FISHING SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka has developed a name as a reliable hunting ground for GTs in recent years. Due to the strong monsun winds most spots are protceted against overfishing for most of the year. Especially the current spots a little further out are known for trophy sized Giant Trevallies. Here you have to use loud poppers to lure the fish from the depths.
When jigging you normally get smaller fish, these are however numerous. Slow-jigging in particular promises good results.

Recommended months: October – April

GT Spots:

1. Kirinda & Yala / South Coast (Southeastern Tip)

The area around Kirinda and the Great Basses Reef is widely regarded as Sri Lanka’s ultimate hotspot for trophy-class GTs.

• Reef Character: Wild, current-heavy, and teeming with marine life. Features an extensive offshore reef system and historic lighthouses (Great & Little Basses Reefs).

• GT Potential: GTs in the 30–40 kg+ class are caught here regularly. Deep drop-offs require loud, high-cupped poppers (150g+) and PE8–10 gear to pull fish up from depths of 20 to 40 meters.

2. Trincomalee & Pigeon Island / Northeast Coast

Trincomalee on the northeast coast is a legendary mark for topwater action.

• Reef Character: A massive natural bay with a steep deep-sea canyon structure right off the coast. The outer reefs and shoals north toward Pigeon Island deliver ideal current passes.

• GT Potential: High frequency of fish in the 15–30 kg range. In addition to poppers, slender floating and sinking stickbaits work exceptionally well along the reef edges and rocky structures.

(In)Shore:

Mangrove Jack, Barracuda, Barramundi, Ladyfish

Offshore:

Popping: Giant Trevally, Spanish Mackerel

Jigging: Snapper, Jobfish, Dogtooth Tuna

Casting: Mahi-Mahi, Garfish

Recommended lures: