How can I fish for large fish in Hong Kong?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Hong Kong is a surprisingly rich playground for chasing big fish, and as a bass angler you’ll find a lot of transferable tactics here. The key is to match big targets with solid gear, structure-rich spots, and the kind of patient, methodical retrieves that win you trophies anywhere, even in a busy harbour city.

Lead spots in HK include estuary edges and harbours where current crashes against pilings, mangroves, and breakwaters, plus reservoir rims where drop-offs hold warmth and bait. Look for structure that concentrates prey: under piers, around platforms, and along channel edges where tides sweep baitfish past ambush points. The videos below illustrate the vibe: big fish staging near structure and copsing at first light or after dark. Check these for setup ideas:
- Bass Fishing in Hong Kong #3 → [Bass Fishing in Hong Kong #3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X_jrzGWBqI)
- GIANT Catfish on the Fly | Fly Fishing in Hong Kong #2 → [GIANT Catfish on the Fly](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bITHAbHw_2k)
- Best of 2020 | Fishing in Hong Kong → [Best of 2020](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svEtHBy6F48)

Gear up for big fish with robust, long-limb gear. A capable, heavy-duty setup lets you drive big hooks into heavy fighters and reach those deep structure bites:
- [PENN 8' Battle IV Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel Combo](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D156BNH9?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) – a balance of backbone and sensitivity for big estuary species.
- [KastKing Rekon Spinning Fishing Reel Combo 7'6" MH 4000 Reel](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHRS3H39?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) – solid value for deep-water retrieves and heavy loads.
- [PENN 9’ Pursuit IV 2-Piece Fishing Rod and Reel (Size 4000)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096L4FY3H?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) – versatile for reservoirs and coastal zones.

Lure and technique strategy for the big bites:
- Use big swimbaits and hard baits that match large baitfish. In current-prone HK waters, a 4–7 inch soft swimbait with a steady, sometimes slow roll rewind can provoke strikes from lethargic giants resting on structure.
- Try topwater baits at first light on calm days; a big wake bait can provoke explosive takes from surface cruisers right off pilings.
- When you’re targeting catfish or redfish around HK’s urban estuaries, go heavy with line and rod; a long, strong hookset is crucial in thick cover.

Weather and season note (early fall in Hong Kong):
- Current snapshot: clear skies, ~84.6°F (29°C), light wind (~5 mph), humidity ~58%. Water remains warm, which keeps big fish active, especially at dawn and dusk. 
- Weather tip: fish the tail end of the cool of night and the heat of the afternoon lull. Targets tend to gather on drop-offs and structure edges when tides push baitfish by. 
- Weather summary: early fall in HK stays warm and humid with occasional breeze; water temps hover in the upper 20s C, making dawn/dusk sessions your best bet for big fish. Watch for heavy rain or typhoon fronts that can blow off structure shifts and spook wary giants.

Pro tip: practice a slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses to imitate a wounded baitfish. When you feel resistance, braid up and hammer the hookset to drive through heavy cover.

If you want a concrete plan, pair a solid medium-heavy setup with big swimbaits and hit sheltered bays and pier webs at dawn for the best chance at a true HK lunker. And remember—stay patient, stay mobile, and enjoy the urban angling adventure. You’ve got this, and the next cast could be a trophy. 🐟💪

Bass Fishing Questions

More Questions

Where to fish in Singapore?

What is the best color swimbait to use in the St. Lucie River North Fork?

What bait works best at Steven’s Creek Reservoir?

Best shore jigging spots for palamatas and tub ides in sicily?

Question is what's difference between these fly reel sizes?

How can I catch bigger fish using soft plastics?

я ищу оригинальные снасти для ловли именно черноморского калкана

What are the best fishing spots around Spencer, Hawkesbury River for bream?