BNB Fishing Mag | January 2023 by bnbfishing

Free Angler’s Almanac inside 495

Includes GST

January 2023 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 34, Number 1

Marlin mayhem Changes to black jewfish regulations

9 771832 451001

Proudly produced and printed in Australia

www.bnbfishing.com.au

Moreton Bay mackerel

Scouting for barra

Fishing rig renos ISSN 1832-4517

Summertime snapper tips Cracking lure colour codes

Awesome family fishing areas

Estuary • Offshore • Freshwater • 4WD • Camping • Touring Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 1

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From the Bush ‘n Beach Fishing editor

ND just like that, the fireworks started, signalling the end of 2022 and the start of a new year. Last year would have been one of the worst I can remember, in terms of ordinary to horrific weather. I shouldn’t complain too much because not being able to get out in the boat as often as I wanted definitely pales in comparison to people losing their homes – which was so devastating to see. Fingers crossed 2023 will be better – which shouldn’t be too hard – touch wood. If what the weather experts have said is correct, we will continue to receive above-average rainfall in the north over the first few months of 2023 – time will tell. Unfortunately, it has been a few years since we’ve had a cyclone form and head down the east coast – so, who knows, we may be in line for that this year too. Last year also saw a lot of communication and, ultimately, regulation changes to Queensland fish species – namely spanish mackerel – with changes to bag and possession limits coming into effect on July 1, 2023. The first southern closures for spanish mackerel will run from February 1, 2023 to February 21, 2023 and March 1, 2023 to March 21, 2023.

After chatting with several people, I’m still in favour of this change, despite it impacting both recreational and commercial anglers, as it should help with the biomass of the species – and that is what these management strategies are all about. In December, I was fortunate to be involved with a Moreton Bay working group discussion, where a mix of options were tabled with the aim of ensuring sustainability and fishing access to Moreton Bay. Obviously, with a variety of stakeholders present, there were very mixed ideas on how we can ensure the sustainability of fish, crabs and other marine life. Hopefully, I can continue to be involved with the working group and help it implement some positive management strategies for Moreton Bay. Though I may need to attend any future meetings via a Zoom chat – my family and I have bitten the bullet and decided to embark on a sixmonth trip around our lucky country. This trip was initially planned for June 2022, however due to pandemic restrictions in Western Australia and border issues, we canned it because it all got a bit too hard. While the initial plan – if we were departed

Follow our travels via Bush ‘n Beach Adventures on Instagram and Facebook, and the blog bnbadven tures.com.au

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in June – was to head anti-clockwise, our new departure date in December means we’ll be heading in the opposite direction. Our planning of this trip was also a little different to the previous one, as we have only a few places pre-booked for the six-month sojourn. The thinking behind this was that we could stay longer if we found a place we really liked and leave those we don’t enjoy at our leisure. Obviously, we have a rough plan that will have us in Stanthorpe for a week, which was booked already, before the last-minute call to do the lap. Our travels will take us to South Australia, where we hope to spend a month, then Western Australia including the Kimberley for about 3-4 months, with a visit to the Top End before our journey home. Our Starlink satellite has arrived, which has reception all over Australia, so I’ll still be involved in the production of the magazine while on our sortie. When at the office, initial testing of the satellite provided awesome results, though for how it performs when we’re out and about, I’ll keep you posted. We’ll include trip and adventure articles in the mag, so you can keep up with our journey there. I’m also in the process of setting up a blog site, Instagram and Facebook for our travels, and these will have more detailed information. The tag name for Facebook and Instagram is Bush ‘n Beach Adventures, and the blog will be bnbadven tures.com.au Fingers crossed these are all live by the time

this edition hits the stands. In some very exciting news, Collins Media has been given permission by Peter Layton, editor of The Great Outdoors Publications, to print the Angler’s Almanac in Bush ‘n Beach Fishing – see page 66. These predictions are

based on knowledge accumulated by many fishing cultures around the world – I use them and can attest to their effectiveness. As quoted out of the old Angler’s Almanac, “any time’s a good time for fishing – these are the best times of all.” Ben Collins

OUR COVER Free Angler’s Almanac inside

495

Includes GST

January 2023 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 34, Number 1

Marlin mayhem Changes to black jewfish regulations

9 771832 451001

Proudly produced and printed in Australia

www.bnbfishing.com.au

Moreton Bay mackerel

Scouting for barra

Fishing rig renos ISSN 1832-4517

Summertime snapper tips Cracking lure colour codes

Awesome family fishing areas

Estuary • Offshore • Freshwater • 4WD • Camping • Touring Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 1

Fisheries Queensland executive director DALLAS D’SILVA hit the water at Mourilyan recently and landed this solid coral trout. It is important that Fisheries Queensland representatives know firsthand about commercial and recreational fishing to ensure positive and sustainable management strategies can be formulated and implemented.

NEXT EDITION: February edition will be on sale in newsagents from January 27. JANUARY SUBSCRIPTION OFFER: See the subscription form on Page 84 and subscribe this month to go in the draw to win one of five Saltwater Estuary tackle boxes from Tackle Club, valued at over $75 RRP each. NOVEMBER PRIZE WINNERS: Congratulations to J. Kinman, Banksia Beach; J. Furlong; Carindale; G. Green, Grafton; J. Burton, Ningi; K. Armstrong, Tin Can Bay – each will receive a Z-Man pack from Tackle Tactics to the value of $75. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 5

January 2023 contents Boat outfitters outdo themselves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Conlon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P8 Tide Times - Brisbane Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P8 Schools of fun in Moreton Bay... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . P12 Tips for hot summer action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Keith Stratford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P16 Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club sign-on day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P19 Awesome areas for family fishing fun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mark Templeton . . . . . . . . . . . . P20 Summertime snapper pointers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Ben Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P24 Recipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Melissa Frohloff . . . . . . . . . . . . P27 Cracking lure colour codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Clint Ansell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P28 Solid boat-christening session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Gavin Dobson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P32 Warm weather equates to fierce fishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Brett Hyde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P34 Competition Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P36 Hot nighttime jewfish and flathead action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Tye Porter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P38 Doughnut management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Bekkers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P40 Charter Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P46 New year’s gift for black jewfish fishos ��P48 Weather dampens getaways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Craig Tomkinson . . . . . . . . . . . . P50 Tailor, flatties, jacks fire in TCB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Chris Rippon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P52 Mixing it up with marlin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Tri Ton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P54 Tide Times - Waddy Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P56 Seventeen Seventy BNB Trophy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mick Clutterbuck . . . . . . . . . . . P58 Summer fun in Bustard Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Paul ‘Chief’ Graveson . . . . . . . P60 Fitzroy River Barra Bash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by John Boon ��P62 Product News ��P64 Angler’s Almanac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P66 Insights into boat insurance ��P67 Angler Boats RSF 149 review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Paul ‘Chief’ Graveson . . . . . . . P68 Mercury sustainability for Queensland office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P69 Lowrance unveils new gen ultimate fishing system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P70 Stacer Sea Masters are made for summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P71 Yellowfin 7000 Centre Cabin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P72 Mercury Marine introduces V10 outboards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P73 Tips from Move Boat Trailers ��P74 Facts about feral felines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Neil Schultz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P76 Wyaralong Dam pest fish comp wrap up ��P78 DAFF released National Carp Control Plan ��P78 Scouting barramundi in summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sam Rowley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P79 OFFSA Carp Busting event ��P80 Size change request by all recreational anglers. . . . . . . . by Brian Dare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P81 DAF’s new pest fish principal policy officer ��P82 Dam Levels ��P82 Readers’ Forum ��P83 Subscription Form ��P84 Page 6 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

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Our website bnbfishing.com.au is updated several times a day with the latest news and handy fishing articles.

