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How to Rig for Mulloway (Jewfish)

Argyrosomus japonicus

Mulloway are big, bronze croakers that hunt deep estuary holes, bridge pylons, and beach gutters along southern and eastern Australia, and they feed best at night around the tide changes. Fresh squid or live bait on a running sinker rig is the standard approach, and patience is part of the game. They are closely related to the white seabass of California and the kob of South Africa.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Fresh squid, whole pilchard, tailor fillet, or a live mullet on bottom in deep holes and surf gutters
Where
surf, jetty, boat, pier
Typical size
24–50 in
Season
Caught all year, with the best surf and estuary fishing from late spring to autumn, often after rain. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnersurf · pier · jetty · boat

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks5/0 - 8/0 circle or two ganged hooks
  • WeightRunning sinker, 2 - 6oz
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitFresh squid, whole pilchard, tailor fillet, or a live mullet on bottom in deep holes and surf gutters
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Realistic Carolina Rig fishing rig setup
Carolina Rig
A long leader trails behind a sliding weight, letting soft plastics or cut bait drift naturally near structure.
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Main lineLeader3-5 linked hooksthrough a whole pilchard or garfish
Ganged Hook Rig
Three to five hooks are linked in a chain, each point passing through the eye of the next, and the whole gang runs the length of a pilchard or garfish.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗State and territory fisheries agencies ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Mulloway (Jewfish)?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for Mulloway (Jewfish). The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for Mulloway (Jewfish)?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Mulloway (Jewfish).

When is the best time to catch Mulloway (Jewfish)?

Caught all year, with the best surf and estuary fishing from late spring to autumn, often after rain. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.. Typical size runs 24–50 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Mulloway (Jewfish)?

Mulloway (Jewfish) is caught while surf, jetty, boat, pier fishing. Mulloway are big, bronze croakers that hunt deep estuary holes, bridge pylons, and beach gutters along southern and eastern Australia, and they feed best at night around the tide changes. Fresh squid or live bait on a running sinker rig is the standard approach, and patience is part of the game. They are closely related to the white seabass of California and the kob of South Africa.