how do i target snapper on both soft plastics and on bait (squid)? what rig do i use? I am fishing in mordialloc pier in february

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Targeting snapper around Mordialloc Pier in February: two solid approaches—soft plastics and squid bait—and the rigs that pair best with each**

First, a quick season note: February is warm and productive around Port Phillip Bay, especially around pylons. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime; keep an eye on wind and current, as strong tides can pull your plastics or bait away from the structure. Now, your two mains options:

**1) Soft plastics rig (good for covering the pylons with predictable action)**
- Rig: cast-and-retrieve with a weighted jig head on a straight hook setup, or go light with a Texas/Carolina vibe for snag-free bottom work.
- Recommended gear:
  - Jig head: 1/8–1/4 oz for shallow sections; 1/4–3/8 oz if current is ripping or water is deeper near pylons.
  - Soft plastic: 2.5–3.5 inch paddle-tail or grub (pink, white, or glow/chartreuse work well).
  - Leader/Main line: 6–12 lb braid mainline with a 12–20 lb fluorocarbon leader to resist snagging on pylons and to handle the bite.
  - Rod/reel: 7’0”–7’6” medium-fast rod, 2500–3000 size reel with 6–10 lb braid.
- How to fish it:
  - Target the pylons and drop-offs a few metres from the structure.
  - Cast near the base and work the lure with short, sharp lifts, then a slow winding retrieve to mimic a fleeing baitfish.
  - Keep the lure close to the bottom; snapper loves a little bottom contact and occasional pauses.
- Practical tips:
  - Use steady, moderate retrieves; add a couple of hops and a pause to provoke bites.
  - Use bright plastics and a bit of scent (optional) to enhance bites in clear water.
  - If you see follow-ups but no grabs, switch color or size, or adjust the jig head weight to keep the lure on the bottom longer.

**2) Squid bait rig (classic, effective, and seasonal favorite)**
- Rig: running sinker (sliding) rig with a circle hook and a short leader; use fresh or thawed squid tentacles as the bait.
- Recommended gear:
  - Sinker: 20–60 g sliding ball or bean sinker depending on current.
  - Leader: 40–60 cm of 20–30 lb fluorocarbon to resist abrasion from pylons.
  - Hook: circle hook size 2/0–3/0 (to reduce gut hooks); use a strong knot and a swivel+bead between the sinker and leader.
  - Main line: 8–15 lb braid for sensitivity and feel around structure.
- How to fish it:
  - Cast toward the pylons and allow the bait to sink to the bottom, then gently lift-tause the bait along the bottom with the rod tip.
  - Maintain contact with the bottom; snapper will inhale the bait when it’s sitting in the strike zone near the pylons.
- Practical tips:
  - Fresh squid is best; if using frozen, thaw and rinse to reduce odors that attract unwanted species.
  - Keep your line tight during the bite to avoid missed takes; snapper often take quickly and move away with the bait.
  - If you’re getting nibbles and no solid hookup, switch to a slightly heavier sinker or adjust the leader length to keep the bait in the strike zone longer.

**Gear picks and learning videos (real fishing content):**
- [Snapper fishing in Australia 🇦🇺 Port Phillip Bay](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2b29qSSPg0s)
- [Port Phillip Bay Snapper Melbourne Mayhem #reedysrigs #snapper](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yJmbrwyDr0)

**Tackle options you can check out (fishing-related picks):**
- [FONMANG 126Pcs Fishing Lures - 2025 Tackle Box with Tackle Included](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTH8MXB4?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax – segmented, lifelike swimbait](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Rapala Bass Boom Box – curated bass lure kit for predatory fish](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSJQV65C?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Swimbait/Lure variety options to cover both plastics and live-bait tactics](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J4CR24K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

**Quick checklist for the session**
- Target times: dawn, late afternoon, and tides that push water along the pylons.
- Depth near pylons: 3–6 m is common in the bay; adjust jig heads accordingly.
- Show patience at first; snapper often commit after an inquiry bite.

Keep your line tight and your wit dry, and you’ll be stacking snaps in no time. Tight lines and great angling ahead! 🌊🎣

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🎣 Mordialloc Pier, Port Phillip Bay, Victoria, Australia