The Team

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

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

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 7

Boat outfitters outdo themselves

HAT is 2023 Southern Moreton Bay going to bring? by SEAN CONLON Hopefully, with a bit of luck, some good consistlet’s hope the weathent weather, but I won’t for birds working. Anyway, there are a er plays the game this be holding my breath. I managed only a cou- couple of options for month and we can all ple of days on the water summer and the school get out on the water a bit more. since writing my last ar- holidays. AUSTRALIA EAST COAST As I said, I didn’t get I was looking at getting ticle. AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – BRISBANE BARwas quite out on the water much a slightly bigger boat to The fishing BRISBANE BAR LAT 27° 22ʼ S LONG 153° 10ʼgood, E * continued P10 with a few nice prior to writing this, so Times and Heights of High and Low Waters Time Zone –1000 flathead caught still, JANUARY FEBRUARY APRIL even MARCH though the water’s Time m Time m Time m Time m Time m Time m Time m Time m warming up.0420 2.15 0411 1.89 0605 2.23 0626 2.39 2.02 2.19 2.04 0629 2.12 1 0521 1 0648 1 0509 16 1 16 1127 0.88 16 1011 0.95 1331 0.87 16 1248 0.82 1209 0.99 1116 0.89 1315 0.53 1316 0.78 All the usual techSU 1711 1.87 MO 1559 1.88 WE 1734 1.50 TH 1646 1.60 WE 1856 1.62 TH 1811 1.69 SA 1903 1.76 SU 1902 2.02 niques worked quite well 2238 0.61 2243 0.75 2345 0.52 2319 0.84 –0617 such at the 0055 0.78 0621 2.15 0523 2.03 0055 0.62 0020 0.58 2.11as casting 0544 2.26 0.57 2 1240 0.86 17 1135 0.92 2 0738 2.28 17 0711 2.41 2 drains 2 0715 2.20 17 0104 0720 2.45 1312 0.88 17 1241 0.75 at low tide and 1710 1.81 1400 0.67 1811 1.72 1354 0.69 1403 0.43 1812 1.79 1422 0.78 1845 1.59 MO TU TH FR TH FR SU MO 2342 0.55 1922 1.79 1954 2.18 1950 1.68 working the mangrove 1943 1.90 0.49 0629 2.21 0.57 0128 0.46 0031 at 0.77 0007 0.65 0.67 0202 0.49 high tide. 3 0035 3 0145 3 line 3 0142 0755 2.27 18 0808 2.45 0713 2.26 18 1256 0.82 0821 2.35 18 0809 2.57 0710 2.20 18 0652 2.42 TU 1342 0.81 WE 1820 1.79 FR 1504 0.71 SA 1457 0.53 FR 1357 SA 1344 MO 1429 0.62 TU 1445 0.37 The0.78water was0.60 rather 2023 1.90 1917 1.88 2017 2.02 1908 1.74 2033 1.74 1934 1.71 2039 2.32 dirty around this end of 0121 0.47 0228 0.52 0127 0.68 0043 0.47 0228 0.35 0118 0.52 0224 0.59 0254 0.45 4 0759 2.35 19 0728 2.40 4 0900 2.39 19 0900 2.69 4 the 19to0748the2.55 weath-4 0830 2.31 19 0851 2.39 0755bay 2.28due 1406 0.69 1546 0.43 1435 0.47 1500 0.56 1435 0.74 1541 0.67 1435 0.71 WE SA SA TH SU SU TU WE 1522 0.35 er we’ve 1926 1.80 2115 2.02 2052 2.12 1959 1.72 2110 1.80 2014 1.82 had.2012 2.04 2121 2.43 It will 0203 0.45 0306 0.48 0321 0.26 0211 0.59 probably 0.45 0141 0.39 0218 0.40 stay 0303 0.54 5 0840 2.40 20 0823 2.56 5 0936 2.42 20 0946 2.75 5 that 5 0903 2.31 20 0341 0833 way 2.34 20 0930 2.30 2.62 so for 0838 a while, TH 1520 0.70 FR 1507 0.57 SU 1615 0.65 MO 1631 0.37 SU 1510 0.65 MO 1519 0.39 WE 1531 0.50 TH 1555 0.34 2044 1.73 2143 1.85 2203 2.11 2048 1.91 coloured 2201 2.50 2027 1.85 2100 2.17lures 2128 2.22 darker 0242 0.44 0341 0.45 0410 0.23 0249 definitely 0.52 0.50 0235 0.31 0310 0.33 best 0342 0.53 will work 6 0919 2.43 21 0915 2.69 6 1009 2.44 21 1030 2.74 6 –0908whether 6 0936 2.29 21 0425 2.39 21 0922 2.62 1009 2.17 a soft plastic 1601 0.67 1712 0.35 1541 0.61 1626 0.37 1645 0.64 1602 0.46 1602 0.47 1600 0.34 FR MO TU MO TH FR SA TU 2123 1.74 2249 2.19 2120 1.99 2241 2.52 2215 1.90 2203 2.30 2124 1.90 or hard-body.2145 2.29 0.43 0328 0.25 0.44 0456 0.26 0.31 0.57 southern bay flathead on a Zerek Kiri0.54 caught0507 a nice As 0.48 I said, I think 7 0317 7 0415 7 0325 22 0357 7 0421 0955 2.44 22 1003 2.77 1040 2.44 22 1111 2.66 0940 2.40 1002 2.56 the 1008 2.23 22 1045 2.02 Tango 1611 0.58 1635 continue 0.33 0.44 Shad. SA 1637 0.67 SU 1653 0.41 TU 1714 0.62 WE 1748 0.36 TU dirty WEwill FR 1631 SA 1655 0.42 water 2158 1.75 2216 1.96 2153 2.06 2226 2.37 2247 1.94 2239 2.35 2332 2.23 2318 2.50 over summer,0441 simply be- 0500 0.57 0449 0.46 0351 0.44 0417 0.22 0540 0.36 0400 0.47 0.36 0549 0.66 8 1030 2.43 23 1050 2.79 8 1110 2.42 23 1149 2.50 8 cause 1011 2.40 of 23 the 1041 wind2.44 we’ve8 1041 2.14 23 1121 1.87 1723 0.50 1700 0.45 WE 1743 0.60 TH 1823 0.40 SU 1710 0.67 MO 1740 0.38 WE 1640 0.54 TH 1708 0.35 had, which 2307 stirs 2.41 thingsSA 2315 2.38 SU 2356 2.43 2231 1.76 2307 2.00 2227 2.12 2322 1.96 0.45 0506 0.25 0.51 0015 2.23 0436 0.49 0524 0.46 0.64 0630 0.77 9 0425 9 0524 9 up. 9 0540 1103 2.41 24 1135 2.74 1140 2.36 24 0623 0.51 1040 2.36 24 1117 2.27 1116 2.02 24 1158 1.73 From what I can see MO 1741 0.68 TU 1823 0.39 TH 1812 0.60 FR 1227 2.30 TH 1708 0.52 FR 1738 0.40 SU 1729 0.49 MO 1752 0.60 2305 1.78 2355 2.02 2300the 2.16shallows 2346 2.40 2359 1.98 1856 0.47 in around 2354 2.37 0600 0.60 0500 0.48 0553 0.33 0059 2.20 0512 0.54 0605 0.59 0034 2.33 bay, it’s like a layer 0623 0.72 10 1135 2.39 25 1219 2.62 10 1211 2.28 25 0709 0.68 10 the 1110 2.29 25 1152 2.08 10 1155 1.89 25 0715 0.86 1736silt, 0.51which 0.47have may FR 1842 0.60 SA 1303 2.07 MO 1801 0.55 TU 1238 1.60 TU 1813 0.69 WE 1904 0.43 FR of SA 1807 2342 1.78 1928 0.55 2336 2.18 1827 0.72 been left from all the 0536 0.54 0043 2.03 0037 1.97 0548 0.62 0026 2.35 0038 2.34 0145 2.14 0116 2.21 we 26 had0648 throughout 11 1209 2.34 26 0641 0.47 11 0639 0.70 26 0800 0.86 11 fresh 1140 2.18 0.74 11 0714 0.80 26 0810 0.93 1803 0.53 SU 1228 1.87 WE 1845 0.69 TH 1301 2.45 SA 1243 2.17 SU 1344 1.84 SA 2022. TU 1243 1.75 WE 1330 1.51 1944 0.48 1914 0.61 1835 0.57 1842 0.63 2004 0.65 1911 0.85 Plenty bream 0130 2.28 0021 1.78 0132 2.01 0120 1.97 0013 2.18 of good 0107 2.26 0209 2.10 0240 2.07 12 0615 0.62 27 0731 0.63 12 0725 0.81 27 0904 1.00 12 were 27 0736the 12 0820 0.86 27 0920 0.96 0627 0.71 0.88shalup around TH 1243 2.28 FR 1343 2.24 SU 1320 2.03 MO 1434 1.64 SU 1214 2.04 MO 1306 1.68 WE 1346 1.63 TH 1445 1.47 1921 0.69 2024 0.54 1950 0.63 1832 0.57 1908 they’ve 0.70 1938 0.73 2013 0.96 2051 0.75 lows too and 0104 1.77 0227 2.00 0213 1.97 0054 2.17 0154 2.15 tak- 0240 2.23 0349 2.03 0315 2.03 been quite happily 13 0659 0.72 28 0828 0.81 13 0824 0.92 28 1036 1.05 13 ing 0713 0.82 28 0837 0.99 13 0946 0.86 28 1032 0.93 a lure, but some nice FR 1319 2.20 SA 1429 2.02 MO 1410 1.87 TU 1554 1.51 MO 1253 1.89 TU 1357 1.53 TH 1515 1.58 FR 1621 1.52 2000 0.68 2106 0.59 2038 0.67 1907 0.62 1952 0.83 2158 0.83 2140 1.00 fresh bait such as mullet 2059 0.80 0156 1.77 0144 2.14 0330 1.99 0323 1.99 0255 2.05 0401 2.24 2.02 squid 14 0749 0.82 29 0936 0.94 14 0944 0.98 14 fillet, 29or1006pillies 14 1110 0.78 29 0428 0813 0.91 1.02 has 1131 0.86 1346 done 1.73 WE 1524 1.44 SA 1401 2.09 SU 1522 1.81 TU also TU 1520 1.73 FR 1648 1.66 SA 1730 1.65 the trick. 2045 0.67 1957 0.70 2156 0.64 2145 0.69 2100 0.94 2231 0.78 2305 0.95 Hopefully,0415 a2.00 few 0520 2.31 0258 1.80 0441 2.03 0446 2.08 0252 2.11 0530 2.07 15 0853 0.91 30 1100 1.00 15 1118 0.94 15 speedsters 15 1218 0.65 30 1219 0.77 0937 0.95 30in 1132 the0.97form 1803 1.83 1820 1.80 SU 1454 1.98 MO 1630 1.67 WE 1648 1.66 WE 1507 1.61 TH 1712 1.49 of and0.96tunaSA 2355 0.68 SU 2137 0.65 2254 0.67 2305 0.66 2111mackerel 0.76 2236 should turn 0531 up in2.04good 2.10 31 0549 31 1226 0.96 1231 0.88 numbers this month, so TU 1747 1.60 FR 1817 1.62 2357 0.66 2358 I’d 0.89look if chasing them, from around Peel Island © Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2021, Bureau of Meteorology and northwards. Moon First Quarter Datum ofNew Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide Look for clean water, FullSymbols Moon Moon Phase Fullthey MoonpreNewLast Moon Quarter First Quarter Last Quarter as that’s what Nick scored a decent 69cm flathead on a Zerek Bull7 fer and, as usual, look dog Crank.

