Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Issue 133 2018 August

August – September 2018

TASMANIAN FISHING

Print Post approved 100003074

and BOATING NEWS — ISSUE 133

Early season with big wet flies. See page 26.

TROUT TIME - Tips on Lures, Fly $5 and Regulation changes .95

PLUS Hooch’s Game season Wrap-up

A long rod can help — Craig Rist

3

Carp update — Jonah Yick IFS

10

Early season with Tasmanian lures — Michal Rybka

11

Trout season stocking, regulation changes and overview — John Diggle IFS

15

Sandy Lake Hut – The history, rebuild and reopening — MHPS

18

Magic marabou — Shane Broadby

22

Five flies to get the season started — James Sinnamon

26

Early season – Minnow lures that work — Matt Sherriff

31

What happened last opening day - and tips for this year — Laurence Farr

36

Game season wrap-up — Kelly ‘Hooch’ Hunt

40

Recreational sea fishing news

44

Reviews 44

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THE trout TRIFECTA BULLDOG CRANK • 38mm • 10 Colours • UV Colours • Dives to 2m • Weighs 4g

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LIVE FLASH MINNOW WRIGGLY

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t last it is trout season again. Not that it really closes if you must fish, but I love my river fishing and they close for three months. So I am keen to go.

In the new Tasmanian Inland Fishing Code there are quite a few changes you need to be aware of. They include: Five fish daily bag limit for most rivers, Five fish limit on a few new waters such as Little Lake, Gunns Lake, Shannon Lagon, St Clair Lagoon and more, Five Atlantic salmon limit on all inland waters, Two fish limit at Penstock Lagoon, Lake Crescent, Camerons and Bruisers lagoons - with slot limits, All angling methods now allowed at Huntsman Lake.

There are quite a few other changes as well so please ensure you understand them. Ignorance is no excuse for breaking the law.

In this issue you will find a terrific story about the history, building and subsequent rebuilding of the Sandy Lake hut by the Mountain Huts Preservation Society. It was built as a joint project between a the Northern Tasmanian Tourism and Northern Tasmanian

For more information please visit

All material is copyright and cannot be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Print Post approved; 100003074

Fishing News - Page 2

Greg French has just been published again. His new book is Water Colour and I have just read a few snippets from it. Greg is a beautiful story teller - making the mundane interesting and the interesting rivetting. His telling of events and trips and expeditions and general goings on are terrific and I for one don’t think there is another story teller like him in fishing that has been published.

Some people want ‘how to’ or guide books and articles, but I love well told anecdotes. Buy Water Colour and enjoy it.

Greg has inspired my to keep a diary again. I have done it spasmodically over the year, and many of my memories are just snippets of a day, rather than a bigger recollection. A diary doesn’t lie - unless you write it to deceive, but that would be pointless. Look back later and revel in your fishing days, where you fished, what happened and with whom.

Mike Stevens. Ed.

Mike Stevens talks fishing with Chris Wisbey ABC Statewide Saturday mornings 6.40 a.m.

Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Published by Mike Stevens: PO Box 7504, Launceston, 7250.

Mike Stevens – P: 0418 129 949 or E: mike@tasfish.com Stevens Publishing, ABN 79 095 217 299

Fisheries associations. It fell into disrepair and was later burnt down and then the area flooded. The MHPS through a lot of effort rebuilt it nearby and reopened it 7th April 2018. I and hundreds of others attended the reopening. What a great day and well done to MHPS.

For subscriptions go to www.tasfish.com, phone Mike 0418 129 949 or pay by Paypal to mike@tasfish.com - Two years $60

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GOING LONG OUT WEST FINDING THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB Craig Rist with his thoughts

I

love to try new things in fishing, especially fly fishing which is something I do whenever I can. One of the best things about fly-fishing is that I never stop learning and there is always something that makes me rethink how I can make my time on the water more enjoyable.

A few years ago I thought it would be fun to fish the Western Lakes with a 5 wt 6’6’’ split cane fly rod. It was the middle of Summer and the mayflies were in full swing. The majority of the fish were the standard 2 to 3 pound fish that were feeding hard in against the shoreline which I could easily cover using the short

rod. Then I found a much bigger fish sipping down duns much further out in the lake. Unfortunately for me step banks, covered in dense highland scrub, surrounded this corner of the lake. The fish was about 40 feet out, happily feeding away unaware of my presence. I began the casted lengthening the cast on each false cast, then everything came to a halt as I snagged the fly on the back cast. Not to worry this happens a lot back here. So I pushed back through and retrieved my fly. I started the cast again and I could just feel the fly touching the scrub behind me so I punched the cast out, shooting as

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Fishing News - Page 3

much line out as I could. But it fell short by at least 10 foot. I had a few more attempts, but after more snagging on the back cast I just couldn’t make the cast with this rod. There was nothing else I could do other than simply walk away and leave this fish feeding, which had now moved, even further out into the lake.

This really made me rethink rod length for the Western Lakes. If a short rod makes it harder to make a long high back cast, then surely a longer rod will make it easier. So with that I decided to go long with a 10 foot, 4wt Scott Radian, which if it is anything like my 6wt Radian it will be a joy to cast.

My first trip out west with my longer rod was in late October 2016 with Mark Woodhall. Mark spends all of his fishing time in the Western Lakes and knows this place and the fish that swim within its waters, very well.

Mark appreciates what it is to fish the Western Lakes and like me, he knows it’s not about catching big numbers of fish. Mark can spend a day back here and be happy with just being in this wilderness environment where he can count the spots on these truly wild fish and hopefully get an opportunity to catch one.

As usual, Mark and I started our hike in the dark well before there is any signs of light on the horizon. We were heading into the Chudleigh Lakes for yet another early season trip into the Western Lakes.

Our hopes of finding tailing fish was high as usual but it wasn’t to be on this morning, with not a tail or dimple to be seen all morning.

The first thing I noticed about this rod was the extra foot in length allowed me to have the fly line out of the rod tip while holding onto the fly using a 11 foot leader.

This made it a lot easier to make a quick, unhindered cast when every second counts. This was a big advantage

Another nice brown going back to add a few pounds.

My first opportunity to catch a fish came as I was about to cross a narrow neck leading into a small bay. I approached to within 15 foot of the shallow neck, very slowly, just in case a fish was traveling through. Sure enough there was a fish slowly swimming along towards me in a foot of water. There was no cover so I dropped to my knees, pointed the rod at the fish, and released a quick bow and arrow cast with just the leader and a foot of fly line beyond the tip.

When the black Woolly Bugger hit the water and slowly sunk the fish immediately accelerated towards the fly and ate it without hesitation.

I set the hook and my rod loaded up on a fish of around 2 pounds.

Choose a rod and a line to suit and take it to our A short dogged fight private casting park at the rear of the store. Some followed amongst the large rocks on a short call it a council car park, but we think it is a pretty line. I used the extra good casting arena. length to my advantage steering the fish away and out from under the rocks. This fish didn’t take too long to subdue and I soon had it in my hands to appreciate the amazing colours these browns seam to have 105 York St, Launceston, Tasmania. Ph: 03 6331 8944 with their bright orange www.essentialflyfisher.com.au spots and golden brown email: mike@essentialflyfisher.com.au belly.

for me especially when I needed to push through high scrub with my fly and leader in one hand and the rod held high in the other, ready to make a quick cast to an approaching fish. I now no longer need to store the leader strung back around my reel with the fly hooked into the first eye just to have the fly line through the tip.

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Meanwhile Mark had been fishing another shoreline not far from me, where he had been busy making his own luck, hooking and landing two very nice fish on his favorite Gibson’s black woolly bugger.

The day was disappearing fast and we only had a few hours left before we had to pull the rods down to make our way back out. Because I was wearing my early season wading pants, I decided to take a short cut across another narrow channel leading into a long bay. I approached the water very carefully as this was a great ambush point for any trout to lay in wait for schools of native galaxias to swim past. I slowly scanned the water edging closer and closer. Then right beneath me I saw a big yellow pectoral fin come into view. The rest of the fish was still out of view so I slowly took several steps back away from the edge. The fish was holding stationary with its head facing towards the small waves pushing into this channel. I had already changed flies to a size 8 olive barred fur fly to resemble the galaxias in many of these lakes.

Using the bow and arrow cast again, I cast the fly into the wind ahead of the fish that was lying somewhere under the bank. I could clearly see the fly naturally drifting towards where I had last seen this fish, but still no fish. I was starting to think I had already spooked it, when it suddenly appeared and seized the fly. I quickly struck and the water erupted as a solid fish took to the air after feeling the rod load up under its weight. The reel began to spin wildly as the fish made a sprint to the opposite shore. The entire fly line quickly left the rod followed by the backing. The fish was now on the other shoreline thrashing and rolling around the shallows with the leader clearly caught around a hidden rock.

Instinctively I backed off the pressure on the fish to stop the leader breaking under tension against the rock. The fish immediately settled and swam back out into the lake, pulling the leader and fly line around and off the rock. I held the rod high; keeping the line clear of the other rocks and quickly wound up the slack to regain some sort of control.

Within minutes I had most of the fly line back onto the reel where I could finally apply side strain on the long rod to gain some control. The fish gave a few more last minute runs then rolled on its side where I could finally grab hold of its tail to end the fight. This was a beautiful example of a Western Lakes trout that was easily over six pounds. Mark took a few photos then we released it to gain a few more pounds.

Fishing News - Page 6

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AFTER DECADES BUILDING STAND-OUT WADERS , WE’VE DONE A ONE-EIGHTY.

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Fishing News - Page 7

Since that first trip I have been using this rod in the Western Lakes for two seasons now and I have defiantly experienced the benefits of using a long rod in this environment.

I will say that there is one situation where using a rod of this length is not benefical and that is when I am wade polaroiding and a fish is within 2 or 3 meters of me. These are the times when I need that little 6’6’’ split cane rod just to make the cast. But with that said, I rarely have the need to wade polaroid the Western Lakes anyway. For me the advantages clearly out weigh the disadvantages.

With the biggest benefits for me being the higher back cast and less hook ups on the back cast. Especially when I’m kneeling down to cast or when I have a steep bank or trees behind me.

One other thing I have noticed is that it’s now much easier to poke the rod out over the water through a small clearing to make that side cast along an inaccessible shoreline to reach a fish.

So if you have a long rod that is only ever used for the boat or Czech nymphing, give it a try out West for a day, just to try something a little different.

Craig Rist Fishing News - Page 8

Clear water and clear skies — the Western Lakes recipe.

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STILLWATER The new SONAR Stillwater range are specifically designed for cold weather trout fishing in lake environments — just like Tasmania.

Stillwater angling presents its own unique challenges and demands. Fishing just beneath the surface film, camouflaging full sinking lines, and fishing the hang are all aspects of Stillwater fishing that we’ve addressed with our Stillwater series.

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Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface Fishing WF-4-I thru WF-8-I

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Stillwater 5’ Clear Emerger Tip

For Fishing Flies in or near the Surface Film WF-6-F/I thru WF-8-F/I

Stillwater Seamless Density

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Sinks in U-Shaped Profile Sink 3 running line, Sink 5 head, Sink 3 tip section WF-6-S thru WF-8-S

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Fishing News - Page 9

CARP UPDATE How many left?

