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How to Rig for Tarakihi

Nemadactylus macropterus

Tarakihi school along reef edges and adjacent sand and mud bottom around New Zealand and southern Australia, where they are called jackass morwong. They have small mouths and nibble at baits, so small hooks and small baits are the key difference from snapper fishing. They are a highly regarded eating fish and often caught in the same spots as blue cod and gurnard.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Dropshot Rig
Best bait
Small pieces of squid, shellfish, or fish fillet held just above bottom
Where
boat, kayak
Typical size
10–18 in
Season
Caught all year over reef and sand margins. 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
  • Hooks#2 - 1/0 small hook, they have small mouths
  • WeightSinker heavy enough to hold bottom, 4 - 12oz
  • Line to sinker12-18in from hook down to weight, fixed distance
  • BaitSmall pieces of squid, shellfish, or fish fillet held just above bottom
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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 ↗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 Tarakihi?

The Dropshot Rig is the top recommendation for Tarakihi. 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 Tarakihi?

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

When is the best time to catch Tarakihi?

Caught all year over reef and sand margins. 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 Tarakihi?

Tarakihi is caught while boat, kayak fishing. Tarakihi school along reef edges and adjacent sand and mud bottom around New Zealand and southern Australia, where they are called jackass morwong. They have small mouths and nibble at baits, so small hooks and small baits are the key difference from snapper fishing. They are a highly regarded eating fish and often caught in the same spots as blue cod and gurnard.