NOTES FROM THE WORKBENCH & THE WATER
The JSL
journal.
Kingfish, tuna and Australian salmon. Practical fishing guides, lure choices and a look inside the build.
On the water
KINGFISH
Best lures for kingfish in Victoria: start with where they’re feeding
Choosing kingfish lures in Victoria? Compare surface lures, stickbaits and jigs, and learn what to check before buying your next lure.
Read the guide ↗
TUNA
Best tuna lures around Melbourne: a casting guide
Compare stickbaits, poppers and smaller casting lures for southern bluefin tuna around Melbourne, with practical guidance on presentation and tackle.
Read the guide ↗
KINGFISH / LIVEBAIT
Livebait vs lures for kingfish in Victoria
Livebait or lures for Victorian kingfish? Compare preparation, fishing depth and presentation, and decide which method fits your next session.
Read the guide ↗
SURFACE FISHING
Popper vs stickbait: which should you use?
Learn the difference between poppers, floating stickbaits and sinking stickbaits, plus how to choose a presentation for your next session.
Read the guide ↗
LURE COLOUR
Does lure colour matter for kingfish and tuna?
Choosing a lure colour for kingfish or tuna? Start with presentation, then use colour as one variable rather than a guaranteed answer.
Read the guide ↗
AUSTRALIAN SALMON
Best lures for Australian salmon in Victoria
Choosing Australian salmon lures in Victoria? Compare metal lures and soft plastics, and match your lure to the water and your casting outfit.
Read the guide ↗At the workbench
FROM THE WORKBENCH
Handmade fishing lures in Australia: what are you paying for?
What makes a handmade fishing lure worth considering? See how JSL builds its Melbourne-made Suave and what to check before buying.
Read the guide ↗
01 / SIZE GUIDE
Suave 150 vs 210: which size suits your setup?
Match the lure’s profile and casting weight to the tackle you actually fish.
Read the guide ↗02 / INSIDE THE BUILD
What is a stainless throughplate in a fishing lure?
A closer look at the connection between the line tie and hook hangers.
Read the guide ↗
03 / AFTER THE SESSION
How to care for handmade saltwater lures
A few small habits that help you keep your tackle ready for the next session.
Read the guide ↗