How to Catch Bonito: 13 Amazing Tips from Master Anglers

Today, we’re going to dive into the thrilling world of bonito fishing. If you’ve been looking for a new challenge or just want to catch these swift and feisty fish, you’re in the right place.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know to catch bonito, including facts about this fish, legal size and catch limits, eating quality, and where to find them. We’ll also provide tips for catching bonito from the land and the best fishing spots in Sydney, NSW. And, of course, we’ll cover the equipment and techniques you need to succeed, including the best rods, reels, line, rigs, baits, and lures.

Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner looking to catch your first bonito, this guide has everything you need to know to make your next fishing trip a success. So let’s dive in and discover how to catch bonito like a pro!



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How To Catch Bonito - LandBasedAnglers (9)

How to Catch Bonito – Tip #1

Bonito Facts

If you’re looking to catch Bonito, knowing a few cool facts about this fish is helpful. Here are some interesting details about Bonito:

1. Scientific Name

There are several species of Bonito, including:

  1. Atlantic Bonito (Sarda Sarda): Found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
  2. Pacific Bonito (Sarda Chiliensis): Found in the Pacific Ocean along the coasts of North and South America.
  3. Eastern Pacific Bonito (Sarda Lineolata): Found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
  4. Australian Bonito (Sarda Australis): Found in the waters around Australia and New Zealand.

The genus name, Sarda, comes from the Greek word “Sarda,” which means a type of Mediterranean fish. The species name, Sarda, refers to this fish being part of the same genus as the sardine (Sardina pilchardus).

Sarda Sarda belongs to the family Scombridae, which includes other fish such as tuna and mackerel. It is a pelagic fish, which means it lives and feeds in the open ocean rather than near the sea floor.

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2. Characteristics

Bonito are a fascinating group of fish that share several distinctive traits, making them easily recognizable to seasoned anglers. Here’s a quick overview of their key characteristics:

  1. Size and appearance: Bonito are medium-sized fish, typically ranging from 18 to 30 inches (45 to 76 cm) in length and weighing between 5 and 12 pounds (2 to 5.5 kg). Their streamlined bodies are built for speed, allowing them to zip through the water easily.
  2. Colouration and patterns: One of the most striking features of bonito is their dark, oblique stripes running across their backs. These markings, combined with their metallic blue or greenish-blue colour on top and silver-white bellies, make them a sight to behold.
  3. Swift swimmers: Bonito are known for their incredible swimming speed and agility, making them formidable predators in the open ocean. Their powerful, torpedo-shaped bodies and strong, forked tails enable them to reach impressive speeds in pursuit of prey.
  4. Feisty fighters: For anglers, bonito are prized for their spirited fight when hooked. They’re known to leap, dive, and make rapid runs, making for a thrilling and challenging catch.

These characteristics make bonito unique and captivating, adding to the excitement of targeting them on your fishing adventures. Their impressive speed, striking appearance, and feisty nature make them a favourite among anglers worldwide.

Pelican Point - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

3. Habitat

Bonito, like other members of the mackerel family, are pelagic fish that primarily inhabit the open ocean. They tend to favour warm and temperate waters, but their specific habitats can vary depending on the species. In general, here’s what you need to know about bonito habitat:

  1. Surface dwellers: Bonito are often found near the surface of the water, making them more accessible to anglers. They feed on smaller fish and cephalopods that frequent the ocean’s upper layers.
  2. Coastal proximity: While bonito are known to venture into deeper waters, they usually stay relatively close to shorelines. This means you can often find them near reefs, rocky shorelines, and areas with underwater structures that attract their prey.
  3. Temperature preferences: Bonito are more abundant in warmer waters, and their distribution tends to be influenced by ocean currents and water temperatures. They may migrate seasonally to follow their preferred temperature range, so keep an eye on local conditions when planning your fishing trip.
  4. Schooling behaviour: Bonito are social fish that form schools, making it easier for anglers to locate and target them. When you find one bonito, there’s a good chance there are more nearby.

