Plastics technique for deeper reefs

[sunny]

I've recently found some very interesting bits of structure in 20-30m of water and would like to try soft plastics around these spots. #I've only ever used soft plastics in estuaries and around the shallow reefs at Redcliffe, but assume things will be a bit different in deeper water especially if there is a bit of current running.

Anyone got some advice for a newby to deeper water plastics?

I was thinking that 1/4 to 1/2 once jigs with 4-5" plastics would probably be the way to go, but # am not sure about how to go from there. #Do you drift and cast ahead as in shallower water? Do you anchor up and jig straight up and down? #:-?

[baldyhead]

Hi Sunny, I have had success using a Manns 5" Kipper Shad Pearl c/w a 4oz head and 8/0 hook.(make em myself..heads).
I usually fish these @ anchor in plenty of run @ 30 to 50m around bommies etc. I use a TLD 20 + 30lb braid with a short 80lb leader. The trout & reds just love them. On a roughish day I will put the jig about 2m off the bottom and put the rod into a holder...never miss! On a lot of occasions I will get hit on the way down and that can be a mixed bag ie jacks, jobs or even a trevally or two. cheers baldy

[sunny]

Thanks baldy. I'll give that a try next time I go out. but maybe not with 4oz jigs :eek:

[Frank OO]

Hi Sunny,

I have been fishing Soft Plastics for about five years now and specialise in water between 20-100 meters.

I think if you concentrate in making your lure look as natural as possible you will have instant success.

The only anchor I use is a good Sea Anchor to stop the effects of wind.

If you are fishing in 30 meters then you should try to cast ahead (The direction that the boat is moving) to a distance of at least 30 meters.

If you are in a depth of 80 meters then you may not be able to cast ahead by 80 meters so the way to fix that is to cast ahead as far as you can but leave your bail open. By doing this your lure will drop vertically rather than swing down like a pendulem.

The last thig to remember is to use the lightest weight possible but one that will still let you get to the bottom.

Most of my fishing is done around Cape Moreton.

Frank OO