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One month of marron mayhem • Beach launching guide
January, 2019 ISSN: 2209-3354
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January 2019, Vol. 1 No. 5
Contents 8
METRO Perth metro
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Cockburn Sound
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Swan & Canning Rivers
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Metro Offshore
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SOUTH COAST Esperance 20 Bremer Bay
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Albany 24 WEST COAST Augusta 25 Busselton 28 Bunbury 28 Mandurah 30 Lancelin 32 Jurien Bay
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Geraldton 34 Kalbarri 35 GASCOYNE COAST Carnarvon 37 Shark Bay
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From the Editor’s Desk... Well here we are in 2019 already! I hope all of you had a very safe and fishy Christmas break, and if you didn’t, hopefully you will be getting amongst it soon. So, five issues in and WA Fishing Monthly is selling better than we could have ever anticipated, on the isubscribe.com.au website under the Fishing and Boating section we are now ranked number 5! Top 1, 2 and 3 are our sister publications over in the east. Achieving the top 5 has been a great milestone, and we will wait and see if we can make it a Fishing Monthly Group top 4 in the near future. If the support keeps growing like it has been, it will not take long. If you are reading this and it is your first issue from a Christmas gift or you have not seen the mag
before, you can also catch up on old issues for free by getting onto the Issuu. com website. Look up Fishing Monthly and click
mags for free to check out the articles, techniques and what is going on over on the eastern seaboard. You might just pick up a few tricks
on the issues with no prices against them, and they are free to read. Likewise, if you cannot read enough about fishing you can also check out the east coast
and tips for catching your favourite species! If you really love your fishing and have some skills and photos you would like to share, be sure to get in
Happy New Year 2019
Ian Sewell touch with me about how we can get your article published and give you some spare fishing tackle money at the same time! I am always keen for more land-based content, but am happy to look at whatever ideas you have. The hardest part is actually getting in touch, after that you will find the process very easy. Likewise, if you have a boat ramp in your town and we do not have a fishing report on your area and you would like to be a part of action, get in touch and find out how easy it is! As with every issue, we have some cool prizes to give away, and this month we have 40 packs of hooks and you also go into the draw for the major prizes drawn at the end of April, so check out page 21 for more info and get those entries in and good luck!
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Exmouth 38 NORTH COAST Port Hedland
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Broome 40
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Dam Levels
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Recfishwest 44 Tournament News
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Trade and Services Guide
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What’s new fishing
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What’s new boating
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Conquering the inshore marlin run
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These fantastic pink snapper were taken just out from Mandurah.
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Beach launching tips and tricks
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One month of marron mayhem
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One month of marron mayhem METRO
Kurt Blanksby
There is something so exciting about shining the torch light into the shallows just after dark every January when the marron season starts. Seeing those big black freshwater crayfish materialising out of nowhere to feed on the baits in only inches of water is totally captivating, and catching them becomes your soul purpose and nothing else can draw your focus away from attempting to do so.
gear, traps and fishing out of season. It makes me wonder how it all goes unnoticed. Sure there was several high profile prosecutions by Fisheries over the years of people caught doing the wrong thing, but these are few and far between. Even seeing Fisheries Officers patrolling would be a better deterrent to those planning to do the wrong thing, so I would dearly love to see a couple of the guys drop by and check licences, gear and have a friendly chat to all of us participating in the season. I know they are stretched to the limit
These Harvey Dam monsters were caught by snaring the night before. HISTORY For thirty years now I have participated in marron season every summer and have seen what I consider the best years and the worst. The season was closed for several years at one stage to allow stocks to recover and although I consider stocks to be OK, the illegal poaching and fishing methods has certainly taken its toll on our once trophy water – Harvey Dam. For the last 20 years I have never seen a Fisheries Officer while marroning, but I have personally witnessed so many illegal activities and seen blatant use of illegal
and they do participate in surveillance activities, but this is not enough to keep the majority of wrong doers from pilfering a very delicate fishery. MEET THE MARRON Aright, enough of me getting on my high horse, let’s get back to the basic nuts and bolts when it comes to catching these freshwater beasts. Marron are our third largest freshwater crayfish and are endemic to Western Australia, however they have been translocated through most of the south west and reach up as far as the Hutt River near Northampton.
A limited season of a month each January and strict size and bag limits apply, and you must buy a licence to fish for them. Make sure you check out the legalities online and buy a licence before you head out. Of all the methods, I prefer the pole snare technique, which is by far one of the most enjoyable and is highly effective once you hone your skills. WHERE Marron can be caught from many irrigation dams, rivers and streams, however I prefer the big irrigation dams that are open to fishing, namely Harvey Dam. This particular water is classed as a trophy water so it is snare only and has a larger minimum size of 90mm carapace length. That is from the tip of its longest point on the nose to the part where it joins the articulated tail. Having seen and caught marron up to 150mm carapace length in the past, you can see that their potential to grow to a bragging size is there. A bag limit of five marron per fisher per day (12 noon to 12 noon) applies to this water, but trust me, five marron of legal size are pretty big, so this is a fair bag limit. Other trophy waters are Waroona Dam and the Hutt River, where these regulations apply, but for any other open water the bag limit is eight marron per day and a carapace measurement of 80mm. Proper wire based marron drop nets and wire scoop nets are allowed to be used in some waters, but again check the regulations online before you head out. I like to get to my chosen location early in the day, the main reason for this is to secure a spot for the nights marroning, as it is a very popular past time and pushing in on someone else’s area is not going to be greeted well. Once I am set up I mark out a section of bank, being mindful that space is limited and not taking too much ground that
Marron season is popular, and you need to get a spot early. Pick a nice gravel bank that is sheltered from the wind. 8
JANUARY 2019
would prevent others from finding a spot. I check out the water depth, the slope of bank and clarity of the water, as once darkness falls I want a steadily sloping bank adjacent to deeper water where the biggest marron will move in from. If possible I prefer a gravel or sand section over mud, and although this is not always possible when the shallows become stirred up and silted, your visibility will be extremely limited. Try to pick a section of water that is on the sheltered side of the wind, noting that late in the day the sea breeze might prevent you from seeing into the choppy shallows. The same goes if the easterly wind kicks in too early after dark. Your once calm sheltered location will turn into a soupy mess, preventing you from seeing, let alone catching any marron. BAITING UP Bait is easy. Commercially made chicken laying pellets bought from any stockfeed supplier is clean and effective. I usually purchase a 30kg bag, which will allow me to bait up
Chicken laying pellets make ideal bait. There is no smell or mess and the marron love them. making their escape easier and you will muddy up the shallows wading out to try and catch them. You’re much better off keeping your feet out of the water and bringing the marron in to you. The next mistake is people using a snare that is not long enough. I have made my snares out of old
some practice it is very easy and highly effective, great fun and without doubt the best way to catch these creatures. Once snared the marron needs to be carefully removed from the snare, all the time avoiding their powerful claws that will deliver a painful nip. They should then be measured
This is the correct position to put the snare behind a marron. Once you get the snare wire over the tail, wait until it is near the body before you lift it quickly to tighten the loop and lift the marron from the water. on several trips during the season. Marron love these pellets and they also have the added advantage of being white, so when a cupful is places in the shallows any feeding black marron will contrast against the white of the pellets making them easy to spot and snare. SNARING THE PREY A big mistake I see so many people making is putting their baits out too far from shore. You only need to put them no further than 60cm (2ft) from the shore, as marron will venture right up to feed. If you put them further out you will then have the marron in deeper water
3m fishing rods with a 90° bit of plastic tube coming off the end. This short dogleg at the end of the snare pole has the thin white plastic coated electrical wire running through it and is tied off on the tip of the rod. With a self-tightening loop on the business end this allows me to drop the snare over the back of the marron and gently move it up over the tail to where the carapace joins. Once in place a quick lift upwards tightens the snare around the marron and it can be easily lifted from the water and up onto dry land. It sounds tricky, but with
to make sure it is of legal size. If it’s too small it must be put back into the water immediately, and if it’s legal size it can be put into a damp hessian bag where it will stay cool and calm while you continue marroning along the bank. Your baits should be placed every 10m or so along the bank in the stretch of water you are marroning, and by quietly moving along and shining a torch on and around each bait you should spot any marron moving in or feeding. If they are too deep and not quite on the bait, turn your torch off and wait, usually they will keep
walking into the shallows to feed. Trying to snare a marron in deeper water can mean you will only get one shot at it and if you miss it will dart backwards into the safety of deeper water. If you let it come in and start feeding you will have a better chance and numerous chances of getting the snare
around its tail. If you work with a partner it can pay off. As one of you positions your snare behind the marron, the other can gently touch it on the nose to make it move backwards into the other snare. By using teamwork you can take turns at snaring marron until your bag limit
overnight. If kept moist and cool they will live for a day in this way, so it is important not to subject them to heat or direct sun, and the same goes for keeping them in a bucket of water, which will eventually run out of dissolved oxygen and the marron will die. When I get home I put the wet hessian sack in the chiller section at the bottom of the fridge for a few hours to slow the marrons
I prefer to half the tails and cook them on a BBQ plate with lots of butter and a hint of garlic and salt. Claws can be cooked the same way and have a different taste and texture to the tail meat. Marroning is a very enjoyable and rewarding experience for adults and kids alike, and it is purely a West Australian activity that is eagerly looked forward to each year. It combines the great
A good catch of marron by a couple of ‘marroners’ in an evening.
