Hooked Up 158 July 2025

AUSTRALIA’S ONLY FREE FISHING & BOATING MAGAZINE

THE 2025 EGI SPECIAL

REVIEWED 9 NEW JIGS 3 EGI RODS 2 EGI LINES EGI BUYERS GUIDE

FREE ISSUE 158 - JULY 2025

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WATCH THE

JIGS IN

ACTION

DUAL ACTION POINT

ULTRA SHARP KANNA HOOOKS

JOINTED HEAD DESIGN

AMOROUS JOINT HIGH ACTION | VERSATILE | SQUID JIG EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE The Daiwa Emeraldas Amorous Joint is a truly groundbreaking squid jig, featuring a vertical joint structure that produces a smooth and seductive dolphin-like action in the water. This lifelike movement is highly effective at triggering strikes from curious or cautious squid. What sets this jig further apart is its dual eyelet positions, allowing anglers to easily switch between different lure actions depending on the situation.

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HOOKED UP MAGAZINE - JULY 2025 - ISSUE #158

FISHI NG

& BOAT ING

THE 2025 EGI SPECIA L

ON THE COVER: A southern calamari that took a liking to a Yamashita Egi OH Search.

REV IEW ED

9 NEW JIGS 3 EGI ROD S 2 EGI LINE S EGI BUY ERS GUID

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FREE ISSUE 158

- JULY 2025

CONTENTS 6-8 FISHING & TACKLE NEWS

THE 2025 EGI SPECIAL It’s been a while since we’ve done a dedicated EGI Special – 2022, in fact – and since then, a lot has changed. Tackle, techniques, line tech and even the way anglers target squid has continued to evolve. What hasn’t changed is the national appetite for calamari. Whether you’re land-based on the east coast, drifting weed beds in WA, cruising a crystal-clear reef for tigers in North Queensland or picking apart reef patches in SA, chasing squid is part of the landscape – and it remains one of the most accessible and rewarding forms of fishing in the country.

We’ve always had a strong response to our squid-focused content, and this issue builds on that tradition. We’ve tested rods, reels, braids and jigs across months of real-world fishing – not bench tests but proper sessions, covering everything from bait squid missions to targeting big models while pushing rods to their extremes. You’ll find reviews on some of the best gear we’ve used all year: highend Japanese rods, flagship lines, budget egi reels and jigs from brands pushing design further than ever.

As always, it’s not just about what’s new, but what actually works.

Whether you’re new to egi or you’ve been pulling jigs since before UV was a thing, there’s something in this issue for you. Enjoy the read, and get out there and get stuck into some squid – whether it’s for food or stocking up on bait, it’s always a great time on the water. We love egi and we hope you do too.

Kosta Linardos.

10-13 THE EGI SPECIAL 14-19 EGI BUYERS GUIDE 20-23 STORAGE AND CLIPS 24-31 ROD & REEL REVIEWS 32-35 BRAID REVIEWS 32-35 EGI REVIEWS PUBLISHER Hammerhead Media Pty Ltd EDITOR IN CHIEF Kosta Linardos kosta@hookedup.com.au

SUB EDITOR

Editor-in-Chief

Ian Gilbert

ONLINE EDITOR Adam Hewson info@hookedupmagazine.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGN Cassandra Li, Stephen Tan

CONTRIBUTORS Dean Linardos, Judd Linardos, Kozi Sekino, Tim Haynes, Adam Hewson, Trent Ellis, Jack Burton, Eddie Carr

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FISHING & BOATING NEWS

McLURES TRAILBLAZER 8

SHIMANO 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 heavy-duty, 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 postuse 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.

McLures has released some new models for 2025 just in time for the southern bluefin barrel run and marlin season. The Trailblazer is a slant headed lure that offers more variation in its action. It swims left, right, down, pops and splashes and also offers 4 jet holes for increased bubble trail. The Trailblazer is ideally run on the leading edge of a wave closer to the boat or on a short rigger position. This lure is ideal for barrel tuna, marlin and other high speed pelagics. They come with many different head colours matching the skirts with some glow heads, some tinted and some offering Kauri Shell. These lures come with most of the range offering a UV over skirt whilst the underskirt offers McLures exclusive “Luminite” (which glows in the dark on all colours). They also come with Red Crystal 3D Eyes and are ‘Keel Weighted’ for perfect swimming action. The Trailblazers are 9.5” long overall with a skirt length of 8” and weigh 110grams. They are available in 12 brilliant colours. These lures are deadly on yellowfin tuna, southern bluefin tuna and all marlin species

shimanofish.com.au

jurofishing.com

SALTY CREW APEX–CAMO Built for long days in the sun, the Apex Perforated Hooded Sunshirt in Camo delivers serious performance with lightweight, breathable fabric and UPF50+ protection. The perforated construction keeps air flowing, while flatlock seams and side gussets provide all-day comfort and unrestricted movement. Finished with camo yardage and screen-printed graphics on the chest and sleeves, it’s a practical and stylish option for any session on the water. $89.99 AUD salty-crew.com.au

GAFF MANN CERTIFIED FIXED GAFF HANDLE

Engineered for the demands of the open water and designed for school tuna and kingfish the Certified Fixed Gaff Handle sets the standard for strength and precision. The handle and fitting, crafted from structural-grade material, are fully anodized for exceptional durability in marine environments, ensuring your gaff stands up to the toughest fishing conditions. With a total length of 1735mm, this gaff is your reliable companion for every angling adventure. The handle and fitting are meticulously crafted from structural-grade material, providing robustness and longevity. The full anodization enhances corrosion resistance, making it a reliable tool in any maritime setting. The three strategically placed grips handles offer a secure and comfortable hold, giving you optimal control during intense fishing moments. The gaff head, measures 10 x 100mm, is certified to handle weights of up to 150kg. This certification attests to the gaff’s strength and reliability, ensuring it meets the demands of serious anglers. gaffmann.com.au

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FISHING & BOATING NEWS

MERIDIAN AHI

SALTY CREW FLAGSHIP BOATSHORT

The Ahi Series is a real billfish specialist that incorporates a 10Deg face angle and enlarged front section that reduces in size toward the rear half of the head. These features produce an exceptional outrigger or long corner lure, with excellent all round performance over a range of speeds from 5 - 9 knots. Six sizes make up the Ahi series from the huge XOS down to the Ahi #5, all with exceptional fish raising characteristics. Although the Ahi series is used primarily for targeting billfish from small black marlin and sailfish up to the largest blue and black marlin, some exceptional tuna captures have also been recorded on the Ahi.

Designed for life on the water, the Flagship Boatshort in Navy blends nylon and elastane for unrestricted movement and comfort. The quickdry, 4-way stretch fabric is ideal for active days, whether you’re on deck or casting from the shore. It features a reinforced plier pocket with an internal magnet on the right hip, a lower cargo pocket, and a zippered left hip pocket for secure storage. An anti-rash interior with soft thread stitching adds all-day wearability, making these a go-to choice for serious anglers. $89.99 AUD

meridiantackle.com.au

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DUSKY FLATHEAD STOCKING More than 225,000 dusky flathead have been stocked into East Gippsland estuaries over the past five years, supporting tourism and boosting fishing opportunities. This season alone, the VFA released over 62,000 fingerlings, with nearly 190,000 going into the Gippsland Lakes since commercial netting ended. Other waters stocked include Mallacoota Inlet (10,000) and Bemm River (5,000).

