Knife & Kingfish Jigs
Knife jigs and kingfish jigs for speed jigging around reefs, pins and drop-offs, in weights for shallow reefs through to deep water. Our range features Daiwa and Shimano, alongside Ocean Angler, Ocean's Legacy and Thirty Seven.
Work them fast and erratically through the water column to trigger kingfish, and rig them with strong assist hooks and solid rings. Pick up hooks and rings from our assist cords and split and solid rings, and fish them on a powerful jigging rod.
Talk kingfish jigging with the team at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about knife and kingfish jigs
What is a knife jig?
A knife jig is a long, slim metal jig, shaped a little like a knife blade, designed for speed jigging. Its streamlined profile drops quickly to the bottom and darts erratically when ripped up through the water, imitating a fleeing baitfish. It is one of the most effective lures for kingfish around reefs and pins, and also catches hapuku, trevally and other predators.
What weight jig do I need for kingfish?
As a guide, 100 to 200 gram jigs suit shallower reefs and moderate current, while 200 to 400 grams or more are needed in deeper water or strong current. The jig must reach the bottom and stay close to vertical. Thin braid helps lighter jigs reach depth. Carry a range of weights so you can adjust to the depth and current on the day. A heavier jig is also easier to keep vertical when the boat is drifting quickly.
How do I work a knife jig for kingfish?
Drop the jig to the bottom, then rip it up with fast, rhythmic lifts of the rod while winding a turn of the handle with each lift, covering the bottom 10 to 30 metres where kingfish often hold. Vary the speed and add pauses, as kingfish often strike as the jig changes direction. Expect a savage hit, then pump and wind hard to stop the fish reaching the reef.
How should I rig assist hooks on a knife jig?
Most anglers rig knife jigs with one or two assist hooks on short cords attached to the top of the jig with a solid ring and a strong split ring. Top rigging reduces snags on the bottom and hooks kingfish well as they strike the head of the jig. Use heavy-gauge assist hooks and rings rated for kingfish, and check them regularly for damage. Replace frayed cords straight away.
What jig colours work best for kingfish?
Silver, blue and pink are reliable kingfish colours, often with holographic or mirror finishes that flash like baitfish. Glow or lumo finishes help in deep water or low light. Matching the size and colour of the local baitfish, such as koheru or jack mackerel, can help. Kingfish can be fussy, so carry a few colours and change if the fish are following but not striking.
Where do I find kingfish to jig?
Kingfish gather around structure such as reefs, pinnacles, drop-offs, wrecks and areas with strong current and baitfish. Look for bait schools on your sounder and areas where current pushes against structure. Popular areas around New Zealand include offshore islands and pins. Always keep an eye on the weather and follow kingfish size and bag limits, and consider releasing fish you do not need.