Tide Times

2023

Page 8 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 9

The old Aussie Whaler before any work was done to it. Pictures make it look a lot better than it was. It had heaps of chips and scratches in the gelcoat.

Tony put the details on top of the satin black wrap, so that if anything’s damaged, it can be removed and new ones put on without the boat being out of commission. The finished product with all the decals on the satin black background. It came up a treat.

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Tony put the satin black wrap on.

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

WITH SEAN CONLON

take a few more people and explored a fair few options but unfortunately everything I looked at was slightly shy of $100,000 completed and, if being in the charter game for the past 14 years has taught me anything, I felt there was no way of making that money back in the short term. So, I explored the options of a second-hand boat and came across an old Aussie Whaler, which for what I do was ideal because it’s basically a big square platform that allows plenty of deck space for everyone to fish from. It was a boat-licensing vessel for many years and has been reasonably well looked after – it’s a centre console with a 135hp Mercury OptiMax on the back, which will be replaced with a four-stroke in time, but it’ll do the job for now. We’ll do it up but not spend a ridiculous amount of money on it,

so everything will be to get the best bang for our buck with the best impact because, at the end of the day, the boat has to look good, be functional and reliable. So, the first thing on the agenda was to strip everything not needed for fishing charters, which took a while, and then I assessed the boat. I realised that the gelcoat had lost its lustre and shine. We possibly could have buffed it a bit, but it had a few chips and scratches as well, so in the end we decided not to spend a heap of money on painting it and went with a wrap. I called my long-time friend Tony from Underwood Same Day Signs on 0418 452 054 and told him what I was after. He came up with a design that I was very happy with, and as a mobile business, he also travelled to the island I live on to do the job, * continued P11

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Boat outfitters outdo themselves * from P10

which helped me out immensely. After a big day, the wrap looked absolutely fantastic and changed the boat’s appearance so much for the better – 1000 percent, money well spent – a big thank you, Tony. The next thing on the fix list was the floor. This boat had done a fair few years of boat licensing, so it had had plenty of foot traffic over that time. It was looking a bit sorry for itself and the easiest way to give it a facelift was to put nice ethylene vinyl acetate flooring in. Before getting to that point, I’d done a bit of research on which company to use, including one on social media that had very good reviews. I dropped in to seeDeck Armour and they were so helpful and a pleasure to deal with. They even came down to the pontoon at Redland Bay to measure everything up, which saved me a trip on the barge.

Then once that was sorted, I took the boat over to Redland Bay to their factory. They came up with a design – that was way better than mine – then went to work. I came back a few days later to pick up my boat and it was totally transformed. The flooring looked a million dollars and changed the boat completely. The EVA flooring was super soft, which was a welcome surprise to me, and will be great to work on. Deck Armour assured me that it’s also durable. With this product, they turned what was a very ordinary floor into a piece of art. I must thank the crew from Deck Armour at Redland Bay – an awesome job. I can’t thank you enough and cannot wait to get customers’ reactions on it too. The other thing on the boat we talked about already was the custom-made bait board for the back.

The before picture of the old floor.

The after photo – the crew at Deck Armour completely transformed the inside of the boat. It was definitely money well spent. www.bnbfishing.com.au

This product from Bait Mate will make a huge difference. I had it built to a certain height so I won’t have to do too much bending to get tackle – most know I have a bit of a dodgy back and the custom height of the bait board will help me immensely. So far, this is all the work we’ve done to the boat. If you need any quality work undertaken, look up the businesses that have helped me. They’re local, do brilliant work, the prices are fair and, most of all, they’ve been a pleasure to deal with – nothing was too hard for any of them. I’m very happy with the outcomes. We still have a few more things to purchase and do to the boat but will possibly talk about those in next month’s article. The whole reason for purchasing a new boat was to get back to taking up to five passengers fishing. Hopefully, by the time this article comes out, we will have achieved that goal. As we all know, with our jobs and our lives, we are time poor, so if you can learn more to optimise your time on the water, then why not? Remember, knowledge is the key. Until next month, stay safe on the water and, if you’re interested in any of our tuition classes or you want to do a fishing charter, give me a call 0432 386 307 or send me an email at seanconlonsfishing@hotmail. com or check out the Facebook page Seano’s Inshore Fishing Charters and Tuition.

The before picture of the old floor.

The after photo – super happy with the results of Deck Armour’s work.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 11

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The author’s neighbour Doug with one of the thumper winter whiting about.

Schools of fun in Moreton Bay

ELL, school may be out but there are schools of fun to be had in Moreton Bay currently. Two of my favourite species to target in the bay were about in good numbers towards the back end of last year, in the form of schools of winter whiting and school mackerel. Even better, as we get further into January, schools of banana prawns in the deeper holes of the rivers and tiger and bay prawns in the Moreton Bay foreshore shallows at night will also be increasingly available. Winter whiting in summer So, let’s start with schools of whiting. They have continued in good numbers around the Rous Channel and in front of the Sandhills, for those with bigger boats to access them.

Fishing Tips by SEAN THOMPSON

At this time of year, I find the ideal depth for them – at least around the Rous – is between 2.5-3.5m of water. As usual, I prefer to drift for my whiting, though anchoring can work if you use berley. If using berley, I prefer to make it from pre-mixed pellets with a flavouring, such as aniseed in a delicates laundry bag. It’s a good idea to buy your own specifically for making berley because your partner won’t appreciate you using theirs! I use my flavoured pre-mix inside a berley cage. This type of berley is ideal as it releases the scent in a cloud of dissolved pellets that won’t fill up the fish. This method is par-

ticularly effective around the slower change of tide period. While some people fish only the rising tide when targeting winter whiting, even the change of tide period can be effective with the use of berley during the slow run, keeping the fish nearby. The other little trick you can apply to fire winteries up during the slow change of tide is to cast out and start a medium-fast retrieve. It’s amazing the number of times it will stir the fish into action. When it comes to bait, some people swear by red-dyed squid, though I can’t go past red-dyed frozen bloodworms and Berkley Gulp 2” Sandworm in Bloody colour. I use these on a simple * continued P14

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 13

A selection of the author’s school mackerel trolling lures.

A nice bag of winter whiting from using berley over the change of tide period on the low. Schools of banana prawns will start appearing this month.