These fast-growing fish hit legal size in 2–3 years, with an upper limit of 55cm protecting big breeders. The Gippsland Lakes are now producing trophy fish of 90cm-plus, drawing in lure fishers from across the country. Volunteer anglers help collect broodfish annually, with fingerlings raised in hatcheries before release. The system, long known for black bream, now offers a diverse and exciting fishery with significant tourism benefits. A $1000 tackle voucher is up for grabs for the first angler to catch a metre-long dusky in the Gippsland Lakes. vfa.vic.gov.au/gippslandmetery

STRIKE PRO SPINNERBAITS

Strike Pro has released a new updated and redesigned version of the popular Strike Pro Spinnerbait range of lures. This lure features a colour matched painted head, silk-cut silicon round skirts in some amazing new colours with some also featuring added Krystal Flash, Ball Bearing Swivels and Worm Keepers on the hook so you can attach a soft plastic for added attraction. The new Spinnerbait range also offers a bigger size range selection with 3 size options now available. They are now available in 1 1/2 oz, 3/4oz and 1/4oz options in 6 brilliant colours.

They are outstanding quality and action and are ideal for murray cod, yellowbelly, bass and redfin jurofishing.com

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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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EGI SPECIAL Words & Images: Kosta Linardos

Welcome to the 2025 egi special. Regular readers will know this used to be an annual special, but the last time we released one was in 2022. The only reason we’ve waited three years is because there haven’t been many new releases until now. Late 2024 and 2025 have seen a host of new releases in the egi world and in this issue we have six completely new jigs, three new colour series from major models, three new rods, a new reel and a couple of lines.

While the production of egi product has slowed, here at Hooked Up we don’t believe this is because its popularity has. However, through special editions like this and more information, the consumer is better educated – simply slapping the word ‘egi’ on cheap product no longer cuts it. The consumer is looking for more high-end gear and this issue certainly reflects that. So, while this means we’re not being flooded with a heap of product, the quality has greatly improved.

This made the testing and rating process hard this year as everything was great – no budget jigs and rods. We probably upset a few manufacturers over previous years and they won’t be coming back, and the product hasn’t lasted in store.

For those who are picking it up for the first time – we hope you enjoy this edition. It celebrates squid and all the amazing tackle associated with them. Just in case you’re new to fishing for squid I’ll quickly cover something very important – egi is the Japanese word for squid jig (pronounced ‘eggy’, not edgy) but it’s fine to just call them squid jigs.

Here in Victoria, 2025 has produced the best autumn egi season in memory, and the bays were packed with big squid for an extended period (this was likely due to higher water temps thanks to our long, hot summer).

Many of the gear tested in this issue hasn’t hit Australian shores yet and much of it won’t until a few months after you’re reading this.

Some gear came in March when we started the testing process and some came much later, therefore some was tested in the peak season when big squid were around in the warmer waters and some in winter as temps cooled, more fresh water entered the bay and the smaller squid hung about while the larger squid moved offshore.

So, when you see a review that pictures larger squid, it doesn’t reflect the quality of the product; some of the highest-scoring jigs caught only average squid but did so in large numbers or adverse conditions. The size of a squid isn’t a measure of the angler or the gear, you can only catch the squid that area has available to you at the time.

It’s a long hard issue to put together, it’s timeconsuming and we take the testing process seriously and spend a lot of time analysing what many think is a fairly arbitrary product, but when you really look into egi, there’s a lot to it.

We’re the first to admit that a squid of any kind is the easiest species to catch, but that is until you need to catch them. Chasing squid, cuttlefish or calamari for fun is one thing, but when you need 10 for a king mission, the sun is rising, the peak tide is coming and you’re on the clock, that’s what separates a good egi angler from an average one. Knowing how, when and where egi products work best can be the difference between a hot kingy session, a trophy snapper or that one bite from a broadbill – and going home with doughnuts.

If fishing were maths, being a good and consistent squid angler is like knowing your times tables; it’s a fundamental of fishing – catching fresh bait.

The Egi Special Test To be eligible for the ‘special’ you had to have something new we hadn’t tested yet – that could be new jig colours or sizes, and of course new brands and models.

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All tests were carried out on a boat on Port Phillip Bay, between Mount Martha and Sorrento in depths from three to 10 metres, and Western Port Bay from hastings up to Tyabb in two to 10 metres. This area is one of the hardest-fished squid grounds in Victoria (and possibly Australia), so we test the jigs in a pressured environment typical of where many of our readers fish around the country.

These locations offer different grounds, depths and varying current, from slack water through to ultra-fast flow.

We focus on small to medium-sized squid and the goal is numbers. Here at Hooked Up we are of the strong belief that big southern calamari, while awesome fun to catch, are so aggressive at the end of their life cycle that they’ll attack jigs regardless of colour. Finding them and getting the jig down to them is an art, but the capture isn’t reflective of the quality of the jig.

Each jig has to catch a minimum of five squid in a short period to make it into the special and each published jig far exceeded those numbers. Each year multiple products don’t make it to print due to poor performance and we pass the feedback on to the manufacturer or distributor, but this year was the first time we didn’t reject any products.

The idea of this special is to give you an insight into products that will help you catch squid based on your budget and needs.

It’s important to note that the jigs, rods and reels aren’t tested against each other; they’re tested against themselves and judged on their own merits. Many are designed for different applications and budgets and can’t be compared.

As an example, we had jigs that are designed for shallow water, deep water, fast current or land-based. We comment in the notes what we think they are good for.

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The Ratings

Colour Range

Versatility

We rate each jig on seven separate categories, but we also give an explanation for everything. We believe these categories provide a conclusive assessment of each brand. We strongly suggest reading the full review and not just looking at the star ratings. I have outlined below how we judge each category.

You may love the performance of a certain jig but is there enough colour variety in the range to suit the waters you fish? It’s not about having hundreds of colours, but about a variance in cloth colour, foils and body colour to find the combo you need on the day.

We assess if it’s suitable for boat, land-based, deep water, shallow water, fast current, big squid, small squid and water conditions.

Some are designed for one purpose and that’s OK.

Action

Bang For Buck

Innovation

We assess how a jig sinks and look at its stability on the drop, its angle of descent, sink rate and action on the retrieve. We judge how it sits on the bottom, and how difficult – or enjoyable – the retrieve action is to achieve.

We take all six categories and judgements into account and measure them against the average retail price you’d pay and assess whether it offers good value for money.

It’s straightforward how we judge this: it’s where we look for improvements, new shapes, actions, cloths, ways of increasing durability and eye-catching foils or paints.

Sometimes the innovation can be subtle but have a dramatic effect.

Aesthetics The aesthetics of the jigs are based on how the jig looks to us. Do you see it on the shelf and want to buy it, does it feel good to own it, do you really want to cast it? We also take into account, of course, how appealing it is to the squid.

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Build Quality We assess how durable each jig is. The main things we look at is how the eyes are fixed and if they’ll come off easily, how well the feathers are secured, how impervious the cloth is to beak bites, how well pinned the sinker is and how the hooks are secured and the quality of the hooks.

