New South Wales Fishing Monthly March 2019

WEATHER COOLING DOWN, FISHING HEATING UP!

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Boating & Kayaking Yakking in the wind • Bar crossing safety Exploring Stuarts Point •

•

Tried & Tested

Features

Clark Legend 520 comparison • Yamashita Eginno Pyonpyon jigs •

•

March, 2019

Flathead ‘staccato’ style • Top tackle for kingies • Live baiting tips

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March 2019, Vol. 24 No. 8

Contents 19

30

From the Editor’s Desk...

Image courtesy of Yokohamajapan.com

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you think. Traditionally a tradeonly event, the 2019 AFTA Trade Show is set to be opened to the public for a look-and-see only event on Saturday 17 August this year. It seems like a long way away, but you all probably know by now that life is like a roll of toiler paper – the closer to the end you get the quicker it goes. So it will be here before you know it.

The Gold Coast may seem a long way to go to see some fishing tackle (and to not buy any!), but I’m sure that there will be thousands of fishing fans

CT

And then there are the giveaways. There’ll be a hundred people who want a chance to win a lure, and each of them challenges the host to rock-paperscissors – simultaneously! And the cool thing about it is that nobody cheats (I’d often remark that in Australia, there would still be 90 contestants after 10 attempts).

Closer to home, developments in the 2019 AFTA Trade Show on the Gold Coast may mean that YOUR opportunity to see the latest gear and to meet your fishing stars may be closer than

who will take the opportunity to travel to this great destination.

After all, there’s plenty of accommodation at the right price and there’s not much better weather anywhere than the Gold Coast in winter. The family can go to the theme parks and you can give a rocksolid guarantee that you won’t buy a thing!

Actually, that’s not quite correct – there will be limited stickers, caps and catalogues available, but nothing to catch a fish on. I’m old enough to remember the last time the industry opened its doors to the public; it was at a Sydney show and it was well regarded for years afterwards.

One thing is for sure, you can bet that any fishing media, pro-staffer, social media legend and content creator will be there – either working the booths or visiting them – so here’s your 6-month heads-up… it’s time to plan a family holiday to the Coast!

TE

It’s become a habit over the last couple of years to head to Japan to see the latest and greatest tackle. Last year it was the Yokohama Fishing Show and this year it was Osaka. These are the two main shows in Japan and they’re held a couple of weeks apart, right in the middle of winter (the Australian summer, and yes, it was a welcome escape from the heat).

Japanese companies use the shows to launch new product and to engage with the tens of thousands of fishing fans that come out to see the gear and meet their favourite fishing personalities.

And Japan has plenty of both – gear and fishing personas.

It’s not uncommon for hundreds of people to attend a stand-side presentation with a TV guy or girl or a winning tournament angler to hear them speak. It comes complete with security guards and ropes to hold the crowd in and to keep the aisles clear.

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AUST

REGULAR FEATURES Back to Basics 45 Cooking 58 Dam Levels 77 Fun Page 79 Tides 84 Trade Directory 82 Tournament News 59 What’s New Fishing 64 What’s New Boating 90 Track My Fish 80 SPECIAL FEATURES Staccato retrieve for flatties 8 Black Magic livebaiting tips 26 Gearing up for kingfish 46

10

PRO

BYRON COAST The Tweed 28 Ballina 30 Yamba 32 COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour 34 Nambucca 36 South West Rocks 37 MACQUARIE COAST Port Macquarie 38 Harrington-Taree 39 Forster 40 HUNTER COAST Swansea 41 Port Stephens 42 Erina 43 Hunter Coast 44 SYDNEY Sydney North 12 The Hawkesbury 14 Sydney Harbour 16 Sydney South 18 Pittwater 20 Botany Bay 22 Sydney Rock and Beach 24 Western Sydney 25 ILLAWARRA COAST Illawarra 49 Nowra 54 BATEMANS COAST Merimbula 51 Narooma 50 Batemans Bay 55 EDEN COAST Bermagui 52 Tathra 53 Mallacoota 57 FRESHWATER Canberra 68 Robinvale 70 Mildura 70 Albury-Wodonga 71 Yarrawonga 71 Batlow 72 Lithgow-Oberon 73 Snowy Mountains 74 Hunter Valley 76 New England 77 Wagga Wagga 78 BOATING AND KAYAK 85

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Flathead

Spinning for flatties with help from flyfishos CANBERRA

Toby Grundy

I love my flathead fishing.

For me, there are very few angling experiences more rewarding than packing

March and April are two of my favourite months in which to target this great species because I can catch a lot of fish using a specific technique, and also because of the mixed bag of other species which show up

time I fished a lot of South Coast systems, from Lake Conjola right down to the Towamba River in Eden.

During these trips I caught a lot of flathead using a variety of lures, ranging from plastics through to topwaters.

Bream often hit surface lures meant for lizards.

Michael Wilson with a Tomaga River flathead. the ute, loading the kayak and heading off to the South Coast in search of big lizards.

while casting for crocs.

I spent two years writing the kayak ‘hotspot’ column for this magazine, and in that

I also wrote about a number of techniques I used along the way, from the ‘burn and kill’ to the ‘deadstick’.

Bassday Sugapens are very effective.

That said, there was one technique I left out while writing the yak column as I was still trying to work it out.

Fly anglers call it a ‘staccato’ retrieve. It’s a musical term that means ‘short and detached’, which describes the retrieve perfectly because you make pronounced short pauses and twitches throughout. I will discuss this method, and where to use it, in further detail below, along with some locations which provide great flathead fishing.

THE RETRIEVE A few years ago I started thinking a lot about lures and flies, and the similarities and differences between the two. As a spin fisherman and occasional fly fisho, I found a few key similarities in the way a fly is worked and how to get the best out of lures designed for spin gear. The ‘staccato’ retrieve was the first fly technique I tried (using conventional spin gear) for flathead that achieved success.

This retrieve style is easily transferable to spin gear. Cast your lure out into a likely area and let it sit for a few seconds before beginning the retrieve. This

is the first pronounced pause.

Once a few seconds have passed, give the lure a twitch to get it swimming and after

you want to jerk the lure as hard as you can without the lure losing its core action.

An example would be the

Flathead put up a good fight on light gear, and they taste great. one or two twitches, pause the lure again. The size of the twitch depends on the lure being used, but essentially

Jackall Micro Pompadour, which can cope with a really strong twitch and still swim across the surface. However,

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Dave Pidcock with a bass which hit a plastic intended for a flathead.

Flathead as soon as a lure loses its action, it means the twitch was too heavy.

LURE SELECTION This retrieve is particularly effective when throwing surface lures for flathead, and one lure that stands out from all others is the Bassday Sugapen. This lure is perfectly designed for the staccato retrieve as it is

incredibly lightweight so it lands naturally, casts like a bullet and (similar to a fly) relies on the angler to create the action. Because the angler is in complete control of the lure, it is far easier to insert the right pause and the right amount of power to achieve a pronounced twitch.

The other reason the Sugapen is so effective is

that even during a lengthy pause the lure is still moving.

I work the twitch part of the retrieve by holding the rod high and twitching my wrist up and down while winding at the same time.

Wriggler, Ecogear Grass Minnow, Megabass Siglett, OSP Bent Minnow and Jackall Micro Pompadour.

LOCATION, LOCATION This type of retrieve works really well when

The author’s PB estuary perch caught using a ‘staccato’ retrieve.

Jason Naumann knows the thrill of catching big crocs on the flats.

Use a longer rod for casting in wide, open systems.

because after a twitch, the lure will sit stationary with just the head sitting above

the surface. The tail of the lure sits below, wobbling back and forth enticingly so

I put a lot of energy into the retrieve to achieve a lot of movement, and if I’m not seeing water firing off the front of my Sugapen I know I’m not doing it right.

I pause the lure for up to five seconds between twitches.

Other lures which work well using this method include the Squidgy

drifting and casting along the flats because the lure looks like a distressed baitfish or crustacean moving at high speed in shallow water. To a predator, it looks like an easy target. Also, because of the pronounced pause and twitch, the flathead think the lure is injured, To page 10

MARCH 2019

9

Flathead From page 9

adding extra incentive to approach it.

If you can find a point which forms a flat, that’s ideal. One location which

really big fish sitting just off these areas looking for a baitfish to make a mistake.

The Towamba River contains a number of these types of snags and is well worth a look.

The OSP Bent Minnow is a great choice for flatties as well as other species such as bream. comes to mind is the Tomaga River, where there are several points around a number of islands which form dynamite sand flats.

Heavy snags like laydowns and root balls are also worth a look, although you will lose a few lures, especially if you’re fishing with soft plastics. There is also a high chance of getting bricked by a large flatty or even a bass (as has happened to me on a number of occasions). However, it is definitely worth it as I have found that there are some

TACKLE For casting surface lures, I use a Quantum Energy 6’0 2-4kg rod matched to a Quantum Smoke S15 spin reel spooled with 6lb line and 8lb leader. This is a very light set-up but I’ve caught almost everything that swims (in a saltwater estuary) on it, from flathead and bream through to estuary perch and tailor.

I have talked to a number of anglers who fish this method, and each one uses a set-up unique to them. It’s a matter of getting out there and giving this retrieve a go, and then deciding what type of set-up you need.

For casting plastics, I use a Rovex Revenge 7’0”, 2-4kg rod matched to a Rovex Revenge 2000 reel.

I like the extra length when casting plastics, but I also use this rod for throwing surface lures when fishing a large system that requires a long cast.

If I’m fishing really heavy snags (lure graveyards) I upsize all

KAYAK, BOAT OR BANK? I have fished from the bank using the staccato retrieve and have caught a lot of fish, and have also caught big numbers fishing from a yak and from a boat.

I don’t think it really matters

retrieve puts you in the running for big bream, estuary perch and bass along with a host of other fish. Although I’m always targeting flathead, I never complain when a big EP powers over the flat and smashes my stickbait!

Whether you’re fishing from a kayak, bank or boat, nail the retrieve and the fish will hit.

Working the flats with plastics can be productive.

my tackle. These areas do hold big flatties but also mulloway, and just in case that fish of a lifetime comes along, I want to be in the fight. In this circumstance, I run a Quantum Throttle combo, which is a 6’6” spin rod matched to a 30 sized reel spooled with 15lb braid and 20lb leader.

as long as you look for the right location and nail the retrieve.

OTHER SPECIES The best part about fishing for flatties along the South Coast of NSW is the mixed bag of other species that pop up throughout the session. Fishing in autumn around the flats using this

CONCLUSION Throughout March and April the flathead fishing along the South Coast really fires up. Whether you’re fishing from bank, boat or kayak, the staccato approach to targeting big crocs in shallow water is one of the best ways to lock onto a fish of a lifetime.

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Harbouring dreams about fishing SYDNEY NORTH

Paul O’Hagan

Sydney Harbour continues to get better every year and as we move through summer, the fish have

tailor and salmon. It doesn’t get much better than that.

The young anglers are the ones who have benefited from the glut of fish, with all manner of pelagics keeping them entertained during summer.

A lot of people have been

of their lines and heading for the bottom or structure!

Not only has it been a lot of fun for some of those young anglers, but also great education as to how they should handle some of our more aggressive fish while

Lee McCurtayne loves chasing kingfish. They are dominating the Harbour at the moment. turned up in big numbers and are willing to tackle all anglers young and old.

Kingfish in their thousands are still dominating the Harbour and the headlands.

Adding to the bags are bonito,

fishing with small stickbaits and large plastics. Many anglers have lost their lures while fishing with very light tackle and others have been finding themselves with some good-sized kingfish on the end

using very light fishing tackle.

Baitfish are in big numbers, with yellowtail and slimy mackerel being the best of live baits. Also in big numbers are the kingfish, which are piling on the

weight and getting up to that lucky number of 65cm+. The artificial reef is the place to pick up some good live bait with yellowtail being taken through the day, whereas the slimy mackerel are usually taken in the early morning.

While the salmon and tailor are holding close to the rocks and the marker buoys in the Harbour, the kingfish are being taken around the boat moorings and up as far as the Harbour Bridge. Squid have been one of the top baits and are in good numbers and are usually taken with small jigs from size 1.8-2.5. Singles or set down on a paternoster rig in and around the Spit Bridge and along Little Manly Point are showing best results.

Outside the Harbour and along the headlands there are still a lot of kings being taken while throwing stickbaits and metals and for some, strips of squid set out on floats are doing the job. There have been some recent reports that there is good feeds of calamari on offer for those fishing with larger jigs along the rocks at Curl Curl Beach, Dee Why Rocks and around the ocean pools.

Long Reef is still fishing well for those anglers who are using small and medium micro jigs in close. Further out, live slimies and yellowtail are picking up kingfish and for a few there have been some decent mulloway taken.

A beautiful marlin tagged and ready for release.

The sizes have been small of late, but hopefully that changes as the gamefishing season continues. gamefishing tournaments there was a mix of small black and striped marlin taken, but there were a lot of boats that came home without a strike.

With masses of birds and dolphins working schools of baitfish, hopefully it won’t be long before the reports are a lot better as we move into some more of the gamefishing tournaments for the season.

It has been a very strange season for those anglers who have been fishing our beaches, although the Harbour and headlands are holding good

in any numbers are few and far between, but hopefully this will improve through March.

Narrabeen Lake is still producing some nice flathead along with some good-sized bream for those anglers using small vibes and diving minnows in and around the reed beds and the drop-offs.

Meanwhile, worms are the best way to pick up a feed of summer whiting in the shallows down around the entrance of the lake.

Some very good results have come in from Manly

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Further out around the FADs it seems that the fish are late and only some small fish are available at the moment.

Anglers looking far and wide in near perfect conditions and water temperature are still not coming up with any legal fish.

Even further out around the 50-fathom mark there have been a few small black marlin taken on the troll, but it seems to be a case of ‘here today and gone tomorrow’.

On one of our recent

numbers of tailor and salmon.

Not a lot of fish seem to be moving in and along some of our beaches, leaving some anglers very puzzled as to why this is the case.

There have been some good whiting taken close to the mouth of Narrabeen Lake and up around Palm Beach.

There have been a few reports of mulloway being taken around the Dee Why area on evening and into the night.

Reports of bream and flathead

Dam, with the bass eager to take imitation cicadas and all manner of surface lures as the sun is going down in the evening.

As we move through the next few weeks we would hope that all manner of fishing should be coming to a peak, with all of the summer species and visiting fish being available in big numbers looking for a hook or two. As always, stay safe and enjoy the fishing!

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Catches are legendary in the Hawkesbury THE HAWKESBURY

Dan Selby dan@sydneysportfishing.com.au

Reasonably dry conditions paired with an inflow of high nutrient run-off

from some impressive storms earlier in the year has left the upper tidal water between Dads Corner to Windsor murky and clay coloured.

A combination of farm run-off, sewage discharges

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and massive new housing developments in the upper creek catchments with inferior run-off protection are what I believe to be the major contributors to the rivers’ downfall. A red algal bloom in the Wisemans Ferry area is a key visual sign of excessive nutrients.

In addition to this, we’ve had a dry hot summer, the likes of which I haven’t seen in my lifetime on the river.

Despite the doom and gloom, the river below Wisemans is producing some decent catches of bream, flathead and mulloway for those soaking prawns, pilchard and squid baits and the more active lure tossers.

Bream have been ravenous for a peeled prawn fished down a berley trail along the rock walls. The shells and heads mixed in with some bread or chook pellets should suffice for the berley. The same areas are great to drift a small black crab with minimal weight on a 1/0 sized suicide hook. The modern Cranka Crab is a great substitute if lures are your thing. Curl tail grubs and creature baits are also well received when presented on jigheads of 1/8oz or lighter.

Some better-sized flathead should start to come on the bite with the water temperature easing off from the 30°C summer temperatures. I prefer lures over bait for flathead, as they can be cast around an area quickly to scan for any activity. If bites occur, you stay longer. Although, if you haven’t had so much as a nibble in ten or so casts, move on to another likely sand bar, drop-off or creek mouth and repeat until an active concentration is

Mulloway will be high on most inshore anglers’ lists this month. Live baiting and lure fishing around the tide changes is the key to getting results. located. Bait anglers can employ a similar tactic with lightly-weighted prawns or white bait.

A recent Fishin’ Tuition class in Berowra saw a few quality flathead landed on soft plastics with the added bonus of my client having a brief but exciting encounter with a large giant herring.

More commonly found in tropical waters, they are a real test of an angler’s ability and equipment. I’m looking forward to our next hook up with one of these northern visitors.

Blue swimmer and mud crabs have been abundant this season and this should continue with the days getting shorter as we head into autumn. Fresh fish frames from a previous trip are the standout for producing the best catches of crabs. Make sure you label your traps as per NSW DPI recommendations and use appropriate-sized floats on enough rope for the tide predictions for the Hawkesbury’s strong currents.

Kingfish, bonito, tailor and salmon have been smashing into bait schools throughout Pittwater

Broken Bay and in Cowan Creek. Small metal slices up to 20g, surface stickbaits and soft plastic minnows around 3” long are the lures you need to have on hand to stand a chance of hooking

Some good-sized kings will be patrolling the headlands and bays looking for a stray yakka, slimy or squid. up. Normally this month, a few more speedsters show up in the form of mac tuna and frigate mackerel.

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Usually around a kilo in weight, they are great sportfish on light tackle and are great bait cubed up for a session on bream or a larger slab bait for the mulloway.

I really look forward

A 40cm+ bream taken on a soft plastic cast tight along a rock wall. Be prepared for the bite as soon as your lure touches down, as these fish are switched on in the warm water.

to this time each season, as it’s when my mulloway hunting kicks off.

Live baiting will be the standout fish taker for at least another month or two until the water really cools off with a few southerly squalls and some much needed rain.

Lure fishing is still viable, but you will have to weed your way through the soapies and flathead to find that better sized fish you’re after. Catching a selection of baits including tailor (min 30cm), big yakkas, slimy mackerel, pike and squid will put you in with a good chance of hooking that 50lb+ fish. Setting up the boat position in your chosen location is a close second to sourcing your fresh baits.

I’m pedantic about my boat position, as it will ultimately affect where your baits will be positioned when the evercrucial tide change occurs.

If you focus your catch rates with rise to 100%!

Get in quick as entries are open now. To secure yours, visit www.gofishnagambie.com.au and be sure to check out the GoFish Nagambie Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and give us a ‘like’ to join the community.

Entries On Sale 30th November

For many anglers Nagambie is relatively uncharted territory, but it’s well known among the locals as a hotspot, with impressive natural waterways and healthy fish population. The tournament zone covers all the key bite-zones and provides some cracking opportunities to land big fish. Let’s have a closer look.

THE GOFISH TOURNAMENT ZONE IN SPOTLIGHT The GoFish Nagambie Tournament is situated on the Nagambie Lakes and Goulburn River system. The tournament area starts at the Goulburn Weir and includes everything upstream to the junction with Hughes Creek, a massive 30km upstream. All backwaters, billabongs, lagoons and creeks within this area are included in the competition area. These areas include the Majors Creek system and Sandy Creek.

This waterway is an angler’s paradise, with plenty of heavy timber, standing trees, overhanging structure, willow trees, thick weed beds and a river channel that provides the lake system with depths varying from 0.5m down to 11m deep in some locations.

Below the weir The Goulburn River below the weir is a cl assic native cod fishery, featuring high clay banks and sandy beaches, and is shaded by the river gums. In this section there is an abundance of instream structure and there are many different options for fishing. Bait fishing amongst the fallen timber is a very productive option in this spot.

The backwaters Exploring the backwaters on the Goulburn River downstream (north) of Nagambie Lake and throughout

the Goulburn Weir, Western and Eastern backwaters and the backwaters to the west of the lake, there are plenty of great opportunities by boat and by kayak.

Apart from the flooded river sections the water is mostly shallow and between 1-3m for the most part, with dead timber and stumps in abundance. This makes for a strong case to troll from your boat or kayak.

Focussing around the drop-offs tends to pay off.

Lake Nagambie Lake Nagambie is effectively a shallow billabong on the Goulburn River. In many ways, it is like Lake Mulwala (another iconic Murray cod water to the north), in that it is fed by a premier fishing river and backs up many kilometres of shallow flats that are littered with enormous amounts of dead timber, weed beds and other fish holding structure.

GoFish Nagambie is putting the spotlight on these waterways across the Anzac Day weekend from 25-28 April, 2019. With more than $500,000 in prizes up for grabs, come and put these new skills to the test and bag yourself a cracking Nagambie cod. Entries are on sale now and are strictly limited, to secure your place visit gofishnagambie.com.au!

Visit www.gofishnagambie.com.au to check out these tournament zones in detail. The tournament zone provides anglers with some cracking spots to land that winning catch. GoFish Nagambie ambassador and cod fishing genius Rhys Creed, gives some insight into the best spots to target within the tournament zone.

Sydney Harbour has kingfish written all over it SYDNEY HARBOUR

Tom Bamforth

Many anglers lately have had marlin fever, and with the warm currents shifting on almost a daily basis, the fish could be encountered anywhere from the coastal wash zone to the shelf.

Jae Kim took a nice black marlin trolling skirted lures in the vicinity of ‘Bait Station’, with a crewmate also landing a healthy striped marlin. Many anglers have also had success lately by slow trolling live slimy

mackerel around reef and bait schools – an exciting method that raises the anticipation of a big strike.

Prominent reef in the 30-60m depth range is a good place to start looking. The odd whaler and hammerhead shark is snaffling a live bait intended for a marlin or king, and even homing in on the snapper baits, destroying anglers fishing light line and monofilament leaders.

We have bonito, Australian salmon and rat kingfish crashing bait in the coastal wash zones, providing sport for rock

anglers spinning a range of artificial lures. Berleying the same wash and fishing lightly-weighted baits is producing these same fish, plus silver trevally, the odd bream and snapper in the 30-50cm bracket.

Enthusiastic angler Mondal Kushol has been working hard to crack his first land based kingfish in Sydney Harbour, after being comprehensively ‘dusted’ by unstoppable fish under and around the pylons that he has been fishing; a tough environment to land a king at the best of times. He has

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A healthy kingfish taken aboard Craig McGill’s Fishabout Tours. tasted sweet success recently landing several nice fish.

That doyen of Sydney Harbour, Craig McGill, has been putting clients onto some great fish. Kings in the 1.2m+ range pull amazingly hard and have been enthralling clients consistently of late. The Pittwater system has also been providing kingfish action, with schools of fish chasing bait on the surface making an exciting spectacle to cast a lure or fly at.

Lure fishing makes a great proposition at this time of year, especially when the squid fishing is a little tough.

The mouth of the Hawkesbury and its lower reaches has had school mulloway on the prowl, and they will readily take a soft plastic or vibe lure jigged within striking range.

Trolling diving minnows in the 15cm range around the visual tide lines in this system has also been an effective method to take tailor – great for mulloway bait or the frying pan.

Mondal Kushol with a ripper kingfish taken land-based in Sydney Harbour.

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MARCH 2019

Jae Kim with a top black marlin taken while trolling.

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Get ready for some mixed bags this month SYDNEY SOUTH

Gary Brown gbrown1@iprimus.com.au

As stated in the Botany Bay report there will still be plenty of kingfish about this month and into the next. Sure, there won’t be

as many as Botany Bay. But who cares? A kingfish is a kingfish no matter what size it is.

Due to the fact that the Port Hacking is a small waterway you are going to have to work hard to find out where they are hiding.

You may have thought that

you have worked them out only to find that they are not where you last got them. My suggestion is that you find the structure and you will be in with a great chance of getting a kingfish or two.

If you like to soak a bait then the Port Hacking is a great place to do that.

There will be a few tailor on the chew in the Port Hacking during March, so keep those metals handy.

Dan Malfitana ventured out onto the Port Hacking with a handful of soft plastics and managed to get an undersize kingfish in South West arm.

18

MARCH 2019

My best results have come from when I anchor up, berley and fish as light as the conditions will allow.

During March you will still be able to get good numbers of bream, whiting, flathead, flounder, mullet and garfish in the Port Hacking on bait.

Just remember that you need to berley.

The main channel from the 8-knot zone that is at Lilly Pilly and up to the entrance to Burraneer Bay is worth a try, as is the area just off Bonnie Vale, South West Arm and Gymea Bay.

Even though smelly old bait will catch fish at times, it is best to use bait that has been looked after. Many anglers don’t use frozen prawns, as they fall off the hook easily – mainly on your cast. I’ve been using thawed out frozen Hawkesbury

River prawns that I buy in kilo blocks and when I get them home, I slightly thaw them out and repackage them into 250g packs and refreeze.

If looked after they will refreeze time and time again.

Another great couple of baits to use in the Port Hacking are tubeworms

weed beds. You just have to remember that hoop or lift nets, a hand–hauled prawn net, a crab trap, a lobster trap or a push or scissors net are not allowed in the Port Hacking and this has been so for over 48 years.

You will need to catch them by using a handline or rod

kelp or weed. Salmon Haul Bay is not a bad place to start, but it does get hammered at times. Jibbon Point, Bundeena and Shark Island are other good places to try.

Osbourne Shoals and Jibbon Bommie is worth a shot for snapper, kingfish, trevally and tarwhine.

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and pink nippers. I buy my tubeworms from Macs Bait Bar at Blakehurst and pump my own at Sandringham near the Captain Cooks Bridge.

You could always try catching a few mullet or garfish as they make a great bait. All you need is a handline, small long shanked hook, a spit shot and some bread for bait and berley.

There areas that you can find garfish are near and around weed beds. The garfish can be used whole for kingfish, tailor, salmon, bonito and mulloway. Whereas the mullet can be cut into strips for bream, flathead and snapper.

For those of you who like a feed of blue swimmer crabs, they will be crawling around the sand flats and

with a hook, bait and weight.

Once they have grabbed hold slowly pull it in and place the net at the rear of the crab to catch it.

The scourge of the soft plastic angler is the leatherjacket and they will be out and about in the Port Hacking. As for catching them it is not as easy as it looks, especially when there are a lot of small ones about. I would try using a paternoster rig with a single number 10-12 sized long shank hook with a very small piece of prawn – just enough to cover the bend in the hook or small pieces of squid.

Talking about squid; if you are after a feed of them there will be a few about.

Work the rocky shorelines where there is either a bit of

Lightly-weighted peeled prawns, half pillies and strips of squid are the go.

On another note, on 10 April from 6pm I will be giving a talk at the BCF store at Taren Point at 119 Parraweena Road Taren Point. I will be covering how to get the best out of your soft plastics, as well as bait fishing for mullet, bream and trevally. There will be plenty of spots available and it’s free. Contact the store on (02) 9525 0346 and put your name down. Hope to see you there.

Don’t forget to keep those reports and photos coming in! If you have anything to report or have a picture of your latest catch just email it to me at gbrown1@iprimus.com.au.

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19

Marching into a royal season PITTWATER

Peter Le Blang plfishfingers@bigpond.com

March is one of my favourite months to fish on Pittwater and along the coast.

Normally we will see the water

braid, it really becomes a stand and deliver fight.

The baits for these bruisers are usually squid, especially the big ones, but if there is a school of bonito or big slimies around it will pay to load up with these and stay near the surface activity.

Downrigging slimies or

on the water, with it being calm and sunny, making it easier to see the fish by busting up on the surface.

Hopefully the next month will see similar action on Pittwater and Broken Bay. For those wanting to chase kingfish on Pittwater, at the moment there are

This cheeky young angler didn’t give this kingfish a chance. temperature drop to a point where most of the smaller kingfish disappear and travel north, but the bigger kings start showing up to replace them. There aren’t massive numbers of fish, so you have to be prepared to hunt down their preferred bait and then cover ground.

Even after many years of chartering, I still get excited when a big king hits the floor. The fight is usually an epic one, especially if it has been hooked amongst or near the moorings. With drags locked up and heavy

bonito can be a bit trickier than using squid. Both of these fish are very energetic and will often tangle with each other when turning if care isn’t taken when setting the drop back from your downrigger clips or bands.

The perfect scenario is to run the downriggers at different depths and different drop backs. If you get it right, the slimies and the bonnies won’t find each other and both will be presented in a way that will entice a decent kingfish.

Over the last month we have seen some great days

a lot of smaller models.

These fish are being caught around West Head, Barrenjoey Head and on Pittwater Careel Bay seems to be the better area. Slimy mackerel and both live and frozen squid are the baits to use. When you find a patch of the smaller kings and want to have some fun on the lighter gear, cut the frozen squid into strips so you don’t waste your live squid or slimies.

Squid are being caught at the usual haunts and there are a few bigger ones starting to show up. Areas

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MARCH 2019

to try are Palm Beach weed beds, West Head, Mackerel Beach, Currawong Beach and Careel Bay. The bettersized jigs are the 2.5 sizes and the fluoro colours are still working a treat.

If you like to chase some bread and butter species, there are plenty of flathead, bream, flounder, and the odd whiting biting in the hole and in the deeper water in front of Mackerel Beach through to Palm Beach. Drifting to cover ground is the best way to track down a feed.

The hill drift behind Scotland Island has also produced numbers of catches of recent times. This area also sees on occasion mulloway and kingfish show up and once again this area is better when drifting and covering ground. If you want to throw the anchor out and lay a berley trail, be sure to try Soldiers Point area to encounter kingfish, mulloway, flathead and bream. This area fishes best on the run-out tide.

If you like throwing soft plastics around for flathead, the edge of the weed beds at Careel Bay and Mackerel Beach are definitely worth trying before heading to any of the other bays. There have been quite a few bait schools in these areas and flathead ‘lies’ can be seen in the shallows. Both are always promising signs.

For those fishing Broken Bay there are still

Squid was the downfall of this king. part in catching mulloway and so can moon phases, sunset and sunrise. When the planets all align for you, magic happens.

Offshore we are still seeing good captures of reef fish. There is still a lot of activity in the 80m depth of water with pelagic species as well as your bottom feeders. The Ordinance Grounds are seeing some snapper, bar cod, morwong and flathead.

Grounds closer to the coast in 60m of water are home to some cracking snapper,

surface. If you approach these areas with stealth and float back cuttlefish strips or tentacles as bait it won’t take you long to find out if the big snapper are about.

I hope this report sees you all grabbing the fishing gear and heading to your favourite area to catch a fish or three. Remember to increase your knowledge of an area, or if you are new to an area, go out with your local fishing charter. The time spent on the charter will see your knowledge and skills grow,

The smile says it all. Take your kids out for a similar result. mulloway being caught at areas such as Flint and Steel, Juno Point and Elanoras Bluff right through to the bridges. On most occasions, fresh caught bait will see your chances increase dramatically if you are fishing the right areas and tides. Tides play a big

flathead and the odd kingfish to liven everyone up as well. In close along the coast we are still finding small kingfish but the bigger fish won’t be too far away either.

Late March and into April will see cuttlefish dying and floating on the

and ultimately your fishing improve dramatically in a very short period of time.

• Peter Le Blang operates Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters, phone 02 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351, visit www. estuaryfishingcharters. com.au.

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The kingfish are March-ing around Botany Bay BOTANY BAY

Gary Brown gbrown1@iprimus.com.au

One fish species that has been a standout over the past six months in Botany Bay has been the kingfish.

Since the release of 7,000 by the DPI in September

Port Hacking River and Sydney Harbour.

One problem is that most of them have been undersized, but a bigger problem is that there are many anglers out there who have been kept the undersized ones. Sure, it may be the biggest and hardest fighting fish that

I have even heard (from a very reliable source) of one being caught on a squid jig while squidding.

They have been taking everything from pink nippers, peeled prawns,

soft plastics, jigs and even flies.

Keep an eye out for working birds or ones that are sitting on the water waiting for the kings to come up. Try trolling a

and then come back and check them. There are two reasons that I do this.

One is that I can keep a close eye on them, as other people who don’t have nets like to steal crabs.

Secondly, while drifting past I can flick out a few soft plastics or blades for flathead and bream.

Remember to check out the DPI rules and regulations as to what you need to do when crabbing. Also, there are a few places that you can’t use nets or traps.

Offshore snapper have been caught in 30-40m out from the pipe. Sand and tiger flathead are schooling out of Maroubra rifle range in 30-40m. Try trolling from the entrance of Botany Bay north to Coogee for kingfish, bonito, salmon and tailor.

Small skirts, metals and plastics are the go.

Further up in the Georges and Woronora rivers, bream, flathead, whiting and flounder are on the chew. The best bait

The tackle that you need is very simple. A small long-shanked hook, some small spit shots and a float is all you need. The berley is just as simple, and bread or bread crumbs will do.

When it comes to what bait to use, they can be fussy one day and bite on anything the next. I have a handed down secret pudding mixture bait that I make up.

For those of you who prefer not to get your hands dirty with bait, bream and whiting are still taking lures and soft plastics off the surface in the shallows.

The last hour of the run-in and all of the run-out tide works best for me.

As a bit of a by-catch while fishing for bream, whiting and flathead I have caught Australian salmon and undersize kingfish at the Moons. So, make sure that you check your drags, and they’re are not done up too tight!

On 10 April from 6pm I will be giving a talk at the

Craig Myers scored his first ever kingy on a 2-4kg rod spooled with 6lb braid and 6lb leader while drifting for flathead.

2018 and another 2,000 in December 2018, anglers have been catching heaps of them throughout the bay, and the Cooks and Georges rivers. Plus, there have been a few tagged ones caught in the

you have ever caught, but please do the right thing and release the undersizers.

Many of these kingfish have been caught by anglers soaking a bait for bream and trevally or drifting for flathead, and

Harrison Myers was down from Mackay visiting his uncle Shayne over the Christmas break and managed to catch his first ever blue swimmer crab. half pillies, garfish, whole dead and live squid, strips of squid, butterflied yellowtail, plastics, metals,

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couple of lures around until you find a patch.

Bream are feeding in the deep water drop-off at Towra Point, the Drums, Yarra Bay Fisheries marks, Henry Head, Watts Reef, the middle ground, Dolls Point wide and Brighton Beach.

Tailor schools have been feeding off Brighton and the third runway. The odd trevally or two has been caught off the Cooks River breakwalls, the groynes in Yarra Bay and off Silver Beach at Kurnell.

The rocks at Kurnell have been producing bream, trevally, sweep, yellowtail, squid, drummer and luderick on the falling tide. Peeled blue tailed prawns, cunje and bread have been the best baits.

Have you ever tried catching blue swimmer crabs? It’s great fun and they are great to eat. What I tend to do is use mullet as bait, set the nets in a line and then drift past them a couple of times

Harrison also bagged his largest flathead ever at 56cm. by far for the flathead is the poddy mullet. As for whiting and bream, the pink nipper reigns supreme and for the flounder, you could always try chicken breast.

I can’t get enough of catching mullet. Small or large; it doesn’t matter.

They can be caught from the shore and out of a boat.

BCF store at Taren Point at 119 Parraweena Road.

I will be covering how to get the best out of your soft plastics, as well as bait fishing for mullet, bream and trevally. There will be plenty of spots available and it’s free. Contact the store on (02) 9525 0346 and put your name down.

Hope to see you there!

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Tropical species can be expected in this hot water SYD ROCK & BEACH

Alex Bellissimo alex@bellissimocharters.com.au

When it comes to pelagics, every year we Sydneysiders can expect a migration of southern species such as bonito, then mackerel tuna and frigate mackerel.

the species caught. They are normally only juveniles, but on some occasions you can catch mature fish.

A nice amberjack was caught recently on a client trip. I had not seen an AJ off the ocean rocks for a long time, although I catch samsonfish and spangled emperor virtually every year.

in the 5/0-7/0 size. I like using the Mustad 7766D hooks with Mustad crane swivels in the 70kg size, and between 60-80lb Sufix Invisiline fluoro just in case I hook a whopper king. My usual outfit consists of a PE6, 24-37kg Saltist rod and Daiwa 5500 to 6500BG spooled with 50-80lb J-Braid.

When it comes to lures,

Peter Vardas and Stephenie Angus had a fun session catching bream, whiting and trevally, all on beach worms. Stephanie caught two beach worms on her very first outing.

Then there are the enigma species we come across. We encounter from time to time a migration of sub-tropical and tropical species, normally only seen as far south as Hat Head, about five hours north of Sydney. Most years spotty mackerel are caught in small quantities. Amberjack, samsonfish and spangled emperor are amongst some of

The amberjack was caught during a mixed species wash fishing session off the ocean rocks, which saw snapper, bonito and small kings landed as well. You just don’t know when you’re going to hook one of these exotic species. it is a real thrill!

On the ocean rocks I recommend using an eastern sea gar on a set of 3-4 hooks

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the best methods of fishing for this species. Alternatively, if you want to use something different for tailor try a strip of tailor fillet. Fillet the tailor and cut the fillet into strips longways. The strip should ideally be 2-3cm wide and about 15cm long.

Bait it up like you would a whole pilchard.

The whiting and bream are in similar volumes on some of the beaches. For example, the average bag could be 6-8 take home fish, and it is often a 50:50 with the bream and whiting.

Unusually, there have been some out-of-season trevally thrown into the mix.

A client caught a double header with the trevally on a

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Lately a few clients have been catching their very first beach worm as well.

Often when I do a beach whiting guiding trip I like to complement it with a beach worming session. It’s quite entertaining seeing my clients

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MARCH 2019

beach worming. They assume it is so difficult, but once they do the steps correctly they often find it to be less complex than fishing.

The beaches I recommend are Dee Why, Collaroy, Mid to north Narrabeen, and Avalon.

Moving to the harbour, there are quality whiting being caught at the moment.

