominate even the toughest fishing conditions.

Updated with the latest engineering, this lure features the Triangle Counter Balancing system (PAT.), shifting the centre of gravity for improved long-distance casting, even in strong winds. Designed for bait finesse setups, it delivers an ultra-high-pitch action that enhances its aggressive vibration and erratic movement. A movable back mount weight manipulates the lure’s ultra-thin body, creating unpredictable twitches and sharp, irregular darting motions. On a slow retrieve, the Shading-X R 55 generates subtle yet lifelike movements, while a highspeed retrieve triggers a tight, high-pitch vibration to draw reaction strikes. Whether you’re targeting pressured fish or working through changing conditions, this precision-engineered lure is built to entice strikes in the toughest scenarios. vivafishing.com.au

SAMAKI RIBCAGE LONG

The Samaki Ribcage Long is designed for deep water and strong currents, featuring an elongated profile and heavier weights for superior performance. Its unique ribcage design creates an erratic darting, spiralling, and fluttering action, mimicking an injured baitfish while generating bubbles as it descends. Its centre-balanced weight distribution delivers a natural and enticing presentation even in challenging conditions. Available in eight UV-enhanced colours and a range of sizes, it’s built for targeting kingfish, amberjack, samson fish, tuna, coral trout, and other deep-water predators. Pre-rigged with premium assist hooks and Japanese Kevlar, it’s ready to fish straight out of the box. A hardened exterior coating ensures durability, making the Ribcage Long a must-have jig for serious offshore anglers. samaki.com.au

SHIMANO INSULATED FISH BAGS

Shimano’s range of Insulated Fish Bags are designed to maintain your catch in optimal condition, even on multi-day fishing trips. Constructed from heavyduty, waterproof 1000D marine PVC with welded, reinforced seams, the bags feature a flexible, UV-resistant exterior for long-lasting durability in the marine environment. The water-tight interior lining effectively retains fluids and prevents leakage, while 14mm thick foam insulation provides exceptional cooling performance and temperature retention - ice has been tested to last over 72 hours. A large, easy-pull zipper ensures secure storage, and heavy-duty, load-bearing straps with rubberized handles allow for comfortable transport.

For added convenience, a large external drain valve lets you easily drain excess fluids, keeping your fish and ice clean. This also makes post-use cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Shimano’s Insulated Fish Bags will help you keep your hard-earned catch fresh and in optimal condition. shimanofish.com.au

SALTY CREW CAPTAINS LS TECH SHIRT

The Salty Crew Captains LS Tech Shirt is built for long days on the water. Made from 95% nylon and 5% elastane Taslon fabrication, it offers UPF50+ sun protection, antimicrobial properties, and sweat-wicking performance to keep you cool and dry. Designed for functionality, it features twin chest pockets, Salty Crew branded buttons, a two-piece collar, and a mesh-lined back yoke for added breathability. A sleeve tab and button allow for easy rolled-up sleeve adjustment, making it the perfect choice for any adventure. Available in Storm and a full range of sizes from S to XXXL. A$99.99 MSRP salty-crew.com.au

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FISHING & BOATING NEWS

DAIWA 25 SALTIGA

Refined over two decades, the 25 Saltiga is the pinnacle of strength and reliability, built with Powerdrive Design for ultimate performance when it matters most.

With a gear over 10% larger than its predecessor, it delivers unmatched power and precision with every turn. The one-piece Monocoque Body and Magsealed technology ensure superior water resistance, keeping out salt and impurities for consistent, reliable operation. Powerdrive Rotor enhances strength and efficiency, offering superior stability under heavy loads while maintaining low inertia and increased rigidity. At its core, the Powerdrive Engine body unit houses an Oversized Power Digigear and Power Roller Oscillation System, delivering exceptional winding power, smoothness, and durability. Combined with the new DRD/ATD Trough Drag system, the 25 Saltiga provides constant pressure for ultimate control during the fight. Heralding a new era in saltwater spinning reels, the 25 Saltiga is Daiwa’s strongest reel yet—built to break your record. daiwafishing.com.au

COAST COLOUR HEADLAMP

Go farther, go brighter. Designed for the outdoors, the FL78R rechargeable headlamp shines three beam colours with red and green being operated on its own separate switch. This three-mode trailblazer maxes out at 530 lumens on high with a beam distance of 156 meters, and the PURE BEAM® optic with TWIST FOCUS enables seamless transitions between Ultra View Flood Beam and BULLS-EYE Spot Beam. COAST Dual Power technology enables the headlamp to run on a COAST ZITHION-X rechargeable battery (included) that can be charged inside or outside the headlamp—with a max run time of 11 hours on one charge—or on standard alkaline AAAs (included). Constructed of top-grade materials, the FL78R is storm proof and dust resistant. tacspo.com.au

McLURES SEA MONKEY BULLET 5.5

McLures has introduced a couple of exciting new colours in their popular Sea Monkey Bullet range. The Sea Monkey Bullet features a unique bullet-shaped head and incorporates four jet holes for an enhanced bubble trail, making it perfect for high-speed trolling. These lures are designed to run further back than traditional skirts, offering a distinctive action. Available in a variety of head colours to match the skirts, including glow heads, tinted options, and Kauri Shell finishes, the Sea Monkey Bullet range also features a UV over skirt and McLures exclusive “Luminite” underskirt that glows in the dark across all colours. The lures are equipped with Red Crystal 3D Eyes, and the resin heads are virtually indestructible. Measuring 6.75” overall with a 5.5” skirt length and weighing 48 grams, these lures come in 8 vibrant colours and are highly effective for catching tuna and other high-speed pelagics. jurofishing.com.au

