The tackle shop

Rigs

A good fishing rigs is essential for keeping your bait secure and presenting it in the best possible way to attract fish. BCF has pre-made fishing rigs ready to go for different types of fishing, including surf, deep sea, and estuary setups. Whether you need a paternoster rig for bottom fishing or a simple running sinker rig for general use, we’ve got what you need to quickly and effectively get your line in the water.

Swivels and Snaps

Preventing line twist and securing your tackle is critical when battling fish, especially larger species. Swivels and snaps are small but mighty components that provide flexibility and efficiency in your fishing setup. BCF offers a variety of swivels, from barrel swivels to ball-bearing swivels, which reduce line twist and improve lure movement. Our selection of snaps allows for quick changes of hooks, lures, and rigs without the need to constantly re-tie knots, making your fishing experience more streamlined.

Terminal Tackle Accessories

In addition to the essential components of hooks, sinkers, and swivels, having a few key terminal tackle accessories can really round out your fishing kit. BCF stocks items like split rings, trace wire, crimping tools, and knot protectors to ensure that you’re fully prepared for any situation. Whether you're chasing pelagics offshore or targeting flathead in the estuaries, having the right terminal tackle accessories can make all the difference between success and missed opportunities.

Tackle Kits

For those new to fishing or anyone wanting a convenient all-in-one solution, BCF’s tackle kits are a great way to get started. Our tackle kits come pre-loaded with a selection of essential fishing gear, tailored for specific types of fishing. Whether you're into freshwater, saltwater, or game fishing, there’s a tackle kit suited to your needs. These kits are also perfect as gifts for budding anglers or kids eager to get started on their fishing journey.

Bait and Burley

The choice of bait can make or break a fishing trip, and BCF ensures you have access to a variety of options. We stock live bait, frozen bait, and artificial baits to suit different fishing styles and species. From pilchards, prawns, and squid to artificial lures that mimic the movement of real bait, you’ll find what you need to entice your target species.

If you’re fishing for large or aggressive species, consider adding burley to your kit. BCF offers burley pellets, burley bombs, and burley cages to help draw fish to your fishing spot, creating a feeding frenzy that increases your chances of a catch.

Lights and Bells

Night fishing comes with its own challenges, and having the right gear is essential for success. Lights and bells are crucial for indicating bites when visibility is low. BCF stocks a variety of LED fishing lights that attach to your rod tip or float, ensuring you never miss a bite in the dark. Bells are another handy addition, particularly for surf or pier fishing, where it can be hard to monitor multiple rods at once.

Customising Your Fishing Tackle for Different Types of Fishing

Fishing isn’t a one-size-fits-all activity. Different environments call for different setups. Here’s how to tailor your fishing tackle to suit your style:

Freshwater Fishing

If you're casting a line into a river or lake, you’ll want a lighter setup. A good all-round freshwater tackle kit includes small to medium-sized hooks, light sinkers, and thinner line. For lures, opt for soft plastics, spinnerbaits, or diving hard bodies to tempt bass, trout, or perch. Don’t forget the mosquito repellent!

Saltwater Fishing

Ocean fishing often requires more robust gear to handle bigger species like snapper, mackerel, or kingfish. You’ll need stronger lines, heavier sinkers, and corrosion-resistant hooks. Metal slugs, surface poppers, and large soft plastics are popular lure choices in the salt. If you’re fishing from a boat, don’t forget to pack a landing net or gaff for the bigger catches.

Beach and Rock Fishing

Fishing off the beach or rocks presents unique challenges, such as tides, waves, and sharp rocks. You’ll want strong rods, reels, and tackle designed to handle rough conditions. Bait like squid, pipis, or worms can attract a variety of fish, while hard-bodied lures and metal slugs are perfect for casting long distances. Safety gear like rock spikes or cleats can also make a big difference when moving over slippery surfaces.

Game Fishing

If you’re chasing marlin, tuna, or other game fish, your tackle kit will look very different from a casual fisher’s setup. You’ll need specialised rods and reels designed for big-game action, strong braided lines, and heavy-duty terminal tackle. At BCF, we have a range of game fishing tackle that can handle the demands of offshore fishing and the fight that comes with it.

Why Shop for Fishing Tackle at BCF?

At BCF, we pride ourselves on offering everything you need to get your fishing tackle sorted. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, our range of fishing gear is designed to meet the needs of all types of fishers.