A damp hessian sack is the best way to keep your marron alive and quiet while trying to snare more.
is reached. Although it is tempting, don’t try and snare a marron by its claw. If you are successful in tightening the loop often the marron will shed the claw as you try and lift it from the water. Only go for the tail and be patient; the higher up the body you move your snare the less chance of the marron slipping out of it. Trying to lift the snare too soon before the whole tail is through the snare loop will usually result in you not being successful, as the snare needs the weight of the marron to tighten, and just the tip of the tail will only lift the animal up and the loop will slip free. Usually I find the first walk or two after dark the
best, as this is when most marron have eagerly made their way into the shallows for a feed. Numbers will generally taper off for the next few walks, as spooked or fed marron will retreat to the cooler, deeper water again. Then a second run will start when often the biggest most cautious marron will make their way into the shallows, so a long late night marroning can be the norm. CARING FOR YOUR CATCH You will either reach your bag limit or eventually tire and head for bed, and at this stage the live marron can be kept together in the wet hessian sack and put in an esky to stop them escaping
A delicacy on the plate, marron make fantastic eating. metabolism down, then when ready to cook I take them out and drive a knife between the eyes to humanely kill them before cleaning them down for cooking. Most people boil marron whole, and although this method is still very effective,
outdoors with the thrill of catching a feed on a warm summers night. Please be responsible and do the right thing if you plan to give it a go. If you do, you will no doubt have plenty of laughs and build great memories of going marroning!
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South Coast
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Summer fun in the 4WD BREMER BAY
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Kurt Blanksby
MAKE YOUR DREA MAKE YOUR DREA A REALITY A REALITY
By now the summer invasion of anglers will mean soft sand with lots of wheel ruts along many of the popular beaches, and these will test your 4WDing skills, but don’t be put off, as this is a great time of year to be enjoying warmer weather and pristine beaches along the South Coast. Bremer Bay area has so many locations that allow beach anglers the chance to drive along a beach and
from some spots like Fosters or Reef Beach. Bigger baits fished after dark not only turn up gummy sharks, but some bragging size tailor will also be showing themselves. Big skippy continue to be a prize species, as do the occasional large blue spot flathead that are often caught at this time of year. During the day, lighter line and smaller baits or lures will provide a good feed of herring, especially if you berley up to bring them into the area. Rock anglers picking the best conditions for safe fishing will do well
for not only samsonfish and yellowtail kingfish, but also demersal species like dhufish and breaksea cod. An often overlooked but decent table fish is the horseshoe leatherjacket. These colourful fish are in good numbers from the rock locations, and by changing down to smaller hooks and baits you can actively target these fish. Along with the horseshoe leatherjacket, smaller hooks will pick up skippy, King George whiting, numerous wrasse and sweep. Summer wind patterns will be making boating a hit and miss affair, but for those
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Southern bluefin tuna can be picked up trolling small pusher style lures between spots or by casting lures at feeding schools. This one was picked up on fly. find a good looking bit of water to spend a few hours, or a night or two chasing some decent fish from the surf. Typically most are still fishing the evenings, as after dark these sometimes quiet fishing spots suddenly turn on the goods. Sharks of all sizes from manageable gummies and small whaler sharks through to unstoppable bigger beasts move in to the gutters and surf zones to feed. Later in the year when the salmon turn up, the number of big sharks increases dramatically, as they follow the salmon schools along the coast. Speaking of salmon, January usually sees the first few scout fish move into the area, so it is not uncommon to pick up a salmon or two
live baiting with floats or balloons for big samsonfish and yellowtail kingfish. Another method is to slide bait, and this is basically casting a big sinker out on a lighter leader that snags up in the reef further out, a clip on leader is then used to send a large bait or live herring back down the main line, once a fish takes the bait the sinker leader is broken off and the angler can fight the fish as normal. Metal demersal jigs designed for jigging from boats have also been popular amongst many rock anglers, and these can be cast a long way out on spin gear and fished at numerous depths. The jig is worked back to the rocks in an erratic fashion and has been accounting
managing to head out there will be a good chance of picking up demersal species from the deeper water. Closer in, mixed bags of skippy, herring, and King George and sand whiting are there for the taking. Throw in a few squid and you can enjoy a good fishing session without facing the risk of having to head offshore should the strong winds pick up. Trolling small skirted lures or minnow lures can account for bonito, snook or southern bluefin tuna that will be in reasonablesized schools. Look for bird activity over feeding fish or just troll between spots as you search for demersal species for a chance at these pelagics.
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23
WHAT’S NEW FISHING OKUMA PRESSURE POINT RODS
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their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ blackmagictackle. www.blackmagictackle.com
Okuma brings affordability to high end heavy plastics, popping and stickbait rods, without sacrificing quality, with the release of the Pressure Point rod range. Features includeToray graphite blanks, Fuji K-Series Tangle Free Guides, Fuji reel seats and most importantly actions and builds designed in conjunction with guides from Australia’s premier sportfishing charters. The range consists of five rods, a one-piece general purpose 701M 7’ PE 2.0-4.0, 20-80g Heavy Plastics rod and four two-piece, butt joint rods, for easier transport and storage. The two Popping rods are a 792MH 7’9” PE 4.0-6.0, 50-150g and a 792H 7’9” PE 6.0-8.0, 80-200g, while the Stickbait models consist of a 762M 7’6” PE 2.0-4.0, 20-80g and a 832M 8’3” PE 4.0-6.0, 40-120g. These five models will have you covered for light jigging and heavy plastics applications, through to the bulk of anglers’ stickbait and popping requirements, without breaking the bank. Team them up with an Okuma Azores Blue spinning reel and you have a genuine big fish stopping combo for around $500, or put the money you have saved on the rod toward arguably the strongest reel in the world, the Okuma Makaira, including the soon to be released 10000 size. Price: SRP $279.90-$299.00 www.okuma.com.au
Long-sleeved collared shirts make ideal fishing wear, as they shield the neck and forearms from sun exposure. The new Sublimated Fishing Shirts from Shimano go one step further though, as the fabric has a UPF 50+ rating for maximum protection. The 100% poly microfibre material used is also moisture wicking, so it draws moisture away from the body. Consequently, the shirts keep the wearer cool, and dry fast should they get wet. Additionally, they contain an antimicrobial treatment, meaning bacteria can’t get a foothold in the fabric. The fish designs of Bream, Tuna and Kingfish represent a collaboration between Shimano Australia and noted fishing writer/ underwater photographer, Al McGlashan. There is also a Squid design in the range for those anglers who love their egi fishing. The sublimated printing process means they will retain their vibrant colours for many years to come. Shimano Sublimated Fishing Shirts are available in sizes S-XXXL. www.shimanofish.com.au
SAMAKI VIBELICIOUS 2 YAKKA
MAPSO VLASON SPINNER
Samaki Vibelicious brings a new colour to the lure market: yakka. Yakka is all about the detail, with its patterned back featuring yakka stripes, and hits of yellow on the tail and fins adding to the lifelike appearance of the lure. The colour has proven itself time and time again as it is fished in multiple locations around the country, attracting barra, jew, bream and flathead to name a few. The traditional features of the Vibelicious Fork tail and Thumper tail are only enhanced by such an attractant as the yakka colour. The Vibelicious Fork Tail and Thumper tail come in three sizes – 70mm, 100mm and 125mm. The 100mm and 125mm sizes have now been upgraded with the new YS81 Decoy Hooks and the all new Decoy EX Strong Split Rings. Hardware like this encourages longevity in your fishing experiences and better hookups, as the hook penetration is on point. As always, the Vibelicious contains premium Japanese stainless wire and is made of the toughest 10X super stretch material. www.samaki.com.au
BLACK MAGIC MEASURES UP
