An angler with the sailfish she landed off Kuala Rompin, Johor.
FROM now until the end of November, the sea off Kuala Rompin presents a fantastic opportunity for sports fishing enthusiasts.
Situated on the west coast of Johor and along the sailfish migration route, this area is renowned as a premier spot for reeling in the magnificent fish.
Sailfish, known for their incredible speed and acrobatic displays, provide anglers with an unforgettable big-game fishing experience.
Hooking up a sailfish and trying to reel it in with a rod and line is an opportunity to test skills against these powerful creatures as they put up an exhilarating fight at the end of the line.
The thrill from this fishing experience will provide lifelong memories, not to mention stories to share.
Anglers jigging for kembong or selar to be used as bait fish at an unjam, or fish aggregator, in the middle of the sea.
While Kuala Rompin may not be a primary breeding ground for sailfish, it plays a vital role as a feeding ground during their migration, offering an abundance of prey fish such as sardines, mackerel and anchovies.
The battle begins when a sailfish takes the bait, igniting a surge of energy within its sleek, torpedo-shaped body.
With unparalleled speed, the fish propels itself into the open sea, peeling line from the reel as it struggles to keep pace with the sheer force and velocity of the fleeing sailfish.
With each burst, the sailfish, one of the fastest fish in the ocean, demonstrates its mastery of the aquatic realm, a true embodiment of speed and agility. It can reach impressive speeds of up to 110kph in a short burst.
It launches forward like an arrow shot from a bow, dives into the sea, and attempts to break free from the line on the first burst.
In its desperate attempt to free itself, the sailfish also unleashes a breathtaking display of acrobatics. It surges towards the surface, with an explosive burst of power, leaps high into the air, flips, and performs the tail dance just as it reenters the water, creating a mesmerising, spectacular display.
An angler revives a sailfish from exhaustion after its tug of war with rod and line before it is released back to the sea.
Undeterred by the angler’s pursuit, the sailfish shakes its head vigorously, attempting to dislodge the intrusive hook in its beak.
It is important for an angler to keep the line taut, ensuring a consistent level of tension as the fishing line remains tight and without slack, as the fish performs its act.
In this fleeting encounter, man and fish collide, leaving an indelible mark on both. The spectacle of power and beauty holds the angler’s attention, a testament to the raw forces of nature.
Whether the sailfish ultimately triumphs or succumbs, the experience lingers, a reminder of the awe-inspiring wonders beneath our oceans’ surface.
From my experience, kembong and selar as baitfish worked best for drifting.
Drifting involves using a balloon on the mainline, allowing the baitfish to swim beneath the surface and attract sailfish.
Jigging with 20-30gm lures is another popular technique to catch this fish.
Of course, the rod is also an important element to catch the fish. I usually like a medium-taper rod and match the reel with a 300 series baitcaster.
I used a 40-lb braided mainline and an FG or Sebile knot leader.
I also use a No. 22 barbless circle hook to prevent harm to the fish. Larger hooks can cause injury, while smaller ones might lead to swallowing.
Lastly, while we embark on an adventure to Kuala Rompin, embrace the adrenaline rush, and create lasting memories in this remarkable fishing outing, one must remember to contribute to the conservation of sailfish populations and the overall health of the marine ecosystem.
Fish responsibly and practise the catch-and-release method. It keeps the sailfish population intact and allows it to breed.
Happy fishing!