Understanding the habitat preferences of bonito will not only help you pinpoint the best locations for your fishing trip but also improve your chances of a successful catch. With this knowledge in mind, you can confidently set off on your bonito fishing adventure, knowing you’re in the right place at the right time.

4. Distribution

Bonito are found in different parts of the world, each species having its preferred habitat. The distribution of the Atlantic bonito is influenced by water temperature, as it prefers warm waters with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C. It migrates seasonally, moving northward in the summer and southward in the winter in response to changes in water temperature.

Overall, the Atlantic bonito is a highly migratory species that can be found in a wide range of oceanic habitats throughout the Atlantic Ocean. It is an important commercial and recreational fish in many parts of the world, with sustainable fisheries in place to ensure its conservation.

No matter which part of the world you find yourself in, there’s a good chance that you can track down bonito in nearby waters. Just remember that they prefer warmer temperatures and tend to stay near the surface and close to shorelines, making them accessible to anglers with boats or even from shore in some cases.

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5. Diet

The Atlantic bonito is a predatory fish that feeds primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. Its diet consists mainly of anchovies, sardines, and other small pelagic fish, which it hunts by using its sharp, pointed teeth to grab and swallow its prey whole.

Bonito fish are known for their voracious appetite and can eat up to 25% of their body weight in a single day. They are active feeders, often pursuing their prey in fast, agile bursts of speed. They can be found feeding at the surface of the water or at deeper depths depending on the location and the availability of food.

Bonito fish are also opportunistic feeders and will eat a wide range of prey items if their preferred prey is not available. This includes other small fish species, squid, and crustaceans such as krill, shrimp, and crabs.

Overall, the Atlantic bonito’s diet is primarily composed of small pelagic fish and crustaceans. Its predatory nature and voracious appetite make it an important link in the oceanic food chain, serving as a food source for larger predatory fish, marine mammals, and seabirds.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #2

Bonito Legal Size & Catch Limit in NSW

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Before you start fishing for bonito in Sydney, knowing the legal size and catch limits is important. These regulations are put in place to ensure the fishery’s sustainability and protect the bonito population.

Size and Catch Limit

There is no minimum legal length requirement for catching bonito in NSW, but there is a recreational bag limit of 10 bonito per person per day. This means that while there is no restriction on the size of bonito that can be caught, recreational fishers are limited to catching a maximum of 10 bonito per day.

The bag limit is in place to ensure the sustainability of the fishery and to prevent overfishing of the species. It is important for recreational fishers to follow bag limits and other fishing regulations in order to maintain healthy fish populations and preserve the fishery for future generations.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #3

What’s the Eating Quality of Bonito? 

Bonito

Bonito is a popular fish among anglers, not just for its sport but also for its taste. It has a firm texture and a meaty flavour, often compared to tuna. While some anglers may choose to release their catch, bonito is a delicious fish that can be enjoyed when cooked properly.

Taste and Flavour

Bonito has a unique flavour profile that sets it apart from other fish. Its meat is dark, moderately fatty, and has a firm texture. The taste can be described as bold and slightly gamey, with a hint of richness reminiscent of tuna. When cooked correctly, the flavour becomes milder and more palatable, making it a popular choice for various dishes.

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Best Cooking Methods

Choosing the right cooking method is essential to get the most out of your Bonito. Here are a few tried-and-true techniques for preparing this tasty fish:

  1. Grilling: Grilling Bonito enhances its flavour and adds a smoky touch. Marinate the fish beforehand to keep it moist and tender during grilling.
  2. Sashimi: For those who enjoy raw fish, Bonito makes for delicious sashimi. Simply slice the fresh, high-quality fillets and serve them with soy sauce and wasabi.
  3. Pan-searing: Pan-searing Bonito fillets create a delicious crust while retaining the fish’s tenderness. Make sure to use a hot pan and cook for only a few minutes on each side.
  4. Broiling: Place seasoned Bonito fillets under a broiler to create a flavorful, caramelized exterior. Keep a close eye on the fish to prevent overcooking.