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EGI SPECIAL RATING LEGEND POOR: AVERAGE: GOOD: EXCELLENT: OUTSTANDING:

2025 EGI SPECIAL BUYERS GUIDE

Ares Egi yasha

Black Magic Squid Snatcher

Type: Standard Size: 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 5

Type: Standard Size: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 27

Daiwa Emeraldas Amorous Joint

Daiwa Emeraldas Laser Impact Shine

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 10

Type: Slow Sink Size: 3.5 Colours: 6

Daiwa Emeraldas Nude V2

Duel Mag Q Tungsten

Type: Standard/No Cloth Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 10

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 8

Evergreen Egi Bancho

Evergreen Egi Bancho SP

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 12

Type: Slow Sink Size: 2.5 Colours: 7

Fuji Maru T-Rex

Gan Craft Egi Jah

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 15

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Type: Standard Size: 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 Colours: 40

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2025 EGI SPECIAL BUYERS GUIDE

Harimitsu Sumizoku

Gan Craft Uo Jya

Type: Standrad/No Cloth Size: 3.5 Colours: 14

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 16

Little Jack Onliest

Little Jack Onliest Shallow

Type: Standard/No Cloth Size: 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 12

Type: Slow Sink/No Cloth Size: 2.5, 3.5 Colours: 12

Sephia Clinch Long Appeal

Sephia Clinch Flash Boost

Type: Slow Sink Size: 3.5 Colours: 10

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 17

Sephia Clinch Flash Boost Rattle

Yamashita Egi OH F

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 8

Type: Standard Size: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 17

Yamashita Egi OH K

Yamashita Egi OH K Shallow

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 27

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Type: Slow Sink Size: 3.5 Colours: 13

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2025 EGI SPECIAL BUYERS GUIDE

Yamashita Egi OH K Super Shallow Type: Ultra Slow SInk Size: 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 13

Type: Standard Size: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 40

Yamashita Egi OH Live Shallow

Yamashita Egi OH Search

Type: Slow Sink Size: 3.5 Colours: 10

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 8

Yamashita Egi OH TR

Yamashita Mogu Mogu

Type: Tip Run Size: 3.5 Colours: 10

Type: Bait Egi Size: 3.2 Colours: 6

Yamashita Upper 70

Yamashita Naory Range

Type: Drop Shot Size: 70mm Colours: 8

Type: Drop Shot Size: 1.5, 1.8, 2.3 Colours: 10

Yamashita Squish

Yamashita Egi OH TR Sinker

Type: Floating Drop Shot Size: 7.2mm Colours: 6

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Yamashita Egi OH Live

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Type: Tip Run Helmet Size: 10g, 20g Colours: 10

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SYSTEM SHOCK LEADER SV-1

Available in: 50m spools 12lb to 50lb 30m spools 60lb to 100lb

LINE COAT SPEED DRY

SYSTEM SHOCK LEADER NY

Available in: 150mm Spray Bottle

Available in: 30m spools 6lb to 16lb

ejtodd.com.au

2025 EGI SPECIAL BUYERS GUIDE

Yo-Zuri Aurie Q 3D Prism & Half Ghost

Yo-Zuri Aurie Q Long Cast

Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 Colours: 10

Type: Slow Sink Size: 3.5 Colours: 6

Yo-Zuri Egi Aurie Q Cloth

Yo-Zuri Egi Aurie Q Cloth Wrapped

Yo-Zuri Egi Aurie Q Neon Flash Slow

Yo-Zuri Egi Aurie Q RS

Type: Drop Shot Size: 1.8, 2.0 Colours: 5

Type: Standard Size: 2.5. 3.0. 3.5 Colours: 12

Type: Slow SInk Size: 3.5 Colours: 6

Type: Drop Shot Size: 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 Colours: 6

Yo-Zuri Egi Ebi Q

Yo-Zuri Egi Aurie Q Yakushima

Type: Standard Size: 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 12

Type: Drop Shot Size: 1.8, 2.0, 2.5 Colours: 5

Yo-Zuri Oita Egi Painted

Duel LQ Invisible Cloth

Type: Standard/No Cloth Size: 3.5 Colours: 1

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Type: Standard Size: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 Colours: 12

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LEMON LIME & BITTERS

PILLY GLOW

SOLID BLACK

SOLID WHITE

SOLID ORANGE

SOLID PINK

THE 2025 AUSTRALIAN EXCLUSIVE SUMIZOKU COLOUR RANGE VEXEDFISHING.COM.AU WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

@VEXEDFISHINGING JULY 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL

EGI STORAGE

Egi storage is crucial for any squid fishing enthusiast. Proper storage ensures that your squid jigs remain in optimal condition, preserving their feathers, colour, barbs and stopping you from pricking your fingers when you go to find the jig you’re after. Yeah, you can just chuck them in a box, but part of the fun of egi is organising them and storing them away. Whether you’re a landbased angler that wants a small collection when hitting the pier or you want the whole arsenal when you’re on the boat, these are some great options below.

VERSUS MEIHO EGI STOCKER

The Versus Egi Stocker series offers a purpose-built solution for squid jig storage. With a unique folding mechanism, the lid docks into the base, creating a standing rack for easy vertical access. This design allows for quick rinsing and drainage without unpacking. Tailored to different jig sizes—VW-ES2050 for 2.0–2.5s, VW-ES2051 for 2.5–3.5s, and VWES2052 for 3.0–4.0s—the Egi Stocker simplifies storage and cleanup, making it ideal for anglers who value efficiency.

SEPHIA EGI BOX The Sephia Egi Box is a durable and compact storage solution for squid jigs. Designed with a smart, stackable layout, it keeps your jigs organised and protected. The box features individual compartments to prevent jigs from tangling, ensuring easy access when needed. Its secure locking mechanism and lightweight design make it a reliable choice for anglers on the go.

YAMASHITA EGI WALLET The Yamashita Egi Wallet is a high-quality squid jig storage solution designed for anglers who value organization and efficiency. Crafted with durable materials, it features a compact design that securely holds multiple jigs, preventing tangling and damage. Its transparent construction allows for easy identification of contents, while the secure closure ensures safe transport. Ideal for both seasoned and novice anglers.

DAIWA D BOX EGI The Daiwa D-Box EGI is a purpose-built tackle tray designed specifically for squid jig storage. Crafted from durable, recycled polypropylene, it features a water-resistant gasket seal and a foursided clasp system to ensure secure closure and protection against the elements. The silicone insert holds up to 10 squid jigs up to size 3.5 and is removable for easy cleaning, preventing salt buildup and corrosion.

SAMAKI PREMIUM EGI TRAY The Samaki Premium Squid Jig Tackle Box is a top-tier storage solution tailored for squid fishing enthusiasts. Designed to protect your jigs from corrosion and damage, it features a waterproof O-ring seal, UV-resistant lid, and stainless steel hinge pins. The double-sided box includes a soft split foam insert with incremental slits and holes, accommodating up to 24 jigs of various sizes. Its sturdy clip-lock system ensures secure closure, making it ideal for anglers seeking durability and organisation.

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The Worlds Most Innovative High Performance Lure Company

HOOKMAG® TECHNOLOGY

Patented HookMag™ technology that keeps the front hook in the stinger position at any speed until a Wahoo or other strike occurs. The hook is then released and direct swivel connection to hook and mouth of fish.

The HookMag™ advantage of releasably retaining the belly hook in the highly effective stinger position increasing hook ups, also means no more hassle and tangle, no more belly hooks stuck over the back of the lure, and no more interference with the lure body.

