Deep Dropping in Australia (What You Need to Know)
Fishing isn’t only about casting from shore or chasing pelagics near the surface. For many Australian anglers, it’s about exploring the true depths. Deep dropping has become one of the most exciting offshore techniques among serious fishos, and for good reason.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to catch Blue Eye Trevalla, Gemfish, or Bar Cod hundreds of metres below the surface, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Deep Dropping Anyway?
Deep dropping is an offshore fishing technique where baits are sent down between 300 and 600 metres, sometimes even deeper, to target large bottom-dwelling species. At these depths, sunlight barely reaches, and conditions are extreme, with strong currents and high pressure.
It’s a style that tests your patience, preparation, and gear setup. The payoff is big though, as deep dropping offers access to hard-fighting fish that are as rewarding on the plate as they are to catch.
From Hand Lines to High Tech: How It’s Changed
A few decades ago, deep dropping was done with hand lines, heavy weights, and plenty of muscle. It was physically demanding and often relied on guesswork.
Today, advancements in tackle and technology have made it much more precise and accessible. Electric reels, such as the Miya Epoch, Daiwa Tanacom, and Shimano Beastmaster, have changed the game, allowing anglers to fish efficiently in deep water. With purpose-built deep drop rods, anglers can now fish depths that were once out of reach.
Why Anglers Love Deep Dropping
Deep dropping appeals to fishos who enjoy a challenge. Every drop is a test of skill and endurance, and you never know what might come up from the dark depths below.
It also opens up opportunities to fish less-pressured grounds, often resulting in quality catches. Many of the target species, like Blue Eye Trevalla and Bar Cod, are among Australia’s finest eating fish, prized for their firm, white flesh.
The Gear That Makes It Happen
Fishing several hundred metres below the surface requires gear that is strong, reliable, and built for deep-water pressure. Here are the essentials:
- Electric Reel: Handles long drops and heavy retrieves efficiently.
- Deep Drop Rod: Tough yet balanced, designed for leverage and sensitivity.
- Weights: Generally 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms, depending on depth and current.
- Rigs: Use glow or lumo rigs to make baits visible in the darkness.
- Line: High-quality braided line for minimal stretch and maximum bite detection.
Pro Tip: Pair your setup with the GENESIS Offshore Blue Eye Bazooka Deep Drop Rod, built for serious offshore anglers.
It features a 50–80 lb power class, a high-strength composite blank, and a bent-butt design for comfort and control. Perfect for chasing Blue Eye Trevalla, Bar Cod, and Gemfish in Australian waters.
EXPLORE THE GENESIS BLUE EYE BAZOOKA ROD
What Can You Catch Deep Dropping?
Australia’s continental slopes and seamounts are home to several deep-water species that are highly sought after by offshore anglers:
- Blue Eye Trevalla (Hyperoglyphe antarctica) – Found between 200–800 metres, these powerful fish are a favourite for deep droppers.
- Gemfish (Rexea solandri) – Sleek and silver, known for schooling behaviour and strong fights.
- Bar Cod (Epinephelus ergastularius) – Found around 200–400 metres, these grouper-like fish are big and bold.
- Hāpuku (Polyprion oxygeneios) – Deep-reef dwellers often caught alongside Blue Eye Trevalla, excellent table fish.
These species are typically found off the southern and eastern coasts of Australia, where the continental shelf drops sharply into deeper water.
Where to Drop: Australia’s Deep Sea Hotspots
If you’re chasing your first deep drop adventure, you can’t go wrong with Browns Mountain (NSW). Located around 50 kilometres offshore from Sydney, it rises from the deep and offers productive depths of 300 to 450 metres. It’s one of the best-known grounds for Blue Eye Trevalla and Gemfish.
Other productive deep drop locations include:
- Southern NSW & Victoria: Continental slope drop-offs and canyons.
- Tasmanian Waters: Consistent Gemfish and Blue Eye Trevalla action.
- South Australia: Offshore ledges where Bar Cod and Hāpuku thrive.
Always check marine charts, local weather, and regulations before heading out. Deep dropping often takes place in offshore zones where safety and preparation are essential.
Deep Dropping Tips from the Crew
- Use braid for less stretch and better feel.
- Mark your line for depth consistency and faster re-drops.
- Carry spare sinkers and rigs to handle tangles or snags.
- Add luminous beads or tubing for better bait visibility.
- Keep baits fresh, as deep-water species are highly scent-driven.
Deep dropping can take time, but when the rod loads up and the electric reel starts humming, you’ll know the effort was worth it.
Ready to Join the Deep Drop Crew?
Deep dropping is one of the most rewarding styles of offshore fishing. It combines patience, power, and the thrill of catching fish from incredible depths.
At Fishing Superstore, we stock the gear you need to get started or upgrade your setup. From deep drop rods to rigs, sinkers, and line, you will find everything you need to go deeper.
Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive offers, new product drops, and insider tips from Australia’s deep drop community.
