How to Catch Coral Trout on Stickbaits

By Josh Cheong

Coral trout, known for their vibrant colours and elusive nature are highly sought after by anglers right across the Northern parts of Australia. Prized for not only for their aggressive temperament and great fighting abilities they are also incredible eating if you’re looking for a fish to take home for a feed.

There are several coral trout species that inhabit the waters of Australia, Bar-cheek, Common, Blue-spot & Passionfruit. This article will focus on my experiences with the Bar-cheek and Common coral trout in North West WA, however similar techniques will be able to be employed across all species throughout Australia, just adjust gear size to suit the location and species you intend on targeting.

These prized fish can be caught on a wide range of fishing styles, with jigging, trolling and bait fishing taking their fair share of the catch, however for me stick-baiting has to be my favourite way to target these fish. Not only due to the often visual and explosive nature of the bite but also due to its effectiveness.

In this article, we'll explore the art of stick-baiting for coral trout, covering the essential gear, techniques, and tips to maximize your success.

Gear Essentials

1. Rod and Reel Setup: Selecting the right rod and reel is crucial for stick-baiting success. A PE 3-5 spin setup will cover most of the fish you will encounter. Rods in the range of 7 to 8 feet with a moderate to fast action are ideal. Paired with a high-speed spinning reel loaded with quality braided line (PE3-5), This setup provides the sensitivity and strength needed for the task. My current combo of choice is the Spartan 73 2/3 and a Certate SW 6000H Spooled with 300m of PE 4 J-Braid Expedition. If you’re fishing in areas where you are likely to encounter larger species such as GT or Māori Wrasse, I would recommend fishing a slightly heavier outfit like the Spartan 74 4/6 and a Certate SW 8000H and perhaps a line rated PE 5 or 6.

2. Lures and techniques: Stick baits typically come in various sizes and colours. Choose models with a realistic finish and a seductive action in the water. Don’t be afraid to throw a big presentation either, Coral trout are very aggressive and will not hesitate to hit a large lure when in the mood to feed. I have had most luck on floating stick baits, I’m not sure if it’s the disturbance they cause on the surface or the erratic action and bubble trail but the trout can’t seem to resist them. Lures such as the Saltiga Rough Ride 140 and 160 are perfect lures to throw as they cast a mile and are easy to work in a variety of conditions.

3. Terminal Tackle: Utilize a strong and reliable leader material, such as Saltiga X Link in the range of 50-80 lb test. I have found the 70lb the perfect combination of abrasion resistance whist still maintaining the action of a variety of lures. Coral trout will head straight for cover as soon as they are hooked and will often end up back in a cave or rubbing you along a reefs edge if you are not quick enough to turn their head. Utilising a quality leader material will allow some leeway if the fish does find its way back and may just be the difference between losing your catch and extracting it. Connect the leader to the mainline using a strong and reliable knot,An FG knot whist a little daunting to tie for some will give you the best connection between your braid and heavy leader material. I use a quick snap for easy change of lures throughout the day and they are a great idea if this fishing style is new to you or you are fishing a new area, as you can change up lures often without shortening your leader. Just make sure they are rated for the line class that you are fishing.   

Techniques for Stickbaiting

1. Where: Coral trout can be found in a variety of habitat, from offshore reefs to inshore islands. To find the best water for stick baiting look for water2-5m deep over areas with a lot of structure in the form of bommies or ledges, coral trout love to hide and ambush their prey so finding an area with a lot of structure will ensure your lures are in the zone. When fishing these areas look for where the current will channel or funnels through. Finding a bommie on the edge of this will be a prime locations as the coral trout to sit and wait for attack. 

2. Casting Accuracy: As mentioned, coral trout are often found lurking in and around coral bommies and structures. Cast your stick bait accurately close to these structures, allowing it to swim enticingly through the trout's territory. Precision casting increases your chances of enticing a strike. If casting at a bommie, try cast to the front, or sides instead of over it. A trouts reaction time is incredible and if casting over shallow structure, the fish will often eat your lure and run for cover before you have had a chance to pick up the slack. By fishing the sides and front of the structure, you will have a better chance of muscling the fish out and avoid running your line over the sharp coral covered reefs.

3. Retrieve Variations: Experiment with different retrieval techniques to find what triggers the coral trout. My standard technique is to sweep the rod and allow the lure to swim with its erratic movements followed by a short a pause between sweeps helps to mimic a wounded fish, enticing the trout to strike during the vulnerable moment. I have experienced some days on the water where a burning retrieve across the surface has gained more attention than the traditional sweep and pause technique, so it pays to mix it up and see what is working best on the day.

4. Depth Control:Adjust the depth at which you work the stick bait based on the coral trout's behaviour. If they are aggressively feeding, they will not hesitate to hit a lure near or on the surface, this is where a floating stick bait excels. Conversely, if they are deeper and not quite as switched on, you may find a sinking stick bait with a slower retrieve may be enough to encourage a territorial bite rather than one for food.

Tips for Success

1. Study Local Conditions: Understanding the local environment, tides, and weather patterns is crucial for successful stick-baiting. Coral trout behaviour can be influenced by these factors, and being in tune with them will improve your chances. A lot of this can only be achieved with time on the water, however asking a local anglers for a few tips on specific areas will help shorten your learning phase considerably.

2. Be Patient: Stick-baiting for coral trout requires patience. You will often encounter a host of other species whilst targeting coral trout, while some are desirable like the spangled emperor, you may have to ‘weed through’ others, either way a bit of action helps break up the day. Spend time observing the water, noting any signs of fish activity, and be persistent. Sometimes, it takes a while to locate the trout and figure out their preferences.

3. Safety First: Fishing in coral-rich environments poses risks to both the anglers, boats and the ecosystem. Be aware of where you are fishing and the structure around you, if you notice your boat drifting towards a bommie, try and get out of the way before it makes contact. Maintaining the health of our reefs will preserve the delicate balance of the underwater habitat and ensure there is plenty of coral trout for the future.

Conclusion

Stick-baiting for coral trout is an exhilarating and rewarding pursuit for anglers seeking a challenge in tropical waters. Armed with the right gear, techniques, and local knowledge, you can increase your chances of hooking into these stunning and elusive predators. Enjoy the adventure, respect the environment, and savour the thrill of stick-baiting for coral trout.