GT Fishing Lures | MoTackle & Outdoors

Targeting Giant Trevally (GT) using lures can be an exciting and challenging experience for anglers. Below are some tips to help improve your chances of success when targeting these brutes of the ocean:

Trip planning - There are some crucial steps you should take before planning a trip of battling with GT’s. A lot of time, effort and money goes into targeting these fish but it can all be worth the reward if a few simple steps are taken at the start to help you gain the upper hand on these fish.

Research: Start by researching the best locations for giant trevally fishing. GT's are found in tropical and subtropical waters, primarily in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Some renowned GT fishing destinations include the Seychelles, Maldives, Hawaii, Fiji, Australia, and various parts of Southeast Asia. Before your trip, study local fishing reports, talk to local anglers or fishing guides, and check online forums to gather information about recent GT catches, productive lure types, and ideal fishing spots

Season and Weather: GT behaviour can be influenced by seasonal changes and weather conditions. In some areas, GT's may be more active during specific seasons. Additionally, factors like water temperature, wind direction, and tides can impact their feeding patterns. Gather information about the best time of year to target GT's in your chosen location.

Local Knowledge: Seek advice from local anglers, fishing guides, or charters who have experience with GT fishing in the area. They can provide valuable insights on where to find GT's, what lures are working well, and the most productive fishing spots.

TARGETING GT's

Gear and Tackle - Fishing for giant trevally requires robust gear capable of handling their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Here's a suggested setup:

Rods: Use a heavy-duty spinning rod, preferably around 7 to 9 feet in length, with a fast or extra-fast action. The rod should be rated for at least 50-80lb line.

Reels: Opt for a high-quality reel with a smooth drag system and a high line capacity. A reel with a large drag rating will help knock these fish over before they bust you off in the reef.

Line: Choose a strong braided line with a minimum test strength of 50-80lb. Braided lines offer sensitivity and strength, which is essential when dealing with powerful fish like GTs.

Leader: Attach a heavy fluorocarbon or monofilament leader to the braided line. A 80-150lb leader is recommended to withstand the GTs' sharp teeth and abrasion from rocks and coral.

Andrew Iveli - Warehouse Receiving at Motackle & Outdoors

Lure Selection - Selecting the right lures is crucial when targeting giant trevally. GT's are opportunistic predators that feed on various prey, such as small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. The key is to match the local forage. Some effective lure types include:

Poppers: These topwater lures create splashes and loud "popping" sounds when retrieved correctly. Choose poppers with a concave or cupped face to attract GTs from below the surface.

Stickbaits: Long, slender stickbaits imitate fleeing baitfish and can be worked with a twitching motion to mimic injured prey. Choosing a higher-end stickbait will result in a lure that is able to withstand catching multiple fish. This is mainly due to the fact that these lures are ‘through-wired’.

Peter Keep - Gamefishing & Rod Building Specialist at Motackle & Outdoors

Techniques - Once you're on the water, practice these techniques to attract GT's:

Topwater action: With poppers, use a "pop and pause" method. Make a loud pop with the rod tip, then pause briefly to simulate a struggling or injured fish. Repeat this action throughout the retrieve.

Stickbait retrieval: Use a combination of short twitches and pauses during the retrieve. The erratic movement can trigger aggressive strikes.

Location and Timing - Giant trevally prefer areas with strong currents and structure. Look for reefs, drop-offs, underwater pinnacles, submerged rocks, and areas with baitfish activity. As for timing, GT's are most active during low light conditions, such as early mornings and late afternoons. Fishing around tide changes can also be productive.

Be patient and observant - Catching GT's with lures can be challenging, and success might not come immediately. Be patient and observant, watching for signs of feeding activity such as splashes or diving seabirds.

Handling and Release - When you successfully land a GT, handle it with care to minimise stress and injury to the fish. Wet your hands before touching the fish, and support its body properly when lifting it for photos. If you don't plan to keep the fish, practice catch and release to conserve these valuable predators. Tight lines! - Matthew McEwan