INLAND FISHERIES SERVICE CARP MANAGEMENT PROGRAM REPORT Jonah Yick

O

ver the last 12 months we caught 106 fish from Lake Sorell, and it now looks like there are less than 50 carp (0.2% of the original population) left in the lake. By early Spring, the barrier nets were in place to stop carp swimming to spawning areas in the wetlands and traps were set to catch carp. We also set gill nets in the marshes behind the barrier nets as an added precaution.

The nets were set in strategic locations in response to the lake levels to catch mature carp looking for spawning habitat, and to catch any that got past the barriers. Seven carp were caught in the traps, with the warm weather and rising lake levels. Carp are known to respond to these environmental cues, and they start to push into the shallow marshes to look for spawning sites. The low catch rates are due to the small number of fish and low maturity levels.

Most of the carp this season were caught in gillnets set close to the edge of the lake. Trammel gillnets were the main type of gill net used for non-targeted effort because they are the best nets to catch the size range of fish. The biggest carp for the season was a female weighing 2229 grams, and had a well advanced gonad. This was the only large carp caught all season, with no other fish over 1500 grams, and the average size caught was less than 1000 grams. Quite extraordinary since these fish are now nine years old!

Picture 1. The biggest carp of the 2017/18 season; a 2.2kg female caught in a trammel gill net set close to the shore.

Transmitter fish “Judas carp” were targeted throughout the 2017/18 season however they did not lead us to any groups of fish. In total, there were 16 events where transmitter fish were actively targeted with gill nets and backpack electroshockers, when found around the shallow edges of the lake. From this only five wild carp were caught.

The low numbers of carp caught when targeting tracker fish and the lack of aggregations all suggest that there are not many carp left in the lake.

Monthly sampling for spawning started in November, ending with a large survey in March which involved a total effort of 385 backpack electrofishing minutes, 6149 fyke net hours, and the use of fine mesh dip nets. Lots of eels and golden galaxiids were caught, but there was no sign of any small carp. Surveys were also done on Lake Crescent which involved a total effort of 210 backpack electrofishing minutes in previous spawning sites. Once ag ain there was no sign of any carp in Lake Crescent, and the lake continues to be carp free since 2007. Downstream surveys in the Clyde River showed that carp are contained to Lake Sorell.

In summary, this year gave the team a feel for what is ahead, when trying to catch Picture 2. The result of targeted effort using radio the last carp in a big lake. telemetry equipment, a gill net, and backpack Fishing will need to be focused electrofishing; on the left is an expired transmitter fish and persistent, even after long which was caught in a trammel net, as a result of pin periods without any sign of a pointing a current transmitter fish on the right. carp. Things are very positive,

Fishing News - Page 10

Figure 1. Total carp captures from Lake Sorell using all methods (2011-2018).

Figure 2. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) of nontargeted gill netting during the carp fishing season (October to March) in Lake Sorell comparing 2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17, and 2017/18. and the team is motivated to keep up the fishing pressure. We will use a wide range of fishing techniques, and aim to finish off any remaining carp during Spring 2018. If all goes to plan through the coming spring and summer, a limited opening of Lake Sorell to the public may be considered late in the 2018/19 trout season.

The focus through winter will be following the transmitter fish looking for a chance to set the nets on them, as well as preparing gear for the upcoming season.

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EARLY SEASON TROUT TIPS TASMANIAN LURES THAT WORK Michal Rybka

A

lthough the beginning of the trout season is upon us here in Tasmania, temperatures are still very cold around the entire state. As many would know, it is also not uncommon to encounter snowfalls during fishing trips, especially early in the season. The Central Highland lakes are a popular destination for many anglers, but so too are the many lowland rivers and streams found throughout the state. So, it is time to rug up in some thermals and neoprene waders and get out there for a fish!

Cold water and no insect hatches mean that trout won’t actively feed on the surface of the water. While dry flies have limited effectiveness at this time of the year, wet flies, stripped on sinking lines will certainly work to produce the first fish of the season for many anglers. I have indeed caught many fish this way using large ‘zonker’ style flies. A couple of seasons ago, I tied a really scruffy ‘zonker’ style fly

from materials found around the home. It consisted of rabbit fur, brown dog fur and quail hackle. When wet, all of those natural materials blended really nicely and gave the appearance of a lake galaxias. It was no surprise that the brown trout loved it, but my fishing buddy, Ando, hated it!

Like many of you, I love my fly fishing; however, hardbodies and soft plastics do still make up a large portion of my fishing, especially early in the season. The reason for this is simply because lures of this type are very effective and easy to use.

They can also be rigged a lot faster than, for example, a fly rod with a team of 3 sinking wets. And of course, soft plastics have the added advantage of scent and a life-like appearance when rigged and fished properly. With this in mind, here are a few tips on what Tasmanian lure works and and how to use them on opening weekend.

It can snow any month of the year in the Central Highlands.

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Fishing News - Page 11

Lakes

Such cold water in the Highland Lakes means that trout will still be sluggish, taking their time in chasing your offerings. It is a well-known that trout do behave differently in cold water. With the absence of insects on the water’s surface, it’s only reasonable to expect that trout will feed closer to the bottom, where most of the food will be. As a result, my best tip for any angler chasing lake trout early in the season is to simply fish deep and slow. Your lure, fly or soft plastic should be presented slowly and as close to the bottom as you can get it. This simple tactic gives the trout plenty of time to see your offering. The trout will also often need sufficient time to examine whatever you put in front of them before committing to a take.

At this time of year, common trout food sources in many Tasmanian Highland lakes include galaxias, shrimp and snails. Weed beds provide food and shelter for all three of these trout food sources. Galaxias are also commonly found around rocky shorelines and outcrops of the lakes that support them.

If you choose to fish deep and slow, and your boat is equipped with a sounder, you should be looking for some deeper weed beds. Work your hardbody or soft plastic very slowly just above the weeds. Since the weed beds hold the natural food sources mentioned earlier, trout will not be far away.

If you are chasing galaxias-feeding trout, then try your luck around the rocky shorelines or outcrops of a Fishing News - Page 12

lake. Try to target areas where the wind has been (or is) blowing into the shoreline. A good indicator on a calmer day is a build-up of white foam around the shore that was subjected to earlier winds. The pounding action of waves against rocks will often kill or stun galaxias. This presents trout with an easy opportunity to ‘mop up’. It is also an easy opportunity for anglers to catch those trout!

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TASMANIAN BRAND LURES FOR LAKES: Soft plastics

Strike Tiger 3” minnow in black n gold, stealth tiger and mint jelly.

Strike Tiger 2” t-tail in black n gold, stealth tiger and mint jelly.

Strike Tiger 2” bug in black n gold, black caviar, copper berry and bubblegum.

Hard body lures

Hawk 60 mm sniper minnow in killer wasp, gold/ black orange belly, rainbow trout and spotted fury.

Cranka 59 mm minnow in golden trout, rusty gold, jolly tail and fire trout.

Rivers and Streams

Popular trout fishing rivers in Tassie include the South Esk River, the North Esk River, the Macquarie River, the Meander River, the St Patrick’s River, the Mersey River, the Tyenna River, the Huon River and the Derwent River, just to mention a few. Being down a bit lower in elevation, means that temperatures at these locations at the start of the season will generally be warmer. Trout are often more active in these areas, and therefore river fishing is a great way to start the season for many anglers.

While temperatures might be warmer, flooding and discoloured water can be a problem at this time of the season. If this is the case, my best tip for anyone would

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be to go ‘old school’ and use a set rod with bait. Traditional baits such as earth worms and wattle grubs have a natural scent that trout can easily find in such flooded conditions.

T h i s t a c t i c wo r k s especially well when water levels flood over grass banks and cause earth worms to come out into the water.

However, if your river or stream of choice is f lowing relatively cleanly, then a hardbody or soft plastic might be an even better option. When fishing waters like this with any type of lure, I always look for anything that may break the current flow. Trout love to lie in slack water, waiting for the opportunity for food to travel past. It is also a way for them to conserve energy because they do not having to continuously swim hard against the current. I look for obvious things like protruding rocks or boulders, or even logs. These features provide good current breaks.

In my experience, the deeper pools at the end of such breaks often hold larger fish. My recommendation is to fish them deep and slow, just as you would in a lake.

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Rivers are worthy of your attention.

You should also consider what might be breaking the current flow under the water. The trick here, given that you can’t see these obstacles, is to try to read the surface of the water for any clues. This takes a bit of experience to master. I find that underwater obstacles are much easier to see if you have a good pair of polarized sunglasses. ‘Tonic’ and ‘Spotters’ are two good Australian brands that I use. Although not cheap, they are a wise investment for the serious angler.

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Fishing News - Page 13

Tasmanian brand lures that work in rivers and streams: Soft plastics

Strike Tiger 3” minnow in black n gold, stealth tiger and mint jelly (in rivers).

Strike Tiger 2” t-tail in black n gold, stealth tiger and mint jelly (in rivers).

Strike Tiger 2” bug in black n gold, black caviar, copper berry (in rivers).

Strike Tiger 1” nymph in black n gold, black caviar, olive pepper, mint jelly, stealth tiger, copper berry (in small streams).

Hard body lures

Hawk 60 mm sniper minnow in killer wasp, gold/ black orange belly, rainbow trout and spotted fury (in rivers).

Hawk 35 mm chunk in black n gold, ayu and fire tiger (in small streams).

Cranka 59 mm minnow in golden trout, rusty gold, jolly tail and fire trout (in rivers).

Cranka 35 mm crank in flash prawn, smoked prawn and glass ayu (in small streams).

Conclusion

In this article I have mentioned the main Tasmanian brands that work with the tips that I have given. As many

of you know, there are many other interstate and overseas brands that also work very well on our trout in Tasmania. In my experience, finding something that represents the humble trout’s food source is always a good approach to take.

A lot of the hardbody lures I have mentioned can very closely represent native galaxias in lake environments. Soft plastic minnows and t-tails should also not be overlooked. They have the added benefit of scent, which hardbodies lack. However, regardless of the differences, both types of lures, when coupled with a slow ‘flat’ or slow ‘erratic’ retrieve, will attract the attention of any trout that is actively looking for such natural food sources. I recommend that you seek out some weed beds and go deeper with your offerings to find more fish.

If you are hitting the rivers and streams, find the areas that break the current flow. And remember, finding those deeper holes will improve your chances of catching something bigger! Although large lures do work on smaller fish, try to downsize your hardbodies and plastics to match the smaller size of the trout found in such environments.

As a final note, if the trout aren’t interested in your offerings, slow your retrieve right down. This is an easy tactic that some anglers often forget to use. You don’t have to constantly wind that reel to be successful! If you are using a soft plastic, don’t be afraid to just let it sit there for a while. You can achieve similar results by using a suspending hardbody lure. And as always, if nothing works on the day, mix it up and I am sure that you will soon find something that will give you some success.

Rug up and stay safe out there. See you on the water…

Mic Rybka - Strike Tiger Lures Tasmania

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Fishing News - Page 14

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TROUT SEASON 2018-19 John Diggle - Director of Inland Fisheries

T

he brown trout season starts on Saturday 4 August and the outlook is fantastic.

We expect most lakes and rivers to perform well right from the start. This follows on from a solid 2017-18 season.

For anglers chasing a trophy trout, try Lake Crescent early in the season. The water level has risen steadily through winter and further rain in spring should bring the marshes into play.