The picturesque Clontarf at Middle Harbour has some stud whiting, quality bream and sizeable mullet as well.

Wading the shallows at the end of the sand flat around the low tide period to about half tide in is the best time to be there. Bear in mind that dog owners like to unleash their hounds there (the spot is nicknamed the ‘Dog

James Kelly with a Sydney Harbour king off the stones. It was caught on an eastern sea gar. If you don’t fancy an ocean rock fish, try the calmer rock foreshores of the harbour.

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the 40g Rapala Skitter Pop popper is working well. There are many other lures that are working, but the Skitter Pop is a good start.

When you’re after a king, you’ll want to deploy some berley like cubed pilchards to attract the kings and of course the baitfish. The agitation from feeding small fish (such as sweep, yellowtail and madoes) can excite the kings because these predators love activity. Big bonito to 60cm have also being caught on gars and lures.

Anglers are catching bream on the shallow rock flats like Long Reef Collaroy

at the moment. During mid to high tide there are vast areas at this location. The deeper water headlands like Bluefish have some great populations of this species as well. Amongst the bags of 3-6 fish, there are quite often good specimens from 300g to well over a kilo. For the bream, using the small pilchards that are available at some tackle shops is a great option. Local river prawns should be added to your variety of bait as well.

If you spin up a bonito, you’ll find there is plenty of bait and berley in that one fish.

Fillet one up and cut it into strips. The flakey flesh works a treat for species like snapper, bream and smaller kings.

The average rock fisho thinks that rock blackfish aren’t available at this time of year, but there are some sizeable specimens around at the moment. I suggest using large cabbage weed baits, large peeled prawns (such as banana or endeavour), and don’t forget the bread berley. Fish the shallower areas, especially the areas with submerged boulders, and areas with some white water swirling around in 2-4m of water. In these locations you will be in with a good chance of catching this tough critter.

The ocean beaches have a variety of species on offer.

There has been a slight drop in mulloway captures, but that may be due to less anglers fishing for them. The dusky and bronze whaler shark population has increased, with more of these hard fighting fish to be caught in the evenings whilst targeting mulloway.

The sharks don’t mind a ganged pilchard as well.

There are also reasonable numbers of tailor around in chopper size and larger.

A run of 32-40cm fish is currently available. Using ganged pilchards is one of

Billy Zhang was really impressed with his amberjack. These fish are seldom caught in the Sydney region.

Sand Flat’), so don’t leave a baited hook on your rod unattended, and keep hooks and lures up on the top end of the rod.

I prefer for safety reasons having the rod up on a 90% angle in a rod holder. That keeps sharp hooks well out of the way from people’s pets.

You can spin with the rod that you are using, and change lures with ease if you’re using a bum bag or an Alvey carry bag. The other rod can be set up for bait fishing if you like. A clip seal 15-20L bucket with a clip seal lid will keep pets from eating your bait.

Off the harbour rock shore, like the inside of Middle Head towards Balmoral, The Grotto, Georges head and The Spit, anglers are getting some kings and bonito.

Tailor are also available in the evenings. You can get good results on whole eastern sea gars ganged, or lures like the Rapala 40g Skitter Pop, Zerek Zeppelin and Sure Catch 40g Knight. Kings up to the mid 70s, bonito to 50cm and tailor to 45cm are the run of late.

• For rock and beach guided fishing or tuition in the northern Sydney region, visit www.bellissimocharters. com.au, email alex@ bellissimocharters.com.au or call Alex Bellissimo on 0408 283 616.

Changing fishing tactics as autumn sets in WESTERN SYDNEY

Peter Jacovides

The bass will still be biting this month, but the cicadas are finished so you’re better off going subsurface with floating divers and spinnerbaits.

When it comes to divers, my favourite is the Jackall

Chubby in dark colours.

Both the shallow and deep versions work equally well at the moment, but that will change as the month progresses. As autumn sets in the fish like to seek out deeper water, so deeper divers will work better.

A couple of good bass spinnerbaits are the TTs Vortex and Jackall Super

Eruption Jr. In non-tidal water, I like to use dark colours such as brown, red and black. In tidal water, I prefer white and chartreuse.

The best time to chase bass in the HawkesburyNepean at the moment is late in the afternoon and into the evening. Focus your efforts on the bankside structure and weed beds for best results.

This cod couldn’t resist a Molix Pike Spinnerbait.

Subsurface lures are the go-to for bass this month.

REDFIN Many anglers are now turning their attention to redfin in Lyell, Oberon and Wentworth Falls dams.

We find that vibes like the Ecogear ZX and Strike Pro Cyber Vibe are productive on the reddies, but plenty of other lures will catch their share too. If you have any small lure in your tackle box, give it a try as it may catch a redfin or two. A range of colours will work, although redfin seem to particularly like a splash of red or black.

You can catch them all day, but early mornings and afternoons are best.

MURRAY COD Cod will be the go-to fish this month, provided the strange weather hasn’t caused a massive fish kill.

Wyangala, Blowering and Copeton dams will be worth a try very early in the morning, before sunrise, with large surface lures fished right up against the shore. The bigger the lure, the better! As well as the ever-reliable Jackall Pompadour, we’ve been

getting good results on the Barambah Lures Bidgiwong Lizard and Manic Budgie.

• The expert staff at Australian Bass Angler in Penrith specialise in all fields of fresh and saltwater fishing. If you want to know about the latest tackle or techniques, kayak fishing or tournament bass boats, drop into the store at 105 Batt Street, Penrith or phone (02) 4721 0455. You can also see the latest news and special deals on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ thebassangler.

MARCH 2019

25

BLACK MAGIC

MASTER CLASS

/

W I T H PA U L L E N N O N

No more waiting, get into some live baiting On the Mid North Coast of NSW live baiting the inshore reefs, islands and headlands is an extremely good way to get connected to some serious fish, but this great technique will also work in waters all around Australia. Kings, black marlin, longtail tuna, Spanish mackerel, mac tuna, bonito, cobia

longtail tuna will also move right up into shallow rocky bays and coves looking to feast on schools of garfish.

Often these kinds of areas are accessible by land, which dedicated hardcore land-based anglers take full advantage of, landing some spectacular catches from the rocks every year.

If you’re boat-based the live baiting options

For larger reef systems and around islands it’s best to cover as much territory as you can, which is why slow trolling these parts will work best.

On the flip side, if you’re fishing for kings in a small bay full of garfish, or for a cobia on an isolated bommie, or a particular point that juts out then anchoring up and sending live baits out under floats will be the better option.

TROLLING When it comes to trolling there are a range of baits that will work.

When baits tough to find a yellowtail or even a pike will do the job, however slimy mackerel are probably the best all round bait. Big kingfish and cobia also love a slow trolled calamari squid or small bonito.

It’s best to run two rods

Even small boats like this can get amongst the action, this small crew is pulling a solid cobia aboard. will need around 3m of 80-100lb leader coupled with 60-80lb braided or 24kg mono outfits. Black Magic fluorocarbon leader is the best leader for this type of work, as it’s super abrasion resistant making it ideal for brutal kingfish fight in rugged terrain.

Hook choice you’ll

KLT 7/0 circle hooks.

All baits when trolling should be bridle rigged using either elastic bands or a loop of mono. Trolled

is simple with the length of your leader giving you your depth and a torpedo float running up the leader between your joining knot and hook. For the deeper bait a small pea size sinker can also be added on top of the hook.

A good hook for this is the Black Magic DX 6/0.

They are deadly sharp and since switching to them last year, I don’t think I’ve missed one tuna.

Live baits under a float are best pinned gently behind the shoulder just above the lateral line, with the exception being garfish that last longer when hooked just behind the

Longtail tuna are a prime candidate for a live bait suspended under a float. and even the odd stonker snapper are all live baiting possibilities.

While you can potentially catch any of the above species with a range of live baiting methods your success rate improves dramatically when know what and where works best for each fish.

This is why it’s important to know what fish your targeting and how to identify potential

are greatly increased for the above species, as shallow reefs and islands close to the coast become accessible. Here you are less likely to catch longtail tuna as they prefer to hug the coastline, but have a great chance of hooking into a black marlin.

This is especially the case on those inshore reefs holding baitfish in 20-40m of water.

The two most popular

Black Magic DX 6/0 are a lethal live bait hook.

Black Magic’s very own Chris Firkin in the closing stages of a tuna fight. when trolling, with one up high in the water column and one deeper. This is where a downrigger really comes into its own, allowing you to set the ideal depth you want your bait at. If you don’t have a downrigger an elastic band with snapper style sinker attached to the leader will be a good substitute.

Leader size and main line will depend on what you’re targeting. If it’s big hoodlum kings you

find it hard to go past the Black Magic DX 6/0 or KS 7/0-8/0, depending on bait size.

For black marlin the same leader size will also be perfect for handling the scuffing caused by bills even in a long fight on 100kg inshore fish – I’ve never had it wear through.

For marlin stick with mono line, preferably IGFA class, something like Black Magic IGFA 10-15kg, and use BM

baits should be fished in free spool to give the fish a chance to get the bait down before hooks are set. This is why overhead reels are the preferred reel for this type of work, however, baitrunner style spinning reels are gaining popularity for 10-15kg mono line classes and up to 50lb braid.

anal fin on the underside of the fish. For the leader try Black Magic flourocarbon around 60lb, unless you’re targeting big kings, then up it to 80-100lb.

Outfits can be either overhead or spin with 15kg mono or 50lb braid ideal for this type of fishing.

If you do opt for the spin

This Spanish took a slowly trolled garfish. areas for them.

The first thing you should be looking for are environments holding common food sources.

For species like longtail tuna, Spanish mackerel, kingfish and cobia prime areas are ocean headlands with deep reefy bottom, where schools of slimy mackerel and yellowtail concentrate. Kingfish and 26

MARCH 2019

ways to fish live baits are to either drift them out suspended under a float or to slow troll them through high-potential areas.

While the preferred method for tuna is live baiting under a float, the best way to target marlin is slow trolling. For the other species the most productive style will largely depend on the areas you’re fishing.

The author putting the breaks on a longtail tuna.

This solid king took a liking to a slow trolled slimy mackerel.

USING FLOATS The best bait to run under a float is again a slimy mackerel, with garfish pike and yellowtail as good back ups.

I like to fish with two rods out at different depths, one at around 2m and the other one around 5m. The rig

option, baitrunner reels are the way to go as you want your reel to be in freespool when the fish takes the bait then easily engaged into gear when it’s time to strike.

That’s live baiting in a nutshell, now you’ve just got to get out and do it.

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Everybody was mangrove jack fighting THE TWEED

Anthony Coughran

There are good numbers and catches right across the board this month. But as usual, the storms and the weather are dictating where and what to fish for.

Close reefs are fishing well due to the bait schools that are holding on them – this keeps all the predators around and feeding up on most close reefs.

trappers lines and floats.

Small metals have been working best.

Stickbaits, poppers, trolled hardbodies, skirts, metals, floating baits, live baits and troll baits around most close reefs has been fishing well for spotties, Spaniards and wahoo.

Wahoo mainly out on the 24s, 36s and 50s and mainly on skirts. You can also find the odd one on the eastern side of 9 Mile on hardbodied deep diving lures.

Mitchel Zygnerski with a decent mahimahi.

They have been around in numbers, but their sizes have been fairly average.

The estuaries are boiling with fish at the moment.

Jacks are still wreaking havoc and some big trevally are busting up and getting caught and even the skinny water has lots of elbow slapper gangs munching anything in the shallows. The surface suckers are boofing lures this month. The rains and storms have most back creek, upper rivers, filling pools, drains and run-offs fishing very well for a few fat bass.

OFFSHORE There are still lots of pelagics gracing us with their presence. Good number of billfish, mahimahi and yellowfin are being caught between Tweed and Byron.

Try current lines, bait balls, any floating debris, FADs and packs of birds on the 36-fathoms, 50m, 100m, 200m and out around the shelf. Purple and black, pink and white, and lumos are still working the best.

Even the odd smaller black sitting in between the close reefs is well worth a troll between spots.

Mackerel have been in good numbers on close reefs over the last month. A few smaller mahimahi have been caught around the FADs, 28

MARCH 2019

Floating baits and a heavy berley trail has been fishing well on small close reefs and catching some good spotted mackerel. Flicking metals around your baits and through your berley trail will catch any loose stragglers too timid to hit your baits.

The Fidos bommies, 5 Mile, South and Kingy reefs, and Hastings Point are also good for a spotties.

Troll baits has been working well for Spaniards.

Trolling bonito, slimies and pillies has been catching decent fish over the last month. Stickbaits, poppers and live baits have also catching some great fish around the bommies on the close reefs.

There is still the odd cobia sitting around the baitfish on close reefs. Try dropping lightly-weighted live bait down once you have sounded the bait with arches. The odd large GT can be found around those bait schools, too. Live baits have also been working well.

There are still some pan-sized reefies out there.

Just work the close reefs around dusk and dawn and the deeper reefs once the sun is up. Mud holes, 24s, 36s and the 50s are

all producing a great feed on jigs, paternoster rigs, and heavy weighted plastics.

Lots of baits can be found at all the usual spots. Size 6-8 jigs have been working best.

ESTUARY Big reds are out and they mean business. Most anglers fishing live baits of a night are only successfully scoring one or two out of five. They are wreaking that much havoc. It has a lot of anglers grabbing their game gear just to stop them in that heavy structure. Lots of anglers this season have gone from 50lb-60lb braid to 80lb-100lb wind on to 100lb125lb and 30cm mullet and they are still having trouble stopping them.

All heavy structure that holds bait is holding good size and numbers of jacks.

Live baits between 10-30cm in any of this heavy structure will see your arm getting stretched. Artificials are also fishing well for jacks, mainly during the day and again in that heavy structure.

Just work the tides – try and work those slack tides and tide changes for more results.

Northerlies and storms will also help you in your chase for jacks.

There have been a lot of cod and some monster flatty as by-catches this month, on live baits and on lures while in the search for jacks.

Some cracker trevally species have been around in the rivers this month.

Those bridges with street lights have been fishing best for trevally. Live baits

sized specimens. Sugapens, clear Gillies popper, Halco Roosta Poppers and other walk-the-dog and poppers styles are all working well.

The best method has been skipping them across the top.

If you think you’re going quick, go faster.

There are lots of bull sharks in the river and in the creeks this month and they are easier to fish for than you think. At this time of year you want to fish the drains, irrigation channels in the upper rivers and creeks during or after the rains and storms with large dead baits like whole mullet, whole bonnies, freshwater eel, large fish heads, stingray flaps or large live baits either under floats or on the bottom. I like to run one of each. A live bait float and a dead bait on the bottom.

You can fish for them with pretty light spin gear like 30-50lb braid to 50-125lb wire. Either gel coated or multistrand is good. An 8/016/0 hook or multiple hooks of various sizes or even a stinger with a treble has all been working well. Just find the rig that suits you and the baits you’re using. I do like to run heat shrink over my wire and crimps just to break it up from the shark’s electro sensors. In my experience it does help.

There are still muddies moving around, especially with the rain and storms and around the full moon.

Try upriver and creeks around freshwater drains, lakes and dams run into the

Lachlan Southgate with a beautiful jack that was caught on a plastic at night. Dark has been the best time to target jacks. and herring shaped lures are working well. Plastics, blades, vibes and swimbaits are also working well on these species.

There is still heaps of whiting up in the skinny water this month. Yabbies, beach and bloodworms are catching a good feed while drifting the flats. The quicker worked surface lures are catching some better-

saltwater and the holes in the upper river and creeks and in the mangroves where trees are down.

BEACHES Beaches have been fishing well with the storms.

It pushes all the bait down the rivers and creeks and ends up out in the gutters along the beaches. You have a good chance of some school mulloway, trevally

and even the odd jack mixing with your beach locals such as dart, bream, flathead and tailor.

Some really big shovelnose are being caught around the mouth and the sand pumping jetties. Large baits on big long shank hooks

Tilapia have been getting eradicated over the month, but more people need to join the fight to eradicate them.

Bread, dough, worms and grubs are the go for tilapia.

The bite is better in the afternoon as they are very territorial when it comes to

Andrew Ennever with a 58cm GT that munched his livebait while soaking it for a jack. are working well, as is live baits if you can get it to stay in the gutter. Pipis at Kirra and Casuarina, beachworms at Fingal, Kingy and Back beaches, and Hastings Point, and small strip baits, white bait, and pilchards (whole and half) have all been working well off the headlands as well as the beach gutters.

FRESHWATER The rain has helped heaps with filling of the drying pools and shrinking ponds. With the rains the bass and natives can move around again as well as have food brought to them.

Targeting drains, run-offs, rapids, weirs, waterfalls and below dam walls will be, and has been, the go this month. With reaction bites lure placement is crucial.

Surface lures at dusk and dawn have been fishing well. Jig spins, spinnerbaits, plastics, crankbaits and vibes are all working well after sun up. Get up in that dirtier water and get those lures in tight. It’s all about the reaction bites. For something different try a worm or grub under a float. You never know what you will catch. I have caught large catfish, big mullet, big bass, spangled perch and even eels on the humble old garden worm.

It’s always a lucky dip when fishing with worms or grubs.

their nests. So, a well placed cast into or next to the nest is too irresistible to these pests and they will hit it.

NEXT MONTH Mackerel, wahoo, mahimahi, and billfish will feature in every offshore fishing trip over the next month and as they move along the coast. Weather conditions will dictate the success rates. Jacks will continue to feed up over the month and will be quite ravenous. Large baits and heavy gear will only stop the ones that want to be caught, so fishos will have better luck with smaller ones on lures.

Whiting will keep dominating the skinny water, but will start to sit more in the channels as the month goes on and the flatties start to push back up into the skinny water.

Crabs are normally at their fattest at this time of year. Placing your pots up in the mangroves, up back rivers and creeks and close to the brackish as possible will be the go as they move back upriver after their spawning run. The river and dams will continue to fish well over the next month. But as the month goes on, try fishing more around the brackish and weir walls. They will hold around these places over the next month.

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Hot days make for a hot bite BALLINA

Joe Allan

The Richmond River has been fishing exceptionally well over last month. The clarity of the water in the bottom end of the river

the Pimlico Island flats with walkers.

If you’re after a feed of whiting, be sure to try the flats across from the town centre around the RSL club or the weed beds around north creek.

Also, make sure you

Try baits such as mullet and black fish frames. The bigger tides seem to have bought the best numbers on.

The rock walls along the town stretch and up Emigrant Creek are producing some good numbers of quality bream on light crankbaits. Again, rock crab colour in the Atomic Crank 38 is the stand out.

You may well come across a few of our red friends – the mighty mangrove jack – so be prepared to either beef up

your gear or revisit the local tackle store. Although, they do say that if you’re not getting hung up on snags, you’re not in the strike zone. A new lure that has been catching some good fish is the popper from Bassday called the Backfire 65. These are full wire through lures and they have already accounted for a few jacks around the place.

There are some good size flatties still being caught along the Porpoise Wall and in Mobbs Bay. Live baits and heavy

Jamie Conway with a nice snapper caught on a pilchard at Riordans Reef.

Father and son Adrian and Anthony Melchior with some beautiful Aussie bass from Bungawalbin Creek. is ultra clear, resulting in fishing in the middle of the day very difficult.

However, the long, hot days and humid evenings have really got the surface fishing going gangbusters!

If you’re wanting to chase some bream, try

have something geared up for a flathead, as you will come across some good fish and be able to sight cast them in the shallows.

The mud crabs have been firing, with good catches reported along the mid sections of the river.

Ben Rampling with a stonker flathead caught from the Porpoise Wall on a live bait.

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plastics on the last half of the run-out are always worth a shot. Small crankbaits and plastics up on the flats in Mobbs are also solid performers,

especially when the water is dirty towards the bottom half of the run-out.

There are some good numbers of bream getting caught off the beaches.

On the other hand, the dart and tailor have been a little quiet. However, you can start to try the gutters around Boundary Creek along South Ballina for some good size flathead.

Blades, slugs and heavy soft plastics will do the trick if you can’t come across some fresh bait.

OFFSHORE Offshore there have been some quality snapper on the 32s as well as some good size trag. The mahimahi have still been

very consistent off the FAD, with the unexpected low numbers of mackerel, since mid-December. If you are in search of them, know that they can be a diverse feeding species when it comes to locations.

One day they’ll be at Black Head and the next at Riordans Reef.

FRESHWATER The surface action in the freshwater reaches has been going really well of late. Unweighted soft plastics imitating a prawn or small frog are working well when skipped under trees, and are a really fun way to fish. Spinnerbaits and chatterbaits have also been producing good fish.

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The author with a flathead caught from the shallows of Mobbs Bay.

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31

Reef fish make up for lack of mackerel YAMBA

Dave Gaden

Autumn is here, but don’t expect a quick change in the conditions as far as daily water temperatures are concerned this month. For all those who suffered through the end of December and all of January with the cold

Head and Shark Bay had days of warm water and the best bait shoals you could ever want to find, but the mackerel seemed to stay out wide in the hot current and charge south past us again.

Now we wait for their return, and I expect this month they will be thick both north and south of Yamba.

While the mackerel didn’t play like they should

and trag, with a few pearlies on the bottom as well as mackerel for those fishing floaters. They will be easier to spot this month, as they bunch up a bit tighter on

your luck at a big Spanish, then try the Freebun Rock.

The best advice is to troll livies a long way behind the boat at dead idle around the bommie. Be very aware that

Chris nailed this cracker of a snapper offshore of Yamba. current right on the coast making for happier and hungrier fish.

For those heading offshore this month, you won’t need to travel big

distances, as March quiet often produces its best fish on the reef closest to the bar. The good old Northeast Corner only 5nm from the bar can hold nice snapper

Jack took this double header of pearlies. water temperature and consistent northeasters, this month should make up for it.

Our mackerel run in the early summer was once again almost a non-event.

Very few fish were taken on even fewer days. Woody

Don Causley got stuck into some nice mulloway on a recent charter.

have, the reef fish have been pretty good. We were consistently coming home with nice catches of snapper and pearlies on the charter boats, even when the water seemed too cold and dark to get a bite. March will be a lot better, with the warm

Young Ellie Highlands from Tamworth enjoying the local snapper fishing.

the down current side of the higher parts of the reef.

It’s a good playground around the Northeast Corner, with about 5 acres of really good reef running south-southwest.

If you want to chance

any swell around this reef breaks, so stay a good safe distance and sound it out before getting too close for your own safety.

If last March is anything to go on, the FAD approximately 12nm

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southeast of the bar will be holding plenty of mahimahi, wahoo and Spanish mackerel. It is

a bit of a run out to the FAD, and sometimes you arrive only to find a couple of other boats are already

Pearlies are plentiful at this time of year, as Tom Munro found out.

hammering it, but don’t get discouraged. Have a fish on the reef south of the FAD until they leave and give it half an hour.

You will find good blue spot flathead and plate size snapper all over the broken rock and gravel out there. Mahimahi may be the fastest growing fish around, but not the smartest. They need to eat constantly and will just return after being scared off to have another go, but you will never catch them all.

North you will have the good old reliable Woody Head to troll or float bait for a mackerel. From there, head up to Black Rock and South Evans, as there will be nice mulloway this month and some really good snapper.

A lot of the ground up there holds pockets of sand in the middle of the reef and quite often you will find you are catching the little red spotted whiting at the same time you are getting trag and snapper. Throw these fish straight back into the water, but make sure there is a 6/0 hook hanging out of their back when you do it! Some of our best snapper and mulloway have been taken on a live red spot whiting, and there is usually no bite, just a smash and run as it hits the bottom.

Don took this lovely snapper on a nice clear day.

In the estuary the crabs, both blue swimmers and muddies, should be nearly prevalent enough to keep you occupied this month.

With Easter not until late April this year, the traffic on the river will be reduced, and that usually means better catches. Oyster Channel will be well worth a look all the way from the bridge to the Lake Woolawayah

and Romiaka for those who know their way through the narrow channels.

There should be some good flathead around, head upstream to the boat ramp at the Big4 Caravan Park on Palmers Island and fish the shallow water in front of the mangroves from there to the gun club heading west. There are some really good weed beds over the

shallows and the flathead seem to lay in ambush there in big numbers.

Romiaka Island would be my second choice.

So pack the car and head to Yamba this month to fill the freezer for Easter! Call into the shop at the marina and I’ll draw you a map of where to go or find you a seat on one of my charters offshore!

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33

Squeeze in some family fishing COFFS HARBOUR

Stephen Worley info@tdsimages.com.au

The last full month of daylight savings means March is the time to take

advantage of the after work and school sessions. For this reason, it’s a good time to look at some of the family and kid friendly fishing options on the Coffs Coast.

The last couple of months have almost been

a write off for offshore anglers. Apart from the odd day of calm weather, the northeast sea breezes have been almost non-stop. This has brought the deepwater upwelling and winter temperatures in the coastal

waters. Temperatures as low as 17°C have been recorded and that’s about as cold as it gets around here. The summer pelagics haven’t really filtered into the coast and the horrible conditions mean anglers haven’t really had much of a chance to target the ones that have arrived. This month should hopefully see these weather patterns weaken. What we really need is a good 3-4 days of southerly winds.

It’s then that we should see the warm water return inshore and the summer pelagics with it.

The estuaries, however, have been interesting over the last month. Hot and dry weather mixed with very cool offshore water has meant that the creeks and rivers have fished quite differently between high and low tide.

The warm creek water at low

The beginning of 2019 saw strong northeast winds that kept the warm water away and the snapper on the target list. tide in the smaller creeks has been empty of fish activity, possibly due to low oxygen levels. On the higher tide the

cooler ocean water has been sparking life into the lower estuaries, with clearer, more oxygenated conditions.

One great thing when fishing with the kids is that if one catches a fish, they’ve all caught a fish. Here Micah is surrounded by his brother and cousins who are checking out his catch!

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Bream and whiting have been very active on the incoming tide. Moonee Creek, Boambee Bay, Mylestom and Urunga all offer great locations to fish with the whole family

a classic for young kids and should net some bream and mullet in any of these locations. Pumping yabbies on a sandbank is a sure thing for whiting, flathead or bream.

rock walls and weed banks has been very successful on those incoming tides.

Throwing poppers for whiting around a sand bank can make for a particularly fun after school session.

The beaches are a great option for fishing with the kids. It’s easy to get around barefoot and there are plenty of fish in the gutters at the moment. after work and school. If you look for afternoons that have high tide around sunset then you should find plenty of activity.

Bread under a float is

For those with a little more experience in the casting department, throwing soft plastics, hardbodies or poppers around the sand banks,

The locations mentioned previously, as well as Bonville Creek, Valla Creek and the Nambucca River, all have great sand banks that have been producing some

great whiting. In these areas you can walk knee deep in clear, cool water on a hot afternoon. They will tend to perform best on the rising tide and will typically shut down soon after the tide turns, although some of the deeper banks may continue to produce whiting as the tide drops.

Higher up in the estuaries the trevally and mangrove jacks have been very active. Bonville and Boambee creeks and the Kalang and Bellinger rivers have all been very productive in their middle sections, and offer great stretches to spend the afternoon in the kayak or tinny chasing trevally and jacks in the snags. You can also catch mulloway around the bridges, drop-offs and walls. Soaking a live bait is always popular, but I find that it’s a lot more exciting and active for the kids to be using lures. Erratic, subsurface stickbaits and diving harbodies have been the most successful, but surface lures have attracted their fair share when fished around the change of light and the higher tides.

The end of daylight savings also signifies the wind down of the bass season, especially the after-work evening trips.

The Bellinger and Kalang

rivers and tributaries offer great sections to throw a surface lure around of an evening. A canoe or kayak can make it easier, but there are many sections that can be fished on foot.

Despite the small cicada season we’ve had, the bass have been very happy to hit the surface crawlers at almost any time of day.

If we don’t get some rain we can expect to find the biggest bass in the largest and deepest pools.

Although probably not an after-work trip for most anglers, a trout fishing trip is another easy fishing trip if not too many children are tagging along. There are plenty of options for open, grass-lined streams that are easy to walk for the kids, while still offering good

trout fishing. Unfortunately, it’s these open streams that are most susceptible to the hot and dry weather, and they may not be in the best condition unless we get some rain and cooler weather.

There are several options on the Dorrigo plateau for a sneaky Friday afternoon fish and camp by the river. The bush streams, such as those in the New England National Park, are often a great option during the hot dry seasons, with the surrounding bush offering protection from a harsh summer.

Whether it’s the kids heading fishing to get out of the house, or you’re going fishing to get some peace, there should be plenty of good fishing options this month.

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35

The summer’s gone, the streams are drying NAMBUCCA

Riley Wilson

As we move into March we see the end of summer, but the warm water species will kick on for a little while yet.

The fishing lately has been great in the rivers when the weather has been playing the game, but the offshore anglers have only had a handful of days left to get out after the mackerel.

Up in the rivers and creeks, casting lures or fishing fresh dead baits has been pretty successful, with the typical culprits coming to the party. The dry weather has seen a lot of species move back upstream following the baitfish. Flathead have still been fishing well, with some really good fish getting caught and released. Mikey Carter has been throwing swimbaits at flatties and after a lot of casting, has

of hungry bass staging under trees waiting for anything that flutters or pops across the surface.

I had some anglers in the shop the other day who were keen to get away from the wind and do a bit of bassing.

I pointed them in the general direction of some good water, warned them about the local snakes, and sent them off for an adventure. I received a picture the next day of Josh with a very respectable 47cm bass as a result of their bush bashing mission!

Moving into autumn should see the pelagic

species pick up even more, so hopefully the weather cleans up and allows crews to get amongst the action.

If you’re keen on a little land-based game fishing, then you should gear up and head for the more prominent headlands around the area and put in lots of time casting lures or drifting livebaits.

• If you are fishing on the Nambucca or just want some great gear and the best advice, drop in and see Riley or Rob at the Boatshed Cafe and say hi they will be happy to help with all your fishing needs.

Big swimbaits work really well on big flathead, however a bit of searching is always necessary.

Mangrove jacks have been active in the creeks around Nambucca.

managed to crack a bit of a pattern.

The incredible run of jacks has continued, and some of the young guns have been throwing topwaters and having a great time trying to save their favorite lures

getting stashed in the deepest of snags. Toby Jeffery got lucky and smacked his first jack on a topwater and it was a cracker!

Up in the fresh, bass fishing has been going well, with clean water and plenty

Bass are very active in the clear freshwater upstream.

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Southerly change needed for offshore success SOUTH WEST ROCKS

Brent Kirk kempsey@compleatangler.com.au

So far this year it has been the windiest summer I can remember. The nor-east winds have been absolutely relentless, with winds over 20 knots being almost a daily occurrence.

northern reefs from Grassy Head up to Scotts Head.

Spanish mackerel are also being found up on those reefs, but better numbers of these fish are being found from Trial Bay Gaol down to Hat Head, with a few being found down at Point Plommer.

Cobia have made a fairly strong appearance this

be prepared to tangle with some big shovelnose sharks if fishing bait into the dark.

The lower reaches of the Macleay have been alive with baitfish ranging from mullet and herring through to tailor and pike. Kingfish and cobia have been coming in and out of the river with the tides having an absolute field day on the bait that is present. Some large flathead and jacks have been along the rock walls taking advantage of the bait that is present also.

Further upstream the sand flats are still fishing well and are definitely

worth a crack if you cannot get offshore.

Bream, whiting and flathead are all up into the shallows making for great targets on small surface lures.

Extremely hot days have made bass fishing a bit tough upriver, with very high water temperatures being found in the pools – especially where there is a lot of weed present.

Drawing strikes from the better fish is quite difficult with the exception of the pre-dawn and after dark periods where these fish seem to muster up enough energy to have a go at your surface lures.

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Jay Stiller, 15yo, with a cracking spotted mackerel taken on a pilly.

Much-needed southerly changes have been few and far between lately, so here is hoping the wind god’s cooperate during March and offer us some type of reprieve.

On the days when the weather does play along, offshore fishing can see some good catches of mackerel with some solid spotties coming in off the

year in these same haunts with fish over 30kg coming in on several occasions. If you want to target these guys it pays to send a live yellowtail down deep, as these baits are less likely to be taken by a mackerel than if you were to send down a live slimy mackerel. A few good mulloway have been taken off the bottom this season while fishing for

Some big flathead can be taken at this time of year.

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Dean Stiller, 11yo, caught this 60lb mulloway by sending a live bait to the bottom in search of a Spaniard when the surface bite was quiet. mackerel, so that is another good reason to send a bait down deep.

The black marlin bite has been off and on this season, with most of the early fish seeming to congregate from Hat Head south down past Crescent Head. Wahoo have been out along the 50m line south of the gaol with schools of small yellowfin tuna around Fish Rock. Kingfish have been around Fish Rock and Black Rock along with some good snapper especially early morning and late afternoon into the evening.

For rock hoppers March is the beginning of when the ledges start to really heat up. There is plenty of bonito and other bait species in close around the headlands at present and it is safe to say that our autumn run of longtail tuna will commence any day now. Cobia and kingfish have been in the washes of a daytime, as has some quality mulloway. Fishing into the dark is accounting for good numbers of school mulloway as well as some thumping bream and even the odd tailor right on dark.

The beaches are warming up a bit now, with

flathead being the most reliable species to target in the gutters during the day. Whiting numbers on the beaches have been a bit sporadic so far, seeming like a lot of the whiting are still in the river. Fishing on the tide changes around dark is accounting for bream and mulloway, however

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37

Time to shine offshore THE HASTINGS

Mark Saxon castawayestuarycharters@bigpond.com

A couple months into the New Year and despite the recent howling northerlies

and racing offshore currents, the fishing off Port Macquarie has been very good.

The recent run of black marlin inshore has kept our trailer boat fleet very happy, with some great fish being

caught and released. All reports suggest trolling a live bait has been sensational, but some smaller skirted lures have been doing very well, so now is the chance for some of our smaller boats to chase one of these prime gamefish.

This black marlin was a first for Ollie Henry.

Eric with a quality flatty taken from the upriver reaches.

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Spanish and Spotted mackerel should be making an appearance now, and last month the South West Rocks fishers were starting to get a few, so this should really fire up in Plomer Bay and wider this month.

Port Macquarie’s two offshore charter vessels have been getting their clients onto some excellent fish, with snapper, teraglin, mulloway and pearl perch all being caught. Offshore fishers should be looking at the patchy reefs littered between Port Mac and Camden Haven if they want to get into some of this action, or if you are not sure, get aboard a charter and get out there and enjoy a day on the ocean.

BEACH FISHING Red weed had created a few problems for our local beaches, with the northerly winds and tides pushing it in, however not all beaches got effected. Hopefully by now we are seeing the end of it!

The fishing for whiting, bream and school mulloway was very reasonable, and for those searching out some of

the cleaner water, they were rewarded.

This month it is still well worth hitting the sand, and I’m hoping to see some good mulloway action from North and Lighthouse beaches.

As always, find the gutters, holes and sandbanks and you will be in with a chance.

RIVERS Flathead have been around in very good numbers in the Hastings and fishing anywhere from Pelican Island up to beyond the road bridges has seen some quality fish landed. Soft plastic lures have really stood out, with curl-tail grubs and prawn imitations the pick recently, and casting to the edges has been getting results on the flatfish and bream.

Bream lure enthusiasts have been catching some great fish on surface prawn imitations this season, and this will again be the case this month, with the amount of small prawns busting up.

This year I have not seen any cicadas on the water, and after such a massive season last year it is a bit disappointing. What new lure anglers should realise is you can still catch bream on cicada imitations, but if prawns are the major food item then change to a stickbait or similar – just match the hatch!

Bream have not been the only fish to be getting into the prawns, with whiting and some of the biggest trevally I have seen in our river getting in on the action. Trevally have been busting up on the surface throughout the river,

and it is as close as you get to a sure thing that if you throw your surface lure into them, you will be on!

Remember, if you haven’t got a surface offering, just cast your plastic into the bust up and you should hook up.

Jason caught this whiting on a sandflat.

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Colin and Carol with the results of a double hook up on feeding trevally.

A time of change HARRINGTON-TAREE

Ian Pereira ianpereira@aapt.net.au

The past month has produced some difficult weather for the average angler to cope with. There have been some nasty northeasters for many days. Some blew day and night for two or three days at a time.

Not many outside anglers were able to handle the rough conditions, and consequently not many fish were boated while the winds were up.

The red weed that was blown onto the beaches didn’t make things any easier, and it also trickled into the mouths of the rivers, putting the fish off the bite. There were some dead fish in Crowdy Boat Harbour and some sick fish on the beaches with their gills stuffed with red weed. One lucky visitor was walking along Crowdy Beach and spotted some flathead in the shallow water. The hapless fish had been forced ashore by the red weed coming into the shallow gutters where they were sitting, and the visitor took home a nice feed.

Along with the red weed and wind, we have experienced some decent storms lately. It has not rained much on the coast but the headwaters of the Manning got 75mm in one storm and 43mm in another. Not enough but it is a start.

March is the time when mullet start to move around the river in schools, and this activity brings the

mulloway, kingfish and sharks into the lower parts of the estuary. At these times a live bait or a fresh slab can get the lucky angler an unbelievable strike and a tremendous fight. A bobby cork rig is the best way to fish in these conditions.

March is the perfect time

20kg patrolling the wall, but none have been landed.

Bream and flathead are still on the bite in the river, with the flathead more numerous upstream from the mouth of the river.

Before the dreaded red weed hit the coast, there was good fishing to be had.

