As an angler, you understand that catching Pollock using lures requires a specific set of techniques and skill. Pollock are notorious for their aggressive dive and erratic behavior once hooked. However, with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success and land some awesome bars of gold. Here are some techniques that you can use to maximise your chances of a big catch.
Rod and Reel
For targeting Pollock in rocky marks or kelp heavy areas, we suggest using a fast-action lure rod rated for casts between 10 and 50 grams. This setup provides the strength needed to steer fish away from snaggy terrain while maintaining excellent sensitivity. A responsive rod tip and blank will help you detect subtle movements and feel the underwater structure as your lure moves through. Pair it with a 3000 -3500 size fixed spool reel, and you’ll have a well balanced setup ready for action.
Lure selection is key
The colour of your lure can make a huge difference when it comes to attracting Pollock. You should have a range of lures in different colours to suit the conditions you are fishing in. In clear water and bright sunlight we tend to find that using a natural colour lure like the Salty Sandeel or Arctic Assassin prove very effective, while the brighter coloured lures like Renaissance Sandeel Lures in the brighter colours work well in murky, deep or overcast conditions. Don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect colour that will trigger a strike.
Master the art of retrieving
To catch pollock using lures, you need to master the art of retrieving. So it's important to vary your retrieve speed to mimic the natural movement of its prey depending on the conditions. Start with a slow, steady retrieve, experimenting until you find the perfect rhythm that attracts the most bites. Sometimes you may find that Pollock will follow the lure a long way up from the bottom, resulting in a mid water take on your lures. Everybody likes a good strike or hook set when it comes to fishing but fishing for Pollock is a different kettle of fish (Excuse the pun). Keeping a constant speed even when you feel the fish biting is a must, once you feel some weight behind the rod, just lean into the rod without striking and maintain pressure on the rod and reel.
Target structure
Pollock are often found near structure such as rocks, reefs, wrecks and kelp beds. These structures provide shelter and food for the fish, making them natural feeding grounds. To increase your chances of landing a catch, target these structures by dropping your lure nearby and varying your retrieve speed. Just be aware that if fishing around wrecks and reefs you gear is at risk of getting snagged quite quickly, so try to maintain your lure just off the bottom and winding your reel a few turn s off the bottom once you have hit it.
Leader
Using a flurocarbon leader will provide a certain amount of abrasion resistance against reefs and wrecks and give you protection to your braided main line. It also provides a stealthy presentation due to its low visibility properties. We recommend using a 2 – 3 ft, 15 – 20lb fluorocarbon leader.
Conclusion
Catching pollock is a challenge that requires some practice but its a great way to experience some quality fishing. By mastering the art of retrieving, selecting the right colours, targeting structure, using a slow and steady retrieve, and adjusting your lure to suit the conditions, you can increase your chances of success and catch more fish.
