How To Catch Australian Salmon

Are you looking to add some excitement to your fishing experience by targeting Australian salmon? If so, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll be covering everything from where to find them, what size and catch limits apply, and everything you need to know about how to catch Australian Salmon. We’ll also provide some tips on what rods, reels and gear you’ll need to bring along with you.

Australian salmon are a highly migratory pelagic species, and they can be caught from both water and land-based locations all year round as they move in large schools. This makes them an accessible target species for anglers of all skill levels and means that there are many different techniques and rigs that you can use when trying to catch these fish.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman, read on for all the information on how to catch Australian salmon today!

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Facts

Australian Salmon Facts

Before we dive in on how to catch Australian salmon, let’s first take the time to understand the species and how they behave.

Scientific Name (Arripis trutta)

With a maximum size of up to 90cm long (3 feet) and 10 kg (22 pounds) in weight, Australian salmon are one of the largest fish species that can be caught from land-based locations. They are highly active and predatory fish, making them an exciting target for anglers looking for a challenge.

Lifecycle and Habitat of Australian Salmon

Australian salmon are recognised to be serial batch spawners. Basically, this means that instead of releasing all their eggs at once, they release batches over a period of time. They also happen to be known as pelagic spawners because these fish give birth in open ocean waters! Once the eggs (1mm) are fertilised, they will drift through the ocean current along with zooplankton before they hatch 40 hours later.

You’ll find adult fish near inshore reefs in bays as well as along coastal beaches nearby. Juvenile Australian salmon prefer sticking to the calmer sheltered waters of estuaries. They prefer cooler waters, and schools of salmon are found in coastal areas along the south coast of Australia, as well as along the coasts of Tasmania, New Zealand and WA’s south coast.

Diet of Australian Salmon

Australian salmon are predatory fish, meaning that they primarily eat other fish. They have a diverse diet that includes both smaller fish, but they also are known to eat crustaceans.

This makes them an ideal target for anglers who are looking to catch a variety of different species. Some of the common prey items that Australian salmon feed on include:

Bream
Herring
Mullet
Carp
Prawns
Crabs

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Legal Size & Limit

Australian Salmon Legal Size & Catch Limit in NSW

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In NSW, there isn’t a legal size for Australian salmon, as shown on the Department Of Primary Industries table on their website. However, In South Australia, the minimum legal length is 21cm, measured from the tip of the fish’s snout to the tip of its tail.

Also, anglers can only keep a maximum of 5 fish per day (bag limit) when fishing for Australian salmon in NSW. So whether you’re targeting salmon from the shore or a boat, make sure to follow all relevant local regulations to protect this important species. Be sure to visit the DPI or relevant regulation website for your locality for laws and guides on how to catch Australian salmon.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Catch & Cook

Eating Qualities

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The average person is familiar with eating Atlantic Salmon from restaurants, but Australian Salmon is entirely different. Surprisingly, Australian salmon don’t have a great reputation for tasting good. But, if you prepare and cook it in the right way – then this fish can be a delicious and healthy addition to your next meal.

I personally find them quite delicious, but I ensure I’m always eating them fresh, and they’re bled out as soon as they’re caught. They have a firm texture and mild taste that makes them perfect for grilling, baking, or even putting into a fish smoker.

Cooking & Eating Tips:

How To Catch Australian Salmon (Arripis trutta) | Land Based Anglers | Land Based Fishing (12)

To best enjoy the delicious flavour of Australian salmon, try grilling them on the barbecue with a bit of olive oil and your favourite seasonings. You can also bake them in the oven with a drizzle of lemon juice and some salt and pepper for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Not only are Australian salmon a fun and exciting species to target when fishing, but they are also delicious to eat! So if you’re looking to add some variety to your seafood recipes, be sure to give this amazing fish a try!

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #1

How To Catch Australian Salmon Land-Based

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There are many different techniques and gear that you can use to catch Australian salmon from land-based locations. Whenever there is a school of baitfish around, there’s likely a school of salmon not far behind. And if you come across a large school, get ready for some intense fishing!

