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How to Rig for Blue Cod

Parapercis colias

Blue cod are a New Zealand endemic that live on rocky reef and broken ground, mostly around the South Island, Marlborough Sounds, and Stewart Island. They are curious and aggressive, and a bait held just off the bottom over reef usually draws bites fast. Circle hooks help release undersized fish unharmed. Rules differ by area and some fisheries have special closures or limits.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Dropshot Rig
Best bait
Squid, pilchard, or fresh fish bait held just off the bottom over reef and foul ground
Where
boat, kayak
Typical size
10–20 in
Season
Caught all year around the South Island and lower North Island, with many anglers targeting them in summer. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.
Realistic Dropshot Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Dropshot Rig

intermediateboat · kayak

The hook ties above the weight rather than below it, holding bait at a fixed height off bottom. Precise and finesse-oriented, well suited to structure fishing from a kayak or jetty.

  • Main line8-12 lb fluorocarbon or braid
  • LeaderSame line, palomar-tied hook, no separate leader
  • Leader lengthHook tied 12-18in above the weight on the main line
  • Hooks1/0 - 4/0 circle hook
  • WeightSinker 4 - 12oz depending on depth
  • Line to sinker12-18in from hook down to weight, fixed distance
  • BaitSquid, pilchard, or fresh fish bait held just off the bottom over reef and foul ground
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Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
Fish-Finder Rig
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance.
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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 ↗Fisheries New Zealand ↗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 Blue Cod?

The Dropshot Rig is the top recommendation for Blue Cod. The hook ties above the weight rather than below it, holding bait at a fixed height off bottom. Precise and finesse-oriented, well suited to structure fishing from a kayak or jetty.

What bait works for Blue Cod?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Blue Cod.

When is the best time to catch Blue Cod?

Caught all year around the South Island and lower North Island, with many anglers targeting them in summer. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.. Typical size runs 10–20 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Blue Cod?

Blue Cod is caught while boat, kayak fishing. Blue cod are a New Zealand endemic that live on rocky reef and broken ground, mostly around the South Island, Marlborough Sounds, and Stewart Island. They are curious and aggressive, and a bait held just off the bottom over reef usually draws bites fast. Circle hooks help release undersized fish unharmed. Rules differ by area and some fisheries have special closures or limits.