• 10” Dynamic Body • 360grams (12.8oz) • HookMag™ Technology • Speed up to 20 knots

www.jurofishing.com • Selected Skirts are UV ACTIVATED • Exclusive McLures “LUMINITE” Underskirts (Vibrant Glows in the Dark) • Exclusive 3D “RED CRYSTAL” Eyes (Light Reflective) • All lures are ‘KEEL WEIGHTED’ for perfect balance • Near Indestructible Hard Resin Heads

DESIGNED IN australia

NEW 2025 RELEASES! Mogul 9”

11.5” Overall 165grams Deep Running Cup Face with Jets 12 Colours

Baja Jet 8”

9.5” Overall 100grams Bullet Head with 4 Jets 12 Colours

Trailblazer 8”

9.5” Overall 110grams Slant Head with 4 Jets 12 Colours

the evolution is here!

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2025 EGI SPECIAL

EGI CLIPS

Egi clips are a must-have for squid fishing, offering a simple and secure way to attach squid jigs to your line. Available in various sizes and designs, they allow for quick and easy jig changes without hassle. We’ve tested several egi clips, from the standard spring clips to more advanced locking clips, and highly recommend all the models below for their durability and ease of use. These clips ensure your jigs stay securely attached while providing enhanced action and smooth and secure casting.

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@GLADIATORTACKLE

For stockists contact GLADIATOR e: sales@gladiatortackle.com.au p: (02) 8958 3556 w: www.gladiatortackle.com.au

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AUSTRALIA’S DRIEST RIDING OPEN BOAT!

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JULY 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 2025 EGI EGI SPECIAL SPECIAL - RODS - RODS

ARES ARESFILE FILE25 25

Distributed Distributed By:By: Gladiator Gladiator Tackle Tackle Web: Web: gladiatortackle.com.au gladiatortackle.com.au

ARES is new to Australia but makes a vast range of rods, specialising in fly rods, trout rods, egi rods and many other styles. The ARES File 25 EG 708 Slow is a Japanesemade egi rod with a focus on ease of use for anglers of all levels. This is something new for all the rods we’ve tested over the past 12 years of testing egi rods. Japanese egi rods are generally quite stiff and aggressive in their action, but this is a slow model that allows you to easily work any jig style. It offers excellent feel and refined blank construction.

This rod was used extensively during our testing for this issue, and it stood out for its comfort, smooth load and excellent squidfighting characteristics. At 7ft 8in (2.36m), it’s a manageable length for boat-based eging – short enough to easily land squid on a boat, but with plenty of bounce for when you want to lob out a long cast with even a 3.0.

The ‘slow’ model is designed for working jigs up to size 4.0 and suits a wide range of conditions. What makes it unique is the blank

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design and build quality. ARES has wrapped the blank using its matte method, finishing the rod (except for part of the butt) in a matte unsanded texture that keeps it light, crisp and incredibly sensitive. It’s a rod that feels lively in hand, with a smooth, deep load that recovers cleanly, making it easy to work jigs with precision – whether that’s subtle hops, long sweeps or aggressive sharp jerks.

The butt section is reinforced with 4-axis carbon, giving it strength and stability when loaded up. Combined with the rod’s natural bend and the use of BIAS construction, it delivers resilience under load and reduces fatigue across a long session. You can jerk a lure all day without feeling like you’re fighting the rod – it’s an extremely comfortable rod to use.

It’s fitted with a well-matched Fuji guide train – LGST, KTSG, and KLSG in a stainless steel SIC configuration – which keeps the rod lightweight while improving durability and

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line control. Casts are accurate and smooth, and the rod handles PE lines from 0.5 to 1.2 without any issues.

From a design perspective, it’s subtle, nononsense and performance-focused. It’s not flashy, but it looks and feels like a proper piece of Japanese engineering. The matte finish gives it a stealthy, almost tactical look that fits perfectly with its purpose.

If you’re after a high-end rod that can handle anything from small inshore squid to solid offshore models in tough current, and you prefer a softer, yet controlled action over raw stiffness, the File 25 EG 708 Slow is a unique rod – we’ve never tested anything like it. It’s light, balanced, beautifully made and simply a pleasure to fish with. If you’re after an all-purpose egi rod that will superbly handle everything from a 2.5-4.0, we’ve never tested anything that compares.

2 0 2 5 E G I S P E C I A L R AT I N G CASTING: RETRIEVING:

- The length and whip-like action allows for long casts with ease.

- Has a nice bouncy retrieve action that makes working jigs very easy.

FIGHT ACTION:

- A slow action with enough power to handle big squid.

BUILD QUALITY:

- This is high-end Japanese build quality. Nothing to fault.

COMPONENTS:

- Fuji reel seat, Fuji SiC guides and a high quality HSVF blank

VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- The most versatile egi rod we’ve ever used.

- At around $700 it’s an investment, but it’s a worthy one.

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - RODS

EVERGREEN LASH JERK 75MH Distributed By: Gladiator Tackle

The Lash Jerk from Evergreen’s Poseidon Squidlaw Imperial series is exactly what the name suggests – a high-end Japanese made egi rod built for technical, aggressive and precise squid fishing. Anything from Evergreen that bares the Poseidon name is going to be special. This is a brand and a rod series that has been extremely influential on a global scale. To put it in context, any big-bait rod or slow-pitch rod you’ve ever used was either directly or indirectly influenced by an Evergreen model. Evergreen is to fishing rods what the Beatles are to rock’n’roll and what Rolex is to watches.

Web: gladiatortackle.com.au

jig size is 3.5 (the size I use most) with the kind of backbone and recovery speed you’d expect from a true Japanese-made egi rod.

The blank bends under load and rebounds instantly – like a drawn bowstring – giving you explosive control and instant feedback on each lift. It’s not just for big jigs, though; the tip is sensitive and balanced enough to work a 2.5 slowly through pressured water. Whether you’re ripping a 3.5 hard or twitching a smaller jig through a boat mooring, it delivers.

I used this rod heavily during testing for this issue and caught everything from small squid and medium models to big calamari and huge cuttlefish. In every session, in every condition, it was a joy to fish with. It’s a specialist rod for advanced anglers, and it’s one of the finest pieces of tackle I’ve used for egi.

Reinforced with Evergreen’s Quattro Cross carbon in the butt and grip section, the rod maintains torsional strength and stiffness through the blank. The unsanded finish keeps it lightweight and reactive, while the hybrid guide layout of titanium-framed K guides and RV guides (with Torzite rings, silicon carbide on the tip) reduces weight and increases casting distance.

At 7ft 5in (2.25m) and just 121g, it’s a perfect boat rod, yet it casts far enough for landbased sessions when needed. It’s tuned to work larger jigs up to size 4.5, and the perfect

It’s a two-piece rod and features a spigot joint that ensures smooth power transfer from butt to tip, and the minimal joint design keeps the action seamless.

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The Fuji VSS reel seat is polished and ergonomic, with a short, split-grip configuration that feels perfect in hand.

Instead of relying on balancers, Evergreen achieved perfect rod balance by adjusting blank thickness inside the grip – a detail that eliminates post-jerk wobble and helps you fish clean and sharp all day. The Imperial end plate on the butt is a nice finishing touch, a nod to the build quality and pride behind this series.

This rod can handle any squid, in any conditions. It’s responsive, refined and a true precision tool. With aesthetics to match its performance, the black blank, gold trims and understated detailing look every bit as premium as its price tag – which sits around $850. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re serious about egi and want one of the best rods in the game, the Lash Jerk is exactly that.

2 0 2 5 E G I S P E C I A L R AT I N G CASTING: RETRIEVING:

- For a rod of only 7ft 5in it casts amazingly well.

- Designed for agressivley working big jigs and does it so well.

FIGHT ACTION:

- It’s fast and agressive yet still forgiving, a rod to handle big squid.

