Tailor fishing on K’gari – Fraser Island can be productive throughout the entire year. However, there are certain times of year when the chances of a successful catch of tailor are higher than others. The best time to go fishing for tailor on K’gari – Fraser Island is from May to September, which is regarded as their peak season.
During these months, the water temperature drops, and the tailor come closer to the shore to feed. Making it much easier to catch them. This period also coincides with the annual tailor migration. When large schools of tailor swim up and down the east coast of Australia. As a result, you’re more likely to catch larger fish during this time.
It’s also worth noting that tailor fishing can be weather-dependent, especially if fishing from the beach. Ideally, you want to go beach fishing when the winds are low. The sea is relatively calm, as this makes it easier to spot and cast to feeding fish. You should also consider fishing during prime bite times. These being the early morning or late afternoon, as this is when the fish are most active.
Finally, it’s essential to research the local regulations and restrictions before fishing on K’gari – Fraser Island. As there may be specific rules regarding the size and number of fish you can catch. Fisheries Queensland provides information on bag limits and size limits for tailor fishing in the area.
Tailor Fishing
There are a couple of effective methods for catching tailor on K’gari – Fraser Island, including:
- Beach / Surf Fishing: Tailor are known to swim close to the shore. Particularly around rocky outcrops and gutters. Making surf fishing a popular and effective method. Use a 9-10ft rod with a medium to fast action, a large spinning reel, and 10-15kg line. Popular baits for tailor include pilchards, mullet, pipis and worms.
- Lure Fishing: Tailor can also be caught using lures, particularly metal slugs and poppers. These lures mimic the movement of small baitfish and can attract the attention of feeding tailor. Cast your lure into the surf and retrieve it at a fast pace, with occasional pauses and jerks to imitate the movement of a fleeing baitfish.
Regardless of your chosen fishing method. It’s important to use the right equipment, rigs and bait. Below are a couple of proven examples.
Beach / Surf Fishing
Using a paternoster rig is popular for catching tailor:
When casting, it’s important to try and get your bait into the deeper water where the tailor are likely to be feeding. Allow the rig to sink to the bottom before very slowly retrieving it. Pausing periodically to allow the bait to settle and attract the fish. When a fish takes the bait, don’t strike immediately, allow it to run before setting the hook firmly and hopefully reeling in your catch.
Running Ball Sinker Rig
Another popular fishing rig to use is the running ball sinker rig:
- Before tying the mainline to a swivel. Attach a running ball sinker to the mainline which will sit above the swivel. The weight of the sinker will depend on the conditions and the weight of the bait.
- Tie the mainline to a swivel.
- Tie a length of leader (approximately 60-80cm) to the other end of the swivel.
- Tie a hook (size 3/0-5/0) to the end of the leader.
- Bait the hook with your preferred fresh bait.
When using a running ball sinker rig, some people prefer to have the running sinker below the swivel. Effectively allowing it to run between the swivel and the hook. We have had success using both methods and tend to prefer the later. When the sinker runs between the swivel and hook.
Beach Jigging
Beach jigging is a popular technique and perhaps our favourite method for catching tailor from the shore. It involves casting and retrieving small metal jigs in the surf zone, where the tailor are feeding on baitfish. We are particularly fond of using the JigPara Micro range for this task and have a lot of success with these micro jigs.
Here’s how to set up a beach jigging rig for catching tailor:
- Choose a rod and reel combo with a medium to fast action, capable of casting lures in the 15-40 gram range.
- Attach a quality braided line with a breaking strain of at least 20 pounds to the reel.
- Tie on a metal jig, weighing between 15-40 grams, to the end of the line using a loop knot or improved clinch knot.
- Cast the jig out into the surf zone, allowing it to sink to the bottom.
- Once the jig hits the bottom, retrieve it quickly with short, sharp jerks to mimic the movement of a fleeing baitfish. Vary the speed and retrieve pattern until you find what works best.
- Be prepared for the tailor to hit the jig hard and fast.
Beach jigging can be a fun and effective way to catch tailor from the shore, especially when the fish are feeding on baitfish close to the beach.
Gutter Fishing
A gutter is a deep channel that forms between sandbanks on the beach. It is often characterized by a deeper section of water, which can be a few meters deep. A gutter is generally bordered by shallow sandbanks on either side. Gutters are created by the action of waves breaking on the sandbanks, which erode the sand and create a deeper channel in the process.
Gutters are excellent fishing spots, particularly for tailor. They provide a natural funnel for baitfish and other prey, making them attractive feeding grounds for predatory fish. Tailor often swim along the edges of gutters, waiting for schools of baitfish to swim by, before launching an attack.
When fishing in gutters, it’s important to be aware of the tides, as gutters can change in depth and shape depending on the tide. Fishing during low tide, when the water is shallow, may not be as effective as fishing during high tide when the water is deeper and the gutters are more defined. It’s also important to exercise caution when fishing in gutters. As the water can be deep and the currents strong, so always be aware of your surroundings and never fish alone.
Cooking Your Fish – Recipes
Tailor are a versatile fish that can be prepared and cooked in a variety of ways. Regardless of the cooking method, it’s important to ensure the fish is fresh and properly cleaned before cooking. Remove the scales and gut the fish, removing any internal organs. Rinse the fish preferably in salt water and pat dry before cooking.
Here are a few popular cooking methods:
- Grilled Tailor: Season the fish with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and grill the fish for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Baked Tailor: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the seasoned fish in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
- Fried Tailor: Season the fish with salt and pepper. Dip the fish in beaten egg and coat with breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Smoked Tailor: Brine the fish in a salt and sugar mixture for 2-3 hours. Rinse the fish and pat dry. Smoke the fish in a smoker for 1-2 hours or until cooked through.
Accommodation on K’gari – Fraser Island
K’gari – Fraser Island offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from camping and cabins to luxury resorts. Here are a few recommendations for accommodation on K’gari – Fraser Island:
- K’gari Beach Resort: This resort is located on the eastern side of Fraser Island and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotel rooms and apartments. The resort has a restaurant, bar, and convenience store, as well as access to a range of activities, including fishing and 4WD tours.
- Fraser Island Retreat: This peaceful retreat is located on the eastern side of K’gari – Fraser Island in the hamlet of Happy Valley. The retreat has a restaurant and bar, as well as access to a range of activities.
- Camping: K’gari – Fraser Island has several designated camping areas, including Cathedrals, Dundubara and Orchid Beach. These camping areas offer basic facilities, including toilets and showers, and are located in picturesque locations.
Regardless of the accommodation option you choose, it’s important to book in advance, particularly during peak season, to ensure availability.