Page 14 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Schools of fun in Moreton Bay

* from P12

paternoster rig with a small size 2 or 3 sinker on the bottom, to ensure the hook isn’t catching in the weed while drifting. I then run the droppers up about 30-40cm from the sinker and then another up a similar distance, with a swivel another 20cm or so above that. For the droppers, I make these about 15cm long and run a couple of 3-4cm pieces of plastic tubing above the hooks. This red tubing serves two purposes – a bright red colour that looks like an extension of the worm and to cover the eye of the hook with the tubing closest to it, in an attempt to reduce

bite-offs by greedy grinners. School mackerel Trolling lures has long been one of my favourite techniques when fishing from a boat, so it was a natural transition for me to chase school mackerel using this technique in Moreton Bay. This was only my third season actively targeting these speedy critters trolling and I have become addicted to it. One of the reasons I love trolling so much is because of the scream of the reel when hooked up to a fish! The excitement of a screaming reel is certainly loud, clear and hard to beat – the ratch-

et of an overhead or drag of a big spinning reel going off as line peels off when a school mackerel chomps down on your spoon or trolling jig lure – fantastic! I had some awesome sessions with a friend over late winter and spring, with 20-30 fish in one trip, even though many were marginally under the legal size of 50cm. When it comes to technique, this is one advantage of being an avid fishing-magazine reader. I’m not one for reading many of the fishing forum chats on social media. I much prefer to go to a more reliable source

* continued P15

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Schools of fun in Moreton Bay * from P14

of truth – from respected magazine writers or those with well-established and dependable local knowledge. In this case, I’ve learnt from Manly local Spero Kartanos, who has written about chasing this species for many years and shares his knowledge freely. On top of that, I’ve invested in the gear he uses and recommends, which is well stocked by Toni Watson at Water Tower Bait and Tackle at Manly, my local. If you are further afield, try your local tackle shop, they tend to have more specialised gear for this than the bigger retail fishing camping outdoors chains. Basically, the technique I’ve employed from this advice – noting that I’m still learning by trial and error – is to follow depth contour lines on my Lowrance HDS Live sounder in the range of 7-9m, or to look for schools of bonito active on the surface and troll underneath those. If using a trolling board, Toni has a few choices, however my best experiences have

come with the larger 18cm boards by Flashmer and the new white boards by OceanStream. The red and orange boards are other options. I then troll around 5.5-6.5 knots with these bigger boards. Though if you use the smaller 15cm boards, you should drop your speed down to around 5 knots or they’ll pop up to the surface too much. The white boards have a towing eye that you can adjust to change the depth they dive – 3-5m. I’m finding around the middle of the towing point hole is a good place to start. You should then tie your mainline to the towing eye via a loop knot, which I find works better for me than a snap swivel, as I found the boards were spinning a bit when I did this. I also prefer not to tie braid direct to the board because you definitely want some stretch in the line when the fish hits, and as you fight it, particularly close to the boat with a long trace. A lack of stretch close to the boat will tear the lure from the fish’s mouth and you’ll

look on in despair as it swims away. So, you can either spool up with around 40lb mono or at the very least, add around 10m of monofilament fluorocarbon leader before you tie on the board. Next, you want to tie a short leader of 50cm or so between the middle eye of the bottom of the board and a swivel to remove line twist. This leader should be around 40-50lb. Then finally, you want to tie on a long 5m trace of fluorocarbon leader from the swivel to your lure. In terms of lures, again I’ve found Spero’s advice was on the money. As a consequence, I use either chrome, chrome-gold or chrome-chartreuse in 3” spoons with a single hook, or the chrome or white Halco Smith jigs – which Toni or Mr Bait at Hemmant usually have good stocks of. Prawns As noted earlier, this month is when prawns start turning up in numbers, but that’s a story for another issue. So that’s it, until next time, I hope to see you on my Facebook, Instagram or YouTube pages – Ontour Fishing Australia.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 15

The author with a nice school jewfish taken from the Brisbane River.

Tips for hot summer action

Phil with a big mud crab caught recently.

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Page 16 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

ELCOME to the new year! The last one certainly flew by. Let’s hope this one slows down a bit and is full of fish for everyone. January is one of the busiest months of the year on the water. Many people from down south will still be basking in our sunshine and that will continue throughout the month. Areas such as the Gold Coast Broadwater, Jumpinpin Channel and the Nerang River can be chaotic on a nice day. Oversized cruisers, jet skis and almost every other type of boat you can imagine will be flying around these areas. Even on a nice day, it’s like travelling through a washing machine. If you are going to fish busy areas such as this, it’s a good idea to get on the water super early and be back off it by about 8am, when the traffic starts to increase. Though the fish still need to eat, and it’s amazing how well they adapt to boat traffic. The Gold Coast Sea-

Local Luring by KEITH STRATFORD

way is a good example. This place never ceases to amaze anglers, with good catches of flathead, jewfish, mangrove jack and many others – even with the hundreds of boats that use it to fish or travel offshore. The rivers and creeks around Brisbane will also be busy, but nothing

like the Gold and Sunshine coasts. The past couple of years, a great run of flatties turned up around Christmas and hung around through to the end of January. These fish were generally school size, between 40-50cm, with the oc* continued P18

The occasional big flathead will be hanging around smaller fish over January.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 17

Jake Bayliss took some time off from riding winners to get among some mud crabs recently.

Tips for hot summer action * from P16

Big rusty bucks will be on the menu during January.

School jewfish were around in good numbers. Page 18 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

casional bigger fish among them – though the numbers certainly made up for the size, with big quantities turning up in some places. Most of the fish I’ve come across were in the deeper holes closer to mouth. These spots will also hold school jew at this time of year, especially if the area is holding lots of bait. These little jewies have turned up in most systems and will happily eat a well-presented lure. Soft plastics are my favourite way to chase them, but smaller soft vibes have also proven deadly. The smaller Samaki Vibelicious work well and can catch a lot of other species – such as flathead, bream and grunter – that are likely

to be feeding in the same location. Mud crabs started turning up in good numbers. As soon as the temperature began to rise, they got hungry and have shown up throughout most systems. I don’t bother crabbing during spring months because the numbers are low, and it can be hard work getting a feed. Unfortunately, there are quite a few people still checking and stealing pots. I’ve had several checked already and one even cut open. Mud crabs aren’t that hard to catch, so stick to your own pots and everyone will get a feed and be happy. I always swear by fresh bait when I’m crabbing and will

change the bait either daily or at least every second day. I prefer to put a mix of chicken frames and mullet or some other fish in each pot. I’ve done a fair bit of testing over the years and have found a variety of fish and chicken in each pot works better than straight chicken or straight fish. Remember to mark your floats and pots correctly too. Many people use the same type of floats and, during the holiday period particularly, there can be a lot of pots in the water. Marking them clearly will ensure you can see other people going near or checking yours. That’s it from me for this month. Enjoy the start of the year and I hope to see you on the water.

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Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club sign-on day

HE Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club is an amateur fishing club that has something for every fisho, at any skill level. The club is full of like-minded people who love the outdoors and fishing. The RBAFC has been established for about 30 years now and started with a few anglers at the Redland Bay Hotel – their love of having a yarn and comparing catches. Over many years and due to the hard work of some dedicated members, the club evolved from its humble beginnings at the hotel to what it is today. The RBAFC has its own clubhouse on the water at 247-257 Esplanade Redland Bay, on the corner of Weinam St and up the road from

Wienem Creek Boat Ramp. The club has even built a two-storey viewing deck to take in the awesome views of the southern bay. With the fishing sector pushing for more sustainability over the past 10 years, myself and likeminded members were encouraged to include a catch-andrelease competition into the club, known as the Sports Fishing Challenge. This is a monthly comp, with the opportunity to catch-and-release fish and still have the chance to take home some awesome prizes from our valued sponsors. While I’m all for taking home a feed as much as the next person, I love nothing more than seeing a prize fish swim

away to give other anglers as much joy as it gave me – this is where this competition comes into its own. The challenge is for members of the RBAFC only, which includes an inshore section, offshore section and member’s choice prize. Inshore and offshore sportfishing is governed by the same rules as our current competition boundaries, while member’s choice is open to catches from anywhere worldwide, though must be by a current member. This will be explained in more detail in the rules and information handouts at sign-on day. Entries are submitted via a photo on a brag mat with a code clearly shown in plain view and also, a photo of the member holding the fish directly after capture.

Some of the agenda items on the club’s packed calendar are Stradbroke Island and K’gari beach fishing competitions and camping trips – a fourwheel-drive is required – freshwater dam trips, artificial bait days, social days, inshore and offshore fishing competition, monthly meetings – third Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm – and Redland Bay Hotel raffles. This means that for

three of the four weekends in the month, we have something on the RBAFC calendar. Sign-on day at the club for 2023 is on February 5, from 11am to 3pm. We will have a casting competition and possible cooking demonstration, and a jumping castle and face painting for the kids. Hope to see you there on sign-on day. Come and say g’day. Matt Savas

The RBAFC has something for every fisho.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 19

Linc landed an awesome grunter.

White Patch is a go-to place on Bribie Island for the author.

Awesome areas for family fishing fun

ICK of the kids being at home already, with nothing to do and always saying ‘I’m bored’? There are so many awesome places you can take them or even drop them off for a few hours to give yourself a break! You can spend a couple of hundred of your hard earned going to theme parks and other attractions, where you

Northern Moreton Bay by MARK TEMPLETON

can fight crowds and there’s an EFTPOS machine everywhere you look or… pack up the fishing gear, grab some bait and let them loose on one of the local piers, riverbanks or even the beach! One hour from Bris-

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bane will get you from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast, with so many places in between, you can do multiple trips over the holidays. Make some holiday savings and bypass all the theme parks – head to Wellington Point or even Jacobs Well. I bet you cannot remember the last time you fished or even visited down that way. Grab some bait or flick some lures, fish from the bank or hire a tinnie from Brett at Jacobs Well. Like most places, the water there holds a lot of awesome fish, and the surroundings can be amazing, if you spend a few hours exploring. Sandgate, Woody Point and Redcliffe are three areas you need to put on the ‘must visit list’ – all have great jetties where you can let the kids go and fish without worrying where they are. A few of these places may have some restrictions.