The author with an 8kg mulloway from the beach. Photo courtesy of Harrington Bait & Tackle. for large mulloway up to 20kg and also small kingfish around 5kg, and the best way to catch both species is with live bait. There are some larger kings up to

Craig Jones with a quality bar cod caught wide off Crowdy Head. Photo courtesy of Harrington Bait & Tackle.

Crowdy Beach had formed up with one long gutter stretching the length of the beach. There was one section of the gutter where the sand came in close to the beach, and this proved to be an ideal place to fish for mulloway.

At least five fish up to 10kg were caught from this spot on worms before the red weed put an end to the sport.

The mulloway anglers also picked up some nice bream and whiting.

The water in close has been cold, hovering around 16-17ºC. Not many fish have been taken in these areas.

However, out wider in 120m of water or even deeper, there have been some good catches.

Snapper, pearl perch, trag and cod have been boated.

The northeasterlies have abated somewhat now, so the outside anglers will be able to get out to the deeper water where the temperature is up around 28ºC. March is a time of change in the Manning. Mullet start to come down the river with bream not far behind them. Whiting come on the bite and there are still some big flathead around (most anglers are now releasing the big female flathead to breed, which is great to see). The greenback tailor also turn up at this time of year, and make great angling from the rocks and beaches!

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39

Estuaries are filled to the bream FORSTER

David Seaman dseamo@bigpond.com

Slipping into autumn is welcomed and a comfort that is shared by many anglers. The relentless northeast winds will ease and change directions, the daily temperature will start to drop, and the warm offshore currents

are now a highway for pelagics.

The spotties and occasional Spanish mackerel should be turning up in increasing numbers at locations like Latitude and Snapper Rock. They are also good spots to troll a live slimy or skirt for a small black or striped marlin, and while the beaky scene can be a hit or miss fishery, the odds are in your favour at this time of

the year. Find the warm water and the bait and you will find the big predators.

If this March is anything like last year the mackerel will be big and plentiful and the weather should be tame enough for everyone to sneak out for a fish. The spotties and Spanish will gather in numbers after the

Closer to home the lake has been producing heaps of blue swimmer crabs and enough prawns to satisfy those who put the effort in. From all accounts the mud crabs have been a little bit more difficult, and I am hopeful they have just had a late start to their season. Breckenridge Channel is the most popular prawning

A surface-sucking bream that just had to have a white cicada lure.

Surface fishing for bream is a great way to assemble a winning tournament bag before lunch.

This flathead was caught in the upper tidal zone chasing poddy mullet.

first smattering of fish and should hang around with the warm current until at least May. If the mackerel and marlin aren’t your scene, there are trag, pearl perch and pan-sized snapper on the reef and broken grounds. The dispersed snapper that were schooled up through winter are spread out along the coast at this time of year, but will respond to a good berley trail and an early morning assault.

Plastics bounced close to or across the bottom or pilchards and garfish drifted back in the berley will work on a variety of species, but particularly snapper.

venue, with 5-9 March being the prime new moon period to hit the prawns. The late high tides mean you will need to be on the water in the early hours of the morning, but sleep deprivation has its own rewards.

The primary focus for lure anglers in the estuary would have to be the bream that are spread right through the system. They are currently taking surface lures in the mornings and

afternoon periods. When the sky is overcast the bite will be extended, and a bit of rain won’t hurt either.

Lures that imitate prawns or cicadas are the go, and fished around the river edges of snags and mangrove roots you will see some action if you can cast close enough to the structure. To get consistent results from surface fishing you need to land the lure in under the shade of overhanging mangrove trees or hard up against the bank.

It more than doubles your chances of fish and a hook up.

If accurate casting isn’t your thing, then whiting over the flats on surface lures and flathead along the channels on soft plastics is always an option. While much of the focus is on lure fishing there is more potential in taking home a feed when using bait. Live worms are available from the boat sheds along Little Street, or you can gather your own. Pumping yabbies at the back of Little Tern Island or

around in Ohms Bay is an option, and both worm and yabby baits are perfect for the bream, whiting and flathead that are at their collective best this month.

If you want to boost your catch, try bait fishing of an evening around the structure of the leases, bridge and the weed edges in areas like Breckenridge Channel. In the low light, the bigger whiting and bream, that were spooky through the day, make an appearance and it won’t take long to knock a few over with fresh, live bait.

If you are after a big flathead for a brag mat shot, try the area around Tuncurry and Breckenridge Channel with big swimbaits. The large females that have spawned will be looking for a big feed, and a high vertical profile lure is ideal. Target shallow water and weed edges. With a bit of luck you will find a big girl, but there are plenty of 50-60cm consolation prizes to keep you happy.

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MARCH 2019

A big bream hitting the net during a late afternoon surface session.

The action ramps up for blue and black marlin SWANSEA

Jason Scerri coloratolures@hotmail.com

It was a little late to arrive but the heat hit us with a bang. Long periods of extreme hot weather has made fishing challenging at times, as the heat has been downright unbearable on some days.

If you are out there in these conditions, it is super important to stop playing the hero and start applying the old ‘slip-slop-slap’ rule. These days there are some fantastic clothing accessories to keep you protected from the elements and comfortable when you’re out in the hot Aussie sun. With head socks to protect your face and neck area to light weight breathable long sleeve shirts and super lightweight comfy sunglasses, there is really no excuse for getting burnt when out for a day’s fishing.

Onto the fishing front, things are also pretty hot.

For anglers wanting to fish a little closer to home, you’re in luck.

There is no shortage of marlin off Swansea just ready to pounce on the next lure pulled past their stick faces. Don’t be shy about putting a few lures out early in your trip. Too many anglers think they need to be 40nm out to sea to have a crack at marlin.

They could not be more wrong! There is some red-hot marlin fishing on our inshore grounds and you can certainly get a spread of lures in the water even as close as the ships and work the inshore grounds between the ships.

The area where the FAD is and ‘The Farm’ reef system will certainly have you in with a good chance of an inshore marlin.

Don’t go overboard with your lure spreads.

Depending on the number of people on board, anywhere between 3-5 lures is fine. I’d be looking at a 9” lure on the SC, 8” on the LC then throw a pair

Mick Pavlic just loves chasing bonito on his fly gear, and caught this nice specimen on a Surf Candy pattern.

The good fishing has continued on from last month and in some ways, it’s even improved! The marlin fishing has certainly ramped up a notch or two, with some very good numbers about. The Car Park area off Port Stephens is once again a very popular option for anglers, with those who enjoy drifting live baits around slimy bait balls scoring some good numbers of both black and striped marlin.

of 8” lures off the riggers and if it’s possible, then pop a small 6-7” lure out the back in the SG position.

Mix up the colours and wait for the bite. It shouldn’t be a long wait.

Mahimahi are also about in numbers, and although there are certainly plenty of smaller models in between the best size fish, they still provide hours of fun, and those over legal size provide a great meal when cooked fresh.

For anglers wanting to specifically target the better size fish, going to the effort to score live baits prior to heading to the FADs or fish traps will pay dividends.

If you’re more interested in numbers than size, then cubed pilchards are the way to go. Enough weight in your sinker to get under the surface and a small 1/0-2/0 hook should provide you with plenty of fun.

INSHORE Moving in a little closer to the shore and the action is remaining hot, with some sensation pelagic action.

Small tuna, bonito and kingfish are boiling on the surface most days. The old saying of ‘go light to get the bite’ is certainly true if you’re wanting in on this action. Approach the schools slowly and try to cast into the schools while keeping your distance the best you can. This way you are less likely to spook the fish and keep the action on the surface for longer to enjoy. Small metal lures can work, but very small soft plastics and even fly fishing is proving extremely effective on these fish as well.

Much of the action is close to the channel mouth at Swansea Heads, but on occasions you might have to go for a little run down the coast, as they may be schooling off Caves Beach or anywhere down along the coast to Bird Island. Bird Island is also home to some very good kingfish action at this time of year. Live bait fishing around the island can be a great way to hook into some reasonable-sized kings, and there is often loads of undersize fish that can be a pain for some, but if you’re persistent and give the live baits a crack, that’s when the bigger fish come out to play.

THE LAKE Moving into the lake itself and the pleasure craft pressure has finally started to ease, with the holidays well and truly over now, and boat traffic getting back to some normality. This makes a huge difference to how the lake fishes and the approach that anglers need to take in order to score a few fish. It means that you can get away with a little sleep-in and hit the water a little later than during those busy periods. It also means, more importantly, that the bite can and will continue throughout the day, as the fish are far less spooked without all the traffic and chaos that summer brings to holiday destinations such as Lake Macquarie.

Not all the action has remained hot. The squid are still about, but their numbers

have certainly dropped off in recent weeks. This seems to have also had an effect on the mulloway in the lake.

They are still about, but they

numbers are about, with some very solid fish in the mix. Lure anglers are seeing some good action, and those in the know realise

One thing is for sure, it has been a very hot summer this year and the lake really needs a solid dose of rain.

A big flush is critical for

Local fisherman Joel with a marlin from a recent trip. Joel had to put in the kilometres and the hours, but this catch made it all worthwhile. just don’t seem to be as thick in numbers as they were in previous months.

The bream are one species that continues to fire at the moment. Some good

the importance of a change in weather when chasing bream. Get the conditions right and the action can be some of the best bream fishing you will experience.

the lake to remain in prime condition, so hopefully some good rains are on the way so we can get a good flush and return to some great estuary action.

Tall fish tales told here.

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MARCH 2019

41

March will have something for everyone PORT STEPHENS

Paul Lennon

March is a time of year that I really look forward to. It’s the start of autumn and the start of the three best months of the year to be fishing in Port Stephens.

There are black marlin in close, striped and blues on the shelf, longtail tuna, snapper and kingfish on the inshore reefs. Surface feeding bream, big flathead and mulloway are holding in the bay and there are plenty of larger mulloway on the beaches. It’s a

time when just deciding what species you’re going to target can be a real dilemma.

Inside the estuary, monster lizards are lurking in the shallows from Jimmys Beach through to Taylors Beach. Early morning high tides can see flathead moving

Frigate mackerel will enter the estuary this month, providing epic fun on light gear.

Quality bream are still hitting surface lures.

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right up into the shallows to hunt juvenile whiting, poddy mullet, prawns and other small fry.

A medium size soft plastic or hardbodied lure around 100mm will be a perfect imitation to use for flathead through these areas. There have been some real thumpers around lately, and it’s good practice to release the larger fish over 70cm, especially now with the latest research showing how important these big breeders are to the future of the fishery.

Bream have been hitting surface lures around the Tea Gardens through to Soldiers Point and should continue to do so until the end of April.

Bream have also been biting well for those who prefer using bait. Live nippers or mullet fillets cast around the rock walls or oyster racks on a high tide are a deadly way to get amongst them.

Loads of baitfish have moved into the system with schools of tailor and bonito working the middle of the bay. Frigate mackerel will also join the mix this month – these mini torpedos are great fun but will only usually take small metals around the 5g mark.

On the ocean beaches whiting are still in good numbers along Fingal, Samurai and Stockton beaches with live worms the key to catching them. Solid bream up to 1kg are also starting to move along the surf zone, so don’t be surprised if you come home with a mixed bag of bream and whiting.

Mulloway are on the hunt after dark from Stockton and Hawks Nest, especially around the full moon.

Off the rocks there are plenty of bonito, tailor, salmon, mac tuna and the odd kingfish. These species

are providing plenty of fun at the moment for anglers spinning with 30-60g metal lures. By the end of the month we should also start to see some longtail tuna showing up, which anglers will be hanging out for.

It’s a great time of year for inshore black marlin with anywhere from the backs of the islands through to Seal Rocks potentially holding them. Keep an eye on sea surface charts to give you a good idea of where the best water is, and then slow troll the area with live slimy mackerel.

There are plenty of mahimahi holding on the FAD, with lures and cut baits working well during the early morning. However, once a few boats have worked it over and the sun rises, you may need to resort to live baits.

There is also a good mix of marlin on the shelf, with plenty of blues and stripes being caught.

Teraglin and a few decent reds are also adding to the mixed bag, coming from the bottom at the Vee, 21 and Gibber reefs.

Big flathead are in good numbers at the moment.

Erina is the place to be ERINA

Aaron Donaldson

Offshore activities have really started to fire as the warmer water moves in, bringing a myriad of species for us keen anglers to target.

Bait has been stacking up in a big way and so have the marlin!

By the time you read this things should be in full swing, with both black and striped marlin patrolling the inshore grounds. Try targeting bait schools in 20-60m of water and you should see some action if the water quality is good. Some absolute tank kingfish have been about in the shallows off the coast. I saw a picture of one taken by local angler Darren Bekovac that had to be well over the 30kg mark. It’s so good to see fish of this size turning up in our area.

have some serious tackle because these shallow water monsters do not muck around!

Rock fishing has been

Gun local angler Matt Zhara tight to an inshore marlin recently. nothing short of fantastic recently. Bonito and frigate mackerel have been awesome fun on the smaller slugs around

Another quality bream hits the wharf... Smiles all round!

Live baits are the go on the kingfish, and they have a particular liking for jumbosized yellowtail. Try fishing early morning or on dark in 20-30m and make sure you

with plenty of flathead on tap.

These fish bring so much fun for the kids and newer anglers, being the perfect species to

10-20g. Areas to try would be The Haven at Terrigal, The Skillion and also the South Avoca Platform.

Brisbane waters is in the usual summer fishing mode

target for your first fish on a lure. Bream fishing should be really hitting its peak right now and the surface action is hard to beat this time of year.

Early morning starts are par for the course and when that magical time coincides with a good size high tide you have the recipe for a red-hot session!

Most flats hold fish in Brisbane Waters although sometimes you have to cover some area to hit a few schools.

There has still been some big kingfish about in the lake as well so it pays to have a heavy stickbait setup just in case they pop up out of the blue.

The beaches have been relatively quiet even for the tailor – we just don’t get the same runs of them we used to. Although, there have been some nice mulloway around to make up for the lack of tailor.

The bait fishing anglers have been catching some really nice models around The Entrance Beach and some local anglers are starting to have some good success fishing some big soft plastic shads. Once again, early mornings or late afternoons proving best results.

Hope you all have a great time on the water this month and I hope to see you out there!

Aiden List was super pumped to land this king out fishing with his dad Jamie.

MARCH 2019

43

Persistence is key HUNTER COAST

Shannon Malone

Summer is in the rear view mirror, but I wouldn’t recommend packing the fans and coolers away yet, as we are bound to cop a few more warm days!

In saying that, the shorter days and colder nights will be upon us before we know it.

With water temperatures at their peak at the moment there’s a lot on offer when it comes to methods and species. It’s best to cover your bases, as that way you can fish alternate areas to identify the inhabitants. If you’re fishing with bait it’s often best to have a variety on hand such as prawns,

pilchards and chicken gut – that way you get to determine what is working best in that area. On your next trip be sure to mix it up and try squid, a slab of mackerel or tuna fillet and some live poddy mullet. Alternatively, if lures are your preferred method, a good selection of colours and sizes is bound to attract some attention.

Anglers that are new to the lure scene will often only try one or two colours, and after a few casts they are already heading back to the bait bucket, mumbling to themselves that “these lures don’t work”. That’s not always the case; size, colour and how the lure is presented are all key factors to success, and just because you didn’t catch anything on it after

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five casts doesn’t always mean the lure doesn’t work.

It’s often the wrong colour choice or presentation, or there are simply no fish in that part of the waterway.

My advice to the novice lure angler is to persist, and eventually it will happen.

Once you crack the code the floodgates will open and your obsession with lures will begin!

Rod choice is important when lure fishing. When you’re bait fishing it’s best to use glass-tipped rods like Ugly Stiks or Muscle Tips, which aren’t going to achieve the required action to work a lure correctly, ultimately absorbing too much of the action due the flexible tip on these type of rods. On the other hand, graphite rods are much more suited to work lures effectively, due to their stiffer action, and they are generally lighter. Often they have a shorter butt and are more comfortable to use overall compared to a glasstipped rod.

Plenty of fishing news is coming in from all angles! The Harbour is still producing some quality flathead, bream, whiting and mulloway. A few chopper tailor are about, and there are

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A quality mahimahi caught recently. These are one of the best tasting fish in the ocean if eaten fresh. reports of a few larger kings hanging around the wharves and structure around the loader, feeding on the schools of yakkas and slimies. The mullet will begin to school up as they approach their annual pilgrimage up the coast, which in turn will see plenty of bigger predators taking full advantage of the numbers. It becomes a smorgasbord for different species, and the larger mulloway will be lurking nearby to get their share.

Some decent size tailor are schooling off the break walls, with early morning or late afternoons being the best times to target them on ganged pillies or metal lures.

It also won’t be long before the longtails arrive, although you will need to travel a little further north from Port Stephens upwards. We do occasionally get reports of longtails being caught land-based and inshore off Newcastle and Swansea, but not in the numbers you will find up around areas like Seals Rocks and South West Rocks.

The beaches are still firing with tailor, bream, whiting and some nice sand flathead. If you’re gathering beachworms remember to be mindful of bag limits, as the limit is 50 whole or part

of a worm. For example, if you catch one beach worm and it breaks up into 50 pieces, that’s your limit, so look after your baits by keeping them cool and moist. If you find pipis you can only use them on the beach; you cannot take any unused pipis with you. Also, as mentioned earlier, the larger sized silver unicorns (mulloway) will be on the prowl as the mullet start to school along our beaches over the coming weeks.

Offshore season definitely kicked into gear a little later than usual, with those ‘just right’ conditions few and far between, which has limited shelf runs for most anglers. Some nice mahimahi have been caught though, with larger fish taken on skirts around the FADs and just about anything floating in the water. A couple of wahoo have also been reported. Marlin numbers have been down on previous years, but those anglers who have put in the time have been rewarded for their efforts. The marlin haven’t been monsters but they are still what the doctor ordered to satisfy most game anglers!

Kings, bonito, snapper, the odd perch and mulloway are on the chew around the

inshore reefs and in areas such as Broughton to the north and Moon and Bird islands to the south. Trolling hardbodied lures such as the Rapala X-Rap 10” or 12” have been working well in the bonito, mullet and mackerel colours, with all of them doing the damage when targeting bonito, tailor and kings. Attach a crane or ball bearing type swivel onto the split ring (tow point of the lure), and this will allow the lure to be trolled at a faster pace without blowing out of the water.

I also recommend changing the trebles to an in-line single hook, as it makes it much easier to unhook a fish. The fish also release a lot better because they haven’t been out of the water for a long time while you’re trying to remove the trebles. Trebles also tend to cause damage to the fish’s mouth and gills, causing excessive bleeding and tissue damage that often proves fatal.

There are reports of a few drummer about off the stones as well as tailor, salmon and bonito. And in the fresh there are reports of a few bass about in the Williams, Paterson and Hunter rivers as well as Lake St Clair and Lostock Dam.

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NSWFM reader Mark MacMurray sent this photo of his granddaughter Sophie, who caught this nice golden trevally on 10lb line on a holiday to the Sunshine Coast.

One eye on the weather NSW STH COAST

Steve Starling www.fishotopia.com

More than most other sports, hobbies or pastimes, recreational fishing is incredibly weatherdependent.

Having a reasonable idea of what’s likely to unfold on the weather front over the coming hours and days can

much has changed. Were the same patterns to be repeated today, that intense tropical low would be accurately tracked from the moment it formed over the Arafura Sea, with clear alerts issued to those in its path well before any significant impact was felt. Combined with modern building standards and today’s communication networks, this level of preparedness would dramatically reduce the threat

localised variations can have far reaching impacts.

If you’ve ever done any reading about a baffling branch of science called chaos theory, you’ll likely have heard of something called the ‘butterfly effect’. This is defined as ‘the sensitive dependence on initial conditions in which a small change in one state of a deterministic non-linear system can result in large differences in a later state’.

That sounds tricky, and it is!

What it effectively means is that a tiny variation in initial conditions can create significant outcomes, and that these outcomes can potentially occur far away in

One look at violent storm conditions such as these should be enough to instantly rule out any rock or offshore fishing plans.

The fish are biting, but the sea is rising fast as the wind picks up. Knowing when to pull stumps and run for home can potentially save your life. not only improve your catch rate and keep you dry, warm and happy, it might actually save your life!

Weather forecasting has certainly evolved in my half century as an angler. When I was a kid, the best way to get a handle on what was happening in the sky was to open a window and stick your head out! Official forecasts were notoriously untrustworthy, especially over time spans

to both human life and physical infrastructure.

While it’s still a popular Aussie sport to bash and even ridicule the much-maligned Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), the truth is they do a reasonably good job these days. Inputs of data from satellites, weather balloons, human observations and remote sensing stations are continuously fed into giant computers running complex

Always watch the skies. These clouds preceded a violent storm on the Tweed River in Far Northern NSW. both space and time from the initial influence. The extreme example cited is that a butterfly flapping its wings on the banks of the Amazon River in South America could (theoretically)

It’s lovely and calm now, but are those clouds telling a story? beyond 24 hours. You need only look back at Darwin’s lack of preparedness for Cyclone Tracy on Christmas Eve in 1974 to get an idea of how

models that the forecasters of my youth could only have fantasised about. The outcomes are impressive, but they aren’t perfect. That’s because tiny,

influence the weather in China! So, it’s not surprising the weather people still get it wrong from time to time.

My other observation

about the government-run BOM is that it’s a cautious, conservative and highly riskaverse organisation. In fact, as an angler, if I relied solely on the Bureau’s forecasts I reckon I’d hardly ever venture outside my front door, let alone offshore in a trailer boat! I have a theory that this risk-aversion intensified following the disastrous Sydney to Hobart yacht race of 1998, in which six lives and many vessels were lost, and 55 crew members were saved from mountainous seas in the largest peacetime rescue mission ever witnessed on Australian waters.

The Bureau copped a merciless flogging from the media and others over their failure to correctly forecast the severity of that 1998 storm, and they appear to have modified their predictive models and forecasting language as a result. Suffice to say that these days, they seem far more inclined to

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predict ‘fresh to frightening’ conditions (my terminology, not theirs!) than in the past.

In my opinion, serious anglers need to consult a number of sources when attempting to assess likely conditions for a planned trip, especially if venturing offshore or out onto large, exposed bodies of open water in small craft. The BOM should still be your first port of call, but it also makes sense to check at least a couple of other weather modelling sites or apps. Popular ones include Seabreeze, WillyWeather and Buoy Weather, along with my own personal favourite: Fish Ranger. Try all of these for yourself and assess which ones are most accurate in your neck of the woods.

My biggest tip is not to rely solely on any single source of forecasting. Even more importantly, listen for regular radio updates and maritime warnings while you’re on the water, and keep

your wits about you and your eyes open for telltale signs of unexpected weather shifts. In the end, sticking your head out the window (or above the boat’s console) is still the most effective and immediate forecasting tool.

I’ll never forget the day, half a century ago, when my old man suddenly craned his neck, sniffed the air and sternly declared that it was time to wind up our handlines and head in from the flathead drifting grounds off Tathra, on the Far South Coast of NSW. As an impressionable 11-year old, I was in awe, and ready to acknowledge his God-like powers… until I turned and looked south myself at the boiling mass of darkly bruised storm clouds quickly blotting out the horizon. Half an hour later, as we winched the little tinnie back onto the trailer, we were lashed by icy horizontal rain driven by the southerly buster from hell. It’s hard to beat a weather eye.

High, wispy clouds and so-called ‘mares’ tails’ indicate strong winds in the upper atmosphere and often precede strong winds at ground or sea level, too.

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45

Yellowtail Kingfish

The right gear to tackle kingfish SYDNEY

Gary Brown

I rate the yellow-tailed kingfish as one of the hardest fighting species that I have caught, and this is true whether they are big or small. This article is not just about catching big arm

schooling or solitary fish that travels the oceans and seas.

They can be found from the continental shelf, to offshore reefs, islands, upwellings, harbours, bays, rocky headlands and some rivers.

SYDNEY I have caught kingfish in the Parramatta River near the Putty Ferry, the Moons

Tagging has also shown that larger fish will travel further, with fish being tagged off NSW being recaptured off Victoria, Lord Howe Island and New Zealand.

SUGGESTED OUTFITS Over the years I have caught kingfish on a number of different outfits,

To imitate this feeing action, I hold my rod at around 60° and wind fairly quickly. This will have the baitfish’s head just out of the water while skipping across the surface.

When the kingfish hits the bait and hooks up on the ganged hooks, I can then still have enough angle to strike, setting the hooks.

You want your rod to have low-down power in the butt and flexibility in the tip to give you the control that you need to land these fish. My outfit is currently an Okuma Flexi Tip matched with an Azores 5500, while fellow NSWFM writer Alex Bellissimo uses an Alvey reel on a 3.6m Wilson Live Fibre rod when it comes to skipping those sea garfish for kingfish from the rocks.

When targeting kingfish from a boat in the bays and harbours of offshore, I prefer a shorter rod that still has the low-down power in the butt with a fast-tapered

You don’t always need an early start to get livebait for kingies, but it can help. Dead baits, such as butterflied yellowtail, also work. like this, not only can you troll diving hardbodied lures, you can also jig to your heart’s content and then cast poppers, stickbaits and soft plastics until your arms are about to fall off!

KINGFISH TECHNIQUES When targeting kingfish I like to keep my techniques as simple as possible. That

A legal sized kingfish in NSW has to be at least 65cm and can be caught in the estuaries, bays, off the rocks and offshore. This one that Andrew Humphries caught just missed the mark. pulling and back breaking monster kingfish, it’s about sharing a few techniques that I use when I target these fish from a boat or the shore.

Kingfish have the power, speed, stamina and strength to bring anyone to

in the Georges River and even as far up as Bar Point in the Hawkesbury River while bait fishing for bream and flathead.

In September 2018 the NSW DPI released 7000 juvenile kingfish (around 35-40cm long)

depending on whether I am fishing from a boat, off a break wall or wharf or off the rocks.

Generally speaking, kingfish require specialist tackle, the type of tackle that will stand up to those lineburning runs, rod-breaking lunges and never-give-up attitude. I find that you need rods that are lightweight and powerful where the power runs through the blank, while still having that flexibility in the tip section to throw either baits or lures.

Since my early days targeting kingfish off the rocks, I have always preferred to use either whole garfish or pilchards on a set of 6/0 Mustad ganged hooks.

Maybe you have noticed that when pilchards or garfish are fleeing from a predator they will skip across the surface.

1. A hook through the bridge of the nose. 2. Try butterflying your dead bait. 3. A single hook in a squid head or whole squid can be effective. 4. A cheap plastic skirt put over the head of a bait. 5. This snood rigged strip of fresh squid has been cut to imitate tentacles. 6. Putting a swivel onto the last hook in a gang helps stop the strip bait from spinning. flexible tip. This kind of rod can be used for live baiting, jigging and trolling.

I recommend a 7ft, 8-12kg rod matched with a 5500 size threadline spooled with 15kg braid. With an outfit

way there are fewer things that can go wrong. Well, that’s the hope!

You can get good results on stickbaits, 3”, 4”, 5”, 6”, 7” and 9” plastics, whole garfish, yellowtail, pike

A selection of the terminal tackle that the author uses for kingfish. their knees, making them one of the toughest fish on the planet. It doesn’t matter whether you call them kingies, hoodlums, yellowtail brawlers or bandits, they will push your tackle to the limit, and test your ability to tame them. This is why so many anglers want to catch one.

In Australian waters kingies are distributed from North Reef in Queensland all the way around the southern coast to Trigg Island in Western Australia. They also occur off the east coast of Tasmania and around Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands.

Kingfish are either a 46

MARCH 2019

into Botany Bay and another 3000 kingfish into Lake Macquarie. Then in December 2018 they released another 2000 into Botany Bay. Some were tagged before they were released.

Already some of these NSW DPI tagged kingfish have shown up in the Port Hacking, the Parramatta, Lane Cove and Iron Cover rivers, Sydney and Middle harbours and the Pittwater.

Studies have shown that yellowtail kingfish up to 60cm will remain in an area for at least 12 months, with most of them recaptured within 50km of their release point.

This young angler caught his first ever kingfish while fishing on Southern Sydney Fishing Charters. The angler in the background is also hooked up to a kingfish.

and pilchards, strips of salted tuna and tailor, squid strips and heads. You can either rig them on a set of ganged hooks or on single or multiple snooded hooks.

To imitate skipping baitfish on the surface, you should start your retrieve as soon as your bait or lure hits the water. The ideal retrieve speed varies; it’s just something you will have to work out on the day.

If skipping across the surface doesn’t work, you could always just cast out, let it sink and then start retrieving it back to the boat in a jerking stop-start motion. Many of my hits from kingfish have happened on the drop.

When using a set of ganged hooks, I always make sure the eye of the top hook in the set of gangs is a straight eye (for example a Mustad 4200). I attach a swivel to it, as this eliminates the need to have a swivel further up the line, and it will also stop your line twisting.

Can’t afford a downrigger?

Don’t worry, you can always use what I call a ‘poor man’s downrigger’. All you need to do is slide on a large barrel sinker above the swivel, and attach a 60-70lb leader of about 1-1.5m. Put on your bait or lure and lower it to the bottom. Then put the motor just into gear, and as it rises to about 45° put the motor out of gear allowing it to slowly sink down towards the bottom. The trick to this type of slow trolling is not to get the rig snagged on the bottom.

Four rigs at once Whether you are fishing at anchor over a reef or upcurrent from a maker buoy, you can fish four different rigs at the same time.

First, rig up a paternoster rig with only one leader of 1.5m in length. Lower it to the bottom, wind back up a couple of turns of the reel and then place the rod into the rod holder. This will allow either the bait or the soft plastic to swim in the current while still directly under the boat.

Secondly, lightly rig either a dead or live bait and

Yellowtail Kingfish slowly feed it out the back of the boat in the berley trail.

Thirdly, suspend a live bait like a yellowtail or squid underneath a bobby cork and cast it out the back and then sit the rod into the other rod holder.

Last but not least, rig up a plastic, stickbait or whole baitfish and cast and retrieve it through the berley trail.

Another option is vertical jigging, either at anchor or drifting. Drop the jig down and once it has reached the bottom, start to quickly

retrieve the jig back towards the surface in a fast jigging motion. This size of the jig will vary depending on the depth of the water, how fast the current is going and whether you are anchored or drifting. Just remember that vertical jigging is not for everyone. It can be quite taxing on the arms, shoulders and back at times.

LURES FOR KINGFISH Kingfish can be suckers for lures. The only problem that anglers have is which one will do the trick.

Kingfish can be caught on bibbed and bibless minnows, stickbaits, skirted lures, pushers, metal jigs, surface walkers and poppers, feathers, flies, blades and soft plastics.

SO WHERE DO YOU START? You will need to make a decision on whether you are going to troll, cast or jig.

Even though some of the lures out there you can do all three, it will depend on what outfit you are going to use as well.

An angler out off Long Reef in Sydney in his Hobie chasing kings with live yellowtail.

Downrigging close to the washes off the coast is a very productive way of getting kingfish. This one was caught while trolling a butterflied yellowtail on Fishabout Tours.

To give you an insight as to what I use I have listed below two of my outfits for targeting kingfish, along with some of the types of lures that I use.

Outfit 1 • Okuma Azores 7ft, 8-12kg rod matched with an Okuma Azores 5500 threadline spooled with 15kg braid • ZMan 7” Scented Jerk ShadZ • Fish Inc Lures Hooker 110mm sinking stickbait • Rapala X-Rap Long Cast Shallow • Rapala X-Rap Long Cast 1.5m • Rapala CD 9 and 11 • Halco Roosta Popper 80 and 105 • Halco Sliced Sparkler 50g • 7” and 9” Lunker City

Slug-Gos and Berkley 4” Power Minnows Outfit 2 • Okuma Competition CM-S-702M, 3-7kg rod matched with an Okuma Epixor 40 threadline spooled with 6kg Tuf-Line braid • ZMan 4” Scented Jerk ShadZ • ZMan 3.75” and 5” StreakZ • Fish Inc Lures Hooker 110mm sinking stickbait • Rapala CD 7 • Halco Roosta Pooper 60 • Halco Sliced in 10g, 15g, 20g, 30g and 40g • Lucky Craft Sammy 65 • 5” and 7” Lunker City Slug-Gos and Berkley 4” Power Minnows Techniques Trolling in close to the shoreline, I will have the lure

that is closest to the shore running shallow at about 1-2m deep and about 9-10m back. The one on the other side of the boat I run at about 3-4m and about 12m back.

If I’m running a third lure (either a soft plastic, skirted or metal lure) I run it directly down the middle at about 15m. Having the lures spread like this allows me to slowly turn around and go back over the same stretch of water without having to pull the lures in and reset them again.

The trolling speed is between 4-6 knots.

If you are after plenty of visual excitement when chasing kingfish, using a surface lure is the way to go. This can be done by To page 48

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47

Yellowtail Kingfish From page 47

casting the lure so that it lands past and/or beside a standing structure, and then start your retrieve. This may come in the form of a channel marker, floating buoy, a FAD or alongside a moored boat or floating pontoon. Kingfish are very inquisitive by nature, and can often be enticed to come out from the structure or cover to take your lure. You should vary the speed at which you retrieve them.

If you’re using a sinking stickbait or soft plastic you need to cast at or just beyond the structure. Allow it to sink for a few seconds, and then wind in the line so that you have no slack line on the water, and the tip of the rod is near the water.

Then it is a matter of jerking the rod back towards you fairly hard. This will make the jighead and plastic race through the water and fall for a second or two. Many of the takes occur when the

lure is falling, so get ready for the hit.

Have you ever tried to do two things at once? If so, this is where the ‘retrieve and shake’ method comes into play. You need to hold your rod upright while twitching the rod tip and retrieving it at the same time. This will cause the lure to dart from side to side. Maybe you could also add in a pause or two.

I don’t know how many times I have been using

If you don’t have a downrigger you can try using a very large barrel sinker above the swivel and a 1.5m leader, and slowly troll it.

This angler caught one of the 9000 kingfish that were released by the DPI Fisheries in late 2018.

blades to target bream, whiting, flathead, salmon, tailor and bonito only to have a kingfish engulf the blade and take off at a hundred miles an hour in the other direction. This usually lasts for only a few seconds before the blade parts company and the kingfish gets away.

If you are going to target kingfish with blades you should upsize your blade, upgrade your spit rings, trebles, leader breaking strain and make sure that your knots are perfect.

Both the above outfits have braid as the mainline, because of its very low

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If you don’t have a boat or you want to kick-start your kingy fishing, you could always book yourself or a few mates a charter.

A guide will show you the

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tricks and techniques on how to get your own kingfish. I have been out with a few and I can recommend Dan Selby from Sydney Sports Fishing, Grant Hilder from Fishabout Tours and Scotty Lyons from Southern Fishing Tours. On that trip you may not always get the fish of a lifetime, but who cares? A kingfish of any size is so much fun!

So there’s an insight into some options for targeting kingfish. It’s now up to you to get out there and try out these techniques so that you too can get your arms stretched by one of the most powerful fish in the water.

Tuck into transition time ILLAWARRA

Greg Clarke clarkey1@westnet.com.au

March is without a doubt the best month of the year; with the transition between summer and autumn, the water is warm and the weather is calm. The addition of the northeasters and the winter westerlies means you get more quality time on the water to chase just about anything you want.

the structure on the falling tide. Areas including the break walls at Port Kembla, other accessible spots in the harbour and the bridge pylons of Lake Illawarra and Minnamurra are too good to pass up.

The rainbow runners, amberjacks, pearl perch, the odd sweetlip and various trevally species are flooding the reefs in good numbers.

All the local fish are on the chew as well, with plenty of quality snapper caught in around 30m of water

Cobia are always a chance to be in the mix if you are chasing kings at this time of year.

So let’s start with the exotics! The hot water has been around for some time, and with it came those northern tropical critters that we see around this time every year. Spotted mackerel seem to be almost regulars this month, although pinning them down to a particular spot is the hard part, as they can show up over just about any reef.

The trick is, if you get your pilchard or fillet bait bitten off, put on a short trace of very light 10-15kg single strand wire. The same goes with live baits when chasing kingfish, as it isn’t always a shark that grabs your slimy.

You never know, there may even be a stray narrowbarred around as well.

Cobia are another regular visitor to the region during the early autumn months and are normally captured on live baits meant for kingfish.

Sometimes they show up in the snapper berley, along with their mates. No wire is needed for cobia as they have sandpaper teeth.

Sailfish and wahoo are always a chance this month, caught mainly on small skirts on the troll or live baits.

Mangrove jack are always a chance, caught on live prawn drifted close to

on bait and artificial lures.

Samsonfish and teraglin up to 5kg have been mixed in with the snapper, so you really don’t know what you may hook next.

The bottom bouncers are getting heaps of good flathead over the sand, with most fish averaging between 40-60cm, which is a pretty good run of fish.

There are also plenty of mowies, pigfish, sweep, leatherjackets and a few large silver trevally on the reef edges and gravel patches.

Offshore anything can happen this month and it is not out of the question to pick up the grand slam on marlin, with black, blue and striped all present and possible on the one day. If you hit a purple patch throw in for a wahoo, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, spearfish and mahimahi.

There are plenty of FADs around, and they have mahimahi ranging from live bait size to 15kg. The majority of the time it all depends on the FAD, the current and the day – but there are plenty around.

For marlin, there are still a few hanging around the inshore reefs but they are never as reliable as during February. However, they are

still worth a try on your way out to the deeper water of the shelf, where the blue and striped are the most common.

