Flathead species are found all around Australia and are accessible to anglers of all experience levels. They are an excellent fish to target this summer.

Bait fishing is effective, but bearing in mind flathead are an ambush predator, lures can cover more ground and often attract bigger fish. Soft plastic lures are a popular choice for flathead anglers and are an easy and fun way to catch more flathead.

Try fishing open weedy areas in shallow bays and flats for smaller eating-size fish. Bigger fish can be found in areas subject to more tidal movement. Remember that large breeding fish are the future of the species, so handle and release them carefully. A large landing net* will make that task much easier and protect your hands from the many spikes on flathead.

Flathead soft plastic lure set-up

Rod: Rovex Air Strike* 601SPX, 1.8m, 2-4kg
Reel: RovexAureus* AU1 1500/2500
Line: Rovex Air Strike Braid* 8lb
Leader: Rovex Fluorocarbon Leader* 20lb or 30lb, depending on average size of fish in the area
Lure: 3-inch Tsunami Soft Plastic Shad – Rigged* (it’s ready to fish, right out of the packet!)

Estuary flathead bait fishing set-up
Rod: Jarvis Walker Tuff Tip* CT 6602 TLM, 2m, 3-6kg
Reel: Jarvis Walker Powereel* 2000
Line: RovexAureus Monofilament* Lo-Viz Green 9.7lb
Leader: Rovex Fluorocarbon Leader* 20lb or 30lb, depending on average size of fish in the area
Hook: Tsunami Baitkeeper* Red Size 1
Sinker: Jarvis Walker Bean Sinker*, size choice determined by depth and prevailing current/tidal movement