BNB Fishing Mag | April 2023 by bnbfishing

Free Angler’s Almanac inside 495

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Jacks and barra fire up Soft vibe lure guide

April 2023 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 34, Number 4

Cape Moreton captures Lake Monduran monsters

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Fishing, April 2023 – Page 1 * C o n d i t i oBush n s a p’n p l Beach y

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From the Bush ‘n Beach Fishing editor

NE topic or species I think needs to be put at the top of our fishery management agenda is sharks. I and several other fishos are of the same opinion – that having a maximum size limit of 1.5m and no control measures for fish over this size is not the right way to manage this species. Thankfully, I have recently read that a study on bull sharks by the University of the Sunshine Coast will get underway in April this year. The focus of the study is to gain an understanding of their habitat and population, with the aim of identifying future ecosystem management processes and shark control initiatives in the region. Acoustic tags will be used to track adult and juvenile bull sharks in the waterways of the Maroochy and Mooloolah rivers and the Pumicestone Passage, including canals. Sharks are becoming an ever-increasing problem for both recreational and commercial anglers, with large numbers of fish lost each year to

these toothy critters. The study will also focus on breeding, movement and effects of various environmental factors. From a fishing perspective, the data will also be very important, and hopefully new management strategies can be put in place. The study is expected to be completed by 2026. While it is good for species to be officially managed, it also requires that fishos do their part. Unfortunately, there have been several people caught breaking the rules. Offences such as targeting spanish mackerel during the recent closure and raiding crab pots are two that have featured on social media. Reading the comments, you get a mix of opinions, though there seems to be a common call for naming and shaming people who break the law, in addition to heftier fines. I have spoken to Fisheries Queensland previously about this and the courts are the determiners of the fines, which take into account more than only the punishment or penalties.

Keep up with our family adventures via @bushnbeachadventures on Instagram and Facebook. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Given this, I feel that the naming and shaming of offenders may in fact be a more effective way to curb this behaviour. Share farming has been going on since I got my first boat at the age of 12 – an old De Havilland car topper with a riveted hull was a steal for only $20 – and is still rife today. With technology improving with regard to cameras and video quality, I’m sure more nonlaw-abiding people will be caught in future. It would be great if Fisheries Queensland was provided with more funding so that more work could be done on reducing the number of fishos stealing crabs and pots. And that is what it comes down to… theft. Once again, it is unfortunate that a few rotten eggs can wreck it for many. Fishing competitions Now that Covid lockdowns are basically a thing of the past – touch wood – it’s great to see more fishing competitions back up and running. Easter has traditionally been a prime time for various competitions along the east coast of Queensland, and this appears to be the case again this year. Fishing comps are a great way to meet fellow anglers and chew the fat about everything fishing. We have an event calendar in BNB Fishing every month, so if you want your event listed, let us know. Prawning Prawns are back in force now and, for me, are always a welcome capture. This will be the first year in a long time I haven’t hit the water with a cast net to catch a few

– we’re currently in a different state. I guess I’ll have to be satisfied with the local lobsters over here in Western Australia – not a bad substitute. Only downside to that is… I must buy the lobsters. If you are new to

prawning, it is important to have a quality net and know how to throw it. I suggest honing your throwing skills on land before hitting the water – it can make the difference between getting a full pocket compared to one or two a cast. Ben Collins

OUR COVER Free Angler’s Almanac inside

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Jacks and barra fire up Soft vibe lure guide

April 2023 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 34, Number 4

Cape Moreton captures Lake Monduran monsters

Gold Coast offshore ISSN 1832-4517

Proudly produced and printed in Australia

Easter options for Moreton Bay Five tips for getting back into fishing

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Fishing, April 2023 – Page 1 * C o n d i t i oBush n s a p’n p l Beach y

LUKE MACDONALD scored a couple of mangrove jack from the Northern Rivers region. Check out Brett Hyde’s article on page 32 for more information on catching this iconic species.

NEXT EDITION: May edition will be on sale in newsagents from April 28. APRIL SUBSCRIPTION OFFER: See the subscription form on Page 84 and subscribe this month to go in the draw to win one of 15 IkiPiks from Evolve Tackle and Design, valued at $24.99 RRP each. FEBRUARY PRIZE WINNERS: Congratulations to all February subscribers who each received a pair of braid scissors valued at $10.95 RRP each. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 5

April 2023 contents New boat has plenty of mojo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Conlon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P8 Combi to Cape captures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mick Clutterbuck . . . . . . . . . . . P12 Tide Times - Brisbane Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P14 Easter fishing tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mark Templeton . . . . . . . . . . . P15 Flat out on flatties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Keith Stratford . . . . . . . . . . . . . P18 Jacks, macks and knobbies are on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Ben Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P22 Soft vibes in Broadwater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Clint Ansell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P26

Mackerel fishing fun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Gavin Dobson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P30 Competition Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P31 Cracking jacks, flatties and pelagics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Brett Hyde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P32 Tempting tuna and toothy macks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Tye Porter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P34 Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P36 Angler’s Almanac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P39

Insights into boat insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P40 Cruise Craft introduces new fishing weapon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P41 Mercury releases new SeaPro outboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P42 Stacer launches new Proline models. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P43 Why aluminium trailers are better. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P43 Dredging to commence on Coomera River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P46 Keen Angler Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P46 Jacks and barra fire up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Chris Rippon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P48 Casting and spinning for tuna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Tri Ton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P52 Tide Times – Waddy Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P53

Boyne Tannum HookUp 2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P54 Shimano King of Kings wrap up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by John Boon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P56 Five tips for getting back into fishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Robbie Wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P60 Charter Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P64 Second mini lap leg around Australia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Ben Collins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P66 Exploring Yorke Peninsula. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Craig Tomkinson . . . . . . . . . . . P70 Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Melissa Frohloff . . . . . . . . . . . . P71 Broome and beyond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Barry ‘Billabong Baz’ Lyon . . P72 LAFMA letter to Seqwater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Nicole Whysall . . . . . . . . . . . . . P74 Sweltering public holiday trip on Lake Wivenhoe. . . . . by Neil Schultz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P75 Monsters over 1m mark at Lake Monduran. . . . . . . . . . . by Sam Rowley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P76 Reforms to stock route network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P77 Pest fish busters take out tilapia and carp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P78

Access to stock route network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Brian Dare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P80 Dam Levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P80 Trading Post. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P82 Readers’ Forum ��P83 Subscription Form ��P84 Page 6 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

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The Team

EDITOR: Ben Collins ADVERTISING: Rachel Fordyce PRODUCTION: Tiffany Brown Lisa Jones

Bush ‘n Beach Fishing magazine is published monthly by Collins Media Pty Ltd ABN 43 159 051 500 ACN 159 051 500 trading as Collins Media. Phone 07 3286 1833 Email: ben@collins.media PO Box 162, Wynnum, Qld 4178 PRINTER: Spotpress DISTRIBUTION BY: Wrapaway Max. recommended retail price $4.95 (includes GST). CORRESPONDENTS: Editorial contributions are welcome, as is news from clubs,associations or individuals; and new product news from manufacturers. Entire contents copyright. Nothing may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. It is the responsibility of advertisers and contributors to ensure the correctness of their claims and statements. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 7

New boat has plenty of mojo

Ryan was happy with his first birthday snapper.

Ryan’s second legal snapper for the morning.

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O, this is my first article for 2023. We eventually launched our new old boat and it’s now up and running. As always, to work out what worked in the vessel and what didn’t, we needed to have a few jobs under our belts and, so far, everything seems to be going okay. To give you a little heads up, we are now able take up to five people out fishing. And for a social day, with maybe some light fishing and a day out on the water, we can take up to seven people, which could be good for a Christmas party, birthday party or something similar. Or simply even a day out on the water, with a bit of a feed and a swim at one of our beautiful bay islands – anyway, if you’re interested in any of these options, give me a call – all of my details are at the end of this article. So, our first official charter in the new vessel, with Ryan and his dad Glen, wasn’t a bad day out. We did have to remember that it was Ryan’s birthday, so we strove to get him a few fish to take home for his birthday dinner. We left the harbour at about 6am and headed out to around Macleay Island. With the tide we had that morning, we decided to have a little drift to see if we could get Ryan a few snapper. Well, it didn’t take long before something smashed Ryan’s Zerek Flash Wrigley and, after a nice little fight around the boat, Ryan had his first legal

Southern Moreton Bay by SEAN CONLON

snapper onboard. After a few quick photos, we motored back to the top of our drift line and repeated the process. Soon Ryan was hooked up again and, before we knew it, we had his second legal snapper in the boat. What a great way to kick off your birthday! We took a couple of quick pics and repeated the process. We drifted the same area, catching a few slightly under-sized squire and eventually Ryan’s Zerek Flash Wrigley got smashed again – right under the boat. After a great fight on light gear, he landed himself another nice legal southern bay snapper. By this time, the tide was getting to the right stage for us to chase a few flathead, so we decided to move on to see if he could get a couple

of lizards to take home for dinner. We arrived at our next location and decided to troll some Zerek Bulldog Cranks to see if we could get any interest from the local lizard population. Initially, they were a little uncooperative but, after putting in a few runs, we persuaded a nice 60cm plus flatty to attack Ryan’s lure. I have to say that that fish put up quite a performance in the shallow water, but Ryan quickly had it under control, and we soon had a nice fish in the net and safely aboard. Ryan was having a cracking birthday and, because the tide was still on our side, we deployed Zerek Bulldog Cranks into the water to see if we could tease another one up before it was time to head home. We had to put in a couple of runs, though

* continued P10

Three legal snapper for the morning for Ryan, all caught on one gold Zerek Flash Wrigley.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 9

New boat has plenty of mojo * from P8

With his first flathead coming in at 60cm plus, it was a happy birthday for Ryan.

The Zerek Bulldog Crank has fast become one of the author’s favourite lures.

it didn’t take too long before Ryan’s Wilson Blade N Tails buckled over with another nice southern bay lizard on the end of the line. As we were in fairly shallow water, it put up a great fight on the light gear. Ryan’s been fishing with me for a while now, so he soon had the fish under control and safely into the net. With another nice 55cm flatty onboard, Ryan had a soccer game to get to, so we called it a day. We had a nice feed of fish in the bin to take home for his birthday dinner and he had a great day out on the water with his dad. Hopefully we’ll see him for his birthday next year. Well done Ryan, you did a great job! Looking forward to our next trip out. This year the weather hasn’t been great, however when it was on, it’s

Tick all the boxes and catch more fish! FISHING TUITION

been exceptional! For this time of the year, when we were able to get out, the fishing was quite good. On another recent trip, I took one of my regular customers Simon out, to chase a few snapper and lizards in southern Moreton Bay and, as usual, Simon wasn’t disappointed. We pulled up at our first location and decided to throw a few soft plastics close to the mangrove line. Well, it didn’t take too long and I had a bit of a bump on one of my casts. I immediately told Simon, “Whack a few casts in that area, there’s definitely a fish there.” Simon fired a cast to exactly where I told him and bang, he was on! We were in fairly shallow water, so the fish put up a solid fight. Soon after, we had a nice 70cm plus lizard in the net. After a few quick pics,

we released the fish to fight another day. We put a few more casts in but the northerly had begun to push in fairly hard and the fish shut down, so we had to change locations. Sensing that the fish had gone off the bite, we decided the best way to wake a few up was probably to simply troll some hard-bodies and, as you know, I love the Zerek Bulldog Crank with its aggressive action, so we deployed a couple behind the boat and trolled along the mangrove line. It took a few runs but when I hooked one, it quickly spat the lure. On the next run, Simon hooked a fish that also quickly freed itself. We came to the conclusion that, as they were not attacking the lure very aggressively, with the weight of the boat and the wind we had to contend with, we were only pulling hooks out of fish mouths be-

* continued P11

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0432 386 307 seanconlonsfishing@hotmail.com Page 10 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Ryan scored a decent 55cm flathead caught on a Zerek Bulldog Crank. www.bnbfishing.com. au

New boat has plenty of mojo * from P10

cause we didn’t have a great hook-up. To help with this problem, we backed the drags right off to see if we could hook one then

gently bring it towards the boat. On the next pass, Simon hooked up and, as usual in the shallow water and with a very light drag, Simon had a

Simon with a just legal snapper caught by floating a pillie behind the boat while casting soft plastics up front for flathead – great by-catch.

little fight on his hands. But he soon had the fish under control and we had it in the net. Then, just as we lifted it into the boat, the old flatty flicked the Zerek Bulldog Crank straight out of its mouth – luckily we already had the fish safely onboard. The technique of a very light drag enabled us to land the fish. We put it on the brag mat and it went to a respectable 61cm. Unfortunately, the northerly wind had pushed in quite hard and the area became unfishable, so we moved to another location. We didn’t have many places to choose from, but we shot over to an area that was somewhat protected from the

* continued P12

Simon took a solid flathead trolling a Zerek Bulldog Crank.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 11

New boat has plenty of mojo * from P11

wind and threw a few soft plastics around. While Simon was up the front making a few casts, I thought we’d put a floating pillie out behind the boat to see if something was interested in it. I left the rod in the rod holder for it to do its work, while I went up front and had a few casts with Simon. We were out the front, having a chat and before we knew it, we heard the drag going on the rod at the back of the boat. Simon picked the rod up and… we had a nice legal snapper in the net! It wasn’t the lizard we were looking for but we’ll take that bycatch any day. We hung around the area for a while, but the wind came up and eventually forced us out, so we headed home. Simon had a nice

feed to take home to the family and we had a great day out on the water, despite the strong northerly that came in way earlier than was forecast, and the new boat performed quite well too. That’s it for this month from me, hopefully we’ll get out more next month and will have an update for you. As we all know with our jobs and lives, we are time poor, so if you can learn more to optimise your time on the water, remember knowledge is key. Until next month, stay safe on the water and if you’re interested in fishing tuition or you want to do a fishing charter, give me a call on 0432 386 307 or send me an email at seancon lonsfishing@hotmail. com, or check out the Facebook page Seano’s Inshore Fishing Charters and Tuition.

Page 12 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Scott and a solid 93cm snapper.

Combi to Cape captures

FTER an extended period of fairly ordinary weather and water conditions, the stars finally aligned to allow a trip to proceed from the north side of Brisbane. With the forecast being good, it was surprising to see only one car in the big car park and three in the car spots at Coast Guard Redcliffe. One of those belonged to John Myers, who was obviously keen to get cracking because he was already on the water waiting for the other boats to get wet. John and Andy went ahead, as they were a bit slower, and were caught by the others at Comboyuro Point. The trip across the bay was a bit jiggly and it didn’t improve from Combi Point to Cape Moreton, with the remnants of big swells from the previous days lingering. Rob Schomberg had Scotty and his son Joel onboard Salty and the first plan for the day was to throw plastics

Power Boat Anglers by MICK CLUTTERBUCK

around the shallows targeting snapper. Things were quiet and, after a few drifts with only small cod to show for their trouble, they headed off a bit wider to sound around, hoping to find something decent. John and Andy stayed close because the sea was up a bit and, as his Triumph 17’ has a low freeboard, he eventually moved back to Western Rocks. Schomby and crew persisted and found a good show. They were getting a few fish but no keepers, until Scotty hooked a good fish and landed a nice moses perch that had a rather large bull shark hot on its heels. Needless to say, from that point on, any decent fish that took drag were taken. Not wanting to continue ringing the dinner bell, they moved further out to a wreck to try their luck.

With no current, Rob spot-locked on the wreck holding a great show, but try as they might, they could not entice even a nibble. They persisted – moving here and there – though despite their best efforts, still drew a blank. Maybe there’s something to that old fisho tale about northerly wind because while there, the fish were definitely off the chew. Not to be beaten, the crew moved out to the 100m line for a look and once again plenty of show but no go. Lucky and Zen were also on the water fishing the Tempest area and reported minimal current – unfortunately though the fish activity was nearly non-existent there too. Lucky stated that the only things caught on Lucky Me at that stage was a sergeant baker and

* continued P14

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 13

Tide Times AUSTRALIA EAST COAST EAST COAST – BRISBANE BAR BRISBANE BAR AUSTRALIA, Lucky was lucky to catch his 60cm snapper. 2023 2023 LAT 27° 22ʼ S LONG 153° 10ʼ E