As always, keep those lures of all sizes in the water as the other by-catch predators, such as tuna and sails, are likely to turn up anywhere.

Reading the ocean always helps with birds the most common giveaway that there is something below the surface.

It may only be a bait school, but with bait comes the bigger predators.

Watching the sounder also helps to locate the bait and working the area the bait is holding is the key to catching fish. In closer there are plenty of kingfish in all the regular spots.

With all the rats that were around during the Christmas period now getting bigger and fatter; most of the fish are legal with plenty in the 10kg+ bracket.

Downriggers with live baits are the most effective, with squid as the best live bait, although I never use squid, as I catch more than enough on live slimies and I like eating squid more than I like eating kingfish!

Mixed in with the kings and slashing the surface are plenty of bonito, and they are getting bigger as the weeks go on. They give your live baits some trouble and sometimes even get hooked, but most fall to lures or pilchards. There have also been some solid salmon by-catches over the last month.

This is the month when the warm water visitors are most common, like this spotty mackerel. bonito, mac tuna, salmon and mackerel. I surely do hope that Fisheries are watching, as it does arise some concerns among the ones who do the right thing, ultimately becoming heated at times. Also remember to clean up your mess and leave the place as you found it.

There is still a chance of a marlin from the stones, but the odds are becoming harder. But as one species fades another takes its place, with longtails now firmly on the cards and will be for the next few months. They move through in schools quickly, so if you don’t have a live bait or lure in the water you will miss out.

Fish between 18-22kg are the average for this neck of the woods and that first run of longtail is a scorcher.

In the mean time you should be kept busy with, kingfish, bonito, some solid mac tuna, salmon and tailor

salmon and tailor. Don’t forget mulloway in the evenings, with the bigger tides on dark making for the best time. Any beach with a good gutter is worth a look.

There are good numbers of schoolies to keep things interesting. As always during March, sharks are a big problem for mulloway chasers, so take those extra traces and hooks to cover those inevitable bite-offs.

The estuaries are filled with plenty of flathead in both the lake and Minnamurra, and they are grabbing, lures, poddies and prawns. Flathead are spread pretty much everywhere at the moment, with any drop-off always worth a go.

Whiting are all over the flats, with now being a perfect time to try poppers, as there is way less traffic this month and the fish are bigger. Although if you want a feed, use worms or

nippers. Bream are in the deeper holes and in most of the tributaries with live prawns the go to bait. You could chase them with lures and get a few strikes per trip or use the live prawns and get smashed pretty much every cast.

Plenty of big mullet are hanging around in the creeks, and they are great for bait or grilling on the open fire. The lake is also producing more than a few sizable chopper tailor in the lake as well.

On a sad note; the raping of the cockle beds over the Christmas period in the lake is still going on.

The stink it has caused from the locals and in the media is warranted, but not a lot is being done. As mooted, a full closure on taking of cockles from the lake needs to be implemented before they are completely decimated.

The deeper rock ledges will have longtails passing through all month.

Schools of pelagics have been on the surface just off the headlands slashing into the bait, with kings, trevally, mac tuna, frigate mackerel, tailor and some of the northern species mixed in with them as well.

On the rocks it is becoming very busy, with most of the deeper headlands – particularly Bass Point and Hill 60 – getting very crowded with out western Sydney friends blitzing the small pelagics. Please take only what is needed and not wheelbarrows full of

– it really is great to fish the stones this time of year.

In the washes there are some quality drummer, trevally, bream and a few snapper for the lucky anglers. The harbours and jetties will be packed with anglers casting very small lures at the schools of frigate mackerel zooming in and out chasing baitfish.

On the beaches it is more of the same with really big, fat whiting chewing on beachworms. Along with whiting, there are plenty of dart, bream, flathead,

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Smaller fish eventually turn into bigger fish!

NAROOMA

Stuart Hindson

The offshore action off Narooma is excellent at the minute, with a wide range of game species on offer. With the water hovering around the 24°C mark, expect this action to continue and only get better as the weeks go by.

to 100kg, but there has still been a few solid blacks up to 130-140kg also caught.

Bait concentrations from the 70-fathom line are prolific, especially down deep with slimy mackerel schools blacking out sounders at times. Striped tuna schools are also abundant on the surface, so slow trolling a live bridled stripey may produce a

territory with larger trolled skirted lures to 16” long and 80lb outfits the norm.

Sportfishers after smaller fry will find yellowfin tuna to 20kg, albacore to 10kg, plus mahimahi to 20kg as well. It’s good to see these fast growing fish in numbers, with the traps a good place to target them.

Closer to shore there has been kingfish on Moruya

caught and in numbers. The bottom end of Montague has been the pick of the reefs. A lot of gummy sharks have been caught by the flathead fishos, good to see them around and they are a great by-catch. For the flatties try 35-40m straight off Kianga – it’s been excellent of late.

Beaches have been a little quiet for salmon and tailor, but the whiting and bream have made up for it.

Live beachworms and pipis are doing the damage, and light lines are required for constant results. A little bit of berley won’t hurt here – crushed pipi shells is a favourite of mine mixed with a little tuna oil.

I have heard a rumour or two that some good-sized

best time to target the above species. Fresh tuna fillets, prawns and cabbage for the blackfish are the preferred baits.

The golf course rocks should be holding some nice kingies, with live yellowtail or ganged pillies doing the trick.

There has been some good catches of bonito off these same rocks, spinning with 40-50g slices has been getting the desired results.

Bream, blackfish are still being caught in the washes, with cunjevoi and cooked prawns as the dynamite baits to use.

In the estuaries, the Tuross Lake system and Wagonga Inlet are in full swing with flathead,

weed banks, rocky points, extensive sand flats, the list just goes on. Using a mixture of smaller walk baits and poppers will do the trick. If the wind is up, all the better, you should catch plenty more when it is.

This type of fishing is very visual and great fun.

A good rule when working both these types of lures is to not stop moving when targeting whiting. When bream fishing long pauses may be needed in between walking the lure, these pauses can sometimes be the catalyst to tempting them to bite properly.

If lures isn’t your go, them squirtworms and nippers will work. Fish them on light leaders with small

The upper reaches of Wagonga Inlet around the oyster racks is a great place to target bream on surface walkers.

Marlin is the word and game anglers wishing to target them are in for a field day. Over the last few weeks I have heard of at least 20+ fish caught, with numerous others winning their freedom. Most fish have been striped marlin up

strike. A lot of the action has been on the shelf, with the Tuross canyons being consistent of late. If the weather is kind and you’re confident enough to travel to the second drop-off, it too may be worth a look.

This area is big blue marlin

and Potato Point reefs, although they have been a little sporadic. It really depends on tidal and current movements as to when they feed. But when they do play the game, jigs and live bait have worked well.

At Montague Island, kingfish have also played the game with fish to 10kg succumbing to live baits and jigs. The kings have been slow this season but with the water now warming up expect the action to be more consistent. The northern end of the island is a good starting point to target the kingies.

Inshore the bottom bashers have been having a field day with, snapper, mowies, and flatties being

Only a pup, but there are still plenty of mulloway in the Tuross system. mulloway are being caught up the coast around Brou Beach, so a couple of nights on the beach with the big gear might be worth a go.

The Narooma breakwall has been fishing consistent for bream, smaller snapper and blackfish. Fishing the ebb or flood tide on the inside of the northern breakwall has been the

mulloway, whiting, bream, blackfish and flounder all there for the taking. Now that the boat traffic has slowed down somewhat, expect it to only get better.

This month will see the surface action really pick up for bream and whiting, especially in Tuross. This magic piece of water has all the attributes with shallow

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Cracking into kings MERIMBULA

Stuart Hindson

The last month around the Merimbula region has seen some exceptional fishing, with offshore anglers having a ball on the pelagic species.

Marlin is the word out wide, with several crews in the week getting three or more beaks in a day, mostly stripes around the 80-90kg mark, all tagged and released.

These fish have responded to a variety of techniques, with slow trolling live mackerel, skip baits, skirted pushers and switch-baiting all producing the goods at various times.

You’re also a chance at finding a bait ball and pitching live baits into a pack.

This does happen at times,

hooks and live baits under a bobby cork or balloon is your best way to tempt a kingfish, bonito and big salmon from that ledge.

The bigger wharfs like Tathra and Merimbula seem to be fishing better, with Merimbula producing excellent results. I know of five kings caught there lately, with the best at 12kg, which is not massive, but still a great capture from land. Quite often the kings are following lures in but not eating them, and live bait has definitely been the better option.

What’s good to see is plenty of frigate mackerel in close, and these little speedsters are great fun on light tackle and ideal live baits for kings and tuna.

I wouldn’t be surprised

Closer to town, Tura Main is the pick at the moment, with the evening flooding tides the go, especially for a shark or mulloway. Again, salmon have been actively chasing metal shiners in the 40g size.

In the estuaries there’s still a few stray kingfish in the main lake at Merimbula.

They’re not huge, mostly around the 65cm mark, but still fun when your targeting flatties. The main basin has still been good for flatties, with the latest local competition in early February seeing the best caught at 83cm, which a solid model, with plenty of fish in the 60-70cm category.

There’s still plenty of trevally and tailor in the main basin, with the shallow margins producing whiting and bream on surface walkers.

CREATE YOUR ADVENTURES

485 SUNRUNNER This is 42cm of solid whiting caught on a surface walker. This type of fishing makes for plenty of excitement in the estuaries. and can truly be very exciting if it happens to you.

It’s just not marlin that are around, there’s plenty of mahimahi getting caught, with some big bulls among them around 18-20kg.

These fine sportfish can be in big numbers around floating debris or artificial FADs and will readily take live baits, trolled skirts or bibbed minnows, plus whole pilchards and occasionally metal jigs.

There’s still been a few smaller yellowfin about the shelf caught while trolling skirts intended for marlin, but these fin have been in the 25-28kg range.

Closer to shore the kingfish have still been tough, but they are there and in good numbers and size. If you persist you could be rewarded, it’s just a matter of putting the time in and hopefully you’re in luck. I’d be concentrating around the points like Tura Head, Long and Short Point, plus Haycock further south of Pambula. They can turn up anywhere, but I believe live squid will be your best bet. Try slow trolling one on a down rigger, and that might just do the trick on big kingfish.

Off the stones, Tura Head has been fishing okay. Some days it fires and others it’s not so great. Again, being there for periods of time will see you get results, and casting a mixture of 40-60g metals, whole pilchards on ganged

to see a few more northern blufin tuna encounters over coming weeks, with Tura Head the best ledge to fish.

I know of one solid fish lost and several more missed opportunities over recent days up at Tathra Head. If they’re up there they should pass on by down here too, and with that water a balmy 23ºC in close, it’s a possibility.

The beaches have been fishing well without being red-hot, but Haycock Beach south of Pambula has been pretty good for whiting.

There’s a great little gutter running close to shore that has seen plenty of whiting caught on both beach worms and pipis. You can expect a few bream and salmon as well.

Over at Pambula Lake, it’s been better with the channels from shark hole and down being great for flatties and trevally. With the monstrous tides we have had lately, fishing the last hour of the draining tide and the first hour of the flood has seen anglers getting better results.

A mixture of soft plastics and bait has worked – it really just depends on what technique you want to use.

If you’re after a few squid then you’re in luck, with the main wharf inside Merimbula Bay being great at the moment. Darker jigs in the 3.0 size seem to be best, with late afternoons into the evenings a top time to target them.

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Aussie Boat Sales NSW 27 Beach Road Batemans Bay NSW 2536 Phone 0433 531 226 aussieboatsales@gmail.com This beast of a 1.3m king was caught on a live squid fished down deep. This is a cracking size for the area just off Merimbula’s Aquarium jetty.

MARCH 2019

51

Chance to chase lots of species BERMAGUI

Darren Redman djsxstreamfishing@bigpond.com

Yes it is that time of year where all the moons align to provide an array of different fish species to chase in many varied locations. This definitely has to be my favourite month of the year, with weather conditions generally calm, allowing anglers to fish their preferred methods for their favourite species.

Out at sea it is the best

fishing you could expect to experience. For the inshore anglers, there is plenty to be found. For those into sport fishing, species like kingfish, bonito, striped tuna, frigate mackerel, salmon and even the occasional small black marlin are patrolling the coast line or Montague Island in search of the many baitfish that are abundant in our area.

Small bait like pilchards, yakka or white bait, will move through the water columns, providing bottom or reef fish with an opportunity to also feast upon them.

Still, sunny mornings are a great time to get into some luderick on the Bermagui River.

Fish like tiger and sand flathead are following this bait, and allowing anglers plenty of opportunity to catch a feed. While reef species like snapper, morwong, kingies, perch or pigfish may also seek out this bait supply.

Out wider on the Twelve Mile Reef, expect more of the same action, only with the fish being of larger size, as they come from the deeper water.

Now is also prime time for marlin out to and beyond the continental shelf. Bait schools like slimy mackerel, cowanyoung and red bait are their main attraction, especially for the striped and black marlin. While the small pelagics like frigate mackerel, stripies and juvenile yellowfin are in the area, they have been a regular addition on small lures this season, and will also attract those big blue marlin that are lurking wider out over the shelf. If it is a big blue you desire, try whacking out a spread of large lures where you can cover the water, and push out to areas like the Sea Mount east of Montague.

For the striped and black marlin, and even

some blues, try hugging the edge of the shelf, working from the Twelve Mile Reef through to Tuross Canyons until you discover where the bait is concentrated, then work the area over. Expect while out there in pursuit of marlin to encounter some other predators like spearfish, yellowfin tuna and mahimahi that may be hanging around the buoys attached to the fish traps just inside the shelf. There’s also plenty of sharks out there. If you are live baiting for marlin, sharks like makos, whalers, hammerheads and sometimes tigers may also take a liking to your bait just to provide some variety to your day.

In the estuaries, the last of the prawns are making their way to the ocean, and this means the fish are feasting on them in order to build condition for the cooler months ahead. This may also be the last chance for humans to acquire some of this succulent seafood before it disappears for the season.

Prawn style lures are working well on flathead in Wallaga Lake and the

Snapper are a favourite any time, and they are now just starting to show in numbers.

Bermagui River. If you find conditions a bit windy, try drifting the lakes just twitching them along the bottom, as it has proven very successful this season. Other species like whiting, bream, luderick, mullet or trevally will move over the flats with the incoming tide, providing some excellent shallow water angling. A well-placed nipper, prawn or squirt worm is all that is required to gain a result. Often the easiest way to find fish in this area is to simply move about in your boat, kayak or wading where you actually sight the fish, then go back and have some fun.

This is also one of the best times of year on the beaches, as it is not too cold and allows anglers to fish both night or day. Of a night, expect all types of surprises in the form of some reasonablesized sharks like whalers or gummies, while mixing with them are the occasional mullowayor tailor. During the day, the shallower gutters are producing lots of whiting on worms, with the occasional bream or mullet adding to the bag while the deep gutters on the incoming tide are producing pack attacks from the local salmon schools and providing some frantic fishing for the anglers.

FISHING NEWS

Sydney hooks its first SMART drumlines Sydney’s first SMART drumlines are now in the water from Barrenjoey to Newport and from Dee Why to Manly beaches, as part of a trial to determine what role SMART drumlines can play in reducing the risk of shark attacks at Sydney beaches.

From 10 February to 12 May 2019, 20 SMART drumlines will be trialled at Palm, Whale, Avalon,

Bilgola, Newport, Manly, Queenscliff, Freshwater, Curl Curl and Dee Why beaches near existing shark nets.

Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair said this technology has achieved positive results on both the North and South Coast and will now be tested at some of the state’s most popular beaches.

“We’re leading the world in trials of this technology, but in order to continue to learn

more about shark movements and the effectiveness of this technology we need to be testing it at some of our busiest beaches,” Mr Blair said. “While we are confident in this new technology, we have no intention of removing any shark nets from Sydney, Wollongong or Newcastle beaches. This measure is to complement nets so that we’re doing everything we can to protect beachgoers.

Satellite tags allow researchers to monitor the movement of sharks. Photo courtesy of NSW DPI.

The drumlines consist of two buoys, a satellite-linked communications unit and a hook baited with a whole mullet. Photo courtesy of NSW DPI. “We’ll run this trial, collect the data, speak to the community and assess what other areas we could trial SMART drumlines in the future.”

SMART drumlines allow contractors to humanely and safely catch sharks, tag them and then relocate them away from swimmers and surfers before releasing them. When a tagged shark is detected, the community is instantly alerted through the SharkSmart App and Twitter feeds. The drumlines will

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be set 500m offshore every morning (weather permitting) and collected at the end of each day. They consist of two buoys and a satellite-linked communications unit, which is attached to a hook baited with a single mullet.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said it was fantastic to see new and emerging technologies for minimising the risk of shark attacks being trialled at Sydney’s premier beaches.

“Our communities, tourists and marine

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MARCH 2019

environment will be better off thanks to the knowledge generated from this trial,” Mr Griffin said. “This trial will provide the first opportunity to investigate how the technology can operate in our own backyard, and the results will inform future shark management measures on the Northern Beaches.”

The NSW Government’s shark tagging program is currently tracking 329 white sharks, 70 bull sharks and 47 tiger sharks. - DPI

No better time to fish TATHRA

Darren Redman djsxstreamfishing@bigpond.com

For those who wish to visit the Tathra area, there is no better time than March!

Whether you’re a keen offshore angler wanting to find a large billfish, chase pelagics like kingfish with lighter sports fishing tackle, fill the fridge with some tasty reef fish, feel sand between your toes as

Soft plastics are effective on them and may offer you the opportunity to find some of the other species willing to eat a lure, like flathead or estuary perch.

For a bigger visual thrill there is nothing quite like watching a bream sneaking up behind and engulfing a hardbodied lure. You can even travel upstream to the brackish freshwater where you will find plenty of bream and maybe some bass as well.

kingfish, salmon and frigate mackerel. The frigates make excellent live baits, and you can float them out from the wharf or rocks where a large kingy may be lurking.

There is also a very real possibility of a small black marlin cruising the area.

There are plenty of fun fish to be caught as well, like silver trevally, yakkas, mackerel and garfish.

For billfish, you will have to go offshore, with the best area out towards

580

SPECIFICATIONS

There are some thumping bream in the Tathra area, especially in the Bega River. you walk a beach, or stare through the glassy waters of an estuary in anticipation of a large flatty about to engulf a lure, it is all there on offer!

Starting with the estuaries, the Bega River is at your doorstep when you are in Tathra, with excellent boat ramp facilities. The sad part at the moment is that the river is closed to the ocean, which is not allowing any fresh stocks of fish to enter.

However, there are plenty of fish throughout the system, allowing many different angling opportunities.

The clear, still water in the river allows anglers to sight cast to the many black and yellowfin bream that call these waters home.

You may even like to visit some of the smaller estuaries within the area like Wapengo Lake or Nelsons Lagoon, as these systems are always open to the ocean and are well worth a look.

Wandering the beaches with a handful of metal lures is often all you need to spin up a bag of salmon, which are exceptional fun on light gear. Using baits like beach worms, nippers or pipis will also find you connected to some lovely bream, whiting or mullet, with the north end of Tathra beach being a prime area.

The wharf and adjacent rocky headland is producing some small pelagic action in the form of bonito,

the continental shelf. Here vast bait schools of slimy mackerel will attract the marlin. Once you locate this bait, trolling lures may bring a hook up, however for the best results, try trolling teasers and switch bait the marlin. It is visually exciting and more productive.

If these fish aren’t on the chew, you can always revert back to a little bottom bashing over the reef or sand for some of those tasty bottom dwellers. Snapper, morwong and various perches abound, and you can also find my favourite, the delicious eastern blue spot flathead, often referred to as sandies. They go great in a crispy beer batter!

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There are plenty of tasty fish to be taken offshore from Tathra.

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For more information visit www.stessl.com.au MARCH 2019

53

Now is the best time of year NOWRA

Johnny Nolan straydog1974@gmail.com

We’ve made it through one of the hottest summers in a long time!

It was blinking hot! But now that’s passed, it’s

time for the next three months, which for me are the best the year has to offer. I just love getting up early on those autumn mornings and hitting the water knowing that you’re not going to get fried by the scorching sun later in the day.

The light westerly breeze that is sometimes blowing just before sunrise often dissipates as the sun starts to rise, leaving you left with a picturesque glassed out mill pond where the only ripples on the water are that of another boat or from where your lure or bait

Dane Corbin, 10yo, looking pretty pleased after clocking up another mulloway to his name from a local South Coast system.

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MARCH 2019

has landed on the water’s surface. Ah yes – cool, calm and trafficless waterways; got to love autumn!

Just because the weather has cooled a little doesn’t mean the fishing has. There are still a few marlin to be caught out on the blue.

Adding to the mixed bag are plenty of reds, mulloway and bass – which are all prominent in all of our systems. The bass are still having a good go smashing lures from the surface!

There is pretty much something for everyone!

If you are into the bluewater scene you will be pleased to know there are still a few stick faces around. Finding where the bait is holding and working a pattern with either lures or live baits should see the best results. Often if you hook a fish and try and fight it away from the main concentration of fish you can usually go back and have another go.

If you talk to a lot of game fishers you’ll find that a tide change is often their favourite time, being the most successful for marlin fishing. For this reason you should try to plan your trip out around this to maximise your chances.

Apart from marlin, some big mahimahi have also been caught on the shelf. Any sort of structure, whether it be a floating log, a fish trap buoy, an old shipping container, a bucket or even a plastic bag fallen

Mark Corbin with a solid basin mulloway. Mark is a keen mulloway fisherman and is part of the local tagging program for this magnificent species. plan my trips around a low tide change when snapper fishing, especially in JB! As the tide rises you can give the snapper a rest and go catch yourself a feed of calamari, which are plentiful throughout the bay.

Pretty much every report I have written in the past six months or so has had something on

Nic Martyn with a lovely Jervis Bay snapper caught on his whiting gear on a soft plastic. overboard and floating, will create some sort of structure for the mahimahi. They love hanging under any sort of structure, and usually in good numbers.

In Jervis Bay there have been some quality reds around the shallower reefs for the soft plastic fishos.

Just like the marlin, the reds too love feeding on the tide change and I always try and

mulloway in it and this one is no different. We have an amazing mulloway fishery in our local area, with all three of the major systems producing some quality fish. In recent times St Georges Basin has taken a lot of pressure off the Shoalhaven River system, with some spectacular mulloway catches, mainly by the lure anglers.

A lot of mulloway are being released and some are being tagged by members of a local tagging program.

There is something special about these silver slabs in the estuary.

Due to the lack of tidal flow and structure throughout the basin to concentrate, it’s more a matter of finding the bait schools with fish feeding on them – with the technology of fish finders these days that isn’t too hard. The stealthy electric motor approach or a downwind drift casting your lure ahead of yourself is the best method for sneaking up on a feeding mulloway.

It’s been a pretty bumper bass bite this season, but now is the time to really have a go before they start to go quiet with the winter migration downstream. The upper reaches of the Shoalhaven and its tributaries are still fishing well, with fish up around the 40cm mark still hitting the surface early and late in the day. Midday sessions usually involve either spinnerbaits or soft plastics rigged in a number of different ways.

In the local dams, vibes and blades are working well around midday, while the dawn and dusk sessions are the time to throw a surface lure. Even if you don’t hook the fish it’s the thought of the surface strike that gets the blood pumping with every keen bass angler.

Catch you all next month, be good and stay safe.

Healthy estuaries making for a cracking season BATEMANS BAY

Anthony Stokman

The Clyde River has been very healthy. Mid to late last year’s dry season made for a rain-filled end to the year, which resulted in new life in the estuaries.

The big female flatties threw off their winter cobwebs and decided to start showing a liking to the 5-7” plastics. There were some crackers getting hooked up, and quite regularly. There were a lot of fish going 50cm and up over the 90cm mark. The stories and photos

we some upstream pups getting caught and then after that rain, boom! It was on!

The mulloway were thick between Chinamans Bend to the marina and soon overshadowed the flatty bite.

Although there were some nice flatties being caught as by-catch pushing the metre mark.

It seemed the mulloway was spawning in a very concentrated area and they were all healthy fish.

Most fish being caught were 1-1.4m and weighing between 10-20kg. You can’t go wrong fishing the moons and the tides with

Tim with a nice first cast result.

Harry Rogan with a nice shallow water yak snapper. started to pour into the shop here at Compleat Angler and the flatty scene looked to be a better than usual coming into summer. That run looks to be continuing into March, but with sizes varying.

It wasn’t too long after the flathead woke up that we saw the mulloway come to life in the estuary. During the last few months there

fresh squid or live mullet.

In the end it seemed it was hard to go wrong, as the moons or tides didn’t matter and mulloway were getting caught most nights.

While all this madness had unfolded, we are now seeing the bream starting to slowly fire up and the estuary perch bite that strong. The whiting are making a small

appearance at some locations and kicking into gear for some super-sized, some real elbow slappers that are getting around.

In March the sharks will still be very present and lately a lot of fishos have been out chasing them from late in the arvo and into the night. Probably the most fished spot on the South Coast is our Moruya break wall and people are still discovering the place and finding it has plenty of sharks and the chance of a mulloway. The beaches up and down the coast are still good options for sharks and in the estuary from surfside to Maloneys there are plenty of metre bronzies. Most bronzies are in a habitat protection

zone where they are to be released, and you can only keep the gummy or school shark. This is a marine park rule not all are aware of.

The estuary should continue to fire on all cylinders coming into March with an amazing and red-hot spring build up…

Autumn has never looked so promising! Last year the mulloway bite ran from spring through to winter and after the recent spring summer run we expect the same this year with autumn usually peaking again.

Bream and flathead should be found easily enough, with some good whiting still getting around.

The estuary perch also don’t seem to be going anywhere except staying in the estuary.

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What is normally a summer hit didn’t reach the top five species list this season, and that’s bass.

There didn’t seem to be the cicadas like previous years and I think the drought has played its part. Anglers will still always have a crack and it’s still worth it when you are surrounded by a beautiful environment and it’s even better when you do find one or two on the bite.

Back out to sea we have seen some good sessions on snapper, but you have to move around to find them and they can be in any depth at this time of the year.

From here on there comes some more consistency with them. The kingfish are slowly starting to make an appearance around our parts, whereas Montague Island is still waiting for them to turn on.

There are some 8-10kg fish getting caught around Islands and headlands around Batemans, but there are still plenty of rats you have to get through first.

We have had some surprise visits over the season and every year there seems

to be more. Cobia isn’t uncommon for this area at this time of the year, but it is always a surprise catching one and even more so up river as Mark Hood and the boys found out. These fish are known to swim and explore areas like this.

Other surprise catches include a few early wahoo and early longtail tuna, which we are normally used to seeing during April.

Mahimahi is a welcomed summer fish and they have been in good numbers and at good sizes. There should still be plenty throughout March at the FADs and fish trap buoys. My mate got a couple of good ones the other day off a floating pizza box. The marlin bite will continue throughout March and it may see our best days of the season if the weather plays the game.

• Come into Compleat Angler Batemans Bay and stock up on JB Lures, Jet Lures, Neo fluorocarbon, jap snaps, wax thread, needles, tag poles and tag flags. We have the lot to ensure you’ll have the best on the water this autumn.

Liam Gray getting on top of them.

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Warm water keeps fish MALLACOOTA/EDEN

Kevin Gleed captainkev@wildernessfishingtours.com

With the Far South Coast and Mallacoota region still nice and warm, there’s been plenty of fishing in the lakes, ocean and off the beaches going on, with good catches to report.

The weather has been great, with the usual northeasterly wind that howls at this time of year not being such a bother.

Fishing the beaches has been good, with a variety of species being caught.

Salmon are about, but not in big numbers, and the warmer water temperatures see fewer fish about, with numbers appearing when the water temperature drops.

Sand whiting, yellowfin bream and tailor have been about in good numbers, with fresh baits of worms and prawns a good choice. There are good gutters on all the local beaches, with the rising tide around dawn and dusk a good time to be fishing.

Anglers heading offshore have been catching plenty of fish with great conditions (no wind and slight seas), allowing boats to head out and chase a feed at any time, with only the odd day when the wind chases them off the water.

Sand flathead are being caught in good numbers, with some big tiger flathead coming in out wide. The challenge is finding the fish.

Some boats are catching plenty of fish, while others are struggling.

Some big gummy sharks are being caught, with the bigger models coming out wide in 60m of water.

Some good squid have been caught by anglers quick enough to throw out a squid jig when they have spotted them following up a retrieved bait.

For a brief period, some

good action was had on kingfish, however the fish haven’t been easy to catch.

There’s no doubt that they are still about, but finding them and getting them to bite has been the challenge.

Good numbers of both black and yellowfin bream are being caught, with the fish taking both bait and lures. The fish are on the move and can be here one minute and gone the next.

Max Oehlmann is very happy with an 82cm flathead he caught on a blade.

At present the game fishing action has been to the north of Eden, but the coming month should see striped marlin and striped tuna catches coming from off Eden and Mallacoota.

The estuaries have been fishing well, with plenty of flathead being caught, and a variety of lures have been catching fish. Soft plastics and blades were working well on a recent charter, with one 82cm flathead caught.

This fish took a blade and was a PB for Max Oehlmann.

The entrance area of the tidal estuaries has seen some good sand whiting taken, with bait fishing the way to get numbers of fish.

The bottom lake in Mallacoota has seen a number of good-sized pinkie snapper caught, and with the lake still closed to the ocean, they will only keep getting bigger.

After the recent rains there is still a little flow in all the local rivers, but a good flush is needed to really liven things up as we head further into autumn.

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Good numbers of black bream have been caught over the past month.

MARCH 2019

57

Cooking

Pan-fried salmon with a side of pepperonata SYDNEY

Andrew Humphries

For this recipe I was hoping to use freshly caught kingfish but I had no luck catching a legal one, and no luck at the local fish markets, so I used salmon instead. The recipe works equally well with either fish.

Start by halving and deseeding the capsicum, and slice lengthways into strips about 0.5cm thick. Slice the red onion as finely as

1

3

5 58

MARCH 2019

possible, and then chop the garlic and tomatoes, keeping everything separate.

Next, heat the oil in a frypan or saucepan set to a medium heat. Add the onions and sweat for 3-4 minutes.

Add in the capsicums and garlic, stirring occasionally, and cook for a further 10 minutes or until the capsicums are soft.

For the pepperonata add the tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and olives, cooking for a further 6-8 minutes.

Stir in the oregano and then taste to check the level of

seasoning. If needed, you can add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity from the vinegar.

Heat a saucepan over medium heat with a little oil. Season the salmon fillets on both the skin side and flesh side, and place them in pan skin side down for about 4 minutes, checking occasionally. Turn the salmon over and cook for a further 5 minutes, depending on how thick the fish is.

Once the fish is cooked to your liking, serve with the pepperonata on the side.

This recipe is for salmon, but kingfish would work just as well.

After the onions have sweated for 3-4 minutes you can add the capsicums and garlic.

Depending on the thickness of the salmon, you should cook it for around 4 minutes skin side down, and then around 5 minutes on the other side.

INGREDIENTS 2pc 150g salmon or yellowtail kingfish fillet 1 red onion 1 red capsicum 1 green capsicum 1 yellow capsicum 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tomatoes, roughly diced 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 60g black olives 10g fresh oregano, chopped 2 tbsp olive oil

2

4

6

The capsicum sliced and ready to go. You need to keep the capsicum, onions and tomatoes all separate, as they will be cooked at different times.

All the ingredients of the pepperonata are blending – capsicums, onion, tomatoes, olives, garlic, oregano and balsamic vinegar.

Perfectly cooked salmon and pepperonata.

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR 2019

MARCH

APRIL

2-3 Mar

ABT BASS Round 1 Clarence River

abt.org.au

2-3 Mar

Hobie Kayak Bream Series Round 2 Mallacoota

hobiefishing.com.au

9 Mar

ABT BASS Electric Round 1 Richmond River

abt.org.au

10 Mar

East Coast Bream Series Round 1 Sussex Inlet

www.wsbb.com.au or 0403 085 696

19-21 Mar

ABT BREAM Australian Open Sydney

abt.org.au

23-24 Mar

ABT BREAM Round 3 Botany Bay

abt.org.au

30-31 Mar

Hobie Kayak Bream Series Round 3 Sydney

hobiefishing.com.au

6-7 Apr

Hobie Kayak Bream Series Round 4 Blackwood River

hobiefishing.com.au

13-14 Apr

ABT BASS Electric Round 2 Toonumbar Dam

abt.org.au

13-14 Apr

Family Bassin Round 2 Glenbawn Dam

Wayne Tiggermann 0412 634 288 or sanja@hwy.com.au

Add your tournament or competition to this list by emailing jthomas@fishingmonthly.com.au or calling 07 3387 0800 in office hours.

Just supply a date, venue, tournament name and a telephone number and contact name.

STACER OCEAN RANGER CENTRE CAB

The best of both worlds with protection from the elements and 360 degrees of fishability.

The Ocean Ranger Centre Cab is a sturdy plate boat that gives fishos unobstructed fishing off all angles, dry storage and shelter from the sun or rain.

360 Degrees of Plate Boat Fishing.

Contact your local dealer for more information.

CENTRAL COAST

COFFS HARBOUR

DUBBO

GRAFTON

425 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty Ph (02) 4333 3444 stacerboats1@aol.com

30 Industrial Drive, Coffs Harbour Ph (02) 6651 7810 shop@thwaitesmarine.com.au

36 Bourke Street, Dubbo Ph (02) 6882 2853 bbeandel@bigpond.net.au

160 North St, Grafton Ph (02) 6643 1199 sales@discomarine.com.au

IN TUNE MARINE

www.intunemarine.com.au

THWAITES MARINE

www.thwaitesmarine.com.au

DUBBO MARINE

www.dubbomarine.com.au

DISCO MARINE

www.discomarine.com.au

LAVINGTON

MID NORTH COAST

SYDNEY SOUTH

SYDNEY WEST

474 Wagga Road, Lavington Ph (02) 6040 9999 bordermarine@westnet.com.au

537 Ocean Dr, North Haven Ph (02) 6559 9344 enquiries@camdenhavenmarine.com.au

1-13 Mangrove Lne, Taren Point Ph (02) 9524 0044 sales@marinabayside.com.au

1 Railway Rd North, Mulgrave Ph (02) 4577 6699 sales@blakesmarine.com.au

BORDER MARINE

www.bordermarinecentre.com.au

CAMDEN HAVEN MARINE

www.camdenhavenmarine.com.au

MARINA BAYSIDE

www.marinabayside.com.au

BLAKES MARINE

www.blakesmarine.com.au MARCH 2019

59

Pirtek Fishing Challenge

Ready to enter the world’s biggest fishing comp?

Australians across all states and territories are being encouraged to prepare their fishing gear for the 2019 Pirtek Fishing Challenge.

Neurosciences Research Unit.

The challenge is an online national fishing competition open to all ages and experience levels. All competitors receive

The list of 25 target species will be released to competitors on Sunday, 24 February to allow all anglers time to plan their fishing trips.

pack. Spotters sunglasses are also supplying their awesome polarized eyewear.

One of the big attractions of the challenge is the $90,000 in cash supplied by Pirtek Fluid Systems and divided across the 25-target fish nationally. This is awarded via a ‘mystery length’ a secret measurement determined by the event organizers.

Michael Guest, Event Director, says the challenge is designed to allow people

of all ages and experiences to get involved and enjoy a day outdoors.

“It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced angler or picking up a rod for the first time, the Pirtek Fishing Challenge is all about getting together with your friends and family, having fun and supporting our charity partners,” he said.

“Prostate cancer continues to affect thousands of families each year, and sadly almost

every Australian knows someone who is affected by the disease.”

“The Pirtek team and I will continue to do all we can to give PCFA and The Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit the support they need.”

For more information and to register visit www. pirtekfishingchallenge.com. au. Registrations cost $25.00, plus postage and handling. – Pirtek Fishing Team

a limited-edition cap, brag mat and sticker, along with a redemption voucher for a bottle of Pirtek Protect, which is lanolin grease that has been designed specifically for the marine and fishing industry.

This year, the Challenge is offering a record $213,000 in cash and prizes. Just by entering, all registered participants will be in the running to win a boat, outboard and trailer package valued at over $29,000 courtesy of Stacer/Evinrude. Along with two $2600 Snap On Tool chests, $2000 worth of Berkley/ABU Garcia fishing tackle, a $2000 Lowrance Hook2 12 Sonar/GPS, $1700 BCF spending spree; eight Snap-On Tools 100-piece tool kit valued at $600 and a Valvoline $500 oils and lube

LEATHERJACKET

(ALL SPECIES EXCLUDING CHINAMEN AND UNICORN) Size Range: Up to 3kg, common under 1kg Tactics: Often considered to be an unwanted by-catch when bait fishing in estuaries and offshore, leatherjackets respond well to a variety of baits and lures. Keeping your hooks and lures fairly small would be advantageous if targeting jackets, however they can damage hooks with their teeth.

Rigs: A small running sinker or paternoster rig will suffice.

Bait: Small flesh baits will be sufficient offshore, while standard run-of-the-mill baits of yabbies and worms will work in the estuaries.

Lures: If using lures, small plastics with enough weight to get to the bottom should be all you need.

COASTAL

The Challenge is a major fundraising initiative that helps to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) and awareness of the disease.

More than 17,000 men are

Size Range: Up to 50cm, more common from 20-40cm.

Tactics: Whiting love clear and shallow water where they grub around for yabbies, worms and other tasty tidbits. By targeting these areas with your baits or lures, you’ll encounter plenty of whiting, as well as other interesting by-catch.