As an example, you can use a cast net on the Woody Point Jetty at different times, but you cannot use one on the Redcliffe Jetty or Shorncliffe Pier at all – local council penalties apply. Nudgee Beach, Deepwater Bend and Dohles Rocks are all places that can make for a great day out with the family. All in all, still short trips, but all of these areas are family friendly, so spend the day and be home before dark. White Patch, Bongaree, Red Beach, Skirmish Point and Bribie Island Surfside Beach – and, if it’s too windy on one side of Bribie, take a 10-minute drive to the other side – it can be dramatically different from one side to the other. It is a beautiful place to visit and there are plenty of services and family friendly areas. White Patch would have to be my go-to place on the island. Another family friendly destination with awesome views is Beachmere – not a high traffic area and a bit of a hidden gem too.

Beachmere is overlooked by many because they are focused on getting to Bribie and totally miss the turnoff. Beachmere has to be one of the most relaxing places I have been to, with plenty of great beach space for the kids to burn energy, plus the fishing can be extraordinary. If you are relying on public transport, Shorncliffe and Sandgate both have stations. From either station, it is a 10-minute walk to the ocean, and the shop is only a short walk from Sandgate station. It doesn’t matter where you end up these holidays, a time-saving idea is to have a bag packed with essentials ready and waiting in the car. Bottled water, sunscreen, spare hats, a basic first-aid kit and another bag with a change of clothes, a couple of towels and of course, an emergency toilet roll! Kids will always find that one bit of water to fall into. If you leave these small bags in the car over the holidays, they * continued P21

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Awesome family fishing fun areas * from P20

might save you having to head for home early and also save you from an embarrassing situation. Our website includes fishing locations and techniques – however the photos of the locations will be slightly out of date due to the recent flooding we had. The locations are still safe but could be under repair. If you need some more ideas on taking the kids fishing, jump onto our website and have a read of the articles written by our customers – this could save you time and possibly a headache – tackleland.com.au/posts I would like to rehash some old but still relevant advice. Before you hit the wa-

ter, double check your safety gear for serviceability and check the dates on your flares because if your gear is not up to speed, it will not save you or your family when it has to. We’re frequently asked, “Should I have an emergency position indicating radio beacon?” Well, the default answer is, if you need immediate help and your phone is not working or you’re out of range, then all you need to do is flick the EPIRB switch. They are not cheap, are not required in all regions, but an EPIRB could save a life if someone’s having a heart attack, an allergic reaction or an emergency medical episode. Food for thought. No, we don’t sell them,

but if you decided to get one, do a bit of research on a reputable supplier. Recently, Linc had the time of his life with his dad Andy. They set out for an overnight adventure, and it turned out to be just that. Both Linc and Andy had the best time out in the boat on the water and they caught some cracker fish too. Linc landed an awesome grunter, which wasn’t bad at all considering this species can cause a bit of grief. Great effort on the catch Linc and well done Andy for helping to make memories that Linc will talk about for years. Enjoy the time spent together and maintain the passion!

Shorncliffe Pier is a great spot to take the kids fishing.

Dohles Rocks is one local place that can make for a great day out with the family.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 21

Back in

black

Anglers can soon fish for an old favourite after new research confirmed a healthy stock level of black jewfish.

Key findings of the research showed that spawning happens throughout Central Queensland waters from November to February each year, females produce on average around 4.5 million eggs each spawning season, and a large proportion of old fish are still present within the population.

Fishing for black jewfish in Queensland has been limited since 2019 after escalating catches and an increase in black marketing raised concerns over its sustainability. While precautionary management measures were put in place, a research project commenced to understand the biology of the species and collect important data on the fishery. This information was used to inform a stock assessment on the species and shed light on future management options. Researchers carried out genetic work to identify how many populations existed and used acoustic tagging to track the species’ movements. They also performed dissections to understand the spawning period and population structure of the black jewfish.

The research also confirmed that black jewfish populations on the east coast were in a healthy state with an estimated average of 79% overall biomass. Following this good news, Fisheries Queensland is increasing the total allowable catch for black jewfish from early 2023, and recreational fishers will now be able to fish throughout the year. Keep an eye out for future consultation on additional management changes such as the implementation of a seasonal closure to align with the spawning season. For more information – download the QLD Fishing 2.0 app

Have you got your SIPS guides?

W o fi

Five new Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme Trail Guides have been developed covering Central Queensland, North Queensland, Wide Bay Burnett, South East Queensland and the Murray Darling Basin.

Fre fav

Fisheries Queensland worked with Freshwater Fishing and Stocking Association of Queensland Inc. and local stocking groups to develop these new guides to help anglers traveling around Queensland.

Imp frus cat into tem pla

Each guide contains maps, information about the SIPS impoundments and what makes each dam unique. Queensland has more than 60 dams and weirs currently under the scheme — stocked with native fish specifically for recreational fishing. The scheme provides a sustainable fishing option that reduces the fishing pressure on wild fish stocks. To get your copy contact your local stocking group.

Download the free ‘Qld Fishing 2.0’ app from the App Store or Google Play DAF1856 12/2022

Page 22 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 1856 Bush n Beach January 2023.indd 2

LEFT

www.bnbfishing.com. au 5/12/2022 2:57 pm

How do you count the fish in the ocean? Have you ever wondered where catch or size limits come from? Decisions like these are informed by stock assessments.

Stock assessments are models of the fish population that combine our understanding of ecology, biology, environment, and fishing behaviours, to give an indication of the health of fish stocks. These assessments are done by fisheries scientists who have skills in mathematical modelling, biological research, statistical analysis and computer science. For more than 20 years stock assessment scientists at Fisheries Queensland have helped determine if a fish stock is sustainably fished, overfished or somewhere in between.

For example, over time, fishing boats and gear have improved. These might make the catch rates go up — but that doesn’t always mean there are more fish in the ocean! We also include data about harvest history, biological information and abundance patterns to ensure we are getting a full understanding of the fishery. Given we can’t dive down and count every single fish, stock assessments are a powerful tool to provide insight into the status of fish stocks and help us sustainably manage fisheries for future generations. More information go to daf.qld.gov.au and search for ‘stock assessment program’.

Freshwater fishing is one of Ursula’s favourite types of recreational fishing. Impoundment Barramundi are the most frustrating yet most rewarding fish to catch. Many hours and many casts go into working these fish out — with water temperatures and wind directions all playing a vital role.

Barramundi CLOSED East coast Qld 1 November 2022 to 31 January 2023 Gulf of Carpentaria 7 October 2022 to 31 January 2023

Spanish mackerel CLOSED East coast south of latitude 22˚S 1 February 2023 to 21 February 2023 1 March 2023 to 21 March 2023 For more info go to the Qld Fishing 2.0 app

Stock assessments are hungry for data, and the more data we can feed them, the better outcomes they produce. We look at catch rates — the most commonly used indication of fish numbers — and interpret these to understand changes in fish abundance.

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What you need to know

Ursula is one of the 10 Leaders of Women in Recreational Fishing Network Queensland. The network encourages women to participate in recreational fishing. They share knowledge, stories, tips, and promote events to develop female role models within the recreational fishing community. Search Facebook for ‘Women in Recreational Fishing Network Qld’ to join the group.

Women in recreational fishing network

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RIGHT

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 5/12/2022 2:57 23 pm

An 87cm knobby snapper taken on 15lb monofilament line in 35m of water using the author’s techniques.

Jigging with Catch Fishing Tackle is a very productive method for hooking snapper throughout the year.

Summertime snapper pointers

T Releasing big snapper and seeing them swim away is very rewarding.

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O kick off, I’d like to wish a happy new year to everyone. The past couple of years of writing and sharing what I know about fishing, boating and going to new places has been very enjoyable – I hope you’ve been able to get something out of it. It looks as though 2023 will be an awesome year, with all the new tackle on the market, and here’s hoping the big red-suited person brought you something nice. With any luck, many of you are enjoying a summer holiday and thinking about your plans for your next fishing adventure. The warm months are generally great for chasing all the well-known summer species, such as marlin, mackerel and mangrove jack, but did you know that snapper can also be targeted at this time with outstanding results?