Health Benefits

Bonito not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients that provide numerous health benefits:

  1. Omega-3 fatty acids: Bonito is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.
  2. Protein: Bonito is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
  3. Vitamins and minerals: This fish contains essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, selenium, and potassium, which help support the immune system and overall health.
  4. Low in mercury: Bonito has lower mercury levels than other large fish species, making it a safer option for regular consumption.

In conclusion, Bonito is a delicious and nutritious choice for those who enjoy bold flavours and various cooking methods. Give this versatile fish a try, and you might just discover your new favourite seafood dish.

Now that we know bonito’s eating quality, let’s move on to how to catch it, starting with land-based fishing.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #4

How To Catch Land-Based Bonito 

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Catching land-based Bonito in Australia can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some essential tips and advice to increase your chances of success:

  1. Location: Choose popular land-based fishing spots such as rocky headlands, jetties, or piers which Bonito are known to frequent.
  2. Timing: Bonito are often more active during the early morning or late afternoon. Fishing during the changing tides, particularly the rising tide, can also be advantageous.
  3. Bait: Bonito are attracted to live or fresh baits like pilchards, garfish, or squid. Try slow-trolling or drifting the bait in the current for a more realistic presentation.
  4. Lures: Bonito are fast swimmers and are enticed by fast-moving lures. Opt for metal slices, small stickbaits, or poppers, and retrieve them quickly to imitate fleeing baitfish.
  5. Fishing gear: Use a medium-weight spinning rod with a 7-10 kg line rating and a 4000-5000 size reel. A 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader will help avoid bite-offs from their sharp teeth.
  6. Technique: Cast your lure or bait beyond the breaking waves and into the deeper water. Retrieve quickly and continuously, making sure to cover a wide area in search of feeding Bonito.
  7. Berley: To attract Bonito closer to shore, use a berley mixture containing fish scraps, pellets, or tuna oil. This can be especially effective when fishing from rocky outcrops or piers.

Following these tips and practising patience will increase your chances of catching land-based Bonito in Australia.

Now that we’ve covered land-based fishing for bonito, let’s move on to where they are commonly found.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #5

Where Are Bonito Commonly Found?

Putty Beach 2 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

To catch bonito, it’s important to find the right fishing spot. Here’s how to identify a good fishing spot and where to look for bonito:

Importance of Finding the Right Spot

Bonito are a pelagic species that can be found throughout the waters of Australia. However, they tend to concentrate on certain areas and can be elusive at times. To increase your chances of catching bonito, finding the right spot is important.

A good fishing spot for bonito will have a lot of baitfish, which is what they like to feed on. Bonito are often found in areas with a lot of structure, such as reefs, drop-offs, and rock formations.

Best Locations or Environment Types

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Bonito can be found in a variety of locations, including coastal waters, bays, harbours, and offshore reefs. They prefer temperatures between 16-20°C and are often found in depths ranging from 5-50m.

Bonito are often associated with schools of other pelagic species, such as mackerel and tuna. Look for areas with a lot of bird activity, as they often feed on the same baitfish as bonito.

Best Places to Find Bonito

Some of the best places to find bonito in Sydney are along the coast, particularly around headlands and rock platforms. Some popular fishing spots for bonito include Long Reef, North Head, and Wedding Cake Island. Offshore reefs and bommies can also be productive areas to target bonito.

Now that you know where to look for bonito, let’s move on to the best time of year to catch them.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #6

Best Bonito Fishing Spots in Sydney, NSW

Little Beach - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW
  1. Long Reef: Long Reef is a great location for land-based fishing, with plenty of spots along the beach and headland where you can target bonito. You can use lures or bait to catch bonito from the rocks or sand.
  2. Maroubra Beach: Maroubra Beach is another excellent spot for land-based bonito fishing, with plenty of gutters and channels along the beach where the fish like to feed. You can use lures or bait to catch bonito from the shore or rocks.
  3. North Head: North Head in Manly is a popular land-based fishing location with a variety of fish species including bonito. You can fish from the rocks or the beach and use lures or bait to catch bonito.
  4. Bondi Beach: Bondi Beach is a popular tourist destination and a great spot for land-based bonito fishing. You can fish from the beach or the rocks and use lures or bait to target bonito.