ime

420 116 646 243

2.15 0.89 1.60 0.75

Time

Time Zone –1000 APRIL m

Time

0626 2.39 1315 0.53 SU 1902 2.02

0629 2.12 1316 0.78 SA 1903 1.76

544 2.26 241 0.75 811 1.72

0055 0715 SU 1354 1943

0.57 17 0104 0720 2.45

007 652 344 917

0.65 2.42 0.60 1.88

0.67 0202 0.49 3 0142 0755 2.27 18 0808 2.45

MO 1429 0.62 2017 2.02

TU 1445 0.37 2039 2.32

118 748 435 012

0.52 2.55 0.47 2.04

0224 0830 TU 1500 2052

0.59 2.31 0.56 2.12

0.45 19 0254 0851 2.39

218 838 519 100

0.40 2.62 0.39 2.17

0303 0903 WE 1531 2128

0.54 2.31 0.50 2.22

0.45 20 0341 0930 2.30

310 922 600 145

0.33 2.62 0.34 2.29

0342 0936 TH 1602 2203

0.53 2.29 0.46 2.30

0.50 21 0425 1009 2.17

357 002 635 226

0.31 2.56 0.33 2.37

0421 1008 FR 1631 2239

0.54 2.23 0.44 2.35

0.57 22 0507 1045 2.02

441 041 708 307

0.36 2.44 0.35 2.41

0.57 0549 0.66 8 0500 1041 2.14 23 1121 1.87

SA 1700 0.45 2315 2.38

SU 1723 0.50 2356 2.43

524 117 738 346

0.46 2.27 0.40 2.40

0540 1116 SU 1729 2354

0.77 24 0630 1158 1.73

1 2

4 5 6 7

0.78 2.20 0.69 1.90

0.64 2.02 0.49 2.37

MO 1403 0.43 1954 2.18

WE 1522 0.35 2121 2.43 TH 1555 0.34 2201 2.50 FR 1626 0.37 2241 2.52

SA 1655 0.42 2318 2.50

MO 1752 0.60

605 0.59 152 2.08 807 0.47

0.72 0034 2.33 10 0623 1155 1.89 25 0715 0.86

026 648 228 835

2.35 0.74 1.87 0.57

2.34 0116 2.21 11 0038 0714 0.80 26 0810 0.93

107 736 306 908

2.26 0.88 1.68 0.70

2.28 0209 2.10 12 0130 0820 0.86 27 0920 0.96

154 837 357 952

2.15 0.99 1.53 0.83

2.23 0315 2.03 13 0240 0946 0.86 28 1032 0.93

255 006 524 100

2.05 1.02 1.44 0.94

2.24 0428 2.02 14 0401 1110 0.78 29 1131 0.86

415 132 712 236

2.00 0.97 1.49 0.96

2.31 0530 2.07 15 0520 1218 0.65 30 1219 0.77

531 231 817 358

2.04 0.88 1.62 0.89

ull Moon

MO 1801 0.55

TU 1243 1.75 1842 0.63

WE 1346 1.63 1938 0.73 TH 1515 1.58 2059 0.80 FR 1648 1.66 2231 0.78

SA 1803 1.83 2355 0.68

TU 1238 1.60 1827 0.72

WE 1330 1.51 1911 0.85 TH 1445 1.47 2013 0.96 FR 1621 1.52 2140 1.00

SA 1730 1.65 2305 0.95

SU 1820 1.80

New Moon Full LastMoon Quarter 7

Time

0010 0621 MO 1300 1903

MAY

0.86 2.12 0.67 1.96

Time

0045 0646 TU 1323 1930

Combi to Cape captures 16 16 1 16 1 1

Times and Heights of High and Low Waters JUNE JULY

0.66 2.27 0.42 2.29

Time

0226 0118 0.77 0752 0657 2.03 1327 0.47 * from P12 TH FR 1405 2038 1951 2.32

0.69 1.85 0.41 2.49

Time

0152 0714 SA 1332 2013

0.72 1.84 0.41 2.48

Time

0307 0830 SU 1424 2103

0.66 1.68 0.46 2.44

Time

0334 0856 TU 1500 2136

Time Zone –1000 AUGUST m

0.45 1.84 0.25 2.72

Time

0359 0930 WE 1527 2152

0.56 1.79 0.43 2.38

so I’m guessing it’s now Maybe Rob and the on constant loop on the crew should have stayed some party balloons. 0.76 0.64 0.37 0429 0.55 0145 0.61 big 0.62 screen at home for A 0.69 number of 0.67 boats2 0250 2 0103 2 0212 17 0348 2 0425 17 0315 0704 2.17 17 0734 2.20 0743 2.00 0808 1.83 0912 1.70 0949shallow, 1.91 17but 1001 then 1.84 Scott 0839 1.80 1408 0.41 SA 1444 0.42 1421 0.35 MO 1503 0.46 1552 0.21 TH 1601 0.43 TU 1339 0.58 WE 1405 0.38 FR were SU WE all and watch. 2223wouldn’t have2.37got his heard on the2.51 radio 2101 1943 2.11 2034 2.45 2.60 sundry 2141 to2.44 2.76 2223 2016 2.42 2119 this fish gave 0512trophy snapper! to be0.63 headed0401 for0.66 home 0345Anyway, 0.69 0238 0.59 0303 0.54 0.63 0.33 0456 0.53 3 0152 3due 18 0922 18a0425 3 1040 Salty 0744 2.18 18 0818 2.12 0829 to 1.97lack 1.75 ac-3 0903 1.84 0949 1.72 wind 1.98 18followed 1033 1.88 John the fishos second of fish 1415 0.50 1442 0.37 1447 0.37 1519 0.44 1510 0.31 1539 0.46 1642 0.21 WE TH SA SU MO TU TH FR 1635 0.45 2021 2.24 2117 2.55 2158 2.51 not 2149 2.68 2215 2.42 2308soon 2.73 after2251 2059 2.50 of sorts. and2.34 a glassy tivity – things were With bite0.64lasting 0555run the0.51 bay was 0237 0.63 0354 0.58good0443 0.67 0438 0.48 the 0459 0.31across 0524 0326 0.59 looking anywhere. 4 0822 2.17 19 0900 2.02 4 0915 4 0958 4 a nice 1.92 19 1002 1.72 1.85 19 1023 1.74 2.02 19 1108 1.91 another five1614 minutes or 1130 the day. Still0.36 not MO defeated, 1553 0.47RobTU 1558 0.29 WE 0.47 1730 0.27 finish TH 1449 0.44 FR 1515 0.37 SU 1528 FR SA 1710to0.50 2100 2.36 2202 2.62 2234 2.47 2238 2.72 2248 2.40 2351 2.62 2320 2.27 2138 2.55 At the weigh in, Scott’s headed to a mark where so, they managed to get 0.59 0412 0.61 0444 0.56 0520 0.69 0.45 0529 0.64 0.33 0551 0.50 another three snapper snapper went 6.75kg – had 5 0322 5Helaine 5 0530 5 0636 0900 2.13 20 0941 1.92 1004 1.87 20 1040 caught 1.70 1051 1.86 20 1056 1.77 1218 2.05 20 1144 1.93 1523 0.41 1547 0.40 1609 0.37 1628 0.52 1647 0.30 1648 0.50 1818 0.39 0.58 FR SA MO some nice TU WE and a pearlie TH SA SU 1745 into the which was a bit light for a pearl perch a 2139 2.45 2216 2.55 2248 2.64 2310 2.42 2326 2.72 2320 2.37 2349 2.17 Esky. 93cm fish that at a guess few years previous. 0.58 0454 0.65 0.56 0.72 0619 0.44 0.64 2.45 0620 0.51 6 0406 6 0536 21 0555 21 0558 6 0033 Joel normally pull the 0938 2.07 21 1019 1.82 1056 1116 1.69with6 1145 1.88 caught 1131 his 1.78 first 0715would 0.37 21 1221 1.93 The1.83 sounder lit up SA 1557 0.40 SU 1618 0.45 TU 1652 0.40 WE 1702 0.57 TH 1737 0.35 FR 1724 0.55 SU 1308 2.06 MO 1823 0.69 snapper of around a2336 great of snapper 2254 2.51 2.63show2345 2.36 2351 2.322.5kg, 1909scales 0.55 down around the 2218 2.51 putting boat plus range, but hey, 0.59 0535 0.70 0630 0.57 off the 0629 bottom, 0.74 2.65 the0629 0.63 in a 01158kg 0019 2.04 7 0450 7slightly 7 0013 22 1209 7 0756no2.23 22 1018 1.98 22 1058 1.74 1151 1.78 22 1154 1.68 0708 0.44 1.79 0.42 0650 0.53 buzz before the lockjaw one was complaining. so lines were quickly 1630 0.41 1649 0.52 1740 0.46 1740 0.63 1239 1.89 1802 0.62 1401 2.05 1302 1.92 SU MO WE TH FR SA MO TU 2300 2.53 2330 2.44 1830 0.44 in. 2004 Please 0.72 1906 0.80 set back note that the dispatched. 0536 0.63 0614 0.76 0026 2.58 got0020smashed 2.30 0100 2.54 0023 2.24 0200meetings 1.99 0053 1.90on the Lucky radioed to say occur Scotty 8 1101 1.88 23 1135 1.67 8 0726 0.59 23 0704 0.76 8 0755 8 0837 0.49Wednesday 23 0724 0.56of every 0.46 23 0701 0.63 they1.91 hadSUa 1251 similar 1249 1.76 down 1.67 theSA 1334 1.79 bite, 2.04 WE 1350 1.92 MO 1704 0.46 TU 1722 0.61 TH halfway FR 1236 on TU 1501first 2343 2.52 1833 0.55 1821 0.71 1925 0.56 1844 0.72 2112 0.87 2000 0.89 drop and, with it tak- getting fish for 10 min- month at ‘The Club 0627 0.68 0007 2.35 0118 2.51 0059 2.23 0148 2.38 0058 2.14 0254 1.76 0138 1.74 utes0.48 or so. (bowls club), 26 serious drag,9 0841 9 1150 1.78 24 0654 0.82 9ing 24 0737 0.63 9 0925Manly’ 0822 some 0.59 24 0744 0.76 0.55 24 0807 0.60 1745 0.53 1216 1.61 1353 1.76 1324 1.67 1433 1.94 1337 1.79 1610 2.06 1453 1.93 from TU WE FR initially called SA SU MO WE TH John reported that he Faine St Manly it for a 1759 0.70 1934 0.64 1909 0.80 2026 0.70 1931 0.83 2237 0.94 2115 0.95 had moved 0135 out the front 04036.30pm for0245 a 7pm start. shark. 0030 2.47 0047 2.26 0215 2.41 0140 2.15 0239 2.20 2.02 1.59 1.59 10 0724 0.73 25 0738 0.86 10 0917 25 0.58 0828grunting 0.75 10 0928 0.49 25 0817when 0.63 10 0.60 25 0910 0.64 of the Cape the 1023 Upcoming meetings With a bit of WE 1246 1.69 TH 1303 1.57 SA 1500 1.81 SU 1420 1.68 MO 1538 1.99 TU 1432 1.81 TH 1721 2.11 FR 1614 1.99 wind backed2030 off0.92 and had are on Wednesday 1843 0.80 2045 groaning, 0.72 2004 1833 0.62 0.81 2251 0.92 April and he0.89 man- 2135 scored and then on1.53 Wednes0127 2.40 0132 2.17 0314 2.31 0227its2.07 0335 2.01 a few 0223nice 1.88 grass 00075 0.89 0416 aged to turn head 11 0831 0.75 26 0830 0.88 11and 1011 0.55 26 0916 0.72 11 1016 0.50 26 0904 0.63 11 0526 1.52 26 1029 0.62 sweetlip, a mixed bag day May 3. called it for an am1356 1.64 1402 1.55 1610 1.91 1525 1.74 1645 2.07 1540 1.87 1128 0.61 1733 2.13 TH FR SU MO TU WE FR SA 1935 0.71 1938 0.90 2159 0.77 2144Shoal 0.97 and 1825 Until 2.18 from0.87Roberts next month, safe berjack, then2111 after0.95a bit 2253 0231 2.34 0225 2.10 0415 2.21 0320 1.99 0436 1.86 0325 1.76 0116boating. 0.79 0.79 was heading in. gut 27 busting, it was 12 0941 0.72 27 0926 0.86 12more 12 1108 0.50 27 1002 0.61 12 0639 1.54 27 0021 1103 0.51 1008 0.67 0542 1.57 1715 for 2.04 the 1633 1.84 FR 1517 1.68 SA 1515 1.59 MO time TUnet. WE 1748 2.18 TH 1652 1.99 SA 1230 0.58 SU 1145 0.54 2055 0.77 2046 0.96 2314 0.78 2226 0.96 2309 0.94 1918 2.26 1841 2.31 Expecting to0419 see1.92 an AJ 0012 0.86 0515 2.12 0440 1.69 0208 0.69 0130 0.62 0342 2.31 0323 2.05 13 1045 0.65 28 1022 0.81 13or1154yellowtail 0.47 28 1100 0.61 13 0541 1.75 28 1106 0.57 13 0735 1.61 28 0653 1.68 kingfish, 1815 2.19 1735 2.00 1201 0.50 1800 2.15 1326 0.54 1635 1.79 1627 1.68 TU TH FR SU MO 1253 0.43 SA SU Schomby WE was2341surprised 0.91 1846 2.28 2003 2.32 1939 2.48 2219 0.77 2204 0.97 to see0.76 a snapper 0249 0.62 0450 2.31 0423 2.04 0026 0519 appear1.88 0121 0.79 0030 0.83 0227 0.46 14 1145 0.56 29 1114 0.73 14ing 0610 2.02 29 1152 0.54 14 0644 1.69 29 0552 1.68 14 0819 1.68 29 0753 1.81 from the bubblesFR 1253 0.49 SA 1208 0.50 MO 1412 0.49 TU 1356 0.31 SU 1743 1.96 MO 1728 1.82 WE 1241 0.44 TH 1831 2.17 2044 2.36 2336 0.71 2316 0.92 1907 with 2.33 1900 2.32 2030 2.62 and, a selection of 1937 2.37 0552 2.30 0519 2.04 0130 0.73 0049 0.82 0218 0.72 0140 0.70 0326 0.58 0316 0.35 words used to 15 1237 0.48 30 1200 0.63 15censored 0703 1.93 30 0617 1.85 15 0741 1.67 30 0658 1.71 15 0857 1.74 30 0846 1.93 1840 2.13 1820 1.99 1325 0.42 1244 0.47 1341 0.47 1308 0.41 1451 0.45 1451 0.22 MO TU TH describe the FR thing, it wasSA SU TU WE 1955 2.43 1923 2.34 2022 2.42 1956 2.49 2119 2.38 2117 2.69 fairly clear it was a good 0.56 0.27 0.85 fish. 31 0021 31 0241 31 0401 0800 1.77 0935 2.04 0610 2.04 1405 0.33 1543 0.17 MO TH WE 1245 0.55 On the measure it 2047 2.62 2201 2.69 1906 2.16 pulled up at 93cm and © Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2021,of Bureau of Meteorology was a fish a lifetime First Quarter Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide for Scotty. Last Quarter Lucky did Full the Moon right thing by Last removing New His Moonson Joel captured First Quarter Quarter balloons Moon Phase Symbols the whole fight on video, found out at Tempest. 8

Page 14 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

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Easter fishing tips E ASTER is a time to overindulge in chocolate, to have a great time outside with family and friends, and to lose tackle… that’s right, go fishing! Our waterways have seen some incredible changes over the past 12 months. After the flooding last year, we had so much debris wash into the creeks and rivers, it fed the system with much needed nutrients, and we are now seeing the system flourish with life. So far this year, we have had an incredible amount of flathead, bream, whiting and other species being caught from Bribie Island to

Northern Moreton Bay by MARK TEMPLETON

the Brisbane River. Big longtail tuna were seen and caught around Woody Point to Shorncliffe Pier and beside them, mackerel have been taken. If you want to have a crack at these machines while they are hanging around, try to match the hatch with what they are eating. Lures about the same size as a good hardyhead with upgraded trebles would be a great place to start. You can try the same with mackerel, though you’ll still get their interest with a pillie be-

ing floated out too. Some regular fishos use a standard two or three-hook gang rig, with only the bottom hook used with live bait under a float. In most cases, this is going to reduce the requirement for a wire trace. Any advantage you can get over the razor gang – read sharks – is a welcome advantage! Now is the time to gear up for the upcoming squid season. With the fishing being so good over the past few months, I can’t

* continued P16

Go wherever and whenever the fish are biting with confidence! Made in Australia for our tough marine environments Photo courtesy of Australian Master Marine

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After making a pinkie promise for a prawn lure, Joe delivered, with a big smile and a decent whiting.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 15

Easter fishing tips * from P15

Ryan’s Moreton Bay venture paid dividends with a cracking little bay squire.

Theodore nailed a grunter, just for us.

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0402 703 519 Page 16 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

wait to see what the squid season is going to produce! In the bay, great catches of snapper and grass sweetlip are also being recorded. Mud Island has been mentioned by our regulars the most and photos of their Eskies tell the story. Ryan ventured out into Moreton Bay with a friend during a great weather window and it paid dividends, with a great result. Ryan nailed a cracking little bay squire, along with a few other species. Well done Ryan – all you must do is teach your dad to fish and your job is done! Every morning we open, put the signage out, sit down with a brew and watch the world go by while finding solutions to the world’s issues – it has been the same routine for years. We get to meet regular walkers, coffee drinkers and such and, most times, we end up having a chat or simply giving a passing wave. Where is this going? Well, we struck up a morning friendship with a mum who regularly walked while pushing a pram that carried her son Theodore. Theodore was usually chilling in the pram, wearing his traditional sunnies, so we nicknamed him ‘cool dude’. Theodore is now at school and greets us with a very pronounced “G’day”, which makes our morning!

In the shop, Theodore has also become a regular when fishing with his dad and always has a tale of his latest adventure at the ready. I told Theodore that I needed a photo of him with a fish so I could put it in this article and, in a very cool manner, he gave me the thumbs up and said “Sure!” I’m sure Theodore is an old soul in a young body. So, Theodore went out and nailed a grunter just for us – we felt privileged. I would have been happy with only a bream but no, a grunter it was. Thank you Theodore for making our day! Why do we open the doors eight days a week? Well, it’s simple... we have an array of awesome clients who come in, some daily. But when you have a client called Joe who comes in and leaves everybody speechless – even the seasoned fishos – there’s the reason. Joe came in with his dad Justin to grab some bait. While at the counter, he saw some very wellplaced prawn lures at kids’ eye height and started to pick out the one he liked. He showed his dad the one he’d picked and was super keen to have it. I jumped in and told Joe that I would make him a deal. The deal was… go out fishing with dad, catch a fish, get a photo of the fish while holding

it, with a cracker smile and doing the Tackle Land ‘thumbs up’ pose and I would give him the prawn lure. He said it was a deal and we shook hands – the deal was sealed. Well, Joe went to walk away with his dad but stopped, looked back at me and said, “Nah, this is worth a pinkie promise.” And with that, he produced his pinkie and asked if I knew what that meant. I assured him that I knew a pinkie promise was very serious and you can’t break one when you make it. It was at that moment everyone in the shop went quiet – no one said a thing. Joe and his dad left, leaving looks of disbelief on the faces of those remaining in the shop. Joe rang a few hours later, though we struggled to make out what was being said. All we heard was, “pinkie promise,” “fish,” and “photo.” We then received a photo. This is what drives us to open our doors every day. There are so many ‘Joes’ out there – we hope we get to meet yours! If you need ideas for taking your kids fishing, jump onto our website and have a read of the articles written by our customers – these could save you a headache, tack leland.com.au/posts/ Enjoy the time spent together and maintain the passion!

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 17

Flat out on flatties A

Luke landed his first flathead on a soft plastic.

Amelia jigged up a 52cm flathead on a Pro Lure Clone Prawn.

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PRIL is an excellent month to chase a feed of the fish and crustaceans available from around southeast Queensland. The air and water temperatures will begin to drop as the weather cools, and the days will get shorter. It’s been a dry start to the year, with very little rain falling throughout February and March. The lack of rain sees all the rivers and creeks around Brisbane very clean, with saltwater all the way to the top of each system. There is a lot of bait around at the moment – large schools of herring, mullet and other assorted baitfish have spread from the mouths to the upper reaches. The mouths of the larger rivers such as the Pine, Caboolture, and Brisbane and the Bribie end of Pumicestone Passage have all been holding big schools of bait. Most of these are hardyhead and herring. Flathead have feasted on these over the past few months, so hopefully they hang around for a while yet. Small jewfish from 3070cm have been following these bait schools, as have tailor, grunter and big bream. The sizes of the flatties have been excellent, with fish averaging around 50cm. A few better fish up to the maximum legal size of 75cm have also shown up, so make sure you’re aware of the size and bag limits before keeping fish. I recently took my two kids for a flatty fish in the Caboolture River. I stopped into Tackle World at Lawnton on the Saturday to get my

Local Luring

by KEITH STRATFORD

son a new outfit for lure fishing. The crew there sorted us out and we walked out with a bag of jig heads, some Pro Lure Clone Prawns and a great little outfit for Lukey.

We were only on the water for five minutes before Luke hooked up and landed his first flatty of 42cm. He had a plan of ticking off a flathead and a jewfish in 2023, so he * continued P19

Luke scored a jewfish measuring 68cm on a soft plastic. The fish was released after a quick photo.

Luke landed his personal best flathead at 61cm.

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Flat out on flathead * from P18

was a happy fisho to get rid of one so early in the day. Amelia was next with a nice 52cm model. It measured 1cm short of her personal best, so she was super happy. Then it all turned into the Luke show. He nailed a 61cm, a 60cm and missed a couple of others. The tide started to slow down and so did the action, so we drifted away from the flatties a bit and Luke hooked up to something better. It took off on the light gear and had him a bit worried. It turned out to be a nice little jewie in the high 60cm range. He was chuffed to tick both of his target

species off for 2023 in one morning. Bull sharks have been in plague proportions throughout every system. These things are becoming a real problem. Even the smaller sharks have started sitting under boats waiting for hooked fish to come up so they can score an easy feed. They’re actually very good on the plate when looked after properly, so get out there and eat some of them! Mud crabs have been outstanding in quality and quantity. All systems around Brisbane have good crabs in them. At this time of year, try a few different areas – you might be surprised. Crabbing the obvious

spots such as creek and drain mouths can produce a lot of undersized and empty crabs, if the area has copped a flogging. I had a person sink their pot on top of mine one day at a drain mouth in Kedron Brook Floodway. Mine had a rope and name tags on it with the float thrown up around a tree. It must have been a good-looking spot, I guess. Prawns are everywhere but, from what I’ve seen, the sizes have been average. That should all change this month, as April is often the best time for prawns. That’s it from me, I hope to see you out on the water.

Small trevally feasted on an abundance of bait that was around the river mouths recently.

Amelia and Luke with a double hook on flathead, on Pro Lure Clone Prawns.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 21

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Page 22 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

ND before we knew it, holidays are here

again. With Easter on the horizon, April on the Gold Coast is quite often just as busy as Christmas. The weather is cooler, which makes it more comfortable for fishing, and the crowds flock to the coast. The fishing scene is generally on fire this month, with a variety of species on offer. Mangrove jack were still being caught in numbers around the Seaway north wall. One of the best ways to catch a jack is to pitch a live lightly weighted up along the rocks and let it drift back into the deeper water, so that it follows the contour of the rocks down into the deep hole towards the end of the wall. Another technique is to vertically jig soft vibes along the edges of the rocks, fishing close to the bottom structure to entice the bite. Position your boat about 10-15m off the

Gold Coast by BEN SMITH

wall and you’ll see on your side scan where the larger rocks from the wall meet the sandy bottom – this is the area you should be targeting. If you move out another 10m or so, you’ll more than likely see some bigger fish marking up on the sounder. These will more than likely be mulloway. Targeting these uses a similar approach and, once again, vertically jigging a heavier soft vibe such as a big Sam-

aki or similar will be irresistible to a goodsized jewfish usually. Another effective bait is live pike. These can be jigged up around the bridge pylons and jetties throughout the Broadwater. They can also be caught on small soft plastics worked through the weed beds around Wave Break and Crab islands. Live baiting will gen* continued P23

Parker landed a beautiful snapper on a recent trip to the 50-fathom ground east of South Stradbroke.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

Jacks, macks and knobbies are on * from P22

erally require using a 40-60lb leader with a pair of 5/0 hooks snelled to the end. Vary your sinker weight to keep the line vertical under the boat as you drift parallel with the rock wall. I generally find something around a 1.5-2oz sinker is enough to keep the line straight down. Be aware though that the resident sharks will be on the tail of any good jewie caught here, so it’s important to lock up on that drag and get the fish in as quick as you can. If you use light line and play around too long, you will definitely get sharked. During April, when the weather is bad off-

shore, an option is to hit the prawns around the southern Moreton Bay area. Hopefully by now there should be good numbers anywhere from Jacobs Well, the Logan River, the power lines that go over to Russell Island and out the front of Redland Bay. You’ll need a good top-pocket cast net and be able to cast it well. It’s an easy run up from the Broadwater and, if you’re new to the sport, you’ll be able to find a place to start casting by looking out for a bunch of boats tossing nets around these areas. Just cover some miles and look around. Once you find them, it’s on.