Gold Coast by BEN SMITH

Actually, some of my biggest snapper catches have been landed between November through to January. In this article I hope to pass on a few pointers to help you land that fish of your dreams. Let’s talk about tackle preparation first, starting with the hooks and working our way up. My preference when float-lining for summer snapper is Gamakatsu SL 12S 6/0 hooks because they are sticky sharp and that’s very important. I gang them two-up with a swivel of about size 3-4 in the eye of the top hook to allow the bait to spin a bit and not cause the line to twist. On to that, I’ll run a luminescent egg sinker of a size appropriate to the depth of water, the current and wind con-

dition I need to fish. That’s tied directly to monofilament line of anything between 1530lb, so the sinker can run freely up the line. The reel you choose should be able to hold about 300m of the line class you wish to fish. As an example, if I’m fishing 15lb, I’ll go with a Shimano Tekota 500HGA, but if I go up to 30lb, I’ll use something along the lines of a Daiwa Saltist LW40HA. Both reels are overhead level-wind star drags and handle mono line very well. An overhead reel is far more appropriate to use in a float-lining situation because you can leave the reel in free spool and simply thumb the line to control the speed of the decent. * continued P26

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 25

The author zoomed the split screen in on the bottom to better interpret the soundings. Snapper 10-12m off the bottom with plenty of baitfish under them.

Summertime snapper pointers * from P24

Great eating-sized snapper are available year-round when fished correctly.

In addition, you will be able to feel the line under your thumb as a fish takes it and the spool speeds up as it takes the bait. The principal is that you can thumb the spool to put resistance on the line to set the hook in the fish, that way if the fish decides

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to drop the bait, you can instantly take your thumb pressure off to allow it to come back for a second bite at the cherry. Once you feel the fish is hooked, you pop it into gear and wind up the stretch in the mono and fight the fish in. As I’ve said in previous articles, a good 7’7’6” rod in the correct line class is important. Don’t worry too much about line class because you can easily fish 15lb line in 6585m of water and land some big fish. The fish in the photos accompanying this article were all caught on 15lb gear, but I’ll go up to 30lb gear if kingfish are around, or if the fish are close to the bottom and there’s a chance the line will be touching the reef. Next is putting yourself on the fish. Generally, it’s a good idea to be on location pre-dawn or late afternoon as these are prime feeding times for fish. Alternatively, try following the bite times, as I do.

You can use a bite time app on your phone, or you can follow the moon phases to calculate when the fish will come on the bite. The question to ask is not where the fish were biting, but when. Finding the fish by sounding the area is probably the next priority. Go slow so your sounder can get its ping rate up and that way, any fish under the boat can be seen clearly, as shown in the screenshot of my sounder. Admittedly, I am using a 1kW transducer, but in water up to 50 fathoms, most good sounders will draw good fish up if you pull the boat back to idle speed and take it slow. Seeing the fish and being there at the right time are both crucial to successful fishing, not only for quality fish but for quantity also. Watch your plotter to work out the drift and try to position your boat so that your bait passes through the sweet spot where the big ones are hanging. * continued P27

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Summertime snapper * from P26

Remember, it’s not a race to the bottom – you want your bait to suspend in the zone where the fish are feeding for as long as possible. In the screenshot of the sounder, they are in fact 10-12m up from the bottom, so if your bait is on the sea floor, it’s not going to get the bite. You can also see that I’ve zoomed the split screen in on the bottom so I can better interpret the soundings. These are key points to good fishing. Another tip is to present your bait neatly. Check to see that the point of the hook is exposed, and the bait is the correct way around. Usually, how the fish would swim naturally is how you want to present your bait and, once you’re ready to drop, lay it in the water to see if it swims straight or if it spins. If it doesn’t look right, fix it. If you do get a beauty, take a few pics and then decide to release it, that’s great. Breeding stocks are crucial for overall sustainability and, while there are some ideas going around that snapper could die from

barotrauma, there’s also a good chance that the fish will survive – particularly if you have handled it gently, released the air from its swim bladder and have it back into the water quickly, with the fish swimming upright as it descends. I hope to have more information and research data on released snapper over the coming months – it will be interesting to find out what actually happens. All of these tips will help you have a successful fishing mission for reds this summer and knowing they’re a year-round species on the Gold Coast makes the season even more attractive. Finally, having the best gear you can afford is a good idea too – not only because it increases your chances of landing a beast but because it feels so good to buy new fishing gear! Spoken like a true fisho. Anyway, have the best new year ever and, if you’re keen to see how I go about fishing for snapper, check out some of the content on my YouTube channel, ‘Ship Faced Fishermen’. Until next month, happy fishing.

by MELISSA FROHLOFF

Fijian fish salad

Ingredients

Method

• 900g saddletail snapper, 1. Cut fish into small chunks. skin off In a bowl, mix through • 3/4 cup lime juice the lime juice to marinate. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours • 200ml coconut cream stirring occasionally, until • 200g gold tomatoes, fish turns opaque. sliced in half • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped • 1 spring onion, finely chopped • 125g tiny cucumbers, sliced • 1 capsicum, sliced • Cheeks of 1 mango, diced

2. Add coconut cream, tomatoes, red and spring onion, cucumber, capsicum, mango, ginger and kaffir lime leaves and toss to combine. Refrigerate for another hour. 3. Serve with lime wedges and chilli.

• 2 tsp freshly grated ginger • 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely sliced • 1 red chilli, finely chopped • 1 lime The author prefers the Gamakatsu SL 12S rig with luminescent egg sinker for summertime snapper. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Prep time: 15 min | Cook time: 4 hours | Serves: 4-6 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 27

The author caught and released a 64cm flathead on light tackle and a small soft plastic in shallow water.

Richard did very well to boat this impressive 63cm mangrove jack on light line while on a Tweed River charter with Brad Smith.

Cracking lure colour codes

Emile caught a 65cm flathead on a 6th Sense Divine soft plastic on a wading trip with the author.

Ollie caught his first ever flathead on a charter with the author, this one measured 51cm. Page 28 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

’DAY everyone, and happy new year to all. I hope you all had time to relax with loved ones and go fishing over the festive period. While fishing is meant to be enjoyable, regularly catching fish makes it even more fun. One of the main things I pay attention to as a guide is lure colour. You will hear many theories about what works and why but what matters most are proven colours that consistently tempt fish to strike a lure. Most estuaries in Australia work the same, the water colour varies from crystal clear to filthy dirty. Then there is the time of day, sunny to cloudy conditions and in between. You’ll notice some goto colours I use on my charters in the photos accompanying this article. Here is a basic guide to what works well and when. One important thing I notice is colour contrasts on lures – something that will get the

Broadwater Guide by CLINT ANSELL

attention of a fish – such as red eyes, orange gills and bellies, darker back, glitter, ultra-violet specks, brighter colours. Two or more of these features and you have a fish attracting device. A prime example is one of my all-time favourite lures, the Eco-

gear ZX40 in colour 440. This is a lure that catches fish in most water conditions – the ultimate allrounder. You can see in the picture how roughed up one of mine is after catching many fish. You will also notice

* continued P29

Jess with a 60cm flathead that fell for a Z-Man ST GrubZ plastic in Opening Night colour.

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Cracking lure colour codes * from P28

the contrasts – darker olive back, gold flecks, lighter mid-section, orange belly, red and black eyes, brown tassels and it is UV reactive. The chances are that something on this lure will get the attention of fish, yet there is nothing too drastic on it. I have caught over 30 species of fish on it, including flathead up to 88cm, mulloway, whiting, bream, tuskfish, giant trevally and so many more. If you look around, you can find various similar lures on the market, in many brands, in blades, vibes, soft plastics and hard-body versions. Ecogear ZX40 colour 440 Fishing is not an exact science and occasionally, on a particular day, things work that shouldn’t work and vice versa. Sometimes colours such as charteuse work well when nothing else does. Let’s run through some options, starting with sunny and glassy conditions. These types of days are often the hardest because the fish can be very wary and not easily fooled. If this is the case, good choices are natural and transparent-coloured lures. A prime example is Opening Night in the Z-Man range. This colour works well in most conditions apart from darker sky or dirtier water. Another go-to for me in Z-Man plastics is Houdini colour, as www.bnbfishing.com.au

is Midnight Oil and Blood Oil. These and similar colours work well in various conditions. If you find they are not working, it’s time to mix it up and experiment. Try more solid, darker and flashy colours. In recent weeks, I have enjoyed cracking the colour code on the shallow flats of the Gold Coast Broadwater when chasing dusky flathead. There are days when no bites are happening, and you start to think the fish aren’t there. Change the lure colours and bang, the action begins and multiple flathead are hooked in a short period. A big advantage of using soft plastic lures is that you can quickly change colours on and off jig heads. Another thing to remember is that conditions change while you are fishing. The water can clear up or get dirtier if the tide runs in or out, the sky can go from sunny to partly cloudy or cloudy, or clear up from cloudy. It is during these times that adjustment is needed to achieve success. Here’s a summary of some of my favourites. For sunny and calm to partly cloudy weather and clear to medium visibility water: • Z-Man 3” MinnowZ, Z-Man 2.5” ST GrubZ and Z-Man 2.5” PrawnZ in Opening Night, Beer Run, Houdini, Blood Oil, Midnight Oil, Slam Shady, Pearl, Pinfish, Bad Shad, Green Lantern. • Ecogear Balt 3.5” in pearl 010 and silver 115. • 6th Sense Divine Swimbait 2.7” and 3.2”

soft plastics in Pro Shad, Ghost Ice Minnow and Clearwater Rose. For cloudy and gloomy skies or dirty water: • Z-Man soft plastics in Golden Boy, Gold Rush, Calico Candy, Watermelon Red and Sexy Penny. • Ecogear Balt 3.5” in 171, 365, 403. • 6th Sense Divine Swimbait soft plastics in Mexican Spice. Wild card fluoro colours include Z-Man soft plastics in Glow Chartreuse, Nuked Chicken, Electric Chicken and Pink Glow. A happy new year to all readers and may your fishing dreams come true this year! To book a charter with myself or Brad, or if you have any fishing related questions, visit goldcoastrivercharters. com, SMS 0432 990 302 or email fishing withclint@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook – Brad Smith Fishing Charters.

