As the scorching summer heat fades and a cool breeze begins to blow, anglers in Korea start getting busy. For those who love metal jigging, a 3-to-4-hour drive from the Seoul metropolitan area to Gyeongju is a small price to pay. The destination? A chance to encounter the "Dae-sam-chi" (Giant Spanish Mackerel)—a species that satisfies everything from a thrilling fight and a grand visual to a delicious meal.
The Appeal of Gyeongju: Fishing Meets Travel
Gyeongju is famous for its historic and elegant atmosphere, making it a fantastic travel destination. If you love fishing, I highly recommend visiting with your family. After a few hours of exciting boat fishing, there’s nothing like enjoying a charcoal-grilled mackerel feast together outdoors.
Essential Gear: Power and Control
To handle these powerful predators, you need a setup that can withstand a fight but remains manageable on a boat.
- Reel: A 5000-series or larger SW (Saltwater) reel is recommended.
- Rod: An 8ft rod capable of casting up to 100g lures is ideal. Avoid rods that are too long, as they can be cumbersome on a crowded boat. (Popping gear is also a great alternative if you already own it).
- Line: PE 2.0 to 3.0 (dark green is a popular choice) with a shock leader of 50lb or higher.
Pro Tip: If you don't have the gear, don't sweat it! Most boats offer rentals for a very affordable fee (around 10,000 to 20,000 KRW). It’s much lighter on your body and your wallet if you're just trying it out. You can even buy the most effective local metal jigs right at the dock.
Field Information
The most representative fields for this fishery are Eupcheon Port and Gampo Port in Gyeongju.
- Cost: Usually around 70,000 KRW for a 5-to-6-hour trip.
- Reward: Just one or two giant mackerels are enough to feed a family of four, making it a very rewarding autumn challenge.
Tactical Guide: How to Land the Big One
- The Countdown: Drop your metal jig to the depth suggested by the captain. A general rule is that the jig sinks about 1 meter per second. If the target depth is 25m, count to 25 before you start.
- The Retrieve: Speed is everything. Retrieve as fast as possible. If you’re unsure, watch the experienced anglers next to you and mimic their rhythm.
- The Landing: When the fish nears the surface, call for the captain. They will use a gaff to bring the fish on deck. Be careful—these fish often put up their strongest fight right at the surface!
Safety First!
Once the fish is on the boat, never try to remove the hook with your bare hands. Between the sharp teeth and the thrashing fish, there is a high risk of getting a hook embedded in your hand.
- Wear gloves.
- Use pliers or a small mallet provided on the boat to stun the fish first.
- Remove the hook safely before placing the fish in your icebox.
This autumn, why not head down to Gyeongju for a mix of tradition, travel, and the heart-pounding strike of a Giant Spanish Mackerel?