KINGFISH CHARTERS
Line-screaming runs, brutal head shakes and a fish that will do everything it can to bust you off on the bottom. This is the hardest-pulling fish in our waters.
Built for Anglers
Yellowtail kingfish are a challenge even for an experienced angler. When one takes the bait it will take off for the bottom looking for any structure it can find to break the line, and it will keep shaking its head the whole way up. They are powerful, fast, and every bit as much fun as they sound. They are also excellent eating.
The season runs from January to April, when the kingfish move in around the heads of Port Phillip and Western Port and out into Bass Strait. Mal runs one offshore charter a day, leaving early, and will confirm the departure point with you before the day depending on where the fish are and what the weather is doing.
Come prepared for up to eight hours on the water. There is a toilet on board, but bring a weatherproof jacket and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Read Mal's guide to catching kingfish before you come.
Duration
Up to 8 hours on the water
Capacity
6-person or 8-person packages
Season
January to April
Departure
Hastings, or Rye when conditions suit
What Else Is Out There
Kingfish are the target, but an offshore day in Bass Strait puts you among some serious company.
Yellowtail Kingfish
The main event. Hard-fighting, fast, and superb on the plate. Best from January to April around the heads and offshore reefs.
Southern Bluefin Tuna
When the tuna are running through Bass Strait, an offshore day can turn into the trip of a lifetime.
Mako Shark
The fastest shark in the sea and a spectacular jumper. Fought hard and released to fight again.
Gummy Shark
Great sport on the way home and one of the best-eating fish in Victoria, the classic flake.
The Schedule
- 1
Meet at the boat ramp at Hastings (or Rye) before dawn
- 2
Head out through the heads of Port Phillip or Western Port Bay
- 3
Search the reefs and current lines for schools of kingfish
- 4
Change location if the fish move or the bite slows
- 5
Head back home with the catch bled and iced
Departure Time
6:00 AM offshore
Offshore charters run once a day. Mal confirms the ramp and time the day before.
What to Bring
- Sunglasses and hat
- Drink bottles of water
- Sunscreen lotion
- Packed lunch and snacks for a long day
- Weatherproof jacket and warm layers, it is cold out wide
- Esky in your car (we bag your fish)
Fishing Licence
A valid Victorian fishing licence is required unless you are exempt. Available online at vfa.vic.gov.au.
Common Questions
What if the weather turns?
Bass Strait is weather-dependent. Safety comes first, and if it is not safe to go out Mal will call you the night before and help you pick another date at no extra cost.
Do I have to fight the fish by myself?
You can take it in turns. Kingfish can take a while to bring in. We always leave that question to the person on the rod.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
When going through Port Phillip heads every person on the boat must wear a life jacket, then it is up to you once we are out of the heads.
What sort of lures do you use?
A mixture of skirted lures, hard-body lures and live bait, depending on the day. Everything is provided.
What is the minimum age for children?
For offshore fishing, 12 years and over.
Do you clean our fish?
We bleed them once caught and have them placed on ice to keep them in the best condition, and bag them for you at the ramp.
Ready to Chase Kings?
The kingfish season is short and the boat books out. Lock in your dates early.
Offshore Charter · Kingfish
$1,800 for 6 · $2,400 for 8
- All rods, reels, tackle and bait included
- Up to 8 hours in Bass Strait
- Fish bled, iced and bagged on board
Offshore charters are booked as a 6-person or 8-person package.
After tuna or sharks? See all offshore charters →