How to Use a Fishing Kite

At Eat My Tackle, we know that presenting bait naturally is the secret to landing elusive pelagic species. Using a fishing kite allows us to keep our terminal tackle out of the water, leaving only the struggling bait on the surface to entice predators. This professional technique is essential for any serious offshore angler looking for an edge.

A close-up, first-person view of a fisherman on a boat deck rigging a gold conventional reel. He is attaching black release clips to a high-visibility yellow kite line. In the background, a red and white fishing kite sits ready on the deck next to an open tackle box filled with specialized gear.

Assembling Your Kite Fishing Rig

Setting up a deep sea fishing kite starts with choosing the right kite for the current wind speeds. We recommend using a dedicated short, stout kite rod to manage the kite line separately from your fishing lines. Attach high-quality release clips to the kite line at specific intervals to ensure smooth deployment and a clean break during strikes.

A wide shot of a white sportfishing boat on calm blue water under a clear sky. A red fishing kite is airborne high above the vessel, connected by a thin line. A crew member is visible on the flybridge, managing the kite's ascent to catch the steady offshore breeze.

Launching and Positioning the Kite

Success depends on a steady launch and maintaining the proper flight angle. We find that launching from the highest point on the boat helps catch cleaner air. Once the kite is airborne, we carefully let out line until it reaches the desired distance. Adjusting the bridle is crucial to keep the kite flying stable in shifting offshore breezes.

A view from the water's surface showing a live baitfish splashing at the top of the ocean. A vertical fishing line rises from the bait toward a release clip on the kite line above. In the distant background, the fishing kite stays steady in the sky, keeping the terminal tackle out of the water to hide it from predators.

Managing Your Surface Bait Presentation

The primary advantage of kite fishing is the ability to keep the leader and hook out of the sight of fish. We attach our fishing lines to the release clips and adjust the tension so the bait remains just at the surface. By watching the kite markers, we can ensure our live bait stays in the primary strike zone.

An action shot from the side of the boat showing a fisherman gripping a stout rod as it doubles over under heavy pressure. A large marlin is captured mid-leap out of the blue water, creating a massive white splash as the angler reels frantically to stay tight on the fish after the kite release.

Executing the Strike and Hookup

When a fish strikes, the line will pop from the release clip, creating a moment of slack. We must quickly reel in that slack to come tight on the fish before it can spit the hook. This transition from the kite to a direct fight requires focus and speed to ensure the hook is set firmly and deep.

Mastering the use of a fishing kite can completely transform your offshore productivity by providing the most stealthy bait presentation possible. Whether you are targeting championship sailfish or hungry mahi-mahi, having the right gear is the first step toward success. At Eat My Tackle, we provide the high-performance kites, rods, and specialized accessories needed to dominate the blue water.

If you would like to learn more about our tournament-grade equipment, we invite you to explore our online shop or contact our team for expert rigging advice!