The author’s Ecogear ZX40 in colour 440.

Regular charter client Adrian landed a horse of a whiting that measured 44cm.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 31

Keira was sun smart while fishing.

A nice jewfish taken recently from a deep reef.

Solid boat-christening session A FTER a few months, I have finally been able to get a few offshore trips under my belt. I bought a new boat, or rather, I had one built by Mick Owens at North East Fabrications. To date, I’ve done three trips in it, and to say I’m happy with my new rig would be an understatement. On the first trip, Keira came to help me christen the boat. We headed north into a horrible joggle left over from the strong northerly wind the night before and I was

Tweed to Byron Bay by GAVIN DOBSON

pleased with the ride, considering how terrible the conditions were. Keira was first up with a fish, and I wondered what the first species to come over the gunwales of the new rig would be. There were two – a nice parrotfish on the top hook and a sergeant baker on the bottom. I’m glad the parrot came first – and, while I guess it didn’t matter, it was an illogical nicety to have a good fish first. These two fish started

what was to be a fairly good day. We caught mostly parrot – also known as venus tuskfish – and teraglin, with a few other suspects thrown in for good measure. Squire were scarce and we managed only half a dozen, though a few pearl and moses perch came over the side. I struck on a bite and the rod kicked and bucked with a big fish. I called it for a jewfish, but a few savage runs

A decent chopper caught when chasing spotted mackerel on the close reefs. Page 32 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

had me thinking it may have been a kingfish, even though it wasn’t the spot for them. I should have stayed with my original call because a beautiful slab of silver came over the side minutes later. As the day went on, the morning’s southwesterly dropped out and was replaced with the expected northeasterly, so at about lunchtime, we headed home with a nice feed onboard. A couple of days later, I headed out to the local – mostly to give the boat another run, though I had also heard stories of a few spotted mackerel coming in. The water had been 22C, however on this particular morning, my sounder told me it was 19.7C, which is exactly what you don’t want to see when you have mackerel in mind. It was also an unappealing green colour, so I gave up on the idea of mackerel and tried for a snapper or jew – with no luck I might add. I pulled the anchor to head for home when a friend called and asked me how I was going. My negative mood changed a bit after he told me he was getting

into a few spotties on stickbaits. I raced over and borrowed a spinner off him, and luckily I managed to get a few before they went off the bite. I put out a skirted lure and scored one more spotty by randomly trolling, then went home with a nice feed instead of a doughnut. It was amazing because I have never caught spotted mackerel in water that cold before. I got home and processed the fish, kicking myself for not taking a few photos. “Oh well, a good excuse to go again tomorrow,” I thought. Well, you know how it goes... of course I couldn’t get a bite to save myself. I threw and trolled everything I had and, while I saw a half a dozen caught, there weren’t many around and I ended up with zero. Zero spotties that is. A couple of goodsized tailor jumped on the spinners and provided a great feed – I love a fresh bit of chopper. I missed out on getting a mackerel photo * continued P34

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 33

Snapper can still be caught out wide.

The warm weather recently fired bass up.

Warm weather equates to fierce fishing

ELLO all and welcome to this month’s Bush ‘n

Beach. Well, 2023 is upon us and I do hope you all had a safe and happy Christmas and new year period with those who are nearest and dearest to you. On a personal note, I am looking forward to getting in to 2023. Last year would have to go down as one of the worst years of my life – having both my house and shop flooded

Ballina Bait & Tackle by BRETT HYDE

in March, very limited opportunities to do any fishing at all due to the continuous wet and rough conditions and with the ongoing rebuilding process. I am certainly glad to see the end of 2022 and am optimistic of a brighter and better year to come. I would also like to take a quick moment

to thank my amazing family and, in particular, my partner and rock Amber, with whom I have spent many days and nights crying, laughing and occasionally arguing during the crazy post flooding and rebuilding rollercoaster. We anticipate our home will be finished around Easter, which will be more than 12

months since it was destroyed. We were very fortunate to have some fantastic local trades work tirelessly to complete the work, and we are so appreciative of this. The Northern Rivers region as a whole is still a mess after the devastation from earlier in 2022, but there are many businesses up and running that could use your support, so if you’re thinking about a holiday or even a weekend getaway, come and

say hi – we would love to see you in town enjoying our wonderful piece of paradise. As far as fishing goes, given the reasonably dry weather, the river has had a chance to clean up to some degree over the past month. As we all know, it won’t take much rain for the brown discoloured water to return but for now, plenty of us are enjoying the clearer conditions. Currently, bream

* continued P35

Solid boat-christening session * from P32

Hope you’ve been storing bait for the upcoming mackerel season. Page 34 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

for this article, but I did remember to get the camera out and try for a selfie with the tailor. I will do a review of my boat in a future edition. Offshore will be all about pelagic species, such as mackerel in close and mahi mahi and wahoo out wider. So far, mahi have been going off, with some great sized spec-

imens on the 50-fathom line coming off trap floats. In the river, try whiting, flathead and crabs or, for a bit more sport, mangrove jack, trevally and school jew, which have been plentiful. Remember to support our local shops. In Br unswick Heads, call in to see Lamby and the team at Brunz Beach Bait and Tackle for gear and fresh bait, includ-

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take home any flathead over 70cm. The warm weather also signalled the firing up of mangrove jack and a few mud crabs moving around too. The jacks have main-

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plastics along the rock walls with either a curl tail grub or minnow imitation. The warmer weather has pushed some flathead into deeper water, particularly during the heat of the day. This has meant that blades, vibes and soft plastics with a paddle tail have all been quite effective options for the lure brigade. It may be worth throwing or trolling some hard-body lures around in 1-2m of water early in the morning because occasionally flathead will turn up in shallower water, until it starts to get very hot. If you prefer to use bait to chase larger models, some live herring will be the best bet and, if not, stick

seem to be spread out from the ferry to the broadwater. As is typically the case at this time of year, most of the fish are concentrated along the rock walls, with only a few patrolling the sand flats on a rising tide. Bait such as prawns and mullet have had the best success, though the trick will be to get the sinker choice correct, so that your bait are drifting along the rock walls and not sinking like stones. If you prefer to throw a lure at them, it will be worth throwing a few surface lures across the sand flats during the first few hours of a falling tide or try some lightly weighted soft

* from P34

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 35

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

Fierce fishing fires up * from P35

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the next month or so. While the warm conditions have encouraged crabs to start moving around, we haven’t seen large numbers of them just yet, but a few exceptionally large crabs have been caught already, so fingers crossed some more of their cousins show up soon. Both the creeks and main river have proven productive during a run-in tide, but remember to have the correct details on your floats when you head out because NSW Fisheries are checking on this type of thing during the holiday season. Offshore, the warm ocean currents are marching south, and we’ve had a few captures of mahi mahi and marlin off Ballina already. The mahi mahi have been a little inconsistent around the fish aggregating device at the time of writing, but that should improve over the next few weeks. Most of the fish landed were happy to take live bait, so make sure you stop on one of the close reefs and grab a few before heading out wider. Usually, fish will become more aggressive as summer goes along, so I’d pack a few skirted lures still and have a troll on the way out or home because some of the larger fish may be cruising well away from the FAD and more inclined to take a liking to your lures. It may also be worth having a slow troll in

an attempt to find a current line or temperature change, as these types of areas can often hold some of the better quality fish too. The warmer water has also pushed most of the snapper out onto the 32-fathom line. This time of year can be difficult due to the extra current, so jigs in the 120-250g range will be required, or a 2oz jig head with a soft plastic, if you want to try some lures out there. Some good numbers of kingfish have also been taking jigs and live bait out on the 48s. Though the issue was that kingfish were beating pearl perch to the bait and lures, with most of the kingfish being fairly small. It may pay to try some larger jigs, which might deter the smaller fish, plus, slow your jigging speed down to give the larger models more time to muscle in on the jigs, before the little fish beat them to the punch. Silver, pink or blue jigs have all been popular lately, however when you’re out, a gold or red may be worth a try on overcast days. There were also reports of mackerel at Tweed Heads and Brunswick Heads – it won’t be long now before they show up on our doorstep, so now is a great time to dust off the rigs and lures in preparation for the toothy brigade. Well, that’s about all from me for this month, until next time – tight lines!