Another trophy trout chance is Blackmans Lagoon.

Over winter, we stocked Blackmans Lagoon with adult brown trout. These fish will grow quickly in this productive water.

Talbots Lagoon and South Riana Dam are also waters worth a look for a bigger than average trout.

Angling in Tasmania is not all about trophy trout. It is about the amazing fishing experience. It is impossible to list all the fisheries expected to perform well going into the 2018-19 season. Here is just a few we think will be worth a look: yingina/Great Lake, Woods Lake, Lake Echo, Bronte Lagoon, Little Pine Lagoon, Penstock Lagoon, Four Springs Lake and the Bradys Chain.

If its numbers of fish you are after look no further than lakes Pedder, King William and Burbury. These

are reliable but be prepared for some rough weather particularly early in the season. For a more sheltered option with good numbers of fish, try Huntsman Lake.

Rivers will provide great fishing in the coming season.

Just how good they are will depend on the rainfall for the rest of winter and spring. If the major rivers aren’t in flood, the sea run trout will be about in the estuaries and lower reaches from the start of August. This can provide exciting fishing right through to Christmas. Look to the River Derwent, Huon River, Pieman River, Mersey River, Inglis River and many more right around the State. Great river fishing is often available close to home.

We have been busy over the closed season transferring brown trout. Over 24 000 wild adult fish were relocated from spawning traps in the Central Highlands. Fisheries that have benefited include: The Bradys Chain with (almost) 10 000, Four Springs Lake with just over 4 000, Penstock Lagoon with a fish or two over 3 000, Lake Crescent with an even 2 000, Lake Leake with1 100 Craigbourne Dam gained 1 100, Tooms Lake, 1 000, Blackmans Lagoon got 600 Curries River Reservoir, 600, Pet Reservoir also 600, Nineteen Lagoons received 400, South Riana Dam, 400, and Lake Dulverton, 115.

In June, our Minister, Sarah Courtney, released the Tasmanian Inland Recreational Fishery Management Plan 201828 (the Plan). The Plan will ensure Tasmania’s trout fishery performs to its best. A strong trout fishery creates flow-on benefits to businesses and communities.

The Plan will guide the management of our worldclass trout fishery for the next decade. It will help grow and develop recreational trout fishing by;

providing better opportunities for anglers, assessing fishery performance, and managing fish stocks as a recreational resource for future generations.

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Fishing News - Page 15

Bag limits on rivers and streams go to 5 fish.

•

The Plan looks to increase participation locally and from tourism markets. It takes on the challenge to balance the needs for individual fishery management at key lakes and rivers and standardising fishing regulations.

The Plan is available from the Inland Fisheries Service website www.ifs.tas.gov.au.

Some of the regulation changes include; • A five fish daily bag limit for all rivers.

• A minimum fish size of 300 mm for most lake fisheries.

• A five fish daily bag limit for Big Lagoon (Bruny Island), Briseis Hole, Gunns Lake, Lake Dulverton, Lake Duncan, Lake Isandula, Lauriston Reservoir, Lake Lynch, Lake Mikany, Lake Skinner, Lamberts Dam, Little Lake, Pawleena Reservoir, Rossarden Dam, Rostrevor

Fishing News - Page 16

•

• • • •

Reservoir, Risdon Brook Reservoir, Shannon Lagoon and St Clair Lagoon.

A two fish daily bag limit, with a minimum size of 400 mm and only one fish to be taken over 500 mm for Penstock Lagoon, Lake Crescent, Camerons Lagoon and Bruisers Lagoon.

All angling methods are permitted in Huntsman Lake.

A daily bag limit of two brook trout in all inland waters.

A daily bag limit of five Atlantic salmon in all inland waters.

The boundary for the open all year section of the River Derwent extended upstream to the New Norfolk Bridge.

The boundary for the open-all-year section of the River Leven is extended upstream to Whisky Creek.

• A two fish daily bag limit with a minimum size of 300mm and no more than one fish over 500 mm for all Junior Angling Development fisheries: Bushy Park Estate Dam, Frombergs Dam, Hiscutt Park Pond, Lake Waverley and Taylors Dam. • Only people under 18 years old may fish at Junior Angling Development fisheries.

• A daily bag limit of 12 river blackfish for all inland waters independent of the salmonid daily bag limit.

There have also been other minor changes so please check your Tasmanian Inland Fishing Code 2018-19.

If you have copies of our Anglers Access Brochures please be aware that most have been updated to reflect the changes in the Plan. And don’t forget to update the InFish app with the start of the new season.

If you want to buy a licence, know more or simply want to pass on your experience then visit the website (www.ifs.tas.gov.au), ring on 1300INFISH or email infish@ifs.tas.gov.au, we do value your feedback.

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Fishing News - Page 17

Sandy Lake Hut

- Stephen Spurling III Photo: Weekly Courier, December 1904 (TAHO)

T H E H I S TO RY OF SANDY LAKE H U T – B U I LT 1903 From: Rebuilding of the S A N D Y L A K E H U T AT L A K E M A C K E N Z I E

by MOUNTAIN HUTS PRESERVATION SOCIETY INC.

T

he central highlands of Tasmania’s G r e a t We s t e r n T i e r s i s a n enchantingly beautiful area. The alpine landscape is as stunning as it is desolate, as inviting as it is menacing and a place where you are likely to experience all four seasons on any given day at any time of the year. The area is also known as the ‘land of a thousand lakes’. Within the land of a thousand lakes are the ‘Chudleigh Lakes’ – a collection of approx. 40 lakes of varying sizes which are found in the catchment area of Lake Mackenzie on the Great Western Tiers behind the Mole Creek-CavesideChudleigh districts.

The history of fishing in the area commenced over 120 years ago when trout were introduced into the lakes. Fry were first released into Lake Mackenzie in 1895 having been carried by hand to the plateau via the Mole Creek track.

Within a few short weeks a second release had occurred, this time the young

trout having been tenderly transported to Lake Mackenzie via Parsons track from Caveside. Stocking of the lakes continued over a ten year period and within a couple of years of the initial release large fish and good catches were being reported from across the Chudleigh Lakes.

The stocking of the Chudleigh Lakes had been the initiative of the Northern Tasmanian Fisheries Association and the success of the venture was reflected in the increasing number of anglers visiting the area. As the appeal and reputation of the Chudleigh Lakes grew, so did the need for accommodation. The Northern Tasmanian Tourist Association which was based in Launceston combined with the Fisheries Association to plan for the erection of a hut amongst the pines near a beach of golden sand on the shores of a small lake near Lake Mackenzie - Sandy Beach Lake.

A detailed report in the Examiner n e w s p a p e r o n We d n e s d ay 2 3 r d

Sandy Lake Hut - Photographer H J King (Photo courtesy Nic Haygarth) Fishing News - Page 18

December 1903 confirmed the Hut had been completed and passed into the hands of the Northern Tasmanian Fisheries and Tourist Associations for future management.

A money raising venture for the building scheme had commenced some months earlier - about mid-year in 1903 when a public appeal for subscriptions was launched in Launceston resulting in private citizens and business people donating just over £64 ($128) to finance construction of the proposed accommodation hut.

The task of planning and building was allotted to Mole Creek resident Mr. J. Lee who rallied a gang of some 20 to 30 men from the Mole Creek, Caveside, Chudleigh and Western Creek districts as his work crew. Decent sized trees from which to obtain suitable building material were not available on the plateau so Lee’s first task was to source timber from the front of the mountain and have it carried to the building site. The Parsons brothers from Caveside were instrumental in assisting Lee in the laborious and back breaking job of ferrying the timber, once split, on their shoulders to the plateau. Within a few short months the hut had been built.

Small and rectangular and made entirely from weatherboards with a shingle roof, the hut consisted of two rooms each with a paned glass window and a veranda facing the lake. A large fireplace with a stone chimney was built by the locally renowned skilled craftsman Sydney Higgs.

It is reported that the interior walls were lined with oil cloth and the wooden floor covered in linoleum. The hut was very

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well equipped with everything from furniture in the form of beds, tables and chairs to everyday kitchenware including cutlery and crockery. Much of the fittings and furniture had been purchased in Launceston. All a visitor needed to bring was food and a sleeping blanket.

Percy Smith and Charles Harrison from the Northern Tasmanian Fisheries Association had been the prime movers in initiating the idea of an accommodation facility, so it was fitting that they had the honour of officially opening the hut on the weekend of 19-20th December 1903. The Examiner reported that the two gentlemen travelled by train from Launceston to Chudleigh where they were driven to Caveside and from there travelled on foot via Parsons track to inspect the new hut. With the opening of Sandy Lake Hut, Caveside resident, Joseph Parsons, who had been acting as honorary water bailiff from the late 1880’s was also appointed official mountain guide – a voluntary service he had already been conducting for many years.

From the initial release of fry into Lake Mackenzie in 1895, there was now evidence of wide spread fish populations in many of the interconnecting creeks and neighbouring lakes. As a result, visitor numbers to the plateau were increasing at a noticeable rate thus creating a demand for more accommodation on the mountain and so in 1911 the Northern Tasmanian Fisheries and Tourist Associations once again combined to orchestrate the building of a hut, this time near Lady Lake close to where Higgs

First Release of Trout into Lake Mackenzie 1895 - Photographer: Stephen Spurling III - Weekly Courier (Photo courtesy John Pithouse)

Track summits the Great Western Tiers above Western Creek. This second hut was also a two-roomed structure (three rooms if the small fish house annexe is counted) with a central fire place but whereas Sandy Lake Hut was of timber construction, Lady Lake Hut was primarily built from sheets of galvanised iron including the tin roof. Sydney Higgs, creator of the stone chimney at Sandy Lake Hut a few years earlier, was the chief builder of Lady Lake Hut, enlisting the services of local handymen to assist with construction and the carrying of iron sheets from the valley below. He continued the role of caretaker responsible for repairs and maintenance for at least another decade after the hut’s completion.

With generously sized fish being caught in healthy numbers and with each fishing season outdoing the previous, anglers and hikers continued to flock to the mountain for recreation and relaxation. It was decided to build a third accommodation unit on the shores of Lake Nameless. Once again, the Northern Tas. Fisheries and Tourists Associations were the driving force behind the push to provide better amenities for tourists and public subscription was called for to fund the building project. And once again, Syd Higgs was the contractor entrusted with the task of building the hut. It was a mammoth undertaking for a man now aged in his late 60s. Nestled beneath Forty Lakes Peak, Ironstone Hut, completed during the summer of 1917-18, was built entirely of stone with an iron roof.

Syd Higgs’ signature trademark was the massive stone chimney which completed the hut.

With the completion of Ironstone Hut, three splendid huts were now available to recreational users on the plateau. The main source of access to the plateau was via Higgs Track from Western

Creek, Parsons Track from Caveside and the track from South Mole Creek.

Sydney Higgs cut the track which bears his family name - Higgs Track - in the early 1880’s as a stock route for access to a grazing lease held by his father Joshua Higgs in the Lake Lucy Long area. The track was subsequently improved and maintained when its tourism value was recognised.

The South Mole Creek track came into being shortly after the hut was built at Sandy Beach Lake. A pre-existing track from Mole Creek proved too steep and too long and with the increase in visitors it was necessary to cut a track with a better grade for quicker walking times and which was suitable for pack horses.

