Catching 60-80kg Giant Trevally (GT) with the Goofish Ares Speed Jigging Rod: My Ultimate Battle Story

Catching 60-80kg Giant Trevally (GT) with the Goofish Ares Speed Jigging Rod: My Ultimate Battle Story

Last month, anchored off the coast of Bantayan Island in the Philippines, I gripped the Goofish Ares speed jigging rod with steady hands—beneath me, a shadow shifted in the blue depths. A 68kg Giant Trevally (GT), locally called “the sea’s iron warrior,” was hunting. This wasn’t my first GT attempt, but my first time pairing my gear with the Ares. When that behemoth finally broke the surface, its silver scales glinting like shattered sunlight, I knew one thing for sure: The Goofish Ares Jigging isn’t just a rod—it’s a weapon forged for apex predators.

If you’re ready to tangle with these marine titans, here’s how the Ares and a few pro tips can turn your GT dreams into reality.

Why GTs? Know Your Adversary

Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis) are the ultimate test for any saltwater angler. Found across the Indo-Pacific, these apex predators grow up to 1.5 meters long and tip the scales at 80kg+ (the “super GT” club). They’re lightning-fast, explosive, and notoriously smart—attacking lures with a ferocity that’ll snap lines, bend rods, and leave even seasoned anglers breathless.

Key GT Behaviors to Remember:

• Prime Times: Dawn (5:00–8:00 AM) and dusk (4:00–7:00 PM) are prime. GTs patrol shallow reefs and drop-offs during these windows, hunting baitfish.
• Habitat: Target reef edges, wrecks, or deep-water drop-offs (30–80m). These areas teem with small fish—GTs’ favorite prey.
• Lure Love: GTs are obsessed with movement. Fast-moving jigs, skipping metal lures, or popping plugs trigger their predatory instincts instantly.

The Goofish Ares: Built for GT Domination

Before challenging 60kg+ GTs, I tested countless speed jiggers. The Ares stood out because it’s engineered for big-game battles. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

1. Strength Meets Lightness

The Ares blends high-modulus carbon fiber (HM) with glass for an ultra-lightweight feel (just 1.2kg) without sacrificing backbone. When my 68kg GT lunged, the rod bent into a smooth arc—but didn’t break. No “noodle” effect here; the Ares fought back, keeping tension on the line when the GT tried to make a run.

2. Action That Reads Fish

Rated “Fast Action,” the Ares actually strikes a perfect balance: stiff enough to cast tiny jigs accurately (even into wind) yet flexible enough to absorb a GT’s sudden surges. When that 80kg brute hit, the rod’s tip loaded like a spring, translating every tug into a manageable signal—no “numb” blank here.

3. SIC Guides: Smooth as Silk

The Ares’ SIC (silicon carbide) guides are friction-less marvels. Using 20lb PE line (with 80lb carbon leader), I didn’t once feel the line “hitch” or slow down—even during 10-minute drag battles. Signals stayed crisp: a subtle tick meant a curious GT; a sharp jerk meant business.

Step-by-Step: Landing GTs with the Ares

1. Gear Up: No Weak Links

• Reel: Pair the Ares with a Shimano Tiagra 200HG (2000 model). Its 25kg drag handles GT runs without overheating.
• Lures: Focus on 6–8cm metal jigs (e.g., Mepps Aglia Long) for casting accuracy, and popping plugs (Yo-Zuri Hydro Popper) for surface action. GTs can’t resist a “skipping” or “splashing” target.
• Line Setup: 20lb PE main line (cuts water, casts far) + 80lb carbon leader (stops those needle-sharp teeth) + 15lb nylon sub-leader (buffers shock).
• Extras: A PE line anti-abrasion ring protects the rod tip, and a sturdy landing net keeps your prize safe once landed.

2. Casting: Precision Over Power

GTs lurk in 3–5m depths—you don’t need to hurl lures into the horizon. Instead:

• Warm Up Lures: Rub metal jigs between your palms to loosen them up; flick poppers to “wake” them (they splash better when active).
• Aim for Structure: Target reef edges or wreck edges—GTs patrol these zones. Use an overhead cast: swing the rod from behind your head, release smoothly, and let the lure sink to their strike zone.
• Work the Lure: After casting, pause 2 seconds to let the jig sink. Then retrieve at a steady pace—jigs should “vibrate” (2–3 quick jiggles per second); poppers should “pop” (lift, then drop sharply) every 2 meters.

3. Detecting Strikes: Don’t Miss the Cue

GTs announce their attack loud and clear:

• Rod Tip Twitches: A gentle but rapid “Z” shape means they’re testing the lure.
• Line Tightens Suddenly: If your steady retrieve turns into a “pull,” the GT has committed—stop reeling immediately.
• Surface Explosions: A loud “splash” means they’ve either inhaled the lure or charged it. Set the hook hard (GTs have tough mouths!).

4. Fighting the Beast: Patience Wins

GTs are short but powerful—they’ll sprint, dive, and even jump. Here’s how to outlast them:

• Bleed Their Energy: When they bolt, release some line (hit the reel’s brake to control the spool). This prevents snapped lines and lets them tire.
• Steer, Don’t Pull: Angle the rod left/right to guide them away from structure (rocks, reefs = broken lines). Use short, sharp pumps to regain line.
• Net Smart: When they slow and rise, slide a large landing net under them from below—never lift by the line alone (their teeth can slice through even 80lb leader!).

Final Thoughts: The Ares Isn’t Just a Rod—It’s Confidence

Catching a 68kg GT with the Goofish Ares wasn’t just about the fish; it was about trusting the gear. The Ares turned a chaotic battle into a manageable dance—its strength, sensitivity, and precision gave me the edge.

But remember: No rod (or reel, or lure) guarantees success. Study GT behavior, practice your casting, and respect their power. When that shadow finally turns into a silver missile, you’ll be ready.