November 01, 2024
It’s here! Downrigger season for both kingfish and Spanish mackerel:

Why? Because the East Australian Current is on the move early this summer already. Kings and macks riding the current south. Huge kings are in Sydney already. A spearo’s already taken a 1.4 metre 30 kilo one at Bondi
But the real confirmation for us here at Downrigger Shop is the number of downriggers we’re shipping out every week. It’s been pretty crazy

Not familiar with them? Pretty simple idea. The downrigger has a lead weight which can be lowered to any depth. Your bait or lure is attached to a drop back off the weight by a release clip or a rubber band. Here’s a drawing showing the basic system:

Note that our downrigger goes straight into your rod holder? They’re a deadly fishing tool but when you’re not using them you don’t want them in the way. Ours can be quickly cleared off the gunwhale if you’re on the live bait grounds, or coming into the boat ramp pontoon:

Another big benefit of our model is that it uses carbontex drag washers. This means that if you hook up your weight on a reef the drag will give out line. Simply give your rod a quick jerk to break clear of the release. Then reverse the boat back down while steadily winding the downrigger. There's every chance the weight will come free:

So what can I expect if I get one of your downriggers Andy?Well going on the pics new owners send to me you can pretty count on some big fish coming aboard. Check these out. Michael Weynton with a good king:

Matt Milanos at Coffs Harbour:

Josh Davey with a cracker SA king - which was released:

Beautiful mack for Derek Dixon:

Like to know more? Click the blue button below - or call / email me anytime. Thanks for reading
Andrew Hestelow
August 03, 2026
Two Sydney offshore sessions targeting kingfish with live yellowtail and heavy knife jigs, including fish to one metre, sharks and an amberjack.
April 07, 2026
TUESDAY! Wanted to downrig small live bonito around Long Reef for a stud kingfish. Our purple trolling lures accepted the challenge:
February 06, 2026
Regular readers of this little newsletter know of my fascination for cobia:
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