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With the growing emphasis on measuring fish rather than weighing them, particularly in tournaments, Black Magic has introduced a ‘brag’ mat into its range of quality fishing accessories. The Black Magic brag mat is manufactured from a durable UV-resistant PVC material, so it won’t warp and deteriorate in the sun like cheap mats will. It also has a sturdy acrylic header board to butt the fish up against. This brag mat is designed to measure fish up to 1300mm, so it’s better equipped to measure big specimens than some smaller truth mats are. It has well-defined numbers and centimetre markings that show up clearly in photos. This mat is 250mm in width and rolls up tightly for easy stowage, and comes complete with a handy mesh bag. For more information on this and other Black Magic releases, visit the Black Magic Tackle website. You can also see all the latest news and catch photos on
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JANUARY 2019
SHIMANO FISHING SHIRTS
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The new Mapso Vlason spinners are sure to be a hit with Australian anglers chasing freshwater species. The Vlason is a bell-shaped spinner that features an internal cog which creates a vibration as it spins through the water. This vibration helps to attract fish from longer distances, as they pick up the lures vibration on their lateral line. As you can imagine, this lure is particularly effective in murky water. The Vlason, like the rest of the Mapso range, is made to the highest quality standards, and has a 100% perfect spinning action every time. The Vlason weighs 4g and is 50mm long. It is available in six proven colours and has two pieces per packet. The Vlason will also be very effective on redfin, bass, sooty grunter and jungle perch. To find out more visit the Juro website. www.jurofishing.com
DAIWA TD BLACK LT
PRODUCT GUIDE
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It’s time to get back in black with the release of the new TD Black LT spin reel range. Bearing the famous Black name that has been featuring so strongly in the Daiwa line-up over the last few years, the TD Black LT features the LT’s Light Tough Concept to deliver anglers a reel that impresses in looks and wows in performance. Lighter, stronger, tougher and more advanced in design and performance than its predecessor, Generation Black, the new TD Black features Daiwa’s new Tough Digigear gears for enhanced gear smoothness, strength and power. New gears is just the tip of the iceberg, with an ultra-light Long Cast ABS aluminium spool, Zaion body, ATD drag, Air Bail, MagSeal, Perfect Line Stopper, aluminium Air Handle, and Air Rotor combining to make the TD Black LT one of the standout reels in the Daiwa range. Available in six different sizes, ranging from the 2000D through to the 6000D, the TD Black LT heralds a new age for the famous name, and makes the perfect partner for the equally restyled and relaunched TD Black rod series. www.daiwafishing.com.au
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PRODUCT GUIDE
WHAT’S NEW FISHING B&S Q6500 QUIETPOWER
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The new Q6500 QuietPower Series Inverter Generator from Briggs & Stratton is designed to deliver consistent power for essential appliances and sensitive electronics. The all-steel frame, encased in a protective shell, increases the lifespan and reduces repair costs. Inverter technology produces power that is 60% quieter than standard generators. The Q6500 features an efficient integrated engine/alternator to provide up to 14 hours of run time and 6500 starting watts of reliable back-up power. With its telescopic handle, integrated wheels and a design that’s 45% more compact and 30% lighter than standard generators, moving and storing the Q6500 is easy. Another feature is the Bluetooth functionality available through the InfoHub app. The app monitors total power being used, run time (hours until empty), total unit hours and maintenance reminders. With the added option of the new Manual Transfer Switch, the Q6500 can also be easily connected to provide power at home in the event of a power outage. Price: SRP $2999 www.briggsandstratton.com
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RHINO-RACK WIND FAIRING
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Engineered with an innovative sawtooth pattern to disrupt and redirect airflow of oncoming wind, the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Wind Fairing reduces wind noise and resonance for a quieter drive. Not only will it effectively deflect the air surrounding your load, the Pioneer Wind Fairing doesn’t take up any of the usable space. The Wind Fairing has a stylish black design to give your vehicle and roof racks a sleeker look. Offering both adjustable angular and longitudinal movements, it will conform to most vehicles’ roof lines and allow a more desirable fit for your car. With 4mm thick ABS construction and glass-filled nylon, the new Pioneer Wind Fairing is solidly built. The UV resistance will prevent any colour fading, so that sleek black won’t be turning grey. The addition of soft Santoprene rubber feet and 3M clear plastic patches protect your vehicle’s paintwork to keep your roof scratch free. Compatible with existing Pioneer Systems for easy installation and removal, the Pioneer Wind Fairing is backed by a 5-year warranty. Price: SRP $179 www.rhinorack.com.au
UGLY STIK GOLD SERIES
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The Ugly Stik Gold series incorporates new technology that further improves dependability and performance. The new Ugly Stik Howald process features Triple Built construction around an internal fiberglass core. Parallel fibers infused with pigmented polyester resin creates a strong yet sensitive rod with better balance that is virtually indestructible. The latest inter-core laminate is an innovative design process that surrounds the graphite shaft fibers in the outer walls with a rigid-wrap structure. The new process provides greater stiffness and superior strength through the blank shaft. This creates a better taper from the backbone of the blank to the tip providing extra sensitivity and casting performance. Ugly Stik Gold series are equipped with a full Fuji New Concept Guide for tangle free fishing. Fuji reel DPS graphite and Fuji TCS trigger reel seats are incorporated throughout
the Gold range. Finished with comfortable tapered grips with Ugly Stik etched into the EVA and a slick new matt finish. www.uglystik.com.au
NEW DAIWA RELEASES
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SAMAKI SUNGLASSES
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GILLIES SHRIMP AND VIBE
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First you became a fighter, now you must become a leader. Backing up from the success of J-Braid, J-Thread FC is a brand-new 100% fluorocarbon leader material that boasts increased abrasion resistance and super-low memory. Made in Japan from the finest raw materials, J-Thread FC features a low-memory core, improving handling characteristics and improving knot performance. The outer layer is treated to increase hardness and resilience to abrasion. It’s available in 4-80lb breaking strains in 100 or 50m spools. Another new release from Daiwa is the updated Double Clutch colour range. A jerkbait with few peers, the Double Clutch continues to set the standard as the ultimate suspending twitchbait. Available in three sizes (60mm, 75mm, and 95mm), the colour range has been enhanced and standardised across the range, with the 20 available colours now available in every size. The 75mm and 95mm Double Clutches have also been upgraded with Owner ST36BC trebles, which are razor sharp and ultra strong. www.daiwafishing.com.au
Meet Slick, Dodge and Duke – the front rowers of the new Samaki Sunglass range. These three frames have been tried and tested by the team to ensure there’s a model to suit everyone, from the square-shaped Slick to the wrap-around Duke and Dodge. Each one designed to hug the face, give great coverage from the elements and provide you with the polarised lenses you need when you’re out on the water. The Samaki team say these sunnies are so comfortable you won’t want to take them off. All the lenses are a polarised grey tint with the option of a reflective external in either green or blue mirror. With matt black or gloss frames, the superior frame material is comfortable for the extended wear. Additionally, the Dodge is a floating model, so if you drop it into the drink you can just grab the net and get it back. Price: RRP $49.95 www.samaki.com.au
JM Gillies has released two new realistic lures: the Gillies Shrimp and the Gillies Vibe. The new Shrimp have a natural shape with realistic legs, antennae and also feature bright three-dimensional eyes. The body is ultra soft for a natural feel and look. The 68mm and 100mm version come rigged with premium extra sharp hooks. The new Gillies Vibe combines the realistic soft X-Flex body and the vibration of a hard vibe bait into one. It features meticulous attention to detail, and its uniquely designed forked tail allows additional vibrations upon retrieval with a seductive, tight wiggling action that mimics a live fish. Gillies Vibes are the perfect bait for barramundi, snapper and many other species, and are fitted with extra strong VMC Spark Point hooks that allow you to target your favourite species with ease. Gillies Vibes are definitely a great all-round lure for both freshwater and saltwater predators. www.jmgillies.com.au