Get into it and start casting. You will see the prawns on your sounder and it shouldn’t take long to fill a bucket. Bay prawns are sweet and delicious, though different from the ocean prawns we’re used to seeing in shops. However, my favourite thing about April is the offshore fishing. With mackerel and wahoo still about, over the Easter break there’s not much that could be more fun than to go for a troll or live-bait session chasing these speedsters. It can be as easy or as complex as you want to make it, but usually it’s as simple as grabbing a couple of your favourite 15kg combos and tying

* continued P24

Hudson couldn’t be outdone by his brother with a beautiful eating-sized snapper.

This lump of a 112cm mulloway was caught among the mayhem at the end of the north wall of the Seaway on a live pike.

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Jacks, macks and knobbies are on * from P23

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off a couple of Halco Laser Pro Crazy Deep or Rapala hard-body lures and start trolling. The bait grounds off the Spit, Diamond Reef and of course Mermaid and Palm Beach reefs are always good places to pick up a mackerel. The wider grounds around the 36-fathom fish aggregating device off Southport had some decent wahoo over February and March, so I would try around there as well. You can also troll dead bait. This is probably the most effective way to get hooked up but takes a little more preparation. I use my own custom wire rig bit – if you want to see how it’s done, you can check out a step-by-step video

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I did with Doug Burt from Tackle World Gold Coast to see exactly what the tricks to success are. It’s very informative – you can find it on my Ship Faced Fishermen YouTube channel, the video is called ‘Doug Burt’s Perfect Mackerel Rig’, or simply scan the QR code.

I guess the best part of the Easter break is getting out with my sons for a good old snapper session. I know everyone says they are a winter species but if you fish right, they can be found year-round. I love fishing for them at this time of year because the run out to where they are is often a glass out and the kids don’t mind getting out of bed early knowing what fun can be had. As you know, snapper is an awesome eating fish as well as heaps of

fun to catch. Almost any method works on them – from paternoster rigs, plastics, deep-trolling hard-bodies and of course float lining. Though April is also the time of year when some of the bigger fish that hang around the 36-50 fathom reefs start slowly moving into closer ground. Having the kids onboard makes life easier and more enjoyable, particularly if you don’t need to travel far. So, with the family onboard, a run to the 24-fathom reefs off Southport is a great option during the holidays. As always, use your sounder and find the fish first – this way you’ll be one step ahead before you even wet a line. Good fresh bait and a couple of 5-7” soft plastics are the way to go and try to be out there for the bite time. You will find that in the Anglers Almanac in this publication. With all these options over April, get out there, have some fun on the water and have yourself a happy Easter.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 25

Geoff had tailor fun on a charter with the author. Norm from Idaho in the US caught a good tuskfish on a Broadwater charter with the author.

Soft vibes in Broadwater

H Noel caught a decent flathead using soft vibes on a charter with Brad Smith on the Tweed River.

I everyone, I can’t believe it’s nearly Easter… already! It is the time of year that our favourite season for local estuary fishing starts. The water is cooling, which brings a change of species, including flathead, flounder, tailor,

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jewfish, winter whiting, blue swimmer crab and squid in bigger sizes and numbers compared to warmer months. Something I love doing is trying new lures, and lately I’ve added the MMD Soft Prawn Vibes to my daily arsenal. I rate them up beside Samaki Vibelicious and Ecogear ZX40. As a fishing guide, strike rate is vital when using lures and these vibes do not disappoint. They come in six col-

ours, measure 70mm and weigh 9.6g. To get the most out of them, it pays to use the right tackle. For soft vibes, PE 0.6 braid and 10-12lb leader are ideal, rigged on a 2500-size reel and 7’ 2-4kg rod. I find the Okuma Ceymar HD reels and TT Red Belly Spin rods are ideal for using soft vibes, and you can find this great value combination at good tackle * continued P27

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Page 26 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Damien with a 52cm mangrove jack that was released after a photo.

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Soft vibes in Broadwater * from P26

shops such as Sporty’s Fishing at Bundall. Here are a few tips to get the most out of the MMD Soft Prawn and other soft vibes. Apart from using the right tackle, use scent to smear over the lures. We use Smithy’s Sax Scent in UV Prawn flavour. Occasionally, I also like to use a Spike-It Scented Marker pen to draw red or orange on the underside of the vibes to provide contrasting colours. It seems to work very well and the colour stays on permanently. Also, the MMD Soft Prawn vibes have only one strong treble hook attached. While it does miss hooking some smaller fish, it less frequently

snags and fouls on the line. It sinks straight and fast and has a nice vibrant clean action, making it an extremely versatile lure. I have caught fish on it casting over shallow flats then down to an 18m deep reef. When fishing shallow, I prefer to cast it out, let it sink, then hop and pause all the way back to the boat. Be prepared to strike when feeling a bite to get a solid hook up. When drifting deeper than 4m, we prefer to teabag by dropping straight to the bottom while drifting with the tide, then employing a single fast lift and drop without winding in. The bites usually come on the drop, so again be ready to strike.

A jewfish took a liking to the new MMD Soft Prawn Vibe.

Beau took a decent slatey bream.

www.bnbfishing.com.au

Always keep an eye on the sounder when fishing – if you don’t spot bait and fish, keep moving a few hundred metres at a time until a feeding school is found. These vibes are tough and stand up well to a lot of hits. As with other lures, keep trying different colours to find what works best on the day. Pearl is often good in the morning and on a cloudy day. Live is good in clear water and on calm sunny days. Green and pink have worked well in most conditions, while Bloodworm is good during in-between times such as a partly cloudy day and slightly dirty water. Gold is awesome in deeper water, dirty water and low light. My favourite areas in the Gold Coast Broadwater to use this soft vibe are Curlew, Wavebreak and Crab islands, North Currigee for shallow water, the main channels north and south of the Seaway, Ephraigm and Sovereign islands and the Aldershots channel for deeper water. During bigger tides, focus deeper jigging an hour either side of tide changes. During neaps, you can fish any time. In the shallows, fish on top of the sand flats at high tide and off the edges of banks at lower tide. See you out there soon! To book on a charter with myself or Brad, or if you have any fishing related questions, visit goldcoastrivercharters. com, SMS 0432 990 302 or email fishing withclint@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook – Brad Smith Fishing Charters.

Beau landed a tuskfish when fishing with yabbies.

Trevally love eating prawn imitation lures such as the MMD Soft Prawn Vibe.

The MMD Soft Prawn Vibe range has been added to the author’s current arsenal.

Decent blue swimmer crabs have been in the Broadwater recently. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 27

What’s a holiday without a bit of fishing? If you’re looking for something exciting this Easter, head out to one of our fish aggregating devices (FADs) in the Gulf of Carpentaria or Southern Queensland. No boat? No worries, contact one of the many charter fishing operators in the region and they will get you out for some FAD fishing fun!

FADs attract and aggregate pelagic fish which travel in the warm water delivered by ocean currents. Species such as mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, cobia, mackerel, and billfish provide exciting sports fishing for recreational anglers up for a challenge and wanting to catch a good feed. Mahi mahi are the most prominent fish found at the FADs and are a great to take home to eat after a day out with friends and family – whether you’re on a charter or your own boat. Caught a ripper fish? You can provide details of your recreational fishing trips at the FADs via the FADs fishing form by searching ‘fish aggregating devices’ at qld.gov.au. started with the Faces of Fisheries Jonathan department completing his PhD

Hi Jonathan!

Jonathan has been using his expertise as a fisheries biologist and love of fishing to collect data and provide objective advice to help manage Queensland’s fisheries for more than 25 years.

and working on a range of research projects studying scallops, sardines and other baitfish, trawl gear, barramundi, and banana prawns. Now he works in the Fishery Monitoring team collecting scientific data on Queensland’s important fish species. He believes managing fisheries is not just about the science and fish. It’s also about people, and there are social and economic factors that need to be considered. Jonathan’s wealth of fisheries knowledge and technical expertise has led him to manage and support a team of fisheries technicians. He loves serving up fresh fish he’s caught to family and friends – although you might not catch him sharing his homemade green curry school mackerel pies!

Fish for your chance to win The inaugural Fish ‘n SIPS tagged fish competition is well and truly underway. The competition has had an excellent start since its launch, with the first 3 prizes, totalling $35,000, already claimed! There is still $15,000 up for grabs, so there is plenty of opportunity to grab your SIPS permit and chase a winning tagged fish at one of the 5 participating stocked impoundments in Central and North Queensland. For more information on the competition visit fisheries.qld.gov.au.

Download the free ‘Qld Fishing 2.0’ app from the App Store or Google Play DAF1905 03/23

Page 28 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 1908 Bush and Beach April 2023.indd 2

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www.bnbfishing.com. au 28/2/2023 4:42 pm

Why donating your fish frames to science provides valuable data Fisheries Queensland’s Keen Angler Program (KAP) is just one of many sampling activities involving the voluntary participation of recreational fishers to collect valuable biological data from some of Queensland’s premier fish species. The fish frames collected from participants in the program are used to provide annual information, especially the length, sex and age of fish being caught. Estimates of the age of fish are obtained from the otoliths (ear bones), which are examined under a microscope to count the annual growth bands. There is a great deal of variation in the growth rates of individual fish of each species. Sometimes the differences in the growth rates can be related to the years or areas they were born in, as well as their gender. It is important to know how many old fish remain in the population relative to previous years (the oldest fish are not always the largest)

and how many younger fish are entering the population each year to assess the long-term sustainability of the fishery. The benefits of data collection is large and supplements our other recreational and commercial catch sampling programs. Between 2019–2022, more than 9,500 frames were donated to the KAP by recreational fishers. In that same period, otoliths, which don’t need to be removed from every single fish, were removed from nearly 4,500 of the donated fish frames. Another great benefit of the program is the avenue for communication between the scientists carrying out the work, and the people who do the fun bit – fishing! Regular newsletters are sent to members of the program, to keep them informed about important information, as well as interesting snippets for relevant research projects. For more information and to participate in the program, visit fisheries.qld.gov.au and search ‘Keen Angler Program’.

Need help finding the fantastic freshwater experiences on offer across Queensland? We’ve got you covered! We’ve worked with the Freshwater Fishing and Stocking Association of Queensland Inc. to develop 5 regional trail guides. Each guide provides maps and information on stocked fish species and facilities in:

• • • • •

Download your digital copies by searching ‘SIPS’ at North Queensland qld.gov.au. Hard copies are available from local stocking Central Queensland groups, selected tackle stores and tourist information Wide Bay – Burnett outlets. Murray – Darling South East Queensland

fisheries.qld.gov.au 13 25 23 FisheriesQueensland FisheriesQld DAFQld www.bnbfishing.com.au 1908 Bush and Beach April 2023.indd 3

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 28/2/2023 2023 – Page 29 4:42 pm

The crew of exchange students with the first three fish on the boat.

Mackerel fishing fun

’VE skippered charter boats before, and I don’t love it. The pressure to produce fish for people paying a lot of money is not something I enjoy. It’s not a lack of confidence, it’s simply the reality that every person on the boat has paid for the trip of a lifetime and it’s impossible to provide that every trip. You know that sooner or later, no matter how much effort you put in or how much fuel you burn,

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Tweed to Byron Bay by GAVIN DOBSON

a dud trip is inevitable. Even when taking friends out for a fish, the skipper of the boat feels pressure to produce the goods. I know it’s not only me because I’ve heard many other boat owners comment similarly. Despite this feeling of pressure I place on myself, I still regularly take people out with me. It would be selfish not to, and I want them to experience what we as fisher folk get to experience, which is more than merely catching fish. So, when Tina’s aunty rang recently to ask if I could take a few exchange students from Denmark out, one of whom was staying with her, I didn’t hesitate to reply in the affirmative. A couple of weeks later, a decent Sunday

forecast presented itself and we arranged to meet in Brunswick for a predawn start. I was hopeful for a couple of mackerel as some had turned up a few days prior – as late a start to the mackerel season as I have seen – but I had a plan B tucked away, just in case. Live bait was reasonably easy and the students all had a go at jigging up a few yakka and other bits and pieces. These were soon deployed on a slow troll in search of a shiny speedster. We lost the first fish and I explained that it wasn’t angler error – pulling the hooks is purely part and parcel of mackerel fishing. In times past, when mackerel have been on * continued P31

Occasionally you get your rig back and sometimes you get nothing back. Sharks never leave you anything worth eating though.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

Mackerel fishing fun * from P30

the chew in a major way, I have been known to put so many hooks in a live bait that it can barely swim and yes, the hook-up and conversion rate does improve marginally, but not a whole lot surprisingly. Of course, when the mackerel are touchy, all these hooks reduce the strike rate and as such, I always stick with the tried and true nose hook and stinger treble towards the bum. Fortunately, the next hooks found their mark and the pilchard in the prop wash went off – we soon had a spotted mackerel onboard. The next fish on the boat was also a spotted mackerel and shortly after, a live bait was eaten by a spanish mackerel, which made its way to the ice box. All three students had now landed a fish, so I felt the release valve open and the pressure reduce. Now I don’t want anyone to get the wrong idea – I don’t put a massive amount of pressure on myself to the point that I’m stressed – it just nags away at me enough that I’m glad when it’s gone. We ended up having

a good day catching a great feed and the crew were a pleasure to have on the boat. They picked up my style of fishing very quickly and worked as a team. We pulled the hooks on a few more fish which, as I said, is part of the fishing for mackerel deal, however we also lost a few fish to sharks, and that I don’t like. Though the end result was a day I enjoyed, and plan B wasn’t necessary. On the fishing front, we have had some heavy rain and minor flooding, and this has pushed the fish down into our estuaries. Whiting are in good supply in the Brunswick River and mangrove jack are going nuts in the lower river. Tiny jewfish are thick, to the point that they’re a pain… eating worm bait meant for whiting in the river and whiting and dart on the beachfront near our river mouths. Offshore is still all about mackerel this month and, if the weather allows, with wahoo and mahi mahi out wider. I sincerely hope for no cyclones, no flooding and lots of fish!

Emil got the day started by landing a nice spotted mackerel.

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FISHING EVENTS COMPETITION

DATE

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2023 Moura Muddy Water Apr 7-9 Classic Fishing Competition

Moura, Qld facebook.com/groups/MouraFish Stocking/

Boyne Tannum Apr 28-30 HookUp

Gladstone, Qld boynetannumhookup.com.au

Blue Marlin Classic Apr 28-30

Gold Coast, Qld gcgfc.com.au

Women Fishing May 6 - Jun 3 Queensland Classic womensfishingclassic.com.au Sanctuary Cove May 25-28 International Boat show

Gold Coast, Qld sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

Rainbow Beach Jun 11-17 Family Fishing Classic & Expo

Rainbow Beach, Qld rainbowsportsclub.com.au

VMR Bundaberg Jun 23-25 Family Fishing Classic

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AFTA Tackle Show Aug 3-5

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Woodgate Beach Sep 15-17 Hotel Fishing Classic

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Baffle Creek Family Sep 18-23 Fishing Festival

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Flathead Classic Sep 26-28

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Gold Coast Shoot Oct 13-15 out

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Fitzroy River Barra Oct 20-23 Bash

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To have your competition listed in the calendar, please phone (07) 3286 1833 or email ads@collins.media Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 31

Mark had fun with a few pelagics off Ballina.

Cracking jacks, flatties and pelagics

ELLO all and welcome to April. Even though we have officially finished with summer, the warm weather and strong northerly wind seem reasonably settled and don’t appear to be going anywhere in a big hurry. Compared to this time last year, when the region was suffering its

Ballina Bait & Tackle by BRETT HYDE

worst flooding in recorded history, for the most part it has been fairly dry – apart from a couple of days when the heavens opened up and dropped about 150mm in certain areas. While this may sound

like a lot of rain in a short space of time, it was definitely needed in various parts of the region, and has certainly not affected the fishing at all. With Easter around the corner and the current

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condition of the river, the next few months are looking very good in Ballina, and on the Northern Rivers as a whole. This summer seems to have produced a significant number of mangrove jack compared to other years. I do think that now more people – who may not have done so in the past – are targeting this iconic species, but I will add that jack quantities and quality do appear to be stronger this year. Live bait have been working quite well, but 4-5” soft plastics have also accounted for plenty of the larger models that have been landed over the past couple of months. As is usually the case, most of the fish have been caught in the afternoon or at night, with most rock walls and bridges on the Richmond River producing at some stage over summer.

The other species we heard a little more than usual about was trevally. There seems to have been an increase in their numbers this summer and, as they are an aggressive species and fight particularly well, there were some great stories and captures across the summer, from the mouth of the river all the way up to Broadwater. The bulk of the catches were flathead or jack bycatch, but if you want to target them a little more, I suggest sticking to a 3.5-5” soft plastic with a fairly quick and erratic retrieve. Unfortunately, both whiting and mud crabs continued to disappoint across the summer period. We have however, seen a slight improvement in the number of whiting, however they are still not to the level we would expect at this time of year. The increase seems to * continued P33

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Cracking mangrove jack, flathead and pelagic fishing to those instead. On the 42 and 48-fathom lines, there were some excellent catches of snapper and pearl perch. For the most part, the current has continued to run fairly hard, but slow pitch and octopus jigs – along with bait such as slimy mackerel, squid and mullet – have all accounted for some good numbers of fish. The fish aggregating device also had good numbers of mahi mahi hanging around it, as well as plenty of under-sized kingfish. It has been a very popular spot over the past few months and the first boats to arrive most mornings have managed to catch a few quality fish. Mahi mahi have been intermittent – taking al-

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ll appointed” “versatile and well appointed”

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Mangrove jack enjoyed the warm weather.

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beamy”

If all else fails and they won’t play the game for you, it may be time to head wide and chase some snapper. Well, that’s about all from me for this month, until next time – tight lines!

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or money” “great value for money”

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most anything one day and then being very picky the next. My only suggestion is to have some live bait, pilchard and a handful of lures ready to go and be prepared to try the lot.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

410 Challenger

LOW

in particular. The northerly wind keeps blowing in cold water, which shuts the mackerel down or causes them to move on altogether. Currently, Brunswick Heads, Evans Head and Woody Head all appear to have a better run of them, so if you’re really keen to catch one, it may pay to look in those areas first. I’m confident that in the next few weeks the weather gods will be kinder to us and we will start to see consistent numbers of both spotted and spanish mackerel. Trolling dead bait has been the most effective method of catching them to date but, as the numbers of live bait on the close reefs increase, mackerel may turn their attention and preference

be in the numbers being caught using surface lures as opposed to bait. Spots such as Mobbs Bay, Pimlico and North Creek are starting to produce more fish, which proved to be lots of fun, while at the same time produced a bit of by-catch in the form of bream and flathead. The warm weather has seen the vast majority of flathead move into deeper water in order to beat the heat. Metal blades, vibes and soft plastics being hopped off the bottom have accounted for good numbers of fish, while live bait have tempted the larger models – especially when it was cooler. Outside has been very stop start, for mackerel

* from P32

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 33

03 5022 7 03 5152 3 03 5562 6 03 5443 5 03 5822 2 03 5174 1 03 9397 6 02 6024 6

Mischa Porter took a decent 16kg tuna from the Iluka Wall on live bait. Sydney angler Red Arthur landed a nice longtail tuna on a live garfish during a recent trip to Iluka.

Warric Johnston from the Gold Coast hooked into a nice longtail tuna only to have the wire leader break metres from the gaff.