Rigs: A running sinker rig with a long leader, tiny long shank hook is enough to fool a whiting, even in shallow water. Light braided line around 4lb with a 2-4lb leader is an excellent balance for the anglers throwing lures at wily whiting.

Bait: Worms and yabbies (nippers) are two baits that are rarely met with failure.

Lures: Small hardbodies, plastics, and more recently, surface lures have all taken plenty of whiting in the last decade. Often, the bigger whiting will be the ones that take lures..

COASTAL

WHITING

YOUR CHALLENGE • Enter the challenge via the website and be sure to read the terms and conditions.

• After you have registered, a limited edition Fishing Challenge cap and Fishing Challenge brag mat will be posted to you.

diagnosed with prostate cancer in Australia every year.

Pirtek has been partners with Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia since 2009 to help raise vital funds for prostate cancer research, awareness initiatives and support programs by hosting Australia’s biggest single day fishing competition.

The challenge is also a major fundraising partner for the Peter Duncan

It can be redeemed at any one of the 98 Pirtek outlets around Australia. You can find these locations at www. pirtek.com.au.

This year’s challenge will take place on Sunday 17 March 2019 between the hours of 6.00am-6.00pm. Competitors need to fish for their chosen species, photograph their catch on the brag mat with their angler number and upload the photo to the website for judging.

• The list of target species will be available via the website www.pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au at 1200 hours AEDST on Sunday, 24 February 2019.

• On Saturday, 16 March 2019 (after 6:00pm) you will be sent via email a repeat list of the target species plus your angler number. You can also log on to the website to download this information.

• Fishing will commence at 6:00am and finish at 6:00pm on Sunday, 17 March 2019.

• All lines must be out of the water at 6:00pm on Sunday, 17 March 2019.

• When you catch your target species simply lay the live fish with the nose in line with the ‘0’ (zero) measurement on the Pirtek bragmat.

• Photograph the fish so the entire length can be seen in the photograph along with your angler number.

• Check out the Photographing Your Fish page for information on how to correctly photograph your catch.

60

MARCH 2019

• If you do not receive your brag mat before Sunday 17 March, you may measure and photograph your fish using last year’s brag mat, a fisheries measuring sticker, another competitors mat (with your Angler Number), or a generic brag mat (BCF sell them).

• If you are not happy with the photograph, simply take another one.

• Quickly release the fish and try to catch a bigger one.

• Only a fish caught by the registered angler can be entered.

• Any photograph that shows a fish not alive or damaged will not be accepted.

• Any photograph which has undergone digital manipulation, i.e., photoshop, will be disqualified.

• You can only upload one photograph per angler to the website. This needs to be your biggest fish.

• Follow the directions on the website to upload your photograph.

• The upload needs to be complete by 7:00am AEDT, Monday, 18 March 2019.

• Any photographs uploaded after this time will not be accepted.

• Remember to write your angler number clearly in the white box provided on the brag mat.

• If your photograph is damaged, blurry or the overall measurement of your fish is not clearly seen with your angler number the photograph will be disallowed.

• Check your photograph to ensure the whole fish is in the photograph and the nose end of the fish is in line with the ‘0’ (zero) measurement and the overall length along with the angler number is clearly visible.

• Check the website on Saturday, 23 March, 2019 to see if you’re a winner. The National Fishing Challenge committee’s decision will be final and no correspondence entered into.

COASTAL

Rigs: Running sinker rig and a paternoster rig are both good options with 20lb braided main line to 20lb leader. The same line weights can be used for lure fishing.

Rigs: 20-30lb should be your minimum line weights for both your mainline and leader.

Lures: Murray cod will eat a variety of surface lures, hardbodies, lipless crankbaits and spinnerbaits. As with bait, lures should be big and annoying to achieve the best results.

COASTAL

Size Range: Up to 110cm, common to 40cm.

Bait: Live baits of herring, mullet work well for larger tailor, but dead baits of pilchard, garfish also work well, particularly on the beaches an headlands.

Tactics: Redfin are a schooling fish, so finding schools of fish before deploying bait or lures is preferred. Redfin are very aggressive and will respond to a variety of presentations in the lakes and rivers where they have been introduced.

Lures: Anything suitable for bass or trout will certainly fool redfin. Small hardbodies, soft plastics, surface lures and even flies will readily take perch.

COASTAL

Size Range: Up to 1.1m, commonly caught 30-65cm.

Lures: Most lures work well on flathead, the trick is to have it in their face. Lures such as soft plastics, vibes, lipless crankbaits and hardbodied lure all take flathead, and they’ve been known to chase down swimbaits and surface lures as well.

Size Range: Up to 60cm, common from 20-40cm.

Bait: Any small invertebrates, such as worms, crustaceans and insect larvae make great redfin bait. Yabbies and shrimps are definitely standouts when searching for bigger perch.

FLATHEAD

Bait: Flathead will eat anything they can fit in their mouth, whether it’s live, dead, big or small.

REDFIN

Rigs: A small running sinker rig fished vertically from a boat on 6-10lb is sufficient for redfin anywhere.

Lures: Tailor are predatory and will chase down most offerings at speed. Topwaters, metals, hardbodies, and soft plastics will work well, however tailor will make short work of plastics with their razor sharp teeth.

Rigs: A running sinker rig with 6lb braid with a 15lb leader is sufficient for bait fishing. The same goes for lure fishing, but try to attach your lures with a loop knot where possible to maximize the action of the lure.

MURRAY COD Tactics: Murray cod are a structure-loving and territorial species. Therefore, lures or baits fished or cast around big snag complexes repetitively usually get a response eventually. During periods of low light, they will often leave their lairs in search of food.

TAILOR

Tactics: Flathead are classic ambush predators that use camouflage to their advantage, often burying themselves in sand or mud when awaiting their prey. Drop offs, weed edges, hard rock and mud edges are all great spots for flathead. Flathead have a preference for tidal movement, either running in or running out, and don’t feed as much when the water is slack.

Lures: Lures like Australian-made hardbodied lures, spinnerbaits and lipless crankbaits all do damage on yellowbelly.

Size Range: Up to 1.8m, common from 40-80cm.

Lures: Small hardbodied divers, smaller than your little finger, cast around rocky shores, mangroves or bridges and worked with a slow, steady retrieve are hard to beat. When fish go deeper, tiny soft plastics and blades with according jighead size is a sure-fire way to pin a bream. At times, they will also rise to small surface lures.

Rigs: Light braided line around 6-10lb with a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader from 12-20lb will suffice is fine for lure anglrs. Sometimes, tailor can bite through non-wire leaders. Running sinker rigs, paternoster rigs and ganged bait rigs all work for tailor, and some old school angler prefer the use of wire on their trace.

Bait: Baits of yabby, live shrimp, worms and even smelly dead baits are successful.

TROUT (BROWN & RAINBOW) Size Range: Up to 1m, common from 30-50cm.

Tactics: In dams and lakes trout can form huge schools in deep water, and this is when they can be caught trolling lures. Trout are an opportunistic predator in streams, meaning they will investigate anything that comes into their domain. At other times, trout can sometimes be very fussy, particularly when there is a specific hatch of insects or baitfish in the area. Drifting baits, or casting small lures and flies is a good tactic in rivers.

Bait: Baits of worms, crickets, grasshoppers, mudeyes and shrimps can all be successful at different times.

Lures: Winged lures trolled off a downrigger are fantastic for when trout are schooling deep. Hardbodies, small bladed spinners and soft plastics are great for trout in shallow water.

MURRAY/DARLING BASIN

Tactics: Lures and live baits are popular, and they also love to hunt down worms and grubs set on the bottom. Lures cast around fallen timber in rivers and standing timber in lakes are all successful, especially around first and last light, and the warmer periods of the year are generally preferred.

MURRAY/DARLING BASIN

Size Range: Up to 75cm, commonly caught at 25-50cm.

Bait: Because they are omnivorous almost anything found or bought should catch bream, including white bread, which is an under-used favourite.

Tactics: Tailor can be found in rivers and estuaries, coastal lakes and bays, but are at their biggest best in the surf and off oceanic rocks. Beach anglers often target tailor in and around the surf gutters, and those fishing rocky headlands can often expect a few tailor too. Tailor are migratory, and seldom spend long in any one area. Tailor will take live and dead baits, even quite large ones, and will readily chase down lures moved quickly through the water column.

Bait: Baits as varied as scrubworms, corn, bread, dough, shrimp and grubs are all attractive to carp and the use of berley will increase your success rate dramatically.

GOLDEN PERCH

Size Range: Up to 50cm, common from 25-35cm.

Rigs: Running sinker onto a #1 or 1/0 hook will work for the bait anglers. For the lure brigade, 2-6lb braided line connected to 6-10lb fluorocarbon or monofilament leader is ample.

Rigs: A medium running sinker rig, paternoster rig or float rig with 6-20lb braided line onto a 10-20lb leader. Anglers can obviously go lighter in clear water free of snags.

Lures: Carp will take lures, usually as by-catch. Fly anglers can target carp in shallow water by sight fishing with small nymphs.

BREAM (ALL SPECIES) Tactics: Bream are incredibly widespread and can be found in just about every saltwater river, creek and coastal lake in the state. Bream love structure – especially rock – and if you find rocks or other hard structure in the intertidal zone, you can be sure that bream hang around it at some time of the day. Bream will also aggregate around weed an flooded grass at times. Keep the gear light when bream fishing, as this will get you more bites. If you want to catch a bream on a lure, make sure that it’s small. They’ll eat nearly every bait you can find or buy, it just needs to be presented in a natural way.

Tactics: Smelly baits are very effective for carp. Carp will also get up into shallow water and mooch along the bottom looking for aquatic insects, and this is where fly anglers can have some fun, sometimes landing some huge specimens.

MURRAY/DARLING BASIN

Size Range: Up to 1m, but more commonly encountered at 30-60cm.

COASTAL

Size Range: Up to 65cm, common from 30-40cm.

Tactics: Bass in rivers love structure, but when they spawn in winter, they will school up in open water around the tidal reaches. Bass can be a little different in the dams. If there are bony bream or other schooling baitfish present, the bass will usually school up in deep water, chasing the smaller bony bream. If there is a lot of structure around the edges and the food source in predominately insects, small fish and shrimps, the bass will feed in shallow water. Fishing where the bass are with lures or bait that mimics what food source is available is the preferred approach.

Rigs: Light braided line around 4-6lb with a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader around 8-14lb is preferred for lure fishing. The same applies for bait fishing, with unweighted, weighted and floated rigs working, depending on how deep and where the fish are holding.

Bait: Grasshopper, cricket, worms, yabbies, and particularly live shrimp are successful.

Lures: Bass take a variety of lures from surface lures, diving lures, lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits, soft plastics, jigs and even flies. Match your lures to suit where and how the bass are feeding.

GREAT DIVIDING RANGE

CARP

BASS

MURRAY/DARLING BASIN

Pirtek Fishing Challenge

MARCH 2019

61

A new era for the Lion’s Greenback Competition Since 1981 the Greenback Tailor Fishing Competition has been a community focused event, helping to raise funds for local beneficiaries. The event was not held in 2015 and 2017, which has set us up for a 2018-2019 back-to back competition.

vs QLD Shield competition.

Competitors’ points were allocated to the state they nominated. NSW won the challenge in 2018. With the first State of Origin game on the Wednesday before the Greenback Competition weekend, the Greenback NSW and QLD fishing polo

Club (and Fishing Club) as the major sponsor of the event, supported by platinum sponsors Tweed Coast Marine and Mad Keen.

Our 2019 gold sponsors are Alvey Reels, Gary Howard Performance Rods, BCF Ballina and On-Site Fastening Solutions.

The fishing event has been held on the NSW Queen’s Birthday weekend for many years at Cabarita Beach, and this year we are planning for 800+ competitors from NSW and QLD to attend the new event location at Pottsville Beach Sports Club.

to 15 fish per entrant in the interest of sustainability.

The competition will have three sign-on locations.

Ballina and Gold Coast (online entries only from 8am) and Pottsville Beach (online entries from 8am and cash sales from 9am). As the boundaries have significantly changed, together with two additional sign-on stations at either end of the competition, you can fish up and down the coast at your favourite QLD or NSW secret locations.

Be sure to bring that prize fish back on Sunday at the Pottsville Beach Sports Club by 9am sharp.

shirts were a big success.

This year the fishing polo and a new T-shirt Back2Back design will be available.

For 2019 (our 32nd year), the Greenback Management Team has partnered with the Pottsville Beach Sports

Keen $250 voucher (fishing apparel); and 5th Prize is a Pottsville Bait & Tackle $150 voucher. You can also purchase raffle tickets online at lionsgreenback.com.

An early bird rate saving of $10 is offered up until 1

This year there are three sign-on locations to help cater for those fishing further along the coast. Just make sure you’re back at Pottsville Beach Sports Club by 9am on Sunday 9 June.

Included in online registration is entry into two monthly prize draws for $100 BCF vouchers.

The 2018 competition made some changes with an increase in prizes, moving the northern boundary to the NSW and QLD border and the introduction of the inaugural 2018 Fowler Building Services Greenback NSW

8 June at your chosen sign-on location, you’ll get your QR code scanned, pick-up your fishing bag and competition rules and away you go.

The Greenback event will close at 2pm, so the Queensland entrants do have

This year there is even more NSW and QLD merchandise available for purchase.

The Greenback Management Team have made changes to maximise the entrants’ fishing time.

This year there is no geographical limit to the area in which fish may be caught, other than you must be in NSW or QLD beach, rock, river and estuary tidal waters.

This change has an impact on the size limits, as they are a combination of NSW and QLD regulations, and the bag limit has been reduced

Our registration and ticketing system has been upgraded. You can now register multiple entries, order competition merchandise and purchase a Tweed Coast 4WD permit all on the one page. Payment options online include PayPal, VISA, Mastercard, AMEX, money order, cheque and bank transfer. Once payment is approved, you will receive an entry ticket with a QR code/barcode. On

some time to travel home.

The prize goods are from fishing and camping product lines. All entrants will have a complimentary ticket in the Lions Charity Raffle, a breakfast (scan QR code on ticket) and the chance to win lucky prize draws on Sunday morning. The Lions Charity Raffle has the following prizes: 1st Prize is your choice between a $6000 Tweed Coast Marine boat package, or $5,000 cash from Pottsville Beach Sports Club; 2nd Prize is a $6000 Tweed Coast Marine boat package, or $5,000 cash from Pottsville Beach Sports Club, dependent on 1st prize winner’s choice; 3rd Prize is a North Star Holiday Resort $1500 voucher; 4th Prize is a Mad

May, 2019. In addition to the early bird savings, entrants who register online will be entered into two monthly prize draws for $100 BCF (Ballina) vouchers and fishing magazine subscriptions. The standard entry rate for adults has been set at $50, seniors (55yo+) at $45 and Juniors (16yo and younger) $35. For those who cannot use the online system, there will be a paper-based form to download, complete and return to Stephen, for entry into the event system.

For more information visit their website lionsgreenback.com, send them an email at greenback_ chair@lionsgreenback. com or contact Stephen on 0421 052 135. – Greenback Fishing Competition

East Coast Bream Series returns www.fishin.com.au TOURNAMENT TACKLE STORE

ZX BLADES ZMAN GRUBZ CRANKA CRABS

BENT MINNOWS

Western Sydney Bream and Bass (WSBB) are proud to announce the return of the East Coast Bream Series again in 2019!

The inaugural series in 2018 was a fantastic success, with a total of over $26,000 in prize money and an additional $5,000 of sponsor prizes given away over the series.

This is a huge result given the difficulty of not only putting a new series

together, but also the way the WSBB committee was able to get it up and running in a relatively short period of time.

Last year’s series consisted of four qualifying rounds plus a grand final, with an average of 50 boats per round taking part. This year WSBB have added an additional qualifier, giving anglers another chance to book their spot in the 2019 Grand Final, which is to

JACKALL CHUBBY

FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING

0425 230 964 – info@fishin.com.au SHOP 18, 29 KIORA RD MIRANDA NSW 2228

62

MARCH 2019

The series sees some serious anglers and vessels taking to some of the state’s best breaming locations.

Last year’s series saw lots of big bream caught and released, and the smiles that go along with it. be held on the NSW South Coast in October.

The series will follow the same format as last year, with a team of two anglers and a nominated third angler, all decided before the first round. Each team will be doing their best to weigh their five biggest bream from the session.

The rounds are spread out throughout the year to give the anglers a mix of different

conditions and locations across some of the best big bream locations in NSW. All the details of the rounds, dates and locations can be found at www.wsbb.com.au or join us on Facebook (East Coast Bream Series).

Entries are currently open for round one, so get yourself a team together and join us for a great day on the water! – WSBB

THE outboard of the FUTURE

Evinrude E-TEC G2 The outboard of the future. AVAILABLE TODAY Introducing a revolutionary concept in outboards – a choice.

Now, choose cutting-edge over commonplace. Choose more torque over more talk. Choose more time on the water over more time in the shop. Choose the outboard that performs, and looks like no other outboard in the world.

Contact your local dealer today SYDNEY SOUTH

Hunts Marine

259 West St, Carlton, NSW, 2218 02 9546 1324 www.huntsmarine.com.au • info@huntsmarine.com.au

SYDNEY WEST

Blakes Marine

1 Railway Road North, Mulgrave, 2756 02 4577 6699 www.blakesmarine.com.au • sales@blakesmarine.com.au

NOWRA

Dave Hill Marine

1 Berry St, Nowra, 2540 02 4423 6137 info@davehillmarine.com.au

PORT STEPHENS

Bay Boat Sales

332 Soldiers Pt Rd, Salamander Bay, 2317 02 4982 7899 www.bayboatsales.com.au • bayboatsales@hotmail.com

COWRA

All Service Motors

1 Redfern St, Cowra, 2794 02 6342 2590 www.allservicemotors.com.au • allservicemotors@bigpond.com

COFFS HARBOUR

Thwaites Marine

30 Industrial Drive, Coffs Harbour 02 6651 7810 www.thwaitesmarine.com.au • shop@thwaitesmarine.com.au

WHAT’S NEW FISHING POWERDOLPHIN WATER DRONE

1

ATOMIC HARDZ SLAPPA

4

PowerVision is launching the world’s first multi-functional water drone.

Equipped with a 220° dual-joint rotation camera, the PowerDolphin can capture 4K UltraHigh-Definition footage. The camera can rotate 70° above water and 150° below the water, sending real-time 1080 pixel footage wirelessly to your phone through the Vision+ app, with a maximum transmission distance of 1000m. The drone includes adjustable front lights to capture stunning illuminated photography in various water conditions.

The integrated PowerSeeker detects fish within a range of 40m and travels by waypoint to the perfect fishing spot, utilising the built-in sonar GPS to plot the ocean floor. It will tow hooks, lure fish, release bait and capture fish at a distance of up to 1000m. Once the fish takes the bait, the PowerDolphin will automatically drag itself back to the controller.

The PowerDolphin can travel at a speed of 5m per second. A helpful technology for Australia’s lifesavers, PowerDolphin’s robust design and 3 speed gears enables it to tow and remotely release lifejackets, lifebuoys and other rescue equipment.

Price: SRP $1299 www.powervision.me

The Atomic Hardz is one of the most popular lure brands in Australia, and the new Slappa has just arrived and has quickly proven itself on Murray cod up to 70cm and larger bass.

The Atomic Slappa is a classic surface crawler designed to make maximum disturbance on the water. It is 90mm long and has large aluminium wings that fold against the body, enabling anglers to deliver a long accurate cast time and time again. The wide body displaces water and provides the point upon which it waddles across the surface. The small cupped face also spits water as it moves across the surface.

Cast them for bass and cod, wind slowly and hold on!

The Slappa is available in 14 colours, including both natural and brightly visible patterns, and also some glow colours for anglers casting at night.

For more information on this and other new releases, visit the Atomic website or check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/ atomiclures. www.atomiclures.com.au

DAIWA FUEGO NATIVE CUSTOM

MAXIMA CLEAR

2

Bold in looks and impressive in design, the Fuego Native Custom is a baitcaster that definitely stands out from the crowd.

The Fuego’s striking low profile aluminium frame sits effortlessly in the hand and combines with its advanced technologies and designs to ultimately impress in style and engage in performance.

Weighing in at 215g, the Fuego Native Custom is lean and mean where it counts, yet refined and precision designed where it’s needed. It’s a combination that many reels aspire to have but few budget priced reels fully achieve.

Featuring many of Daiwa’s best baitcaster design features including Magforce Z, UTD, Swept Handle, and a spec sheet that includes a 6.3:1 and 7.3:1 retrieve ratios, six ball bearings, the Fuego Native Custom is pimped and ready for baitcaster excellence. www.daiwafishing.com.au

NIKWAX SOLARWASH

3

In just two weeks of summer exposure, synthetic materials can lose up to half their strength, making them much more vulnerable to tearing and puncture. To save your expensive gear, and double its lifespan, simply apply both Nikwax SolarWash and SolarProof. Their combined presence forms a protective coating which helps to maintain the product’s exterior.

Both sprays also individually increase UV resistance by 50% and form a waterproof shield against unwanted leakage.

With the ability to remove dirt and other barriers that decrease water repellency, SolarWash is the perfect high-performance tool for protecting outdoor equipment. It increases the durable water repellency of a product to the highest testable standard after just one spray and rub-in.

Both water-based sprays can be applied to wet or dry equipment that has been cleaned.

For the best results, apply Nikwax SolarWash and SolarProof to brand new equipment.

All Nikwax products are palm oil free, nonhazardous, water-based, biodegradable and contains zero fluorocarbons.

Price: SRP $25.95 (SolarWash), $34.95 (SolarProof) www.nikwax.com

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PRODUCT GUIDE 1

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Maxima, a company that has produced quality monofilament fishing lines for decades, has now upped its game once again, with the introduction of Maxima Clear!

The new Maxima Clear fishing line is incredibly strong and easy to handle, yet retains the tough, high-durability finish that maxima has always been known for. It has outstanding knot strength, exceptional abrasion resistance and low memory to improve casting distance. On top of that, its clear finish makes it difficult for fish to detect under water.

Maxima Clear meets a wide range of freshwater and saltwater fishing situations, from casting and jigging to trolling and bottom fishing.

It is available in Leader Wheels, with poundages between 1-30lb, Guide Spools, with poundages between 6-50lb, and Service Spools, with poundages between 2-130lb. There really is a Clear spool to meet just about any fishing situation. www.jmgillies.com.au

ZEREK GADGET Z TRAYS

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Zerek has released an airtight range of storage trays to keep your tackle in the best shape possible.

Worm proof and TPE plastic safe, the Gadget Z range from Zerek makes use of a large rubber seal to keep these boxes airtight, and this serves to prevent water from getting in to destroy the lures inside.

Made from polypropylene material, the Gadget Z trays comes with removable compartment separators to allow the angler to design their own internal layout how they want, while maintaining the airtight seal to protect expensive lures.

Additionally, three extra strong locking clasps are fitted to ensure the tight seal remains locked tight, regardless of how the boxes are stored or transported.

Initially two models are available, the large size coming in at 360x230x50mm and the small at a compact 275x185x50mm. www.wilsonfishing.com

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PRODUCT GUIDE

WHAT’S NEW FISHING SHIMANO REVOLUTION SERIES 7

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The newly revamped Revolution series brings 20 different rods to choose from in spin, jig, troll and surf, they’ve got you covered, whatever the target species.

This is a wide-ranging series, consisting of light, medium and heavy spin, baitcast, jig, bluewater troll rods at value for money prices – in effect, almost every fishing style available in Australia.

The new Revolution models have been updated with all-new fittings. Using Fuji O Ring guides, which have increased protection for the insert, Soft Touch reel seats for greater comfort during long fishing sessions, which complement the hard-wearing customshaped EVA fore and butt grips. The twopiece rods also have subtle ferruling system that you’d be hard pressed to pick.

Utilising Shimano’s 24-30 Ton Toray graphite, the blanks the new Revolutions are built on combine casting performance – where applicable – with incredible lifting and fish fighting power. www.shimanofish.com.au

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ZMAN TRD CRAWZ

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Joining the already incredible line-up of various soft baits ZMan offers, the new TRD CrawZ is sure to fill a gap for those chasing crustacean-eating critters in fresh and saltwater.

One thing that makes the TRD CrawZ so unbelievably effective is the fact that when it’s rigged on a NedLockZ jighead, it stands on its head, waving its claws like a real yabby defending itself. The buoyancy of the 10X ElaZTech material serves to make this feature even more life-like.

The fins on the tail of the yabby resembles a tucked in tail, but also aids in helping this great bait glide naturally to the bottom on a slack line. Additionally, if rigged backwards, it can also glide in under structure!

With 8 colours to choose from, this 2.5” bait will be perfect for the likes of bass, bream, yellowbelly and many, many more. www.tackletactics.com.au

SAMAKI WINDCHIME

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The new Samaki Windchime shirt is saturated in colour; with a scale base for depth, they’ve added some key species to make your fishing senses come alive.

Sailfish, barramundi, jewfish and mangrove jacks feature on the front and back, all erupting out of their hiding places to inhale lures.

The lightweight fabric is perfect for all outdoor elements, protecting from the harsh sunrays with UV50+ resistant technology.

The soft touch 100% polyester material is comfortable on the body, plus has the added feature of being breathable, keeping the angler cool and dry.

Samaki designs are brought to you

by Australian anglers who love to design Australian species. Windchime shirts are available in adult, youth and kids sizes from a size 2 through to a 2XL, allowing the whole family to get in on the action and out onto the water.

Price: RRP from $49.95 www.samaki.com.au

DUO ROUGH TRAIL HYDRA

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WARLOCK COD LOLLY

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Long and lean and designed as the ultimate sinking stickbait for large predators, the new Duo Rough Trail Hydra 220 is the lure to pack for your next offshore adventure.

Slim-profiled and with a fixed weight in the tail to maximise casting performance and enhance its action, the Hydra 220 features a dynamic skipping action when worked across the surface, while a twitch and jerk retrieve will see it move from side to side to enhance strikes.

A hyper realistic garfish imitation when worked across the surface, the Hydra is ultra long (220mm) in length to reduce fishing swallowing and biting off the lure, while its tail-heavy, 58.2g body weight allows for long, tangle free casting on the water.

If you’re looking to call up the predators to the surface the new Duo Rough Trail Hydra 220 is the lure to reach for. www.duo-australia.com.au

Just in time for big cod season, the Warlock Cod Lolly is here and ready to make an impact on the Murray cod fishing community.

The Warlock Cod Lolly is suitable for the deeper dwelling fish that are a challenge to reach with other lures, and it has the ability to dive quickly to the required depth. This lure will get in the faces of big predators in their hidey-holes and put you I with more chances at landing that dream fish.

The Cod Lolly has an incredibly enticing sideways swaying action that is irresistible to most predatory fish, especially big Murray cod in rivers and dams.

The Cod Lolly is available in a range of striking colours and is very well built, with quality materials to handle the toughest predatory fish, and will see you through many memorable cod captures. www.jmgillies.com.au

SHIMANO TRANX 200

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Shimano’s Tranx baitcaster series has been expanded, with the addition of a 200 size in two retrieve ratio options. Whether you’re chasing barra and threadies upstream or even big Murray cod, GTs and the like out the front, these are perfect for the job.

These reals feature the CoreProtect system, which offers superior saltwater resistance through an internal water repellent and water resistant seal system.

A large 48mm throw handle with double paddle assists cranking power and complements the 7.2:1 gear ratio (the 200A has a 6.2:1 retrieve speed).

Featuring Shimano’s Hagane Body, the Tranx holds 170m+ of 30lb braid, and boasts a 5.5kg Cross Carbon drag.

The new SVS Infinity casting controls make these reels a precision caster’s dream by adjusting the external brake adjustment dial. A longer handle and three SA-RB bearings plus one roller bearing provide almost effortless winding.

Shimano recommends pairing the Tranx 200 with a JDM Dialuna or revamped Revolution series rod. www.shimanofish.com.au

Please email contributions to: nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au MARCH 2019

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WHAT’S NEW FISHING SAMAKI SKITCH X

OKUMA KOMODO 13 SS 273

Samaki Skitch X offers you a new range taking Skitch into the future.

With an extended history of Skitch and Skitch Nano, Skitch X has combined all of its predecessors fantastic features and rolled them into the one. The X factor in the Skitch X is obvious in its ultra slick cosmetics with a sleek black blank encased in X weave wrap, a powerful performance feature, ultra hard EVA grips for comfort and support as well as striking blue details and carbon fibre locking rings.

The Samaki Skitch X has been created for every angler across the nation, from Barra fishing enthusiasts with a 6’0ft cast and spin model , to the estuary fisherman taking advantage of light and medium spin 7’ models, offering the ever so popular slug spinning 9’ model plus the famous 6’6” and 7’ heave models which are designed to give you the grunt you require when fishing heavier slugs.

Price: from SRP $99.95 www.samaki.com.au

ZEREK AFFINITY

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The Zerek Affinity is a 220mm long, 3-jointed floating swimbait originally designed for large bass and pike, but built to accommodate the brutal fisheries that are Murray cod and barramundi.

Constructed with a tough ABS plastic body that is supported by through wire construction to ensure durability, the Affinity features a unique joint section that creates a smooth sliding action during retrieve.

With its large profile, the Affinity is the prefect size for massive predators that are feeding on larger baitfish in the fresh or the salt, and with the addition of the two provided removable weights (10g and 20g), the Affinity can target them at any depth. The removable weight concept keeps the extra weight perfectly hidden, and balances the lure’s action whether you’re using the lure unweighted or with the chin weights.

Unweighted, the Affinity weighs in at 96g and comes in 10 very lifelike colours. www.wilsonfishing.com

RAPALA BC400

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The Okuma Komodo SS Series of baitcast reels has made a name for itself in big fish circles, taking on species such as barramundi, Murray cod, PNG black bass and offshore jigging targets, thanks to its stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, drive and spool shafts, offering the ultimate power, combined with impressive drag outputs.

The compact and much anticipated 200 Series models are now available, including the KDS-273 and KDS-273LX (left hand). Both models fit neatly in the palm, boast 9kg of drag, a gear ratio of 7.3:1 and a line capacity of 0.29mm/205m. They boast a heavy-duty build, heavy drag capabilities and plenty of line capacity in a compact size.

This feature-packed reel also includes precision Japanese ABEC-5 spool bearings, 6-pin Velocity Control casting system, Spool Access Port, rigid diecast aluminium frame and side plates with CRC: Corrosion Resistant Coating process, A6061-T6 machined aluminium, anodized spool, multi-disc high output Carbonite drag system, dual antireverse for maximum reliability, Zirconium line guide, synchronized level wind optimized for braid, and more.

Price: SRP $389.90 www.okuma.com.au

SKY RIGGER

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A new drone fishing device invented by NSW anglers Jaiden Maclean and Byron Leal has launched after more than two years’ research and development.

The pair created the patented Sky Rigger following the viral success of their Drone Fishing for Tuna video, which achieved hundreds of millions of views across the world.

At the time, they used a makeshift device to attach their rig to a drone and deliver the bait from the beach out beyond the breakers, and within 24 hours they landed a 20kg tuna.

The success of the video inspired them to develop a new drone accessory to make the sport safe and accessible for everyone.

The Sky Rigger, distributed by Sea Ulcer, attaches to DJI Phantom drones. Its unique, foolproof design ensures the safety of the drone while allowing unimpeded use of its camera so anglers can capture unique unseen fishing action.

Price: SRP $199 www.seaulcer.com

BLACK MAGIC 15 FLEA

The new Rapala BC400 is the ultimate all-round oversized baitcast reel. Whether you are casting large swimbaits for Murray cod and barramundi, or slow pitch jigging reefs for demersal species, the BC400 is the ultimate crossover reel.

It also features six ball bearings and a large over-sized handle, and the 6.3:1 gear ratio allows the angler to wind fast when needed, making this reel a very versatile fish catching weapon.

The CNC machined alloy spool has a line capacity of 200m/0.33mm of 50lb braid, and is easily accessible with a quick switch side plate, allowing for quick and easy maintenance on or off the water.

Carbon fibre drag washers with a drag output of 10kg/22lb, centrifugal brake system, precision machined brass gear and a one-way clutch system will see you stopping and landing that fish of a lifetime.

Check it out at your favourite tackle store. www.rapala.com.au

PRODUCT GUIDE

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Like the Maggot lure before it, the wellknown Black Magic Flea has had a refresh with some great looking new skirt colours added to the range Coupled with some of the old favourites, anglers can now select from 10 colour options to suit their preferences.

For those who aren’t familiar with the Flea, it’s a 200mm lure ideally suited for tuna, but it’s got a great record with other pelagic species like mahi mahi, sailfish and marlin. The head itself is 30mm in length and is a cup face pusher with a small reverse taper. That gives it a nice wriggly trolling action with a good bubble trail.

Black Magic recommends using up to 200lb leader with this lure and a 7/0 game hook.

The last point worth noting is that all the heads have good UV content which you’ll see if you place them under a UV light. You’ll notice UV content in some of the skirts and there are glowing lumo versions too – all extra attraction for your target species. www.blackmagictackle.com

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WHAT’S NEW FISHING

Unique Yamashita Eginno Pyonpyon new on the squid scene

TESTED

Anybody who enjoys squid fishing, whether it is an obsession or an occasional flirtation, would or should know the Yamashita brand of squid jigs.

Yamashita’s innovation is second to none, and the jigs in their various iterations are available at an affordable price.

I have accumulated a significant collection of Yamashita jigs over the years. It has been difficult to walk past them in a tackle store and not at least grab one or two.

Eginno Pyonpyon It can be interesting to find out the translations of Japanese product names. In this case, ‘Eginno’ is the combination of egi (squid) with innovation, and Pyonpyon means ‘jump jump’, like the flicking of a prawn.

Like all Yamashita jigs, these new jigs have some unique and interesting features to attract cephalopods to them. All of these features are based around mimicking a prawn in the water.

The first thing you’ll notice is the folding front flap. It is designed to fold back on the cast to assist with casting distance, and will then fold out during your retrieve to create a unique water resistance. The goal is to create an effect that’s similar to

The author with a handful of South Australian cephalopod. that of a prawn swimming. I assumed that the design would give the jig a bit of a sideto-side action like it does with a lure, but this was not the case. There was no visible action created by the bib, but it does slow the decent of the lure. This is ideal when you’re fishing shallow water for the likes of tiger squid in Queensland, as you can fish far more slowly, keeping the jig in the zone for longer.

The next feature that’s a bit different is the addition the leg feathers. Video of the jig underwater show that these feathers need minimal movement of the jig for them to move and sway, similar to that of a prawn swimming. I suspect that for squid, with their high sense of vision, this additional movement would further spark interest in the jig.

The Search Rattle in Yamashita jigs is a feature I have always liked, and I am glad it is in the Eginno Pyonpyon. I was lucky enough to speak to one of the members of the Yamashita research and development team a number of years ago about this.

He explained to me that they had put a huge amount of hours into creating the correct pitch in the Search Rattle – 600hz to be exact. At 600hz the Search Rattle mimics a feeding sound that hungry squid

The Yamashita Eginno Pyonpyon looks a little different from conventional squid jigs. Different in this case is full of Yamashita innovation. are attracted to. How’s that for attention to detail?

My experience with the Yamashita rattling jigs is that you will have occasions where if you are not using a rattling jig, you may as well not be fishing. It really can make all the difference.

Last but not least are the 490 Glow Beads. These have been inserted into the body of the jig to create the unique glow a prawn emits in the water. This is not a feature of all the colours in the range, however, as some are UV enhanced instead.

From the packet to the water It is one thing to be different, but that difference also needs to work. I was given a couple of jigs in the 3.5, 18g size, and my plan was to use them in the squidrich waters around Port Vincent in South Australia. From a squid fishing perspective, this is a magnificent place as you have plenty of options, whether you’re landbased or fishing from a boat.

Even the smallest squid enveloped the jig. There was no questioning they wanted it!

The marina wall was my first port of call, and I realised pretty quickly that I had to fish the Eginno jig a little differently from other jigs. With traditional jigs I generally use quite a strong whipping action, with a short to medium pause in between. I found that although this retrieve did work with the Eginno, the 3.2 second per metre drop rate of the jig meant that my pause needed to be longer.

I also found that the Eginno didn’t whip from side to side like a standard jig, but instead hopped up and up, moving out of the strike zone. More subtle hops were better, and I didn’t have to worry about the jig plummeting into the structure below.

Looking back at it now, it was a more finesse presentation, which was ideal during the Christmas holiday break. There was certainly plenty of fishing pressure on the local squid, and we had more success than most.

This also proved to be the case out of the boat. The slower presentation had the jig in the zone for longer, and the squid couldn’t resist them.

I think part of the reason for our success was the hook-up location of the Eginno jigs. In 10 days of fishing them I had zero just tentacle hook-ups. Even the smallest squid enveloped the jig.

The majority of the hook-ups were in the

The author was impressed with the hook-up points when using the Eginno jig. Most squid were hooked in the prime location between the eyes, with no tentacle hook-ups.

The result of a couple of hours testing the Yamashita Eginno Pyonpyon.

sweet spot between the eyes. You get maximum result for effort when you are hooking them there.

Final thoughts I didn’t think I needed more squid jigs, but I have now changed my mind. There are enough differences in the Eginno jigs, and situations where they would be the best option, that I’ve decided to get a few more.

