Musandam Fishing Guide

Targets: GT, longtail tuna, big queenfish, trevally, spangled emperor + many other species

About + personal insight: Termed the Norway of the Middle East, a really scenic and wild place, there is a unique feel and level of peace about Musandam. Even when the fishing is a bit tough, it is an amazing place to be. And when the fishing is good it can be really rewarding. Popping in the morning can be productive, medium size poppers can work well. Stickbaits can be productive as the day goes on, poppers still work too of course. We have found that red head and bright coloured poppers tend to work well for the Musandam GT. Cast close to the rocks, pay attention to your popper and be ready. Fish tight drag for GT. Use small jigs, poppers or stickbaits for the longtail tuna, they can be tricky to get to eat sometimes. We have found that 40g pink jigparas work a treat. Jigging in Musandam can be really productive – you need a range of jigs depending on the depth and current. 40/60g up to 250/300g. Jigging can also produce GT, as well as spangled emperor and a whole range of other species.

Best time: year round

Gear: heavy popping set up for GT (topwater casting/popping) – 10000 or 14000 reels, PE 6 or 8, 130 to 180lb shock leader. Jigging set up PE 2.5 or PE 3, 50lb leader. Medium casting set up 5000 or 6000 reel, PE 2 or 2.5, 40lb or 50lb leader (for queenfish, longtail tuna).