🎣 Catching Kingfish at The Rip – The Ultimate Guide | Reedy’s Rigs

The Rip is one of Victoria’s most exhilarating spots to target Yellowtail Kingfish. Their brute strength and unpredictable runs make them a true test for any angler. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from live bait to gear setup—plus I’ve embedded a step-by-step video showing how we got the job done.

📍 Where We Fished

The Rip sits at the entrance of Port Phillip Bay. Fast-moving tides, deep channels, and boat traffic make this place hectic, but it’s a prime feeding zone for Kingfish. The currents funnel bait into tight zones where predators strike. Preparation and local knowledge are essential to fish this area safely and effectively.

⚠️ Safety Tips

• Check weather, tide, and traffic before launch
• Bring a crew of 2–3 people to help manage the boat and fish
• Wear life jackets and carry all safety gear
• Fish slack tide or transitions (last hour of run-out, first hour of run-in)

🎣 Gear Checklist

• Rods: 10–15kg rods
• Reels: 8000–10000 size with 50lb braid
• Leader: 80lb fluorocarbon
• Hooks: Reedy’s 6/0 Lumo 187s
• Jigs: 200–250g knife jigs
• Swivels: 120lb rated

🦑 Live Bait Mastery

We caught 10 live squid using 2.5-size jigs. Keeping them alive in the tank is key. Can’t find squid? Try drifting squid strips or catch slimy mackerel and yakka with Reedy’s Sabiki Rigs.

🪝 Rigging for Kingfish

• Rig: Easy rig with 16oz bomb sinker
• Hooks: Twin 6/0 Lumo Hooks snelled
• How: Thread through mantle and above the head

This presentation keeps the squid swimming naturally in heavy current. Perfect for enticing a strike from a lurking King.

📡 Using the Sounder

Sounder work is crucial. Search for bait schools, then drop your live bait straight onto the mark. Don’t waste time drifting blind. Be precise and ready to act.

⏰ Timing the Bite

• Slack tide is safest
• Peak bite: last hour of one tide, first of the next

Watch Reedy's Bite Guide™ for real-time tide and moon tips.

🔥 Techniques That Work

• Drifting live bait along reef edges
• Vertical jigging with erratic retrieves
• Sounder targeting bait schools

🎥 Watch the Full Video Below

💡 Final Thoughts

Kingfish fishing at The Rip is high-stakes, high-reward. Come prepared, fish smart, and stay safe. Every trip builds your confidence and skills. When it all comes together, it’s one of the best fishing experiences Victoria has to offer.

📺 Stay Updated

Want to know what’s biting? Subscribe to Reedy’s Rigs YouTube for rig tips, fish reports, and more.

👉 Also check out: Reedy’s Blog for more guides like this one.