GT Fishing Mistakes: Tips To Improve Your Catch Rate

Why Mistakes Matter in GT Fishing

At Gamefishing Asia, our job isn’t just to put you onto fish — it’s to help you land them. The Giant Trevally (GT) is one of the ocean’s toughest predators. Getting a strike is exciting, but converting that strike into a landed fish takes discipline, technique, and focus.

A big GT will usually give you just one chance. They don’t get to trophy size by being careless. That’s why our guides spend time briefing clients on common mistakes before hitting the water. With multiple shots available in the Andamans, you’ll have chances to improve — but correcting these errors early can make the difference between “the one that got away” and the fish of a lifetime.

Below, we break down the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

Error #1: Slack Line

• The #1 cause of lost GTs. Their bony jaws make consistent hook penetration tough.
• Braided line + barbless hooks = zero margin for slack.
• Even a brief lapse lets the hook fall out.
  👉 Rule: Keep tension in the system at all times.

Error #2: Being Off Balance

• Boats move with chop and current — exactly where GTs like to hunt.
• Poor balance creates slack or leaves you off-position.
• Position yourself 30–45° side-on to your lure. This lets you use body weight to absorb GT power.

Error #3: The Curse of the Rod Bucket

• Too many anglers fumble for the bucket right after a strike. By the time the rod is set, the fish is gone.
• First priority: set the hook. Once the fish is running, then find your bucket.
• Use rods with rounded butt ends instead of slotted gimbals to avoid injury when striking.

Error #4: Striking & Setting the Hook

• GTs have battering-ram heads, bucket-sized mouths, and vise-like jaws.
• A gentle lift won’t cut it. You need hard strikes, with drag screaming (10+ kg).
• Strike multiple times (at least three) to drive hooks in. Reel between strikes to maintain tension.

Error #5: Not Watching Your Lure

• Always watch your own lure.
• Strikes can happen the instant it lands — or as you’re lifting to recast.
• Don’t get distracted by your mates’ action. Keep your eyes locked on your lure while scanning surroundings with peripheral vision.

Error #6: Fiddling With Drag or Spool During the First Run

• When your drag is pre-set (10 kg+), trust it. Don’t panic when a GT rips line — that’s normal.
• Don’t adjust drag or palm the spool mid-run unless you really know what you’re doing.
• Our guides may adjust boat position or drag for you — let experience do the work.

Error #7: Pumping the Fish Incorrectly

• After stopping the first run, stalemates are common.
• Mistakes here: pulling too hard, allowing slack, or “high-sticking” rods to breaking point.
• Solution: apply short, controlled pumps with half-handle turns — you’ll still gain plenty of line while keeping pressure steady.

Error #8: Not Being Physically Prepared

• GT fishing is physically demanding: casting heavy lures, balancing on boats, fighting apex predators for 8+ hours in tropical heat.
• Preparation matters: hydration, stamina, and conditioning can decide whether you finish strong or burn out.
• Work with a physio or start fitness training before your trip to prepare body and core muscles.

Error #9: Not Reading the Water

• Learn to spot key signs: nervous bait schools, fleeing garfish, current lines, or what the skipper calls out from sonar.
• Spread casts around 360° — not everyone should throw to the same spot.
• Trust your skipper and deck crew; their local knowledge gives you the best chance at intercepting a trophy.

Cardinal Error #10: Ignoring the Skipper’s Advice

• Skippers know the water, fish behaviour, and tactics.
• They’ll guide positioning, lure choice, and fight management.
• Collaboration is key: share your ideas, but respect the skipper’s calls to maximise success.

Summary: Learn From Mistakes, Land More GTs

• Avoid slack line at all costs.
• Stay balanced and strike hard.
• Watch your lure, respect your tackle settings, and prepare physically.
• Above all, trust your guide — teamwork turns shots into trophies.