Mischa playing a tuna, with gaff man Warric Johnston at the ready. Page 34 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Tempting tuna and toothy macks

ISHING along the beautiful Clarence Coast of northern NSW during the past month has been fair to middling for most species, with the only fish playing silly hard to get being toothy tailor. While yes, a few reasonable choppers have been taken from the headlands on lures and the beaches on flesh bait, the two key elements of size and numbers are sadly lacking. Hopefully this begins to change for the better as we head further into April, when the first early morning cool southwesterly begins to blow, which in turn brings the shoals of baitfish closer to shore. Inside the Clarence River, flathead are always one species that are not hard to find yearround, while reports of decent numbers of legal whiting have dropped dramatically compared to last month. A hell of a lot of mullet – both bully and flat tail – are beginning to move around. This has Mischa and I rubbing our hands in anticipation for the start of the winter run of big jewfish, which should be in full swing by the end of the month. Offshore catches have

Just Jew by TYE PORTER

been dominated by excellent catches of both spotted and spanish mackerel, with more than the occasional longtail tuna being boated as well. Depending on the wind direction, the southern grounds off Minnie Waters fires up one day, then bang, a sudden wind change and all the action happens at the northern end of our region – up at Black Rocks and the warmer water of Shark Bay off Woody Head. The breakwalls have produced a handful of longtail tuna on live garfish, however due to poor water colour and strong wind, the usual big schools of fish are yet to make an appearance. Sadly, the Iluka breakwall has changed a fair bit since last season, with about 30m of once fishable rocks slightly west of the stadium collapsing and, while yes you could still fish this area, a three-piece gaff would be needed. To make matters even worse, a large amount of sand deposited itself smack in front of the

stadium, with there being probably no more than a few metres depth at low tide now. What this means is that the stadium is now near-on impossible to fish in any swell or a northerly wind over 10 knots because the water sprays right up to where you put your gear. Here’s hoping we get a great ground swell to chew the sand out and move it on before the season is over, otherwise a hell of a lot of days are going to be wasted out of what has already been a very short season of four months. Gold Coast mangrove jack whisperer Warric Johnston paid us a visit for a few days recently and spent his time chasing tuna along the wall with Mischa. The very first day they went out, Mischa nailed a nice longtail tuna and Warric did a great job of gaffing it while I took a few happy snaps. Day two saw Warric hooked into a solid fish that was to live to fight another day as the wire on Warric’s rig snapped while he was guiding * continued P35

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Tempting tuna and toothy macks * from P34

the fish in for Mischa to gaff. After that, the wind blew it’s head off, making fishing impossible, but at least the fishos had a taste of what the wall had to offer on any day, given the right conditions. Now, when you talk about dedication to fishing, this month’s award goes to our friends from Sydney – Red Arthur and jewfish guru HT – who paid us a flying 36-hour visit to fish for tuna. Their story reads like Mischa and Warric’s in that Red’s first bait into the water was snavelled by a nice longtail tuna, while the next morning before they headed back to Sydney, HT got absolutely smoked by a behemoth spanish macker-

el that at last report was passing the tip of Peru. Needless to say, they returned to Sydney with a couple of good fishing stories and were both keen as mustard to come back to Iluka as soon as their work commitments allowed. When live baiting for tuna, it always pays to have about 6-8” of wire on because you never know when the toothy mackerel are going to play ball and eat the bait you sent out for tuna. Regardless of what YouTube says, wire does not affect your hook-up rate on tuna at all and the number of fishos I see getting snipped by big spaniard each year is laughable. April will see the big pelagics dominate offshore catches, and most rocks along the fishable

headlands and breakwalls will more than likely have a land-based crew on them too. Jew catches should come to the fore this month as the big smelly critters move into the lower reaches of our river systems in large numbers – greeting the travelling schools of mullet that will begin to make their way to sea on their yearly spawning run. The mullet run will also increase the number and quality of bream and hopefully tailor, as they too take part in this annual tradition. As long as the rain stays at manageable levels and no floods are encountered, April should be one hell of a month for fishing. Until next month, safe fishing.

Mischa’s tuna at the surface prior to gaffing.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 35

Venom Barra Spin 6kg

THE Venom Barra Spin is a brilliant 6kg spin stick designed for those fishing tight structure with spin gear. With a light tip to allow for easy casting, the barra spin is a 5’9” spin stick with plenty of backbone to deal back the punishment fish such as barramundi, threadfin, mangrove jack and fingermark can dish out. Rated for 6kg line, the Venom Barra Spin features a full Fuji fit-out, from winch to guides, and is built with A-grade cork grips for extra sensitivity. Ideal for use when throwing lures into tight corners where big fish are found, the Venom Barra Spin complements the range of existing Venom baitcast rods perfectly. Visit wilsonfishing.com

Hard Armour Game Leader

PLATYPUS Hard Armour Game Leader is available in convenient 50m hanks and 100m lure bag packs, including a re-usable lure bag.

Page 36 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Available in both Clear and Ice Blue colours, Hard Armour Game Leader has been formulated to offer anglers extreme abrasion resistance, controlled stretch and outstanding knot and crimp strength. Proudly made in Australia by Platypus – with over 120 years of fishing line design, development and manufacturing experience – Hard Armour Game Leader provides anglers with the confidence to take on Australia’s hardest fighting fish. Available in breaking strains from 100600lb. Note that the 600LB is packed in 40m and 80m packs. Visit tackletactics.com.au

even with the neck cut, the ﬁsh dies a very slow agonising death. As ﬁshos, we all try to do the right thing, so treating our catch with respect should be a priority for us. The iki jime method is endorsed by Australia’s National Code of Practice for Recreational and Sport Fishing and more information can be found at ikijime.com Visit theikipik.com

The IkiPik

Nomad Squidtrex 95mm

THE easiest and safest way to iki jime your catch! The IkiPik features a super-sharp stainless-steel spike with protective cover mounted in a highly visible robust BPA plastic grip handle, with built-in bottle opener and lanyard attachment! The IkiPik is a highly visible, safe and easy to use iki jime device that penetrates easily through the fish to ensure a quick end to your catch and longer lasting fillets for you and your family. The name ‘IkiPik’ is derived from the term ‘iki jime’, a Japanese term for the method of paralysing a fish while maintaining the quality of its flesh. Simply cutting the neck of a fish may seem to do the job, but by using the IkiPik to euthanise your catch you will be instantly killing all nerve endings, thus stopping the release of lactic acid, which breaks down the flesh leaving it sour, soggy and less tasteful. Another important reason to use the IkiPik is to treat your catch humanely. When placed in a bucket or catch tank,

THE Squidtrex uses patent-pending technology to combine a soft vibration lure into a squid-shaped body to produce a unique action designed to trigger bites. It can be jigged vertically, cast or even trolled. The soft TPE construction allows strength and durability matched with realistic movement of the tentacles, which waft and wiggle in the water to entice bites when sinking or even at rest. The heavy duty through-wire construction and heavy gauge hooks allows you to fish this lure confidently for big fish. An extra eyelet on the belly allows for additional hook placement as required. The weight placement allows the Squidtrex to be trolled with a crazy vibrating wobble at medium to high speeds. It can also be cast towards structure or feeding fish and worked back sub-surface on a straight or stop start retrieve. Visit tacklewarehouse.com.au

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budget, the three new rod ranges will have you ready for Dendoh battle. Visit daiwafishing.com.au

Berkley Pro-Tech Pop 50 Seapower and Tanacom Z and X

DAIWA’S growing stable of electric reels welcomes a selection of new rods for 2023, with the Dendoh rod line-up expanding on the arrival of the 22 Seapower, 22 Tanacom Z and 22 Tanacom X. The 22 Seapower is the premium offering of the three new releases and features a Glatech/X45X blank, Fuji silicon carbide guides, heavy duty Alps swivel tip and a custom Daiwa bent butt. Three models feature in the range designed for Australian anglers and unmatched performance. The Tanacom Z is true to the famous name when it comes to design and quality, with a Glatech and X45 blanks delivering power and performance, while the componentry is equally performance focused courtesy of Fuji silicon nitride II ceramic guides, Alps heavy duty swivel roller tip and a custom Daiwa bent butt. The range features two models, the 55XHST and 66XXHS. The Tanacom X rounds out the new Dendoh rod releases and features a composite graphite blank, Seaguide heavy duty stainless-steel frame guides and either a Seaguide swivel roller tip or a standard heavy duty tip guide. The range features five models including a handheld specific B63-3/4 model designed to use with smaller 300-size electric reels. Whatever your electric rod needs or

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THE Pro-Tech Pop 50 is designed to make maximum noise with minimum bulk where it counts. Sitting tail down at rest, its slender rear design ensures maximum hook exposure for the subtlest of bites. It’s super easy to fish, casting like a bullet and able to be worked slow or fast depending on the target species. The Pop 50 has proved deadly on a wide range of fresh and saltwater species in testing, so much so, it has become a favourite of some of the veteran anglers in the Berkley Pro Team already. Available in eight colours and from $16.99 recommended retail price. Visit berkley-fishing.com.au

ATC Combat Plus V2

THE ATC Combat Plus V2 200 (right hand) and 201 (left hand) have been upgraded with new components and improved internal parts. Featuring the new open-frame V-shaped line guide, which improves smoothness

at high drag pressures and, with less resistance when casting, total distance is significantly improved. Improved brass gears are at the heart of the extra strength and durability, making this reel more robust and able to handle more pressure from heavy drag pressures and the constant casting of larger lures. This design allows the Combat V2 to maintain its solid 12kg drag pressure. The Combat Plus V2 comes with shallow and deep spools and an additional power handle for offshore use – opening up uses to include Murray cod, barramundi, black jewfish, snapper, mulloway and fingermark up north to kingfish, snapper, salmon, Murray cod and mulloway down south. Visit wilsonfishing.com

Fuji O Ring in K Frame

FUJI set the benchmark when they introduced the K-frame anti-tangle frame over 10 years ago. Launched after five years of intense research and development, K-frame guides are the preferred choice for rod builders all over the world. The Fuji O ring is the world’s largest selling and the industry standard for dependable durable cost-effective rod guides. Coming together for the first time, the O ring is now available in the K-frame guides, bringing class-leading technology to price-conscious consumers and delivering best-in-class technology for rod building. The O rings are available in KT, KB, KL and KW as well as a LG tip to match. Visit frogleysoffshore.com.au Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 37

Saltiga Rough Ride

SALTIGA Rough Ride construction is unique. The dimpled golf ball-like pattern stabilises the lure, both in the cast through the air and when retrieving through the water. The dimples create a stable pocket of air hugging the lure’s body, preventing tumbling and aiding in swimming stability in rough water conditions. On the inside, Saltiga Rough Ride features a thicker stainless-steel throughwire construction, which ensures no matter what you hook, there’s no way the lure can let you down. Connecting you to the fish is a hybrid BKK hook setup – a system favoured by many topwater experts. Saltiga Rough Ride features BKK Raptor X treble hooks on the belly hanger, adding more weight central to the lures body to aid in producing an enticing action. On the tail, a BKK Diablo inline single hook is positioned perfectly to provide a solid hook set. Featuring Daiwa’s Adel foil to resemble the pearlescent underside of baitfish, the colour patterns of Saltiga Rough Ride are some of the best saltwater colours ever and give options for all conditions. If you’re looking to target trevally, mackerel or other speedsters off the top, look no further than the Saltiga Rough Ride. Visit tacklewarehouse.com.au

Page 38 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Penn Fathom II Lever Drag

method that features anti-loosen braid construction, and eight-carrier premium iZanas PE fibre, Slammer Braid is a tightly woven, smooth and high-performance casting braid. Designed for saltwater applications, Slammer Braid features a multicoloured metered design for accurate depth finding in deep dropping or jigging applications, as well as a variety of spool lengths – from 150m top shots to 400m and 3000m variations to fill the deepest of reel spools. Visit pennfishing.com.au

PENN Fathom II Lever Drag two-speed reels are compact but loaded with big features. Featuring a full metal body for durability, the Fathom II Lever Drag series offers power and speed in a lightweight package. Now with a new cosmetic and a variety of updates, including the pull-to-turn preset knob to eliminate accidental changes to the drag. These reels are engineered to be fished with superline and cover a wide range of fishing applications, such as jigging, live baiting and bottom fishing. Visit pennfishing.com.au

Black Mamba Spin Rods

Penn Slammer Braid PE X8

PENN Slammer Braid PE X8 is a premium quality Japanese braid, featuring the same quality and dependability you’d expect from the Slammer range of spinning reels. Constructed with a unique braiding

THE beauty and the beast that is TT Fishing’s Black Mamba. At the pinnacle of the spin range, with its stealth black and silver finish and fast actions, Black Mamba rods are designed to cast long, drive your lure effectively, feel the most subtle bites and set hooks solid. Black Mamba rods are built on high performance 36/40T Toray carbon blanks and feature Fuji tangle-free K guides with alconite rings, Fuji reel seat and split hard EVA grips for increased feel. High-end precision, power and performance in the hands of tournament anglers and hardcore social fishos alike. Take your lure fishing to the next level. Visit tackletactics.com.au

www.bnbfishing.com. au

Angler’s Almanac April 2023

May 2023

DAY Above Below Sat.

Sun. FIRST GIBBOUS

Mon.

Tue.

4 Wed.

5 Thur. FULL MOON

7.49pm 8.34pm

8.12am

9.16pm

8.56am

9.57pm

9.37am

Sun.

LAST GIBBOUS

Mon.

Tue.

Wed.

Thur. LAST QUARTER

Fri.

Sat.

15 LAST CRESCENT

Sun.

16 Mon.

Tue.

Wed.

Thur. NEW MOON

20 Fri.

21 Sat.

22 Sun.

23 Mon. FIRST CRESCENT

24 Tue.

Wed.

Thur.

Fri. FIRST QUARTER

Sat.

Sun.

Tue. FIRST GIBBOUS

Wed.

Thur.

4 Fri.

5 Sat.

Pink Moon. Also Pashal Moon:

is the first Sunday 11.21pm 11.01am Easter Sunday to fall after this full moon

11.44am

GOOD FRIDAY

12.06am 12.31pm

EASTER

7 8

DAY Above Below Mon.

10.39pm 10.19am

Fri.

Sat.

Notes

7.27am

FULL MOON

8 9

EASTER SUNDAY LAST GIBBOUS

1.47am

2.15pm

Wed.

EASTER

Thur.

2.43am

3.14pm

3.44am

4.15pm

4.45am

5.17pm

5.46am

6.17pm

6.44am

7.13pm

7.39am

8.05pm

8.30am

8.55pm

9.19am

9.44pm

Fri.

Sat. LAST QUARTER

Sun.

Mon.

15 LAST CRESCENT

Tue.

16 Wed.

Thur.

Fri.

10.07am 10.31pm

Sat. NEW MOON

10.54am 11.19pm

20 Sun.

11.43am

Mon.

12.34pm 12.09am 1.26pm

Tue.

1.01am FIRST CRESCENT

Wed.

2.20pm

1.54am

Thur.

3.13pm

2.47am

Fri.

4.06pm

3.40am

Sat.

4.56pm

4.32am

25 26 27

Sun. FIRST QUARTER

5.21am

Mon.

6.28pm

6.07am

Tue.

7.11pm

6.50am

Wed.

5.43pm

Minor Times: Add 6 hours

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8.34pm

8.14am

9.16pm

8.55am

10.00pm

9.38am

29 30 31

Notes

10.47pm 10.24am 11.39pm 11.13am

Partial (penumbral) lunar eclipse very early morning

12.07pm

Tue.

1.21pm

7.32am

Sun.

Mon.

12.55am

7.52pm

12.36am

1.06pm

1.36am

2.08pm

2.39am

3.10pm

3.41am

4.11pm

4.40am

5.09pm

5.35am

6.02pm

6.26am

6.51pm

7.14am

7.39pm

8.01am

8.25pm

8.48am

9.12pm

9.35am 10.00pm 10.24am 10.50pm 11.15am 11.42pm 12.09pm 1.03pm 12.36am 1.56pm

1.30am

2.48pm

2.23am

3.36pm

3.13am

4.22pm

4.00am

5.05pm

4.45am

5.47pm

5.27am

6.28pm

6.08am

7.09pm

6.49am

7.51pm

7.30am

Minor Times: Add 6 hours

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 39

BOATING & marine Insights into boat insurance

Resorting to a new location N OTICED the continual t r a n s fo r m a tion and growth of that sand bar into a sand island slightly inside Amity Point off North Stradbroke Island? For those familiar with the area, the changes to the ‘four reds in a row’ beacons at the eastern end of the Rous Channel – which is now pushing a more direct line to South Passage Bar, past Toad Bank – has created a very unique location. Many folks have chosen it as an ideal location for a day’s boat outing, as the photo shows.

And the explosion in popularity of those candy-coloured cabana-style sun shelters along with traditional umbrellas and blue marquees has synergised perfectly with the bank’s transformation. With this change comes a few relevant marine insurance points. First, with a couple of sharp drop-offs at some points around the sand island, your day will be all the more enjoyable if you have your vessel set up right, with the correct anchoring system and technique. Second, with the increasing popularity of

the area and fast-running water at some stages of the tide, you’ll probably feel a lot more relaxed if you have full marine insurance cover for your boat. Vessels can move quickly and unexpectedly when skippers are trying to secure the perfect mooring position between craft that are already anchored in the location. There’s the possibility that the arrival of another vessel in inexperienced hands could impact adversely on the security of your well-set anchor. Similarly, the location’s proximity to

South Passage Bar and the rocks along the Rainbow Channel near Amity created a situation where if things go pearshaped, potential damage could be expensive. Keeping a watchful eye on your vessel is always a good idea when you’re ashore on what would have to be one of the most picturesque ‘beaches’ in southeast Queensland. Third, all that fancy sandbank survival gear mentioned earlier – cabanas, shade shelters, inflatable chairs toys, super-trick kettle-style barbeques and other

Keeping a watchful eye on your vessel is always a good idea when you’re ashore on what would have to be one of the most picturesque ‘beaches’ in southeast Queensland.

paraphernalia – will most likely not be covered under your marine insurance policy. The items onboard such as marine equipment, fishing rods and other fishing gear – if properly stowed – probably will be covered. Check that the new cabana and associated gear is covered under your household policy when it is away from the house… and on a sandbank in the middle of the bay. As always, what is and what may not be covered will always be decided in accord with the terms of insurance as defined in your insurance policy’s product disclosure statement. That’s why it is so important to read it thoroughly and to note any special conditions and excesses, which should be explained clearly in your PDS. If you need further information, you can contact Nautilus Marine Insurance on 1300 780 533 for any boat insurance requirements.

Advice in this article is general and might not apply or be right for you. Before acting on it, consider its appropriateness having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Nautilus Marine Insurance is a business name of NM Insurance Pty Ltd ABN 34 100 633 038 AFSL 227 186 (NM Insurance), the issuer of Nautilus Marine Boat Insurance. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement at nautilusinsurance.com.au before deciding whether to purchase a policy.

Page 40 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

www.bnbfishing.com. au

BOATING & marine The spacious deck provides ample room for fishing.

The new E695HT – the most advanced Cruise Craft built to date.

Cruise Craft introduces its brand new E695HT fishing weapon

HE E695HT is the most advanced Cruise Craft built to date. This versatile and reliable vessel is designed to provide the ultimate fishing experience for anglers of all levels, styles and techniques. The spacious deck provides ample room for fishing, while the comfortable seating and large cabin area

make for a convenient, spacious and relaxed angling or spectating environment. This model boasts a stack of new features, including the CCB PanaView windscreen, fibreglass moulded side dive door, dual fuel fillers, central 45-litre live bait tank and many more, plus the newest generation of Cruise Craft hull design.

Specifications: • Hull length – 6.95m • Maximum beam – 2.48m • Weight BMT – 2950kg • Maximum number of people – 7 • Maximum fuel capacity – 350 litres • Maximum horsepower – 250hp Contact Cruise Craft on 07 3390 4877 or via cruisecraft.com.au

The CCB PanaView windscreen is one of the included features.

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The E695HT was designed to provide the ultimate fishing experience.