SAMAKI VAGABOND

Samaki Vagabond is a premium five-piece travel rod built for serious saltwater fishing. Its four-axis carbon blank delivers a crisp, fast action while maintaining the power and sensitivity of a one-piece rod. Designed for strength and performance, the Vagabond features seamless ferrule connections, Fuji K Guides, a Fuji reel seat, and AAA cork grips, ensuring durability, comfort, and control. Compact and portable, it packs neatly into the included soft travel bag, making it perfect for anglers on the move. Whether you’re targeting snapper, bream, barramundi, or reef species, this rod is built to perform across estuaries, beaches, and offshore waters. Ideal for travelling anglers, kayakers, or those seeking a high-quality rod without the hassle of transporting a fulllength setup, the Vagabond combines cutting-edge materials and refined craftsmanship in a versatile package. samaki.com.au 12

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A 100% fluorocarbon leader that features high abrasion resistance and high sensitivity. The design allows for a perfect transfer of movement to your jig or lure to hook a fish. Even though it is fluorocarbon, it can withstand big shock becasue of its smooth and tenacious features.

Knot strenght is excellent. Parallel spooling decreases line surface damage.

Made in Japan.

Available in: 50m 12lb to 50lb.

30m 60lb & 100lb

Full Contact X8 is a high-performance PE line designed for targeting large fish like kingfish, tuna, and GT. It offers exceptional strength, durability, and smooth casting. The moderate elasticity reduces tangles, while the SAKURA pink colour provides high visibility in low light. Ideal for offshore lure fishing.

Made in Japan.

Sakura Pink 300m PE 4 to PE 12

www.ejtodd.com.au

This copolymer nylon blend with TRP processing offers impressive power, abrasion resistance, and water-repelling properties. It remains supple and easy to handle, with excellent knot strength.

The leader absorbs shock from strikes and hook sets, preserving lure movement offering tenacious performance to land big fish.

Made in Japan.

Available in: 50m 4lb to 150lb.

FISHING & BOATING NEWS

SAGE R8 CLASSIC

Sage has blended classic medium-action feel with cutting-edge performance in the new R8 Classic. Designed for anglers who love the deep-loading, smooth casting action of legendary rods like the SP, SLT, and ZXL, this rod delivers a soulful yet highly responsive experience. Built with Sage’s Revolution 8 graphite, it loads deep while recovering quickly, offering precision and control without sacrificing feel. Whether you’re delicately presenting dry flies, mending nymph rigs, or rolling out effortless casts, the R8 Classic does it all with finesse. It balances power and touch beautifully, protecting light tippets while maintaining intuitive responsiveness. Aesthetically, it’s a nod to tradition with a rich brown blank, chestnut thread wraps, a figured walnut reel seat, and premium cork. More than just a rod, the R8 Classic embodies the evolution of a fly angler—fishing at a slower, more intentional pace, where every cast matters. jmgillies.com.au

DOBYNS FURY SERIES EXPANDS WITH NEW MODELS

Dobyns has expanded its popular Fury series with three new spin models, bringing even more versatility to anglers. The 7ft 2-6lb 1pc model offers a fast action, ideal for targeting bream, trout, bass, and estuary perch. For those seeking a slightly heavier option, the 7ft 4-10lb 1pc with fast action provides finesse for larger fish in structure. Both models feature a Cork/EVA split grip for comfort and control. The new 7ft 12-25lb 1pc rod with full EVA rear grip is designed for larger species like flathead, barra, and snapper. All Fury models boast high modulus graphite blanks, performance balancing, Fuji reel seats, Kevlar wrapping, AA-grade cork grips, and a hi-density EVA butt. These rods are built to deliver performance and durability for serious anglers. ejtodd.com.au

GAFF-MANN PRO SERIES

After two years of development and testing, Gaff-Mann has unveiled the Pro Series, setting a new standard in gaff technology. Built with a structuralgrade aluminium handle that’s fully anodised for durability and corrosion resistance, these gaffs are exceptionally strong yet remarkably lightweight.

Three evenly spaced grips ensure superior handling, while the real game-changer is its ability to float—eliminating the risk of losing your gaff overboard. Weighing just 900g and measuring 1450mm, the Pro Series delivers unmatched buoyancy without compromising performance. Designed for serious anglers targeting tuna, sharks, and kingfish, these gaffs offer reliability, control, and cutting-edge innovation. Whether you’re fishing offshore or inshore, the Gaff-Mann Pro Series is built to perform when it matters most. gaffmann.com.au

VEXED SINKER SACKS

Storing sinkers has always been a hassle—until now! The Vexed Sinker Sacks make organising grapnel, star, spoon, snapper leads, or any type of sinker simple and efficient. Designed with convenience in mind, these durable sacks feature sturdy handle straps for easy transport and quick access. Available in three sizes, there’s a Sinker Sack to suit every angler’s needs, whether you’re packing light for a quick session or loading up for an extended trip. Keep your tackle bag neat, your sinkers secure, and eliminate the frustration of loose weights rolling around. vexedfishing.com.au

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Samaki Zing Rod The 4th Generation Zing Series pushes performance further with: > HyperKinetic Nano+ Fibre Graphite Blanks for enhanced sensitivity and power > Fuji Concept “O” Guides for seamless line flow > Samaki Exclusive Ergonomic Reel Seat designed for comfort > Signature Camouflage Hard EVA Grips with Red Highlights for a firm hold Designed for Estuary, Inshore, Travel, Egi, and Surf, the Zing series now features species-specific models in 7’2”, 7’4”, and 7’6” lengths.