Parsons Track was cut by brothers Joseph and Herbert Parsons in the late 1800’s. Their parents, John and Susan Parsons raised 6 sons and 5 daughters on their Caveside property at the foot of the Great Western Tiers. Living in the shadow of the mountain it was only natural that the boys would develop a deep love of fishing, hunting and exploring. Joseph Parsons had been made an honorary Water Bailiff in 1888 and had commenced guiding tourists and fishing groups to the Chudleigh Lakes. When the Sandy Lake Hut was commissioned, he assisted greatly in carrying supplies – on his back – to the building site. Unlike Higgs Track and South Mole Creek Track which were suitable for horses, some very steep sections on Parsons Track (the aptly named Little Grunter and Big Grunter) made it impossible for horse power to be used.

Each of the afore-mentioned walking tracks was well marked with wooden stakes (also known as snow poles) and rock cairns. The wooden poles were obtained from the local trees, often

Sketch - Tourist Huts - Chudleigh Lakes (Ian Hayes)

the pencil pines, and so were not only extremely durable but vitally important for marking the route especially when snow blanketed the ground.

Fishing and recreational pursuits remained very popular within the Chudleigh Lakes area until the late 1920s, early 1930s. The eventual slump in popularity could probably be attributed to vehicle access by road becoming available to other fishing areas such as the Great Lake combined with the reported decline in the quality of fish, whether by over stocking or over fishing, in the Chudleigh Lakes. With a dwindling number of anglers and bushwalkers visiting the area, maintenance of the huts inevitably began to suffer. Sandy Lake Hut with its open fire place and scarcity of wood in the immediate vicinity became a target of vandalism and slowly over time its internal wooden fixtures such as table, chairs and beds were burned and eventually the floors and walls were pulled apart and likewise used for firewood.

The kitchenware – crockery, pots and pans – were used for target practice until eventually the entire hut which was once described by enthusiastic fishermen as being “like a hotel” was reduced to a shamble. At one stage sheets of tin were carried in on horseback via the South Mole Creek Track in an attempt to patch and repair the roof and walls. Eventually, what little was left of Sandy Lake Hut

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was destroyed by a fire – the jury remains out on whether it was deliberate or accidental. Sadly, less than sixty years after it was built, all that remained of Sandy Lake Hut was the solidly built stone and mortar chimney. But that too was eventually demolished prior to flooding of Lake Mackenzie by the Hydro Electric Commission when the Mersey Forth power scheme was developed in 1969. With the building of the dam at the western end of Lake Mackenzie the tiny Sandy Beach Lake was swallowed by the increased water volume and the beautiful golden sands were drowned along with the foundation stones where once stood Sandy Lake Hut. By the mid 1900’s all three huts which had been built as part of the tourism venture by the Fisheries and Tourists Associations were decayed or destroyed. During the past two decades, the Mountain Huts Preservation Society is proud to have been responsible for the rebuilding of the trio of huts – Sandy Lake, Lady Lake and Ironstone – and to once again make them available to bushwalkers and the fishing fraternity some 100 years after their initial existence on the plateau and in recognition of our pioneering forefathers, and as a tribute to those individuals and organisations who recognised the value, inherent beauty and cultural importance of the high country.

Fishing News - Page 19

Sandy Lake Hut - Rebuild complete (Photo Marg Howe)

THE REBUILDING OF SANDY LAKE HUT 201 5 - 1 8 Over a century ago, in the early 1900s, the forward thinking and progressive Northern Tasmanian Fisheries and Tourist Associations built three huts in the Chudleigh Lakes area to promote fishing and tourism in the area.

In the ensuing decades all three structures suffered irreparable damage due to the ravages of extreme weather conditions, wildfires and sadly, even vandalism.

The huts lay in ruins on the plateau of the Great Western Tiers for over half a century. The Mountain Huts Preservation Society had, by 2004, rebuilt two of the huts – Ironstone Hut and Lady Lake Hut - and it was both desirable and logical that the third hut – Sandy Lake Hut - should also be reconstructed to complete the trilogy.

The remains and foundations of the original Hut, which dated from 1903, are now submerged under the waters of the enlarged Lake Mackenzie following the Hydro Electric Commission’s development of the Mersey Forth power scheme in 1969. It was therefore necessary to establish a new site for the rebuilding of a replica hut. In May 2012, six MHPS members (Geoff Berry, Rodney Linger, Kelvin Howe, Paul Mansell, James Boxhall and Sandra Tiffin) inspected an area on the north eastern shore to identify a suitable site for a new hut. A second field trip occurred a few months later in December when Society members returned to the area accompanied by a PWS representative to view Fishing News - Page 20

the proposed site which was situated on a peninsular between Pine Marsh Bay and Sandy Lake Bay, approx.

250 metres from the high water mark, reasonably level, sheltered from the wind and with a very pleasant view.

In January 2013, with the water level in Lake Mackenzie extremely low, the original Hut’s foundations were exposed enabling a visit from Society members to measure and accurately record authentic dimensions.

Then followed a lengthy process of more than two years during which plans were drawn up and applications submitted to be processed by authorities such as Parks & Wildlife Service, Hydro Electric Commission, and Meander Valley Council. Meanwhile, Society members were kept occupied with researching the original hut, acquiring building materials and formulating plans and strategies for future working bees.

The first official working bee took place on 5th September 2015. The work crew consisted of 12 Society members and 1 PWS representative who assembled at the Lake Mackenzie car park and, along with considerable supplies and building tools, were ferried across the lake by boat. The 10 minute water taxi ride became a regular feature of future working bees and saved considerable time as opposed to walking around the perimeter of the lake. The weather for the initial working bee was fine but brisk and with parts of the lake frozen, the boat needed to break through ice before it could tie up and unload on the shore line. And, before any work could commence in earnest at the new hut site, snow needed to be shovelled from the area. Undaunted by the cold, levels were ascertained, measurements taken and marked and the rebuild of Sandy Lake Hut commenced.

(Note: This hut is also referred to as Sandy Beach Lake Hut and Lake Sandy Beach Tourist Hut. In formal applications with regulatory authorities and on the PWS Reserve Activity Assessment the title of Sandy Lake Hut has been used – therefore in this publication and from the Society’s view point this name has been adopted for all future reference.)

By the end of October 2015 the foundations for the hut and the chimney had been completed. The roof trusses which had been pre-assembled off-site, along with pre-cut timber for the framework, were delivered

by PWS helicopter. Working bees were well attended and held on a regular fortnightly basis resulting in the first wall frame being erected in November 2015. By early January 2016 the entire framework was finished and ready for the external timber cladding.

Work was progressing but then came the disastrous bush fires in mid-January 2016, which swept through sections of the Great Western Tiers affecting large areas in and around Lake Mackenzie and threatening the very safety of the hut. All Society members could do was hold their collective breaths. For those who lived in the shadow of the Tiers or who had seen at close quarters the flames which skirted the mountain top and the all enveloping thick smoke which lingered for days, it was an incredulous feeling when word filtered through that the hut had in fact been saved due to the direct action of a patrolling Tasmania Fire Service crew.

Members were keen to resume work, however those plans were thwarted by the unprecedented heavy rain which immediately followed the fires resulting in extreme flooding, erosion and landslides. The road to

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Lake Mackenzie suffered severe degradation in several places and as a result was closed to traffic until repairs and restoration could be completed.

On 19th March 2016, after a delay of 10 weeks, working bees resumed and continued regularly until late in October of that year before a recess was taken due to adverse weather conditions. Due to the setback to the timetable caused by the fires and floods it was decided to place corrugated iron as a temporary measure on the roof for protection against the fast approaching winter. External timber cladding of the Hut was also completed and the internal walls were lined with Baltic pine. A mixture of linseed oil and turpentine was used to coat and seal both external and internal walls. A latched, solid wooden door and window frames were also fitted before working bees ceased for 2016.

Following the Christmas/New Year break, members were keen to recommence work now that the hut was taking shape and they could see many, many months of hard work coming to fruition. Between January 2017 and February 2018, the two major tasks at hand were the completion of the large stone chimney and the replacement of the iron roof with just over 2000 shingles. A large rocky knoll found in close proximity to the hut site provided a suitable supply of stone and many members spent considerable time and energy in prizing large slabs from the quarry and carrying them to the hut.

A quantity of one-ton bags was also filled with stone and relocated to the hut during a subsequent helicopter lift of materials by PWS. The task of laying paving stones under the veranda at the entrance to the hut was also completed. A woodshed was built at the rear of the hut to store dry wood to accommodate the fire box which had been installed.

Almost 6 years since the idea of a hut rebuild was first mooted, and after 40 working bees, 3 helicopter lifts, more than 2400 volunteer hours involving 60 members, 4 junior members and 3 PWS personnel, on Saturday 7th April 2018, Sandy Lake Hut was officially opened.

Completion of the Sandy Lake Hut is the culmination of the Mountain Huts Preservation Society’s desire to reinstate, preserve and protect the culture of our forebears and ensure that fishermen and bushwalkers can continue to enjoy the high country for recreational pursuits in relative comfort and safety.

ABOVE: Shingles start to go on replacing the temporary roofing iron.

CENTRE: Joe Parsons cuts the opening ribbon (more appropriately binding twine) to reopen the Sandy Lake Hut 7 April 2018. MHPS President Roger Nutting looks on.

BELOW: A large crowd walked in to the enjoy and celebrate re-opening 7 April 2018.

More information can be found in the booklet: The History and Rebuilding of the SANDY LAKE HUT AT LAKE MACKENZIE by MOUNTAIN HUTS PRESERVATION SOCIETY INC.

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Fishing News - Page 21

MAGIC MARABOU Commercial fly tyer, Shane Broadby shares his knowledge

M

arabou feathers originally came from that ugly African scavenging Marabou stork, the bird with the massive beak that we see standing just out of reach of a pride of lions as they devour a zebra or wildebeest on a David Attenborough wild life doco. These days all the marabou feathers we see in the fly shops and fly tying catalogues are down feathers exclusively obtained from domestic turkeys and chooks.

Marabou is a great tying material used almost exclusively for wet flies and is prized for its mobility and surprising durability in water, when we think of marabou we automatically think of the tail of Woolly Bugger or Leech style flies. The original Wooly Bugger is believed to have been developed by Pennsylvania fly tier Russell Blessing around 1967 to imitate the Dobson Fly larva.

The original Wooly Bugger had a black marabou tail, dark olive green chenille body and a black palmer hackle. The Wooly Bugger style of fly has been tied in many, many colour, body and hackle variations around the world and our own Aussie Fly Tyers have developed some great variations, ranging from the Mk 2 Wooly Bugger developed by John Bessell and Ken Orr to more modern versions such as Muz Wilson’s unique Fuzzle Buggers and Joe Riley’s Shrek. These patterns all have marabou as the standard tailing material.

I first started tying with marabou in my fly fishing and tying apprenticeship years when we used to fish Lake Sorell regularly. I remember tagging along on a trip to Lake Sorell with a mate, Paul, where we ran into another companion of Paul’s, David Tadd. David was escorting his students from an adult education class on a practical field day. David showed us the fly he was using, a simple fly with a green tinsel braid body and a long black marabou wing tied on a heavy short shanked hook. I tied many variations of this fly afterwards and I came to have a lot of success with a gold tinsel chenille bodied fly with a olive marabou wing, this fly worked for me in many waters such as Lake Sorell, Woods Lake, Penstock and Bronte Lagoon, why wouldn’t it? Trout love a combination with green and gold!

