Fishing for gummy sharks delivers a mix of adrenaline, strategy, and incredible table fare. These shark species are prized both for their clean fight and as the source of Australia’s favorite “flake.” Whether you’re patrolling offshore reefs or setting up on the sand at Ninety Mile Beach, here’s how to increase your success and stay safe on the water.
🌊 Gummy Sharks at Ninety Mile Beach
This iconic stretch of Gippsland coastline is loaded with sand crabs, a gummy shark delicacy.
Best time: Warmer months, especially after dark on a rising tide
Gummies move into gutters near shore, following scent trails in the surf
🎯 Hot Tip: Time your sessions around the new or full moon for more tidal movement and better activity.
🚤 Boat Fishing for Gummies
Target depths between 15–30m, particularly around reef edges or sandy channels.
Anchor and berley for best results—drifting works, but gummies respond to scent
Watch sonar for flathead and use the bycatch zones to your advantage
🎯 Target Zone: Slight drop-offs where sand transitions to reef are gummy highways!
🎣 Ideal Boat Setup
7 ft rod, 10–15 kg rating
5000+ spin reel or overhead reel
30–50 lb braid, 60 lb mono leader
Ezi Rig for sinker swaps
6/0 or 7/0 circle hook
Fresh bait: Salmon, squid, eel, pilchards, or trevally
Bring a large landing net, or if you’re going solo, a reliable gaff.
🏖️ Shore Fishing for Gummy Sharks
There’s nothing like hooking a gummy from the sand under starlight.
Fish gutters and drop-offs at high tide
Aim casts toward where waves settle before the second sandbar
Crab activity = good shark activity
🎣 Shore-Based Tackle
12–14 ft surf rod
Braid mainline for low drag and bite sensitivity
Pyramid or grapnel sinkers to hold ground in surge
Single-dropper paternoster rig with 60 lb mono
7/0 circle hook
Best baits: Squid, fish fillets, eel (crab-resistant)
🎒 Don’t forget:
Head torch & backup batteries
PVC rod holders
Spare terminal tackle for rays & skates
🚨 Water Safety & Shark Fishing Awareness
Fishing for gummies—especially at night or offshore—requires caution and planning:
✅ Shore Safety
Always fish with a buddy at night
Use reflective clothing and tell someone where you are
Check tide times and swell forecasts—don’t get cut off by rising water
✅ Offshore Safety
Carry PFDs, a GPS EPIRB, and VHF radio
Monitor weather updates and wind changes, especially when far from port
Use anchor lights at night, and don’t skimp on anchor quality or line
💡 VTackle Tip: Pack a small first aid kit and fish gloves—gummy teeth aren’t massive, but hooks in fingers ruin good trips.
🎒 Gear Up with Confidence
Whether it’s circle hooks, Ezi Rigs, heavy mono leaders, or fresh bait rigs, everything you need to go toe-to-fin with a gummy is waiting at 👉 VTackle.com.au
💬 Caught a ripper gummy lately? Share your stories, tips, and pics in the comments below!
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