Samaki Sora Spinning Reel

7’0” Spin Medium 7’0” Spin Heavy 6’4” Baitcast Light

Discover the Difference

Engineered for durability and smooth operation, the Sora Spinning Reel features: > Micro-Adjustable Carbon Fibre Drag for ultimate control > Triple Anodized Aluminium Spool for longevity > Sealed Stainless Steel Ball Bearings ensuring fluid performance > Machined Aluminium Handle & Brass Pinion for strength and reliability > Gold Anodized Line Roller & Waterproof Drag for added protection Available in 2000, 2500, 3000, 4000 & 5000 sizes, the Sora is ready for light estuary to inshore battles.

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Fish like this make the planning, preperation and 11 hour drive all worth it. .

ON THE ROAD AGAIN Sam Gilchrist hits the road to tangle with metre-plus barramundi on a father and son fishing adventure.

Words & Images: Sam Gilchrist

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The Trip

The Prep

One of the most exciting parts of the journey you’re about to embark on is the initial planning. The fun starts when deciding the location, and studying which species to target and techniques to use. We plan our trips based on species, then select a destination on that basis. Mapping the journey is an experience enjoyed as a family or fishing group and the anticipation of what lies ahead is a huge part of what makes fishing adventures great.

Prior preparation prevents piss-poor performance! This old saying certainly rings true when it comes to fishing trips away from home. Being prepared will pay dividends.

On this occasion my son and I had opted to chase one of our favourite species, barramundi. Our chosen location was one of the well-stocked impoundments in central Queensland. These impoundments are well worth your time to visit – they’re well established for the travelling angler and often loaded with quality fish.

The Fish The challenge with barra is the diverse range of methods you can use to target them and how fussy they can be – they can drive you a little mad. Be prepared to pack a lot of lures, trays of them even, and enough rods and reels to maximise your chances by employing different techniques for whatever the water, fish or weather may throw at you.

We generally take three to five outfits each to cover all applications, from topwater to swimbaits to jerkbaiting in this case. If you can, pack a spare rod and a spare reel, in case you have a breakage or malfunction. It happens more than you’d think, especially when using heavy leaders as they can rip guides off your rods.

For this trip we re-spooled all of our outfits with 40lb braid and tied 50, 60, 70 and 80lb Saltiga X-Link leaders. We pack the reels separately from the rods and strap the rods together in their sleeves to prevent any annoying rattling on the drive, so they also arrive safely and ready to fish.

Your boat is obviously important, so check you have batteries freshly charged, charger packed, electric motor in working order, sounders ready and your boat packed down, ready to travel. Trust me, anything that can rattle loose will (even the knobs on your active target transducer may rattle off) so take spares, electrical tape and zip ties.

The most important prep is trailer prep.

Without your trailer you just won’t get to where you need to be. Check your tyres, wheel bearings, straps and motor mounts.

Make sure you’ve packed your spare wheel, bearing kits and enough tools to make repairs on the run. We pack a separate jack from our vehicle jack for ease of access and use, it makes a tyre change a five-minute experience.

The effort you put in here will pay you back in droves during your trip, so don’t take short cuts.

When travelling with mates I split the driving into two-hour shifts – it keeps you fresh behind the wheel and you’ll chew through the kilometres with ease. On this trip I had my nine-year-old son, Roly, with me (who is a gun little angler) so sharing the 11-hour drive was not an option.

Fishing and travelling go hand in hand.

Leaving your local waterway and heading out on an adventure is one of the great aspects of an angler’s life. Whatever the art of angling is to you and wherever you are in your fishing journey, fishing can take you anywhere. Nationwide, we can pack our rods, reels and lures for an amazing experience. Many anglers such as me live for the fishing trip and now that I get to enjoy it with my fishing-obsessed son, it has a whole new meaning and is even more enjoyable.

Below I will share some of our insights into planning and executing a trip, while enjoying the fruits of your efforts. I’ll take you through a recent trip of ours on which you can base your next adventure.

Young Roly with his 119cm barra taken on a soft plastic.

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I just take is easy, keep moving at a safe pace and take regular breaks to give us both a rest out of the car.

Fishing Gear We always pack too much for trips – it’s habitual and I’m not sure we’ll ever break out of the routine of packing close to every piece of fishing kit we own. However, it’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. Aside from our spare gear, we each worked three rods, all in the 40lb class of gear. We ensure all hooks on our lures are new for each trip and are checked to be razorsharp, and I cannot stress the importance of this enough. We also ensure that our landing gear such as nets are in perfect working order.

There is no point buying the boat, electronics, making a long journey and then losing fish to average hooks or leader. It’s the one percenters that count in the heat of battle.

The Fishing The trip started very slowly. The first day and night were particularly challenging; in fact we didn’t so much as raise a bite in the first 15 hours of fishing. This is to be expected when you travel to an area far from home. The first day is often more of a reconnaissance mission where you’re learning about the system and finding out what isn’t working. It’s important you keep your spirits up, keep casting and changing technique and areas until you land on what works. For us, jerkbaiting using Daiwa Double Clutch lures in natural colours as well as white turned things around once we found some fish on the Simrad Active Target. We also had great success using soft plastics.

Roly and I ended up experiencing the best barramundi fishing we’ve ever enjoyed together. Roly finished with a 119cm on soft plastic, 110cm on Double Clutch, 110cm on a Jackall Squirrel and five in the 50s.