Another variation that I used a lot in the Derwent when targeting sea run and the slob trout (resident browns) was a silver tinsel chenille bodied version, very simple and effective patterns. My uncle, Ken Broadby, always had good success at Lagoon of Islands and Lake Sorell with a Black and Peacock Marabou, basically a size 6 or 8 peacock herl bodied fly with a black marabou wing, again another simple pattern and a proven colour combination.

Fishing News - Page 22

Marabou is available quite a few styles Marabou comes in many different forms such as mini marabou, Wooly Bugger Marabou, Blood Quill Marabou and Select Marabou Plumes in just about every colour and barred variation you can think of. When it comes to the type of Marabou to use I’ll take the select plumes ever time, especially for Wooly Bugger, Leech or Fuzzle bugger style flies.

Select Marabou plumes are the pick of the Marabou feathers, select plumes should appear thick and full fibred with the individual herls being full fibred, long and very supple and the top quality select plumes have thinner stems. The other styles of marabou have their uses but for me I’ll take the select plume every time, they are easier to work with and look and behave better in the water where it counts. When tying marabou tails for bugger style flies it’s always advisable to tie the tails in long, if you need to shorten the tail just pinch and break the marabou to the required length, never cut with scissors, breaking it off results in a much more natural look. The best way to prepare a select plume for tying is to snip of the top few centimeters of the stalk, this is where the plume herls are thin and needle like, and you can use these for nymph tailing material. You will also have a section at the base of the feather, where the herls are shorter and a bit rough looking, strip them or cut the stem. if they are full looking good conditioned herls they can be used on smaller flies such as tadpole patterns or similar where length isn’t a consideration. Now you can either strip the quantity of herls you need from each side of the remaining part of the feather, or if you are tying the larger flies like a Fuzzle Bugger you can use the whole feather. I do this by cutting the prepared feather in half, placing one half on top of the other and then slide to match the tips together, you can lay the matched two halves on top of the hook for the hook length and bind down, this

results in a long tail but also a nice even bed to tie your body material on.

Marabou is a standard tailing material for most damsel nymph patterns but it can make great tailing material for more conventional mayfly nymphs, adding that little bit of extra trout enticing movement. Many anglers prefer to tie their Montana Nymphs with marabou tails, the thinner herls at the tip of select plumes or blood quills

Marabou Mary - with eyes

Green and Gold Marabou

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are the preferred herl for Montana tails. Marabou herls can be used as nymph bodies as well, the longer herls from the select plumes are the choice here, and some great extended bodies for Damsel nymphs can be formed with the herls.

David and Brian Cadle in their book, Tassie Trout Tip and Tactics, write about the Marabou Mary, a Bloody Mary variant, where small clumps of black marabou are tied cluster style around the red tinsel bodied hook instead of the sloping palmer hackle of the Bloody Mary, the Marabou Mary is a great fly for Bronte lagoon. Another great Tasmanian designed pattern, the Yum Yum emerger has a sparse tail of marabou that extends just below the surface film, I’m sure this adds a bit of movement and so appeal to this great emerger pattern.

Marabou is great material that all fly tyers should use, with a few basic colours in good quality select plumes an assortment of body materials and soft webby hackles you can tie an array of great flies that will hold their own anywhere where, where trout reside.

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Fishing News - Page 23

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Fishing News - Page 25

Dress for the cold.

5 FLIES TO GET THINGS STARTED James Sinnamon shares his thoughts

E

arly season almost all trout fishing is done using wet flies.

Weather is not yet warm enough for hot insect activity, the fish focus on sub surface food sources, such as frogs and galaxias’.

This is where the larger wet flies have their place, as they are imitations of such food sources.

Their will generally always be a handful of flies that will work in a given trout situation. The important factor that needs to be accounted for, is how and when to present the chosen fly. When imitating frogs and bait fish, it comes down to two standard retrieves; slow and steady and fast and aggressive. Slow and steady, works well in a sight fishing scene or when imitating a frog movement. Fast and aggressive works well with baitfish style Fishing News - Page 26

Murray with a nice early season brown — taken on a Wooly Bugger.

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Fishing News - Page 27

flies when there is water to be covered and or imitating a fleeing galaxia or baitfish. The same goes for all flies mentioned below.

I like long fluorocarbon tippets between 10-15ft of 5-6lb breaking strain. Floating weight forward lines are ideal for the early season anglers stalking fish. The weight forward line will help turn over long leaders and large flies in the, often, bad early season weather.

Mrs Simpson

Originating in New Zealand in the early 20th century.

The style of fly is known as a ‘killer’ pattern, designed

by Joe Cornwell. ‘Killer’ is the tying style, known as a fly with many variations, similar to a deceiver, where it is a creation of creative interpretation. The body is traditionally tied using a bright coloured chenille or wool yarn, with Pheasant feathers appearing to be the irreplaceable feather of choice to tie this fly.

This f ly works most effective on the bottom, along weed-lines, logs and flood waters. It is best to tie this fly to the tippet using a loop knot, as this maximises the fly’s action. When presenting the fly it should be worked slowly with small movements, as a frog would appear naturally in the water. It is told ‘any angler hunting trout anywhere in the world should have a Mrs Simpson variant in their box’!

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Fur Fly

Great fly for tailing fish, a personal favourite. This fly is tied from animal fur instead of feathers. This fly is commonly tied with an orange, red or yellow chenille or wool yarn, in an array of colours, from black to light tan colours. Because this fly is fished so slowly it makes for a great fly for sight fishing in shallow water, typically close to the bank. It does not normally have a bead head.

Woolly Bugger

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A shorter, fatter, unweighted version of the Woolly Bugger without marabou. It is generally tied with little, or no sparkle, with a large soft hackle around the body, and a short tail. The soft hackle creates a large movement of water, in relation to little movement of the fly.

A perfect fly for those scenarios with deeper edges, where slow sinking presentations are the key. It is also an exceptionally good fly to use when sight fishing tailing fish in thick weeded marshy edges, prone to snagging unguarded hooks. For the reason it creates good commotion with very little movement.

From worm to bait fish and everything in between, this fly would be one of the most widely used wet fly imitations in the trout world. This fly is usually tied with a bead head, marabou tail and a wire or chenille body wrap. Sometimes the bead is dropped for shallow water.

The Woolly Bugger can be presented in a variety of ways depending on what you’re a trying to imitate. What makes this a great one to have in the box is its ability to be retrieved quickly, with the bead head creating extra movements as the bead drops the fly back towards the bottom between each strip. This allows for more blind casts, helping to cover more water in order to find fish.

Stick Caddis

Sometimes you may need a subtle nymph choice to get the take when you’re confronted with a spooky fish.

That is why it is always good to have a few small stick caddises in the box. It can be fished on its own or under a dry. It rarely spooks a fish and can be very successful.

James Sinnamon

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EARLY SEASON TROUT ON MINNOWS Matt Sherriff tells us his techniques

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Sniper - Killer Wasp

ell, it’s that time of year again when the humble trout becomes front of mind and we all rug up to brave the cold and chase one of Tassie’s most sought-after fish.

With the amount of freshwater rivers and lakes available in our beautiful state and the great access available for both land based and boat anglers, it’s no wonder that trout fishing is so popular.

Many of our waters have been well stocked over winter by the Inland Fisheries Service which means that most us have a better than average chance of catching a couple of fish!

Many anglers target fish deep early in the season, finding them sluggish in cool water temperatures and whilst this may ring true in many of the highland lakes, fishing in lowland lakes will often mean fish will be more actively feeding around the shallow edges or on top.

During August and September, we concentrate most of our efforts at Four Springs and will generally focus our fishing over the shallow weed beds using minnows that run around two to three feet deep (less than one metre). As it’s a lure we wholesale, we predominately use the Hawk Sniper 60mm Minnows. These lures suit a wide variety of anglers from the beginner to the experienced as they have a great action on a standard retrieve (constant wind) but also twitch very well for those that like to impart extra action on their lures.

There are a wide variety of lures on the market with some great fish catching colours, but my biggest piece of advice is that you need to be all over how that lure works in the water. I’ve had anglers ask me why they haven’t had success on more expensive lures with fantastic paint finishes and nine times out of ten it comes down to the action. Some of these lures work extremely well when twitched or ripped through the water but do not impart very much action at all on a standard retrieve.

The result of this is that anyone who is not constantly

working their lure will most likely be heading home with less fish than those that do! The key take out here is to swim any new style of lure you use, taking note of how it moves through the water and how to work your retrieve to give it the best action.

Lure tuneup

Ok; we’ve worked out the action of the lure and how we are going to work it, but what if your lure is swimming off to one side? This problem can happen straight out of the box in some cases but is more likely to happen after you’ve caught a fish or pulled your lure from a snag. In fact, most lures/hooks are actually damaged in the net when there is one treble hooked in the fish and the other caught in the mesh whilst the fish is rolling around. Many anglers will see a lure swimming off to one side and immediately relegate it to their junk lure box. Well, here’s some good news; these lures can be easily tuned back to their fish catching best!

To tune a lure, you can use some small pliers to slightly move the nose wire (where your line connects) in the opposite direction to the way the lure is swimming i.e. if the lure is swimming off to the right, bend the nose wire slightly to the left. The key message here is “SLIGHTLY” as a little adjustment goes a long way.

Remember to constantly check how your lure is swimming throughout the day as it can make a huge difference to your end results.

Tune your lures for better action

Colours?

What colour to use?? Whilst I will always pick a lure on it’s action first, colour is another important consideration. Walking into a tackle store and looking at their lure wall is like looking into a kaleidoscope. There are so many variables with lure colour; is the day bright or cloudy, is the water clear or dirty, what sort of bait are the fish feeding on? Years ago, I was told to run darker colours on bright days and flashier colours on

Sniper - Black Widow

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Fishing News - Page 31

Attomic PRINT.pdf 1 31/08/2017 3:03:53 PM

So; we’ve worked out what lure to tie on, picked out a colour and checked the action and if it swims straight.

What’s the best retrieve to use? For me, I like to use the longest cast possible so will always try to be a full cast length from any shores or structure I’m fishing when in the boat to avoid spooking the fish. When the lure

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dull days…for me that could not be farther from the truth. Flashy metallic colours work fantastic on sunny days, sending out flashes of light to nearby fish much like a lighthouse to ships! Have you ever seen baitfish swim past on a bright day…what’s the first thing that catches your eye…the flash!!

On cloudy days, or at dawn/dusk, darker colours seem to work better as the silhouette of the lure stands out better in the water. Darker colours also work well in dirty water, although in this instance, using a lure with a rattle in it can further increase your catch rate by helping the fish to hone in on it.

If I could only take five of my lures out with me, the colours would be: Killer Wasp, Spotted Fury, Spotted Assassin, Rainbow Trout and Black Widow. One last thing with colours is to mix it up a bit; when fishing with mates we’ll quite often start with each of us using different colours and then swap if one person is catching most of the fish. Likewise, if you’re on your own and things are quiet, change to a different colour, it may make all the difference.

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Fishing News - Page 33

first hits the water, I will always draw my rod to pull the lure under and pause for a few seconds. Often a fish will hear the noise of the lure hitting the water and come to investigate so don’t be in a hurry to get it moving. If the lure has not been hit within a few seconds I will begin my retrieve.

