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How to Rig for King George Whiting

Sillaginodes punctatus

King George whiting are the prized whiting of southern Australia, feeding over sand holes between seagrass beds in bays like Port Phillip and the South Australian gulfs. Anchor on the edge of a sand patch, berley lightly, and use small hooks with pipi or squid. They bite best on the tide change and are considered one of the best eating fish in the country.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Pipi, squid strip, or mussel with a little berley over sand patches between seagrass
Where
boat, pier, jetty
Typical size
10–18 in
Season
Southern Australia. Best from late spring through autumn, roughly November to May. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnerpier · jetty · boat

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks#6 - #4 long-shank or circle hook
  • WeightRunning sinker or paternoster lead, 1/2 - 2oz
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitPipi, squid strip, or mussel with a little berley over sand patches between seagrass
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Realistic High-Low Rig fishing rig setup
High-Low Rig
Two hooks sit above a bottom weight so bait hovers just off the sand.
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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 ↗State and territory fisheries agencies ↗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 King George Whiting?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for King George Whiting. The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for King George Whiting?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to King George Whiting.

When is the best time to catch King George Whiting?

Southern Australia. Best from late spring through autumn, roughly November to May. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.. Typical size runs 10–18 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch King George Whiting?

King George Whiting is caught while boat, pier, jetty fishing. King George whiting are the prized whiting of southern Australia, feeding over sand holes between seagrass beds in bays like Port Phillip and the South Australian gulfs. Anchor on the edge of a sand patch, berley lightly, and use small hooks with pipi or squid. They bite best on the tide change and are considered one of the best eating fish in the country.