b'TOPWATER My number one pick for best value lures would be West Coast Popper stick baits from Option Tackle as these are hand-made wooden lures which swim well. From the main brands, Shimano, Daiwa, and Ocean Angler also have plastic lures that are worth using such as the Rocket Dives, Saltiga Dive Stars and Maria Rapido.Work the rod so when you sweep, the lureEnsure your reel has a two-metre leader is pulled under the surface and spins andof 100-130lb mono with 120-150lb small flashes, creating a bubble trail. At the endprofile swivel and split ring attached to of the sweep, leave a brief pause for theyour lure. Split ring pliers, gloves and lure to bob and hang in the water.a lure bag will complete the set-up. Black Magic Tough Trace is a great all round stick baiting leader as it has some abrasion resistance but is still more supple than fluorocarbon which makes it good for casting.OFF THE ROCKSStick baiting off the rocks brings different challenges, namely with lots of rocks the kingfish can use this structure to cut the line off and escape. Heavier gear can be a better investment if the terrain is rough and PE8 is a better option, especially if you are using expensive lures. A longer rod (9-11ft) is also better suited to land-based fishing, and these can be more expensive.The change of light is one of the key phases of the day to target kings, angler Clinton Rogers hooked a nice Hauraki Gulf king early morning using a Westcoast Dana 90gm popper.24FISHING IN GODZONE JAN/FEB 2023'