BUILD QUALITY:

- It’s perfection at every level.

COMPONENTS: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- Uses only the finest components on the market.

- There isnt much you can’t do with this rod.

- At $800 it’s a lot of money for an egi rod, but worth every cent.

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - RODS

SAMAKI ZING GEN 4 EGI Distributed By: Bluefish Imports

The Samaki Zing Gen 4 EGI rod was used heavily throughout the testing process for this issue, and it proved to be one of the stand-out all-rounders in the lineup. At 8ft (model SZG804EL), it hits that sweet spot for egi. It’s not too long to be awkward in the boat, yet it’s spot-on for land-based work where long casts are crucial. If you’re fishing piers, rocks or low-tide flats, the Zing gives you the reach to cover serious ground, and on the boat it still feels manageable.

One of the rod’s best features is its load point.

It loads cleanly without feeling sloppy or soft, and that makes working jigs a breeze.

Whether you’re flicking a 2.5 in shallow water or punching out a 3.5 in deeper stuff, it recovers fast and responds well. Over the testing period, it handled both small baitsized squid and big Western Port models without any issue. The taper keeps pressure on without pulling hooks or feeling overly stiff. It’s a surprisingly capable rod at a very reasonable price point.

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Web: samaki.com.au

The look is also worth a mention. With its black and red motif and urban camo EVA grips, it stands out without being overdone.

It’s a sharp, modern design that matches well with most egi reels.

Component-wise, it’s built on a HyperKinetic Nano+ graphite blank, giving it great feel and sensitivity, and it’s fitted with Fuji Concept O guides for smooth casting and durability.

The reel seat is ergonomic and secure with a tactile locking nut that doesn’t loosen midsession.

All in all, the Samaki Zing Gen 4 is a versatile rod that offers a lot of performance for not a lot of money. It’s ideal for anyone getting serious about squid fishing without wanting to dive straight into high-end imports. It does everything you need it to do and holds up over long sessions. Whether you’re casting from the rocks, drifting the shallows or working bigger jigs in the deep.

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2 0 2 5 E G I S P E C I A L R AT I N G CASTING:

- Great for casting jigs at distance of any size.

RETRIEVING:

- Has a great load point for easily working jigs.

FIGHT ACTION:

- A parabolic action with enough power for squid of all sizes.

BUILD QUALITY:

- Excellent quality and finsihed very nicely..

COMPONENTS:

- Fuji O guides are great and we love the locking reel nut.

VERSATILITY:

- This is a rod you can use on the boat and landbased.

BANG FOR BUCK:

- It’s perfromance far exceeds the $180 price tag.

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - REELS

DAIWA EMERALDAS X Distributed By: Daiwa Australia

There was a time when buying an Emeraldas reel from Daiwa was going to set you back around $600. Those days are long gone, and the latest offering aimed at the budgetconscious angler is without doubt the best budget egi reel to hit the market. There aren’t many things that set a good egi reel apart from a good standard spin reel, but what it needs first and foremost is a high gear ratio – check. The new X is fitted with a 6.0:1 ratio.

It needs to be either 2500 or 3000 in size (I prefer 3000) – this one’s a 2500 – check.

Egi reels need a good handle knob. T-shaped handles are no good, and this is fitted with Daiwa’s long EVA Emeraldas handle, which I love. It’s comfortable to hold while jigging and has great grip.

The other big thing it needs is durability.

Egi reels get thrashed during the constant and repetitive jigging process, which can wear down gears. They also get covered in squid slime (which is full of salt), saltwater and sometimes ink – so saltwater intrusion is a factor. But most important is the gears.

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Web: daiwafishing.com.au

I’ve worn out more gears on egi reels than any other reel style. The new X has all bases covered. It features Magseal to protect the main components, a ZAION V body to keep it rigid yet light, and most importantly, Daiwa’s Tough Digigear as the main gear – and that’s the crucial bit.

The ATD drag is also worth mentioning.

It’s smooth off the start, doesn’t grab or surge, and handles light leaders beautifully – exactly what you want when dealing with squid lunges close to the boat or rocks.

Line management is excellent, too. Over multiple sessions testing jigs and rods for this egi special, we didn’t experience a single wind knot or tangle. Line lay is clean and consistent, and it casts light braid beautifully – even after hours of non-stop use. That alone puts it ahead of most reels in this price range.

On top of that, you get Airdrive rotor and bail, which keeps the reel light and smooth. I don’t care how light an egi reel is – and it surprises me that egi fanboys do. My reel of choice WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

for egi since 2016 has been a Daiwa Certate 3000 in high gear. It’s super-tough (I’m still running my 2016 Certate without service or failure) and considered heavy by comparison, but it’s a pretty expensive reel at $700. Mind you, the average egi angler doesn’t need this.

I probably did more squid fishing in the three months leading up to this issue than 99% of anglers do in a year.

However, the point I’m getting at is this – Daiwa has nailed it with the latest Emeraldas X. The price and features are spot on at $250.

There isn’t anything – and I mean anything – on the market that comes close. You could find a few reels that are similar in quality and spec, but you won’t get the egi-friendly knob, and that’s a crucial factor for me. Daiwa missed the mark on its past few Emeraldas releases, largely due to slow gear ratios, but has really hit the mark this time.

2 0 2 5 E G I S P E C I A L R AT I N G CASTING: RETRIEVING: BUILD QUALITY: LINE LAY: DRAG: BALANCE: BANG FOR BUCK:

- The long cast spool sends jigs out without issue.

- A great handle and gearing for smooth easy retrieval.

- It’s a $200 reel and there isnt much we can fault.

- It’s excellent. We had no issues through the extensive test period.

- It’s not a Cerate but it’s bloody good. All you need from an egi reel.

- It pairs up beaitifully with any egi rod.

- We dont know of any egi reel this good at $250 RRP. WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - BRAID

Gosen Answer Casting 16 Distributed By: Gladiator Tackle

Web: gladiatortackle.com.au

We’ve been using Gosen 16 Ply since it first dropped back in 2016, and we reviewed it then when it broke ground as the first 16-ply braid on the market. It’s still one of the only true 16-ply options available, and after nearly a decade remains a standout. Gosen is a premium Japanese line maker – it manufactures everything in-house and produces braid for a lot of other brands, but keeps its best work for itself. This line is the flagship, and deserves that label.

I spooled my 2016 Certate with it when we first received it, specifically for squid, and it stayed on that reel for six years. That’s not an exaggeration. It lasted that long without any serious deterioration, which tells you all you need to know about its durability.

The structure is what makes it different. The 16 strands are woven from finer fibres than your standard 8-ply, and the pitch count is tighter. That means it’s smoother, more stable and stronger. According to Gosen’s own tests, the 16-ply construction gives it 1.5x the filament density and around 1.3x the pitch, resulting in greater structural integrity and higher breaking strength compared with its 8-ply. It shows on the water – it’s clean through the guides, quieter and easy to manage, even in rough conditions.

Line ratings are solid and give you options – in Australia it’s available only in 200m spools, with PE0.8 (20lb), PE1 (23lb), PE1.5 (33lb) and PE2 (41lb) being the key sizes. All of them are coated with Gosen’s SG processing, which adds just the right amount of stiffness and toughness without making it brittle. It also helps keep the braid from fluffing up over time. The new pink colour has great visibility in all conditions, from clear sun to low light, and is a big improvement over the older green in terms of tracking your jig or micro metal.

