How Milan Consistently Lands Trophy Fish
Straylining is one of the most effective techniques for catching snapper during the colder months in New Zealand. As water temperatures drop, snapper behavior changes, and traditional heavy rigs can often spook fish in shallow water. That’s where straylining comes in. In this article, we break down what straylining is, why it works so well in winter, and how Wise Angler ambassador Milan Radonich from The Lateral Line masters this method using eco-conscious gear.
What is straylining?
Straylining is a bait fishing technique that allows the bait to drift naturally through the water column, mimicking how food behaves in the ocean. Unlike ledger rigs or fixed sinker setups, a strayline rig uses little or no weight. This natural presentation often proves irresistible to snapper, especially in low-activity periods like winter.
The key is minimal resistance. A small sinker above the hook, or even no sinker at all, gives the bait a free-floating appearance. This technique is particularly useful around rocky outcrops, reefs, and shallow coastal areas where snapper are more cautious.
Why straylining works in the winter months
In winter, snapper tend to move closer inshore and become more lethargic. They conserve energy, which means they are less likely to chase fast-moving lures or aggressively strike weighted rigs. Instead, they prefer easy meals drifting through the current.
Straylining meets this need perfectly by presenting the bait in a slow, natural drift. With the right current and minimal weight, your bait stays in the strike zone longer and moves naturally, which increases hook-up rates even when fish are less active.
Milan Radonich’s approach to straylining
Milan is well known across New Zealand and Australia for his work on The Lateral Line fishing show, but he is also highly respected among experienced anglers for his minimalist, tactical approach to fishing. In a recent YouTube episode, Milan demonstrates how to land a 20lb snapper using nothing but a well-placed cast and a carefully chosen hook. His success comes down to location, timing, and precision gear selection.
Milan targets shallow reef systems where snapper naturally congregate in the cooler months. He uses light monofilament line, carefully selected fresh bait such as pilchards or a fresh Kahawai slab, and Wise Angler’s tournament-grade Octopus Hooks. These hooks are sharp, strong, and designed to help pin fish in the corner of the mouth — ideal for catch and release.
Importantly, Milan always fishes with purpose. He limits excess tackle, minimizes environmental impact, and focuses on the fundamentals of bait presentation, drag setting, and strike timing. This disciplined approach makes him one of the most consistent strayline anglers in the region.
Tackle setup for winter straylining
If you’re planning to strayline for snapper this winter, keep your tackle simple but high-quality. Use a 7–10kg rod paired with a spinning or overhead reel spooled with 10–15kg monofilament or fluorocarbon. A basic strayline rig consists of a single or double Octopus Hook snelled onto a 60–80cm leader with a small ball sinker running freely above it. Adjust the sinker size based on current speed, but keep it as light as possible.
Sharp hooks are essential. Wise Angler Octopus Hooks are crafted with high-carbon steel and finished with a black nickel coating for corrosion resistance and superior penetration. They’re also packed in 100% plastic-free, compostable packaging — making them a better choice for the ocean.
Watch Milan in action and upgrade your tackle box
To see Milan’s winter straylining technique in action, watch our latest video on The Lateral Line YouTube channel. The simplicity of the setup, combined with premium hooks and well-placed bait, shows how effective this method can be.
Ready to upgrade your tackle box? Use code ANGLER10 for 10% off any Wise Angler bundle and get rewarded by our channel. All products are available for shipping in New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and selected European countries.
Conclusion
Straylining is one of the most effective snapper fishing techniques during winter, especially when executed with patience, precision, and the right gear. Whether you’re an experienced angler or learning the ropes, using a light, natural presentation with sharp, environmentally responsible tackle can dramatically increase your success rate. Follow Milan’s example, fish smart, and stay connected to what matters — the fish, the ocean, and the experience.