One of amny small barra in the 50s for young Roly.

ROLY AND I ENDED UP EXPERIENCING THE BEST BARRAMUNDI FISHING WE’VE EVER ENJOYED TOGETHER.

Topwater mackerel provides extreme excitemnet with crazy aerial displays.

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The Daiwa Double Clutch 115Sp in Boney was too much for this barra to resist.

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I finished with a 118cm on a soft plastic, a 116cm on a swimbait, a 114cm on a Double Clutch, 108cm on a swimbait, 107cm on a Double Clutch and a bunch of 50s on plastics.

The quality of the fish was exceptional: big, healthy and fired up once pinned.

Roly’s passion for the sport and his ability to think outside of the box was a huge factor in our success. He actually suggested we fish a particular point at a time that I would not have fished it and bang, the 118cm bit and started our trip in a big way.

So, take your time on these trips and explore your surroundings and above all else, persist.

You’ve come all this way, so there’s no point in not giving it everything you’ve got.

Early morning is a great time to traget mackerel.

THE QUALITY OF THE FISH WAS EXCEPTIONAL: BIG, HEALTHY AND FIRED UP ONCE PINNED.

Big barra were taken at all stages of the day throughout the trip.

The Rewards They say that anything worth doing is hard.

Trips like this one are not easy, I can promise you, but if you never go, you’ll never get that experience and you might never catch the fish you want to catch.

On this occasion I had the absolute pleasure and privilege of chasing large barramundi with my son, and witnessed him doing absolutely mind-blowing things with a fishing rod in his hand. This experience does something much more than just make me smile, it fulfils my being, satisfies my human need for purpose and ‘fills my cup’ to the point of overflowing.

That to me is living your best life!

Hooking up while dad was having a dinner break!

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CHOOSING A

POPPER Learn the different popper styles and you’re on the way to some epic topwater sessions.

Words: Kosta Linardos Images: A full crew

Mitch Chapman, the man who brought the Maria Pop Queen into the spotlight and made it one of the best selling poppers for school bluefin tuna.

Few things in saltwater fishing rival the adrenaline rush of a topwater strike.

Whether you’re chasing kingfish, GTs, tuna or aggressive reef species, poppers are a go-to for triggering explosive surface bites. But not all poppers are created equal, and choosing the right one – chugger or splasher – can mean the difference between an empty cast and a reel-screaming hook-up. You may be experimenting with poppers and finding you’re not getting the results you’re after.

Starting out with any style of lure is always a journey. You’ll generally start with cheaper options and as you progress in your fishing you move into the more expensive products as you learn more about what you like and what works. You eventually may end up in the handmade and boutique world of poppers, and while they have their attributes, you don’t need to go to the top end straight away, and you may never need to. There are some highly effective and affordable poppers on the market but first you need to know the difference between the styles of popper available. So stick with us as we explain the differences between chuggers, splashers and hybrids and we’ll suggest some effective yet affordable choices you can start out with.

Chuggers Chuggers are the heavy hitters of the popper world, designed with a deep-cup face that grabs water and throws it forward in a loud, aggressive display. There are hundreds of this style of popper on the market from major global manufacturers, boutique Japanese brands, and small Australian manufacturers.

Each sweep of the rod creates a distinct ‘bloop’ sound, sending vibrations and surface commotion that mimic a fleeing or struggling baitfish. This makes chuggers ideal for rougher conditions, deeper water, and when fish are actively feeding but need an extra push to commit. They are also excellent for imitating larger prey.

pause, giving predators time to zero in before striking.

fast-moving baitfish fleeing predators or an isolated struggling baitfish.

When choosing a good chugging popper, it’s hard to go past the Yo-Zuri Mag Popper. It’s probably the best mass-production chugger on the market. It’s a cost-effective, readily available high-quality popper. It comes in two sizes – 130mm and 160mm – features Yo-Zuri’s holographic colours that reflect a lot of light, has through-wire construction, comes with 4X trebles and quality split rings, features an outstanding weight transfer system for long casts, and is very easy to get an excellent chug out of and a nice cadence to your popping rhythm. There isn’t much on the market that features all this at a price of around $40.

These lures shine when fish are feeding on smaller baits and aren’t reacting to more deliberate presentations. They also handle better in calmer conditions where a chugger’s heavy splash might be overkill.

The other notable chugger to look at is the Australian classic, the Halco Roosta. It’s a good popper that’s built well, has a huge range of colours, and is easy to use and get a great chugging action. Its biggest advantage is the huge range of sizes it comes in – 45, 60, 80, 105, 135, 160, and 195mm – and it’s priced well. The size and colour range give you a lot of options.

Splashers Splashers, also known as pencil poppers or spurters, have a slimmer, more tapered design that allows for faster retrieves and more subtle presentations. They don’t have the same big cup face as a chugger, and the cup size can vary dramatically between brands and models. Instead of the deep ‘bloop’ of a chugger, a splasher can skim across the surface, spraying water in short bursts and darting unpredictably. You can also work them with finesse, creating small darting actions with subtle spurts and exaggerated pauses. This makes them perfect for imitating

If you’re looking for a pencil popper that’s physically easy to work, cost-effective and imitates a fleeing garfish, then you can’t go past the Bluewater Classic Popper. It comes in only five colours and one size but is a very effective lure. The best action of this lure is achieved by raising the rod tip and winding with speed, where it will erratically walk and skip across the surface imitating a fleeing garfish. Up north, GTs, queenfish, and Spanish mackerel love this retrieve. It’s tailweighted and aerodynamic for long casts, has an excellent tail-down posture on the pause, features through-wire construction, good trebles and split rings, and at $20, it offers excellent bang for buck.