Bring on the squid season here in Southeast Queensland, because I can’t wait to use the Yamashita Eginno jigs on the tiger squid around the Moreton Bay islands. I think the Eginnos will be perfect for the shallow water presentation required to target these squid.

The Eginno jigs are available in two sizes (3.0/15g and 3.5/18g). Both sink at the same rate and are available in eight colours. To find out more about the Yamashita Eginno range, and the other Yamashita jigs available, go to www.ejtodd.com.au or check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ Yamashita.Australia. - Peter Jung

MARCH 2019

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Persistence is the key CANBERRA

Toby Grundy

I spent the better part of January and a fair chunk of February at the South Coast. Like a lot of Canberra locals, I head to the coast to escape the hot weather and also to

most, but the amount of likeminded anglers I met out on the water who spoke to me at length about preserving fisheries like the Clyde River and the measures anglers are going to so as to protect these amazing waterways.

Nowhere was this more apparent than when I visited the Compleat Angler

Lake Burley Griffin has not been fishing well, but there are goldens on offer for those who put in the time. get stuck into some great fishing. I ended up breaking my PB estuary perch one day only to break it again the next, while also landing big numbers of bream, flathead and bass.

However, it wasn’t the fishing that impressed me

Batemans Bay, where I overheard staff speaking to a number of young anglers about the importance of looking after the fish, taking only what is needed and always following the rules.

Now I’m not kidding myself, I am sure there is

BOATING FISHING CAMPING HUNTING

some illegal fishing going on, but overall I was impressed with what I saw at the coast. I think those of us from Canberra are only going to benefit more and more from the increasing number of anglers down South who are doing so much to build sustainable fisheries. Being less than two hours away from some of the best saltwater fishing in the country and the fact it is going to stay that way is cause to celebrate.

LOCAL LAKES Lake Burley Griffin is fishing well for redfin and carp but the natives have been skittish lately, particularly lure shy. The pest species are responding well to soft plastics fished around the points and along the flats at dawn and dusk.

Darker colours work best when partnered with a 1/8oz jighead making it possible to sight cast at redfin patrolling the shallows.

Nerrang Pool is a great place to target carp and redfin as the fish are trapped (from the main lake) due to low water levels but are still in great condition. If chasing a golden perch, be prepared to put the hours in and cast small, shallow running divers like the Ecogear CX 35 around shade lines after the heat of the day. Slow rolling a plastic around significant snags in the Molongolo is another way to connect with a good-sized yella.

Lake Ginninderra has provided some good fishing action over the last few weeks, with a couple of large natives caught by anglers fishing after dark.

Rick Lomas warrants special mention as he managed to land a good yella in tough conditions, proving that patience and persistence pay off.

Soft plastics and small blades have accounted for the majority of the natives,

Despite the weather and flooding, small cod are on the chew in the Murrumbidgee. but the vibes have also produced fish, especially at dawn around the dam wall.

The redfin have been on the bite – pushing bait up against the shallows around the reed-lined banks at

late. A few lucky anglers have caught large yellas and small cod, but most who have fished the lake recently have left empty handed.

That said, the carp fishing has been excellent with large

South Coast fishing at its best, and it is only getting better!

Diddams Close. This is a great place to fish from the bank or from a kayak/boat as there are always some big reds on offer and the cod are never far away.

Lake Tuggeranong has been a real mixed bag of

fish hitting both bait and lure with abandon.

Unfortunately, the lake is riddled with carp but they do reach exceptional size and are a lot of fun to battle on light tackle. The area just opposite the dog park is a

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great place to cast plastics for carp as the fish push up onto the rocks in the late afternoon, as do the redfin.

The Murrumbidgee River is hit and miss. There have been some good cod

The river cod are in good condition.

caught on spinnerbaits and swimbaits in the faster pools, and most fish caught have been in good condition.

However, the river is still a bit murky and there hasn’t been a lot of surface action.

Hopefully this improves in the coming weeks and the river settles after a lot of damaging weather throughout December, January and February.

SURROUNDS Googong is fishing well for redfin and golden perch.

Despite the hot weather, the lake continues to produce excellent fish with several anglers landing golden perch to well over 50cm.

The cod are also on the bite. Sam Hancox proved this when he caught a 118cm fish and dropped two other huge fish during a memorable afternoon session a few weeks ago. Most anglers who have had success report that large plastics or spinnerbaits have undone the better fish while following the redfin. Dropping large vibes through the school has also been an effective tactic.

Drought an easy out in fish kills ROBINVALE

Rod Mackenzie codmac@bigpond.net.au

The fishing has remained much the same since our last report, although the weather has turned on some scorching hot days. For almost a month the weather has hovered between 35-45ºC, providing short windows of comfort for those wetting a line.

Morning and evening have offered the best bites and the coolest conditions to be on the water. The Murray River at Murrabit continues to fish well for Murray cod, with several fish landed this past month measuring in at over the metre mark.

With water clarity along the Murray River is still a little on the dirty side, the best catches have come on bait. Grubs, scrubworms, yabbies and chicken have all accounted for Murray cod.

The Murray River at Swan hill has also fished well in the warm weather with good numbers of Murray cod landed once again on bait. The cod have ranged in size from 50-91cm and once again, most have been landed during the cooler low light periods.

The Murray River at Nyah is also producing some nice cod up to 90cm on both bait and brightly-coloured lures.

The Wakool River at Kyalite is fishing well for smaller Murray cod to 60cm and some good-sized golden perch up to 50cm.

Scrubworms, river shrimp and small yabbies have tempted the perch, while the cod have preferred grubs and cheese.

Further downstream along the Murray River to Boundary Bend, anglers are reporting cod to 70cm on cheese and chicken and

a few good-sized perch on river shrimp and worms.

It seems the cod at many locations are trending towards kitchen baits.

Some good-sized perch have been landed from the Murray River at Wemen on bait, with just the odd small cod caught, mostly on cheese. It’s a similar story as you continue downstream to Wentworth, where several good-sized Murray cod to

80cm have been landed on trolled lures.

The Darling River continues to be the cod killing field, with another massive fish kill decimating native fish stocks to the tune of a million fish or more.

The stance from the MDBA is that drought is solely to blame for this event, yet as stated in last month’s report the Menindee Lakes were full in 2016, holding enough The second fish kill at Menindee was as bad, if not worse, than the first. water to keep the Darling below Menindee in flow for six years. This life-saving water was released in less than eighteen months, even though they were warned by the scientific experts of the possible effects to fish and the lower Darling River.

They went against their own payed advisors and emptied the lakes anyway.

I have watched this whole thing unfold and watched the response of the general public and several peak fishing bodies. It seems strange to me that the peak fishing bodies failed to make mention of these events openly or on social media without prompting, or for one group, until the second massive event got some media traction.

One group missed the

A few good cod are being caught at night on both bait and lures, like this one landed by Gareth Lynch.

first event, even though it was right in their own back yard. Not a mention on their social media page, even though an estimated one million fish had died starting on 12 December.

They did, however, get on board almost a full month after the second kill got full blown media attention.

I can’t help but wonder why they missed the first massive kill. Perhaps they did not want to play the blame game...

Have we seen the last of the Darling River fish kills or will the rest of the river also be stripped clear of its fishes? I guess only time will tell, but without a huge rain event the fish that inhabit the Darling below Menindee are most certainly looking down the barrel.

Wonderful weather brings fantastic fishing MILDURA

Rob Oswin

What an exciting month we’ve had, with great weather and even better fishing.

Amazingly, we can expect this to continue. Over the course of the month I’ve been hearing more and more reports of people catching some fantastic fish.

The majority of reports have been of fantastic sized golden perch being caught.

With captures 50cm and above, it’s pretty safe to say that the Mildura area has been producing some great fishing. This could be due to the combination of the beautiful weather we have been experiencing and the fish actively hunting for food. Bait and lures have been effective lately, so it is

no surprise that the quality of fish has been better than average.

Smaller lures have been the most effective with vibe type lures still being the go-to for many anglers. Brands such as Jackall, Megabass, Balista and Savage Gear have been the pick of the bunch. The lighter colours have been drawing most of the fish in. The darker colours have still been producing some

Some eel-tailed catfish have been larger than 50cm lately. They are a fantastic by-catch species.

There have been some decent eel-tailed catfish around. It is great to see a native species making a comeback.

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quality fish, but not quite in the numbers that the lighter colours have been.

Bait has still been a great go-to for those who don’t want to put in as much effort as those using lures. Shrimp and yabbies have been the most popular choice for many, but worms have been extremely useful, resulting in multiple catches of carp larger than 75cm.

There has been some fantastic by-catch being caught recently. One of the primary by-catch species has been eel-tailed catfish. Many of the catches have been larger than 50cm. It is awesome to see more and more of these fish, it shows that the native species are making a comeback. There have also been many reports of more and more turtles being caught.

With Easter just around the corner you can expect a large amount of people on and around the river, and as a result of more fishers we should see more fish being caught. It also brings safety to the forefront, as boat traffic will much higher than usual in and around the river. Remember to stay safe and look out for those around.

Time for cod to switch on YARRAWONGA

Tony Bennett codclassic@bigpond.com

For those in search of a mighty Murray cod or two, we’re genuinely entering the prime time of year to be giving Lake Mulwala a good crack. From now up until May, all roads should lead to the home of the Murray Cod, Lake Mulwala. Slightly cooler temperatures than the past month or two will lead to pleasant and rewarding fishing days.

This time of year with is when the cod are moving back into the shallower water, so casting or trolling any style of lure, be it a hardbody, crankbait, swimbait or spinnerbait, you will be in with a better than average chance of encountering some

rod bending action. The prime water depths to look for range from 2-5m.

Any night or morning with minimal breeze is well worth a look for those keen to get in on some surface action. By far, this is the most exciting form of cod fishing.

For those who haven’t had a crack on the surface, it’s pretty simple – cast it out and retrieve it slowly. The hardest part is keeping your nerve and not striking if you get a hit. Also, for safety sake, take a spare pair of jocks with you!

Looking back, January was a tough month, but in saying that, there were plenty of 1m+ cod caught and released. I put the ‘tough’ fishing down to two things.

First up, with a string of 40ºC+ days I believe the fish were feeling and had moved to deeper dwellings away from the standard 1-3m

mark we predominantly fish.

Secondly, with the mass increase of boats and jet skis scooting around the lake over the holiday period, this is sure to make them a bit gun shy.

Whenever there seemed to be a sudden change in weather pattern the cod seemed to go off for a 12-hour window or so. This happened a couple of times over the month, and with it came big cod.

A few deserve special mention. First up is Sunbury boy Ben Sharp. Ben loves fishing the lake and spends plenty of hours out with his girls, with them normally catching the fish! Ben’s turn came when he landed a wonderful 110cm off the surface. To top it off he came back the next weekend and proceeded to upgrade his PB, with another metre fish, this time measuring 112cm!

Ben’s lure of choice was a

Koolabung Cod Cracker.

Next up is Cain Peatling.

On a blowy morning he headed downriver with fishing mate Brayden Bosio.

Low and behold, third cast of the morning, his Kuttafurra Rat was smashed off the top by a beast that went 121cm.

Not to be outdone, the following weekend Brayden came up trumps when his trolled lure was inhaled by a monster that measured 120cm, and this time Cain was the net boy.

Daneka Robinson was next to score, when her swimbait was inhaled by a beautiful 110cm specimen.

As always there was plenty of action downstream in the river. Amongst the plethora of smaller Murray cod, trout cod, carp, silver perch and the odd golden, some respectable fish were reported. The secret to the

Ben Sharp with a beautiful 110cm Murray cod that he took on a surface lure. bigger fish was big baits. I did hear of a 117cm model that was taken on chicken, which is a new trendy bait that seems to be accounting for its fair share of cod.

The competition season is upon us, with two events coming up in March. The

first is the ever-popular His & Hers Partners Classic on 2 March. To round out the comp season is the Cod Nationals, with four days of serious tournament fishing for the dedicated green fish angler held between 14-17 March.

It’s a top time for topwater ALBURY/WODONGA

Connor Heir

We’ve seen long hot days, sunburn, fish and smiles, combine to make up some pretty epic fishing sessions.

March is on us, which is another great time of year to catch our prized natives. With the sun not going down until nearly 9pm, it’s a time when you can have some awesome fishing sessions.

March is one of my favourite months of the cod season for banging cod off the top. After the hot days fade into darkness, you can have some very successful fishing sessions. Surface lures are such a fun way to catch cod, and it’s addictive, but it can also be quite a challenge, with anglers often dropping as many fish as they land, if not more.

The surface ‘boof’ is like nothing else. The techniques of surface fishing are quite broad, so many keen fishers

March is a great time to be chasing river cod. have their favourite lures or techniques. When cod are active, at times you can’t do anything wrong, as long as you have the appropriate tackle to handle them.

You can cast into slight

Downsizing your lures is a great way to get good numbers of fish.

current among willows, snaggy areas, calm areas, backwaters, and the list goes on – cod could be anywhere. But no matter the spot, practicing the dead hands technique is a must.

The dead hands technique, for new cod fishers, can be quite the challenge. Basically, the idea is to not strike, as you will more than likely pull the lure from the fishes’ gob. If you get a boof and there’s no hook up, quite often the fish will strike again. So a nice slow consistent retrieve with the occasional pause seems to be the most effective way to entice a fish to strike. Quite often if you pause your lure after a boof, and then just twitch it, you will get another chance, with the cod coming back for another crack.

Lure choice is very personal, but I highly recommend Kuttafurra Joe The Rat and Creeper, and Jackall Pompadours. I’ve had my most success on these

lures, with Joe The Rat being one of my all time favourite cod lures.

The other tip I have for fishing in March is to sometimes downsize the lure, especially in the daytime. This works for me, so it may help you catch a fish if the going is slow. I’m all for using big lures on cod, especially if you want to catch the bigger ones, but if the going is tough and you just want to get the monkey off your back, downsizing definitely doesn’t hurt.

Wether it be taking the plastics off spinnerbaits and having just the skirt and stinger hook, or using spinnerbaits with only one blade, or even just using smaller lures around 70-90mm – this little trick can be very successful. I have great results with good numbers of cod with smaller lures during the day. It could definitely be worth a crack if you’re just wanting to catch a fish. It’s not impossible to catch big fish on small lures, in fact this has been done many times. However, if you are chasing a bigger trophy cod, it’s probably best to stick to using the bigger stuff.

March, as I said, is an awesome time to start surface fishing in the late afternoons and early mornings. These are just recommended times, and cod will take a surface lure during the day if the conditions are right. However, none of this happens if you don’t put the effort and time in. As I always say, enjoy your fishing, persist and you will eventually see the results you are after.

We are very lucky in this area to have so many fisheries available, with plenty of fish in them to catch. There are areas across the Murray

Spinnerbaits are a great way of finding cod during the day.

Darling Basin that have had devastating fish kills and areas of drought, and luckily we have not been affected. To me, when fishing our waterways there’s a huge sense of respect and appreciation that we have

such awesome places and waterways to fish in this country. So go out and find one for yourself and get addicted, or continue to feed your habit like myself and many other keen fishers do.

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Holding out for some cooler weather catches BATLOW

Wayne Dubois waynedubois@westnet.com.au

The trout fishing in the area has been very good over the last few months.

Considering the abnormally high temperatures, especially over summer, this comes as quite a surprise. Some small streams almost stopped

Great numbers of fit and hungry fish were encountered in almost all streams and rivers with the Tumut River again proving to be the greatest place of all.

From sight fishing big trout in the back waters during high flows to blind casting with sinking hardbodies and spinners in the lower flows, the Tumut River continued to offer anglers some consistent and often crazy results.

that made the effort to get down there was rewarded with some good numbers of Murray cod, trout cod and golden perch.

The Upper Murray also holds a very small number of hybrid cod, which are a cross breed of Murray cod and trout cod. However, most of the ones we have seen doing the rounds on social media circles are simply a normal Murray cod that looks a little bit different to normal.

It is very hard to tell the difference without doing a DNA test on the fish, so

seems to want to ram their opinion down the throat of everyone who disagrees with thm. It is sad to watch on social media circles, as often the one who is almost definitely wrong seems to be the most opinionated. Who cares what species it is, so long as you release the fish in good condition, that is all that should matter.

Blowering Dam yielded some massive Murray cod like usual, but it is important to note that even those anglers that landed some fish often went days without

The Tumut River has yielded the most consistent catch rates when it comes to trout and this will be no different this month.

Large lures, like this Insanity Tackle DDG glidebait, are ideal for targeting the giant Murray cod in Blowering Dam. Cast them around the shallows in low light periods and after dark for your best chances. flowing and their water temperatures reached over 30ºC, which is not ideal for trout and is often deadly for this species. Although, this did not seem to affect the fishing much, if at all.

The dry flyfishing continued to get better and better and I would say that it is at its peak right now.

So if you are one of the many keen anglers waiting to get a few trout on surface

presentations, now is the time.

If you are flyfishing it is very hard to beat a generalist grasshopper pattern. My favourites are the many foam hoppers on the market now, as no matter how wet these flies get they float very well even in high flows. Running a small nymph dropper off the main hopper fly will account for most fish that aren’t willing to rise to the dry fly.

Often when slapped down on the surface the large hopper fly will get their attention and if something isn’t quite right they reject the dry.

Although, more often than not the suspending nymph is too much for them and they grab it with gusto.

It is not quite the same as getting them to rise for the dry, but it is still a visual and exciting way of fishing – just watching that dry fly and waiting for it to pause or pull under the surface before striking to set the hook.

Surface lures are also worth a shot and any small cicada style surface lure should get you a bit of topwater action.

The Murray cod fishing has been all over the place depending on where you fished lately. If you have been getting down to the Upper Murray River above Lake Hume you will have experienced the best fishing it has offered in years. Low flows certainly helped here and almost every angler

Check out the size of this giant carp, it’s not just giant natives and redfin in Blowering anymore.

You just never know what is going to hit your lure next in this amazing mixed fishery. hold back your opinions when it comes to identifying these fish. It seems that every third fish from there is being claimed as a hybrid and every arm chair expert

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MARCH 2019

getting a bite, so don’t be fooled into thinking that these big fish are easy to come by. The guys that brag about their big catches at Blowering very rarely tell you the full story – that they had several fishless trips and/ or days before that one big fish came along.

Towards the end of this month as the temperatures start to cool, you will start to see slightly more regular catches of big Murray cod in this lake and it should only continue to get better as we move closer to winter. If you can’t wait until winter and are planning a trip there, the best times to be targeting these giant fish is still low light periods and after dark.

Large lures cast around the shallow margins at night is the best way of targeting these fish and come expectant to have a lot of fishless hours interspersed with some amazing arm jarring strikes. Put in the effort and eventually you will be rewarded.

Finally some cooler weather LITHGOW/OBERON

Glen Stewart stewie72@bigpond.com

It’s a little hard to comprehend at the moment with so much heat around, but cooler times are definitely not far off. Especially at higher altitudes, trout in the Oberon district will be the first to benefit from the summer storms.

Although they’re patchy, they have kept streams and rivers topped up.

The Duckmalio and Fish rivers will be well worth a look as temperatures drop later in March.

Oberon Dam has fished well of late, with anglers really embracing the access now granted for the use of paddle powered crafts, such as kayaks and canoes. I think this has had a major impact on success of anglers. Wind lane trout feeders that were once out of reach have suddenly become fair game, add to that savvy sounder readers and no redfin is safe.

Land-based anglers will struggle a little until water temperatures drop. I would be timing my run to

s fishing. aven’t seen. our Ultra Lift gh plate sides ng. At a price t Savage.

coincide with two or three days of cool easterly weather patterns if this was the case.

LOCAL IS LOVELY Lake Lyell has been somewhat of a washing machine of late; a swirling mass of pleasure craft towing all manner of rubber

I’ll be honest; it will be so good when the crowds thin out a little…

The trout have been very deep for the most part making them harder to target, but as the water temperatures start to drop later in the month you will see them starting to

Angler access to Oberon Dam via the use of kayaks and canoes has transformed the fishery.

It’s a good news story that keeps giving, and this will hopefully continue for a long time to come. and plastic. Occupants on these contraptions are temporary residents – hanging on for dear life.

It’s a fun activity of which I partake in from time to time, so I totally get it. But

turn up in anglers’ catches.

The bass have been and will continue to be on the chew. The bigger ones are a little harder to find. It’s possible that they are a little more nocturnal in nature, so

keep this in mind if you’re planning a trip. It’s also a good way of avoiding the smaller hoards of redfin that plague lure anglers during daylight hours.

The small redfin know when to lie low. Thompsons Creek Dam (TCD) between Wallerawang and Portland allow shore-based angling with time restrictions on access; the upside to this is less pressure from anglers.

As water temperatures start to fall in late March the trout will move up shallow on mass fresh from a summer spent deep and wide.

I would still time my efforts to early mornings and cooler weather systems for better results, especially earlier in the month. Those cold windy weather systems are few and far between at this time of year, so be sure to make the most of them when they come.

COD AND YELLOWBELLY Cooler water temperatures in Windamere and Wyangala will also see bigger cod and golden perch staying shallower for longer periods. Although it does take quite a while for the temps to turn especially in deeper water, so keep this in

Our western rivers need us, now more than ever. Standing by is no longer an option – be part of the solution. mind. Surface temps can be quite a bit different to water, even 5-10ft down.

Baitfish concentrations can be easily seen on most quality depth finders. This will give you a good starting point as to what depth you should be targeting. Structure in the form of logs, rocks and steep drop-offs all act like holding stations, especially for bigger fish. Being a home for them especially during daylight hours.

OUR RIVERS NEED US I’m sure by now most will have heard about fish kills in our western watersheds. I’m in no way an expert on the subject, but I have seen many

changes over the years on my wanderings.

I think we could all agree that things are nowhere near what they used to be. It’s taken a long time to get to the current situation and apathy from the angling masses, myself included, has played a part. I’m not proud of that, but it’s something I’ve already taken measures to address. We can all be a part of the solution, it’s all part of finding a better balance, but definitely one where the river’s health is first and foremost in everyone’s mind.

Hope to see you all on the water soon until then, tight lines!

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A smorgasbord of insect life is on the menu SNOWY MOUNTAINS

Anthony Bentley

The weather in recent weeks has been hot and dry. Thankfully, we have recently experienced some welcome cooler relief, and good rain has also come our way. To say the fishing has been tough would be a bit of an understatement, but there are still some opportunities for some good fishing if you know where to look.

First of all, the high country is definitely the place to be. The cooler temperatures of the higher altitude are both great for the fish and great for the angler. The smaller, higher streams are still producing

some good fish, although they are tucked away under banks and sitting in deeper water.

The lower river is running a little too warm for any real productive fishing during the daylight hours, and the lake is very warm around the edges. Lake fishing should be restricted to early mornings, or you can seek out some deeper water with some sinking lines and bigger flies and lures.

The insect life at the moment is a virtual smorgasbord of beetles, grasshoppers, mayflies, and just about any other type of bug you can imagine – so pick a favourite fly and fish it!

However, although bug

life is prolific, the warmer water and air temps are keeping the fish on the bottom in the cooler water, so it might be a good idea to get some heavier nymphs and lures down to the fish.

A Woolly Bugger or some tungsten Hare & Copper, PTNs and suchlike stripped in the deeper water will often get you into the action.

The next month should start seeing the weather cool (I live in hope?) and hopefully some more much-needed rain, and in turn some more fish should move from the lakes into the river system. Until the weather cools down and some more rain falls, we just have to try looking in the faster, cooler water to get some results.

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Desperately needed rain and hungry fish HUNTER VALLEY

Peter Phelps

Autumn cannot come fast enough this year. We have certainly had a good

summer roasting in the Hunter Valley. The local lakes are still going down at rapid rates and it is becoming scary how far this drought could possibly go. We are in dire need of

Soft plastics fished deep will catch a lot of golden perch this month.

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some heavy autumn rains and I have all my fingers crossed that this is the time it’s going to happen.

We haven’t reached these dam levels in the lakes since the last drought that ended around 2007. Right around the time that drought ended, we saw a lot of the bigger fish disappear and most likely die. A lot of the 40cm+ fish were paper thin and starving. The fish at the moment have all been down in weight and I hope we are not heading down this path again, as it took 3+ years to bounce back.

Unless we have some big rain events, March’s weather can be fairly predictable with consecutive glassed out days with little wind. Unfortunately, those hot days can still hang around until the end of the month and into April. The surface water temperatures will still be warm in the lakes so the majority of fish will be deep. Lure fishing around the full moon is renowned for being very tough this time of year but can be quite productive for the bait fishers.

Lake Glenbawn’s lure fishing can be hot and cold this month. There will still be a prominent deep bite going on. One of the main food sources in the Hunter Valley’s lakes are small baitfish. Whether it is smelt, gudgeons or minnows, these make up their primary diet, especially when the fish are deep. This is why a plastic is such a great lure for targeting these fish. Matching the hatch is important, so 2-3” in natural colours works well.

A plastic grub or paddletail is very life-like and works well on timid fish. Again, the vertical presentation will work best for fish between 30-80ft deep. Dropping your plastics straight down the transducer beam is the easiest way to target the fish holding deep.

This also helps you keep your lure in front of the fish’s nose for as long as possible.

Typically, around this time the fish hang around the front half of the lake.

Anywhere out deep, off points, bays, tree lines or flats will hold fish. If you are finding the fishing a little tough with the plastic, try going to something with a more aggressive action to try and draw a reaction strike. Burning or hoping blades and tail spinners may work or hopping an ice jig in their face.

A skirted jig is always worth a shot. Used on a spinning rod will allow the use of thin line to cut through the water and fish the jig down deeper. Heavy

Henry Smith took this bass on a topwater lure in the late afternoon. jigs above 1/2oz in weight allow for easy contact on the bottom, ultimately helping you to fish them out deeper, down rock walls and on flats where the fish could be holding.

If you are on the lake early enough it’s always worthwhile fishing surface for the first few hours. Try working lures quickly and covering ground to look for active fish. If you can find any weed that has lasted the summer heat and dropping water levels, these are good spots to slow down. Pick apart the holes and edges of the weed. Small poppers work well here, as their action will not move them far from the structure and create enough noise to bring them out of the weed. One good pop after it lands and a pause then shaking the popper on the spot, so it just vibrates on the surface looking like an insect can slay them.

Lake St Clair weed beds will have hopefully held up from the dropping water levels. This weed will still hold plenty of fish but getting these fish to bite is another thing. Low light is always the key when targeting shallow water fish. Early morning or late evening and overcast days will be the best. They will be keyed onto the smaller baitfish in the lake.

Small plastics, jerkbaits, crankbaits and topwater will be the key producers.

Once that sun gets up it’s time to move slightly deeper. Outside the weed beds in 15-30ft there should be plenty of fish. Generally smaller than their weed dwelling siblings, there will be enough to keep you interested. A slow rolled grub cast parallel to the weed works well and fools the larger of the fish in the schools. Mix it up with a hopped 1/4oz blade as well.

Also a jig spinner or beetle

spin rigged on a blade or lipless crankbait works wonders this time of year producing sheer numbers of fish. Concentrating on bottom contact and working your lure through the scattered fish is key to catching them.

If you are having no success on these shallower fish, try moving out into 40ft+ deep. There should be scattered fish out here that will eat a vertical slowed rolled grub. Tree hopping is

The bait fishing in both lakes will be at its finest this time of year. Fishing trees in around 30-40ft of water is a good place to start.

Live shrimp just hooked through the end of the tail is a great bait if you can get hold of some. Lightly weighted with just a swivel or a small ball sinker of a couple of grams and a no. 4 or no. 6 circle hook is the great setup. Slowly sink the shrimp down the trunk and with a loose drag let the fish eat the shrimp before winding the drag up and striking. The circle hook stops hooking them deep in the throat and any unnecessary killing of fish if they are of the chew.

The Hunter Region’s rivers and creeks are desperately in need of some rain. Some of the upper reaches and smaller creeks have stopped flowing with reports of dead fish in certain spots. March is a time where the bass should be spread throughout the system. Some fish will be moving down stream and some will be still higher in the upper districts.

As with most river fishing situations in the day, light hours casting close to structure is key. Small deep diving crankbaits,

Dom Jordan used a buzzbait and covered water in the lower Hunter River to find this chunky fish. a good way of locating deep fish. The limited amount of trees in St Clair can concentrate the fish around them. The tree gives you a visual target to go towards without having to spend time sounding around for fish. Moving from tree to tree and dropping your grub down 5-6 times around the whole tree will let you know if any fish are relating to timber. Golden perch love hanging off these submerged trees and this is also a deadly way of catching them.

spinnerbaits, bladed jigs, beetle spins and blades work well in stained water.

The vibration helps the fish locate the lure. If the water is clear try a plastic paddletail, swimbait or grub. In low light circumstances surface will still catch a lot of fish this month. Work paddlers, walkers, poppers and wakebaits in open water. Use weedless frogs or weedless surface plastics or buzz baits tight to cover and over weed beds for the best results.

Needing a good flush to get some good fish NEW ENGLAND RIVERS

Adam Townsend

As a new season now approaches us, fingers crossed it brings much better weather conditions.

and load boats with the very soft mud that is along the edge, so having a 4WD is a must, especially at the rate the dam has been dropping in recent times. There is a bitumen boat ramp located around near the point closest

Clear skinny water cod on fly and a new PB. It has been a very hot and dry year so far. Local impoundments are at levels that haven’t been seen for many years now, and the surrounding rivers aren’t any better.

Pindari Dam has dropped massively since the last report, and is now well down below the 8% mark. As the dam continues to fall it can be sometimes difficult to unload

to the dam wall, but a 4WD is definitely recommended for accessing at lower levels.

On the fishing side, there have been some good-sized silver perch and yellowbelly being caught around the deeper parts of the dam fishing closer to steeper drop-offs and in the thick trees. A boat or even a kayak is needed to access these better parts of the dam.

Pindari is well known for how awesome the fishing can be on its good days at these levels but personally, I still think we are a while away from seeing it back at its best again. After the irrigation has fully stopped and the dam starts to fill up again, then I think we will start seeing a lot more fish come out from sulking. They will start feeding up on the edges again, chasing all the new insect and bait life that flourished while the water levels were low.

Copeton Dam’s water levels have also dropped daily due to irrigation over the past few months, but this has finally started to ease up a bit. With water levels now down below 11% it leaves a lot of structure now out of water and along the dam’s edge, which also creates a lot of new fishing opportunities.

If the fishing action is as good as it was a few years ago, when the dam was at the same level, we should be in for an awesome season.

One of the better outcomes of the dam being so low is that a boat is not needed, and fishing off the banks can be very productive at times.

Whether you are walking along casting surface lures throughout the night, throwing swimbaits during the day or just soaking a bait, there is every chance

of catching that big Murray cod or golden perch that is actively cruising along in the shallows looking for an

Both the Severn and the Beardy rivers are at really low levels, with some parts not even flowing at all, leaving

known to suck the oxygen slowly from the river, which can often lead to big fish kills in no time.

A perfect hookup on the Johnny Everett Shrimp fly. easy meal at this time of year. However, if you would like to venture further around the dam in a boat, there are plenty of proper ramps around the dam to unload from to keep you out of trouble.

some holes partly stagnant and full of weeds. There have been a few holes reported to have mats of slime as thick as a few inches, which is never a good sign and will take some flash flooding to get rid of. These types of weeds are

We can only hope for some really big rains in the meantime to replenish the local impoundments and surrounding rivers, and to get the country out of the crazy drought we are stuck in.

Tight lines!

DAM LEVELS Dam............................... % Full

Dam............................... % Full

Dam Dec Jan Feb Blowering 48 36 30 Brogo 66 84 99 Burrendong 17 11 9 Burrinjuck 42 43 35 Carcoar 47 39 35 Chaffey 42 38 33 Clarrie Hall 99 99 92 Copeton 18 14 12 Dartmouth 73 70 65 Eucumbene 20 27 26 Glenbawn 61 58 57 Glenlyon 36 25 17

Dam Dec Jan Feb Glennies Creek 63 61 59 Hume 40 35 31 Jindabyne 66 83 83 Keepit 1 1 1 Lostock 99 96 99 Oberon 49 48 46 Pindari 37 22 9 Split Rock 5 4 4 Tantangara 41 50 45 Toonumbar 96 90 82 Windamere 39 37 35 Wyangala 46 42 37

(All levels correct at time of going to press. Dam levels can change at any time, so please check with local authorities to ensure safe boating and fishing.)

A quality night time fish off the surface.

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As close to perfect as it gets WAGGA WAGGA

Rhys Creed

It is the beginning of the best season of the year, for fishing and weather anyway. This is when I get excited! Every season has different fishing styles –

start to dwindle and the water temperature will come back to a more comfortable level, most likely sitting around 20°C. With irrigation demand slowing the river will start to drop, but we won’t see a huge drop until mid-April.

Lures and bait will work

tie up in shaded areas under willows or close to structure.

You’ll want to try and tie up above the snag and drop your bait down in front of the log.

This way the scent from your bait will carry right through, past all the fish, and they will move up to eat it if they are hungry.

taking photos, looking for snags or rocky patches that will hold fish when the water comes back up.

On the fishing front, March can be hit and miss.

You’ll want to fish in the low light periods, as there will still be a fair bit of heat around during the day.

As always, casting and trolling the rocky banks will keep you in with a good chance of landing a fish of any size. If you run a smaller lure (under 100mm) you’ll catch golden and cod.

The rocky banks near the wall on the Batlow side are worth a fish, as well as the islands near the dam wall.

There is still plenty of water and structure around.

Right up the other end of the dam is also worth a visit with the main river channel being exposed. There are some large rocky patches towards Yolde if you boat around from Yatching Point. Between these two locations there are some good rocky drop-offs and banks with lots of timber at this low level. Trolling

You can’t beat the colours of the mighty Australian native, the Murray cod! this creek bed in 4-8m it’s definitely worth fishing as it holds some giant cod.

TUMUT RIVER You can’t go past fishing the Tumut River either as it has been fishing so well

hopper imitations with the fly rod into the backwaters and watching trout come up and smash them.

This is still a good technique, but as the water drops there will be less and

Adam Smith with a Tumut River rainbow caught on an FTL Twin Spin. while summer has surface activity and trout on fly, winter is all about giant cod in the dams and spring is all gold.

Autumn means perfect weather, perfect water temps, low running rivers and extremely active natives. My favourite style of fishing, if you didn’t know already, is chasing natives in rivers, and

really well. If you love casting lures, spinnerbaits and hardbodies should be at the top of your list.

Spinnerbaits are great for casting tight to structure and allowing it to sink into the zone, with hardbodies working well in the slacker water as you can slowly search the bottom as you retrieve your lure.

Yabbies and worms work well. Take a shrimp pot with you and use aniseed soap or cat biscuits as bait and drop it in close to some reeds – there are plenty of shrimp around at the moment. Also, now is a great time to go chip some bardi grubs before they hatch and become moths. It’s a great bit of fun with the kids as well, you just need

The author with a solid river golden that hammered the Balista Dyno 90 in hybrid green colour. large lures along the edge of the river channel works really well. Also there is a creek that runs in from the flats on the south near Chucks Bay. If you can find

over the last few months.

Summer was incredible and it will continue to fish well as long as the bug activity stays around. We spent a lot of the summer casting

less backwaters for this style of fishing. This is when we go back to the spin rod with spinners, with soft plastics and hardbodies being the pick of the lures to use.

Tallis with an armful of cod that couldn’t resist the Mud Guts spinnerbait.

March marks the start of this great time of year.

MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER The Murrumbidgee River is at the top of my list for this month and the next few to come. This is good news for you because everyone in the Riverina can access it and the entire system will fish really well.

The extreme heat will 78

MARCH 2019

If you’ve never tried lure fishing before then a few brands that work well are the 70 and 90mm AC Invaders, Balista Dyno 90 and the Mud Guts 5/8oz. If you are fishing fast flowing water definitely opt for a willow blade on your spinnerbait rather than a Colorado, as they work better in the slower flowing water.

If you’re keen on bait fishing then make sure you

to be prepared for some hard work chipping.

BLOWERING DAM The lake is much lower than it has been over previous years at this time with little rainfall. This doesn’t mean poor fishing at all, it’s actually a great time to get up there and check out all the banks while they are low. We learn a lot about the dam by memorising or

The Takacat Inflatable is the go-to craft for this time of year.

FUN PAGE AND COMPETITIONS WORDS TO DESCRIBE YOUR CATCH

CRACKER WHOPPER DECENT IMPRESSIVE THUMPING NICE BEAUT DELICIOUS MONSTER PANSIZED MAMMOTH FIGHTER FLIGHTY

NIFTY DELIGHTFUL BEAUTIFUL CHUNKY AVERAGE ARMFUL HUMBLE ADMIRABLE SOLID QUALITY FEISTY ARM STRETCHING

DTD - REAL FISH OITA

Name: Address:

P/Code:

The first correct entry at the end of each month will win the prize pack.

SEND ENTRIES TO: NSW Find-a-word Competition, PO box 3172, Loganholme Qld 4129

NSW MARCH 2019

Phone (day):

BARRA COUNTRY by Brett Currie

The ‘Real Fish Oita’ is an incredible, award winning squid jig manufactured in Europe by leading Croatian company - DTD. Taking out the coveted ‘best new product’ in its class at the EFTTEX 2015 Expo in Warsaw, this wonderful range is now available in Australia through Dogtooth Distribution.