Please email contributions to: nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au JANUARY 2019
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WHAT’S NEW FISHING MUSTAD FLASHER RIGS
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Mustad has released two new Flasher Rigs onto the market – the UltraPoint Octopus Flasher Rig and the UltraPoint Circle Flasher Rig. These 2-hook rigs rigs are user friendly, and can be used to target snapper or any other reef species. Suitable for jigging while drifting and also for bottom fishing, UltraPoint Octopus and UltraPoint Circle Flasher rigs are built using high quality Mustad UltraPoint hooks and 60lb leaders to maximise the flasher’s action while still being suitable for serious fish. These rigs are also suitable for tipping with bait to enhance their appeal to a wider variety of fish, which includes the likes of pearl perch, flathead, kingfish and more. The Octopus Flasher Rig uses the famous Mustad Octopus hook and has blue and red flashing with a generous pearlescent Fish Skin across the back of the hook. The Circle Flasher Rig uses the Mustad 39953 circle hook and is finished with chartreuse/green flashing. Fishing deep or shallow, with or without bait, the new Mustad Flasher Rigs will provide great options for anglers across the country. www.wilsonfishing.com
BLACKWOLF SKYRUNNER PACK
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The BlackWolf Skyrunner Transit Rolling Travel Pack is tough, durable and versatile. It has a multitude of compartments to keep you organised, including the easily accessible main zippered compartment. Coupled with lockable No.10 zips to prevent theft and a state-of-the-art side compression system to help keep your gear in place, it anticipates travel needs at every turn. Choosing what to leave behind when travelling is time-consuming. Pack more gear and make use of the Skyrunner’s dynamic expansion gusset, which allows you to increase the capacity of your pack—for more room and fewer hassles. There’s an ergoharness that can be packed away when not in use and a two-stage handle for total command over the unit. Unlike many rolling travel packs, the Skyrunner isn’t just made for airports. With durable, all-terrain 4WD wheels, BlackWolf’s Skyrunner can successfully tackle rocky, rough and uneven surfaces alike. With a limited lifetime warranty, the Skyrunner is a testament to thoughtful travel design. Price: SRP $299.99 (60L), $319.99 (80L) www.blackwolf.com.au
PRODUCT GUIDE
happens, the Swiss Champ Wood is the essential fix-it solution that should always be with you. Price: $239 www.victorinox.com
WILSON PLATINUM 16 BACKPACK Designed specifically for fishing, the Wilson Platinum Series Backpack allows anglers to carry just about everything they need on their backs. At the heart of the new system is the side access to the internal cargo area. The lets you easily keep the backpack over one shoulder while accessing the internal cargo area, so you don’t have to remove the backpack while you’re fishing. Other features include three tackle trays inside the main cargo area that are sealed to provide waterproof boxes that will let you bring a mountain of tackle. An external sunglass holder and a retractable tool lanyard are also included. There are also four external zippered pockets for accessories such as leader, fishing gloves and more, as well as two Velcro secured tool holders and a massive front flap with even more storage for items such as plastics, spare hooks and more. The top pocket also features an elastic webbing for securing jumpers or rain jackets, and the adjustable shoulder straps are padded for comfort and feature a chest strap for a more secure and ergonomic carry of the load. Heavy cord with sturdy plastic sleeves are used on all zippers to ensure that even cold hands can easily open the zippers. www.wilsonfishing.com
RAPALA SPLIT RING PLIERS
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The new Rapala RCD 4” Mag Spring Split Ring Pliers offer easy to use, singlehanded operation. Unlike conventional split ring pliers, the new Rapala RCD series are built with two internally opposing magnets to hold the pliers open. The patent pending Mag Spring mechanism cannot fail, even in the harshest of conditions. The split ring nose opens rings up to size 0, while the built-in cutter cuts all lines or tag ends with ease. Other features include stainless steel jaws with a gun metal finish, and ergonomic co-moulded Soft Grip handles for a comfortable hold. In a nutshell, the RCD Split Ring Pliers are one of the easiest, quickest and toughest built split rings pliers on the market. Keep an eye out for them at your local tackle store. www.rapala.com.au
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STORM COASTAL SWISS CHAMP WOOD 18 15 TRICK TAIL KNIFE Anglers will love how the new Storm 360
Victorinox is now giving some of its most iconic knife models a revamp with walnut wood sourced sustainably from European forests. Each knife boasts a unique casing due to the natural wood grain. One of the new models is the Swiss Champ Wood pocket knife, which is a modern day upgrade of the original Swiss Army Knife – the legendary Officer’s Knife. With more than 29 functions and countless possibilities within it, including a ruler, pliers and a screwdriver, it is the perfect tool for almost any situation. There is a bottle opener and a corkscrew to kick off any celebration, a fish scaler and a wood saw for camping, a nail file, sewing awl, as well as some classic features such as a blade, screwdrivers and scissors. So wherever you are and whatever 50
JANUARY 2019
GT Coastal Trick Tail works the water. This soft jerkbait has a fleeing baitfish action, and its ability to change direction is extraordinary. If you stop the retrieve, and rather than slacking off, the Trick Tail will rock back and forth like a stressed baitfish. Its webbed tail continues to pump on the fall, or alternatively you can simply pinch out the webbing to switch to a more traditional wiggle effect. The Storm 360 GT Coastal Trick Tail has a slotted back and belly for easy and balanced rigging. It is 5” long and is currently available in eight fish-catching colours, and we’re sure to see many species fall victim to its enticing action. Keep an eye out for it at your favourite tackle store. www.stormfishing.com.au
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visit www.tacklejunkie.fish for the latest tackle news - AS IT HAPPENS!
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PRODUCT GUIDE
WHAT’S NEW FISHING
Black Magic Snapper Snacks and KLT hooks Recently we received a package from Black Magic, and in it were a handful of the premade Snapper Snacks flasher rigs, and some of their new rust resistant KLT circle hooks. We sent them out to some of our valued contributors, and this is what they came back with.
TESTED
coated KLT circle hook. This KLT circle hook is designed so that fish will hook themselves. They are most effective on fish if the angler resists the temptation to strike at the bite. The PTFE coating also makes the hook super slick, to assist penetration. I gave them a run on the Murray River cod opening weekend. We spent some
Hungry snapper just can’t resist the Black Magic Snapper Snack flasher rigs.
NEIL SLATER Black Magic have released Snapper Snacks, which incorporate a variety of tantalising, UV fish-attracting material and a glow skirt. The glow skirt works best in deeper water, where light does not penetrate as well, or after dark. If you want to use the glow skirt after dark, use a torch, phone light or camera flash and check it after an hour or so and reapply if necessary. These are designed to be used on a paternoster rig so the Snack sits as a visual attractant above the sea floor. They incorporate a rust resistant, PTFE
time in banana lounges and nobody was getting up to attempt to set any hooks. The KLT hooks did an excellent job where the rods were left alone to allow the hook to do its work, as any good circle hook should do. ALLAN BEVAN I had the very good fortune to have Black Magic send me two of the new offerings: the Black Magic Snapper Snack flasher rig and the KLT chemically sharpened hooks. The KLT chemically sharpened hooks are the bomb – they are strong yet fine gauge, and are like a cross between a wide gape and circle hook with the recurve ‘self hooking’ design, pinning fish in the corner of the mouth. With sizes through the range up to a 7/0, these hooks are for all styles of fishing from sweetwater to offshore bait
fishing. My own favourite has been the 1/0 for King George whiting, and it has done wonders for the hook up rate and they are easy to unhook, with all the fish hooked in the corner of the mouth. The Snapper Snack flasher rig is a two hook paternoster rig with the KLT hooks, lumo bead and flasher material that normally catches the fish in the
corner of their mouth. They are great to use in deep water or at night. By adding a small amount of bait you end up with the benefits of both lure and bait. The very first one that I dropped down in 50m was monstered as soon as it hit the bottom, with a double header of breaksea cod and snapper!
Neil Slater found the KLT hooks to be great for bait fishing on the Murray for cod and carp.