Some of the most popular methods include casting lures or spinners in areas with a strong current, using bait rigs for targeting gutters and depressions along the shoreline and using soft plastics.

Catching Australian salmon from a boat is also highly popular, as these fish are commonly found in coastal waters. Some of the most effective methods on how to catch Australian salmon from a boat include trolling lures or live bait, casting jigs and spoons near big schools of feeding fish, and using soft plastics on drop-shot rigs.

With so many different factors to consider and techniques to try, there are endless possibilities on how to catch Australian salmon. No matter how you choose to target salmon, these amazing fish are sure to provide you with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into how to catch Australian salmon, discuss the best season, correct rods, reels, and tackle to use when targeting Australian Salmon, along with the best baits and lures to use.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #2

What’s The Best Season To Catch Australian Salmon?

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There is no single “best” season for catching Australian salmon, as these fish are found and caught around the coast all year round.

Although different reports claim different things, most experts agree that the best salmon season is from winter to spring, when large schools of baitfish are migrating along the coastline and drawing in hungry predators like Australian salmon.

Australian Salmon Migration Path

One of the key factors that influence where and when you’ll have the best chance of catching Australian salmon is their migration patterns. Depending on their location, these fish can spawn in different areas at different times throughout the year.

Australian salmon are most commonly found on the south coast between the Autumn and Winter months. However, Larger schools tend to migrate to the east and west coasts during the peak of winter in June as the waters are at their coldest.

Overall, it’s important to be aware of the migration patterns for Australian salmon in your area, so that you can time your angling efforts accordingly and have the best chance of success when fishing for these fish. With the correct timing and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to catching one of Australia’s most prized sport fish!

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #3

Where Can You Catch Australian Salmon?

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Australian salmon can be found in large schools all around the Australian coast, with some of their most popular habitats including:

along the shoreline in coastal waters
estuaries
shallow bays
reefs or other structures
rocky headlands
beach areas
river mouths
and offshore waters.

To increase your chances of success when fishing for these fish, you’ll want to target areas that have a strong current, tide or good water flow. These areas are more likely to attract a school of baitfish and, as a result, a school of salmon in search of their next feed.

The best time to go fishing is generally one or two hours before and after high tide, when the water is moving.

If you’re targeting Australian salmon from the shore, look for locations that provide plenty of structure for feeding fish, as these can often attract schools of baitfish.

Look for dark patches in the water. These dark patches can be deceiving and usually look like seaweed, but they could be schools of salmon. In order to see fish better, it is helpful to invest in a quality pair of polarized sunglasses.

You’ll also want to make sure that you’re heading out during the right season, as this will help you to find the best concentrations of hungry Australian salmon.

With so many great fishing locations around Australia’s coastline, there are plenty of opportunities to catch Australian salmon from land or a boat. Whether you’re targeting these fish from shore or offshore, always remember to follow all relevant regulations and take care when handling and releasing fish so that you can continue to enjoy a successful and sustainable fishing experience.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #4

Best Australian Salmon Fishing Spots in Sydney NSW

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If you’re looking to catch Australian salmon in Sydney, some of the best spots where they’re commonly caught include:

Little Bay, 2036 – Off the coastal rocks, or beach
Malabar Beach, 2036
Marouda, 2035 – near Jack Vanny Reserve
Tamarama, 2026 – Off the beach or rocky headland in proximity
Botany Bay,
Cronulla beach, 2230
Bundeena, 2230
Middle Harbour
And most other surf beaches

Australian salmon are commonly caught on most of the northern or eastern beaches, making them a popular target for anglers fishing from the shore. Each of the areas listed above is known for its abundance of baitfish, which attracts large numbers of hungry Australian salmon within casting reach of the waves.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #5

What’s The Best Rod To Catch Australian Salmon?

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When fishing for Australian salmon, there are a few different rod options that can help you to be successful. One of the most popular choices is a light spinning rod, which allows you to cast your baits or lures long distances and provides enough sensitivity to detect bites when fishing in shallow waters. Other good choices include medium-heavy baitcasting rods, which are great for those anglers casting large lures or baits and can handle heavier line weights.