The product imitates real fish species. This coupled with DTD’s use of only the highest grade materials available, ensures great balance and results in superior catching ability. With the unique ‘fish parasite’ feature, aimed at luring predators in for an ‘easy kill’, these truly unique jigs are set to explode into the Australian market.

FEATURES - Double weight system with inner weight designed to produce sound while squid jig is in action.

COLOURS - 7 different designs representing popular fish species.

ADDITIONAL - Luminous body, fish parasite, great balance, sound effect, quality stainless steel hooks SIZES - 5 Sizes available www.dogtoothdistribution.com.au

SPOT THE

10 DIFFERENCES

GEORGE & NEV by Michael Hardy

ORIGINAL

FIND-A-WORD

Congratulations to, Wayne Cumming who was last month’s winner of the Find-aWord Competition!

Monthly winners receive a Fishing Monthly prize pack. Prize delivery can take 8 weeks. – NSWFM

SUBSCRIBER PRIZE

The subscriber prize winner for January is R Worth of Cootamundra, who won a pair of Mako polarised eyewear.

All subscribers are entered in the monthly subscriber prize draws. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – NSWFM

of Mondrook, B Hall of Balgownie, S Langstaff of Kellyville, P Henry of Empire Bay, G Sanson of Melrose Park, M Ryall of Singleton, D Wolhoff of Westleigh, G Waugh of Greystanes, B Hingston of Bateau Bay, G Smith of Werris Creek, P Muldoon of Balcolyn, M Muldoon of Caves Beach, D Chandler of Theodore, C Englebrecht of Wagga Wagga, A Hepper of Iluka, J Wilson of

Boronia, R Bland of Forster, L Bennett of Marrangaroo, T Ryan of Wagga Wagga, T Polley of Burrell Creek, H Morrison of Forbes , G Ridley of Warren, M Blake of Walcha, C West of Dapto, J Perfect of West Bathurst, J Paul of Inverell, C Wilson of Lake Albert, and C Rush of Gloucester.

Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks.

– NSWFM

LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS

FIND THE GAMAKATSU LOGO

© A Cordelia Adams original artwork. Instagram: clausdoesart

The answers to Find the Gamakatsu Logo for January were: 8, 12, 14, 20, 24, 35, 38, 43, 51, 56, 58, 70, 75, 87, 94. – NSWFM

This month’s Guess the Fish Answer: Tilapia

The Find the Gamakatsu Logo prize winners for January were: A Hoss of Darawark, B Gardner of Hughes, P King of Barden Ridge, A Sinclair of Lalor Park, J Cupitt of Sanctuary Point, E Simpson of Narrabri, C Portelli of Colyton, W Forbes of Nambucca Heads, C Carter of Richmond, C Diggins of Wanniassa, B Bailey of Ulladulla, D Allen of Gorokan, J Cross

GUESS THE FISH?

Answer: MARCH 2019

79

Recruiting for the future fishery SUNTAG

Stefan Sawynok

The Fitzroy River is an excellent case study of a system that has been through the good times and bad and come out the other side.

who for nearly 20 years have recorded and reported their catches. In this case the efforts were coordinated by Bill Sawynok, who pulled together the data and fed it back to the community. The missing link in this dataset was how many new fish were coming into the system – also known as recruits.

Looking at recruits requires a very different approach, fish

thin when it comes to the Fitzroy. The first question was how to detect recruits.

Electrofishing is a common method for finding recruits in freshwater, although the equipment is expensive and doesn’t work in brackish or salty water. Baby barra will head for off river sites that are only connected on large tides or flooding as this provides a safer environment to grow up

A typical small off river site.

Figure 1 – Barramundi catch rates from 2009-2011.

In 2007 a long drought period had reduced barramundi stocks to the point where the locals were thinking that a ban on all fishing was in order. The breaking of the drought led to three really good years of successful spawning and by 2011 the river was as close

10-15cm long don’t respond to line fishing and are found in different environments to adults, and can even move through several habitats as they grow.

There is every chance that fishers all over the country have detected recruits in their normal fishing life – especially

in. Barramundi have no issue eating juveniles, so getting away from the adults is a survival impetrative. This combination of challenges led to the use of the simplest of technologies, one most fishers would be familiar with – the cast net.

With the knowledge gaps

Bill Sawynok has refined his technique with over 10,000 casts. to full fish wise as it had ever been. Figure 1 provides a picture of catch rates in the past 10 years – from the peak around 2010/11 to today. In late 2015, local fishers were rewarded for their efforts in monitoring the Fitzroy with the declaration of a Net Free Zone. In 2017, this was strengthened when a voluntary code of practice was put in place to limit take home to maximum two barra, or two threadfin.

The only reason we have a good understanding of catch rates is because of the efforts of local fishers, 80

MARCH 2019

when using cast nets. That information is rarely recorded, but is vital to understanding where nursery areas are and if they need to be protected.

This article highlights the case for monitoring recruitment and how it can play into long term planning of the fishery.

LOOKING FOR RECRUITS IN THE EARLY DAYS The search for barramundi recruits started in earnest in 1999. At that time while there were some things known about barramundi recruitment, the details were

on when barramundi would be best found, surveys were conducted every month. A small number of Barramundi recruits were found in that first year, but that was only a fraction of the fish and other species detected.

LESSONS ON THE DRIVERS FOR RECRUITMENT One of the first lessons from the all year-round surveys – they aren’t needed.

The original reason for doing all round surveys is that nobody was sure when recruits would appear, it turned out that no recruits

were detected past April in cast nets, though from that point they were caught on line. This is down to baby barra entering the off river areas between December and February, then growing fast and moving to new areas in the site. Once they were bigger than 200mm, they were able to be targeted successfully with small lures. The most important recruitment site around Rockhampton is 12 Mile Creek. In good years where recruitment is strong, it’s not uncommon for the boys that tag to go down there with light gear and catch 50 fish in a session.

This first lesson was critical. As well as reducing the timeframes for surveys, the short window provided the first clues as to the environmental factors. Over the early 2000s a pattern of recruitment appeared, at the same time thanks to the internet, environmental data became more freely available. For the first time, it was possible to nail down the major environmental drivers Here is a summary of the complex interactions in the environment that need to line up River flows are critical, particularly low flows from September on. If there are significant fresh flows before November that drops the salinity in the estuary and can completely disrupt spawning.

Rainfall in January/ February is crucial to provide a signal to new recruits where the off river sites are, following the flush of freshwater.

At the best site (12 Mile Creek) recruits make it into the system on the king tides.

Higher river flows or flooding in January and February help recruits make it into other offsite locations.

Freshwater is the major driver of the system, but quantity alone doesn’t get you there – timing is critical.

Overall there are more ways

things can go wrong than right and barramundi have adapted by being super productive during the bad times. That’s why the Fitzroy went from its worst point in living memory in 2007 to the best point in 2010/11.

We have compiled those rules into a ‘traffic lights’ system. Lots of green lights means better conditions for recruitment.

PREDATION, FISH KILLS AND OBSTRUCTIONS Net free zones are a good thing right? There is no doubt that the declaration of a Net Free Zone in late 2015 has been a positive for

larger fish, the recruits have had a harder time. In 2017 recruitment surveys detected recruits in key locations within the Fitzroy River, but unlike prior years those recruits were not caught on line later on. 2018 followed a similar pattern. As the population of larger fish has stabilised and is now free to move throughout the system, recruits are now subject to predation.

In turn, this makes off river sites even more important.

In 2018 conditions in the 12 Mile worsened when much-needed rain failed to eventuate. Despite a huge effort to remove fish from

SPECIES SURVEYED IN 1999 The table below provides a summary of all the species present in surveys in 1999 SAND CRAB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 MANGROVE JACK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 BARRAMUNDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 SAND WHITING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 FRESHWATER SHRIMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 FLATTAIL MULLET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536 BONY BREAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 THREADFIN SILVERBIDDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SOUTHERN ANCHOVY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 WHITING SPP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 SPOTTED SCAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 CRESCENT GRUNTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 RAINBOWFISH SPP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 YELLOWFIN BREAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 GUDGEON SPP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 BARTAIL FLATHEAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 COMMON TOADFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 TROUT GUDGEON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LARGETOOTH FLOUNDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 SNUBNOSE GARFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 SUNFISH SPP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 DIAMONDFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 SILVER MOONFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 SEA MULLET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 TARPON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 SOUTHERN HERRING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 GOLDSPOT MULLET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 COMMON SILVERBIDDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 MOUTH ALMIGHTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 GOLDLINED RABBITFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 GIANT HERRING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 STRIPED SCAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 FLYSPECKLED HARDYHEAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 COMMON PONYFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 PIKEY BREAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 SPANGLED PERCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 MILKFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 BANANA PRAWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 ESTUARY GLASSFISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Tim Mulhall with a metre long example of what is waiting for recruits! the system, which removed around 300 barramundi, there was a near total fish kill. Unlike the recent kills in NSW, this was not down to man-made factors, this was simply the natural cycle of droughts taking hold.

In a cruel twist of fate, an act intended to improve the fishery has made life more difficult for recruits. The lower survival rate makes them more susceptible to major events like fish kills.

The other factor to consider is the number of barriers that obstruct the movement of smaller fish.

In the Rockhampton region there are no less than 1200 such barriers, from roads to agricultural structures and while there has been some work done to improve fish passage, the task of mediating even just the key sites is near impossible. None the less this makes life more difficult for recruits seeking safety.

reasonably accurate but have wide bounds of error. Over the past 18 months, month attempts have been made to create a computer based predictive model and after many failures there is finally a solid model. Figure 2 shows the accuracy of three separate models verses the actual result.

These models allow for the input of the likely weather conditions, river flows and information on spawning stocks and predators at the beginning of the year to predict where recruitment will end up. Forewarned is forearmed.

The combination of prediction and monitoring enables local agencies to know in advance if there is something going on that need’s urgent attention.

One of the immediate befits has been in predicting fish kills. Through the models the potential for a fish kill is

Above: Juvenile barramundi taken during a recruitment monitoring session.

Below: Juvenile mangrove jacks are also found when monitoring barramundi stocks.

So, what do we do?

At this stage it’s too early for interventions, we need a couple years more monitoring to see if things settle out and come to a new balance.

GOING HIGH TECH IN PREDICTING RECRUITMENT As the understanding of recruitment improved, new tools were developed to predict recruitment. These hand-crafted models were

known months in advance and thus preparations can be made to move fish before things become critical.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE The amazing part of this process is that all the progress has been completed with recreational fishers doing the legwork both in the field and behind the computer. In recent years this work has been extended to new species including

yellowfin and pikey bream, barred javelin and king threadfin.

The combination of predictive models and low-cost monitoring are helping to identify the challenges for the next generation of recruits and more than once in twenty years has informed actions to improve habitats and fish passage.

The future fishery needs new recruits. Recreational fishers can play a serious role, especially in the estuary, helping to understand the things that matter most to ensuring long-term stable fish populations.

Figure 2 – Comparing the computer models verses the actual recruitment.

Left: Juvenile barred javelin recruitment, as with many other species, is affected by rainfall.

Right: Juvenile flathead regularly turn up in recruitment monitoring hauls.

YEAR

FITZROY RIVER

Monthly flow jan >0.5GL

Monthly flow feb >1.0GL

Wet season flow DecMar >2.0GL

1999

1.15

0.68

2000

0.06

2001

12 MILE

Max flow month

Low flow previous Sep-Oct <0.5GL

12 mile rain jan >100mm

12 mile rain feb >100mm

3.32

Jan

3.39

101

125

0.4

0.75

Feb

0

51

75

0.36

0.54

1.32

Feb

0

141

64

2002

0.34

0.1

0.47

Jan

0

61

68

2003

0

1.73

2.59

Feb

0

0

244

2004

0.53

0.51

0.62

Jan

0

165

92

2005

0.34

0.27

0.62

Jan

0

143

78

2006

0.04

0.01

0.23

Apr

0

61

55

2007

0.03

0.76

0.85

Feb

0

46

20

2008

4.00

7.59

12.16

Feb

0.04

80

227

2009

0.25

1.20

1.92

Feb

0.03

163

180

2010

0.12

4.46

10.50

Mar

0

64

313

2011

15.5

1.74

32.84

Mar

2.08

83

73

2012

0.08

2.12

5.73

Mar

0.09

84

63

2013

3.25

2.80

8.08

Jan

0.04

750

291

2014

0.02

0.79

0.96

Feb

0

52

199

2015

0.58

1.26

2.64

Feb

0.01

227

314

2016

0

1.88

2.24

Feb

0

41

133

2017

0.34

0.06

1.09

Apr

0.13

142

38

2018

0.02

0.13

0.65

Mar

0.19

36

151

2019

0 Conditions outside range Conditions close to range Conditions within range MARCH 2019

81

Trades, Services, Charter COFFS COAST

HOLIDAY RENTAL MACLEAY VALLEY COAST

CRESCENT HEAD HOLIDAY RENTALS

SYDNEY

Freshest Fishing Tours 0421 405 221 Coffs Coast Sport Fishing 0434 517 683 Trial Bay Fishing Charters, 0427 256 556

Penrith Marine (02) 4731 6250 Cohoe Marine Products (Sydney) (02) 9519 3575 Blakes Marine (02) 4577 6699 Watersports Marine (02) 9676 1400 Marina Bayside (02) 9524 0044 Shannons Outboards (02) 9482 2638 Hi Tech Marine (02) 4256 6135 TR Marine World (02) 4577 3522

www.southwestrocksfishingadventures.com.au

CANBERRA/ACT For all your accommodation needs, house, units & townhouses for every budget. Contact the friendly team at Crescent Head Real Estate for your free holiday brochure.

www.crescentheadholidayrentals.com.au

Email: holiday@crescentheadrealestate.com.au 6 MAIN ST, CRESCENT HEAD NSW 2440

Phone: 02 6566 0500

PORT & REEF SFISHING GAME ERS

CHART

H2O Marine (02) 6280 0555 Aussie Boat Sales ACT & NSW 0433 531 226 u Mid week packages from $420 p/p* u Weekend packages from $320 p/p*

*Minimum 6 people

On board our fully equiped 38ft Randell TRIFECTA Contact: David Hayman (Stumpee) Mobile: 0411 096 717 info@swrcharters.com.au

MACQUARIE COAST

Crescent Head Holiday Rentals (02) 6566 0500

Castaway Estuary Charters 0427 239 650

HUNTER COAST

TWEED/BYRON COAST Tweed Coast Marine (07) 5524 8877 Ballina Marineland (02) 6686 2669

MACQUARIE COAST Graham Barclay Marine (02) 6554 5866 Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

SYDNEY

Wangi Point Lakeside Holiday Park (02) 4975 1889

Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters (02) 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351 Sydney Sportfishing Adventures 0405 196 253 Ocean Hunter Sports Fishing 0414 906 569

Blacksmiths Holiday Park (02) 4971 2858

CENTRAL COAST

QUEENSLAND

Central Coast Holiday Parks 1800 241 342

Mikat Cruises Fishing Charters Swains & Coral Sea 0427 125 727

ILLAWARRA COAST

MIKAT CRUISES

Riviera Caravan Park, St George’s Basin (02) 4441 2112

FRESHWATER Burrinjuck Waters State Park (02) 6227 8114 Grabine Lakeside State Park (02) 4835 2345

MINN REPAIRS & SERVICING

Alpine Tourist Park (02) 6454 2438 www.alpinetouristpark.com.au Milani Trout Cottages (02) 6775 5735 www.milanitroutcottages.com Wyangala Waters State Park (02) 6345 0877

THE FISHING EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!

Chifley Dam Cabins 1800 68 1000

• Reef, Deep Sea and Sport Fishing • Swains, Samurez, Cap Bunker Group • Dories available • LUXURY 20m Cat. New V8 Scanias.

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• Air conditioned and fast (cruise up to 16 knots) • Professional crew (over 22 years experience) • Cater for groups up to 12 people from 3 to 10 days • BYO or fully licenced bar • Desalinate unit • Trips designed to suit your requirements

FISH TAXIDERMY Fish Taxidermist 0428 544 841

CHARTER BOATS

Dave Gaden’s Yamba • Deep Sea

REEL TIME FISHING CHARTERS

SATELLITE TV INSTALLED Phone: 0427 125 727 I Fax: (07) 4972 1759 michael@mikat.com.au

www.mikat.com.au FISHING GUIDES

SYDNEY The Boat Pimpers (Sydney) (02) 9792 7799

ILLAWARRA COAST EDEN COAST

OPEN 7 DAYS

YAMBA’S LARGEST TACKLE STORE • Chandlery • Boat Sales • Ice & Gas • Bait & Tackle • Trailers Sales & Parts • Charter Bookings Ph: 6646 1994 or 0428 231 962 Email: dave@gaden.com.au

Reel Time Fishing Charters Yamba 0428 231 962

Salt Away 1800 091 172 www.salt-away.com.au

Bay & Basin Sportsfishing 0413 610 832

MARINA BOAT & TACKLE, YAMBA MARINA

CLARENCE COAST

MODIFICATIONS & REPAIRS // BOAT & TRAILER

Fish Port Stephens Estuary Charters 0434 370 687

Phone Dave today: www.fishingyamba.com.au 0428 231 962

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PORT STEPHENS

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• Pickup from Yamba Marina or Iluka ferry wharf

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KAYAK DEALERS The Life Aquatic - Mona Vale – (02) 9979 1590 Australian Bass Angler - Penrith – (02) 4721 0455 Hunts Marine - Yallah – (02) 4284 0444 Bunyips Great Outdoors - Lismore – (02) 6622 1137 Maclean Outdoors - MacLean – (02) 6645 1120 Wetspot Watersports -Fyshwick – (02) 6239 1323 Graham Barclay Marine – Forster – (02) 6554 5866 Hunter Water Sports - Belmont – (02) 4947 7899 Totally Immersed Watersports - Nowra (02) 4421 5936 Hunts Marine - Batemans Bay – (02) 4472 2612 Compleat Angler – Merimbula – (02) 6495 3985

MARINE MECHANICS COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour Marine (02) 6652 4722 North Coast Boating Centre (02) 6655 7700 Jetty Boating (02) 6651 4002

$449 USD (includes shipping)

www.hydrowaveaustralia.com

Boat Wrap Specialist www.xfactorsigns.com

This section in NSW Fishing Monthly consolidates the trades and services in your area that are relevant to your fishing and boating. Whether you’re a local looking for more options or a travelling angler fishing around the state, this guide will direct you to reputable businesses in the area you’re searching.

82

MARCH 2019

“

Boats & Guided Fishing Tours Directory

ba Prawn Blade BAITs”& TACKLE “Yam CLARENCE

YAMBA BAIT & TACKLE “Yamba’s Leading Tackle Shop” “IN THE MAIN STREET” Shop 3, 8 Yamba St, Yamba

02 6646 1514

ONLINE TACKLE PRODUCTS

www.fishin.com.au TOURNAMENT TACKLE STORE

OPEN 7 DAYS

•

A U S T R A L I A

ZX BLADES

Margay 2017

ZMAN GRUBZ CRANKA CRABS

“The Home of Leavey Lures” • Stocking all Major Brands • Experienced Local Knowledge • Tournament Bream Gear in Stock • Snorkelling gear in stock

BENT MINNOWS

JACKALL CHUBBY

FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING

Drop in to see Mick & Kelly

• • • •

Marina Boat and Tackle (02) 6646 1994

$49,990

17’7” • Single axle Basscat trailer 115 hp Mercury 4 stroke 24v electric motor (Minn Kota or Motor Guide) 2 x sounders (Humminbird 597cxi HD Di or Lowrance HDS 5)

Yamba Bait & Tackle (02) 6646 1514

0425 230 964 – info@fishin.com.au

Wooli Bait & Tackle (02) 6649 7100

COFFS COAST Compleat Angler Kempsey (02) 6562 5307

Pantera II 2017

SHOP 18, 29 KIORA RD MIRANDA NSW 2228

MOTackle (02) 6652 4611 or www.motackle.com.au

www.fishin.com.au 0425 230 964

Rocks Marine Bait & Tackle South West Rocks (02) 6566 6726

Blue Bottle Fishing 0409 333 380 or www.bluebottlefishing.com MOTackle (02) 6652 4611 or www.motackle.com.au

MACQUARIE COAST Ned Kelly Bait n Tackle Port Macquarie (02) 6583 8318 Graham Barclay Marine (02) 6554 5866 Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

SAMPLE AD - BUSINESS NAME This is where your copy will appear.

You will have approximately 30 words within a 5x2 ad size.

Adrenalin Flies www.adrenalinflies.com.au Anglers Warehouse www.anglerswarehouse.com.au

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83

NSW Tides

2019 2019 Local Time

SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) – NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) – LONG NEW SOUTH WALES LAT 33° 51’ S 151° 14’ E

Time

1 1 0541 1208 TU

TU 1759 2358

LAT 33° 51’ S LONG 151° 14’ E Times and Heights of High and Low Waters Times and Heights of High and Low Waters MARCH FEBRUARY JANUARY MARCH FEBRUARY JANUARY Time m Time m Time Time m Time m Time m m 0541 1.57 1208 0.58 1759 1.33 2358 0.50 0633 1.63 1310 0.52 1857 1.30

Time m 0441 1.47 1.57 1.47 0.67 0.58 0441 1100 0.67 1.28 1.33 1100 WE 1652 1.28 0.53 FR WE 1652 2300 0.50 2300 0.53 0536 1.57 1.63 1.57 0.58 0.52 0536 1208 0.58 1.30 1.30 1208 TH 1800 1.30 0.50 TH 1800 2355 SA 2355 0.50 0630 1.69 0.51 1.69 0.45 1.69 0630 1309 0.45 1.34 0.47 1309 FR 1902 FR 1902 1.34 SU 1.30

16 16

Time

1 1 0020 0700 FR 1346 1935

17 17

2 2

0044 0.51 18 3 3 0720 1.69 18 1400

3 3

2 2

0633 1310 WE WE 1857

0044 0720 TH TH 1400 1947

4 4

0127 0803 FR FR 1445 2032

5 5 0207 0844 SA

SA 1523 2114

6 6 0245 0920 SU

SU 1600 2152

7 7 0323 0957 MO

MO 1635 2230

8 8 0400 1031 TU

TU 1710 2306

9 9

0437 1107 WE WE 1745 2344

10 10 0516 1143 TH TH 1821

0.47 1947 1.30 0127 0.52 0803 1.73 1445 0.42 2032 1.31 0207 0.52 0844 1.76 1523 0.39 2114 1.32 0245 0.52 0920 1.77 1600 0.37 2152 1.32 0323 0.53 0957 1.77 1635 0.37 2230 1.32 0400 0.54 1031 1.75 1710 0.38 2306 1.32 0437 0.56 1107 1.72 1745 0.41 2344 1.31 0516 0.59 1143 1.67 1821 0.44 0024

0048 0.46 0.52 0.46 1.82 1.73 0048 0722 1.82 0.33 0.42 0722 SA 1403 0.33 1.39 SA 1403 1959 MO 1.31 1959 1.39 0141 0.40 0.52 0.40 1.93 1.76 0141 0814 1.93 0.22 0.39 0814 SU 1455 0.22 1.45 SU 1455 2052 TU 1.32 2052 1.45 0.52 0233 0.36 0.36 2.02 1.77 0233 0905 2.02 0.14 0.37 0905 MO 1545 0.14 1.49 MO 1545 2145 WE 1.32 2145 1.49 0.53 0326 0.32 0.32 2.07 1.77 0326 0956 2.07 0.10 0.37 0956 TU 1635 0.10 1.52 TU 1635 2236 TH 1.32 2236 1.52 0.54 0419 0.32 0.32 2.05 1.75 0419 1047 2.05 0.12 0.38 1047 WE 1724 0.12 1.53 WE 1724 2328 FR 1.32 2328 1.53 0.56 0514 0.34 0.34 1.98 1.72 0514 1138 1.98 0.17 0.41 1138 TH 1813 TH 1813 0.17 SA 1.31

19 19

12 12

0151 0824 SU 1503 2056

4 4 0230 0901 MO

20 20

1537 2131

5 5 0306 0936 TU

21 21

1610 2205

6 6 0343 1010 WE

22 22

1642 2239

7 7 0419 1044 TH

23 23

1713 2314

8 8 0457 1118 FR

24 24

1745 2349

9 9 0536 1153 SA 1818

0.59

0020 1.53

0029

FR 1229 1901 1.31 0.62 0114 1.60 0708 SA SA 1321 0.47 1950 1.31 0.66 0210 1.53 0812 SU SU 1416 0.50 2041 1.32 0.70 0308 1.44 0921 MO MO 1518 0.53 2134 1.34 0.73 0410 1.37 1037 TU TU 1628 0.54 2230 1.39 0.72 0511 1.31 1152 WE WE 1740 0.55 2327

1.85 1901 0.26 0114 1.52 0708 0.47 1321 1.68 1950 0.36 0210 1.51 0812 0.54 1416 1.51 2041 0.45 0308 1.50 0921 0.61 1518 1.36 2134 0.53 0410 1.51 1037 0.63 1628 1.25 2230 0.59 0511 1.54 1152 0.61 1740 1.21 2327 0.61 0608 1.58 1256 0.57 1843 1.21

1.52 1854 0.48 0111 1.42 0707 0.63 1313 1.43 1932 0.53 0159 1.43 0802 0.66 1402 1.34 2018 0.57 0253 1.45 0909 0.67 1505 1.27 2115 0.60 0355 1.49 1028 0.64 1621 1.23 2220 0.60 0500 1.57 1144 0.56 1741 1.25 2328 0.57

Time m 0603 1.69 0.61 1.69 0.43 1.62 0603 1250 0.43 1.32 0.51 1250 SA 1848 FR SA 1848 1.32 1.24

16 16

27 27

13 13

28 28

14 14

29 29

15 15

30 30 31 31 0608 1256 TH TH 1843

SU 1230 0.26 1854 1.52 0.47 0111 1.68 0707 MO MO 1313 0.36 1932 1.51 0.54 0159 1.51 0802 TU TU 1402 0.45 2018 1.50 0.61 0253 1.36 0909 WE WE 1505 0.53 2115 1.51 0.63 0355 1.25 1028 TH TH 1621 0.59 2220 1.54 0.61 0500 1.21 1144 FR FR 1741 0.61 2328 1.58 0.57 1.21

11 11 12 12

13 13 14 14

15 15

Time

1 1 0537 1230 FR

0030 0.50 0.59 0.50 1.81 1.66 0030 0702 1.81 0.31 0.46 0702 SU 1346 0.31 1.41 SU 1346 1945 SA 1.28 1945 1.41 0128 0.41 0.56 0.41 1.93 1.70 0128 0757 1.93 0.20 0.41 0757 MO 1438 0.20 1.50 MO 1438 2038 SU 1.32 2038 1.50 0222 0.33 0.53 0.33 2.01 1.73 0222 0849 2.01 0.13 0.39 0849 TU 1527 0.13 1.57 TU 1527 2128 MO 1.35 2128 1.57 0.51 0315 0.28 0.28 2.04 1.74 0315 0941 2.04 0.10 0.37 0941 WE 1614 0.10 1.62 TU WE 1614 2216 1.38 2216 1.62 0.50 0408 0.26 0.26 2.01 1.74 0408 1030 2.01 0.13 0.37 1030 TH 1659 0.13 1.65 WE TH 1659 2305 1.39 2305 1.65 0.50 0501 0.28 0.28 1.91 1.71 0501 1120 1.91 0.20 0.38 1120 FR 1744 0.20 1.65 FR 1744 2354 TH 1.40 2354 1.65 0.51 0556 0.33 0.33 1.76 1.67 0556 1210 1.76 0.31 0.41 1210 SA 1828 SA 1828 0.31 FR 1.41

1827 2358

m 0537 1.51 1230 0.60 1827 1.19 2358 0.69 0633 1.55 1320 0.54 1916 1.26

m Time m 0432 1.60 1.51 1.60 0.52 0.60 0432 1124 0.52 1.27 1.19 1124 SA 1730 1.27 0.63 MO SA 1730 2310 0.69 2310 0.63 0542 1.70 1.55 1.70 0.41 0.54 0542 1230 0.41 1.37 1.26 1230 SU 1836 SU 1836 1.37 TU

16 16

18 18

0017 0051 0.65 0.54 0.65 1.60 0017 18 3 0644 0720 3 1400 1.81 1.60 18 0.49 0644 MO 1325

19 19 20 20

21 21 22 22

23 23

4 4 0135 0800 MO

26 26

27 27 28 28

1.57 0.56 1.25 0.57

1435 2033

5 5 0215 0837 TU 1507 2106

6 6 0250 0912 WE 1538 2138

7 7 0326 0945 TH 1608 2210

8 8 0401 1019 FR

0.54 0043 1.63 1.63 0.42 1.60 0043 0652 0.42 1.58 0.44 0652 SU 1300 1.58 0.43 SU 1300 1912 SA 1912 0.43 1.41 0134 1.59 1.59 0.51 0.58 0134 0753 0.51 1.41 1.52 0753 MO 1353 1.41 0.54 MO 1353 1958 SU 0.48 1958 0.54 1.42 0229 1.55 1.55 0.59 0.63 0229 0900 0.59 1.27 1.43 0900 TU 1452 1.27 0.64 MO TU 1452 2048 0.53 2048 0.64 1.43 0329 1.51 1.51 0.64 0.66 0329 1013 0.64 1.18 1.34 1013 WE 1603 1.18 0.70 TU WE 1603 2149 0.57 2149 0.70 0434 1.50 1.45 1.50 0.64 0.67 0434 1127 0.64 1.16 1.27 1127 TH 1720 1.16 0.72 WE TH 1720 2256 0.60 2256 0.72 1.49 0.64 1.23 TH 0.60

24 24

0051 0720 SU 1400 1958

1638 2243

9 9 0439 1054 SA 1708 2317

10 10 0518 1130 SU 1740 2354

11 11 0601 1208 MO 1814

0.49 1958 1.32 0135 0.59 0800 1.64 1435 0.44 2033 1.38 0215 0.54 0837 1.68 1507 0.41 2106 1.43 0250 0.50 0912 1.70 1538 0.39 2138 1.47 0326 0.47 0945 1.70 1608 0.38 2210 1.50 0401 0.46 1019 1.67 1638 0.39 2243 1.53 0439 0.47 1054 1.63 1708 0.41 2317 1.55 0518 0.49 1130 1.57 1740 0.45 2354 1.56 0601 0.52 1208 1.49 1814 0.50 0034

17 17

MO 1325 1.32 1930 0.59 1.64 0116 0.44 0739 TU TU 1415 1.38 2020 0.54 1.68 0212 0.41 0831 WE WE 1501 1.43 2108 0.50 1.70 0304 0.39 0922 TH TH 1545 1.47 2154 0.47 1.70 0357 0.38 1012 FR FR 1629 1.50 2240 0.46 1.67 0448 0.39 1100 SA SA 1710 1.53 2326 0.47 1.63 0542 0.41 1149 SU SU 1751 1.55

19 19 20 20 21 21

22 22

23 23 24 24 0.49

25 1.57 0011 25 0.45 0635 MO MO 1239 1.56 1831 0.52 1.49 0058 0.50 0732 TU TU 1330 1914 1.56 0.56 0147 1.40 0834 WE WE 1428 0.56 2003 1.55 0.60 0244 1.31 0941 TH TH 1536 0.62 2105 1.54 0.62 0348 1.24 1048 FR FR 1652 0.67 2219 1.55 0.60 0456 1.22 1149 SA SA 1758 0.68 2329

26 26

1.56 12 0648 27 12 0034 0648 0.56 27 TU 1251 1251 1852 1.40 1852 0.56 0120 0120 0744 1.55 0744 0.60 WE 1343 1343 1939 1.31 1939 0.62 0215 0215 0850 1.54 0850 0.62 TH 1447 1447 2038 1.24 2038 0.67 0319 0319 1008 1.55 1008 1609 FR 0.60 1.22 FR 1609 2154 2154 0.68

13 13

28 28

14 14

29 29

15 15

30 30 31 31 0556 1240 SU SU 1847

1321 1928

2 2

2 2

0633 1320 SA 1916

Time

1 1 0026 0645 MO

17 17

1.53 0.39 0029 1.41 25 0610 10 0619 25 1.67 0020 25 10 0619 0.39 1.85 0.58 25 0.44 0610 FR 1229 SU 1230

1.31 11 0559 26 11 0024 0559 0.62 26 FR 1220 1.60 FR 1220 1900 1900 0.47 0107 0107 0645 1.31 0645 0.66 SA 1300 1.53 SA 1300 1940 1940 0.50 0156 0156 0736 1.32 0736 0.70 SU 1345 1.44 SU 1345 2024 2024 0.53 0247 0247 0836 1.34 0836 0.73 MO 1439 1.37 MO 1439 2113 2113 0.54 0344 0344 0945 1.39 0945 1542 TU 0.72 1.31 TU 1542 2205 2205 0.55

0108 0745 SA 1428 2018

m 0020 0.61 0700 1.62 1346 0.51 1935 1.24 0108 0.59 0745 1.66 1428 0.46 2018 1.28 0151 0.56 0824 1.70 1503 0.41 2056 1.32 0230 0.53 0901 1.73 1537 0.39 2131 1.35 0306 0.51 0936 1.74 1610 0.37 2205 1.38 0343 0.50 1010 1.74 1642 0.37 2239 1.39 0419 0.50 1044 1.71 1713 0.38 2314 1.40 0457 0.51 1118 1.67 1745 0.41 2349 1.41 0536 0.54 1153 1.60 1818 0.44

0113 0728 TU 1357 2003

0.54 1.81 0153 0.30 0806 WE 0.30 1.48 WE 1430 1930 1.48 2036 0116 0.43 0.43 1.90 0230 0739 1.90 0.22 0842 1415 TH 0.22 1.59 TH 1500 2020 2107 1.59 0212 0.34 0.34 1.95 0307 0831 1.95 0.17 0916 1501 FR 0.17 1.68 FR 1530 2108 2140 1.68 0304 0.27 0.27 1.95 0344 0922 1.95 0.17 0952 1545 SA 0.17 1.75 SA 1600 2154 1.75 2213 0357 0.25 0.25 1.88 0323 1012 1.88 0.22 0930 1629 SU 0.22 1.78 SU 1531 2240 1.78 2148 0448 0.27 0.27 1.77 0404 1100 1.77 0.30 1009 1710 MO 0.30 1.78 MO 1605 2326 1.78 2226 0542 0.33 0.33 1.63 0448 1149 1.63 0.41 1052 1751 TU 0.41 TU 1642 2307 0011 1.74 1.74 0.42 0538 0635 0.42 1.47 1141 1239 WE 1.47 0.53 WE 1724 1831 2355 0.53 0058 1.68 1.68 0.51 0635 0732 0.51 1.33 1237 1330 TH 1.33 0.64 TH 1815 1914 0.64 0147 1.60 1.60 0.59 0050 0834 0.59 1.23 0742 1428 FR 1.23 0.74 FR 1345 2003 0.74 1920 0244 1.53 1.53 0.64 0158 0941 0.64 1.17 0856 1536 SA 1.17 0.80 SA 1503 2105 0.80 2039 0348 1.49 1.49 0.65 0312 1048 0.65 1.18 1005 1652 SU 1.18 0.81 SU 1618 2219 0.81 2158 0456 1.48 1.48 0.63 0422 1149 0.63 1.23 1105 1758 MO 1.23 0.78 MO 1719 2329 0.78 2305 0556 1.51 1.51 0.58 1240 0.58 1.30 1847 1.30

3 3 4 4

5 5 6 6

7 7 8 8

9 9

10 10

11 11

Local Time APRIL APRIL Time Time m

m 0026 0.72 0645 1.55 1321 0.53 1928 1.38 0113 0.65 0728 1.59 1357 0.48 2003 1.45 0153 0.58 0806 1.63 1430 0.45 2036 1.52 0230 0.53 0842 1.64 1500 0.43 2107 1.58 0307 0.48 0916 1.64 1530 0.42 2140 1.64 0344 0.46 0952 1.62 1600 0.43 2213 1.68 0323 0.45 0930 1.58 1531 0.46 2148 1.71 0404 0.45 1009 1.52 1605 0.50 2226 1.72 0448 0.48 1052 1.45 1642 0.56 2307 1.71 0538 0.51 1141 1.37 1724 0.62 2355 1.68 0635 0.54 1237 1.30 1815 0.69 0050

m Time m 0524 1.78 0.72 1.78 0.33 1.55 0524 1159 0.33 1.58 0.53 1159 TU 1812 TU 1812 1.58 1.38

16 16

0.65 0005 0.47 0.47 1.83 1.59 0005 0619 1.83 0.28 0.48 0619 WE 1246 0.28 1.70 WE 1246 1900 1.45 1900 1.70 0.58 0100 0.38 0.38 1.84 1.63 0100 0712 1.84 0.27 0.45 0712 TH 1331 0.27 1.79 TH 1331 1945 1.52 1945 1.79 0.53 0154 0.32 0.32 1.80 1.64 0154 0802 1.80 0.29 0.43 0802 FR 1414 0.29 1.86 FR 1414 2030 1.58 2030 1.86 0245 0.30 0.48 0.30 1.72 1.64 0245 0851 1.72 0.35 0.42 0851 SA 1455 0.35 1.88 SA 1455 2114 1.64 2114 1.88 0.46 0335 0.32 0.32 1.62 1.62 0335 0940 1.62 0.44 0.43 0940 SU 1534 0.44 1.87 SU 1534 2157 1.68 2157 1.87 0426 0.37 0.45 0.37 1.50 1.58 0426 1029 1.50 0.53 0.46 1029 MO 1614 0.53 1.82 MO 1614 2240 1.71 2240 1.82 0.45 0516 0.44 0.44 1.39 1.52 0516 1116 1.39 0.63 0.50 1116 TU 1653 0.63 1.75 TU 1653 2323 1.72 2323 1.75 0609 0.52 0.48 0.52 1.30 1.45 0609 1206 1.30 0.72 0.56 1206 WE 1734 WE 1734 0.72 1.71

17 17

18 18 19 19 20 20

21 21

22 22

23 23 24 24 0.51

TH 1300 1.68 1822 0.54 1.30 0058 0.69 0802 FR FR 1401 1921 1.65 0.56 0157 1.26 0901 SA SA 1510 0.73 2033 1.63 0.54 0303 1.27 0958 SU SU 1613 0.73 2146 1.66 0.48 0406 1.35 1048 MO MO 1705 0.68 2249 1.72 0.41 0500 1.46 1131 TU TU 1747 0.58 2342

26 26

1.65 27 12 12 0742 0.56 27 1345

13 13 14 14 15 15

1.26 1920 0.73 0158 1.63 0856 0.54 1503 1.27 2039 0.73 0312 1.66 1005 0.48 1618 1.35 2158 0.68 0422 1.72 1105 0.41 1719 1.46 2305 0.58

0008 1.66 0.59 1.24 1.24 0.80 1822 0.80 0058 1.58 1.58 0.64 0802 0.64 1.21 1401 1.21 0.85 1921 0.85 0157 1.51 1.51 0.66 0901 0.66 1.23 1510 1.23 0.87 2033 0.87 0303 1.48 1.48 0.64 0958 0.64 1.28 1613 1.28 0.84 2146 0.84 0406 1.49 1.49 0.61 1048 0.61 1.35 1705 1.35 0.78 2249 0.78 0500 1.51 1.51 0.57 1131 0.57 1.44 1747 1.44 0.71 2342 0.71

1.66 25 0704 1.37 0008 25 0.59 0.62 0704 TH 1300

28 28 29 29

30 30

 Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2018, Bureau of Meteorology  Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2018, Bureau of Meteorology Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) or daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) or daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect Moon Phase Symbols New Moon First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter New Moon First Quarter Last Quarter Moon Phase Symbols Full Moon Tide predictions for Sydney (Fort Denison) have been formatted by the National Tidal Centre, Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Copyright reserved. All material is supplied in good faith and is believed to be correct. It is supplied on the condition that no warranty is given in relation thereto, that no responsibility or liability for errors or omissions is, or will be, accepted and that the recipient will hold MHL and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology Australia free from all such responsibility or liability and from all loss or damage incurred as a consequence of any error or omission. Predictions should not be used for navigational purposes. Use of these tide predictions will be deemed to include acceptance of the above conditions.