JANUARY 2019
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Trades, Services, Charter BAIT & TACKLE METRO TackleHQ Kingsley (08) 9309 4200 WA Bait Supply O’Connor (08) 9314 1755 Castaway Tackle Malaga (08) 9248 3800 Gun-Mart & Tackle Midvale (08) 9274 5699 Earlybird Bait Rockingham (08) 9527 3333 Bluewater Tackle World Morley (08) 9375 9800 Bluewater Tackle World Myaree (08) 9330 7766 Bluewater Tackle World Joondalup (08) 6244 0344 Bluewater Tackle Mindarie (08) 9407 9766 Tim’s Tackle Plus Guildford (08) 6161 0044 Baitmate-Bricap Wangara (08) 9309 5474 Compleat Angler Nedlands (08) 9389 1337 Anglers Anonymous Fishing Tackle Supplies Canning Vale (08) 9455 2521 Tackle World Miami (08) 9534 5533 Dawe’s Bait & Tackle Mandurah (08) 9534 6661 Fishing WA Pro Tackle Wangara (08) 9409 2253 Hillarys Boat & Tackle Hillarys (08) 9401 4331 Sportsmarine Bunbury (08) 9721 4961 Anglers Fishing World South Fremantle (08) 9433 4768
Anglers Fishing World
FISHING GUIDES/CHARTERS Apache Charters South Fremantle (08) 9339 2432 West End Charters Winthrop WA 6150 (08) 9332 4303 Blue Juice Charters (08) 9401 4666 Mills Charters Hillarys (08) 9246 5334 Achievement Charters Fremantle 0418 655 188 Port Bouvard Charters Wannanup 0477 347 465 Blue Horizon Fishing Charters Exmouth 08) 9949 1620 Fly Fishing Frontiers Exmouth 0427 366 142 Top Gun Charters EXMOUTH 0418 925 131 Diversity Bluewater Adventures Exmouth Exmouth 0488 009 989 Set The Hook Exmouth 0433 049 988 Esperance Diving And Fishing Esperance (08) 9071 5111 Duke Charters Condingup (08) 9076 6223 Black Jack Charters Bandy Creek 0429 106 960 Spinners Charters Emu Point (08) 9844 1906 Great Southern Discovery Albany 0455 105 127 SHIKARI Charters Fremantle 0412 131 958 Evolution Fishing Charters 0477 901 445 Kalbarri land Based fishing Carters 0418930695 Tailored Treks - Lancelin 0427 941 126 Perth Fishing Safaris 0422 686 363
ONLINE TACKLE PRODUCTS FG Wizz www.fgwizz.com.au
NOW YOU CAN TIE THE PERFECT FG KNOT EVERY TIME
www.anglersfishingworld.com.au Tackle World & Outdoors Mandurah (08) 9581 6953 Getaway Outdoors Balcatta (08) 9344 7343 Getaway Outdoors Cockburn (08) 9417 4644 Getaway Outdoors Joondalup (08) 9300 1330 Getaway Outdoors Kelmscott (08) 9495 4444 Getaway Outdoors Mandurah (08) 9581 8877
ROCKINGHAM Compleat Angler & Camping World -Rockingham (08) 9528 5255 Port Kennedy Cycles and Fishing (08) 9524 6774 Whitey’s Tackle & Camping Australind (08) 9797 0762
ALBANY Albany Rods & Tackle (08) 9841 1231 Trailblazers Albany (08) 9841 7859
ESPERANCE Tatey’s Bait ‘n’ Tackle Castletown (08) 9071 5003 Esperance Camping & Workwear Esperance (08) 9071 2142
DONGARA & GERALDTON Dongara Sport & Tackle Dongara (08) 9927 1196 Geraldton Sports Centre (08) 9921 3664 Getaway Outdoors Geraldton (08) 9965 3766
CARNARVON
WALPOLE – MANJIMUP – PEMBERTON Peaceful Bay Caravan Park Peaceful Bay (08) 9840 8060 Peaceful Bay Chalets Peaceful Bay (08) 9840 8169 Rest Point Holiday Village Walpole (08) 9840 1032 Coalmine Beach Holiday Park Walpole (08) 9840 1026 Riverside Retreat Walpole, (08) 9840 1255 Nornalup Riverside Chalets Nornalup (08) 9840 1107 Pemberton Caravan Park Pemberton (08) 9776 1300 Warren Way Caravan Park Balbarrup (08) 9771 1060 Manjimup Central Caravan Park & Deli Manjimup (08) 9777 2355 RAC Karri Valley Resort Beedelup (08) 9776 2020 Big Brook Arboretum Pemberton (08) 9776 1207 One Tree Bridge Chalets Manjimup (08) 9777 1196
AUGUSTA Flinders Bay Caravan Park Augusta (08) 9780 5636 Molloy Caravan Park Kudardup (08) 9758 4515 Turner Caravan Park Augusta (08) 9780 5633 Hamelin Bay Holiday Park Hamelin Bay (08) 9758 5540 Sheoak Chalets Augusta Augusta (08) 9758 1958
MARGARET RIVER
NO MORE bulky braid/leader joins
SEE IT! .. BUY IT! .. www.fgwizz.com.au HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION ESPERANCE Esperance Bay Holiday Park Esperance (08) 9071 2237 Bathers Paradise Caravan Park Esperance (08) 9071 1014 Pine Grove Holiday Park Esperance (08) 9071 4100 Pink Lake Tourist Park Nulsen (08) 9071 2424 Esperance Seafront Caravan Park Castletown (08) 9071 1251 Ocean Beach Holiday Units Esperance (08) 9071 5942 Esperance Chalet Village Bandy Creek (08) 9071 1861 Esperance Beachfront Resort Esperance (08) 9071 2513 Munglinup Beach Holiday Park Munglinup (08) 9075 1155
HOPETOUN – BREMER BAY Wavecrest Village & Tourist Park Hopetoun (08) 9838 3888 Hopetoun Caravan Park Hopetoun (08) 9838 3096 Bremer Bay Caravan Park Bremer Bay (08) 9837 4018 Bremer Bay Beaches Resort & Tourist Park Bremer Bay (08) 9837 4290
ALBANY Cheynes Beach Caravan Park Cheynes (08) 9846 1247 BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park Albany (08) 9844 1147 BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park Middleton Beach (08) 9841 3593 Kalgan River Chalets & Caravan Park Kalgan (08) 9844 7937
Carnarvon Tackle & Marine (08) 9941 4161
KALBARRI Kalbarri Sports & Dive (08) 9937 1126
EXMOUTH Tackle World Exmouth (08) 9949 1315 Exmouth Tackle & Camping Supplies (08) 9949 1179
BUSSELTON 2 Oceans Tackle (08) 9752 4924 Geographe Camping & Tackle World (08) 9754 2909
BOAT HIRE BlueSun2 Boat Charters Ardross 0405 353 353 Boating West O’Connor 0429 887 798 Boat Hire Perth Mindarie 0403 095 868
DENMARK Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park Denmark (08) 9848 1262 Denmark Ocean Beach Holiday Park Denmark (08) 9848 1105 Karri Aura Caravan Park & Motel Suites Shadforth (08) 9848 2200 Denmark Waterfront Denmark (08) 9848 1147
Prevelly Caravan Park Prevelly Park (08) 9757 2374 Gracetown Caravan Park Gracetown (08) 9755 5301 Riverview Tourist Park Margaret River (08) 9757 2270 Margaret River Tourist Park (08) 9757 2180
Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour Mews Road, Fremantle WA 6160
(08) 9433 4768
Emu Beach Chalets Emu Point (08) 9844 8889 Albany Holiday Units Middleton Beach (08) 9841 7817 Havana Villas Albany (08) 9844 1085 Lilacs Waterfront villas & cottages Robinson (08) 9841 2390
Albany Happy Days Caravan Park King River (08) 9844 3267 Albany Holiday Park Albany (08) 9841 7800 King River Palms Caravan Park Willyung (08) 98443232 Two Peoples Caravan Park Kalgan (08) 9846 4024
YALLINGUP – DUNSBOROUGH Caves Caravan Park Yallingup (08) 9755 2196 Yallingup Beach Holiday Park 1800 220 002 Dunsborough Lakes Holiday Resort (08) 9756 8300 Dunsborough Beach Cottages (08) 9756 8885
BUSSELTON RAC Busselton Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9755 4241 Busselton Villas & Caravan Park Busselton (08) 9752 1175 Geographe Bay Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9752 4396 Lazy Days Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9752 1780 Amblin Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9755 4079 Four Seasons Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9755 4082 Busselton Holiday Village Busselton (08) 9752 4499 Sandy Bay Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9752 2003 Fourseasons Holiday Park Busselton (08) 9755 4082 Busselton Beachfron Busselton (08) 9755 2607 Busselton Jetty Chalets Busselton (08) 9752 3893
BUNBURY Bunbury Glade Caravan Park Bunbury 1800 113 800 Discovery Parks - Bunbury (08) 9795 7100 Binningup Beach Caravan Park Bunbury (08) 9720 1057 Riverside Cabin Park Bunbury (08) 9725 1234 Leschenault Caravan Park Bunbury (08) 9797 1095 Waterloo Village Caravan Park Bunbury (08) 9725 4434 Brunswick Junction Caravan Park Bunbury (08) 9726 1544 Taralea Farm Bunbury (08) 9728 1252 Australind Tourist Park Bunbury (08) 9725 1206
MANDURAH Pinjarra Caravan Park Mandurah (08) 9531 1374 Mandurah Caravan & Tourist Park Mandurah (08) 9535 1171 Belvedere Caravan Park Mandurah (08) 9535 1213 The Dwellingup Chalet and Caravan Park (08) 9538 1157 Waroona Caravan Village (08) 9733 1518 Timber Top Caravan Park (08) 9535 1292 Lake Clifton Caravan Park (08) 9739 1255 Miami Holiday Park (08) 9534 2127 Tathams Caravan Park (08) 9537 6844 Peel Caravan Park (08) 9535 4343 Lake Navarino Holiday Park (08) 9733 3000 Estuary Hideaway Holiday Park 0407 838 061 Pinjarrah Holiday Park (08) 9531 1604 Waters Edge Caravan Park 0427 281 622 Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets (08) 9535 8173 Murray River Caravan Park (08) 9537 6140 Footprints Preston Beach (08) 9739 1111
This section in WA 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. 54
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Boats & Guided Fishing Tours Directory MOORE RIVER – LANCELIN – CERVANTES Guilderton Caravan Park (08) 9577 1021 Branchys Holiday Homes Guilderton (08) 9577 1321
JURIEN BAY – GREEN HEAD – LEEMAN Jurien Bay Tourist Park Jurien Bay (08) 9652 1595 Green Head Caravan Park Green Head (08) 9953 1131 Leeman Caravan Park Leeman (08) 9953 1080
DONGARA – GERALDTON Seaspray Beach Holiday Park Dongara (08) 9927 1165 Dongara Tourist Park Port Denison (08) 9927 1210 Leander Reef Holiday Park Port Denison (08) 9927 1840 Port Denison Holiday Units (08) 9927 1104 Double Beach Caravan Park (08) 9921 5845 Batavia Coast Caravan Park (08) 9938 1222 Drummond Cove Holiday Park (08) 9938 2524 Horrocks Beach Caravan Park (08) 9934 3039
KALBARRI
Chandlers Marine Service Wangara (08) 9303 9366
DERBY Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park (08) 9193 1055 West Kimberley Lodge & Caravan Park (08) 9191 1031