Features include a fibreglass moulded side/dive door. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 41

BOATING & marine

Mercury releases all-new V10 350hp SeaPro outboard

ERCURY Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, introduced the 5.7 litre V10 350hp SeaPro outboard at the Miami International Boat Show recently. Engineered for commercial applications, this outboard combines the latest innovations and advanced technologies from Mercury’s all-new V10 outboard platform, with the performance, durability and reliability customers have come to know

and expect from the SeaPro brand. Mercury Marine president John Buelow said, “We continue to see an incredible response to the recently introduced V10 platform we introduced last year and are pleased to offer the V10 SeaPro outboard, specifically tailored to the needs of the commercial market.” “Demand among commercial operators for reliable high-horsepower outboards with connected digital technologies

The all-new V10 350hp SeaPro outboard. Page 42 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

has grown significantly in recent years. “We engineered the 350hp outboard to exceed their expectations.” In addition to the V10 SeaPro outboard, Mercury also launched an advanced electric steering system. Instead of hydraulics, the system utilises a compact electric steering actuator – freeing up space in the boat while allowing for cleaner transom rigging. In addition, it consumes less than half the electrical power as electro-hydraulic steering – leaving more power for running other onboard accessories. The system is compatible with all Mercury V10 and V8 Verado and SeaPro outboards with the Advanced MidSection, as well as Mercury Racing 450R and 300R outboards with Racing AMS. “We are also excited to launch electric steering,” John said. “The system provides a premium boating experience with enhanced steering responsiveness and quiet hydraulic-free operation. “Our builder and dealer partners will also appreciate how fast it is to install.” Mercury electric steering is available for multi-engine boats with compatible engines in April and will be available for single-engine boats in late 2023. The V10 SeaPro out-

board features and benefits include: • Efficient all-around performance – calibrated to deliver full performance on standard 91 RON fuel, the V10 SeaPro outboard also features efficiency-enhancing technologies such as advanced range optimisation • Easy to maintain – with an industry-exclusive top-cowl access door that allows oil to be checked or topped off without cowl removal, and gearcase oil can easily be drained from the torpedo • Heavy duty gearcase – with advanced hydrodynamics for control, efficiency and durability, the gearcase is validated at three times the lifespan of recreational gearcases • Reliability and durability – high-horsepower SeaPro engines such as the V10 outboard generate ample torque at lower RPM levels, enabling operators to work their outboards hard without placing excess stress on the engine • Industry exclusive battery management technology – the idle charge battery management system monitors battery voltage and when necessary, adjusts engine RPM at idle to boost alternator output •Exceptionally smooth and quiet – recision-tuned intake and exhaust, combined with fuel-injector covers, minimise noise for more comfortable all-day op-

erating, and the V10 SeaPro model is 28 percent quieter at cruise than a leading competitor • High-output alternator – a 150-amp alternator helps support a heavy load of onboard accessories • Adaptive speed control – maintains engine RPM despite changes in load or conditions, with no throttle adjustment • Digital throttle and shift controls – standard DTS controls deliver smooth quiet shifting and instant throttle response with the option to integrate the latest SmartCraft digital technologies • Joystick piloting for outboards and electric steering – the V10 SeaPro outboard is compatible with Mercury joystick piloting for outboards for approved multi-engine applications, as well as the latest Mercury electric steering system, with JPO providing fingertip control to move forward, sideways or even rotate in place for easy, confident manoeuvres in tight spaces and electric steering enhancing handling and responsiveness for exceptional vessel control, particularly when using JPO. The V10 SeaPro outboard will be available in the second half of 2023. To find out more about the all-new Mercury V10 350hp SeaPro and the advanced electric steering system visit merc urymarine.com/en/au/

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BOATING & marine Stacer launches new Proline models

TACER Australia has announced the launch of its latest offering – the Stacer 359 Proline SE and Stacer Proline 379 SE – perfect for inland fishing enthusiasts. Based off the popular Proline series, the Proline SE has all the benefits of the original while incorporating deeper side sheets. This feature makes it more ideal for larger dams and lakes and is an added safety feature when the little ones are onboard. Other standard features include two aluminium bench seats – one with a glove box – a transducer bracket and safety rails. Available options include a bimini cover to keep off the worst of the

sun, rod holders, carpeted fuel-tank rack and paint vinyl wrap. Drilling down into the numbers, the 359 Proline SE has a capacity of two people, with 1.6mm aluminium bottoms and a maximum horsepower of 15. This is the perfect option for a solo fisho or a couple of friends who want to head into the dam or river. The 379 Proline SE is setup to accommodate three people, with a maximum horsepower of 25 and featuring 1.6mm aluminium bottoms also. For those with a small family or an extra companion, this boat is perfect for exploring Australia’s waterways. Stacer general manag-

er Sam Hayes said, “We are thrilled to bring the Stacer 359 and 379 Proline SE models to the market.” “We are confident that this boat will exceed the expectations of our customers and provide them with the ultimate fishing experience.” The Proline models join those existing in the family – including the original Proline, the Angler and the Territory Striker. All Stacer’s boats are handmade in the Gold Coast by a team of dedicated local tradespeople. To find out more about the new Proline SE range, head to sta c e r. c om. a u /a lu m i n i um-boat-range/prolines

A great option for inland fishos looking to chase freshwater prey, the Stacer new 379 Proline SE.

The Stacer 359 Proline SE is a step up from the original Proline.

Why aluminium trailers are better than galvanised steel

ITH the growing demand for trailers, it’s important to choose the right material for the job. While both aluminium and galvanised steel have their own unique benefits, aluminium has proven to be the superior choice for many reasons. One of its biggest is durability. Aluminium is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material, making it perfect for trailers that are exposed to the elements. It does not rust or deteriorate, making it a long-lasting option for those looking for a durable trailer. In contrast, galvanised www.bnbfishing.com.au

steel can rust over time, especially when exposed to saltwater or other corrosive substances. Next on the list is the difference in weight between the two. Aluminium trailers are much lighter than their steel counterparts, making them easier to manoeuvre and transport. This is especially important for smaller vehicles, which may struggle with the added weight of a steel trailer. One upside that many customers love to hear is the low amount of maintenance required – aluminium trailers require very little upkeep, making them the ideal choice for those who want a

hassle-free solution. They are also easy to clean and maintain, with no special treatments or coatings required. A great benefit for aluminium is its high eco-friendly status. Aluminium is a sustainable material that is recyclable and does not produce harmful emissions. It’s a great choice for those looking for an ecological option for their trailer. So, what about the cost? While aluminium trailers may be a little more expensive upfront, they are a cost-effective option in the long run. They require less

maintenance, last longer and retain their value better than galvanised steel trailers. Move Boat Trailers district sales manager Adam Crossley said, “At Move, we are committed to providing our customers with the best trailer options available.”

“That’s why we recommend aluminium trailers over galvanised steel. “With its superior durability, lightweight design and low maintenance requirements, aluminium is the clear winner.” For more information, visit moveboattrailers. com.au

Aluminium trailers require less maintenance, last longer and retain their value better than galvanised steel trailers. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 43

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Page 44 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

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CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER BRISBANE | Northside Marine P: 3265 8000, 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall, QLD www.northsidemarine.com.au BRISBANE (BAYSIDE) | Wynnum Marine P: 3396 9777, 31 Fox St, Wynnum, QLD www.wynnummarine.com.au

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BRISBANE (REDLANDS) | Marine Care Qld P: 3186 5270, 30 Gordon Rd, Redland Bay, QLD www.marinecareqld.com BRISBANE (NORTH) | Brisbane Yamaha P: 3888 1727, Bruce Hwy, Burpengary, QLD www.brisbaneyamaha.com.au BRISBANE (SOUTH) | Stones Corner Marine P: 3397 9766, 117 Old Cleveland Rd, Stones Corner, QLD www.stonescornermarine.com.au BUNDABERG | Bundaberg Marineland P: 4130 0500, 95 Targo St, Bundaberg, QLD www.bundabergmarineland.com.au GOLD COAST | Whitewater Marine P: 5532 4402, 10 Hinde St, Ashmore, QLD www.whitewatermarine.com.au GYMPIE | Watson’s Marine Centre P: 5482 2135, 52 Wickham St, Gympie, QLD www.watsonsmarine.com.au MACKAY | Reef Marine P: 4957 3521, 26 Prospect St, Mackay, QLD www.reefmarine.net

asy Tilting.*

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SUNSHINE COAST | Sunshine Coast Yamaha P: 5346 9981, 14 Machinery Ave, Warana, QLD www.sunshinecoastyamaha.com.au TULLY | Cavs Marine & Outdoor P: 4068 2222, 59504 Bruce Hwy, Tully, QLD www.cavsmarine.com.au

TWEED COAST | North Coast Yamaha P: 02 6680 3322, 4 Lucky Ln, Billinudgel, NSW Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 45

Dredging to commence on Coomera River

SIGNIFICANT dredging campaign that will improve navigation in the Coomera River will soon get underway. The Coomera River is the primary access way for a wide variety of commercial, industrial, residential and recreational waterway users.

The $2.5 million project is scheduled to commence in April and will deepen the Coomera River channel. The Coomera River channel dredging project will be delivered through the Gold Coast Waterways Management Program 2022-26. Sediment which is un-

suitable to be used on the beach will be transferred via a pipeline for processing at the Coomera dredged sediment management facility. The Coomera River channel dredging project is expected to be completed by late June 2023. Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said,

The Coomera River channel dredging project is expected to be completed by late June 2023.

“Over time, sand and sediment are deposited, forming shoals in the rivers and waterways, which may inhibit access or be a safety issue.” “This dredging will remove shoaling in the navigation channel from Sovereign Islands to the Hope Harbour entrance,” Ms Scanlon said. Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said: “It’s great news for recreational users and for the marine precinct businesses who rely on access to the Coomera River and connection to the Broadwater via this channel.” Gold Coast Waterways Authority chief executive officer Chris Derk-

sema said, “Dredging of the Coomera River channel is maintenance we undertake every two years under the Waterways Management Program.” “We’re committed to maintaining open and safe access for all waterways users. “Two dredges will be working simultaneously to ensure minimal disruption during this campaign. “Reusing the sand is an extra benefit of the project. “A p p r o x i m a t e l y 35,000sq m of sand from downstream of Sanctuary Cove will aid sand nourishment at northern Gold Coast beaches,” Mr Derksema said.

Keen Angler Program

An illustration of red snapper and a large otolith at more than 4g. Photos: CSIRO

The image is a transverse thin section of the otolith. The series of small white dots on the left side of the section mark the growth zones counted for an age estimate of 43 years (dorsal).

Page 46 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

HE Keen Angler Program collects fish skeletons from recreational fishers to monitor the status of fish stocks. Fisheries Queensland uses the biological information from these fish frames – and other information provided by recreational and commercial fishers – to assess fish stock health and help evaluate the effectiveness of fisheries management arrangements. The Keen Angler Program relies on volunteers. You do not need to be an experienced fisher or fish regularly – you simply need to put your frames in labelled bags – provided by Fisheries Queensland in a sampling kit – store them in your freezer for a short time and deliver them to a drop-off location or make contact to organise collection.

The fish frames you provide are processed in the Fisheries Queensland laboratory – where the frames are measured, the sex determined and the otoliths removed to estimate age. The frames sought are of the following fish caught in coastal waters from Rockhampton to the Gold Coast. Rocky reef fish • Snapper • Pearl perch Coral reef fish • Red emperor • Saddletail snapper (large-mouth nannygai) • Crimson snapper (small-mouth nannygai) • Spangled emperor Inshore fin fish • Dusky flathead • King threadfin • Sand whiting • School mackerel • Spotted mackerel • Tailor • Yellowfin bream Other fish • Spanish mackerel

Drop-off locations Drop off your bagged and labelled fish frames at any of these participating businesses during normal business hours: • Tackle World Bundaberg, 22 Quay Street, Bundaberg, Qld 4670, (07) 4153 4747 • Cooloola Coast Seafoods, 69 Gympie Road, Tin Can Bay, Qld 4580, (07) 5486 4990 • Gardiner Fisheries, 1 Karoonda Road, Rainbow Beach, Qld 4581, 0404 853 232 • Fisho’s Tackle World Hervey Bay, 59 Torquay Road Pialba, Hervey Bay, Qld 4655, (07) 4128 1022 • Tackle Land Sandgate, 78 Rainbow Street, Sandgate, Qld 4017, (07) 3269 5060 • Coomera Houseboat Holidays, 84 Shipper Drive, Coomera Qld 4209, (07) 5502 6200 Find out more about monitoring programs in Queensland at daf.qld. gov.au

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PERFORMANCE

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BRISBANE STONES CORNER MARINE 117 Old Cleveland Rd, Stones Corner (07) 3397 9766 www.stonescornermarine.com.au

GYMPIE WATSONS MARINE CENTRE 52 Wickham St, Gympie (07) 5482 2135 www.watsonsmarine.com.au

HERVEY BAY BAY CITY BOATING 55 Islander Rd, Pialba, Hervey Bay (07) 4124 6988 www.baycityboating.com.au

BUNDABERG BUNDABERG MARINELAND 95 Targo St, Bundaberg (07) 4130 0500 www.bundabergmarineland.com.au

MACKAY REEF MARINE 26 Prospect St, Mackay (07) 4957 3521 www.reefmarine.net

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 47

Greg and a 97cm Tin Can Bay barramundi.

Captain Jonathan Mallard from Great Sandy Straits Sports Fishing had a hot Tin Can Bay barramundi bite recently.

Jacks and barra fire up

G John Maslen gave the local mangrove jack a good touch up.

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Page 48 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

’DAY crew, I trust you’re all well and have had a good few weeks to wet a line. Typically, February and March are write-offs weather wise, as we tend to get wind and rain, so 2023 didn’t disappoint in that respect. However, there were plenty of opportunities to wet a line and keep your bum dry, if you picked the day to go out on the water. Myself… not so much. The day after Australia Day, I may have had a little tumble on a skateboard and did a slight mischief to myself! But, I’m on the mend and will be back at it on my next day off. By all reports, plenty of fishos made the most of the dryer days through February and March, getting out and enjoying the Great Sandy Strait. With much of February blowing, the estuaries were a good place to seek a bit of shelter, and the fishing was red hot for most. With many days over 30C, mangove jack fired up and were not in short supply, plus there were a number of good-sized barramundi caught after February 1.

Tin Can Bay by CHRIS RIPPON

Jacks were very responsive to strips of fresh mullet and small live bait, with healthy by-catches of cod, barra, grunter and bream all reported. Samaki Redic DS80 Jerkbait hard-bodies have been a stand-out for local lure fishos, with Bad Biddy and UV Chartreuse Ginger Squid being a couple of very popular colour choices. With most of the barramundi in our area coming as by-catch, many dedicated in-the-know

anglers are keeping their honey holes well and truly under lock and key, as they can be a pain to catch. But, if you are catching mangrove jack in an area, that spot will be a good place to start looking for barra. Try larger live bait – a legal-sized whiting makes for a great livey. I have a saying – the best thing you can do with a legal whiting is stick a 9/0 in it. I don’t know of too * continued P50

Leo Maslen went out with his dad and had a ball.

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TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 49

Jacks and barra fire up * from P48

Local fisho Megan took a belter of a trout from out the front of Rainbow Beach.

Shane Kimlin landed a snapper on an overnight trip over the Wide Bay Bar.

Shane Kimlin scored a nice red emperor on a Nomad Squidtrex. Page 50 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

many fish that won’t eat a whiting. For the lure tossers, try using a bigger presentation too – 100-130mm hard-bodies and plastics are going to be good options, and keep an eye on your sounder while you’re moving around the creeks. We spent an hour working a snag-lined bank the other week for no love, moved out to the sand flats and found a school of good-sized fish chilling on the flats 30m away from the bank. Though barra being barra, they had lockjaw on this occasion. We will be back though. With the big tides and a bit of fresh flowing towards the end of the month, the crabs were on the march again. Carlo, Kauri and Snapper creeks all produced quality crabs. Big fresh bait and a long soak overnight seemed to work well. But if you are only out for the day, try working your pots every hour or so and, if there is no activity, move them around and play the lotto. I’m sure you’ll see an improvement in your catch rate. Unfortunately, we have received a few complaints in the shop about grubs tampering with other fishos’ crab traps. It’s such an un-Australian thing to do and is very frustrating to hear about. If you do catch someone in the act, make sure you take some photos or video of them stealing your hard-earned catch before going over and having a polite word. Make sure to get the registration of the boat too. Once you have video evidence, give Queensland Fisheries Fishwatch hotline a call on 1800

017 116 and report them. If the authorities aren’t told about the problem, they can’t send the resources to tackle it! In the bay, the recent water quality has been nice and clean. Over the past couple of months, a few anglers have been out and about catching squid and, for this time of the year, in not bad numbers either – though I’m yet to see some pictures, so it may just be stories… we’ll see. The ever-reliable spots seem to be holding a few – the front of the leads running into Carlo, the moored boats in the inlet from Norman Point and up to Crab Creek have all been producing. So, it might pay to dust off the outboard, get out and give it a go this weekend! Offshore fishos made the most of the good weather, sneaking out wide and catching some great fish. Trout and red emperor were the order of the day, with the Nomad Squidtrex making its mark in our local water. Good catches of pearl perch, snapper, tuskfish and big cod were all reported, and the pelagics were also out in force. Good numbers of spanish mackerel were caught between closures in February and March. And both longtail and mack tuna have kept the offshore fishos entertained – it won’t be too much longer before we have them in the bay. I have already started to tie some Tuna Candy and Clouser flies up for the upcoming season. Well, that’s me done for another month, stay safe and as always, get out there and enjoy our little slice of heaven. Tight lines! The Chandlery Bait and Tackle for all your fishing and boating needs.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 51

Bader beat the sharks for a decent mack tuna.

Greg scored his first longtail tuna.

Casting and spinning for tuna

I Ray was super happy with a nice inshore trout.

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> Hervey Bay > Fraser Island > Sandy Strait

T’S tuna time and that means it is also casting and spinning time. If you’re feeling a little rusty, it’s best to iron out any shortfalls before you see a bust up in front of you. Groups of friends come onboard and there’s nothing worse than seeing one preson not converting. When I guide clients, I try my best to give everyone the best opportunity to boat fish. The time I allow for you to achieve this is not fixed – it’s governed by so many factors that are outside of my control. So, do yourself a favour and learn how to cast.

Get into the best fishing action!

Fraser Guided Fishing by TRI TON

Tuna fishing requires long accurate casts, which require good timing when you sweep the rod through the air. Tuna fishing also entails a certain level of proficiency, which a sound level of technique and mechanical understanding will give you. Learn how to twitch a lure. If you own a rod, you can do these things before you come out. Don’t be that fisho who casts over everyone else or that angler who never hits the school. Or worse still, the entire crew who do all the wrong things. If you are honest and realise you are lacking

in ability, reduce the crew size. You will instantly make the experience better by making more room for yourself. When you become proficient, feel free to increase the crew size. Can you retrieve the lure correctly? This may sound like a ridiculous question, but I wouldn’t mention this if it didn’t play on my mind. “Spin fast” means wind the lure as fast as you can in a linear track, nothing else. It doesn’t mean “That’s fast enough” or “They can’t catch up to it”. You would be amazed * continued P53

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Nathan jigged a lovely trevally.

