Mulloway, or jewies, hold a unique allure, especially when captured in the surf. Few species match the thrill of landing a big, chromed mulloway from the crashing waves. While estuarine mulloway are undoubtedly special, there's an unforgettable sight in witnessing a substantial silver flank rolling on the surface in the surf.
Weather and Conditions
Among the various factors influencing mulloway surf fishing, weather and water conditions stand out prominently. Favourable conditions, such as light or offshore winds, medium swell, and clean water, significantly enhance the chances of success. While dirty water might be a cue for mulloway feeding on the east coast, in South Australia, clean water without floating weed or algae blooms seems to yield better results. Furthermore, having some whitewater, especially when there's little or no swell, provides good cover over inshore waters, making the fishing more promising.
Tides
Tides play a crucial role in mulloway surf fishing. While it's possible to catch mulloway during dodge or slow tides, a big high tide offers more water along the fringing gutters. Mulloway are not averse to shallow water, but they tend to avoid areas with stirred-up sand, often associated with shallow waters. Fishing during the building tide, particularly the two hours leading up to high tide, is a preferred window. Whether it's day or night, this period presents an excellent opportunity for bait in the water. Night fishing, in particular, can attract larger fish closer to the shore.
Tackle
Investing in quality tackle is paramount in mulloway surf fishing. The harsh salt-drenched and sand-blasted environment demands equipment that can withstand the rigors of casting and retrieving large baits continuously. Cutting corners in the tackle department is ill-advised. A well-sealed surf reel like a Speedmaster or Ultegra Ci4+ capable of handling 40 to 50lb power pro braid or 15kg mono line is essential. Line capacity of around 300m is recommended to tackle the challenge of a big mulloway taking line out past the back-breaking swell.
My personal preference is fishing with overhead reels in the surf. The Shimano Calcutta 700B is my go-to reel for its casting ease and line capacity. Other options, such as the Saragosa SW 10000 have also yielded good results. Quality equipment is key, and regular maintenance is crucial given the harsh working conditions of surf reels.
In the rod department, a 12 to 13ft rod rated around 15kg is ideal for serious mulloway surf fishing. Anything lighter may compromise casting larger baits and struggle to hold a sinker when facing a strong rip. Rods like the Shimano Speedmaster Surf 13 foot 12-20kg is a reliable choices for surf fishing.
Baits
The importance of sourcing fresh, quality baits cannot be overstated. Mulloway, with their fickle feeding habits, demand baits that are anything but subpar. In preparation for a surf fishing trip, considerable time is spent catching and freezing baits. Squid heads, whole squid, fresh salmon and silver trevally fillets, whole mullet, and herring are top choices. While live baits are the ultimate preference, keeping them alive along a remote surf beach poses its challenges.
Rigs
The rig is often underestimated but plays a significant role in the success of mulloway surf fishing. How the rig is tied or crimped affects how natural the bait sits and looks underwater. Practicality for casting is equally crucial. Personally, I use two snelled 8/0 chemically sharpened octopus pattern hooks underneath a swivel, tied on 80lb supple mono trace line. About 20cm above the first swivel, another swivel is crimped, and between them, a running sinker provides movement to enhance bait presentation.
In conclusion, the pursuit of mulloway is a journey filled with challenges, highs, and lows. Yet, for those who persist, the rewards are undeniably worth it. Mulloway surf fishing is an art, and with the right knowledge, equipment, and patience, the experience of landing a massive mulloway from the surf is truly unmatched.