The most successful retrieve I have come across with the Snipers has been a slow wind for a couple of metres and then two or three reasonably quick draws of the rod (whilst still winding). Watching back video footage of strikes, I was amazed to see the amount of hits after my last draw. Note: when you are returning your rod after drawing, the lure will pause momentarily even though you are still slowly retrieving, this seems to be a trigger point for the fish to strike. On days where you’re finding that fish are following the lure to the boat and then shying away, start mixing it up. Speed up your retrieve, throw in some quick rips followed by a pause…there are no hard and fast rules and experimenting but also realising what you did to get the fish to bite is key! Remember every lure has a different action and you need to work them appropriately.

When throwing minnows for trout your success will improve with the right gear as the lures are generally very light and without the correct set-up you will have difficulty not only casting over distance but also feeling your lure work. A seven to seven-foot six rod is ideal for fishing from a boat or shore in lakes, whilst river fisherman often prefer rods in the six to six-foot six range. Two to four kilo weight rods are fine however the one to three kilo rods take this type of fishing to another level. Complete your set-up with a balanced reel and some four to six pound braid and you’re well on the way.

A couple of metres of four to six pound fluorocarbon leader connecting your braid

to your lure will complete the picture. My favourite set-up currently is a Murasame Tournament Spin 702ULS coupled with a Pioneer Cyclone Prestige 2000 reel and 4lb Timberwolf 360 Braid. I do run a couple of rods with straight through fluorocarbon but as trout have hard mouths I find that the zero stretch characteristics of braid, coupled with the extra lure feedback it gives, leads to better overall results. My favourite minnows for trout are the Hawk Sniper and Megabass Great Hunting GH70 and X-70.

Early season we tend to target the lakes rather than the rivers and opening day for us is a now traditional trip to Four Springs. IFS stock this water well with both rainbow and wild brown trout during the closed season and the plentiful feed in this water ensures the trout are well fed and in great condition. Four springs is a generally shallow lake with much of the water less than two and a half metres deep, but it also has a few deeper sections to five metres. You will find plenty of weed in the lake which through the warmer months really favours the fly fisherman. However early and late in the season it is a great place to fish with shallow running minnows!

One last piece of advice…get yourself a good pair of polarised sunnies! These are not only important to look after your eyes in the sun but are invaluable to help spotting fish and enabling you to see your lure working in the water. There are some great glasses available at your local tackle store, but don’t just pick the ones that look good on your head…ask the store to let you go outside and compare them in the sun; after all the fish don’t care how you look! We have recently started to wear Tonic glasses and are amazed with the quality of their lenses and what they allow us to see; they even do prescription glasses for people like me!

Matt Sherriff

Sniper - Kawamutu

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Fishing News - Page 35

OPENING DAY ACTION Laurence Farr describes his 2017 season start and offers a few tips for early season.

First light is magic - and cold and with great reflections

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or those of you who remember last seasons (2017) opening day, the weather prediction appeared bleak for the big day! However, that didn’t stop an army of enthusiastic anglers dusting off their waders and warmest clothes to hit the water on the first day...

At 5:45am on DAY ONE I stood on the edge of a flooded, frozen lake… it was a windless on the central plateau, nearly a foot of snow blanketing the ground, a thin layer of ice; a jagged mosaic, extending out from the bank into the fog.

Had we come too early?

Were we too eager to be the first line in the water?

Would we suffer a whole day of cold hands, numb cheeks and aching toes, only to be held away from our spotted golden prize by a layer of relentless ice?

I embraced the warm outside of my pocket thermos stowed inside my jacket as daylight arrived, illuminating the thick air and with it came optimism. It was as if the sun had seen enough of our suffering and arrived just in time to save these mad souls.

As the fog lifted, the open water of the lake became visible — our first chance.

A dark fur fly, surely the most humble of flies, seemed fitting, and was my choice for the season. Its maiden voyage however presented a challenge, frozen guides, frozen and stiffened line and tippet as well as rock solid fly that offered no movement in the vital first portion of a retrieve if kept out of the water for more than a few seconds! A manual de-icing of each guide was necessary by blowing on them with precious warm air. I had to make each cast count, I told myself.

A glance along the bank revealed a second defrosted patch around 50 metres away. A much smaller patch than the first. High water levels had inundated a previously exposed grassy depression, forming a secluded defrosted bay, well outside the normal margins of the lake and no more than 10 square metres in diameter.

Fishing News - Page 36

An unmistakable and heartening ripple emanated from this little bay and what followed was one of the most unforgettable observations of wild trout behavior I have experienced in my short time fishing.

My heart rate rose as I carefully prepared my outfit, whilst watching carefully the bay ahead. As I stood almost lifeless a commotion of water and fins erupted. It seemed multiple fish were working together on a school of galaxiids in less than a foot of water. It was all I could do not to stumble head over heals as i raced across the snow into position, crouched in front of a bush roughly 4 metres adjacent to the tiny bay. Knees shaking, hands

fumbling I extracted an unweighted black and olive green minnow, switched flies, swiftly wet the fly across my lips and watched the astonishing scene unfold.

The trout appeared to be completely tolerant of each others presence, two were visibly parked at the only exit, while three were more or less lurking concealed in the grass tussocks throughout the bay. Moments of calm were followed by upheaval, as one fish came across prey scattering the bait school across the surface as they attempted to escape, only to be met by the open jaws of the other aggressive trout.

Snow, ice and tough conditions

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Fishing News - Page 37

At this point, there was not much to be done on my part, a single back cast and a I sent the fly to the opposite edge of the bay, two strips and a pause was followed by a bow wave by the closest fish and it was on! Needless to say the remaining fish quickly exited the scene and I realized my only chances of landing this fish were keeping it inside the bay, as escape to the main lake with its companions under the ice would be disaster.

Thankfully, I kept the fish jumping close to where it was hooked by applying pressure from opposing angles, and keeping tension on, I was able to run to the fish and slid my net under its belly. A healthy, spotted golden buck was a good way to start the season!

The day proceeded as many highland days do, a breath of wind lifted the fog before midday and parted clouds providing moments of sunshine, followed by sleeting rain then snow, wind, then back to sunshine. A prevailing South easterly wind set in after midday breaking any remaining ice and providing the lake conditions with rather predictable trout holding areas.

Stalking the leeward (down wind) shore I speculated an accumulation of food would likely occur along this bank and to cut a short story shorter, it wasn’t long before my prediction payed. A dark silhouette of a fine brown cruising along the bank in the same direction I was walking, quickly, back on when the fur fly and the pleasurable pursuit followed; the trout appeared in no mind to turn back on his path and would have undoubtedly made his way along the entire bank of the lake, if, he had not seen a tasty feed of fur and hook twitching on the bottom. I had held my presentation until he moved behind a snow covered grassy ‘bulkhead’ that allowed the concealment of both my fly line and waving rod, from the fish only a few metres away.

I presented my fly a metre or so in front of where I thought he was, retrieved the slack in the line then let the fly sink, a 4-5 second pause then a tiny twitch was all it took. This fish was the biggest of the day at 3 and a half to 4 pounds. It didn’t, like being hooked and took off for the middle of the lake. My confidence lay in the strength of my leader and the solid hookup I’d made, at this point I remembered the importance of enjoying the whole experience, letting a fish fight in this colder water is less likely to stress them, so rushing the retrieval in this case was unnecessary. I took my time and with a smile on my face, slid the net under another remarkable fish.

The day continued as any trout angler would have hoped. With a total of 5 memorable fish by 4pm I had had my fix! It was time for a hot meal and a bubbling brew to reflect on what makes the early season so good!

Thoughts on early season

The opening season is an exciting time for all anglers as the prospects of new opportunities in the coming months inspire the imagination of catches exceeding previous season highs.

But the ambition to fish the highland lakes in opening month, defines the intrepid few from those content to postpone their first venture for more comfortable conditions. While the lowland lakes will certainly provide reliable catches in the first portion of the season, the highland lakes will offer unrivaled experiences, where the opportunity of being the first to fish an area for the season puts one in high stead of landing the more memorable fish.

Fishing News - Page 38

Just over the bush It is the the firm opinion of both myself and my fishing mates that the early season is one of the most productive times of year, the reasons for which, are as follows; Apart from it being the single longest time without angling pressure, it’s as if the thought of reproduction then the following challenges of surviving winter resets the fear of being caught to practically zero! Aggressive feeding by fish desperate to regain weight after winter is often the case. Fish will feed with less hesitation and far less scrutiny of poor presentation and perfect imitation.

This allows for thicker, stronger leaders, (6lb or more is certainly not too heavy). Chiefly, this time of year usually presents the highest water levels in all systems after the heavier winter rains. Any well seasoned trout angler will know this means fish in the shallows, often easily spotted working the margin of lakes and rivers feeding on newly submerged food sources.

What fly should I tie on first?

Unless you see reliable evidence otherwise- wet flies are the go, darker flies in black and gold or green and black should do wonders as these colors contrast well with the typical darker water at time of year.

Wet Flies

Fur flies are an effective ‘go to’ fly for any shallow water over grass or weed at this time of year, a pattern general enough to imitate a variety of subsurface critters.

Known commonly as the ‘Sloane style’ or ‘frog’ fly, usually tied from rabbit fur on a size 8-10 hook. These flies should be fish slow… or not retrieved at all. I recall an interaction with a ‘well seasoned’ fly fishermen while standing next to a small but well known lagoon in the central highlands; After a lengthy conversation about the challenges of fishing such a commonly hit location,

he opened his fly box and gave me one of his own tied Sloane flies ‘one of many’ he said, ‘not hard to come by, but one of the only flies I’d fish here’. He explained the most effective way to present these was sinking them to the bottom in front of fish, then leaving them there ‘only twitch a fly to get the fish’s attention once he’s seen it, don’t touch it’.

Cat fur flies really deserve a whole category of their own, the well known and loved ‘Shrek’ fly is a deadly green and black pattern, and there are many variants on the well known ‘Yeti’ fur flies — weighted or unweighted for water depth. Imitating a bait fish means a conscious retrieval is needed, small short strips, big long strips, pauses or even a consistent retrieve are all viable, depending on the waterway and the fish feeding behavior on the day! As always, experiment, but have faith! These flies are responsible for more than their fair share of fish in the early season!

The old faithful, bead headed Wooly Bugger will be the first fly to hit the water for many an angler this opening and for good reason! These flies are ideal for deeper waters, anywhere much over 1.5 metres depth and a bead head is going to hit the hot spot during august.

Scuds, nymphs and the age old Mallard and Claret will have there place in the August arsenal, for when fish begin to appear more hesitant, after they’ve seen a fly or two these patterns are sure to induce a take!

Fishing around ice

During August many highland waterways will have partial ice coverage. It is uncommon however, for lakes (especially those of reasonable size and volume) to be remain frozen all day, many lakes present only partly frozen with a thin lay of ice and snow in the morning but thaw rapidly once the sun provides its heat. Reading

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Let them go and let them grow the pattern of ice on a lake can tell us a lot about the water conditions of the lake.