Best Beach Rod To Catch Australian Salmon

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If you’re targeting Australian salmon from the beach, a medium-action surf rod can be an excellent choice. These rods are typically longer in length and allow you to cast your baits or lures far out over the crashing waves of the surf while still providing enough sensitivity to detect even small bites. Other features to look for in a surf rod include guides that are spaced farther apart so that you can easily handle larger line weights, as well as stronger tips and blanks, which allow you to pull in bigger fish through the waves without too much risk of breaking your rod.

These are our suggestions for the best surf rods on the market:

PENN Prevail II 1002SPMH Spinning Surf Rod 10ft 8-15kg 2pc
PENN Spinfisher SSM Surf Spinning Rod 13ft 8-12kg 3pc
PENN Pursuit 12023H Spinning Surf Rod 12ft 8-15kg 2pc
Shimao Revolution
Daiwa Sensor Sandstorm Surf Rod

Best Beach Rod Length For Catching Salmon

The length of your fishing rod matters when you’re trying to catch Australian salmon from the beach or surf. A longer rod, typically measuring 10-15 feet in length, will allow you to cast further and place your baits or lures closer to where fish are likely to be. However, it’s also important to choose a rod that is light and balanced so that you can easily handle it in the surf, especially when fighting larger fish as you don’t want your rid tip to break.

Best Beach Rod Kilo Capacity For Catching Salmon

When fishing for Australian salmon from the beach or surf, it’s essential to choose a rod with enough strength and power to handle medium to large fish. For example, a light 5-kilo-capacity rod will be able to easily handle fish weighing up to 5 kilograms, while a 10-kilo-capacity rod will be better suited to handling even larger fish and less likely to break your tip.

For catching Australian salmon on the beach, we suggest:

a light 5-10kg rated rod or,
a medium 8-12kg rated rod

Overall, there are many different rod options out there that can help you to be successful when fishing for Australian salmon. Whether these species are fished for from shore or offshore, you must always remember to use gear that is properly matched to the conditions so that you can enjoy an enjoyable and productive fishing experience.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #6

What’s The Best Reel To Catch Australian Salmon?

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When learning how to catch Australian salmon, there are many different reel options to choose from. Some of the most popular choices include spinning reels and baitcasting reels, which are designed to be lightweight and easy to use. When choosing a reel for Australian salmon fishing, it’s essential to select one that is durable and can handle the stresses of fighting larger fish while also providing enough line capacity to hold heavy line weights.

Best Size Spinning Reel For Catching Australian Salmon

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The size of your fishing reel will depend on a few different factors, including the casting distance that you need, how far you plan to fish offshore, and the weight of the fish that you plan to catch. For example, if you’re targeting smaller salmon in shallow waters, a small or medium-sized reel will be sufficient, while if you’re hoping to target larger fish, a heavier reel may be required.

If you’re looking for the best reel to use when fishing for Australian salmon, we recommend a spinning reel in the 4000-6000 size range with a 6:1 gear ratio, which allows you for a high speed retrieve of the line without too much effort.

These reels are lightweight and easy to use, yet can still handle the stresses of fighting larger fish. Other features to look for in a spinning reel include a smooth drag system, a long line capacity, and durable and corrosion-resistant materials. When choosing a spinning reel for salmon fishing, it’s also essential to verify that it is correctly matched with your rod so that you can enjoy a smooth and responsive casting experience.

Some of our top reels picks for catching Australian salmon include:

For more information, you can read our comprehensive guide on the best beach fishing reels.

Overall, there are many different reels on the market today that can help you to be successful when fishing for Australian salmon. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or casting your line from shore, choosing the right reel is an essential part of ensuring a successful fishing trip. With the right gear and some good fishing techniques, learning how to catch Australian salmon will be a breeze. So why wait? Head out to the water and start reeling in some delicious Australian salmon today!

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #7

What’s The Best Line To Catch Australian Salmon?