The only reason we’re reviewing it again is because the colour and packaging have changed under the new ‘Answer’ branding. The braid itself hasn’t changed at all – and that’s the key thing for both long-time users and new converts. It’s still tight, still smooth, still incredibly strong, and probably still the most durable egi braid on the market.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING DIAMETER: BREAKING STRAIN: STIFFNESS: FIT FOR EGI: SENSITIVITY: ABRASION RESIST: BANG FOR BUCK:

Your fishing licence fees at work Rainbow Lake fishing jetty The transformation of Rainbow Lake continues with the Hindmarsh Shire Council installing a fishing jetty that includes handrails and rod holders.

We’d previously provided a grant to turn this decommissioned reservoir into a place where locals could fish, kayak and swim.

We’ve also been stocking it with catchablesize rainbow trout for the July and September school holidays.

More fish habitat in the Ovens Trout in the Ovens River will have more habitat and better passage thanks to the placement of boulders and pinned hardwood timbers, which facilitate riverbed scouring during high flows and create more depth variation.

The ‘Bridging Waters’ project is a collaboration between the Australian Trout Foundation and the North East CMA, supported by licence fees and a grant from the Victorian Government’s Go Fishing and Boating Plan.

Go Fishing Victoria More people fishing, more often

2025 EGI SPECIAL - BRAID

X-Braid Geso TSR X8 Distributed By: Bluefish Imports

Web: xbraidygk.com.au

YGK and its newer sub-brand X-Braid have consistently been putting out high-quality lines over the past four years. We have tested many of them and their leader and we haven’t had anything but praise for everything we’ve tested. This is Japanese designed and made braid, in its own factory. YGK makes braid for some of the biggest companies in the world so when it makes its own stuff, you know it’s going to be good. I was therefore stoked when at last year’s AFTA Tackle Show I saw the new egi-specific X-Braid Geso TSR X8. It is a purpose-built egi braid that has become a stand-out in our testing sessions. Designed specifically for squid fishing, this 8-strand PE line offers a combination of sensitivity, durability and casting performance that caters to both seasoned egi anglers and those looking to buy once and cry once. Yes, it’s somewhat expensive, but the quality outweighs the price.

One of the most notable features is its ultra-smooth finish, achieved through a tight weave and high water-repellent coating. This design aids the natural sink rate of the egi you’re using and minimises resistance during jerks and retrieves, allowing your egi to perform optimally without compromise. The line’s medium-firm profile reduces wind knots and tip wrap (a highly beneficial feature when eging as you should always have a lot of slack line out while the jig is sinking), ensuring a hassle-free experience on the water. While you may be tempted to use your favourite braid you’d use for other light line fishing applications, it’s always best to opt for a stiffer braid when using it for egi, as it makes for a more enjoyable and effective fishing experience.

The Geso TSR X8 also incorporates multi-colour metering, enhancing bite detection and line tracking, particularly in low light or deep water conditions. Its consistent diameter across the entire length ensures stable jig action, maintaining the stealth needed to outsmart wary squid. Geso is available in PE ratings of 0.6 (13.5lb), 0.8 (17.2lb) and 1.0 (21lb), and in 150m spools. We tested the PE1.0 and it performed without fault. This braid offers versatility for various eging scenarios and we’d recommend it to anyone.

At around $60 for a 150m spool it isn’t ultra-expensive but not cheap either; however, it feels and performs like a much more expensive braid. Whether you’re casting from the shore or drifting from a boat, the Geso TSR X8 delivers ultra-reliable performance, making it a valuable addition to your egi reel.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING DIAMETER: BREAKING STRAIN: STIFFNESS: FIT FOR EGI: SENSITIVITY: ABRASION RESIST: BANG FOR BUCK:

TWO WORLD LEADING

ANCHOR DESIGNS The SARCA EXCEL and SUPER SARCA are certified type approved Super High Holding Power.

SARCA EXCEL

SUPER SARCA

Designed and manufactured in Australia www.anchorright.com.au | 03 5968 5014

Anchor Right AustrAliA

Pty

ltd

MERIDIAN TACKLE SWORD SKIRTS

www.meridiantackle.com.au

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Designed with a longer tubular hood to better protect your bait, Meridian Tackle Sword Skirts suit squid, mackerel, salmon, tuna and more. Made from tough, durable material to withstand bait-stealing bottom fish and deep-sea conditions, they’re available in two sizes to match your bait perfectly. Easy to rig, charge and fish, they’re loaded with luminescent and UV properties to attract swords from the deep.

Charge quickly under sunlight or even faster with a UV torch.

Available now in your favourite Meridian colours.

JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Ares Egi Yasha

Distributed By: Gladiator Tackle

Web: gladiatortackle.com.au

Ares is a Japanese brand founded by Nissin back in 1948. Everything is designed in-house, and most of the gear is still made in Japan.

These days, jigs are loaded with mirrors, UV film and glow panels, but the oldschool approach still works, and these jigs prove it.

This year is the first time ARES has hit Aussie shores, and a few pages back you’ll find a write-up on its top-quality egi rods.

The sinker is particularly clever. It has a unique shape with a hole for pinning sinkers and helps the jig track straight without spinning in the current. Feathers and cloth are fixed securely, and the cloth itself feels premium – glued tightly so it won’t lift or fray.

Here, though, we’re looking at their jigs – the Egi Yasha. We were sent a few early samples, and on both test days the water had a fair bit of colour, so we tied on the brightest option we had (Pink Sorbet) and a dark one (Warning Bait).

The colour range has a nice mix of originality and contrast, something that’s clearly been thought through. What stood out for us is the use of traditional materials – foils, open weave cloths and contrasting finishes.

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The black crown hooks are a really nice touch, too – sharp, neat and visually clean. The body shape is classic, which means most egi rods will be able to get a decent dart or hop out of them. If you’re a fan of old-school Japanese jig design, you’ll love these.

They’re currentlty going to be available in 5 colours in size 3.0 and 3.5.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- It’s an innovative sinker that allows you to add weight.

AESTHETICS:

- They’re old school but they do look cool and they catch squid.

COLOUR RANGE:

- Only 5 colours but they’re original designs with great contrast.

ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- A good darting action and a nice hop. Has a stable fall.

- Build quality and components are excellent.

- Well weighted for faster currents in bays or offshore.

- At around $25 they offer great value for money.

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Daiwa Amorous Joint Distributed By: Daiwa Australia

Daiwa is really pushing its egi range under the Emeraldas banner and 2025 will see three new jigs landing in Australia: the Amorous Joint, LC Laser Impact Shine and Nude V2.

Add to that the new Emeraldas X rod and reel (the reel is reviewed a few pages back) and it’s clear Daiwa is taking egi seriously. I first saw the Amorous Joint about a year ago when a mate in China sent through a video. I didn’t know what to make of it.

The jointed head seemed a bit gimmicky and I wasn’t convinced it would help.

When the samples arrived a few months before launch, the build quality was immediately impressive – classic Daiwa – but I still wasn’t sold on the articulated head. That changed the minute we got them in the water.

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Web: daiwafishing.com.au

These things work. You’ve got two tow points – front and top – giving different actions. The front tow point gives a darting, punchy movement that works well in faster water, while the top one gives a more pronounced hop that suits slower conditions. Both are deadly.

Everything – from the cloths to the foils to the head shape and joints – has been built with care and proper attention to detail.

One night while collecting bait squid, the Amorous out-fished three other brands five to one – same colour, same depth, same water. It’s also an easy jig to work, which makes it perfect for beginners.