The other splasher that over recent years has become the go-to lure for southern bluefin tuna is the Maria Pop Queen. It had been around for a few years with mild uptake from anglers until the Victorian representative for the brand, Mitch Chapman, started catching a lot of school southern bluefin tuna on it.

Mitch found that when worked with small twitches causing small spurts followed by a long pause, it would get finicky school tuna to strike. It is now the number one-selling splasher popper for school SBT, and with good reason. It casts well, has an excellent action and pause posture, can be worked fast and slow with varying retrieve styles, is throughwired, and has a great range of reflective colours and UV additives. Best fo all, it’s an affordable lure that wont break the bank.

While you can lump chuggers into one category, they all have subtle differences in cup shape and size, and these differences can make them harder or easier to work physically and to get a good action out of.

Keen topwater anglers will spend a fortune on handmade poppers as they believe that the subtle differences in the sound it creates, the rhythm of the action required and its resting posture can make a huge difference to its effectiveness.

Chuggers excel in situations where you want to call fish up from the depths or through choppy water, and they’re particularly effective on species such as giant trevally, tuna, Spanish mackerel and other large pelagics that respond to high-impact presentations. Chuggers require a rod with a fast action, a solid rhythm, physical fitness on the angler’s behalf and plenty of patience – each exaggerated bloop demands a slight

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A chugger, a splasher and a hybrid of the two. All poppers perform differently. Left to right: Yo-Zuri Mag Popper, Maria Pop Queen, Tackle House Feed Popper.

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The Yo-Zuri Mag Popper that this yellowfin tuna took a liking to is a high quality yet affordable popper. It’s readily available at most tackle stores and is a great choice for those starting out with chugging poppers.

Hybrids Adaptability is an angler’s greatest asset, and it’s been proven many times that it’s also a tackle manufacturer’s greatest asset. Fishing gear is always evolving, and many companies have made a hybrid version of a chugger and a splasher.

One of the best examples of this is the Tackle House Contact Feed Popper. First reviewed in the July 2012 edition of Hooked Up, it was clear from the beginning that this new company out of Japan was doing something special. The Feed Popper has since been released in multiple sizes and has become one of the most effective kingfish poppers ever, while also excelling for all other pelagic species.

What sets it apart is its medium sized profile, sitting between a splasher and a chugger, and its cup face that can create a small spurt or throw a lot of water and chug – controlled by the angler’s rod movement. It features a unique tail weight that makes it sit almost vertically at a pause, giving fish a larger target and better hook exposure. It casts beautifully, has a solid rattle, and features a one-piece metal hanger instead of wire, making it incredibly strong. Available in sizes 70, 100, 120, 135 and 175mm, it comes in a vast array of colours with strong reflective holographic finishes. While it’s on the expensive side at around $40 for the 100mm size, it’s worth every cent.

Poppers vary greatly in shape which changes how they cast, swim and sit when paused.

Another great hybrid option is the Shimano Ocea Bomb Dip. Designed with a small body and loud bubble-popping action, it offers a strong appeal while maintaining a silhouette that is easy for fish to eat. Its gourd-shaped body allows for short, controlled pops and reduces lure roll, making it incredibly userfriendly. Equipped with Shimano’s Flash Boost technology, it continues to flash even when paused, further enticing wary fish.

The Tackle House Feed Popper is a hybrid of a splasher and chugger. It’s a versatile and extremley effective lure for kingfish and tuna.

Choosing the Right Popper If you’re fishing in choppy water, targeting big fish that need an aggressive trigger, or trying to draw predators up from the depths, a chugger is your best bet. If fish are keyed in on speed, the water is calm, or you’re dealing with wary feeders, a splasher may be the lure that seals the deal.

Like any lure style, poppers work best when matched to the conditions and fish behaviour on the day. Having both in your tackle box, along with a range of sizes and colours, ensures you can adjust your approach when needed – because when it comes to topwater fishing, versatility is just as important as the lure itself.

The Bluewater Classic Popper is one of the best pencil poppers on the market and it’s only $20. It’s outstanding at imitating a fleeing garfish.

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Made in Japan Gosen has been innovating fishing lines for 70 years since its founding in 1951. Now, Gosen has released its technique specific range. From the lightest lines imaginable to the heaviest.

Gosen has the Answer.

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Tyler Crawford with a nice southern bluespot caught while walking and casting from a beach.

CASTING PLASTICS FOR

SOUTHERN

BLUESPOT FLATHEAD Spend some time working the shallow flats and your efforts will be well-rewarded.

Words & Images: Jamie Crawford

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do involves walking along a sheltered beach or shallow flat, or working calm sections of coastline from the boat.

Southern bluespot are a temperate species of flathead, with their range extending from the Bemm River in eastern Victoria, across northern Tasmania, through SA and up to Kalbarri in WA. Throughout this range of distribution, they are most popularly targeted in Port Phillip Bay, through coastal bays and gulfs of SA, and along the north coast of Tasmania.

The environments in which southern bluespot are found are quite diverse, and range from shallow bays, high-energy surf beaches, within the tidal section of rivers and inlets, and extending out into deeper water. They predominantly live in shallower waters under 10m but are occasionally caught as by-catch when targeting deeper water species out to around 60m. They don’t grow to the same proportions as the dusky flathead of the east coast, but they are our southern equivalent and the biggest flathead species we have in the south. They have been recorded up to 90cm long and 8kg in weight, though most of the fish encountered are in the 30 to 50cm size, with a trophy southern bluespot hitting the magic 70cm mark.

