At FNSF-NOMAD, we use heavy overhead and spin set-ups to target large pelagic fish along reef edges and entrances and at times out in open blue water off the shelf. We usually put out a spread of lures at various lengths behind the boat, also covering various depths as required.

Things can get very busy very quickly when multiple lines go off, requiring team work and calmness from all on board. Most pelagic fish will travel in groups and the sight of one fish suddenly escaping with a prize will excite the others to light up and chase anything in sight.

Most lures are designed to mimic a fast moving or injured fish and there are a range of designs that we use depending on the species of fish being targeted. Guides quite often use a variety of lures in the spread to give predatory fish a choice of colour, size and depth. The use of teasers and a long surface lure out the back might compliment the standard spread of divers behind the wash.

Blue water trolling speed will vary with fish species being targeted and also the weather and fishing conditions at the time. Generally, this falls in a range of between 5-10 knots and provides enough comfort to relax and watch rods in the holders, ready for the carnage to unfold.

TARGETED FISH SPECIES

We target a range of sizeable pelagic fish including Spanish Mackerel, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Giant Trevally, Sailfish and Dogtooth Tuna.

TYPICAL LOCATIONS

We find trolling produces the best results around shoals, reef points and edges, rocks and bommies, reef entrances and along contour lines around the shelf. When charters are accessing the east coast along the Barrier Reef, multiple opportunities exist for blue water trolling every day.

OUR TACKLE

FNSF-NOMAD use top of the line Shimano rods, reels and terminal tackle. We provide the following setup for blue water trolling:

Reel: Shimano Talica 2 Speed 16
Rod: Shimano Tag-Em 5' 7 24kg Runner Tip 
Line: 24kg mono; 120lb leader