Remember to always check the local fishing regulations before heading out to any of these locations, and ensure that you have the necessary fishing licenses and equipment.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #7

What’s The Best Season To Catch Bonito?

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Seasonal Patterns:

The best season for catching Bonito in Australia can vary depending on the location. In general, Bonito are more active and abundant during the warmer months of the year when water temperatures are higher. In Sydney, the best season for catching Bonito is typically from late summer to early autumn (around February to April), when the water temperature is at its warmest. During this time, schools of Bonito can be found in Sydney’s waters, making it an excellent time for anglers to target them.

Best Time of Day:

Bonito are known to be most active during the early morning and late afternoon when they feed more aggressively and are more likely to take bait or lures. As such, anglers should plan their fishing trips accordingly to maximize their chances of catching Bonito. Fishing during these times can increase your chances of success, particularly in abundant Bonito areas.

Best Tide:

Bonito can be caught on both incoming and outgoing tides, but many anglers find that Bonito are more active and easier to catch during the high tide. High tide, especially when it coincides with the early morning or late afternoon feeding times, is often considered the best time to target Bonito. 

However, it’s important to consider the conditions of the area you’re fishing, as some spots may be more productive on certain tides or during different times of the day. Anglers should also pay attention to the tidal charts to help plan their fishing trips and identify the best times to fish for Bonito.

Overall, by taking into account the seasonal patterns, the best time of day, and the best tide to catch Bonito, anglers can increase their chances of success and have a more productive fishing experience. Catching Bonito can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for any angler with the right conditions, gear, and technique.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #8

What’s The Best Rod To Catch Bonito?

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When it comes to fishing for Bonito, having the right rod can make all the difference. Bonito are known for their speed and agility, making them a challenging and exciting catch for anglers. To successfully hook and reel in a Bonito, it’s important to have a rod that is suitable for the job. 

In this section, we’ll explore the various factors to consider when choosing the best rod for catching Bonito, including length, action, power, and rating. We’ll also provide recommendations for some of the top rods on the market that are well-suited for this type of fishing. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, read on to learn more about the best rods for catching Bonito.

Rod length:

When it comes to Bonito fishing, choosing the right rod length is crucial. A rod that is too short can make it difficult to cast far enough to reach the fish, while a rod that is too long can be cumbersome and difficult to control. The ideal rod length for Bonito fishing is typically between 8-9 feet. This length allows for good casting distance and control while also providing enough leverage and power to fight a Bonito.

In addition to the length of the rod, anglers should also consider the type of fishing they plan to do. A longer rod might be preferable for land-based fishing to achieve greater casting distance and cover more water. On the other hand, if you’re fishing from a boat or kayak, a slightly shorter rod may be more suitable for better maneuverability and handling in confined spaces.

Rod action and power:

Shimano Saragosa Review - Shimano Saragosa SW Reel 10

Another important consideration when selecting a rod for Bonito fishing is the action and power of the rod. A medium to fast action rod with a medium power rating is recommended for Bonito fishing. This type of rod provides a good balance between flexibility and sensitivity while still having enough power to handle the strength and speed of a Bonito.

Ultimately, it’s essential to find a rod that feels comfortable and suits your specific fishing style and situation. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different rod lengths, actions, and power ratings until you find the perfect fit for your Bonito fishing adventures.

Rod rating:

The rod rating is another important consideration when selecting a rod for Bonito fishing. The rating refers to the strength and weight of the line that the rod is designed to handle. A rod with a higher rating can handle heavier lines and larger fish, while a lower rating is better suited for lighter lines and smaller fish.

For Bonito fishing, a rod rating in the 2-6 kg range is recommended. This balances strength and sensitivity, allowing anglers to use various lines depending on their preference and fishing conditions.