If you’re new to targeting this species, there are definitely certain sections of coast that harbour and hold more bluespot than other sections of coastline. Most of the targeted fishing we do for southern bluespot is in water under 2m deep, with the cooler months of the year seeing better number of fish pushing into the shallows.

We’re basically looking for subtle forms of structure along a seemingly featureless stretch of sand. Look for areas of scattered rock,

channel edges and drop-offs, or areas of light weed such as eel grass scattered over the sand. Basically, any area that offers cover and camouflage for flathead is worth investigating, especially when the surrounding seafloor offers very little. If you are working along a section of sand, it’s always worth investing time around the ends of the beach as the sand leads into hard bottom – fish will often sit around these edges.

If you are fishing in areas of denser tape weed, look for sand holes or sand avenues cutting through the meadows, or look for irregular sheets of rock or areas of lighter weed coverage in which to focus your efforts.

Flathead are still prevalent throughout shallow tape weed meadows, although we tend to find them more dispersed and harder to locate so it’s important to look for subtle cues that might help to attract and hold southern bluespot. Areas of flat rock leading to the shoreline are always worth investigating, and you’ll find that flathead will push onto this rock substrate, and they camouflage well against this darker background. The edge of these flat rock sheets where they lead onto sand are definitely worth a cast.

In areas of softer sand or mud substrate, keep an eye out for ‘lies’ on the bottom, as this will be the biggest indication of flathead when scouting new areas. Sometimes a walk along a section of coast at low tide is time well spent, as it will give you an idea of any lies in the area, and of nearby structure. You’ll often find more lies in the softer sand (as opposed to compacted sand), and subsequently the fishing in these areas can be good. Once you start investigating an area, you’ll start to find productive zones where the bluespot will hold, and you’ll be able to focus your efforts over these stretches on repeat trips.

Of all the inshore species along our southern coastline, the bluespot flathead is a favourite of mine. Like all flathead species, their stealthy approach and camouflage sets them apart from other inshore species, and I love seeing a good lizard emerge from their dormant disguise to chase a lure.

They are a cool-looking fish, too, with no two individuals looking the same. They can take on a sandy yellow to dark brown colouration – depending on their environment and substrate they’re residing on – with mottled bands across their flanks and dotted with their namesake blue spots.

And they are a fun species to target. I certainly wouldn’t rate them as a hardfighting inshore species, but they put up a good account for themselves on light tackle, especially in shallow water. But it’s the surroundings and visual fishing that influence their appeal. Most of the bluespot fishing we

Bright coloured soft plastics are preferred for bluespot flathead.

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But beware that southern bluespot numbers fluctuate in the shallows, and they’re more transient than I first assumed. We’ve had a few sessions over the past few seasons where we’ve had good sessions and released upwards of 30 fish in a session, only to return a few days later and struggled to find three individual fish. Fishing is a continual learning (and sometimes humbling) experience!

Once we’ve identified the area we’re going to fish, then it’s time to start casting some lures.

In most of the locations where I focus my efforts, we have the most success during the building afternoon tide, leading into the peak of high. Always try to pick a section of coast that is sheltered from the prevailing wind and boasts clean water. Southern bluespot do not like dirty and turbid water and much prefer the cleaner water that calm conditions create.

Southern bluespot can be targeted successfully with soft plastics, metal vibes, diving hard-bodies, small surface lures and saltwater flies, and while it’s great to mix up the presentations and try different lures, we always gravitate back to soft plastics. The action of a paddle or curl-tail plastic, and the versatility and castability they offer, make them our go-to lure for our local flathead.

Being a benthic (bottom-dwelling) species, having a lure you can work along the seabed is ideal.

Big grunter like this one are a great by-catch when fishing for JP.

When working a soft plastic, whether land-based or from a boat, cast towards your targeted area, and then begin a slow, methodical retrieve. Once the plastic has settled on the bottom after the cast, I like to flick the plastic twice, letting the lure settle on the bottom again, pause for a couple of seconds and then repeat the process until the lure is back at your feet. Resist the temptation to rip the plastic back in, and instead be disciplined in maintaining that slow methodical retrieve. When the plastic is Plenty of nice flathead can be caught from the land if you don’t mind walking.

back within view, you will sometimes see a flathead following. In this case, try pausing a little longer between the hops. The ultimate is spotting a flathead from a distance then sightcasting and watching the take – it’s very cool.

Ninety per cent of bites come during the drop and are often detected as a ‘flick’ on the line as the plastic settles. When you feel this flick, lift the rod tip to set the hook. Occasionally it will be small fish hitting the plastic and failing to hook up, but it’s a great feeling when you lift the rod to feel the weight of a good fish.

We are fortunate to have so many great soft plastics on the market that are effective for southern bluespot. Try to pick a plastic from 100-160mm long, and ideally brightly coloured. I used to stick to natural colours and tried to ‘match the hatch’ by using small plastics that mimic local bait, but since switching to bigger plastics and louder colours

Fighting a good flathead from the shore..

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several years ago our strike rate on bigger fish has improved markedly. Some good colours include bright pinks, red, orange, yellow and blue. Flathead are visual feeders, so offering them something they can detect from a distance is key.