Daiwa might be onto something big here – I’m keen to see what other joints can be added to squid jigs.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- Highly original and packed with innovative features.

AESTHETICS:

- It’s not just the jointed head - the foils and colours are awesome..

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- It’s a great range of colours that’s focused and effective.

- Packed full of action that can be utilised by begginers and experts.

- They’re durable and finished very well.

- They have the sizes, weight and build to use anywhere.

- Extremely well priced for what you’re getting.

WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Daiwa LC Laser Impact Shine Distributed By: Daiwa Australia

Daiwa’s release of the LC Laser Impact Shine is aimed firmly at land-based anglers. While it works well from the boat, it’s clearly been designed for shore casting.

LC stands for long cast, and this jig features a magnetic cast weight transfer system that helps you launch it further than your average jig. It’s also quite a bit lighter than most egi, which gives it a slower sink rate – ideal for shallow water work from the rocks or shore.

Its standout feature is the Laser Impact 360-degree mirror, which reflects light from all angles – top, bottom and sides.

These jigs aren’t available in stores until around September and we received only one sample to test. With its clear body and wide open-weave cloth, I waited for a bright, clear day and gave it a run.

Web: daiwafishing.com.au

On cast five I lost the jig to a snag, which is why we’re light on photos for this one.

What we did notice is how stable the sink action is and how easily it responds to rod work. It’s a very responsive jig with a smooth, low-resistance glide.

The build quality is excellent – Emeraldas eyes, holographic sinker finish, and a thick strand open-weave cloth that lets the mirror flash do its thing while still being durable.

Six colours are coming to Australia in 3.0 and 3.5 (18.5g) sizes, with a mix of glow and UV bodies. If you’re a landbased angler that fishes shallow conditions then these jigs have been perfectly designed for that purpose. These jigs will be really effective in the summer months and we can’t wait to fish the rest of the range.

On the second cast, I landed a squid – and then another on the third and fourth.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- The 360 mirror and cast weight system are great features.

AESTHETICS:

- Outstanding UV and a colour range suited to shallow/clear water.

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- It’s a small range of 6 but they’re fit for purpose.

- Fall stability is outstanding and it’s easy to get a great darting action.

- The build quality is exceptional, there’s a lot in these jigs.

- These are directly aimed at landbased anglers and shallow water.

- Extremely well priced for the amount of tech packed into them.

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 158

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Duel Mag Q Tungsten Distributed By: Tacspo Australia

Another brand-new jig that hasn’t hit Australian shores yet (expected September) is the Duel Mag Q Tungsten. It’s one of the most effective and thoughtfully designed long-cast squid jigs I’ve ever used. I tested them across multiple winter sessions and caught plenty of squid on a variety of colours.

They cast a long way, and the cast weight system does exactly what it promises. As you cast, you’ll hear a click from the tungsten ball shifting rearward – the first few times I thought I’d clipped the jig on the side of the boat. Once it lands, the weight slides back to centre and locks in place via a strong magnet, giving the jig a stable posture with no need for an initial action to level it out.

Compared with other jigs, the sink is slightly slower, with a 3.5 weighing 19g (where 21g is the average) – not a slow-sink model, just slightly slower, which I found great for keeping it in the zone longer, especially in shallow or snaggy areas. They also drift well

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Web: tacspo.com.au

behind the boat, staying up longer in the water column. The action is easy to produce with subtle rod work or an aggressive hop or dart. On the drop, it draws strikes thanks to its outstanding stability and beautifully intricate design. The colour range is excellent – solid cloths, strong UV bodies and UV/ foil combos. The packaging says it emits vibration, and whether that’s from the fins or body shape, it seems to work as it gets a lot of strikes on the drop. As expected from Duel, the UV is strong, the finish is next-level, and they’re using highly durable cloths and fittings.

Thanks to the internal tungsten balls, the external sinker is small, giving the jig a more refined and realistic profile. The rubber UV Patapata fins are a classic Duel touch and help with stability, durability and finesse.

Everything about this jig feels refined and well-executed. If you’re after a long-cast egi with a bit of tech behind it, the Mag Q Tungsten is hard to beat.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- Original design with a very effective tungsten cast weight system.

AESTHETICS:

- Amazing looking jigs that feature detailed foils, UV, glow and paint.

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- A great range of highly effective colours for all situations.

- They sink beautifully for a lighter jig with a superb retrieve action.

- The build quality is exceptional in all facets of this jig.

- They’re a lighter jig so not the best for fast current and deep water.

- Extremely well priced for the amazing quality and build.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Evergreen Egi Bancho Distributed By: Gladiator Tackle

This isn’t a new jig – we’ve reviewed it many times over the years – but it’s an absolute classic and a jig we love.

The Egi Bancho is one of the greatest jigs ever made. Its build quality, components, action and sink posture have made it an undeniably amazing egi. At only 19g it can handle fast water thanks to its ultra-streamlined design, which has one of the best darting baitfish actions on the market. It still embraces oldschool jig design with a vast colour range and a huge range of foils and cloth patterns that never leaves you looking for a variation to suit the conditions.

What we do have for 2025 is a range of new colours and it was hard to get past the first two we tied on. The first was colour 0605RB – a gold foil underneath that blends to a purple on top. This is adorned by a purple top with lilac scales – highly original and highly effective.

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Web: gladiatortackle.com.au

The other new one that was a stand-out was 0606H, a pilchard-patterned cloth with a silver foil on the sides that transitions to a gold foil on top. These were some of the first jigs we received for the special edition at the start of autumn, and they slayed the big squid and cuttlefish in two amazing sessions where over 50 squid were landed in a two-hour window.

There are a bunch of new colours from Evergreen and they all look amazing.

Evergreen don’t make bad fishing gear – their rods and lures are the benchmark of the global fishing industry, and they haven’t let themselves down with their new range of colours.

The only thing you can fault about the Egi Bancho is it can be too light when you hit those much faster currents and you need a heavier jig. However, the hang time is an advantage in moderate to fast waters.

WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- That streamlined body shape and sinker design are world class.

AESTHETICS:

- One of the best looking jigs on the market.

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- A huge range of effective colours that can cover any conditions.

- One of the best fish-like darting actions on the market.

- Durable, and finished well with quality parts.

- Slightly lighter than other jigs which isn’t great in ultra fast water.

- You’’d never regret having these in your tackle tray.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Gan Craft Egi Jah

Distributed By: Gladiator Tackle

Web: gladiatortackle.com.au

This is another proven model with a range of new colours about to hit Australian shores. If you’re new to egi or our egi specials, here’s a quick rundown.

It took the Australian distributor a long time to get Gan Craft to produce a 3.0 size – originally they were only available in 3.5 and 4.0.

Gan Craft jigs are the V8 engines of egi.

They’re big for their length, with a stubby nose, wide flat head and large sides. They have huge presence in the water, an excellent stable sink rate, and enough weight for long casts.

I love them for fast, deep water and big squid. They’re great offshore and in deep, fast currents. While there are some cracking new colours in the range, I couldn’t go past #37 Emerald Shrimp. If I were to design a Port Phillip Bay colour, this would be it – green clear body, green cloth, green scale pattern and subtle black contrast. It absolutely slayed.

I got 12 squid in 12 casts during one tide change, ranging from small to big cuttlefish.

On the retrieve, there’s no messing about – these aren’t designed for your average egi rod.

They have a lot of water resistance and need a heavy rod to get them swimming at their full potential.