How To Catch Carp - Shimano Sojourn

Our recommended rods for How to Catch Bonito:

There are several rods that are well-suited for Bonito fishing, including the Shimano Terez Spinning Rod, Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod, and Daiwa Saltist Inshore Spinning Rod.

  • Shimano Stimula Rod – This is known for its high sensitivity and strength, making it an excellent choice for catching Bonito. It is made from a high-quality graphite material and features Shimano’s innovative CI4+ construction, which provides excellent power and sensitivity without sacrificing durability.
  • Penn Battalion Surf Spinning Rod – This is another excellent option for Bonito fishing. This rod features a fast action and medium power rating, making it ideal for catching Bonito. Made from high-quality graphite, it is designed to provide excellent sensitivity and control, even when casting long distances.
  • Daiwa Saltist Inshore Spinning Rod – This is a great choice for anglers who want a lightweight and versatile rod for Bonito fishing. It features a fast action and medium-heavy power rating, making it well-suited for catching Bonito. Made from high-quality graphite, it features a comfortable EVA handle for all-day fishing comfort.

Overall, selecting the right rod for Bonito fishing is essential for success on the water. By considering factors such as rod length, action and power, and rating, anglers can choose a rod that is well-suited for



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #9

What’s The Best Reel To Catch Bonito?

Penn Slammer 3

Selecting the right spinning reel for catching Bonito can greatly improve your angling experience. Here are a few key features to consider and some top recommendations to help you make an informed choice:

  1. Size: Opt for a spinning reel in the 4000-5000 size range. This size is suitable for handling the line capacity and drag necessary to tackle the energetic runs of Bonito.
  2. Drag System: A smooth and reliable drag system is essential for controlling powerful Bonito. Look for reels with a minimum of 10-15 lbs (5-7 kg) drag capacity to effectively fight the fish without risking line breakage.
  3. Ball Bearings: More ball bearings typically result in smoother reel operation. Aim for a reel with at least 4-6 quality ball bearings to ensure smooth line retrieval and casting performance.
  4. Gear Ratio: A higher gear ratio (5.2:1 to 6.2:1) is beneficial for quicker line retrieval, enabling you to keep up with the fast swimming Bonito and efficiently work your lures.
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Top spinning reel recommendations for catching Bonito:

  1. Shimano Stradic (4000-5000): This reel boasts a sturdy construction, excellent drag system, and smooth performance, making it a popular choice among anglers targeting Bonito.
  2. Penn Slammer III (4000-5000): With its durable design, strong drag system, and high line capacity, the Penn Slammer III offers reliability and power when chasing Bonito.
  3. Daiwa BG (4000-5000): The Daiwa BG is well-regarded for its durability, smoothness, and affordability, making it an excellent option for those targeting Bonito on a budget.

Remember, the best spinning reel for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Take the time to research and test various reels to find the one that suits your Bonito fishing needs.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #10

What’s The Best Line To Catch Bonito?

Daiwa J-Fluoro Fluorocarbon Leader 5 - Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

The fishing line is a critical component of your fishing gear, and selecting the right one is essential for a successful catch. The fishing line you choose for Bonito should be strong, durable, and have a small diameter to prevent detection. 

In this section, we will discuss the three main types of fishing lines, monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braid, and help you choose the best one for catching Bonito.

Monofilament Line: 

KastKing World's Premium Monofilament Fishing Line - Best Mono Fishing Line

Monofilament is a popular fishing line choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike. It’s a single-strand nylon line that’s inexpensive, easy to handle, and has some stretch to it. 

The Monofilament line is ideal for Bonito fishing as it can handle the Bonito’s sharp teeth and fast runs. Additionally, the line’s stretch can act as a shock absorber, which can help prevent the line from breaking when Bonito is fighting.

Here are our recommended monofilament lines for catching Bonito:

Fluorocarbon Line: 

Sunshine Fishing Fluorocarbon Leader 4 - Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

Fluorocarbon is a popular choice for experienced anglers as it’s a bit more expensive than monofilament but has excellent abrasion resistance and is nearly invisible underwater. The Fluorocarbon line is perfect for catching Bonito as it’s tough enough to handle Bonito’s sharp teeth and quick movements, and its near-invisibility can improve your chances of a catch.