• Top Brands: We stock fishing tackle from trusted, quality brands like Mustad, Black Magic, BKK, and Tackle Tactics. These brands are known for their quality and performance, so you can trust that the gear you’re using is up to the task.
• Expert Advice: Our in-store staff are passionate fishos with a wealth of knowledge. If you’re not sure what you need, they’ll help you find the right gear for your trip, whether it's a rod for kids or specialised gear for serious anglers.
• Convenience: Shop online from the comfort of your home or pop into one of our stores to see the gear for yourself. Our online platform makes it easy to browse, compare, and purchase fishing tackle, and we offer delivery straight to your door.
• Great Deals: We’re committed to providing quality gear at great prices. Keep an eye on our sales and catalogue pages for deals on fishing tackle and accessories.

Targeting Bream with Light Tackle

Bream are one of Australia’s most popular fish species, found in estuaries, rivers, and bays along the coast. Known for being tough fighters despite their size, they’re a fun challenge for anglers of all skill levels. To catch bream, you’ll want light tackle—think small circle hooks, light sinkers, and 2–4kg monofilament or fluorocarbon lines. Bream are wary of heavy gear, so the lighter the better. Using live bait like prawns, worms, or nippers is a proven method, but soft plastics and small hard-bodied lures work wonders too, especially when cast around structure like oyster racks or mangroves.

Snapper Fishing with Heavier Gear

If you’re targeting snapper, particularly the large ones known as “knobbies,” you’ll need to step up your tackle game. Snapper are often found in deeper offshore waters, although they can also be caught in bays and estuaries. You’ll need strong hooks, heavier sinkers (depending on depth), and a rod capable of handling fish that can grow up to 10kg or more. At BCF, we stock a variety of snapper-specific tackle, including paternoster rigs and quality circle hooks. Fresh bait like squid, pilchards, or cuttlefish are favourites for snapper, while soft plastics rigged with jig heads are perfect for targeting them on lighter gear.

Chasing Flathead with Soft Plastics

Flathead are another popular species found along Australia’s eastern coast. They love to sit in sandy or muddy areas, waiting to ambush prey. You can target flathead with soft plastics or hard-body lures, which mimic the small fish and prawns they feed on. When it comes to tackle, light to medium gear works best—choose small to medium-sized hooks (around size 2/0 to 4/0), a fluorocarbon leader, and soft plastics in natural colours like white, green, or brown. Drifting your lure slowly along the bottom near sandbanks or weed beds can help tempt them to strike.

Tackling Barramundi in Northern Waters

Barramundi are one of the most iconic Australian species, particularly in the tropical northern waters of Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia. These fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, so having the right tackle is critical. You'll need strong rods (up to 10–15kg) and robust terminal tackle, including larger single hooks and 60–80lb braided line. Hard-bodied lures, surface poppers, and soft plastics all work well for barramundi. Fishing around structure like submerged logs, mangroves, or rocky ledges is ideal since this is where barramundi often wait to ambush prey.

Targeting Kingfish with Heavy-Duty Gear

Kingfish, or “kingies,” are known for their strength and speed, making them a prized catch for many Australian anglers. Found around rocky headlands, offshore reefs, and even harbours, kingfish require strong tackle to avoid being busted off. You’ll need a heavy-duty rod, large live bait hooks (size 7/0 and above), and 20–30kg braided line to handle these powerful fish. Live bait such as yellowtail or squid is a top choice, though kingfish are also known to strike large surface lures and metal slugs. Their brutal runs and ability to pull line make them one of the most exciting species to target in Australian waters.

Murray Cod in Freshwater

Murray cod are the apex predators of Australia’s freshwater rivers and dams. Targeting these fish requires sturdy gear, including strong hooks, heavier lines (20–30lb), and large hard-body lures or spinnerbaits that mimic native prey like golden perch or yabbies. Murray cod often hide around snags and submerged trees, waiting for an opportunity to ambush, so make sure your tackle is up to the task. BCF stocks an excellent range of freshwater-specific tackle, including lures in natural colours that are proven to attract this iconic Australian species.

Tuna Fishing Offshore

Australia’s offshore waters are home to several species of tuna, including yellowfin, southern bluefin, and longtail tuna. Tuna are fast swimmers and powerful fighters, so robust tackle is essential. Heavy-duty rods, large hooks, and high-capacity reels spooled with 30–50lb braided line are a must when targeting these fish. Live bait such as small mackerel or pilchards is a popular choice, but trolling lures like skirted lures or deep-diving hard bodies can also be effective. Tuna can take you on blistering runs, so your tackle needs to be up to the challenge.