How To Catch Jewfish in Australia: Tips, Tricks, and the Best Baits

Catching Jewfish in Australia: Tips, Tricks, and the Best Baits

Introduction:
If you're an angler looking for an exhilarating challenge in Australia's coastal waters, catching Jewfish should be on your fishing bucket list.

These powerful and elusive predators are a popular target among seasoned anglers. This comprehensive guide'll delve into the techniques, equipment, and strategies to help you catch Jewfish successfully.

Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, finnedfishen.com.au has everything you need to know about catching Jewfish in Australia.

1. Understanding Jewfish:
Jewfish, also known as Mulloway, are prized catches in Australian waters. They can grow to impressive sizes, with some specimens reaching over 50 kilograms.

These fish are known for their strength and cunning, making them a thrilling target for anglers. Their silvery bodies and sharp teeth make them a remarkable sight when they breach the surface.

2. Where to Find Jewfish:
a. Coastal Estuaries: Jewfish are often found in estuaries, particularly in areas with deep channels, rocky structures, and ample prey.

They prefer estuaries where baitfish gather, providing them with a steady food source.

b. Beaches: When fishing on beaches, look for gutters, holes, and sandbanks near the shore, especially during low light conditions.

These areas are natural hunting grounds for Jewfish, providing cover and access to prey.

c. Offshore Reefs: For those who enjoy offshore fishing, Jewfish also inhabit reefs. They hide among the rocky crevices and wait for prey to pass by.

These reefs can often be found several kilometers from the coastline, so a reliable boat is essential for reaching them.

3. Best Times to Fish:
Jewfish are more active during specific times and conditions:

a. Dawn and Dusk: Jewfish are most active during low light periods, such as sunrise and sunset. The reduced light levels provide them with cover and surprise when hunting.

b. Tides: Fish during the change of tides, when the water movement stirs up prey and attracts Jewfish. Many experienced anglers swear by the last hour of the incoming tide and the first hour of the outgoing tide as prime times for Jewfish.

c. Cooler Months: Winter and early spring are prime seasons for Jewfish, as they prefer cooler water temperatures.

During these months, water temperatures drop, and Jewfish become more active in search of prey.

4. Fishing Techniques:

a. Throwing Nets for Live Bait:

Catching live bait like poddy mullet or prawns can be highly effective. Use a cast net to gather live bait for your Jewfish expedition. Ensure you check local regulations regarding the use of cast nets and the collection of live bait.

b. Lure Fishing:

When using lures, consider soft plastics and swimbaits that can mimic the Jewfish's favorite prey match bait swimming around the area . Slow, erratic retrieves often yield great results. Choose lures that match the size and color of the local baitfish.

c. Dead Bait:

Mullet and whiting are excellent dead bait choices. These baits are part of the Jewfish's natural diet and are readily available in many Australian waters.

Fish them whole or in chunks, presenting them naturally to attract Jewfish. Experiment with different bait sizes and presentations to determine what works best in your area.

5. Best Baits for Jewfish:
Mullet and whiting are top choices for Jewfish bait. These baitfish are commonly found in estuaries and coastal waters, making them easily accessible to anglers. Freshly caught or purchased bait is ideal.

Some anglers also brine their bait to toughen it up and make it more attractive to Jewfish. Live bait can be incredibly effective, as it mimics the movement and scent of real prey.

6. Tips and Tricks:

a. Patience:

Jewfish can be elusive and selective, so be patient and persistent. It may take several attempts to locate and hook one of these prized fish, but the reward is well worth the effort.

b. Use Quality Gear:

Invest in strong and durable fishing equipment, as Jewfish can put up a tough fight. A medium to heavy-action rod with a high-quality reel and braided line is essential for handling these powerful fish.

c. Stealth:

Approach fishing spots quietly to avoid spooking the fish. Jewfish have keen senses, and any disturbance in the water can send them fleeing. Use a trolling motor or paddle quietly to position your boat or fish from the shoreline without making excessive noise.

d. Knot Strength:

Ensure your knots are strong, as Jewfish can test your line's limits. Use reliable knots like the Palomar or Improved Clinch Knot to secure your hooks and lures.

7. Equipment:

a. Throw Net:
- A well-designed cast net is essential for catching live bait like poddy mullet or prawns. Choose a net with the appropriate size and mesh pattern for the baitfish in your area.

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b. Rod Size:
- When targeting Jewfish, opt for a medium to heavy-action fishing rod. A rod length of 7 to 8 feet is ideal for casting, controlling the fight, and handling larger fish.

c. Reel - Baitrunner:
- A spinning reel with a Baitrunner feature can be handy when fishing for Jewfish. This feature allows the fish to take some line before you engage the drag, reducing the chances of the fish feeling resistance and spooking.

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d. Line - 30lb Main Line, 50lb Leader Minimum:

Your main fishing line should have a breaking strength of around 30 pounds, as Jewfish are strong fighters.

Use a fluorocarbon leader with a minimum breaking strength of 50 pounds to provide abrasion resistance and prevent the fish from snapping your line against sharp structures.

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e. Landing Net or Gaff:

Consider carrying both a landing net and a gaff, depending on your preference and the size of the Jewfish you're targeting.

A landing net is a gentle way to bring a fish aboard, while a gaff can be used for larger specimens. Ensure you're knowledgeable and skilled in using a gaff to avoid unnecessary harm to the fish.

f. Lip Grips:

Lip grips are handy tools for handling fish safely. They allow you to hold the fish by its lower lip without harming it. Lip grips are particularly useful when removing hooks or taking photographs before releasing the fish.

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g. Hooks - Live Bait Size 6 to 12:

When using live bait, choose hooks in the size range of 6 to 12, depending on the baitfish size. Circle hooks are often preferred, as they are effective at hooking fish in the corner of the mouth, reducing injury to the fish and making catch-and-release easier.

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h. Lures:

For lure fishing, select a variety of soft plastics and swimbaits that mimic the bait
fish found in the area.

Experiment with different sizes and colorsand retrieve techniques to see what works best on that particular day. Make sure to have a range of jigheads to match the weight of your lures to the conditions and depth you're fishing.

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Having the right equipment is crucial for a successful Jewfish angling experience. Properly maintained and well-chosen gear increases your chances of landing these powerful fish and contributes to the safety and well-being of the fish you catch.

Before heading out, ensure your equipment is in top condition, and remember to check local regulations to ensure you're following all the rules and guidelines for Jewfish fishing in your area.

If you have any other  tips or comments, please leave them below.