You want to select a plastic with plenty of action even during a slow retrieve. Some great plastic patterns include 100mm Squidgies Fish, 110mm Ridge Shads, 160mm Squidgies Wrigglers, 4in Storm So-Run Superu Shads and 4.2in Daiwa Bait Junkie Minnows. There are plenty of other effective patterns on the market, but these plastics are what we have the most success with. And don’t be afraid to use scents, too. Quite often a flathead will follow a lure for some distance before committing, and if your lure is scented I believe this helps those halfinterested fish to commit. I like using S-Factor, but I’m sure other scents would also work.

Then marry the plastic with a jig head with enough weight for casting, but not so heavy as to inhibit the action of the lure. You want to be able to flick the plastic off the bottom and have a few seconds of hang time before the plastic makes contact with the bottom again.

For the shallow areas we fish, I predominantly use Mustad Darter 3g (equivalent of 1/8oz) jig heads with a 1/0 hook. The hooks on these heads are strong, but still a relatively fine gauge to offer a good hook-up rate.

The ideal outfit for casting at our southern bluespot should be a rod rated at around 2-4kg with a spin reel of around 2000 or 2500 in size.

Aim to use a fast-action rod for casting and working a plastic – if the rod is too soft you will struggle to effectively work the plastic and set the hook on the strike.

I reckon I’ve had around 20 flathead rods over the years – some have been great and others not so good. Of all the rods I’ve used I would have to say the Shimano Expride

This flathead was taken over rock and note the dark colouration.

6ft 6in light spin would be the best rod for working soft plastics for southern bluespot from a boat, while the Zodias 7ft 6in would be the best for land-based casting. Having that extra length when fishing from the land is certainly appreciated.

I use 10lb braid on my flathead outfits, together with a 16lb fluorocarbon leader of around a metre. I tie this leader straight to the jig head via a loop knot. When walking a stretch of coast I just have the one rod with me, but when fishing from the boat I usually have a couple at the ready with different presentations.

As we enter the cooler months of the year, we should start to see some quality southern bluespot flathead pushing into our shallows.

They may not be the big dusky kings of the east coast, but they’re certainly a worthwhile southern alternative.

This big flathead was caught on a 160mm wriggler.

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Slow pitch jigging is fun and effective but it can’t handle all species and locations that Australia has to offer.

THE EVOLUTION OF

JIGGING

As techniques have advanced, it could be time to go back to the future for reels that are up to the task of landing big fish.

Words: Adam Hewson Images: A full crew

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they will soon find that overhead gear is far superior when jigging. However, looking at today’s overhead tackle market begs the question, have we evolved and refined jigging too far and forgotten that old-school mechanical jigging is still the most popular method?

Mechanical Jigging The roots of jigging can be traced back to the use of mechanical jigging for deep water species such as kingfish, amberjack and the powerful samson fish. Mechanical jigging requires heavy vertical jigs and a lot of physical effort. Anglers using this method needed to employ large, robust rods and reels capable of withstanding intense pressure. The rods were typically stiff, designed to handle the heavy jigs that had to be worked through the deep waters, and the reels were built to provide ample drag strength. Not a lot has changed for anglers wanting to target big fish in deep water, where high-speed mechanical jigging still reigns as an ultra-effective technique. Rods have become lighter, stronger and far more refined, yet reels may have been refined to their detriment.

Mechanical jigging’s effectiveness is undeniable, especially for species such as kingfish that are known for their powerful runs and relentless fight. The physical demands of this method suits the angler who is in good physical condition and able to sustain the repeated movements necessary to bring up heavy jigs and fight big fish.

The Slow-Pitch Revolution While mechanical jigging persisted, a new technique was quietly being developed in Japan. A forward-thinking angler named Nirohiro Sato introduced slow-pitch jigging,

Jigging, the art of fishing with a weighted jig, has undergone an extensive evolution over the past few decades. What started (and continues) as a physically demanding technique, requiring heavy gear and immense stamina, has evolved into a more refined and versatile style that appeals to anglers of all levels. Western Australia has long been the heart of Australia’s jigging scene, with its large kingfish, samson fish and demersal species such as snapper and dhufish providing the perfect playground for jigging enthusiasts.

WA anglers are known for their mastery of both mechanical and slow-pitch jigging, and their tackle choices reflect the demand for specialised, durable gear capable of handling these big, powerful fish. As Victoria and southern NSW has seen a return in fish stocks such as kingfish (and large kingfish at that), jigging has had a huge resurgence. It is common for anglers to start their jigging journey with heavy spin gear and if they’re technique-minded and looking to evolve,

which revolutionised the sport. This technique used lighter jigs, smaller gear and rods with a more forgiving action that did much of the work for the angler. Sato designed these products for Evergreen and the Poseidon Slow Jerker remains the benchmark for all slowpitch rods. Other slow-pitch rods inspired by the Slow Jerker follow the same principle that Sato invented, his main idea being “don’t infuriate kingfish”. What this means is if you go hard on a kingfish, it’ll go hard back, so by using these new ultra-thin and light parabolic rods not only was it easier working slow-pitch jigs that fluttered and danced, it was also easier fighting the fish by placing less drag pressure it. The slow-pitch style was designed to be less physically demanding, relying on the action of the rod and the natural motion of the jig rather than the angler’s strength.

The idea behind slow-pitch was simple yet ground-breaking: instead of the angler needing to perform aggressive, jerky movements to work the jig, the rod was designed to do the work. The angler needed only to turn the reel handle and the ingenious action of the rod did the work getting the jig to dance. The combination of lighter gear, a forgiving rod and smaller jigs meant longer fishing sessions without tiring out the angler, making slow-pitch jigging accessible to a broader range of anglers and more species.