When learning how to catch Australian salmon, one of the most important factors to consider is the type and weight of your line. There are many different line options out there, ranging from braided lines to monofilament and fluorocarbon. The best type of line to use for Australian salmon fishing will depend on several different factors, including the fishing conditions and your personal preferences. Some of the most important factors to consider include the weight of your line, its sensitivity, and how easy it is to cast.

Braided Line

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One of the most popular options for Australian salmon fishing is braided line, which performs well in both freshwater and saltwater. This type of line is extremely strong and durable, allowing you to handle the large and powerful fish that you’ll encounter when fishing for salmon. In addition, braided line is highly sensitive, allowing you to detect even the subtlest bites and strikes. Though braid is durable, you’ll still need to add a fluorocarbon or mono leader to the end of your line for more abrasion resistance, shock absorption and greater invisibility.

Here are some of our favourite braids to use when fishing for Australian salmon:

Monofilament & Fluorocarbon Line

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Another popular option for salmon fishing is monofilament line, which offers excellent abrasion resistance and durability at an affordable price. However, one disadvantage of monofilament line is that it can be more difficult to cast compared to braid line. Fluorocarbon fishing line is another great option for anglers looking to improve their sensitivity and reduce visibility.

If you’re looking to fish for Australian salmon, here are some of our top-choice monofilament and fluorocarbon lines:

Line Rating

When choosing a braided line for salmon fishing, it’s important to consider the “line rating.” This number is typically between 40 and 120 lbs and is an indicator of the maximum tension that the line can handle. The higher this number, the stronger and more durable your line will be, making it a good option if you’re fishing in rougher waters or planning to target larger fish. However, keep in mind that heavier lines may be more difficult to cast and will require a heavier fishing rod.

If you’re looking for the best line rating for Australian salmon fishing, we recommend using a braided line in the 7-15kg range. This line will provide you with the strength and durability that you need to succeed while still maintaining sensitivity so that you can enjoy a smooth casting experience.

Ultimately, the best line to use when learning how to catch Australian salmon will depend on your individual preferences, fishing conditions, and budget. However, in general, braided line is a great choice for salmon fishing due to its strength and sensitivity.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #8

What Are The Best Rigs To Catch Australian Salmon?

When fishing for Australian salmon, there are several different rigs that can be used depending on the conditions and your target fish size. A couple of the most popular rig options for Australian salmon include:

Paternoster Rig,
Running Sinker Rig

Paternoster Rig

The paternoster rig is an excellent choice for targeting larger salmon, as it allows the angler to present baits at varying depths. This rig works by attaching two dropper loops, with one hook (or gang-hooks) at the end of each loop and a star sinker at the bottom of the rig. Star sinkers help keep your line and baits grounded, so they don’t get crushed by incoming waves.

Paternoster rigs can also be modified to allow the angler to employ two different-sized hooks at the same time, allowing for experimentation to see what works best.

Paternoster Rig | How To Catch Australian Salmon (Arripis trutta) | Land Based Anglers | Land Based Fishing (5)

Running Sinker Rig

The rig consists of a sinker threaded onto the mainline above a swivel. The sinker can then move up or down along the main line freely, depending on the depth of your target fish and current conditions. A length of trace line then leads down to a hook or gang-hooks. The trace line will move independently to the sinker.

When choosing a rig for salmon fishing, it’s important to consider factors such as water depth, current, and target fish size. Overall, the best rigs for catching Australian salmon will vary depending on your individual preferences and fishing conditions. However, in general, the paternoster rig and running sinker rig are both excellent options for targeting these great fish.

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #9

What Are The Best Baits to Catch Australian Salmon?

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There is no one “best bait” for catching Australian salmon, as different anglers often have their own favourite baits based on personal experience and fishing conditions. Some popular bait choices for Australian salmon fishing include:

shrimp,
mullet,
pilchards,
sandworms
bluebait,
pipis
whitebait
prawns
garfish
herring
and squid.

