Autumn BOOM time!

Yes indeed the need for fish to feed has ramped up a click or two this past week, and the choices are many not just in terms of fish species you can catch but also the methods to enjoy catching them with.

From microjigging and softbaiting the inner shallows and channels in and around the gulf’s islands (lots of anchovies and terns around, Noises, western Rangitoto, northern North Shore Bays, eastern side of Tiri..) to out deeper, the middle ground and beyond.

More aggressive style lures and actions are coming into their own now, slow pitching is really getting the attention of the bigger snapper. Bigger lures with little or no flasher on the assist are in the sights of the big reds, and not just during bite time, more like most of the time.

Increasing the hangtime (the time it takes for the jig to drop) with well-designed and balanced slow pitch jigs really helps attract fish over to you as well as amp them up to strike.

The BOSS is a classic and go-to jig for most slow pitching, also try going longer and bigger with your slow pitch jigs especially if there are kingfish likely to be in the area you’re fishing – something like the Deep V (a personal favourite) and the famous Double Trouble rigged as they come with the hook and leader at the eye end.

These longer slow pitch jigs are specifically designed for an increase in flutter and increased hangtime (slower descent) even though they are generally a much bigger style jig. Or if you prefer softbaiting, send down some BIG softbaits, 7-10inch style on heavier jigheads like a 2 – 6oz Stingaz to get ‘em down faster and use a much more aggressive action to target the bigger more aggressive fish.

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Cheers

Espresso

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This report is supplied by Grant 'Espresso' Bittle from Catch and Wave Dancer Charters.

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For Wave Dancer Charters: Visit www.wavedancer.co.nz

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