Here are our recommended fluorocarbon lines for catching Bonito:

Braid Line: 

SeaKnight W8 8 Strands Braided Lines 3 - Best Braided Fishing Line

Braid is popular for anglers who want to feel the slightest bite and have complete control over their catch. It’s a thin, strong, and sensitive line that has no stretch, making it ideal for catching Bonito, which requires fast reactions. Braid line is perfect for Bonito fishing as it can handle the Bonito’s sharp teeth and fast runs, and its sensitivity can detect even the slightest bite.

Here are our recommended braid lines for catching Bonito:



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #11

What’s The Best Rig To Catch Bonito?

Flasher Rig

The Flasher Rig consists of 2-4 hooks with flashy materials, imitating small baitfish. To set it up:

  1. Use a pre-made Flasher Rig or create your own with hooks (size 2-4) and a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader.
  2. Attach a sinker for weight and depth control.
  3. Connect the rig to your mainline using a swivel or clip.
  4. Cast and retrieve with a slow, lifelike motion to attract Bonito.

The Flasher Rig’s baitfish imitation makes it an excellent choice for catching Bonito. Try this versatile rig for a successful fishing experience.

Paternoster Rig: 

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

The paternoster rig is another popular choice for catching Bonito. The rig consists of two or more hooks, which are spaced out along the leader line. The hooks are baited with small pieces of fish or squid. The paternoster rig is designed to present the bait at different depths in the water, which increases the chances of catching a Bonito.

To make a paternoster rig, start by tying a swivel onto the end of the main line. Tie a length of the leader line onto the other end of the swivel, and then tie two or more hooks onto the leader line, spacing them out evenly. Bait the hooks with small pieces of fish or squid, and then drop the rig into the water.



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #12

What Are The Best Baits to Catch Bonito?

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When it comes to fishing for Bonito, using the right bait can be the difference between a successful catch and going home empty-handed. Bonito is known to be a fast and aggressive fish, so the bait needs to be enticing enough to catch their attention. The best baits for Bonito are usually natural baits that mimic their prey. These baits are typically small and silver or green, which is similar to the colour of the Bonito’s natural prey.

Let’s take a look at some of the top choices:

  1. Pilchards: Also known as sardines, pilchards are a favourite among Bonito due to their oily, strong scent. You can use them whole, cut into chunks, or as butterflied bait.
  2. Garfish: These slender, small fish are a common prey item for Bonito. Rig them whole using a ganged-hook setup to present them effectively.
  3. Squid: Bonito are known to enjoy squid, making it a popular bait option. Use small whole squid or strips to entice bites.
  4. Anchovies: Another oily baitfish, anchovies are great for Bonito fishing. They can be used whole or as part of a berley mixture to attract the fish.

These natural baits can make all the difference when targeting Bonito. However, using artificial lures can also be highly effective. In the next section, we’ll explore the best lures to use for catching Bonito, so stay tuned!



How to Catch Bonito – Tip #13

What Are The Best Lures To Catch Bonito?

How To Catch Bonito - LandBasedAnglers (6)

Using artificial lures is an exciting and effective way to target Bonito. Here, we’ll explore different types of lures that work best for these fast-swimming fish and discuss why they are great for targeting Bonito:

Metal Lures

Metal Lures | LandBasedAnglers.com

Metal lures, like spoons and metal slices, are perfect for imitating small baitfish and can be retrieved at high speeds, which appeals to the fast-predatory nature of Bonito. Their shiny, reflective finish mimics the flash of fleeing baitfish, triggering an aggressive response. Some top choices include:

  1. Acme Kastmaster Lure with Bucktail Teaser
  2. Proberos Metal Spoon Fishing Lures 
  3. OriGlam Metal Spoon Fishing Lures 
  4. Sougayilang Metal Spoon Fishing Lures