Mobile Marine WA Osborne Park 0428 225 877 GP Marine Cockburn Central 0408 913 104 Hitech Marine Wangara (08) 9309 2888
KUNUNURRA Town Caravan Park (08) 9168 1763 Wyndham Caravan Park (08) 9161 1064 Lake Argyle Caravan Park (08) 9168 7777 Discovery Parks - Lake Kununurra (08) 9168 1031 Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park | Kununurra (08) 9168 1280 Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort (08) 9169 1995 Lake Argyle Resort (08) 9168 7777 Hidden Valley Caravan Park (08) 9168 1790 Kununurra Lakeside Resort (08) 9169 1092 El Questro Wilderness Park 1800 837 168 Kona Lakeside Caravan Park (08) 9161 1139
BOATS Aquasports Marine Midvale (08) 9250 3339
Bravo Marine Services Bayswater (08) 9272 9300 Seasport Marine Kelmscott (08) 9498 1799 The Boat Business Henderson (08) 9437 5144 Total Marine Repairs Mandurah (08) 9582 7211 West Coast Boat Works Perth Landsdale 0439 969 459 Boat Lifters Blue HQ Perth (08) 9239 9333 Bravo Marine Services Bayswater (08) 9272 9300 Perth Boat Mechanics Huntingdale 0405 593 786 GP Marine Cockburn Central 0408 913 104 Platinum Boating Maintenance Wangara 0402 477 656 Parker Marine Fremantle (08) 9336 6979 Westmarine Boating Services Fremantle WA 0425 177 700
MARINE ACCESSORIES
Murchison River Caravan Park Kalbarri (08) 9937 1005 Kalbarri Anchorage Caravan Park Kalbarri (08) 9937 1181 Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park Kalbarri (08) 9937 1077 Murchison House Station Kalbarri (08) 9937 1998 Kalbarri Beach Bungalows A & B Kalbarri (08) 9937 0400 Murchison caravan park Kalbarri (08) 9937 0400 Kalbarri Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri (08) 9937 2442
Challenge Batteries Osborne Park (08) 9446 6122 JPW Marine Wholesale Distributors Perth (08) 6253 3000 Whitworths Marine & Leisure - Leerderville (08) 9381 1442 Crackpots Marine Supplies O’Connor (08) 9337 2211 Hydrowave – www.hydrowaveaustralia.com
SHARK BAY Denham Seaside Caravan Park, (08) 9948 1242 Shark Bay Caravan Park (08) 9948 1387 Blue Dolphin Caravan Park and Holiday Village Denham (08) 9948 1385 Oceanside Village Denham Shark Bay (08) 9948 3003 Bay Lodge Denham Shark Bay WA (08) 9948 1278 RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort (08) 9948 1320
$449 USD
CARNARVON Wintersun Caravan and Tourist Park (08) 9941 8150 Capricorn Holiday Park (08) 9941 8153 Outback Oasis Caravan Park (08) 9941 1439 Carnarvon Caravan Park (08) 9941 8101 Norwesta Lifestyle Park (08) 9941 1277 Coral Coast Tourist Park (08) 9941 1438
CORAL BAY Peoples Park (08) 9942 5933 Bayview Coral Bay (08) 9385 6655 Ningaloo Club (08) 9948 5100 Ningaloo Reef Resort (08) 9942 5934
WA DEALER OF THE YEAR
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
WHY DEAL WITH ANYONE ELSE? 331 Great Eastern Hwy, Midvale, WA 6056
Ph: (08) 9250 3339
GET ONBOARD
All Boats and Caravans Kingsley (08) 9309 4200
MARINE TRIMMERS
John’s Motor Trimmers Auto & Marine Upholstery Welshpool (08) 9470 5531 G.K. Trimmers Canning Vale (08) 9455 7144 Prestige Marine Trimmers Perth (08) 9303 9536 McCarroll Motor & Marine Trimmers Osborne Park (08) 9244 1449 Exclusive Marine Trimming & Upholstery O’Connor (08) 9314 6882 Universal Marine & Automotive Upholstery O’Connor 08) 9314 1770
DAMPIER
Broome Caravan Park (08) 9192 1776 Discovery Parks - Broome (08) 9192 1366 Broome Vacation Village Caravan Park Broome (08) 9192 1057 Cable Beach Caravan Park Broome (08) 9192 2066 Tarangau Caravan Park Broome (08) 9193 5084
Searano Marine Malaga (08) 9248 2242
Waters Edge Marine Trimmers Leeming 0412 204 085
Discovery Parks - Onslow (08) 9184 6007 Ocean View Caravan Park (08) 9184 6053
BROOME
Whitworths Marine & Leisure - Mosman Park (08) 9385 5877
Mason Marine Trimmers O’Connor 0418 923 787
ONSLOW
PORT HEDLAND
Offshore Marine Guildford (08) 6278 1299
The Trim Shop (08) 9430 5332
Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park (08) 9949 1478 Yardie Homestead Caravan Park (08) 9949 1389 Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort (08) 9949 2377 RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park 1800 871 570 Exmouth Escape Resort (08) 9949 4800 Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, Exmouth (08) 9949 0000
Discovery Parks Port Hedland (08) 9173 1271 Port Tourist Park Port Hedland (08) 9172 4111 Blackrock Tourist Park South Hedland (08) 9172 3444 Landing Resort Port Hedland (08) 9172 4111
www.hydrowaveaustralia.com
Bluewater Marine (08) 9791 1499
EXMOUTH
Dampier Transit Caravan Park (08) 9183 1109 Discovery Parks - Pilbara, Karratha (08) 9185 1855 Karratha Caravan Park (08) 9185 1012 Discovery Parks - Balmoral, Karratha (08) 9185 3628 Harding River Caravan Park (08) 9182 1063 Aspen Karratha Village Baynton (08) 9185 2726 Karratha Apartments Karratha (08) 9143 9222 Searipple Village Karratha Bulgarra (08) 9158 7400 Karratha Village Karratha 1300 321 669
(includes shipping)
John’s mobile trimmers Jandakot (08) 9417 4414 Cutting Edge Marine Trimming O’Connor 0432 062 834 Mandurah Motor Trimmers Greenfields (08) 9581 8180
WELDING & MANUFACTURING 18 HAWKINS ST, EAST BUNBURY, WA 6230
(08)
9791 1499
CSD Designs Bayswater 0407 772 010 XFactor Signs 0413 113 828
Northbank Fibreglass Boats @northbankboats MARINE MECHANICS Falcon Services Australia Midvale 0458 852 591 Bay Marine Maintenance Crawley (08) 9386 7059 Pleisure Marine Maintenance O’Connor (08) 9337 9569 Boat Fix Balcatta (08) 9240 8778 Parker Marine Fremantle (08) 9336 6979 Matich Marine East Fremantle (08) 9339 7722
Boat Wrap Specialist www.xfactorsigns.com
Advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call 0417 901 301 or email nick@fishingmonthly.com.au JANUARY 2019
55
WHAT’S NEW BOATING MERCURY FINANCE 1 OFFER EXTENDED
RAYMARINE NEXT-GEN VHF
Great news for boat owners considering a repower this summer – Mercury Finance has extended its 3.99%* finance offer until 31 January 2019. That means a brand new 40-150hp Mercury FourStroke can be yours for the very competitive loan rate of just 3.99% (comparison rate) through Mercury Finance*. Mercury has been perfecting its FourStroke technology for decades, making its outboards lighter, stronger, fuel-efficient and more reliable, yet still able to produce the power and performance Mercury is famous for. For additional information, visit the Mercury Marine website. *Fees, terms, conditions and credit criteria apply. Offer is available from participating Mercury Finance Dealers. www.mercurymarine.com.au
The compact Raymarine Ray53, full-sized Ray63 and the multifunction Ray73 with AIS are all full-function VHF marine radios with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC). Each model is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver and connection point for an optional GPS/GNSS antenna, which improves the GPS reception when the radio is mounted below deck or in an enclosed pilothouse. Additionally, Ray63 and Ray73 can connect to Raymarine’s new wireless VHF hub and can support up to two wireless handset stations for wireless communication anywhere onboard. For more information on the features of each model, visit the Raymarine website. Price: SRP $699-$1199 www.raymarine.com.au
SIMRAD ACTIVE IMAGING
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Simrad Active Imaging Sonar features advanced new scanning-sonar technology that provides incredibly detailed, highresolution imaging without sacrificing range. It replaces TotalScan transducers. Active Imaging Sonar (AI) provides incredibly clear views of structure and cover with refined detail at a range unmatched by any other structure imaging technology. It’s available in two models — 3-in-1 and standalone. AI 3-in-1 combines scanning sonar with a traditional medium/high CHIRP sonar element for easy single-transducer installation, while the standalone transducer is designed for install alongside a separate CHIRP sonar transducer. Operating at 800kHz or 455kHz, AI provides clear and precise views of structure, fish and bottom composition up to 300ft from either side of a boat. There’s no need to change frequencies while fishing; you can see where you should be fishing instead of just the immediate area at a set frequency. The Simrad Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer will be bundled with Simrad GO series displays. Price: SRP $275-$350 www.simrad-yachting.com
NAVICO NEW DISPLAY CATEGORY 3 Navico has announced the 2019 launch of a new category of marine technology — the information display (ID). Marking the first significant evolution of the multifunctional display (MFD), IDs have a configurable interface that simplifies monitoring and control of onboard systems, and is customised to each vessel. The experience-based software features pre-defined modes that display all relevant data for the current situation. Pre-defined modes include System Checks, Cruising, Anchoring and Water Sports. Custom modes can also be easily configured to builder specifications to best accentuate the utility of an individual vessel or to complement any boater’s passions (e.g. offshore sportfishing). Consisting of a bonded-glass display and a powerful integration hub, IDs will be available in Lowrance, Simrad or B&G electronics. Each solution consists of one or multiple displays bridged together to function as one integrated system. The centralized hub uses ethernet, WiFi and Bluetooth along with sonar, USB, CAN and NMEA 2000 ports to connect to all onboard systems. An easy-to-upgrade hub installation simplifies the change-out process for upgrades. www.navico.com 58
