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How to Rig for John Dory

Zeus faber

John dory are thin, deep-bodied fish that stalk small fish by drifting up slowly and then shooting out their extendable jaws. They almost never take dead bait, so a small, lively fish on a float near wharf pilings, weed beds, or reef is the way to catch one. They are prized eating fish in New Zealand and Australia and an occasional bonus catch in the UK and Ireland.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Slip Bobber Rig
Best bait
Small live fish such as a sprat, yellowtail, or piper suspended near wharf pilings and weed
Where
boat, pier, jetty
Typical size
10–20 in
Season
In New Zealand and Australia most are caught in summer around wharves, reefs, and weed beds. In the UK and Ireland they are an occasional summer boat catch.
Realistic Slip Bobber Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Slip Bobber Rig

beginnerpier · jetty · boat

A bobber that slides freely on the line until it hits an adjustable stop knot, letting you fish any depth while still casting easily. Ideal for suspending live bait over structure.

  • Main line8-12 lb monofilament
  • Leader12 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length18-30in from float down to hook, this sets your fishing depth
  • Hooks2/0 - 4/0 live bait hook
  • WeightSplit shot, 1-3 pieces
  • Line to sinkerSplit shot placed 8-12in above the hook along the leader
  • BaitSmall live fish such as a sprat, yellowtail, or piper suspended near wharf pilings and weed
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Realistic Dropshot Rig fishing rig setup
Dropshot Rig
The hook ties above the weight rather than below it, holding bait at a fixed height off bottom.
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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 ↗GOV.UK / local fisheries authorities ↗Inland Fisheries Ireland ↗State and territory fisheries agencies ↗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 John Dory?

The Slip Bobber Rig is the top recommendation for John Dory. A bobber that slides freely on the line until it hits an adjustable stop knot, letting you fish any depth while still casting easily. Ideal for suspending live bait over structure.

What bait works for John Dory?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to John Dory.

When is the best time to catch John Dory?

In New Zealand and Australia most are caught in summer around wharves, reefs, and weed beds. In the UK and Ireland they are an occasional summer boat catch.. Typical size runs 10–20 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch John Dory?

John Dory is caught while boat, pier, jetty fishing. John dory are thin, deep-bodied fish that stalk small fish by drifting up slowly and then shooting out their extendable jaws. They almost never take dead bait, so a small, lively fish on a float near wharf pilings, weed beds, or reef is the way to catch one. They are prized eating fish in New Zealand and Australia and an occasional bonus catch in the UK and Ireland.