The success of the slow-pitch technique in Japan sparked an international wave of interest. Anglers began to adopt it with great enthusiasm, particularly in Australia, where demersal species are abundant. It did however have its limitations in Australia and New Zealand; while a Slow Jerker in even its heaviest power rating can land big fish, when it comes to really big kingfish, samson fish or dogtooth tuna close to heavy reef, it just doesn’t have the stopping power.

The Evergreen Poseidon Slow Jerker is the original and the best of all slow pitch rods.

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The Mixing of Styles As slow-pitch jigging became more popular, many anglers began hybridising the technique with mechanical jigging and using heavier gear with heavy slow-pitch jigs. This was especially true in Australia, where both styles have been used for some time. Combining slow-pitch and mechanical jigging involved using heavier slow-pitch styled gear, but with the more aggressive, vertical style of mechanical jigging. Essentially, anglers combined the forgiving nature of slow-pitch with the brute force of traditional jigging. This hybrid style allowed for a more comfortable approach, but still retained the ability to work large, heavy jigs in deeper waters to attract and land the bigger fish.

Some traditionalists would probably frown on this hybrid approach of slow-pitch and mechanical jigging. The purity of slow-pitch, which was designed to minimise the angler’s effort and attract more fish and a better class of fish, was now being combined with the more physically demanding mechanical technique. Despite the criticism, this style has become mainstream, especially for those who want to catch big fish without the strain of heavy mechanical jigging or just by anglers putting outfits together and making it work without giving it much thought.

Left Behind As jigging styles evolved, so too did the gear. Tackle companies, ever attuned to the preferences of anglers, adapted their products to meet the growing demand for versatile and effective gear. However, one glaring issue remained: the lack of large, heavy-duty star drag reels designed for mechanical jigging.

When it comes to rods there has been some great evolution with Daiwa releasing heavy/ hybrid slow-pitch rods in its Saltiga range;

Big samson fish may be plentiful, but they require heavy gear and drag pressure to stop them.

Shimano with its Grappler Type J range; and one of the more specialist companies, Jig Star, with a vast range of heavy jigging rods.

Jig Star owner and keen heavy tackle jigging expert Chris Wong has been making ultraheavy hybrid and traditional jigging rods for some time and any angler wanting to target big fish should look at his gear, which is available in most Australian tackle stores.

Slow pitch is an excellent technique when targeting demnrsal species like snapper.

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In the past, brands such as Shimano and Daiwa had released big, heavy-duty star drag reels ideal for mechanical jigging. However, in recent years both companies have shifted their focus to larger slow-pitch reels. While the Shimano Talica and Daiwa Saltiga LD reels are excellent for trolling and live baiting, they are not ideal for heavy jigging. The nature of lever drag reels means that as you increase drag pressure, the winding pressure also increases, making them less suitable for mechanical jigging, where ease of winding is essential.

ST.Croix Rods have been handcrafting the Best Rods on Earth® for the past 75 years manufacturing rods in North America.

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Big dogtooth tuna are one of the ultimate jigging targets and they require heavy gear to stop them reaching the reef.

The absence of suitable reels for mechanical jigging has become a major concern for many serious anglers, particularly those targeting large fish. Shimano’s focus has shifted to more refined slow-pitch reels such as the Ocea Jigger range, which now go up to size 4000 but are slow-pitch reels, not for high-speed mechanical jigging. Likewise, Daiwa’s Saltiga Star Drag reels are also designed for slow-pitch jigging. While both these ranges have huge drag pressure and are beautifully made reels, the body shape, handle and arm designs are all designed for slow pitch.

Both companies have some other options such as Saltist and Trinidad, they either don’t have the drag pressure or the gear ratios needed for high-speed mechanical jigging when targeting big fish.

This shift in tackle design has become especially apparent in recent years, as anglers in Victoria and New South Wales have enjoyed excellent summers producing large kingfish.

Despite the presence of big fish, many anglers have struggled to find the right gear to handle them. As a result, they have turned to lesserknown brands such as Maxel, Accurate and Avet, which have produced more specialised reels for high-speed jigging. These reels are harder to find, especially in eastern states, but are more common in WA where jigging is a major part of the fishing culture.

For example, if you were to visit Three Kings Islands in New Zealand – known for its huge kingfish and unforgiving reef – you won’t find many anglers using Ocea Jiggers or Saltigas.

Therefore, many anglers are beginning to wonder if it’s time for these tackle giants to revisit the past and reintroduce classic star drag reels, albeit with modern updates. The demand for such reels has become apparent, particularly as anglers continue to pursue big fish with heavy jigs and substantial drag pressure. There is no doubt that Shimano and

You can’t beat old school star drag jigging reels when it comes to mechanical high speed jigging.

Daiwa can produce better reels than any other company in the world, and making reels more suited to traditional jigging wouldn’t be a hard task or even an expensive one, they probably just need to see the demand is there.

In conclusion, jigging has come a long way since its mechanical beginnings. The introduction of slow-pitch jigging, along with its hybridisation, has made the technique more accessible to a broader range of anglers and species. While tackle companies have adapted to these changes, there is still demand for heavy-duty star drag reels designed specifically for mechanical jigging. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see whether manufacturers will return to their roots and embrace the old-school style that made jigging a true test of skill and stamina. The rods are certainly available, there just aren’t reels to match.

Spin gear is fine on smaller fish but overhead tackle is far superior when targeting big fish and jigging for long hours at sea.

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