JANUARY 2019
YANMAR 4LV STERNDRIVES
PRODUCT GUIDE
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Yanmar is launching a full line-up of 4LV sterndrives to complete its 4LV series of common rail (CR) engines. The new 150250 mhp five-engine range combines with the Yanmar ZT370 sterndrive to offer exceptional acceleration, fuel efficiency, remarkably quiet operation, and low vibration to suit a wide variety of vessels. The corresponding 150Z/170Z/195Z/230Z/250Z mhp sterndrives feature the latest in electronically-managed CR fuel injection systems. The system delivers more complete combustion, adding efficiency in fuel consumption, torque and lowered emissions (all models are virtually smoke free). Features include smooth and quiet gear engagement, exceptional corrosion protection, precision-forged gears with extralong service life, the choice of electrical or mechanical shift models, and an integrated exhaust system. The ZT370 sterndrive is available in various gear ratios, All Yanmar 4LV engines with ZT370 sterndrive offer a selection of control systems, and are also available with the JC10 joystick system. An NMEA connection ensures engine data is available for all NMEA 2000 compatible MFDs. www.yanmar.com
FUSION APOLLO SERIES
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The Fusion Apollo RA770 is the world’s first purpose-built marine entertainment system. It features a one-piece glass touchscreen display, built-in Wi-Fi streaming, Digital Signal Processing Technology (DSP) and PartyBus capabilities. The touchscreen makes trying to locate the correct button a thing of the past. To pause and play you just tap the screen, or swipe through a playlist to find your favourite song. The Apollo Series harnesses the power of Fusion DSP, providing premium audio delivery to all speakers in any environment. Every step of the audio chain is optimized to deliver a technically superior listening experience – without the need for boaters to have a technical understanding. The RA770 lets you play music via Bluetooth, Optical Audio, DAB+ ready, AM/FM radio, AUX and USB. Users can also stream music from a mobile device via Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). The Apollo series can also connect multiple Apollo stereos with Wi-Fi. www.fusionentertainment.com
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Hobie Mirage Outback 2019 designed for fishers
MELBOURNE
Corey Gallagher
Hobie have a long tradition of quality and innovation. Their products have dominated kayak angling markets worldwide since the introduction of the first purpose designed, pedal propelled fishing kayak, the Mirage Outback in 2001. In the 18 years since its introduction, the Outback has undergone several key upgrades, transforming it into one of the best kayak angling platforms available. The 2019 model sees the biggest upgrade in the model’s history with a complete redesign of the hull, ensuring the Outback continues to sit atop of an ever-growing list of purpose built fishing kayaks. Like its bigger brother, the Mirage Pro Angler, the Mirage Outback was designed purely as a fishing kayak. Its new hull design and deck layout have been carefully considered and the result is an exceptional kayak that appeals to both tournament and social anglers alike. As a regular participant in the Hobie Kayak Bream Series, I have witnessed the growing popularity of the Mirage Outback amongst kayak tournament anglers in recent years. The Outback offers many advantages over rival kayaks and its lightweight hull design is a major contributor to its success. The Mirage Outback can be easily
Main: The 2019 Hobie Mirage Outback kayak is a favourite in the kayak angling community. Above: The 2019 Hobie Outback has undergone the biggest redesign in the model’s 18 year history. transported to and from your favourite fishing spot on roof racks – its manageable size and weight makes launching that much easier when fishing solo and very little room is required when storing the kayak at home. A major upgrade to the 2019 Mirage Outback is its redesigned hull, featuring a sharper bow that cuts effortlessly through the water,
SPECIFICATIONS Length Overall..........................................3.86m Beam.........................................................0.86m Crew..............................................1 (single seat) Capacity.............................................. 192.78kg Fitted Hull Weight................................. 38.56kg Fully Rigged Weight.............................. 46.72kg Hull Construction.....Rotomolded Polyethylene SRP..................................................From $4190 60
JANUARY 2019
wind, wake and chop while also greatly reducing any hull slap. The kayak is very fast off the line and gets up to speed within just a few kicks of the mirage drive 180, thanks largely to this redesigned bow. The 2019 Outback also features a completely redesigned rear deck and stern. The old twist and stow style rudder has been replaced with Hobie’s kick up rudder, the rudder is spring loaded and will bump up out of the way when it hits rocks or snags underwater. The new Outback features dual steering controls, meaning that left and right handed anglers will find manoeuvring the kayak a breeze, capable of turning in a tight circle with full rudder lock. The rear end
also features a large H-Rail carry handle that not only assists while transporting, but also allows kayak anglers a convenient place to mount Hobie H-Rail accessories, such as a Go-Pro mount. Another new addition to the stern of the 2019 Outback is it comes power pole ready with pre-drilled inserts. The large rear deck is massive in comparison to the old model and allows plenty of room for a livewell, icebox, rod holders or storage crates. The rear deck also features two recessed areas. It has a H-Track deluxe with bungee tackle retainer that allow anglers to store two 3700 size tackle trays and secure it in place using built in bungee straps. The cockpit area also features two similar recessed areas, only these come equipped with a H-Rail, giving the angler even more storage and accessory mounting options. The four H-Track Deluxe recessed storage areas not only greatly increases the tackle storage capacity of the 2019 Outback, but also includes handy storage for your fishing pliers, braid scissors, lip grips and other fishing related tools, with bungee tie downs to keep everything secure and safe from an accidental swim overboard. Together, these features combine to make the 2019 Outback an incredibly organised kayak, everything has its place and for a tournament angler who needs quick access to their equipment, the Outback ticks all the boxes. Hobie have introduced a rectangular centre hatch into the new model as standard, an upgrade many owners of the old Outbacks retro fitted. The larger centre hatch comes standard with a tackle bucket, the perfect place to store smaller tackle trays,
leader and other frequently used items. The hatch also has a built in bottle opener for those who are keen to partake in a cold beverage while on the water. The mesh pocket on the inside of the hatch is a great place to store keys or a mobile phone. Another key upgrade to the 2019 model is the seat has been widened by 1.5”. The Vantage CTW Seat features 4-way, adjustment making it comfortable for any angler no matter your size or shape. Hobie have also introduced the Guardian retractable transducer shield to the 2019 Outback. The system protects the transducer on impact and retracts into the hull for transport. The 2019 Outback is powered by the V2 Mirage Drive 180, Hobie’s reverse capable pedal drive system featuring ARC shafts, which allow kayakers to adjust the cranks at the push of a button. The 2019 Outback is available in a large range of colours: slate blue, papaya orange, red hibiscus, ivory dune, seagrass green and camo package, which also features camo deck pads and pedal pads. I recently competed in a Hobie Kayak Series
Event out of a 2019 Outback in Mallacoota, where we experienced strong breezes for the duration of the tournament. To say I was impressed with the performance of the new hull under these testing conditions would be a huge understatement. True to Hobie’s claims, the hull slices effortlessly through the water, wind and chop and does it without losing forward momentum. Hull slap has been greatly reduced, even in the choppy conditions. Please note that the kayak featured in this article featured several aftermarket accessories including the Hobie V2 Livewell, Hobie Vantage Seat Bag and Lowrance Elite 9 Ti Sounder. The Hobie Mirage Outback is an extremely versatile kayak that appeals to a broad range of anglers. It is feature packed in a lightweight package, adding further to its appeal. The Outback has long been a favourite among the kayak angling community and the 2019 model, with its upgraded storage options and improved hull design, will ensure that this kayak continues as one of the best options for kayak anglers looking to purchase a new yak.
