Fishing gear setup

Techniques

Gear Guide

23 recommended setups for WA boat fishing. Filter by technique or target species.

How to use this guide

Each setup is a starting point - adjust to your conditions and preferences. The outfits are grouped by technique, from entry-level trolling to heavy popping for trophy GTs.

Filter by technique using the tabs, or search by species to find setups suitable for your target fish. Click any card for full specifications including rod, reel, line, and leader recommendations.

Learn the techniques

Got the gear? Now learn how to use it. Check out our detailed technique guides:

Trolling Guide → Jigging Guide → Live Baiting Guide → Casting Guide →

Gear Selection Tips

Rod Selection

Match rod rating to your target species. Lighter rods (2-6kg) for estuary and nearshore. Medium (6-15kg) for general reef and pelagics. Heavy (15kg+) for GTs, big tuna, and game fish.

Tip: Rod length affects casting distance and leverage. Shorter rods (5-6') give more power for jigging, longer rods (7-8') for casting and beach work.

⚙️ Reel Selection

Spinning reels are versatile and easier to use. Conventional (overhead) reels offer more power and line capacity for heavy applications.

Tip: Reel size should match rod rating. A 4000-size spinner suits 4-8kg rods. For heavy jigging and popping, you'll want 10000+ size reels.

🧵 Line Selection

Braid for sensitivity, no stretch, and thinner diameter. Essential for jigging and casting. Mono for trolling (stretch absorbs strikes) and budget setups.

PE ratings: PE1 ≈ 10lb, PE2 ≈ 20lb, PE4 ≈ 40lb, PE6 ≈ 60lb, PE8 ≈ 80lb

Leader Selection

Fluorocarbon is invisible underwater - use for wary fish and clear water. Mono is cheaper and has stretch. Wire is essential for toothy species like mackerel and sharks.

Tip: Leader length matters. Shorter (1m) for heavy structure, longer (2-3m) for clear water and wary fish.

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