Using the right tackle

There is a right and wrong tackle to be used while fishing the Great Barrier Reef area. Depending on the type of fishing you want to do, from the shore, from a boat, or under the water you’ll need to know the right fishing tackle to use.

While fishing for those monster Marlin that will weigh out at 1000 pounds plus you’ll need to use what is known as heavy tackle. The heavy tackle season is from late September to December when the Marlin migrates to the Great Barrier Reef.

Wahoo, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Spanish mackerel and Tiger as well as Bronze Whaler sharks are fished with the light tackle. This is 80 to 130 pound tackle with 12, 16 and 20 class outfits. There is also the small black marlin in the 50 to 150 pound class that will need the lighter fishing tackle.

If you want to fish right on the reef there is tackle and lures that is needed. You can toss out a top water plug with the light tackle and catch Trevally and Barracuda. The bottom fish species, coral trout, red emperor are caught with this tackle with bait or jigs as well.

The fishing charter you pick and book will have what you will need to fish with. It’s best to talk with the skipper or guide, tell them what you’re interest in fishing for so they will have the type of tackle you’ll need to catch the fish you have dreamed of catching. They will be more than willing to help with all your fishing tackle need. Do some research so you’ll be well informed and understand the charters boat’s crew when you discuss your fishing trip that you have wanted to do. Enjoy catching the “big one”!