The lightweight hull makes the 2019 Outback perfect for those looking for a feature packed kayak that is still easily transported on a roof rack.
Pre-drilled inserts allow a Power Pole Micro to be mounted directly onto the hull. The rear cargo area has been significantly increased and features two H-Track deluxe with bungee tackle retainer systems. New for 2019, the Vantage Seat CTW features an extra 1.5” width.
Hobie’s innovative H-Track deluxe with H-Rail integrated track is a multipurpose addition to the 2019 Outback, excellent for mounting all manner of accessories and storing tackle trays up to 3700 size.
The new Outback is powered by the reverse capable V2 Hobie Mirage Drive 180. A vertically mounted rectangular hatch now comes as standard.
A ‘reclined’ seating position in the new Outback.
The Hobie Guardian retractable transducer shield has been introduced into the new model.
The twist and stow rudder has been replaced by a kick up rudder mounted under the stern of the kayak.
The cockpit of the 2019 Outback has been carefully designed and now features plenty of storage and accessory mounting options.
The new design features a sharper bow that effortlessly cuts through water, wind, wake and chop and allows the kayak to get up to speed quickly. JANUARY 2019
61
Stabicraft 1550 Side Console with 70hp Suzuki - SC
TENT -
RE ONLINE MO
T
Main: Ross Tizard’s Stabicraft 1550 is set up ideally for his Mandurah lifestyle, which includes bream fishing, crabbing and sneaking offshore for snapper. Above: The Stabicraft’s excellent stability comes from welded external tubes that add flotation to each gunwale. 62
JANUARY 2019
buoyancy of the rig, with the compromise being reduced internal beam. There are a few things that Ross has done to counter the reduction of room, including the addition of a fold-away helm seat for the driver and high internal gunwales in the cockpit. The console is broad and provides protection from a little wind spray. It easily holds all of the gauges and switches Ross needs for his daily boat operation. Also unique to the Stabicraft as a long sub-gunwale shelf that can easily accommodate a couple of fishing rods and all of Ross’ accessories that he needs ready-to-hand. “The wide gunwales also provide an excellent place to sit,” Ross added. On the port side of the transom, a large, windowed live bait tank allows you to keep an eye on your catch or livies and ensure that they’re in prime condition. The raised front deck gives you a place to cast lures from while under Minn Kota power, however Ross’ Stabicraft also comes with raised rails so you can get up there when it’s a little rough. Ross admits that he’s not the world’s smallest man, and appreciates the extra support up front. Important to Ross is that the rig is easily launchable and manoeuvrable singlehanded, as he often ventures out on his own to hunt and gather. The single-axled Dunbier trailer facilitates this, and he has a system
DE FOR EX
It’s not that often that we get to head out with a dealer’s customer to do a boat test, but Scott De Mouncey of Mandurah Motor Marine was 100% confident that his repeat customer, Ross Tizard, was the perfect advocate for his New Zealand built Stabicraft boat range. Ross is now on his second Stabicraft, with the 1550 being an upgrade from a smaller Stabi that he
Let’s have a look at how he’s done it. The 1550 hull is fitted with a 70HP Suzuki 4-stroke outboard which gives Ross wonderful economy – up to 4.25km/L at 3700rpm and 35km/h – giving a theoretical range of over 300km in ideal conditions. In Ross’ case, this means that it’s often a long time between service station visits to fuel up. Stabicraft hulls are unique in the way that they incorporate welded aluminium airtight tubes into the hull design. These increase the stability and
CO
s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au
owned previously. He was happy to take us out on the Mandurah estuary on a windy afternoon to show us just what it could do. Ross is retired, and he’s pretty particular about what he needs his boat to do. Whether it is crabbing, chasing black bream up the Murray River or sneaking offshore to chase a few snapper, Ross’ boat needs to be able to handle all of these activities and be able to do it by himself. That includes single-handed launch and retrieve and boat positioning on the water.
R
Steve Morgan
Q
RA
CON
AN THE
FMG
SPECIFICATIONS Length......................................................4.72m Capacity ............................................ 5 persons Max HP ..........................................................75 Fuel ..............................................................85L External beam .........................................2.02m Internal beam ..........................................1.46m Transom deadrise ........................................15° Tube thickness .......................................2.5mm Hull thickness............................................4mm Hull weight .............................................. 415kg worked out with a couple of ropes that makes it all look too easy. “I really love the build quality of the Stabicraft boats, and maybe it also has a little to do with the fact that I’m an expatriate New Zealander,” says Ross, “but you really do feel safe in this hull. It’s a great little hull that I can use for all my types
of fishing.” Both of Ross’ Stabicraft boats have been supplied and delivered by Mandurah Motor Marine in Mandurah, WA. You can find out more on their website at www. mandurahmotormarine.com. au. As tested, Ross’ package came in at $52,500 with all electronics. Base packages start from $45,000.
Ross has perfected the single handed launch and retrieve method. Since he often fishes by himself, this is an important feature of the boat.
Fifteen degrees of transom deadrise helps the hull negotiate the often choppy waters of Peel Inlet and the Indian Ocean.
A broad console holds Ross’ fishfinder, engine gauges, radio, music and accessory switches.
It’s rare to see a transom build like this in an Aussie boat; there are cranking and trolling motor batteries in the hatch and a bait station on the top. The windowed live bait tank on the port side is particularly useful.
Supplied on a single axle Dunbier trailer, the whole rig is easily manoeuvrable in a garage and capable of being launched one-handed.
The cockpit has plenty of depth to remain fishable in rougher conditions and suits Ross’ style of fishing perfectly.
There’s a lot of Mandurah’s waterways that are speed limited. The 1550 is quiet and stable at non-planing speeds.
Boat builders often try to keep the batteries and the centre of gravity of their boats as low as possible. Sometimes this makes the batteries harder to access. The Stabicraft’s stability isn’t compromised by this setup and batteries are very easily checked.
Another day in the office for Ross. Retirement at Mandurah is awesome. Happy fishing, Mr Tizard!
Top and above: We loved the fold-down seat. It’s held up by two removable pins, and it stows away to give the extra room in the cockpit that Ross needs. JANUARY 2019
63
World Class Engines, World Class Support.
All recreational Mercury Outboard models from the 2.5 to 350hp range now come with 6 years of warranty coverage. A comprehensive warranty that’s supported by the strength and service expertise of one of the largest dealer networks in the country. Simply have your engine serviced at an Authorised Service Centre at the recommended servicing intervals and you’re covered by an additional 3-year factory backed warranty on top of the first 3 years. That’s a full 6 years of non-declining warranty coverage. *Terms and conditions apply for full warranty information visit mercurymarine.com.au.
mercurymarine.com.au