84

MARCH 2019

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86 Paddling at Stuarts Dayne Taylor drops his kayak into the beautiful estuary known as Stuarts Point!

87 Bar crossing basics

Crossing bars is something many boaties will have to learn, so why not start right here with experienced boatie Wayne Kampe?

88 The answer my friend, is yakking in the wind Justin Willmer discusses some ways to cope with and benefit from kayaking in the wind!

This month...

Gary Brown put two models from the Legend range head to head!

Check it out on page 92!

MARCH 2019

85

Get away from all the bustle at Stuarts Point URUNGA

Dayne Taylor

If you like a peaceful pedal or paddle around a quiet estuary, look no further than Stuarts Point on the Mid North Coast for exactly that.

Stuarts Point is situated on the Clybucca Creek arm of the Macleay River, an easy 30-minute drive from Nambucca to the north, and

shops are the Boat Shed at Nambucca and Compleat Angler in Kempsey. Both stores have great selections of lures, bait and tackle to suit all the species and fishing scenarios you will encounter on your expeditions.

ESTUARY The estuary really has a lot of fishing options to offer kayak fishos. Shallow sand and weed flats holding bream, whiting and some monster flathead

results on the Berkley Gulp Nemesis and the PowerBait Ripple Shad.

When it comes to bream and whiting, topwater lures are a great option. A Bassday Sugapen or OSP Bent Minnow cast across the sand and weed flats will be the undoing of any fish that looks up.

Alternatively, you can use a lightly weighted creature bait such as a Cranka Crab, or even a

Alyce enjoying her first kayak fishing experience at Stuarts Point. with bread, and it will take no time at all to collect a few tasty live baits to tempt some monster lizards on the flats.

Dale Johnson from Freshest Fishing Tours also offers guided fishing adventures in the area.

If you want to fast track

here. A quick search for ‘fishing Grassy Head’ will show you plenty of info for the area, including GPS marks and bait grounds, all within yakking reach from the shore.

When it comes to tackle, 15kg overhead or spin gear is all you need to land a

always carry a selection of stickbaits and metal spinners to cast into schools once you find a few.

If you plan on heading offshore, remember to take all the necessary safety equipment and let the local marine rescue at Trial Bay know of your destination

A nice flathead caught on a Berkley Gulp Nemesis soft plastic. also the same distance to Kempsey in the south. A call to the Stuarts Point Holiday Park to book your site, bungalow, or cabin will have you locked in and ready to relax. The park has riverside

would definitely be the most obvious. However, a paddle upriver and you could spend days exploring the mangrove-lined creeks.

These creeks have a mix of patchy weed banks, floating

crustacean pattern like the Berkley Gulp Shrimp/Craw or an EcogearAqua Bream Prawn. Cast your creature bait around any of the structure, and you can hook up to some quality bream.

The launching facilities at Stuarts Point Holiday Park. your knowledge and make the most of your time, I recommend getting in contact with him. He can organise to meet up with you and spend the day showing you around and putting you onto some fish.

OFFSHORE Early March is usually the peak time for offshore pelagic species such as mackerel, tuna and cobia on the NSW Mid North Coast, and all of these species can be caught from a kayak

great catch of Spanish or spotted mackerel. Plenty of line will be required, and remember to have the wire trace on hand for those toothy speedsters.

A live bait, such as slimy mackerel or yakka, slow trolled or floated behind the kayak, will produce the best results.

As for lure choices, you can’t go past a Halco Laser Pro or a Samaki Pacemaker to troll around.

And of course, you should

and your expected return time. Another great safety tip is to try to always go out in a group in case something goes pear-shaped. No fish is worth putting your safety at jeopardy.

I sure hope you enjoy your time at Stuarts Point like we did. There is something extremely relaxing about this small coastal town. It feels like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Jye and Scott like their kayaks to carry all the gear, food and water required for a day’s fishing. frontage and access, with all the necessary features and creature comforts for you to enjoy your stay. It is also located right in the centre of town. Just a short walk across the road is the general store, the takeaway shop, and the bowling club and pub.

The closest fishing tackle 86

MARCH 2019

and fixed oyster leases and natural fallen timber – all great fish-holding structures.

Lures like 3” paddle-tail and grub style soft plastics are good here because they imitate small poddy mullet, and are ideal to tempt the population of flathead in these areas. I have had good

For all the bait fishos, these same locations will produce for you as well.

The exposed sand flats on low tide will produce plenty of pink nippers, which make ideal baits for bream, whiting and flathead.

Alternatively you can use a poddy mullet trap filled

A healthy Stuarts Point flathead poses for a photo on the truth mat.

The crossing to greater fishing opportunities BRISBANE

Wayne Kampe wkff@aapt.net.au

Crossing our coastal bars seems to be almost a rite of passage for boaters that love fishing. Owners of most larger trailer craft sooner or later seem to

captures that keeps people heading offshore, it is very satisfying work. It combines assessing your environment, your ability as a skipper and your confidence in your craft.

There is a great sense of accomplishment at the end of a trip.

There’s no shame in

and not something to be taken lightly.

Yet, bar crossings will vary. Several factors are at play here: waves always run ashore, that’s a given, with their strength varying according to height and frequency. However, waves are only part of the problem.

Bar crossings, all so

Little wave means little strength? Try to hold a tinny side on against a little wave and you might change your mind.

The Southport Seaway is a great place to gain experience at bar crossing work. This image gives an insight into some of the confused conditions that can be encountered. find a reason to leave the somewhat gentle confines of the estuaries and bays, opting to head offshore in pursuit of bigger and better fish.

Marlin are one of the pinnacle sportfish in the ocean, and enjoying the spectacle and sheer strength of these stallions of the sea will most definitely require deeper water.

In that same environment we might also stretch a line with some tasty wahoo, mahimahi or yellowfin tuna.

Offshore reef fishing is made more accessible by modern sounders that allow anglers to navigate the deep water’s rough ground.

A SENSE OF POWER These are just some of the incentives for heading well away from the launching ramp into an environment where wave height and timing between swells can dominate the day.

It is not just the impressive

being a little nervous on the way out – but there’s always a big smile on the return.

Been there and done that!

However, to enjoy the blue water and all it offers usually involves crossing a coastal bar; the place where a channel, river, or other major place of outflow or entry is in direct contact with the oceanic wave action.

The channel or river is usually easy going on initial approach to the main bar area, but as the craft gets closer you should expect the conditions to change as waves and current come together in water that’s often significantly shallower – a feature of many of our bars.

POTHOLES IN THE ROAD Suddenly it’s the equivalent of a potholed or badly corrugated road. You’ll need to slow down, look carefully at what’s ahead and proceed with caution. Bar crossings can be hazardous

bars – think Tallebudgera or Currumbin Creek, both gateways to Palm Beach Reef – low tide means the lowest water with waves breaking merrily and shallow water sometimes preventing travel.

Low water on the Southport Seaway is no issue; there is plenty of water under the hull, but that same bar area can be a nightmare of white water and confused surface for reasons discussed later.

MAKING A START Now that we’ve covered some of the variables and issues associated with bar crossings we can get into the

(several have them) will give an insight into what’s happening in the wave/swell department.

A 1-1.5m swell does not sound like much to contend with, but even little waves have a lot of power. If there has been an onshore breeze blowing all night there might be wind chop on top of the swell, say half a metre. It may not sound like much, but if that carefully planned daylight departure coincides with a tide that has been ebbing for around a couple of hours and that outflow is the result of a higher than

The bar, what bar! The Seaway on a great afternoon with an incoming tide, with waves around the half metre mark. different in topography and characteristics, are always influenced by the state of the tide and the amount of current making its way in or out of the main waterway.

In many smaller coastal

Life jackets are essential for bar crossings in the author’s opinion. The law requires they are to be worn when crossing a bar in a craft less than 4.8m in length.

thick of things, start the motor and see what’s ahead! In fairness, nothing can take the place of hands on experience in regards to bar crossing but we all have to make a start somewhere, so let’s consider some sensible starting points.

You should always start by getting a good look at the bar from land prior to approaching it in the boat.

Things can vary from day to day, so an idea of what lies ahead from a safe vantage point is a huge bonus. Tide status is vital. There must be enough water to allow the propeller to do its job – once the boat’s aground you have lost control of the situation.

Next consideration should be the sea conditions and studying the coastal observations on the Internet.

Taking a look at a bar crossing’s real time camera

normal tide then the larger the mass of water being moved the stronger the tide.

If there is a swell coming in and big current heading out then there is going to be some pressure waves ahead and the boat must have sufficient power to counter the force of incoming waves.

NEWBIES WISE TO WAIT FOR BEST CONDITIONS The smart boater should consider all aspects of the proposed crossing well in advance: the prevailing weather, the swell and wave action plus tidal state. For an absolute beginner, it’s common sense to take on a bar crossing when the conditions are as close to ideal as possible. Very light winds, small waves or swell and a flood tide are all ideal for a first go at a bar.

THE SEAWAY In considering bar crossings I could nominate at least a half dozen bars of varying degrees of difficulty.

Instead I’ll suggest one that is relatively user friendly on a good day and makes it ideal for beginners: the Southport Seaway.

There’s plenty of great blue water fishing within sight of the high rise ashore and the Palm Beach Reef is just a short run south. Marlin and other gamefish are well worth a try and there is plenty of reef scattered about as well, so with a flood tide and no more than a metre of swell heading towards shore it should be a breeze.

There might well be some swells during the last couple of hundred metres, but that’s standard for the course, so the idea is to move close to the action and watch the swell for a short time to ensure there are no big ones coming.

As soon as the wave set has gone it is good by the rock walls and then say hello to the blue water. Don’t forget, the life jacket must be on if the craft is less than 4.8m in length.

GAINING CONFIDENCE Experience in any bar in varying conditions is very useful in building confidence and sometimes heading outside on the last of an ebb tide will involve pressure waves ahead, but taking on differing conditions is the only way to build confidence. You’ll want to plan to return at the top of the tide or very shortly after before it gets too much of a gallop on during the ebb, especially if the high tide was a larger one.

Overall, a just making tide is the right choice especially if there is some wave action as waves and tidal flow are going in the same direction and are more easily assessed and managed. As mentioned, it’s the ebb tide, pushing against wave action, that’s the main troublemaker on a coastal bar.

In the next issue we’ll have discussions on important tactics and suitable boat designs for bar work.

MARCH 2019

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10 top tips for tackling yakking in the wind BRISBANE

Justin Willmer Find me on Facebook at Yaks On

I had a few things in mind for this month’s article: setting myself the challenge of targeting a big fish from the kayak, catching a number of species in a session, hitting the freshwater or a kayak

degree. Here are a few things that I consider when fishing in windy conditions.

ANCHORING Anchoring can allow you to fish an area more effectively, even when there is no wind, however when you are at the mercy of the wind and especially when in a paddle kayak, an anchor of one form or another can make it possible to fish, instead of

includes a stake out pole, driven into the bottom through a scupper hole or driven into the bottom and attached to an anchor line. If you are fishing around timber you can create a simple ‘grab anchor’ by attaching a spring style builder’s clamp to the end of your anchor line and attaching it to the structure.

On my recent adventures I have used a Cooper anchor

A simple anchor set-up: Cooper anchor, length of rope and locking carabiner.

A handful of windy weather bream that was feeding aggressively on the flats. bait fishing article. After a few sessions of facing 15-20 knot winds I decided it might be a good idea to share some tips for kayak fishing in the wind.

The fish don’t mind the wind, in fact sometimes it even fires them up, however it can make for a tough day on the water if you don’t take the wind into account.

sailing along at speed with your lure skipping along on the surface.

An anchor can be set-up to slow your drift or fix you in position. A sea anchor (drift chute) is designed to slow your drift in the wind and is basically a funnel made of a synthetic material that opens, fills with water and creates drag in the water

with a suitable length of anchor line for the depth I am fishing for the day, simply attached to my kayak grab rope with a locking carabiner that allows me to shorten the rope and lock it in if required. This anchor line is run through the front handle of the kayak so that when the anchor is deployed the nose of the kayak is pulled into

and the anchor retrieved to the front handle. This is a quick and simple option I use on my smaller kayak, while a full anchor running rig is connected on my larger kayak.

One important note that I would make is be careful when deploying an anchor, especially in wind and current, as the anchor line may drift under or behind the kayak and then when the anchor locks into the bottom and everything goes tight it can make your kayak unstable and even roll it. I prefer to paddle slightly further than where I wish to anchor, allow the momentum of the kayak to cease, the drift begin and then deploy the anchor line carefully and so that the nose of the kayak is already pointing into the wind or current, to avoid any sudden stops or spins.

PADDLE BLADE ANGLE One trick that I have learnt over the years is to use the blades on your kayak paddle as a sail to adjust your drift angle in the wind. The wind can force your kayak to drift at an angle that makes fishing difficult, however, by laying your kayak paddle across or along the yak so that the blade catches the wind, you can adjust the position of the paddle blade

to in turn adjust the drift angle of your kayak.

Catch the wind toward the nose of the kayak to turn the nose or catch the wind toward the tail to turn the tail. Get the angle of the kayak right and it can make casting, controlling your lure and catching fish a lot easier.

You may also find that iceboxes, landing nets in rod holders and other objects

session and the direction that they are blowing from.

This information can be important as it may impact your decision when it comes to where to launch, where to fish and how long to fish for. You can use the wind to assist you to your spot, assist you home when it increases or blows up with a tide change or afternoon change, use it to slow

A weedless rig can save you time, frustration and distraction when fishing in the wind. that catch wind may also influence your drift angle and on windy days you may have to decide whether to include them and how to carry them so as to not negatively impact your drift angle.

WIND DIRECTION It’s worth taking some time to research the winds that are expected for the

your drift against the tide or to make note of banks that will have wind blowing onto them, which can oxygenate the water and also blow bait into the area.

Wind direction and speed is also important as you can make note of sheltered launch points, sheltered areas to fish and also

A sea anchor or drift chute is ideal for slowing your drift in windy conditions.

Over the past 30 years of fishing from a kayak I have had some great success with numbers and size of fish in windy conditions, however I go into the session with the mindset that I may need to approach the area I’m fishing systematically and grind out the bite to a 88

MARCH 2019

to slow your drift. Another drift option is weight attached to the anchor line that is allowed to drag across the bottom.

When it comes to holding you in position I have had great success with a 1kg Cooper Poly anchor, however another option

the wind or tide, whichever is stronger.

When I want to retrieve the anchor I simply paddle back toward the anchor, the slack anchor line floats and can be grabbed and the anchor retrieved. If there is any issue the anchor line can be accessed at the carabiner

Creeks and rivers are good places to seek sheltered banks in windy conditions.

alternative points to exit the water should the wind make fishing dangerous or too uncomfortable. Remember safety first – you don’t have to go out, but you do have to come home.

WATER CLARITY Wind direction can also create another variable: water clarity. If you aren’t finding

the wind is blowing in the same direction as the tide it can mean a drift speed that is impossible to fish, so you may need to look at sheltered banks or anchoring options. I have used the wind against the tide to create an extremely slow drift, allowing me to effectively fish an edge or flat. It’s

Grunter are a regular occurrence in the author’s local along wind blown, murkier banks. fish on the sheltered banks that often have better water clarity, then don’t discount the windy banks, as you may find increased bait activity and more oxygenated water and in turn more fish activity.

I often have better success

important to remember though that in some areas this can create rough and even dangerous conditions as the wind and tide collide.

CASTING When casting, it is much easier to cast with the wind,

and how fast it is moving.

JIGHEAD WEIGHT The bulk of my lure fishing involves casting soft plastics and I generally use two different strategies when it comes to selecting jighead weights in windy conditions.

If I am fishing deeper water and sandy/muddy bottoms without weed I will go a little heavier with the jighead, cast long, get it down quick and cover ground.

On the other hand, I fish over the weed a lot and it can be a nightmare in the wind. It becomes difficult to control the line, keep the jighead out of the weed and drive the lure effectively over the weed. One technique that has worked well when fishing the weedy flats in the wind is to drop the jighead weight down from a 1/4oz to a 1/6oz, 1/8oz or even lighter. The wind allows a long cast with the light jighead, so your lure is a long way from the kayak and the fish are often feeding aggressively and up in the water column as the water is a little murkier and the surface disturbed.

WEEDLESS RIGGING The wind is blowing, the fish are biting and

strike zone.

SCENT UP I apply scent on my lures at all times, with the theory of applying a little scent more often, about every thirty or so casts. It masks

fishing in windy conditions, but it can be. I never head out in 15-20+ knot winds and think I’m going to smash it. I do however give myself the best chance by considering the

always safety.

My latest session in the wind only resulted in a handful of bream, however, it was great to get out, catch a few and it was rewarding to make a plan and catch some fish, despite

Keep it simple in the wind. The author’s basic anchor set-up with minimal clutter. foreign scents, attracts fish and triggers strikes.

In windy conditions when I may not have as much contact with and control of my plastics, I believe that scent is even more important. Anything that I

aforementioned variables, making a plan around them and knowing that I am going to have to apply myself, have patience and maybe even grind it out.

Many of the same general rules of fishing often apply

the conditions. I still managed to scratch the fishing itch.

If the wind kept me off the water I wouldn’t have landed the 80cm flathead pictured in last month’s article ‘Kayak fishing with Ned’, a fish that was landed

The wind is blowing, there’s some chop on the water, but it’s still too nice a day to be stuck at home.

If the call wasn’t made to fish in the wind then this would never have happened. An 80cm flathead in 20 knot winds. on flathead where the water is clearer, while bream and grunter seem to love feeding on a wind blown bank or flat.

Wind also creates dirty water lines that can be extremely productive. These dirty water lines are where the stirred up, murkier water meets cleaner water.

It can be an area where bait concentrates and also the perfect ambush point for predatory species.

TIDES When considering wind direction it’s also important to consider the direction of the tidal flow and how wind with tide and wind against tide impacts the area that you area fishing. When

especially if it’s blowing hard and it also makes it much easier to retrieve your lures without the wind blowing your line around too much. Remember, if you’re drifting fast you may be retrieving quite quickly, however this is counteracted by the drift speed and the long casts; so you should still be able to monitor contact with the bottom, cover plenty of water and keep your lure working.

You can also cast across the wind and allow the wind to drag your line and cover water, however, it takes a bit more experience to get a feel for where in the water column your lure is tracking

weedless rigging allows me to effectively and systematically work a bank, flat or structure with much less chance of fouling or snagging. This can take away a bit of the frustration of fishing in the wind as you will spend less time rigging and clearing weed off your soft plastic and more time fishing.

Accurate casts can be trickier in the wind and the weedless jighead means that if you cast a little too far onto the bank, miss the pocket in the weed or your lure gets blown into a tree by a gust of wind, then a slow wind should see you out of trouble and in the

can do to attract the fish, trigger a more aggressive strike or get that fish to hold on for a millisecond more, gives me more chance of feeling the bite and setting the hook in time.

PLAN AND PATIENCE It’s often not going to be as easy or productive kayak

in the wind, including find the bait, find the structure, match the hatch and look for eddies, pockets, points and so forth. Don’t let the wind distract you or drag you away from what has worked in the past. If an area looks good, anchor and grind it out. The main thing to consider first is

after persisting in 20 knot winds, anchoring in and pick pocketing sandy patches on the weed flats.

If it’s blowing and you feel the need to catch a fish, consider the variables outlined here, make a plan, stay safe and hook in!

See you on the water.

This mum and bub dugong didn’t mind a bit of breeze on the flats.

MARCH 2019

89

WHAT’S NEW BOATING FULTON XLT WINCH RANGE

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The new Fulton XLT Winch range provides premium performance at an affordable price. It comes in four sizes, from single speed through to two-speed, and rated from 680-1450kg.

With a stamped carbon steel frame, the range is built for strength and durability. The internals have a Z-Max 600 zinc coating for superior corrosion resistance and a 600-hour salt spray rating. The polypropylene cover protects the internal hardware from the harsh marine environment, and provides safety from moving parts. The carbon steel frame is built tough, providing all-important rigidity necessary for accurate gear alignment resulting in a longer life.

The single-speed winch features an efficient gear ratio, full-length drum bearings, oil-impregnated shaft bushings, and an 8” comfort-grip handle for ease of cranking. The two-speed winch also has a shift lock design.

All models are backed by a 5-year limited warranty.

Price: from $149 www.fultonperformance.com

FUSION EL SHALLOW-MOUNT

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Lowrance HDS LIVE, available in 7”, 9”, 12” and 16” display sizes, delivers powerful real-time sonar, charting and connectivity features including Active Imaging, LiveSight, Genesis Live and LiveCast smartphone integration.

Active Imaging lets you see structure and cover with a new level of refined detail, and at a range unmatched by any other structure imaging technology. Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar combines Lowrance CHIRP with SideScan and DownScan Imaging, and Livesight sonar delivers the most detailed views of fish as they swim in and around cover.

When using LiveSight forward in conjunction with the Lowrance Point-1 GPS antenna, an on-chart indicator shows the direction the transducer is pointed, letting you line up on a waypoint or pinpoint structure.

Delivering real-time, custom-mapping capabilities, HDS LIVE harnesses the power of Genesis Live charting, which uses digital depth to create depth-contour overlays on charts.

HDS LIVE also allows anglers to display fishing info and entertainment from their smartphones on their 12” and 16” sunlight viewable displays.

Price: from SRP $1549 (7”) www.lowrance.com 90

MARCH 2019

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Mercury is kicking off 2019 in the best way, with savings of up to $800 on its outstanding 40-60hp FourStroke outboards.

These are the most popular outboards on the water – for good reason. Ideal for a huge range of activities, these engines will revitalise your boat with the power, efficiency and reliability of Mercury’s advanced FourStroke technology.

Weighing in from just 93kgs, these engines have everything you need and nothing you don’t.

And to make a good decision even easier, Mercury Finance is available with deals at 3.99% allowing for easy, weekly repayments.

This offer is subject to engine availability so if you want to take advantage to repower, refresh, and rejuvenate your boat, then you’d better act fast.

This offer lasts until 22 March 2019 and is only available at participating Mercury dealers.

Terms and conditions apply. www.mercurymarine.com.au

FNAVICO DISTRIBUTE 5 2 CLARION

Fusion’s EL Series of shallow-mount marine speakers feature a modern design in two styles with LED lighting options, durable construction and accessory grille options.

The shallow basket design makes the EL Series ideal where mounting depth is limited.

The two grille styles, Classic and Sports, provide the ultimate in cone protection while complementing the vessel look, with the choice of seven LED lighting colours.

Designed for functionality that lasts in harsh outdoor and marine environments, the EL Series is rated IP65 for water and dust ingress protection from the front face when correctly mounted. It also meets industry standards for UV and salt fog protection.

Offered in 80W, 6.5” speakers, the powerful EL Series is engineered with a compact basket assembly for simple and versatile installation.

Extra grilles are available in Sports White, Sports Grey, Classic White or Classic Black. www.fusionentertainment.com

LOWRANCE HDS LIVE

MERCURY SALE NOW ON

PRODUCT GUIDE

Navico, parent company to leading marine electronics brands Lowrance®, Simrad®, B&G® and C-MAP®, has announced its distribution agreement with Clarion Marine Systems, via JL Audio. Navico Australia and New Zealand will be able to offer a range of Clarion Marine audio products to its existing dealer network.

Under an exclusive long-term Licensing Agreement made in Q3 of 2018, JL Audio assumed responsibility for Clarion’s Marine Audio Electronics and Accessories business in North America, South America, Australia and New Zealand. Navico APAC has been the distributor of JL Audio products since 2016 hence was the logical choice to distribute Clarion Marine products moving forward.

Mathew Hooper, Navico Australia and New Zealand Sales Director, commented on the recent partnership.

“The well-established and quality proven Clarion Marine products complement Navico’s extensive product portfolio,” he said. “We can now offer a complete and premium range of marine electronics to our customer base and look forward to developing our partnership with JL Audio with the distribution of Clarion Marine Systems.” www.clarion.com/au/en/top.html

MERCURY’S 80TH ANNIVERSARY

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Mercury Marine will celebrate its 80th anniversary throughout 2019 with events around the world, reflecting on its strong heritage of innovation and leadership in the marine industry.

On January 22, 1939, E. Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing plant in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Now, 80 years later, the business that emerged from those modest beginnings – Mercury Marine – is a company with 7,000 employees across the globe and is heralded as the world’s leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, as well as marine parts and accessories.

“Eighty years ago, Carl Kiekhaefer had a vision for Mercury and that was based around product innovation and technology – and it’s that vision that built the foundation for us to continue to innovate today,” said John Pfeifer, Mercury Marine president.

Mercury will celebrate its 80th anniversary throughout the year and showcase some of its strong heritage during the 2019 boat shows. www.mercurymarine.com.au

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Clark comparison: Legend against Legend!

SYDNEY SOUTH

Gary Brown gbrown1@iprimus.com.au

Dave Muscat from DM Marine at 50 Bath Rd North, Kirrawee NSW has been welding up a storm

railings, hull repairs, live bait tanks, and bait boards just to name a few.

Now DM Marine have now added a new string to their bow. As of February 2018, they became the proud dealer of Clark Aluminium Boats. In this boat review I

At the rear of the Side Console there is a plumbed live well, two screwed in aluminium rod holders, a transom door and a couple of tie off cleats. for over seven years in the Sutherland Shire. They are one of Sydney’s leading aluminium boat repairer for specialized modifications in boat welding and marine fabrications. They can manufacture fuel tanks for boats, do minor repairs on aluminium dinghies, customise canopies and rails for boats, rod holders, boat 92

MARCH 2019

have carried out on the water tests of not one, but two 5.2m Clark Legend Consoles.

So why two on the water tests on the same length, width and height boats?

It’s to give you an idea of the overall performance of what the same boats can do when there have been a few upgrades from the standard hull length, width and height.

Also, how they have been set-up to cater for two different styles of boating and fishing.

Boat 1 is a Clark 5.2m Legend Side Console powered by a 100hp 4-stroke Honda on a single axle steel trailer and boat 2 is the Clark 5.2m Legend Plate Centre Console powered by a 150hp 4-stroke Honda on a dual axle steel trailer.

Boat 1 is a side console that would be ideal to take a couple of mates fishing in the river, lakes, estuaries, open bays and even some close offshore fishing. Even though it’s registered to take

5.20 LEGEND SIDE CONSOLE SPECIFICATIONS Boat overall length ..................................... 5.38m Beam............................................................ 2.35m Depth ........................................................... 1.06m Weight (boat only) ....................................... 560kg Recommended hp ............................................ 70 Max hp ..........................................................115hp Bottom ........................................................ 3.0mm Side ............................................................. 3.0mm Shaft size ........................................................... LS Max people.......................................................... 6

Main: The author tested two boats of the same length, width and height set up for different styles of fishing and boating.

Above: It’s a good idea to leave the safety chain on the boat until you get down to the water’s edge. Better to be safe than have your boat come off the trailer and onto the ramp. six people you could easily fit four adults for a day’s inshore fishing. If fishing close offshore I would say the boat would comfortably fit three

adults, maybe four if the conditions are right.

It has an open tournament style layout with a carpeted front casting platform,

5.20 LEGEND PLATE CC SPECIFICATIONS Boat overall length ...............................5.38m Beam......................................................2.35m Depth .....................................................1.06m Weight (boat only) ................................. 760kg Recommended .....................................100hp Max hp ................................................... 150hp Bottom ..................................................4.0mm Side .......................................................3.0mm Shaft Size .......................................... LS or XL Max people....................................................6

bow-mounted electric motor, live bait tank, 90L plumbed kill tank, aluminium rod holders, ample storage, a boat catch and a trolling mode switch that will allow you to control the trolling speed by slowing down or speeding up the RPM of the motor with a flick of the switch. With its 3mm bottom and sides it would be perfect for either lure or bait fishing in the estuaries, dams, lakes and some close offshore fishing.

The position of the side console and the fold down seating allows you to have plenty of leg room to move

about in the boat. The casting deck at the bow of the boat is just the right height for an easy step up to cast a snag, a school of feeding fish and to lower and retrieve your anchor.

With the power of the 100hp, 4-stroke Honda outboard there would be plenty of grunt for a bit of water skiing or towing of a boat tube. The passenger’s seat at the rear can easily be swivelled around so that you can be an observer.

The only slightly negative thing that I would say is that the side console could be about 20cm wider and have a wrap-around windscreen to give you more protection from the elements.

tank, 90L plumbed kill tank, ample storage, aluminium rod holders, a boat-catch and a trolling mode switch that will allow you to control the trolling speed by slowing down or speeding up the RPM of the motor with the flick of a switch.

The main differences are that boat 2 has a custom designed DM Marine centre console built by Clark boats complete with high windscreen and covered in storage area below. The pod has been redesigned and strengthened, plus you now have a 4mm plate bottom and 3mm sides and the motor has been upgraded to a 150hp 4-stroke Honda outboard.

The positioning of the side console and the rear seat positions make it easy to move around inside of the boat.

Help keep your trailer in mint condition by getting Dave to install a self-watering pump. Park your trailer, turn on the pump and walk away. The pump will turn itself off after a few minutes.

Boat 2 is the Clark 5.2m Legend Centre Console powered by a 150hp 4-stroke Honda and is Dave’s pride and joy.

As with boat 1, boat 2 also has the open tournament style and comes with a carpeted front casting platform, electric motor bow mount, live bait

Instead of 2 fully upholstered high back fold down swivel seats with poles there is a padded bench seat built for two with plenty of storage underneath.

With the extra power of the 150hp, 4-stroke Honda outboard there would be plenty of grunt, with plenty to

spare for a bit of water skiing or towing of a boat tube.

ON THE WATER PERFORMANCE With two aboard the 5.2m Clark Legend Side Console the 100hp 4-Stroke Honda pushed the outfit out of the water and up onto the plane with ease, settling down on the plane at about 2550RPM, giving you a very comfortable ride at 22knots.

I have found that with most 4-stroke outboards the motor noise is very minimal and at 750RPM the Honda 100hp Idle didn’t disappoint.

There wasn’t much difference when the boat was travelling at 4-knots, as it too was running at 750RPM. Travelling at 8 knots it was running at 1600RPM and at 12 knots, is was running at 2400RPM, making it a very economical outboard.

Top speed of this outfit was 35 knots at 6000RPM with two adults on board. Not that I would run it at this speed, preferring to cruise at about 5000RPM doing 25 knots.

Once again with two people on board the 5.2m Clark Legend Centre Console, the 150hp 4-Stroke Honda pushed the outfit out of the water with two adults on board up onto the plane with so much ease, with the 150hp that had plenty

Top: Dave’s pride and joy, the 5.2m Clark Legend Centre Console, is worth a look.

Above: Even the local wildlife was quite impressed with the 5.2m Clark Legend Side Console powered by the 4-stoke 100hp outboard.

The cranking battery sits nicely at the centre of the rear of the boat, l eaving you a bit of storage to the left of it for some of your boating essentials. The raised front of the tray will stop things from sliding off. of grunt left over. That even if you had three anglers on board, I don’t think that there would be much difference in the overall performance of the boat.

Once up onto the plane you could settle down to a comfortable ride at around 25 knots, with the RPM running

The test boat had a customized selfdraining bait board with rod holders.

slightly slower at 4500RPM. I have found that with most 4-stroke outboards the motor noise is very minimal and at 750RPM, the Honda 150hp Idle didn’t disappoint.

There was a slight difference of about 50RPM when the boat was travelling at 4 knots and while travelling at 8 knots Up at the bow of the Side Console there is plenty of under floor storage for your safety gear, and twin batteries for the electric motor of your choice. The deep self-draining anchor well would store your anchor, chain and rope while the carpet would keep the noise down.

Dave from DM Marine can design and customise your own self washing outfit for your trailer. The extra cost will be worth it as it will save you time and money on maintenance on the trailer.

The 100hp 4-stroke Honda outboard pushed the boat out of the hole with plenty to spare.

Imagine what a 115hp (max hp with 3mm bottom and sides) outboard would achieve.

it was running at 1475RPM and at 12 knots, it too was running at close to 2450RPM. Top speed of this outfit was 50 knots at 6200 RPM with two adults on board.

As tested. the Clark 5.2m Legend Side Console powered by a 100hp 4-stroke Honda package comes in at $41,990, with the Centre Console

coming in at $51,990.00.

For more details on what Dave from DM Marine Services can whip up for you, visit the website at www.dmmarineservices. com.au or call Dave on 0410 774 696. DM Maine Services workshop is located at 50 Bath Rd North, Kirrawee, NSW. MARCH 2019

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The padded seat at the helm acts as a storage compartment on the Centre Console (left), while having a 50L freshwater tank at the bottom. This would be used to help wash down your boat while fishing. If you take the aluminium divider out of the Centre Consoleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 90L plumbed kill/live well tank (right) at the front it would hold a either a decent kingy or flathead. If you like, Dave can drill a couple of holes in the divider to allow the water to flow through when travelling.

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The sleek 3mm hull and reverse chines of the 5.2m Clark Legend Side Console (bottom) will give you a smooth ride when next out on the water. The Centre Console has smaller chines, but still provided a reletively smooth ride.

The Side Console that was tested on the day came with an 80lb Minn Kota Self deploy I Pilot Ulterra electric motor (bottom) that can be operated from anywhere in the boat. The Centre Console (top) had added non-slip deck material.

The pod on the rear of the Centre Console (left) had to be reinforced to take the extra weight and power of the 150hp. The Side Console took less power, but the author was was impressed with the quietness of the 100hp 4-stroke Honda outboard.

The author found that the side console (left) was a little bit too narrow for his liking, as the windscreen didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t deflect enough breeze while travelling. The custom designed DM Marine centre console (right) comes complete with high windscreen, 4 rod holders, large dash and covered in storage area.

MARCH 2019

We work hard for you and we take pride in what we do • Boat Sales • Mechanical Repairs • Custom Alloy Fabrication • Service

At DM Marine, we work closely with our customers to ensure their marine and boat customizations are achieved through solid designs and superior workmanship.

We make getting your boat fixed easy!

Sydney’s leading aluminium boat repairer and modification provider, we specialize in boat welding and marine fabrications. These include Fuel tanks, Rod Holders, Boat Railings, Hull repairs, Live Bait Tanks and Bait Boards just to name a few.

50 Bath Road N, Kirrawee NSW 2232 Phone: 0410 774 696 Email: info@dmmarineservices.com.au

SAVE UP TO $800 ON 40-60HP FOURSTROKE The Mercury Sale is now on, with savings across the entire 40-60hp FourStroke range.

But be quick to enjoy the performance, fuel economy and the reliability of Mercuryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advanced FourStroke technology this summer.

HURRY OFFER ENDS MARCH 22ND, 2019 For participating dealers go to mercurymarine.com.au Terms and Conditions apply.