When a layer of ice forms on a lake we know that this surface water is 0°C, however due the phenomenon known as ‘stratification’ the water below is certainly warmer, up to 4°C in fact. Once we see ice melting we know the below ice temperature is even greater and could be as high as 7°C, a temperature well within our wild trout’s ‘comfort zone’. A rising thermometer (or barometer) at any degree (over 4°C) is enough to trigger a feeding response, and from experience this is exactly what August brings!

A consistent wind in one direction will create an extended ice coverage out from the upwind shore while a buildup of broken ice, or no ice at all on the downwind side. This down wind edge will likely be the warmest as water circulates across the surface towards this edge, creating an accumulation of more temperate surface waters, while the opposite side will experience ‘upwelling’ from colder bottom waters. This downwind bank will almost always hold the greatest food accumulation at this time of year, as dead or dying aquatic life will be washed in this direction. Trout know this and cunning, more dominant individuals will cruise this bank in search of an easy meal.

The warmest clothes

While writing this (July) we are receiving calm sunny days followed by wild wind and rain in the north, there’s really no predicting the weather on opening day but in preparing for early season one should certainly expect the full scope of our beloved states whether!

Having completely water proof clothing head to toe is a must and maintaining dry undergarments all day is essential. High quality warm clothing, such as merino thermal socks, gloves, and undergarments, woolen midlayers and Gortex raincoats over waders are a must have for enjoying this time of year. There’s no denying these conditions are tough, but there’s not much a pocket sized flask of hot beverage can’t make better!

Lessons:

Don’t be hesitant to be the first angler on the water on opening day.

Don’t be reluctant to fish partially frozen lakes, as areas of defrosted surface often hold the feeding fish in higher concentrations.

If you see a fish under the ice, unless there’s a defrosted patch nearby, just take a photo, or enjoy the moment because there’s honestly no way to catch these fish.

Look for flooded inlets and bays as fish love feeding over newly submerged ground.

When imitating subsurface food sources target the downwind shore.

Prepare for the worst conditions- hope for the best.

Don’t forget to renew your license.

Never forget a flask of hot beverage.

If you’re after some hot early season action (minus the hot weather) then; get into your tackle store, get geared up and get in early on the opening!

Laurence Farr

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Fishing News - Page 39

GAME SEASON WRAP-UP Kelly ‘Hooch’ Hunt wraps-up the game season that seemingly won’t end.

West Coast bluefin are coming on and here is Dean O’Connor with a beauty.

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ell here we all are and I have pieced together an overview of the last game season. It is tricky to do so however because game fishing season 2017/18 just keeps giving. Why just now India Thompson reported of losing a fish off the back of St Helens Island that creamed line off the reel and mid July I was fishing off St Helens myself and there were fish from just outside Burns Bay to the shelf.

It has been a fantastic year for game fishing all around Tasmania and I say all around as the West Coast is starting to make a name for itself as well. Jamie Harris has found tuna down off Strahan a number of times while out chasing Striped Trumpeter. One trip this year he found them in so close the water was still a tannin brown colour from the outflow of Macquarie harbor.

St Helens has made a great fightback in the game fishing department after having a few lean years. The game fishing clan has been making a bee line for Eaglehawk Neck as the destination of choice but that is changing again. St Helens fishes well early and is your best chance for a marlin or the hallowed Yellowfin tuna.

These two fish were elusive this year. We had a great couple of marlin bites a couple seasons back but the currents didn’t flow for us this year.

The good news is what we did have and that was a heap of gamefishing action on Mako sharks, Albacore, Bluefin and Broadbill Swordfish. So lets have a look at some of that action.

Mason Paull and his son Daniel have had a stella year on the Swords this season. The lads caught 6 swords off St Helens which was better than their last season by 2 fish. They have their technique working a treat and are leaders in releasing these fish to fight another day.

They are strong believers in using big circle hooks for this type of fishing. They obviously have some good spots to start their drops, but quite frankly it’s all about the available food at the right depth. These Swordfish are big protein munching machines and live down in the cold waters needing lots of food. Find the food and get a bait down and you are in with a chance. The sword fishing bycatch is also pretty cool with all sorts Fishing News - Page 40

of fish being taken on the big baits meant for the big Broadbill Swords.

Still in the waters off St Helens and we saw Melissa Mcgiveron and her husband Jason trolling for big tuna and they found one. 123kg is a sensational fish and on 37kg line a pending state, Australian and world ladies record. These two are Tasmania’s premier fishing couple spending many hours on the water and finding fish often.

Their massive fishing weapon “ICE AGE” is set up to hunt and find all manner of game fish and a credit to them both.

A fisherman that has a great season is Jonah Yick.

He managed to take out friends and family and for the most part caught some fabulous fish. It didn’t seem to matter if it was early in the season or where he went his skill and persistence paid off. He found early season Albacore and mako sharks. He even found some good fish as close as Storm Bay in the states south. Jonah is a prime example of what I say all the time. Watch the weather, organize yourself and spend time on the water and you will be rewarded.

The Albacore run this season was early and strong in number and in the size of the fish encountered. When looking for Albacore in the early part of the season try a feather lure like the Zuker and back the speed off a little. Get the speeds down to around 5 – 6 knots and throw some halco deep divers in as well. These bibbed lures work well and dive deeper when trolling slower and on a longer set from the back of the boat. The Zukers run well at a lower speed and you can place some small skirts in with them around the wash of the propeller The other skipper that comes to mind when it comes to time on the water and dedication is Josh Hammersley.

Josh and his two daughters Chloe and Molly rack up some serious water time and find fish often. Chloe has some serious line class captures to her name and young Molly has the bug now as well. It is fabulous in this day

Daniel Paull with one of the five swordfish they have tagged this season.

Mellissa Mcgiveron with a cranking 123kg fish that has multiple records pending on 37kg line class.

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Fishing News - Page 41

and age of screens and electronic distraction to be able to do an activity with family. There are so many skills that kids can pick up from fishing that carry on through all aspects of life. It starts the planning and with something as simple as weather prediction, the points of a compass and what effect wind can have on swell. The logistics and important aspects of towing and boat handling. Then of course there is the knots and reasoning behind what we do and why we do it. Food harvesting is a fabulous life skill to have in a world where sadly the vast majority of kids think that food just comes from the supermarket like magic.

I mentioned the currents and the way they effect the fishing here in Tasmania. They are very important and carry the food and supply the water quality that has the exciting fish we don’t see a lot of. The currents are all dependent on weather events we have no control much further north. When we do have the currents play the game we can have some great fishing off the east coast of Tasmania for Striped marlin and big yellowfin tuna.

We didn’t get that bite this season but we did have some fish caught that give you hope that it may happen next year or the year after. So we never give up, we gear up and we learn so when they do arrive we are in with a good chance. Having said that we did see some currents that brought with it some good numbers of yellowtail kingfish. These fish are great fighters for their size and a big one will really take you to task. There were many crews that reported heaps of these much sought after fish along the coastal points, but also out on the shelf.

This water can often bring delights such as Dolphin fish also known as Dorado, but not this year.

Tyson Digney found some very good water off Bicheno during February and managed 3 small yellowfin.

They got these fish in a three way hook up and managed to land all three fish. Tyson is a mad keen young angler and has the uncanny ability to out fish his dad Paul. This infuriates Paul no end, but he has just had to deal with it.

Mako sharks have been fishing very well for a few years now and this season was no different. There has been a real push for the majority of anglers to let the big ones go and just harvest the smaller sharks for the table. There are still some big ones taken each year and this is often down to how often a crew gets out each year. The mako shark is being found more places each year and a lot closer inshore than people used to fish.

Nowadays it seems that if you have enough burly you will find one just about anywhere. There were a number found in 30m in Bass Strait this season and a few off Schouten Passage not far out off the passage. The continental shelf is still your best bet if you are looking to maximize your chances.

If you are out trolling lures and the weather calms off super flat it does pay to be set up to hit the deep ocean floor. Many crews had great success when it glassed out looking for the tasty morsals that inhabit the drop offs around the shelf. The Rays bream and Blue eye trevalla are always a welcome sight to come over the gunwale during a game fishing season. The freezer looks good with a few shelves of self-caught deep sea delights and this season fished very well from around Tasmania.

So as you can see by the pictures there has been some fabulous catches this season and we have not even scratched the surface. The fishing is world class off Tasmania and we are very spoilt. I say spoilt as the fishing is so close to us. We have just recently seen a run of Fishing News - Page 42

fish off Sydney and the whole recreational fleet gets excited, but it is not for everyone. Their access to the shelf and the awesome fishing is a long 80km round trip without any fishing included. In contrast we can just travel 5km and be into the tuna and if we want to hit the shelf 20km and we are in some great fishing grounds for all game fishing species. So get involved and don’t think it is all too hard as there are many people willing to share information and make sure you have some success.

Don’t wait till next year either. If you can find a weather window and get a crew together there are some great fish off St Helens right now.

Paul Hicks and his son Lachie had a rod go off and after a solid fight caught a 34kg Butterfly Mackerel on 15kg line. These fish are not very common and it was great to see a fish of this quality in our waters. This was an excellent angling effort and is a pending record for young Lachie. The catch was even greater as they had the ham fisted Paul Digney on board acting as crew. All jokes aside Paul is great to have on board and a great angler in his own right. He just has to conquer his fear of mako sharks.

Family fishing at its best.

A local Storm Bay Mako Shark, around the 40kg mark. Great eating at this size, and awesome to be able to catch these gamefish so close to Hobart. The photo was taken just off Margate where we launched from, while we caught the mako only a few hundred metres off Bruny Island. We lost another mako on this day, we bottom fished while berleying and used the frames as berley. Caught on a fresh squid which was caught while we were drifting. Amazing that you can catch them only a few kms from the boat ramp.

Father and son dynamic duo Paul and Lachie Hicks recently caught this butterfly Mackerel off St Helens.

Jonah Yick and Sam Nichols with a haul of Rays Bream, caught in 480m over the shelf fishing out of Eaglehawk Neck. The bream were thick on this day and resulted in 4 or 5 fish on almost every drop. Rays bream were quite prolific this season, ended up catching a lot on the sword baits as well. A lot were hard up on the bottom as well as in 300 to 400m.

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Chris Boon with an early season 35kg bluefin caught over the shelf at Eaglehawk Neck.

Fish was tagged and released, and caught on an Eaglehawk Lures emerald green prowler.

Caught another three on this day all around the same size. Majority of bluefin caught early season were much smaller than this, around 10kg mark.

Sian Tan and Helen O’Neill with a couple of small bluefin (10kgish) tagged, and ready to be released. These fish were caught off the lanterns, hard in under the cliffs, and were in big numbers on this day, with many multiple hook ups. For the first part of the season, most of the bluefin were this size. Caught on both hard bodies and skirts.

Patiently watching the big Penn 80w with the Penn inter rod for any sign of a bite. Fishing out of Eaglehawk Neck in 510m of water.

Fishing for swordfish.

A big lifter grenadier well in excess of a metre, fishing over the shelf out of Eaglehawk Neck.

Grenadier were prolific this season as per usual, where pulling up 5 at a time was not uncommon.

Some monster albacore in the 19 to 24kg range. Landed 6 on this day just nor east of the big hippolyte rock. Me and Sam Nichols.

Put up a great fight even on the heavy 24 and 37kg game gear. This was in early April, although we were chasing jumbo bluefin we didn’t complain with this bycatch.

Tom Srodzinski with a nice early season mako shark estimated around 60kg. Caught over the continental shelf out of Eaglehawk Neck.