Soft Plastic Lures

Soft Plastic Lures | LandBasedAnglers.com

Soft plastic lures offer a lifelike swimming action that Bonito find irresistible. Their soft texture mimics the feel of real prey, increasing the likelihood of a committed strike. Rig them on a jig head or weighted hook for the best results. Popular options are:

  1. Jig Head Soft Plastic Lures
  2. Berkley Gulp! Alive! Swimming Mullet 12.5 OZ Bucket, 4-Inch
  3. Berkley Gulp! Grubs
  4. Z-MAN MinnowZ 3-inch Soft Plastic Paddle Tail Swimbait

Hard Body Lures

Hard Body Lures | LandBasedAnglers.com

Hard body lures are ideal for a variety of retrieval speeds and can mimic injured baitfish effectively. Their built-in rattles or diving lips create vibrations and movement patterns that attract predatory fish like Bonito. Choose minnow-style or diving lures, such as:

  1. Rapala X-Rap Saltwater Fishing Lure
  2. Yo-Zuri Crystal 3D Minnow Floating Lure
  3. Shimano SP Orca FB Sinking Fishing Lures
  4. Rapala X-Rap Jointed Shad 13 Fishing Lures

Surface Lures

Popper Lures | LandBasedAnglers.com

Surface lures, like stickbaits and poppers, create a commotion on the water’s surface, attracting Bonito from below. This surface disturbance mimics fleeing or injured baitfish, tapping into the hunting instincts of Bonito and provoking them to strike. Try these options:

  1. Yo-Zuri R1154-CFF Bull Pop Floating Lure
  2. Halco Roosta Popper H Rp
  3. Ansari 2pc Saltwater Fishing Popper Lure

Experiment with various lure types to discover which works best for your Bonito fishing conditions. Remember, retrieval speed and presentation are key factors in successfully enticing these fast and aggressive predators.



How to Catch Bonito – Final Thoughts

Conclusion

How To Catch Bonito - LandBasedAnglers (9)

In conclusion, catching Bonito can be an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers in Australia. We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of how to catch Bonito and the best techniques, baits, rigs, and gear you need to use. Remember, always follow the fishing regulations in your area to protect the sustainability of the species and the environment.

Whether you prefer land-based or boat fishing, Sydney and other coastal areas in Australia offer excellent opportunities to catch Bonito. By choosing the right location, gear, and bait, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

So, grab your fishing gear and head out to your nearest fishing spot to catch this high-speed and hard-fighting fish. We wish you good luck and tight lines!



How to Catch Bonito – FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions


What’s the best season to catch Bonito in Australia?

The best season to catch Bonito is during the warmer months from November to April.


What’s the best bait to use for Bonito?

The best natural baits to use for Bonito are pilchards, garfish, and slimy mackerel.


What’s the best lure to use for Bonito?

The best lures to use for Bonito are metal lures, soft plastics, and small hard-body lures.


What’s the best time of day to catch Bonito?

The best time to catch Bonito is during the early morning or late afternoon.


What’s the best tide to catch Bonito?

The best time to catch Bonito is during the incoming or outgoing tide.


What pound test line should I use for Bonito?

A 15-20 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon line is suitable for catching Bonito.


What’s the bag limit for Bonito in Australia?

The bag limit for Bonito in New South Wales is 20 fish per person per day.


Can Bonito be eaten?

Yes, Bonito can be eaten and is considered a good table fish. It has a firm texture and a mild, sweet flavor.


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William O’Reilly is an Australian land-based fishing enthusiast. He discovered his passion for fishing from the shore as a child, when his grandfather would take him out on the water and teach him the ropes.

He encourages others to try land-based fishing and believes it is a unique and sustainable way to connect with nature. He also advocates for responsible fishing practices and conservation. His passion for land-based fishing led him to pursue a career in writing about it, sharing his experiences, knowledge and thoughts about the sport, and inspiring others to appreciate and explore it.

William O’Reilly

Contributing Author



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