Switch Baiting Techniques for Sailfish

Ross Newton's approach to switch baiting sailfish in Western Australia's shallow reef waters differs significantly from techniques used in Central America or the Atlantic, where deep water proximity and fish behavior create different presentation opportunities. Fishing reef edges where shallow structure drops quickly into deep ocean requires simpler teaser spreads and faster execution because sailfish appear suddenly, often staying in the spread for shorter windows than fish raised in open water. Newton uses a daisy chain setup with birds, squids, and a belly bait that creates visual commotion without the complexity many tournament teams employ, allowing quick reactions when sailfish materialize behind the boat. Understanding how to rig garfish or ballyhoo with circle hooks and compact skirts for immediate deployment separates successful switches from missed opportunities when fish show interest for seconds before disappearing back into deep water.