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SCAN QR CODE

Tide Times

AUSTRALIA EAST COAST AUSTRALIA, EAST COA WADDY POINT 2023

AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – WADDY POINT (FRASER ISLAND)

Time

LAT 24° 58ʼ S LONG 153° 21ʼ E Times and Heights of High and Low Waters JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH Scott had seared tuna for dinner. m

Time

1 16 1 16 1 16 Casting and spinning for tuna 0427 1013 1548 SU 2214

1.65 1.01 1.48 0.62

0324 0859 1426 MO 2102

1.52 1.02 1.47 0.60

0543 1238 WE 1740 2311

1.88 0.96 1.27 0.74

0447 1138 TH 1641 2232

1.90 0.85 1.30 0.66

0413 1142 WE 1625 2150

1.80 1.02 1.23 0.92

0312 1023 TH 1532 2053

1.85 0.90 1.29 0.84

Time

0503 1158 SA 1751 2309

Time Zone –1000 APRIL m

1.82 0.81 1.41 0.84

Time

0454 1136 SU 1740 2316

2.03 0.59 1.60 0.69

Time

0456 1135 MO 1753 2322

MAY

1.77 0.68 1.58 0.80

LAT 24° Times and H

Time

0522 1141 TU 1810 2357

1.85 0.56 1.82 0.76

0518 1.78 0422 First, 1.67 0621 1.94 0540 2.05 0507 * from P52 gear is up to 1.84 scratch.0421 1.96 he struggled to 0543 1.86 0544 2.05 1.77 0607 1.78 2 1126 2 1311 0.97 17 1028 0.97 2 1216 0.88 17 1228 0.71 2 1224 2 0532 0.94 17 1120 0.76 0.72 17 1213 0.51 1158 0.58 17 1213 0.52 A good guide do 1.36 SU 1825 1.40 TU 1536cast 1.40a heavier at the things 1.29 stick, MO 1647someone 1.27 will TH 1833 tuna FR 1747 1.36 1.51 MO 1824 1.73 TH 1739 FR 1650 TU 1826 1.69 WE 1851 1.94 2255 0.60 0.56 2354 0.69 2336 0.55 2228 0.75 2351 0.73 exactly 2248 that0.87and help schools and who has never caught a 2154missing 0600 1.89 0511 1.84 0658 2.00 0629 2.20 0550the 1.89appropri0518 2.07 0618 1.89 0005 0.60 0.73 0045 0.74 you bring snapping line twice. tuna will tell 3 1222me0.91about 18 1138 0.87 3 1341 0.80 18 1312 0.58 3 1242 0.86 18 1206 0.63 3 1247 0.63 18 0628 3 0004 0607 1.77 18 0648 1.69 2.03 1.36 1916 1.34 SAhe 1843 1.45 TU 1742 1.35 WE 1642 And FR second, FR 1821 1.34 SA 1751 1.47 MO 1856 1.61 TU 1246 0.46 WE 1224 0.49 TH 1245 0.52 ate tackle. tuna fishing. 2332 0.58 2247 0.50 2336 0.78 2330 0.62 1904 1.86 1857 1.81 1930 2.04 Everything from gear get the spin fast “Twitch the lure” is 0557couldn’t 0638 1.98 2.01 0034 0.64 0030 0.44 0627 1.94 0609 2.17 0030 0.64 0050 0.57 0044 0.69 0.75 19 1234enough. 4 0732 2.04 19 0716 2.31 0.85 less 4 1308 19 1245 0.53 4 0650 1.90 19 0709 1.96 4 0640 1.74 19 0133 0.74 ratio to frame something4 1308 I use 0.77materials 0729 1.61 WE 1832 1.33 TH 1743 1.36 SA 1411 0.74 SU 1353 0.48 1311 0.55 WE 1318 0.45 1250 0.43 FR 1316 0.54 SA 1856 1.41 SU 1838 1.59 TU TH play an integral part as he1951 did,1.38his acregularly because it’s 2340 When 0.44 1932 1.56 1927 1.70 1943 1.97 1930 1.93 2009 2.11 to what 0017 a good the not as easy as sounds 0642tion 0008it 0.57 2.18 was so 0111 untidy 0.60 0118 0.36 0.69 reel is. 0019 0.50 0106 0.60 0135 0.60 0125 0.67 0.78 5 20 5 0806 2.05uncon20 0802 2.36Listen, 0713 2.04 5 0702if 1.98 0.62tip bounced 5 0721 1.89 20 0747 1.87 5 0717 1.71 20 0222 0654 2.21 0810 1.52 the20guide to get correct, and as 1324rod TH 1349 0.79 FR 1840 1.40 SU 1441 0.71 MO 1433 0.43 SU 1335 0.70 MO 1322 0.46 WE 1335 0.50 TH 1349 0.47 FR 1318 0.40 SA 1347 0.59 2022 made 1.41 2020 1.65 1957 1.79 says it 1928 isn’t1.48 good, 1920 ask 1.71 the 2023 2.06 2005 2.04 2047 2.14 a guide it is1916all1.32 about trollably and 0043 0.56 0033lure 0.37 roll around 0147 0.57 in its 0206 0.35 0055 0.61 that 0104 why and take ad0.44 0142 0.60 0220 0.67 0208 0.68 0.82 keeping it 6simple. 6 0838 0748 2.08 21 0729 2.33 6 0734 1.99 21 0736 2.20 6 0751 1.86 21 0826 1.74 6 0756 1.65 21 0314 2.03 21 0848 2.33 0850 1.45 vice. MO 1401 to the boat. 0.75 and Control of the reel 0.51 back 0.69 FR 1427 SA 1412path 0.64 TU 1356 0.42 MO 1509 TU 1514 0.43 TH 1401 0.47 FR 1420 0.52 SA 1349 0.42 SU 1417 0.66 1956 1.33 1.46 2051 1.44 1.55 2001 1.82 2030 1.88 2103 2.10 2043 2.13 2124 2.14 be the one who he boated2107 a 1.71Don’t 1958 rod tip is necessary to 1937 Eventually 0118 0.56 0125 0.32 0222 0.57 0252 0.42 0130 0.56 0149 0.44 0220 0.63 0309 0.77 0255 0.71 0405 0.86 hears “I told you so.” while watching his keep the line 7 0822just2.08tight 22 0818fish, 7 22 7 0803 1.98 22 0817 2.13 7 0825 1.80 22 0905 1.62 7 0840 1.58 22 0929 1.39 2.41 0907 2.00 0933 2.22 1502animate 0.73 SU 1458friend 0.44 get 0.69 WE 1554 0.48 1432is 0.44 TU 1538 TU 1426 FR 1427 0.47 SA 1448 0.60 Make sure 0.61 saidWE reel many. SU 1424 0.48 MO 1451 0.73 enough SAto2031 1.33 2032 1.52 2119 1.46 2154 1.74 2027 1.60 2044 1.90 2105 1.95 2143 2.11 2126 2.17 2202 2.09 appropriately spooled While he accepted my the lure, while giving 0154 0.57 0216 0.33 0255 0.60 0338 0.57 0204 0.56 0233 0.53 0300 0.69 0404 0.87 0351 0.75 0456 0.90 8 0854 2.07 23 0909feedback 8 0936 8 0832 1.95 23 0858 2.00 8 0902 1.72 23 0944 1.50 8 0927 1.49 23 1009 1.35 2.42 1.96 23 he and rigged. graciously, 1016 2.05 enough tension to perSU 1536 0.73 MO 1545 0.43 WE 1606 0.68 TH 1635 0.56 WE 1451 0.59 TH 1506 0.49 SA 1456 0.50 SU 1517 0.70 MO 1502 0.57 TU 1528 0.81 Learn couldn’t ceive a take. 2101 1.34 2126simply 1.55 2151 1.49get the 2242 1.75 2057the 1.66 correct 2127 1.95 2144 1.99 2224 2.08 2242 2.02 2212 2.15 knots and use0.60 the approto You may think this is 0307concepts 0229 0.59 0.39 0328work 0.66 phys0428 0.75 0238 0319 0.67 0345 0.78 0506 0.95 0454 0.80 0.94 9 0927but2.03many 24 0959ically. 9 1007 1.90 24 1056 1.86 9line 24 0937 1.83 9 0942 1.61 24 1026 1.40 9 1019 1.40 24 0545 2.34 0901and 1.90leader. 1054 1.31 priateTH not important, MO 1609 0.73 TU 1632 0.47 1516 0.58 FR 1540 0.58 TH 1635 0.68 FR 1714 0.65 1527 0.57 1551 1543 0.69 1611 0.88 0.80 SU MO TU WE 2131 will 1.35 out 2219 If 1.55 others 2230 1.51 2333 1.74 2225 2.00 2307 2.02 2304 2.10 2327 1.94 Again,2130 your1.71guide2211 is a 1.96 onboard times someone 0305the 0.62 0.52 0406 0.75 either, 0528 0.93 0313 0.67 0412 0.82 wealth of knowledge. catching 0439 0.87 fish you 10 with same 0356weren’t 0612 1.00 0602 0.84 0638 0.96 1000 1.98 25 1047 2.20 10 1041 1.82 25 1137 1.66 10 0933 1.83 25 1016 1.67 10 1024 1.50 25 1115 1.32 10 1122 1.32 25 1151 1.28 want0.58to SAmake 1643 it would have been a 0.74They 0.74 kit as your own – the 1718 0.55 1705 0.67 SA 1755 TU WE 1611 0.68 FR FR 1542 MO 1601 0.66 TU 1632 0.90 WE 1631 0.80 TH 1707 0.95 2206 1.35 1.54 1.53 2207 1.75 2256 1.95 2311 1.97 2356 1.94 with you easy gig2314 trying to ex- their day only difference being in 2312tough 0341 0.67 0447 0.69 0450 0.85 0031 1.73 0352 0.77 0517 0.97 0547 0.94 0723 0005 2.03 0019 1.84 1.02 and 11 successful – it’s inwhy1117they the technique. 11 1035 1.92 26 1134plain 26 0650 1.08 2.01 11 1.73 strug1008 1.74 26 1056 1.51 11 1112 1.38 26 1220 1.26 11 0714 0.85 26 0737 0.96 1720 0.74 1805 0.63 1739 0.68 1222 WE 1.49 1610 TH 0.61 1644 SA 0.78 1641 SU 0.76 1729 1246 1.28 1314 1.26 SA 0.99 SU TU WE teresting that I have to TH FR gled. I recently 2249 had 1.35 a fisho 1841 0.82 2248 1.76 2345 1.91 1738 0.89 1819 0.99 reiterate this. Also, make sure your struggle all day. 0423 0.75 0010 1.54 0005 1.54 0144 1.73 0437 0.87

Time

0529 1143 TH 1833

0032 0609 FR 1214 1909

0119 0652 SA 1247 1947

0210 0739 SU 1325 2029

0304 0830 MO 1410 2117

0401 0926 TU 1458 2209

7 0459 1028

WE 1550 2306 0558 1134 TH 1648

9 0005 0657

FR 1244 1751

10 0106 0758 SA 1357 1900

11 0206 0858 SU 1514 2023

0638 1.06 0008 1.93 0056 1.85 0117 1.97 0120 1.76 0307 12 1113 1.84 27 0543 0.87 12 0547 0.96 27 0834 1.14 12 1045 1.63 27 1145 1.38 12 0715 0.96 27 0844 1.01 12 0827 0.83 27 0841 0.93 12 0950 TH 1759 0.73 2343 1.34

FR 1219 1.81 1852 0.70

SU 1156 1.62 1818 0.69

MO 1321 1.35 1937 0.89

SU 1642 0.66 2333 1.77

MO 1725 0.88

WE 1221 1.29 1737 0.86

TH 1401 1.24 1850 1.05

FR 1413 1.31 1902 0.93

SA 1446 1.29 1935 1.01

MO 1621 2152

TH 1411 1.27 1902 0.92

FR 1537 1.28 2015 1.05

SA 1528 1.41 2034 0.92

SU 1554 1.36 2050 1.00

TU 1715 2307

0513 0.84 0120 1.55 0109 1.57 0304 1.76 0536 0.97 0043 1.86 0127 1.90 0208 1.78 0227 1.94 0224 1.70 0408 13 1155 1.76 28 0654 1.02 13 0702 1.04 28 1033 1.10 13 1125 1.51 28 0810 1.09 13 0850 0.92 28 0954 0.96 13 0930 0.77 28 0936 0.86 13 1035 FR 1840 0.71

SA 1306 1.62 1942 0.74

MO 1241 1.50 1906 0.71

TU 1445 1.25 2043 0.92

0048 1.36 0243 1.61 0231 1.63 14 0617 0.93 29 0836 1.12 14 0846 1.07

SCAN QRSA CODE 1239 1.66 1925 0.68

0208 0734 SU 1328 2013

1.41 1.00 1.57 0.64

SU 1401 1.46 2037 0.77

TU 1342 1.38 2004 0.72

0359 1.70 0345 1.75 30 1025 1.11 15 1032 0.99 MO 1512 1.34 2133 0.78

WE 1521 1.30 2115 0.71

MO 1720 0.72

TU 1250 1.28 1824 0.97

0029 1.76 0153 1.81 0247 1.92 0317 1.75 0331 1.92 0320 1.67 0504 14 0658 1.04 29 0951 1.05 14 0959 0.81 29 1039 0.88 14 1022 0.69 29 1015 0.78 14 1113 TU 1215 1.39 1810 0.79

WE 1428 1.23 1942 1.03

WE 1345 1.29 1921 0.84

TH 1616 1.25 2105 1.02

SA 1647 1.46 2216 0.80

SU 1718 1.46 2235 0.89

0412 1.80 31 1129 0.90

TU 1628 1.27 2224 0.77

New Moon

Justin and a solid queenfish.

SU 1634 1.54 2200 0.86

MO 1644 1.47 2158 0.96

WE 1802

First Quarter

Full Moon

MO 1726 1.68 2304 0.80

TU 1725 1.58 2256 0.90

TH 1148 1844

1.61 31 0449 1114 0.59

FR 1713 1.33 2216 0.95

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SA 1636 1.36 2134 0.99

0149 1.78 0308 1.79 0355 1.98 0412 1.75 0430 1.89 0407 1.64 0008 15 0858 1.02 30 1053 0.98 15 1053 0.70 30 1110 0.78 15 1105 0.61 30 1045 0.68 15 0555

0457 1.79 31 1150 1.04

Moon Phase Symbols

FR 1538 1.34 2045 0.90

WE 1800 1.71 2346 0.85

New Moon

Full LastMoon Quarter

Last Quarter Moon Phase Symbols

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 53

New Mo

This year’s major promotional prize for the senior category – a 630 Sea Jay Vision powered by a 150hp valued at over $95,000.

The Boyne Tannum HookUp will be held on Boyne Island in Queensland over the May Day long weekend – April 28-30, 2023.

The Boyne Tannum HookUp encourages entrants to gather the whole family together, grab a group of friends or form an all-female group for the teams category.

Boyne Tannum HookUp 2023 offers over $400k in prizes

Australia’s biggest family fishing competition.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic family fishing event – it’s sure to be a highlight of your year!

Those competing in the event can fish and weigh-in any of the 15 eligible fish species for the chance to win great prizes. Page 54 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

HE twenty-eighth annual Boyne Tannum HookUp will be held on Boyne Island in Queensland this May Day long weekend, from Friday to Sunday April 28-30, 2023. And this year, Australia’s biggest family fishing competition offers its biggest prize pool ever, with over $400,000 worth of prizes to be won! The HookUp is a much-loved and favourite event for thousands of locals and visitors from Queensland and interstate. The 2022 event had over 3400 registered competitors and a record attendance of over 30,000 people in Bray Park across the three days. The Gladstone region is a beautiful spot for fishing enthusiasts, with top spots in abundance – from beaches, creeks and estuaries to a platform on the reef, which makes it one of the biggest tourism drawcards in the area and a standout event for keen fishers across the nation. Junior anglers aged

three to 15 and senior anglers from 16 onwards competing in the event can fish and weigh-in any of the 15 eligible fish species for the chance to win daily and overall cash prizes, totalling nearly $20,000, overall angler trophies and a fishing charter. One lucky junior angler will win a Sea Jay 3.5 Nomad and one senior angler will be taking home a Sea Jay 4.28m Magnum 2 on Sunday night. Boyne Tannum HookUp encourages entrants to gather the whole family together, grab a group of friends or form an all-female group for the teams category, where there’s a chance of winning a fantastic holiday prize to the world famous Heron Island. The Gladstone region boasts the best effort to yield ratio for anglers in Australia – even more reason for anglers to get hooked on the HookUp this April! For those who aren’t fishing enthusiasts or may not have luck catching a fish, there are boat loads of promotion-

al prizes to be won for anyone who purchases a ticket. Promotional prizes are drawn on each of the three nights, including the draw for the major promotional prize for the senior category – a 630 Sea Jay Vision powered by a 150hp valued at over $95,000 – as well as junior and senior tinnies, a Yamaha WR450 motorbike, junior bikes, rods and reels. The Boyne Tannum HookUp offers great activities for the whole family, featuring live music, food and drinks – including a licensed bar – activities for children, amusements, education, information stalls and a fantastic fireworks display on Sunday night. Don’t miss out on this fantastic family fishing event – it’s sure to be a highlight of your year! Register for the 2023 Boyne Tannum HookUp online at boynetannum hookup.com.au • Senior Competitor – $90 • Junior Competitor – $40 • Team entry – $10 per person, with two to four people per team.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 55

Shimano King of Kings Capricorn Coast wrap up

One of the winning fingermark for the Pascoe Boys team taken by Leith Pascoe.

Steve Nutall from team Gone Nuts took out the mangrove jack category.

Coby Pascoe with one of the winning fingermark for team Pascoe Boys.

E are moving into one of the best months of the year, and not because it’s my birthday month… well, kind of… but because I would rate April as the best month of the year to chase most species in our beautiful part of the country. The temperature during the day is comfortable and it’s starting to crisp up at night. This month, we’re going to concentrate on the competition that was held on the first weekend in February – the Shimano King of Kings Capricorn Coast. This year’s event was another fantastic success, with anglers from far and wide who travelled to the region to take part in one of the best social comps around. The rules are super simple – they put a list of target species up and, to win the prize, all you have to do is submit your biggest two captures for the target species. You lay your fish down

Capricorn Coast by JOHN BOON

on the supplied brag mat, take a photo and, when you’re in service, submit it through the SCF Australia app. We have been using this app for different events for a long time, yet it’s surprising how many anglers are still unsure of how to use it properly. The best part of this app is that you can take a standard photo on your phone and save it to your phone’s photos. Then you can later upload the image to the app when you’re in service. You don’t have to take the photo with the app if you don’t want to. This is a very easy way of letting the electronics take care of the scoring. The comp registration and presentation were held at Beaches Restaurant at Rosslyn Bay in the Keppel Bay Marina complex.

Mark Boss with one of his team’s winning barramundi at 118cm. Page 56 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

The owners of Beaches Restaurant were absolute legends, and nothing was a problem for them. The parrilla for both the rego and preso was spot on. The food was legendary and something everyone should experience. This year, the weather was spot on and allowed for most teams to fish wherever they wanted. The wind was minimal, with the only concern being storms. We had a nasty storm roll through the coast on the Saturday morning but, from all accounts, there were no issues with any of the teams. The tides for the competition built with the full moon. With the extra run, we knew it was going to make it difficult to fish the estuaries, but we love our barramundi and threadfin salmon, so that’s what we chose to do. Our team – Humminbird Lucky Craft consisted of myself, Luke Peisker and Matty Arnold – got off to a great start on the Friday morning, with a goodsized barra and thready on the deck within the first hour of fishing, thanks to Luke. Unfortunately, that was the only success we had on day one. It was a good feeling still – to submit a couple of the target species. The uncut scoreboard * continued P58

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 57

23 South Lures took out the giant trevally category for the third year in a row. Who will challenge them in 2024? Mark Boss with a cracker mangrove jack caught over the event weekend.

Shimano King of Kings wrap up * from P56

Mark Boss and Steve Nutall from team Gone Nuts took out the barramundi and mangrove jack category. Well-deserved as these fishos are weapons.

The Reel Fisherman of 1770 took out the threadfin salmon prize, having fished with Nathan Johnson of Guided Fishing DownUnder.

The Pascoe Boys consisted of Coby, Liam and Leith and always do well each year, taking out multiple species in 2023. Page 58 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

was interesting after day one, with team Gone Nuts submitting their two barra for 230cm. An average of 115cm per barra would be super hard to beat. Threadies were still within reach, so that’s what we concentrated on for the rest of the comp. The giant trevally were hotly contested, with previous champions 23 South Lures in top spot and team Shimano not far behind. The ever-reliable Pascoe Boys had top spot for five different species. We fished hard and late on day one, so opted for a sleep in on day two, which was a good call because we missed the early morning storm. The late start rewarded us with a hot bite not long after we launched. We added another good-sized barra of 93cm and Luke landed a cracker thready – our biggest for the comp at 129cm. I was very unlucky to not pull another big thread onboard – with hooks pulling and resulting in only a giant thready cheek scale – which was heartbreak-

ing because I had it on for a few minutes. We fished hard for the rest of the competition and even tried a night fish to see if we could up our bag. Unfortunately, that was it for us, but we had a great time on the water and learned lots. The Sunday afternoon presentation started at midday, which gave anyone who had travelled a chance to get home before the weekend was over. The rest of we locals hung around to catch up and have a few beverages. Once again, 23 South Lures took out the $5000 for the giant trevally category. It will be interesting to see if anyone can challenge them in 2024. I know team Shimano were hot on their heels. Gone Nuts held on to their early barra charge to win the crown with 230cm. The thready crown was won by The Reel Fishermen of 1770. These fishos were lucky enough to be onboard with local charter guru Nathan Johnson from Guided Fishing DownUnder.

Their two-fish bag went 271cm, which was proper quality for big tides. The rest of the category winners all received $500 Shimano gift packs: • Bats Fishing – emperor 2/160cm and tuna 2/154cm • Pascoe Boys – queenfish 2/199cm, fingermark 2/168cm, jewfish 2/250cm and grunter 2/132cm • Gone Nuts – mangrove jack 2/99cm • Still Current – flathead 2/92cm and lobster 2/75cm • Fish Ticklers – mackerel 2/193cm and whiting 2/56cm. There were heaps more categories and awards that haven’t been listed, so if you’re keen to check out the others, make sure you jump on the Shimano King of Kings Facebook page and have a look at the scoreboard. Make sure you give them a follow to stay up to date with the next comp. The Shimano King of Kings Capricorn Coast 2023 was a huge success and everyone is looking forward to the 2024 event.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 59

The more remote your adventure the more confident you need to be in your gear.

What a way to get back into fishing, with a cracker golden trevally on light gear.

Five tips for getting back into fishing

A A few new additions to the kit after checking out the stock levels.

This is when preparation pays off, avoiding that fish lost right at the boat. Page 60 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

FTER some time away from fishing, renovating to sell, moving north and getting re-established, adventure angler and Tackle Tactics professional angler Robbie Wells wanted to share his thought process and preparation for getting back on the road, on the water and into fishing. Most of you would probably agree that there is a fair bit of confidence that goes into fishing to make you a successfully angler. Whether that be fishing at your local secret spot or out there finding new ground to fish – confidence in yourself and your gear fuels you. It’s what gives you the commitment to keep you and casting – waiting for that one bite that you’ve invested all that time into. Confidence gained from the time you’ve put into researching the right rod and reel combina-

tion, lures, time of day, location, tides and other factors to maximise your chances of success on that target species. With changing priorities, some of us have somehow drifted away from being able to pursue our passion for fishing. Unfortunately, this happened to me recently… well for five months and one week to be precise!