Caught by berleying up the frames of the bottom fish caught. Beautiful eating at this size and easy to deal with out of a small trailer boat. Short fight time and didn’t jump, but slugged away down deep for quite a while.

Greg Guard found some Tassie yellowtail kingfish.

Hooked up tight to a big sword late in the afternoon. Fishing out of Eaglehawk Neck in 520m of water. Hooked up at 4pm, but the fish was somehow able to get us reefed up to the canyon, and we had to bust it off. Unlucky.

Last drop of the day .

Hooked up on a sword over the continental shelf off Eaglehawk Neck. Fishing in 460m of water, the swordfish played with the bait for a good 10mins before taking it properly. Fought for 1.5hrs before the hook pulled. Squid bait with twin Js.

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Fishing News - Page 43

RECREATIONAL SEA FISHERIES NEWS August 2018 Calamari and Squid Spawning Closures North Coast closure The southern calamari and squid fisheries will be closed to recreational and commercial fishing on Tasmania’s north coast from 1 - 31 October 2018 inclusive.

The North Coast closure area includes all waters: Bounded in the west by an imaginary line starting at Cape Grim and then running due west along the line of latitude at 40° 40’S to the limit of State waters; and Bounded in the north by the limit of State waters; and Bounded in the east by an imaginary line starting at Cape Naturaliste and then running due east along the line of latitude at 40° 50’S to the limit of State waters.

East Coast closure Dates for the annual calamari closure in upper south east coast waters including Great Oyster Bay and Mercury Passage are unchanged, from 15 October to 14 November inclusive.

The East Coast closure area includes all waters south from Lemon Rock (south of Wineglass Bay) to the northern end of Marion Beach (south of Maria Island) and includes Coles Bay, Great Oyster Bay and Mercury Passage.

What is prohibited during the closure?

During the closure period, taking or possessing calamari and other squid species is not allowed in the closed area on state waters.

Any squid and calamari you have caught prior to the closure periods and stored in your freezer is not affected.

Why are the closures needed?

A significant increase in southern calamari catch levels in the north of the state by both sectors has seen this management measure being implemented despite the fishery being assessed as sustainable. The closure is a precautionary measure to restrain catch at a key period for this increasingly popular species.

The spawning closure ensures that calamari aren’t targeted when they are at their most vulnerable and some protection is provided during peak spawning activity to help maintain stocks into the future.

Data from the north coast calamari research project conducted by the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies indicates that the north coast area contains potentially significant breeding sites where calamari congregate in large numbers. This research continues and new information will inform potential future spawning closures.

Which squid species are included in the closure?

For compliance reasons, all squid species and southern calamari including frozen bait are included in both the north and south east coast closures.

Prohibiting the taking of both southern calamari and other species of squid such as Gould’s squid (arrow squid) ensures that calamari are not inadvertently taken by fishers targeting squid in these areas.

Deliberate misidentification of squid species by persons fishing illegally presents a significant risk to the integrity of prosecution cases. For frozen bait, advice from Tasmania Police is that differentiating frozen squid from squid caught in state waters is also a compliance issue.

Soft-shell clam alert An introduced soft-shell clam was recently detected on a beach near Orford in south east Tasmania. Biosecurity Tasmania is now managing the incursion of this species in accordance with national marine pest protocols. For more information see the Biosecurity Tasmania website at: www. dpipwe.tas.gov.au/softshellclam.

From Wednesday 11 July, taking and possessing soft shelled clams in state waters is prohibited. This is to help prevent the spread of the clam to other areas.

If you sight a suspected soft-shell clam, do not move it, instead contact Biosecurity Tasmania on phone 6165 3777 or email invasivespecies@dpipwe.tas.gov.au. A photo will assist with identification.

Water Colour

BY GREG FRENCH Master fly fisher, scientist and storyteller Greg French is one of Australia’s most brilliant and entertaining nature writers.

In Water Colour – a longawaited follow-up to the beloved and bestselling Frog Call (2002) – he shares wild and wondrous tales from a life spent in the natural world.

A constant undercurrent to Greg’s writing is his belief that recreational fishers are the best chance we have for environmental conservation and activism. It is these people who enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of nature, and its many proven health benefits, who are most engaged with caring for and protecting the wilderness.

Fishing News - Page 44

In Water Colour, Greg’s easygoing nature and zest for life come to the fore, as he shares some of his most treasured fishing spots, and the stories and people that go with them.

From teaching his niece and nephew the art of fly fishing in the spectacular Snowy River’s upper catchment, to wading through the perfectly transparent streams at the foothills of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, to rafting down the Arthur River amidst northwest Tasmania’s primal rainforest, Greg’s enthusiasm for nature and mateship is infectious.

Readers will reconnect with familiar characters – while the casual encounters with other nature lovers Greg meets on his travels become fascinating

An introduced soft-shell clam was recently detected on a beach near Orford.

Need more information?

Get a copy of the Recreational Sea Fishing Guide from Service Tasmania Download the Tasmanian Sea Fishing Guide app Go to www.fishing.tas.gov.au; or www.facebook.com/ FisheriesTasmania Phone: 1300 720 647 or 03 6165 3233 Email: fishing.enquiries@dpipwe.tas.gov.au

glimpses into the quirks of our relationships with each other and with the environment. Water Colour will delight anyone for whom fishing and friendship are always entwined.

About the Author G r e g Fr e n ch i s o n e o f Australia’s best-known fishing identities. He contributes regularly to magazines such as FlyLife and has worked with Gin-Clear Media, co-writing and narrating fly fishing documentaries.

Although he spends most of his time in Australia and New Zealand, he travels widely.

Greg’s most famous book is Trout Waters of Tasmania but he has also written about global destinations, notably in The Last

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Wild Trout. Greg’s literary nonfiction title Frog Call showcased a writing style that reached well beyond the angler audience. His books have been published in Australia, New Zealand and the US. Praise for Greg French ‘French’s books are wonderfully earnest. He’s always passionate, whether ser monising about park management practices or describing the catch of the day … when it comes to fishing for trout, he has an authority few can match.’

The Australian Water Colour is available from Essential Flyfisher - Launceston, Petrarchs Book Store, Launceston and good book stores.

Innovator HLS 2, #6 10ft Review.

Any angler who is serious about Fly Fishing for Trout from a boat needs to consider a 10ft Rod. Most lake rods sold are 9ft in Length, these work well from the bank, however they do have limitations when boat fishing.

10ft rods give the angler more control over there flies, allowing both hanging and dibbling to occur further away from the boat. The extra length also helps with fishing 3 fly casts and aids in the playing of fish. When combined with a long belly line a 10 ft rod allows the angler to lift long lines off the water, helping you to quickly cover rising fish at distance.

The Innovator HLS 2 #6 10ft is a medium / fast action rod, which is comfortable to cast and is more forgiving than some very fast action rods on the mark.

It can handle a range of different line types both floating and sinking, which is important when you consider the

range of fishing options you will encounter through the season. As with most modern high-performance rods it is best fished one-line weight up. That is a #7 floating line on the #6 rod.

Anglers new to 10 ft rods can sometimes find them heavier than 9ft rods. This is normally not due their weight but rather due to a balance issue. With modern reels getting lighter there is often not enough weight at the rear of the longer 10ft rod, this causes the rod to feel heavy and can lead to arm fatigue after a long day on the water. The Innovator has adjustable balances incorporated into the reel seat allowing the angler to customise the weight to optimise balance and performance allowing for varying reel weights and personal preferences.

The Innovator is a well-designed rod, which is well made and presented. The rod is well finished with a graphite colour, nickel fittings, a no nonsense adjustable reel seat, a well-designed small fighting butt and a comfortably shaped handle.

In developing the Innovator HLS 2 Mayfly tackle consulted widely with experienced competition boat anglers with performance as a principal design priority.

The result is a serious rod that represents excellent value for money.

Craig Coltman is the head guide for Rainbow Lodge based in the Central Highlands of Tasmania.

Past Captain of the Australian World Fly Fishing team and Current Captain of the Australian Commonwealth Fly Fishing Team.

STRAIGHT TO THE

Douglas ‘Upstream Plus’ fly rod review – Peter Hayes

A little over a year ago a client turned up on my casting pool sporting a new yellow fly rod. He was excited about how it cast and how it felt in his hand. This particular and distinctive rod was the first Douglas rod I had seen and cast. It was a dinky little multi piece, short, 3 weight.

I immediately fell in love with this rod and I would go so far as to say it is one of the very best small stream rods that I have ever cast. The rod was an ‘Upstream’ model and was a deep flexing rod that threw amazing line speed. Loops were miraculously ‘slung’ out of the butt of the rod with sizzling speed and wickedly sharp loops. If you are into small creek fishing you could do worse than make this rod your next purchase.

Move forward a year and I’m standing on the casting pool at the International Fly Tackle Dealers show in Orlando Florida. This is the biggest Fly tackle show on

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Fishing News - Page 45

the Planet and I have never seen so much gear under one roof. Here I met Fred who was the Douglas rod designer and we had great chats about rod design, materials, casting and fishing situations. Fred was the real deal and had been designing fly rods most of his life.

Testament to Fred’s respect and skills in this arena was reinforced to me when Jerry Siem (Sage Rod designer of many decades) and Steve Rajeff (World and US National casting champion and head rod designer for Loomis) came along to join in the chat. Fred was treated as a long time friend and their equal.

We were casting a Douglas ‘Upstream Plus’ 9 foot #5. This is more or less the standard length/weight fly

rod in the world. I loved this rod on the pool and got to fish with both the 4 and the 5 weight for the following couple of weeks in Montana. It is a sensational fly rod for trout fishing in my opinion. I love it so much it has been my spare client rod this season and always lives assembled in my car. Clients love it too!

Importantly this rod is a stronger mid flexing style rod that is up to most any type of casting. You might at first think it is better used on calmer days with a dry fly and longer leader and there would be good reason to think this.

At first cast you might think it is too soft or too light but a little time in your hand will confirm otherwise. In

recent times I think that rod designers have pushed us too far towards stiffer, faster actioned fly rods. It’s nice to see someone like Douglas come up with a really good FISHING rod that still casts with both power and grace.

Not so importantly the rod is a golden yellow that hints and smacks of tradition and quality. Ferrules are all spiggoted - which I like and the line up dots help with assembly. The bindings are all clear silk, again a traditional look usually only found on the top price cane rods. Again, I love the clear bindings that do not interfere with the continuity of the blank colour.

All in all the ‘Upstream Plus’ range of rods are fantastic. They are a great bit of kit in in appearance and feel. You will love to FISH with them and they cast like Ferrari’s drive.

Peter Hayes

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Fishing News - Page 47

Know your lifejacket

Better safety and facilities for Tasmanian boaters

Incorrectly worn or fitted lifejackets may not work effectively Make sure yours; • Fits • Is serviced regularly • You know how to use it • If it is inflatable - is it auto or manual inflate? Explain that to the crew

Scan the QR code above or go to www. mast.tas.gov.au to see MAST’s lifejacket awareness video.

Incorrectly worn or fitted lifejackets may not work effectively

MAST spend $1,000,000 every year improving your recreational boating facilities around Tasmania. THE BOATWISE COULD

Apply any time for better boating facilities. Go to www.mast.tas.gov.au

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