When choosing a bait fishing to catch salmon, it’s important to consider factors such as the size, type, and freshness of your bait. In general, many anglers find that live baits such as shrimp, beach worms and squid are especially effective in attracting Australian salmon. However, other baits, such as fillets of dead baits or artificial lures, can also work well in the right conditions.

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Ultimately, the best bait to catch salmon will depend on your individual preferences, target fish size, and fishing conditions. However, in general, there are many great bait options to choose from when targeting these prized fish. With the right gear, techniques, and bait, you can successfully land some big Australian salmon and enjoy a great day out on the water!

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Tip #10

What Are The Best Lures To Catch Australian Salmon?

How To Catch Australian Salmon With Lures

When it comes to lure fishing for Australian salmon, there are many different options to choose from. Some of the most popular lures to catch salmon include:

Metal lures or spoons
Hard-bodied lures,
Soft plastics,
Diving minnow-style lures,
and Poppers.

How To Catch Australian Salmon With Metal Lures or Spoon

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Salmon fishing with metal spoons as lures is a great idea because they come in many colours and sizes. All spoons weigh 20 to 60 grams, so you’ll be able to cast them far. If you want to use a spoon lure while salmon fishing, aim to cast your lure as far away as possible before using a consistent medium-paced retrieval; this will grab the attention of fish that are more willing to attack.

If you’re looking to switch up your fishing lures, here are a few metal ones to try:

How To Catch Australian Salmon With hard-bodies Lures

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Hard-bodied lures are another great option for anglers targeting Australian salmon. These lures are usually made from plastic or wood, and they can be designed to look like a range of different prey, including baitfish and squid. These lures can range in size and style from small surface lures to big heavy diving lures. When using hard-bodies lures for salmon fishing, you can use a slow and steady retrieval or a fast and erratic retrieve to mimic the movement of struggling prey.

Here are a few hard-bodied lures that have proven to be effective:

How To Catch Australian Salmon With Soft plastic Lures

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Another great option for targeting Australian salmon is using soft plastic lures. These lures are typically made from a soft and pliable material, such as rubber or plastic, which can be formed into different shapes. One of the key benefits of using soft plastics when learning how to catch Australian salmon is that they come in many different colours, sizes, and styles, which makes them a versatile choice for fishing in different conditions and targeting different types of fish.

Soft plastics are often used by salmon anglers looking for more natural bait presentations, as these lures are designed to imitate live shrimp and other small fish. When using soft plastics for salmon fishing, try to use a jighead or weighted hook that will help your lure sink deeper into the water column and draw the attention of larger fish.

These soft plastic lures have been known to be successful:

Diving Minnow Lures For Australian Salmon

Diving minnow lures are also commonly used by anglers targeting Australian salmon. These hard-bodied lures typically have a narrow and streamlined shape, with a plunging swimming action that draws the attention of fish. As with many other types of fishing lures, diving minnow lures come in a wide range of shapes, colours, and sizes. The key advantage of using diving minnow lures for salmon fishing is that they can be successfully fished at different depths, making them a versatile choice for targeting fish in deep water or shallow water. When using this type of lure, be sure to experiment with different retrieval speeds and techniques until you find the combination that works best for you.

The following diving lures are worth a try:

Popper Lures For Australian Salmon

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Another great lure option for anglers targeting Australian salmon is surf popper lures. These fishing lures are designed to create a unique popping sound and surface disturbance that mimics the movements of struggling prey. Popper lures are usually made from hard plastic, but they can also be constructed from wood. In general, popper lures are floating, and designed for greater casting distance. As you become more familiar with using popper lures, you can also experiment with different types of retrieves and motions to see if they help to increase your success rate.

The following Popper lures are definitely worth a try:

How To Catch Australian Salmon – Final Thoughts

Conclusion

Now that you know a little more about how to catch Australian salmon and what type of gear and techniques work best for catching them, it’s time to put this information into practice. Get out there and start exploring some of their habitats – you’re sure to have an incredible fishing trip.

And don’t forget to let us know how you go! We love hearing stories (and seeing pictures) of people putting our tips and advice into action.

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How to Catch Australian Salmon | #1 Ultimate Guide