Now, it would be easy to simply grab that tacklebox of gear and combo – already pre-rigged from that long ago last session of course – and go fishing. You can almost guarantee that Murphy’s law would come into play, you’d be hooked up to a cracker and start thinking is your gear up to scratch after such a hiatus from fishing. * continued P62

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 61

Five tips for getting back into fishing * from P60

The tools of the trade when you are on a fishing adventure. Take the time to service and check your gear over.

So many things can go wrong or fail from personal-induced gear failure… basically, being a bit lazy and thinking I’m only going for a quick fish. I started thinking about my gear and couldn’t remember the last reel service or sounder download, and even if my reels were full of line, were my batteries full to avoid potential problems on that first mission back out there? Below are five tips, elements or steps that I went through to ensure that everything ran smoothly when I was back on the water after such a lengthy break away from fishing. Rods and reels When did you last service your reels? It’s time to consider whether they need a rinse and a lube. It’s also a great idea to service your reels if you know that you’ll

Sue putting the gear through its paces, confident in the rod, reel, line, leader and what’s tied on the end.

Page 62 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

be having a break from fishing, ensuring that they’ll be in better working order when it’s time to fish again. This may even be the case for reels that you use for a particular type of seasonal fishing. Check your rods for cracked guides or tips, along with checking the reel mounts and any other fittings. Line and leader Are your reels fully loaded with line and, depending on where you last fished and your target species, how dirty or worn is your line? You may want to strip some line off if it is badly impacted. After the length of time that I was off the water, I also took the opportunity to replace and re-tie leaders on all rods. This gives me the confidence to cast and fish hard, knowing that I have a solid connection to the lure and the fish. Lures and terminal tackle First, are your hooks rusty or blunt on your jig heads, jigs, hard-bodies and other lures? Do they need sharpening or replacing? Do you have the right hook size and jig head weight combo for the target species? How’s your kit of gear looking? Do you have the right profile and sizes of plastics, the correct jig heads and a few spares just in case? You’re gearing up to get back into the game, so it’s important that you have the right gear for your chosen adventure. Tackle bag This is also a great time to reorganise tackle trays and restock

them in size, weights, profiles and so forth – ensuring that you have it and that you can find it in the frenzy of a hot bite. It’s also worth checking tools such as pliers and scissors to ensure they’re functioning effectively or need to be oiled or replaced. I also ensured that my Pro-Cure Scent and leader was stocked up ready to go. Boat and trailer I then also spent some time on my boat – those who follow my adventures may know that I often travel into some extreme environments, a long way from support. When was the last service done on the boat? I took the time to check and charge batteries, check trailer lights, check and service wheel bearings and check the trailer brakes. I also ran the motor on the muffs and checked the steering, throttle and other moving elements of the motor, power and steering setup. Finally, I gave the sounder a once over and downloaded the latest maps and software. I hope the above helps you on your next mission – I’m sure that if I didn’t go through this list, my first trip back after five months could very easily have ended in disappointment. I was fortunate enough to hook a solid golden trevally on fairly light gear, while chasing some bludgers. So, I’m happy I made the effort to be ready and stoked with my first fishing sortie. How good’s Australia! Robbie Wells For Tackle Tactics

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0428 753 293 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 65

TOURING & exploring

The Portland tram ride provides a rundown of the town’s history.

Being able to drive your car onto Pivot Beach meant a good base to set up to watch the waves and kids.

Second mini lap leg around Australia

O A novelty for a Queenslander, thousands of seals in the sheltered water near Lady Julia Percy Island.

The author was happy with his tuna capture. Page 66 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

UR initial plans for the mini lap trip were to head to South Australia and follow the coastline west. However, as we had no fixed bookings apart from Lucky Bay near Esperance and around Ningaloo and Exmouth, we had the ability to change tack on the fly. As we soon found out, there was also a downside to not booking anything, particularly for busier periods such as Australia Day. Being flexible and adaptable when travelling will work in your favour. It probably took a month or more for us to work this out and to come to terms with the fact that we weren’t going to see everything on our list – especially in six months. To see and experience more places, a year or two would have been ideal, but that wasn’t

Family Adventures - Part 2 by BEN COLLINS

possible for this trip. Even with that amount of time, you’re only scratching the tip of the iceberg in terms of places to visit and things to experience. We sure do have a massive and awesome country. Our destination on the southwest coast of Victoria was Warrnambool. The massive caravan park was on the coast,

which meant we could wash the dirt from inland Australian off and get some saltwater on our skin. The only issue was that most of the caravan spots were designed for 18’ vans, needless to say it was a little challenging trying to get the 22’6” JB into a few of the sites, so we ended up in the boondocks. This was a blessing in * continued P67

Freshly caught and cooked southern bluefin tuna, also great as sashimi.

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TOURING & exploring Second mini lap leg around Australia * from P66

disguise because there was a nearby path to the beach, which meant we were able to have a dip moments after quickly setting the van up. Having not seen the ocean for a while, we needed to reinvigorate ourselves and get some saltwater back in our veins, so to speak. Warrnambool Warrnambool is a bustling coastal village at the end of the Great Ocean Rd. We had enjoyed our numerous free camps watching amazing sunsets, but it was good to hold up for a couple of days in a populated spot. Living in a small space can be challenging at times and when you’re remote, there are often times you don’t see many people. So, a bustling campground was a great way for my wife, daughters and myself to chat with fellow travellers and other kids.

There’s plenty to see and do in Warrnambool, and there were a few standouts for us. Being beach lovers, McGennans Beach was a must, with its white sand and clear blue water. At the time of our visit, there were small waves that were perfect for the kids to hone their bodyboarding skills on. The water was rather icy, and while we didn’t bring wetsuits – mainly because we’ve never had the need for any – it was still great fun. Another place well worth visiting was the Hot Springs Sanctuary at the Deep Blue Hotel. The open air geothermal mineral bathing cost our family $156 for 2.5 hours of pure bliss. I was a little sceptical at first, though I probably ended up enjoying the therapeutic waters – that are naturally rich in minerals – the most. The pools varied in temperature from 42C

and 14C, which meant you could soak up the goodness in the hottest bath then dip into the coolest, invigorating the body and reliving any aches and pains. Having an interest in most things marine, we also visited Flagstaff Hill, where you’re able to experience a day in the life of a nineteenth-century port town. Since we took the kids out of school for this trip, I felt it was important to visit places where the kids could learn outside the classroom while also having fun. Port Fairy As mentioned, the plan was to follow the coastline with an occasional inland detour when required. However, on this occasion, we spot hopped only a few kilometres down the road – 21km to be precise – to the quaint fishing village of Port Fairy. We stayed at the

A lighthouse at Flagstaff Hill.

* continued P68

A gummy shark was caught on the Salty Dog Fishing Charter – one species that’s still on the author’s bucket list. www.bnbfishing.com.au

A highlight of the Salty Dog Charters offering – the deckhand and skipper fillet the fish and share them evenly among all fishos.

Portland is a vital shipping destination and the only deep-water port between Melbourne and Adelaide. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 67

TOURING & exploring

Cape Nelson Lighthouse offers accommodation too.

Second mini lap leg around Australia * from P67

The view from Cape Nelson across to Portland.

The lighthouse at Cape Nelson was under repair when we visited. Page 68 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Southcombe By The Sea Caravan Park which was again jampacked with people and also set up to accommodate smaller vans. By this stage, we were used to the more remote sections of a caravan park – and we preferred them as we weren’t packed in sardine-like. Port Fairy was an awesome little place, and we spent a few days absorbing the way of life and getting a feel for how it would be to live in such a spot. We played cardio tennis and my daughters had tennis lessons – we felt we needed a bit of exercise because we hadn’t done as many walks as we’d hoped. Fortunately, the weather was awesome at around 24C – which the locals explained was as good as it got

– looked like we nailed the weather at Port Fairy. I was also fortunate to receive a family duties leave pass and headed out on a fishing charter. The plan on the fishing charter was to target snapper early and then look for tuna. Unfortunately, the snapper had lock jaw, so a move to target tuna was fast-tracked, which saw six lines out the back and each person selecting a rod. After rigging up in the sheltered water near Lady Julia Percy Island with thousands of seals nearby – a novelty for a Queenslander – we were soon trolling around while keeping a keen eye out for birds. It didn’t take long before five of the six rods hooked up at the same time – unfortunately, mine was the one that failed to get

an initial strike. However, as it was a soft plastic-style lure – similar to a Lunker City Slug-Go – I kept it in the water, which allowed it to slowly sink while mayhem unleashed on the boat, with rods and lines going everywhere. As the boat paused and the skipper got all the lines sorted in terms of which angler was coming in first, my line took off and, with a quick set of the hook, I was on as well. With a bit of shuffling about with rods and line going over and under each other, five of the six hook-ups were landed. Unluckily, one was dropped at the side of the boat, with the hook slipping free as tension was lost. Though I was last to get my fish in – I let the * continued P69

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TOURING & exploring Collins family second mini lap leg around Australia * from P68

others get theirs sorted – I did manage to land the biggest fish. All fish were quickly spiked, bled, gutted, ice put inside their gut cavity and in the kill tank to keep the meat fresh. I’m not familiar with catching southern bluefin tuna – apparently their meat can cook if not looked after properly once caught. After the fish were sorted, we moved to a new spot the skipper had found when we were trolling, which he said looked good for gummy sharks – a species I was keen to catch too. The secret was to put out a good berley trail and wait with your bait near the bottom. It took a few hours but eventually a few gummies were hooked, as well as a broadnose sevengill shark, some

skate and various other fish. I didn’t manage to get one, but that means we’ll just have to make another trip down south at some stage. After a solid effort chasing gummies, skipper Dan made a quick detour on the way home and we managed to put some juvenile snapper – or pinkies as they’re called in this area – in the icebox to round out the catch. We also did a quick troll looking for salmon slightly outside the surf break. I’ve never trolled for Australian salmon and, though not rated as a great table fish in Queensland, down south they are happy to eat them straight after capture. One of the fishos did pick up a salmon, but as it was only small, it was released.

Anyone looking for a great day out with a skipper who is prepared to do the miles and mix it up to put fish in the box, I highly recommend Salty Dog Charters – give Dan a call on 0407 675 284 or check out saltydog charters.com.au The best part was that the deckhand and skipper filleted the fish, which were shared evenly among all fishos. Portland Our last main stop in Victoria was at Portland, where we stayed at RV Camping, run by the Portland Tourist Association. This free camp had water and a dump point available, which were two of the three necessities ticked off. The area was also large, so you could have your own space – if you get there early enough

If you’re lucky enough to do it, touring Australia with the family can be a very rewarding experience. www.bnbfishing.com.au

because plenty of people want to stay in this spot. As the name suggests, Portland is a vital shipping destination and is the only deep-water port between Melbourne and Adelaide. The large port dominates the shoreline for much of the area. Thankfully, outside of this are a few nice beaches, including the ones in Portland Bay and Nelson Bay and the secluded Pivot Beach, which had small waves for my girls to enjoy more bodyboarding. You could also drive your car onto this small beach, giving you a good base to set up to watch the waves and kids. The Cape Nelson Lighthouse was worth a visit, though the café was closed when we were there. You can stay at the

lighthouse too – an interesting way to spend a night. Another attraction was the tram ride in the town that provided a rundown of its history and allowed for sighting various places of interest. When here, we were very lucky to see an elephant seal that had based itself on one of the boat ramps at the port. It seemed very content, lying there with the occasional snort. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the southwest coast of Victoria – it is worth a visit, if you’re down that way. Next month, we cross the border and check out what South Australia has to offer. To keep up to date with our travels and to see more photos follow us on @bushnbeachad ventures

It’s not every day you see an elephant seal having a rest on a boat ramp. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 69

TOURING & exploring The beautiful coastal scenic drive. Stenhouse Bay Jetty once serviced the old dolomite mine before the area became a national park.

Exploring Yorke Peninsula

C The Sturt Bay camping area had only three or four sites.

Troubridge Point Lighthouse was built only recently, around 1980.

Page 70 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

ONTINUING on with our touring of South Australia tale… After a good shower and good sleep, we left early the next day and for the first time on the trip, we left the van behind. We drove along the gravel South Coast Rd to Marion Bay and found the boat ramp and Marion Bay Jetty. We had a good walk out on the jetty and, judging by the squid ink marks left on the boards, I’d say they caught some reasonable squid there during the day and at night under the lights. From there we drove to the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Before we left home, we had bought a weeklong South Australian national parks pass online – it covered many of the parks around South Australia. It’s a great idea and I wish Queensland had the same set up. Once in the park, we stopped at Stenhouse Bay Jetty. This was an old dolomite mine many years

Touring South Australia by CRAIG TOMKINSON

before the park took the whole area over. Here we saw two friendly emus feeding on berries on the coastal shrubs. From there, we went on to Cape Spencer Lighthouse – and wow, what a pretty spot. You could look out from one lighthouse to another on an island offshore and in the background see Kangaroo Island. Next was the Ethel Wreck Beach Lookout, then to one of the loveliest spots I’ve seen in years, Ponpalowie Bay. It’s a little cray-fishing village tucked in the sand hills and is an awesome spot.

We spent some time there and then drove back out of the national park the way we had come in, as unfortunately it’s a one-way road. Once out of Dhilba Guuranda-Innes, we took the Marion Bay Rd and followed it around the coast to Gleesons Landing – one of the better-looking fishing and squiding spots I’d seen on the peninsula. We spent some time at Gleesons Landing as there were a heap of boats that had come in and, as they do at Waddy Point on K’Gari, 90 percent of the boats were launched and retrieved with tractors. * continued P71

The awesome coastline of the Yorke Peninsula area.

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TOURING & exploring Cape Spencer Lighthouse, such a pretty spot.

Yorke Peninsula * from P70

I chatted to one couple who had caught some lovely king george whiting, nannygai and a few squid. From there we headed back to Warooka and to our camp. The next day, because I was up before daylight, I went to Sturt Bay beach, which was about 1km away. I had a squid along the beach, but the weed was horrendous. There was not another person in sight, though I did notice a little paid campground, and quite a few Port Jackson shark egg cases that had washed up on the beach, as well as sea urchin shells. Then it was back to camp to have breakfast. Next, we drove north towards Port Moorowie and did the coastal drive, which takes you right along the coast. It was spectacular,

with wheat paddocks on one side of the road and coastal cliffs and a lovely calm ocean on the other. In one spot, the locals simply swam off the rocks and were chasing crays because it wasn’t fenced off – I loved it, – more than the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. You could pull up anywhere off the road, all hop out and take photos without the crowds, unlike the national park where they fence visitors into small areas. From there, we drove to the Troubridge Point Lighthouse. Wow – a lighthouse built from what looks like normal house bricks, and so high! Then it was on to the wind farm at Wattle Point and Yorketown, then back to camp to relax for the afternoon. Until next month, be safe out there.

by MELISSA FROHLOFF

Whole baked pumpkin in camp oven

Ingredients • 3kg jap pumpkin • 3/4 cup arborio rice • 3/4 cup quinoa • 1 tsp curry powder • 1 tsp mustard powder • 300ml pure cream • 250ml sour cream • One sachet coconut curry vegetables • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 tbsp fresh garlic • 1 tbsp rice bran oil

out the centre of the pumpkin, removing all the seeds and fibre. 3. Rub the pumpkin in oil. Place the pumpkin over a bed of coals for a low heat. Rotate the pumpkin making sure it doesn’t burn. Half cook the pumpkin. 4. Mix the quinoa and rice together. Add all ingredients, stirring to combine the filling.

1. Half cook rice and quinoa according to packet directions.

5. Pour the mixture into the pumpkin and cook in the camp oven over low heat with the lid on for a further 45 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender. Test by piercing the flesh with a skewer.

2. Using a sharp knife, cut a small hole in the top of the pumpkin, removing the stem. Using a tablespoon, scoop

6. Slice pumpkin into pieces and serve as a dish on its own or as an accompaniment to roast meat.

Method

Port Jackson shark egg cases had washed up on Sturt Bay beach. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 2 hrs | Serves: 8 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 71

TOURING & exploring

A stunning view from the Five Rivers Lookout on the Bastion Range overlooking Wyndham.

A dinosaur footprint near Broome – such an amazing record of Australia’s past.

Broome and beyond

Our donkey friend at El Questro Station.

The beautiful sunset over Wyndham. Page 72 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

T came time to leave the rugged Pilbara, with its impressive rocky desert landscapes, stunning coastlines and generally fabulous roads. Our first stop was at Barn Hill Beachside Station, 132km south of Broome and only 9km west of the Great Northern Hwy. And it did not disappoint – great campsites above the spectacular coastline, shady trees, abundant wildlife, plenty of fresh water and… great pizzas! The amenities here don’t have roofs – which we thought was fantastic because you could see the sky and stars. Apparently, some people didn’t approve, according to a few comments. However, for most of us it enhanced the Outback experience. The beaches at Barn Hill are sandy, backed by very impressive sandstone bluffs and, because of the absence of crocodiles, you can swim there.

The Gap Lap - Part 3 by BARRY ‘BILLABONG BAZ’ LYON

Off to Broome – while we had visited before, we hadn’t seen the fabulous dinosaur footprints previously. Apparently, there are footprints scattered along 80km of coastline in this area – the closest to Broome are at Gantheaume Point, just up the road. You need a fairly low tide to view them, and to be reasonably fit to climb down the rocks. However, they were well worth the effort. So, after many months of travelling first south, then west and north, we started steering east’ish, across the Kimberley. It was never our intention to do the Gibb River Rd on this trip with the caravan – we were keeping that for a tented trip. However, the iconic El Questro Station at the eastern end of the Gibb was high on our

priority list. It certainly didn’t disappoint. Great campsites adjacent to the Pentecost River, and a restaurant, bar and store all situated nearby. And, slightly below the restaurant, there were some small natural crocodile-safe pools to swim in that were very popular – particularly as it was October and the weather was warming up. The local camp donkey wandered about, which was something different! There were various four-wheel-drive tracks that showcased this impressive part of the Kimberley, which we explored, and the high points offered some fabulous views across seriously wild country. To us, El Questro was surprisingly busy for that time of year. * continued P73

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TOURING & exploring

Broome and beyond * from P72

However, our Savannah Guide friend Steve – who is stationed there – reckoned it was actually quietening down. Unfortunately for some, each day a recovery truck or two would come into the campground to load up vans, campers or vehicles that had succumbed to the Gibb River Rd. From there, we were off to Wyndham – on the northeast Kimberley coastline. We loved this little frontier town. It had tons of authentic character and history, wonderful landscapes of clay plans, rocky bluffs of the Bastion Range and the vast waters of the Cambridge Gulf. Wyndham is situated near the junction of five Kimberley rivers that enter the gulf – the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest rivers – and the best way to view this vast expanse of water is from the Five Rivers Lookout on the Bastion Range, slightly out of town. The museum was excellent and the caravan park was first class. This was a great area for photographers and naturalists as well as anglers, with wildlife and rugged landscapes in abundance. One day I headed out to Parry’s Lagoon, where waterbirds were congregated in big numbers, as it was the peak of the dry season. Barramundi and tarpon were dying due to the low oxygen levels in www.bnbfishing.com.au

the water and were being feasted upon by kites and jabiru. Next stop was Kununurra, which surprised us as a modern and prosperous town. This was largely because of Lake Argyle, which allows a wide range of farming thereabouts, including for sandalwood. Our van park was on the bank of the mighty Ord River, where people were fishing and water-skiing without having to worry about estuarine crocodiles. It was a lovely spot. Then on to Lake Argyle, which was truly impressive for its size and rugged scenery. Our sunset boat cruise got smashed by the first storm of the season, so while we didn’t get to see the sunset, it was truly memorable! From there we were on the homeward run. We had commitments back at Cape York – including a trip to Chilli Beach – and as it happened, the days had started to hit around 40C, plus the storms were well and truly ramping up. As much as we enjoyed all the exploring, wonderful sights and friendly people on the trip, I have to say that seeing the ‘Welcome to Queensland’ sign slightly west of Camooweal was a wonderful sight! I may be parochial, but Queensland truly is the best state in Australia. All up we covered 23,000km and used between 13.4-16.2 litres

per hundred kilometres towing the van. The jockey wheel rattled to bits on a rough Pilbara road and I had to repair the handbrake on the van at Port Hedland – it lost a bolt. Though… not one flat tyre! The Land Rover Discovery drove faultlessly, except for the dreaded ‘reduced performance’ warning light that came on as we approached Katherine. One battery terminal was slightly loose, so after a disconnect and reconnect, it was good again. And that’s a wrap – we truly do live in an amazing country! Note, this trip was done before the recent flooding in the Broome and Kimberley regions.