They’re designed with Gan Craft’s ‘Violence Jerk’ philosophy in mind. While it sounds a bit intense in English, it refers to heavy jigging with big rods and big jigs for a wide, darting action that gets noticed.

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You’ll see two new jigs have pictured which are both Australian deisgns from keen egi angler and Hooked Up contributor Oliver Wood, they are Flame and Swamp and both suit AUstralian conditions, we’re looking forward to testing them out too. Gan Craft makes serious jigs for serious squid and they have an enourmous range of colours and foils to choose from.

WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- One of the most original body shapes on the market.

AESTHETICS:

- Custom sinker, amazing cloths, foils and paint. .

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- It’s a vast and original colour range that covers everything.

- Stable fall and a big darting action with a heap of presence.

- Built tough and finished very well.

- Very well balanced size to weight ratio from 3.0 through to 4.0.

- You’re getting a lot of jig for the money.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Shimano Sephia Long Appeal Distributed By: Shimano Australia

Web: shimanofish.com.au

The Shimano Sephia Clinch Long Appeal Jet Boost is primarily designed for land-based eging in shallow water, but we’ve also had excellent success using it from the boat.

One stand-out session was in three metres of water in Western Port, drifting across heavy ribbon weed on a slow tide – the squid lit up and hit it hard and we avoided that annoying fine weed.

It’s especially effective in the shallows or when drifting over sand and weed beds, though it’s not ideal for deeper water. What makes this jig stand out is the combination of Shimano’s Jet Boost and Flash Boost systems.

The Jet Boost gives it real distance on the cast, even in headwinds, and the internal weight locks back into position instantly on splashdown.

Another hot bite came while we were fishing the moorings at Sorrento, where big squid were holding under boats and would rush the jig if left to sink naturally. The darting action is clean and responsive, and the constant shimmer from the Flash Boost plate adds extra visual appeal without needing much rod input.

You’ll notice just how far you can throw these with very little effort. On the drop, the slow sink rate (around 2.2 seconds per metre for 3.0) keeps the jig in the zone longer and helps trigger strikes on slow-moving tides. While it’s designed for shore casting, we fished it both casting and drifting from the boat and found it deadly in the right situations.

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For boat or shore, this is a smart option when fishing slow and shallow.

WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- A vibrating reflective mirror and a cast weight system - 5 stars!

AESTHETICS:

- They’re a great looking jig with a strong focus on squid appeal.

COLOUR RANGE:

- It isn’t enourmous but all bases are covered.

ACTION:

- An ultra slow sink and a great retrieve action.

BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- The build quality can’t be faulted.

- They’re too light for deep water and fast currents.

- If you want a shallow water/landbased jig you can’t go wrong.

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Yamshita Egi OH K Distributed By: EJ Todd

The K Series is the flagship jig of Yamashita’s vast egi line-up. We have reviewed the brand many times and for 2025 it has released six new colours.

Three will be out around November and the three we have for review (which I believe are three of the best K Series colours ever) are being released in August. The K Series is a special jig. It features a large body with a flat, squaredoff bottom, big square shoulders and a Hydro Fin keel. These features are all about maximum stability in areas of strong current. It works, and works very well – they have an extremely stable fall in adverse conditions, which is also an asset in calmer conditions. At 22g for a 3.5 and 16g for a 3.0, they sit on the heavier side, but the body shape slows the sink rate to three seconds a metre.

So, what you’re getting is an extremely stable sink posture, good hang time and great casting distance. A lot of time has been put into making what I believe is

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Web: ejtodd.com.au

the most versatile and one of the most effective jigs on the market. They do cost more, but they’re worth every cent.

When times are tough, this is the jig I pull out. They do need a powerful rod and aggressive technique to get the best action out of them, and once you have that sorted, they’ll run on auto-pilot to give you the most stable fall action in the business.

There are three new colours. The first we tested was 085 Mariana Monster – a purple foil with a purple cloth and great contrasting stripes of black, red and yellow. This jig accounted for countless large and small squid. As you’ll see from the image, it has almost been destroyed.

Purple is my go-to colour in Western Port as it’s visible in the dirty waters there, but on a relatively clear few days in Port Phillip, this jig was annihilated. The second colour is 086 Dokidoki Marine.

This is an excellent colour for bluewater

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and will be great offshore. We didn’t get this one wet as conditions weren’t right, but it’s one we’re keen to fish. The third new colour was 087 Green Energy. It features a green foil with an orange top and green stripes. This accounted for a heap of smaller squid once winter set in, across both 3.0 and 3.5 sizes. The K Series doesn’t get as much love as the Search and Live Series due to the price and, I think, anglers not understanding just how effective it is. You should definitely make room in the tackle tray for these.

2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- The body design and keel is like no other. Warm jacket & 490 glow.

AESTHETICS:

- A beautiful mix of effective design, foils, paint, UV and glow.

COLOUR RANGE:

- It’s an ever-growing range that covers all bases.

ACTION:

- An outstanding action with big underwater presence.

BUILD QUALITY:

- There is a lot to these jigs and they execute it perfectly.

VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- From 2.5 through to 4.0 the size and weight balance is perfect.

- You’re getting a lot of value for money with these jigs WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

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2025 EGI SPECIAL - JIGS

Yo-Zuri Neon Flash Slow Distributed By: Tacspo Australia

Web: tacspo.com.au

The Aurie-Q Neon Flash Slow might not look all that different at first glance, but it’s a seriously refined jig that shines when conditions are tough. I fished these just after the new moon – one of the most difficult times to catch squid – when the tide on one side runs long and fast and the other slows right down.

The detail in these jigs is incredible. Yo-Zuri has used five distinct body types – standard, blue glow, lime glow, silent and clear – with colour markings to help you identify them quickly. The cloth patterns are equally well done, made from high-quality materials with intricate foil work and exceptional paint finishes.

It’s on that slow side, when squid are finicky and holding deep or tight to cover, that these jigs really come into their own. They’re slowsinking – about 5.5 seconds per metre – so you need a bit of patience, but on that session they were the only jig getting consistent hits.

Everything about this jig is clean, polished and smartly built. The round hook design helps with solid hook-ups, too. If you’re fishing pressured areas, flat tides, or need to keep the jig in the zone longer, these are the jigs you want. Like wise if you’re a landbased angler working the shallows these are an excellent option for you.

On a day when not much ought to have happened, I landed a heap of squid. These are designed for slow tides, tough bites, and land-based work where a longer hang time is key. So while they’re not a highly versatile jig you’ll be using on every session, they do have a place.

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They’re subtle, highly detailed, and highly effective when nothing else is working in slow water. There’s a mix of Yo-Zuri’s classic colours on offer as well as some great new colour patterns.

WWW.HOOKEDUP.COM.AU

2025 EGI SPECIAL RATING INNOVATION:

- Perhaps the best ultra slow fall action we’ve seen.

AESTHETICS:

- Encompasses Yo-Zuri’s classic colours and epic new colours..

COLOUR RANGE: ACTION: BUILD QUALITY: VERSATILITY: BANG FOR BUCK:

- It isn’t huge but the colours available are top notch.

- Amazing slow and stable fall and beautiful dart and hopping action.

- It can’t be faulted, there is alot of design and work in these jigs.

- These are a slow fall jig, so fit for purpose but not versatile.

- Worth every cent.

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C-SERIES SEMI-OFFROAD LOWERED REAR ROLLLER FOR EASY RETRIEVE IN SHALLOW WATER GALVANISED METAL CURVED WHEELGUARDS

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