The days are now longer and the weather is starting to warm up as we head into the summer months so it’s time to start planning your fishing.

Kingfish are high on all anglers’ list of species to target when summer sets in.

The key to targeting kingies in our bays and harbours is water temperature. Kingfish prefer warmer summer waters and really start to fire from mid November, or some years a few weeks later in early December.

There is the odd fish about during cooler times of the year, but I like to target kings when the conditions dictate the best chance of catching one.

The peak time for kings is usually from December until May.

When targeting kingfish it’s important to choose your gear carefully.

The Shimano Tekota 600 this is an overhead reel and is great for trolling or straight up and down fishing. But this real is not a good casting reel, so don’t buy it with the intention of using it to cast lures.

Match the reel to a Shimano Aqua tip 661 6-10kg rod. This rod is fine spooled with 15kg line, which is essential when chasing kings.

I have two of these outfits on the boat and they really suit my style of fishing. Both reels are spooled with 15.9kg (35lb) Schneider Klear line.

Another great combo for kingies is the Shimano Spheros 8000FB matched to a Shimano Starlo Stix SSX Tornado Hvy 661. Unlike the previous combo, this one will cast well.

Spool the reel with 15kg braid for longer casting ability. The braid also gives you an advantage when fishing deep offshore.

This combo can be used for casting poppers, soft plastics or fishing with live baits and it will also work fine as a bottom bashing stick offshore.

These two outfits are great for kingfish this season, so start looking at what’s needed in your tackle kit before the season kicks into full gear.

To ensure you are set for some great action, buy the best gear that you can afford as it will last a life time if looked after and won’t let you down out on the water.

To find out just what’s been happening before you head out fishing around Sydney, jump on my website www.fishingsydney.com.au to check out weekly reports and photos that are posted each Monday.