The spectacular Pentecost River at El Questro.

The view over Parry’s Lagoon near Wynhdam with some iconic boat trees in the foreground.

find us on facebook • Win prizes • Post your brag • Chat to readers shots and writers • Join in on the fun • See who’s catching banter what • Have a laugh

www.facebook.com/bnbfishing Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 73

The headland at Wyaralong Dam during a regatta. Photo: Ian Newell, Rowing Queensland Facebook page

Logan and Albert Fish Management Letter to Seqwater

E C E N T LY Nicole Whysall of Pest Fishing Adventures wrote to Seqwater with concerns regarding access to public areas. The following are the edited contents of that letter. I wanted to get some perspective on why Rowing Queensland are allowed to shut down the whole public access to Lake Wyaralong for a couple of days a year and how much do they pay for the privilege? And how is it justified when there are other activities on the dam – walking tracks, horse riding, fishing, mountain biking, bird watching – that aren’t allowed access at these times? Not to mention Seqwater overlooking the mountain of complaints over bad privileged unsafe behaviour by Row-

ing Queensland from the public. I have been told many times, while I managed Logan and Albert Fish Management Association social media, about ‘safety’ boats causing wakes that nearly throw or do throw kayakers off and the operators not even helping after throwing someone off, taking over all parking at the boat ramp – which you have now seen video evidence of – and bad language being used. Also, one of our members had launched his Hobie kayak and set it to the said ramp while he drove his car to the top of the ramp, when a ‘safety’ boat reversed down and launched by hitting the brakes and throwing the boat off trailer, causing our member’s Hobie to be displaced and sent off into the dam, with not a care or offer to help to

Kayak fishing is popular at Wyaralong. As the kayak angler in the background learnt, live shrimp was the key to catching fish. Photo: Leeann Payne Page 74 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

retrieve it by the operators. Luckily a member of the public helped him out. When I asked if he reported it, his response was he was “too deflated” from the last reply he’d received from emailing Seqwater, so he did not. The response you give for this behaviour is ‘we have talked to Rowing Queensland’ and yet nothing changes, as this has been going on for years. And Rowing Queensland, over that time, has still been given the privilege of growing their space. As part of LAFMA, it is felt that they get priority for dates for dam use when we are trying to organise a competition date once a year. Twice we have had to change a date that had been booked a year in advance to accommodate rowing and, even after the date change, Rowing Queensland was still racing on the dam the same day regardless, even though we had tried to work around their schedule. Seems like double standards, with rowing getting priority to all other activities on the dam. However, LAFMA doesn’t ask for the dam

to be closed to fishing on this day and actually welcomes the public to come and chat about what we are doing, as it is all about education and removal of noxious fish. Which brings me to the next point of the noxious fish under your control, not only in Wyaralong Dam. We would love to be sent information on your pest management plan that meets your obligations under Biosecurity Act 2014. Working with Biosecurity at the moment, this is something I will definitely be bringing up in our meetings. Seems in dams, the only active control of noxious fish is being done by stocking groups – paid for by stock impoundment permits, government grants and the hard work of volunteers to raise funds to put native fish into dams to predate on the noxious fish. I would love to be told otherwise. So, at Wyaralong, fishers with SIPS aren’t allowed to fish the dam at this time, yet their permit fees are paying for your noxious fish control. With the closures, SIPS holders are losing nearly two percent of their weekend access and are given the excuse that

they can use the rear access, which isn’t easily accessible for boats at all or for some depending on mobility, type of vehicle they have and distance having to travel back to mid-dam bays. The budget for the Olympic Games is $7 billion, surely as part of the budget there can be some investment in a mid-lake alternative access. There are some clever people at Seqwater applying for grants on an on-going basis. Can you confirm or deny that an alternative boat access launching point is part of the future plan, and if not, why not? We know the rowing facilities are being upgraded, so why not at the same time push for a second access point for public use halfway up the dam to minimise the safety risk to the public, especially during construction and times of all events in the future, as I would guess rowing in the dam is only going to continue to grow. Looking forward to a response to all questions proposed and will send this to other media and government members and departments to raise awareness surrounding these issues. Nicole Whysall Pest Fishing Adventures

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Sweltering public holiday trip on Lake Wivenhoe

OLLOWING a year’s absence from my local fishing hole Lake Wivenhoe, a day off work thanks to a public holiday prompted a day on the water in the boat, mainly to give the neglected vessel a run. Great friend and regular hunting companion Michael Sunner accepted the invitation for an early start to run a few lures around to see if we could find a fish or two while burning the cobwebs out of the outboard. Mick’s timing for his drive out from Brisbane was perfect and saw him rolling into the car park at 5.30am, just as I slid the boat off the trailer. With gear stowed below deck, the Honda fired on the first crank and we idled out of the bay while selecting lures to try. A pair of Predatek B65D Boomerangs was clipped to our respective lines, with Mick running the usually reliable purple, while I selected a black beetle for my outfit. Now, not being on the lake since before the floods of February 2022 meant the water levels had changed greatly. My hot spots of the pre-flood months were now under an additional 6-7m of water. That significant increase in water level dictated that this outing was to be an exploration to establish where the fish had relocated. We’d also updated depths on my charts of the lake-bed with the ‘quickdraw’ feature of my Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV sounder, which creates contour maps on the fly. Beetling along at trolling speed, we made our way down the lake to an www.bnbfishing.com.au

Fishing for Sport by NEIL SCHULTZ

area that was very reliable about 20 years ago, when the lake was at a similar level. Unfortunately, it appeared that the memories of the fish weren’t as long as mine and they had not moved back into that spot. After an hour without a touch, I changed lure colours to run an Aussie Gold still in the Predatek B65D Boomerang, while we changed locations. A pass along a nearby rocky bank produced a hook up on a well-fed golden perch on the Aussie Gold, but repeated runs yielded no further action. We continued along the lake’s fringe, sitting in about 7m of water while ‘colouring in’ the chart on the Garmin. Occasionally, to break the monotony, a rod tip would bend to a strike – usually from a schoolsized bass – which was enough to keep us keen. What was surprising was the scarcity of forktail catfish hitting our lures, as these things can be present in plague proportions during summer. Boredom was never a risk because we are both avid observers of natural Australia, so birdwatching and lungfish-spotting whiled away the time pleasantly. Crested grebes dived for fish from the depths in open water, while whistling kites and white bellied sea eagles snatched a feed from the surface. Schools of snub-nosed garfish dimpled the mirror-smooth water among splashes of bony bream taking unfortunate insects.

As the hours ticked by with only an occasional smallish bass finding our lures, the mercury climbed to what could best be described as a withering heat. Every surface in the

boat was scalding to touch and the levels in our bottles of sunscreen dropped as we doused what little areas of skin were exposed to the savagery of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. By about 2pm, our drink supply was exhausted, so we trundled back into the bay to

winch the boat onto the trailer and take some respite in the shade. A year away from the lake and radically different water levels will require re-familiarising ourselves with the lake, which will be enjoyable. Let’s see what our next exploratory outing brings.

Stocking levels of golden perch in recent years have seen this species become a worthwhile target in Lake Wivenhoe.

Michael Sunner was sun smart when scoring a few bass on his Aussie Gold Predatek B65D Boomerang on Australia Day. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 75

Mathew Schwart scored a 101cm Monduran barramundi on a Jackall Squirrel 79.

Monsters over one metre mark at Lake Monduran

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LENTY of fish have been caught on Lake Monduran throughout the first part of this year. While most fish were between 45-65cm, a few over the 1m mark have been caught by more experienced anglers. Now that we’re through the hottest months of the year, and with the weather being nice and consistent over the past month, it’s time to get out and target some big Monduran barramundi. April usually sees an increase in fish activity

Lake Monduran by SAM ROWLEY

at Lake Monduran because barramundi begin to feed up before the cooler weather sets in. With the water temperature dropping, fish will tend to group up in more concentrated numbers and can therefore be found consistently through the same areas of the lake. As always with any fish species, it’s important to be employing the

right techniques in order to get the most out of your time on the water. Areas to search As the water temperature drops so does the thermocline, going deeper into the water column. In this circumstance, the fish have a larger depth range to sit in. However, it also means they don’t have to move * continued P77

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Reforms to stock route network

John Butler took a 101cm on a 7” Castaic Jerky J swimbait.

Lake Monduran monsters * from P76

as far to find comfortable water. You can almost guarantee that there will be large numbers of fish on points and banks close to deep water through autumn. The depth at which these fish will sit depends on how consistent the weather is. The general rule is the more stable and warm the weather, the shallower the fish will sit – generally 1-4m. On a cold change, you will most likely find the fish a little deeper, between about 3-7m for the most part. Lures to use Jerk baits and soft plastics will be your best option still. The most important thing is that you are presenting your lure at a depth as close to the fish as possible. Soft plastics are my preferred option in autumn because I can easily alter the depth I’m fishing by changing the jig head weight and allowing my lures to sink when necessary. Heavier weighted plastics, such as the www.bnbfishing.com.au

Molix Shad 140, are very versatile for this situation – they are heavy enough to get deeper in the water column but can also be fished quite shallow when necessary. If you’re using jerk baits such as Jackall Squirrels, it’s important to make sure your lure is being presented naturally. These lures are designed to suspend in the saltwater, though quite often sink in the fresh. Changing treble and split ring sizes is an effective way to get the lures to suspend better and entice more bites. Though a lot of the fish in the lake are small currently, there are just as many big fish getting around as before. This being said, it’s very important to ensure your terminal tackle is strong enough to handle fish well over the 1m mark. More than likely, these fish will start being caught in larger numbers over the next few months and you don’t want to be at the mercy of weak lures, rings hooks and line.

EW reforms passed in parliament allow local councils to retain more stock route revenue fees to reinvest back into network maintenance. The bill cuts red tape for councils and makes it easier to update stock route maps and management plans. Queensland’s 2.6-million ha stock route network is vital to the state’s $23.1 billion agriculture sector. The Palaszczuk Government passed reforms in parliament to cut red tape and improve the management of the state’s 2.6-million-hectare stock route network. The Land and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 allows local councils to retain more of their stock route revenue fees to reinvest back into network maintenance and makes it easier for drovers to access

and update stock route maps and management plans. Queensland drovers move and feed between 5000 and 330,000 head of stock across the network each year, with higher usage during periods of drought. Resources Minister Scott Stewart said, “These changes will boost the state’s $23.1 billion agriculture sector by ensuring the stock route network remains a cost-effective way to move and feed stock for years to come.” “This reform strikes the right balance by increasing revenue to better manage and maintain stock routes and reducing the burden on ratepayers while remaining cost-effective for drovers,” Mr Stewart said. He added that with the ability to waive fees in cases of hardship, such as during droughts, these

changes will help support our farmers and drovers when they need it most. Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Minister and Rural Communities Minister Mark Furner said, “Stock routes have a rich cultural heritage in Queensland, with many of them following traditional droving routes that have been used for generations.” “With a better-funded and managed network, our hardworking drovers and pastoralists will have access to the resources they need to maintain their livelihoods and support our economy. “The Palaszczuk Government consulted extensively on these reforms, which will mean better services for landowners and drovers right across rural and regional Queensland,” Mr Furner said.

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0432 420 034 themondyman.com Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 77

Tilapia catch at Carrara on the Gold Coast. Photo: Jason Murdoch, Lunchbox SEQ Pest Fishing

Gold Coast City councillor Hermann Vorster at a pest fish-busting day. Photo: Hermann Vorster

Mark Newton and Jason Murdoch with their catch of 242 tilapia at Robina. Photo: Jason Murdoch, Lunchbox SEQ Pest Fishing

Jarrod McFadzean caught a couple of large tilapia on Maroon Dam in Queensland. Photo: Jarrod McFadzean

Targeting invasive species is the new fishing trend. Photo: Jason Murdoch, Lunchbox SEQ Pest Fishing

Page 78 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Pest fish busters take out tilapia and carp

FTER trying pest-fish busting, Jason Murdock was hooked. “In the space of an hour, I caught seven fish and I thought, how good is this?” Mr Murdoch said. “I had an absolute ball and have been passionate about it ever since.” He also discovered that native fish were being surpassed by pest fish, in particular the invasive and aggressive Mazambique tilapia. “You catch them on worms, you catch them on lures – they’re predatory and will attack to defend their nests – they will eat other smaller fish,” Mr Murdoch said. “I thought well why not combine my love of fishing with doing something good for the environment and trying to remove as many of these pests as I can.” Envi ron ment a l ly conscious fishos have helped the flourishing pest-fish busting practice, utilising social media to share images and video of where and how to catch them, noting they cannot be removed

from the site or eaten. Tilapia, introduced in the 1970s as an ornamental aquarium fish, are now considered the cane toads of our waterways and one of the biggest threats to our marine ecosystems. As they can cope in conditions ranging from 8-42C, the spread of this pest fish is now from Victoria to far north Queensland and north of Geraldton in Western Australia, with both South Australia and the Northern Territory watchful. And while thriving in warm water, tilapia can also call salty oxygen-starved water home – they can survive in most water systems. Ti lapia are mouth-brooders, with the females gathering the eggs from the males’ nests and carry them in their mouths until well after they hatch, and both eggs and baby fish can survive long after their mother dies. Invasive Species Council conservation director James Trezise said, “Making sure that it doesn’t get into places such as the Murray

Darling Basin is going to be quite critical.” “Once it gets into the Murray Darling Basin, we’ll find it spread through southern portions of Queensland right through to South Australia quite rapidly. “We are at a point with tilapia, where we can take concerted action to stop its spread across Australia’s waterways. “But that means coordinated action from all levels of government, making sure that we have robust threat abatement plans for invasive fish species,” Mr Trezise said. “We don’t have those for tilapia at the moment.” In Australia, it is illegal to keep tilapia or use them as bait – if you catch tilapia or carp, the fish must be killed humanely and disposed of – no part of the fish can be used. Pest fishing competitions supported by native fish restocking are effective ways to remove big breeding fish and encourage native fish to eat the young of the pest fish.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 79

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Access to stock route network

Rhonda Eyears from Lismore NSW with a 54cm golden perch.

OU may recall an article I wrote in regards to access on stock and water reserves, with fishing in mind. Well, that consultation paper was put out in 2019 and you were all given from April 8 to May 10, 2019 to make comment. I wrote about one council that actually took into account tourism and recreational needs, which included fishing freshwater rivers and streams using canoes, kayaks, tinnies and walking along riverbanks. The council I wrote about was the Goondiwindi Regional Council – given the work they have done, it would be an ideal format to follow throughout Queensland. It’s now going to be – from what I read be-

DAM L EVELS CURRENT AS OF 14/03/2023

DAMS Atkinson * Awoonga Bjelke-Petersen * Boondooma * Borumba * Burdekin Falls * Callide * Cania * Coolmunda * Dyer/Bill Gunn * Eungella * Fairbairn * Glenlyon * Hinze* Julius * Kinchant * Leslie * Macdonald* Maroon * Monduran/Fred Haigh * Moogerah * North Pine/Samsonvale * Peter Faust/Proserpine * Somerset * Teemburra * Tinaroo* Toonumbar Wivenhoe * Wuruma * Wyaralong*

PERCENTAGE NOV

DEC

100 65 101 100 100 91 62 37 101 99 86 40 100 100 87 81 100 100 100 102 100 67 52 80 96 78 100 80 88 100

100 64 100 100 100 104 61 36 98 100 88 40 99 99 87 80 99 101 100 101 99 65 52 80 96 76 100 80 92 99

JAN 96 64 98 96 100 122 24 36 85 98 110 42 97 97 101 93 95 95 100 100 97 65 71 80 109 88 100 79 92 98

FEB

MAR

92 63 94 94 100 117 24 35 81 99 100 46 93 96 100 85 93 89 100 100 97 63 73 80 100 101 100 77 91 98

87 63 92 91 99 105 23 35 74 96 100 45 90 95 103 85 90 88 99 100 95 61 72 80 100 103 101 76 91 97

For updates on dams, visit sunwater.com.au or seqwater.com.au *This symbol indicates that a Stocked Impoundment Permit is required to fish these dams.

Page 80 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

Glenlyon Dam by BRIAN DARE

tween the lines – a user-pays format. This is the new form for most states, though I think our state is the second cab off the rank to do so. When it comes to using travelling stock and water reserves and Crown land for camping, the 14-day maximum at Goondiwindi is more than generous – even five days is more than enough. Finding the locations is another matter – the maps required for camping need to list all reserves and water in each local government authority. This then comes down to input from locals, visitors, anglers, bushwalkers, campers, fish-stocking groups, bicycle riders, horse riders, photography groups, bird watchers, seed collectors, apiary locations for honey collecting… the list goes on. All are entitled to a say, and to do so as soon as possible… tourist associations included. We can all sit around wailing and wringing our hands, saying they won’t do that… yes, they absolutely will! It’s time to get proactive – either by making comment yourself or as a group – and put in your two bobs worth for these locations to be kept open for our recreational use. You will need to obtain local government authority regional maps to find locations you want kept open, including our bush river beaches.

These maps will have location numbers… you’ve possibly even driven past some not knowing they were reserves. Our biggest drawback is the use of these locations by grubs who use these areas, leaving rubbish behind and trashing public-use facilities – it’s time for cameras to be utilised. In most cases, there would be the need to fence off a section of the reserve with an access road to the river or stream bed, camping location and such. A gate put in place so that stock have access to food and water, no road or track in this section, with access only for drovers, stock, horse riders, bushwalkers, bicyclists and photography enthusiasts. Having now caught your attention, if you want to find out more and obtain a copy of first the media statement by the Queensland Minister for Resources Scott Stewart, go to statements.qld.gov.au/ statements/97245 – also in this publication on page 77. Then, go to the Department of Resources to get a copy of the Stock Route Network Management Strategy 2021-2025 – resources.qld.gov. a u /_ _ d a t a /a s s e t s / pdf_file/0018/1550304/ sto ck-rout e -ma nage ment-strategy-2020-25. pdf I have a few questions that need answers… • Will we still be able to access river loca* continued P81

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Access to stock route network * from P80

tions to fish and restock fish yearly? • Will all access points to the rivers and streams have signs ‘Angler access. Recreational use’? • Will an access fee be charged for recreational use? • Will fishings clubs still have to stock fish species within the water and stock reserves, or will an access fee cover this? • Will we be locked out from our bush beaches due to any changes? • Are we able to obtain region by region maps of locations where water reserves and stock reserves are Crown land? On page 13 of the Stock Route Network

Management Strategy 2021-2025 – relationship with the Stock Route Management Act 2002 legislative principles – there are seven points we need to consider: • Public awareness • Commitment • Consultation and partnership • Management • Payment for use • Planning • Monitoring and evaluation. Let’s move on to the policy for fish stocking in Queensland 2020 Freshwater – daf.qld. gov.au/__data/assets/ pdf_file/0019/1552330/ fish-stocking-in-qldpolicy.pdf On page 22 of the 68-page policy: Public access Proposals to stock

for recreational fishing purposes must ensure public access is normally available to stocked fishing locations (noting that from time-to-time infrastructure operators may introduce temporary closures for operational or public safety reasons). Public access is particularly important for the SIPS as public money is used for stocking. Maintenance of public access may require negotiations with adjacent landholders, water storage operators and other government departments. So there you have it… for the moment. Don’t whinge or sit on your hands – write to your local council and have your say!

Adelyn Lyons released fingerlings into Glenlyon Dam.

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Page 82 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023

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Matty Colley with a 55cm mangrove jack caught in Elimbah Creek at back of Bribie Island. It put up a fantastic fight and was a moment he’ll remember for the rest of his life!. John Andrews

Fletcher Allen (5) caught a monster 84cm flathead near La Balsa Park. It was safely released. Kirt Allen

A decent snapper pulled in at sunup off Nine Mile Reef off Tweed Heads on a whole pillie on the first drop. Casey Calder

A couple of fish from my last trip that were captured from out the front of Rainbow Beach recently. Dan Lyell

To have a photo of your catch featured in Readers’ Forum, simply email ads@collins.media with a good quality picture, your name and details or hop onto our Facebook page and send us a message. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 – Page 83

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Can’t make the yard? Shop online! For quality new and used boats! www.brisbaneboatingleisure.com.au Page 88 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, April 2023 www.bnbfishing.com. au 1743 Ipswich Road, Rocklea | Call 07 3875 1600 | Formerly Karee Marine

BNB Fishing Mag | April 2023

Articles inside

Cracking jacks, flatties and pelagics

Stacer launches new Proline models

Monsters over one metre mark at Lake Monduran

Cruise Craft introduces its brand new E695HT fishing weapon