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 37

A 76cm school jewfish engulfed a 6” Storm WildEye Swim Shad soft plastic on the Iluka breakwall.

Rebekah Ellis with a micro jewfish taken at the local boat ramp.

Hot nighttime jewfish and flathead action

S I typed the first article of 2023, I tried to remember exactly where 2022 went. For some reason, I can only recall floods, low pressure systems, gale and storm-force winds, a few more floods and further miserable weather. However, to be begrudgingly fair, we did have a couple of weeks of sunshine during that time.

Just Jew by TYE PORTER

While the Bureau of Meteorology reckons the current La Niña phase will be over early this year, it is worth noting that Queensland and the Northern Rivers area of northern NSW do tend to be hammered by cyclones and east coast lows – even when the

Mischa and Rebekah and a nice feed of flathead taken at the local boat ramp on soft plastic lures. Page 38 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

rest of the country is in drought – so it will indeed be interesting to see how the first five or six months of this year play out. Here at Iluka, excellent catches of school jewfish around the 6-10kg mark have been taken from the breakwall on soft plastic lures, particularly during the low tide period. They’ve been so thick that even I waddled out to the wall one night for the first time in almost two years, slow winding my 6” Storm WildEye Swim Shad and, on my very first cast, a 76cm schoolie engulfed my lure. I then waddled my way back to the car with a nice feed. Mischa does the same because I often take him out in my car and wait for him to have a fish. Though, most nights he too hooks up first cast, with the upshot being that it takes us longer to drive there and back than it does to catch a fish.

I suppose it is a problem that most people wouldn’t complain about, but I can because I’m a cranky old fisho. Other anglers have been using live bait such as poddy mullet and yellowtail over the high tide for a better class of fish, though all that live bait stuff is too much effort for me these days, so I stick to lures. In recent weeks, the river was lousy, with large shoals of white pillies and herring, so it’s no wonder the jewfish have been around in good numbers. One of my spies over at Yamba tells me that similar good fishing has been experienced over on their wall too. Inside the mighty Clarence River, flathead and good whiting are a dime a dozen, with anglers enjoying decent fishing from all the well-known locations. Fingers are crossed that no more dirty water comes downstream and ruins this run of fish. Quite often, late at night, when there’s nothing worth watching on the television, I’ll go

down to the local boat ramp with Mischa and Rebekah, while they have a fish for flathead using 3-4” soft plastic lures. While they nearly always manage to get one or two keepers, one night recently they came across a nest of pan-sized flathead, with Rebekah putting five fish on the bank before Mischa had time to rig up. They ended up landing 17 fish in under an hour that night, taking home nine legal flatties, which was awesome fishing to say the least, though it does go to show that you don’t need a boat to get a feed. Rebekah even managed to catch a micro jewfish from the boat ramp when fishing for flathead and, while it’s great to see these little tackers about, it blew a hole in her jewfish average-size records. Until that moment, she had landed around 40 jew, with not one fish being under 10kg – so the little micro fish soon put an end to that impressive run.

* continued P39

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Hot nighttime flatty action * from P38

On the rare occasion the swell made it possible to fish the headlands safely, a handful of school jew and turrum were taken by anglers spinning hard-bodied minnow lures. The open beaches copped a real flogging from the big swells, which in turn tended to flatten the beaches and fill any half decent gutters and holes. However, as with the headlands, if lucky enough to find a bit of decent water, a feed of flathead, whiting and swallowtail dart was available. On the subject of flat beaches, if you know anyone who intends visiting the area to do burnouts and doughnuts up along the beach at Shark

Bay, I would advise them against it. Locals have had a gut full of this hooning and have armed themselves with cameras to record these idiots. They are then forwarding the evidence to the NSW Police, who are dealing with the offenders through the courts under the current NSW hoon legislation. On a brighter note, as I say each year, the January Australia Day long weekend officially sees the start of the northern NSW land-based fishing, where anglers focus on chasing spanish mackerel and longtail tuna, with the South Wall at Ballina being the first site to fire for mackerel. Early February sees the action move slowly

south to the headlands at Evans Head, and by March, things are normally getting into full swing here at Iluka. Traditionally, our landbased season runs to the end of May, so all things being equal, you have a good window for a chance of landing one of your dream pelagic species. As we go to print, spotted mackerel are being boated in the warm shallow water off Woody Head, so the countdown is well and truly on for the arrival of their much bigger spanish cousins. All in all, as long as the rain stays away, 2023 should kick off with plenty of fishing fun, so get out there and get among them. Until next month, safe fishing.

Rebekah with a typical pan-sized flathead found at night using lures.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 39

Changing things up – added scent and found a flathead.

It only takes one fish to turn a doughnut day around.

Doughnut management

Find the bait and find the fish, an early morning edge bite of bream.

Each new day brings new opportunities and a chance to bounce back from a doughnut session.

Page 40 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

OW, this might be an unusual topic to write about, but how do you recover from a session that produced nothing but a dreaded doughnut? I guess first off, you need to set yourself some guidelines as to what is considered a doughnut. Is it no fish caught at all or is it not nailing your intended target species with by-catch still coming in? For me, I’m a bit of an opportunistic angler, so more often than not I’ll have a rough plan to target a particular species, such as a flathead on an edge bite. However, if I head out and can’t find a flathead to save my life though instead find a school of hungry trevally that are happy to smash my plastics, I count this as a win and therefore not a doughnut session. For me, to have an absolute doughnut session means zero fish in the boat. On the other hand, for people who are dedicated to catching a particular species such as bream, bass or mulloway, not catching their chosen species and get-

Pro Staff Pointers by SEAN BEKKERS

ting a bucket load of other fish might still be considered a doughnut session. So, the question is, what do you define a doughnut session as? Some factors that can influence how good a session is going to be include elements such as location, tide, moon phase, weather condition and time of year, and many of these factors can make or break your session. Most anglers will consider all of these factors and more – usually researching all the tried and proven methods and techniques in order to give themselves the best chance of success. Avoiding the doughnut When I’m out on a session that is likely to result in a zero fish tally, I am constantly looking for factors that will turn my trip around. These include things such as identifying where the bait is holding, changing my presentation, varying my location and occasionally, a

‘Hail Mary’ may even be called upon to try and scratch up a fish. Finding the bait Instead of flogging dead ground only because I found fish there on previous trips, I will actively look for likely areas that are holding bait. Weed edges, drop-offs, mangrove areas and a favourite of mine… drains. These are all likely places for me to start searching for bait and ultimately the bigger fish. Selecting an area is going to be driven by where your intended target species are likely to be. As an example, flathead prefer all the aforementioned areas, though if I’m looking for jewfish and it’s the right time of year, I might start by using my sounder to find deeper structure such as a rock bar that is holding baitfish. Change presentation Once I’ve found the fish, getting them to bite * continued P42

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 41

Doughnut management * from P40

The Fish Inc Flanker sinking stickbait has been a session changer on many occasions.

Back into the action on the flathead after finding a bank with plenty of bait.

The sounder is handy when locating bait and fish. Page 42 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

is the next challenge. If they don’t want to play ball straight away, I will start cycling through my presentations. I will often rotate through different styles and sizes of my Z-Man plastics and perhaps change from a fish pattern to a curl tail GrubZ or a prawn style. Things to consider when changing your soft plastics are size and colour. As many fishing articles will advise, matching the hatch is often the key to being successful. Look for clues as to what bait is holding. If it’s 3” hardyhead, then a Z-Man 3” MinnowZ might be the go. If there are big runs of freshwater with a lot of prawns and crabs being flushed around, then swapping to something similar to a Z-Man EZ ShrimpZ could definitely turn your session around. While we are on the topic of plastics, don’t forget to try different jig head weights and styles. Changing from a standard TT HeadlockZ HD jig head to a painted jig head with eyes – such as a TT DemonZ or Big EyeZ – might tempt that big fish to bite. Obviously, there are a lot of different presentations out there, including hard-bodies, plastics, live and dead bait. No matter what presentation you are using, remember to take cues from the bait that is around you and this will often improve your chances of attracting a bite. Location Ever heard people say, “everything looks good?”

Occasionally, you’re on the water and wherever you look deserves a cast… and sometimes this pays off and you catch fish. More often though, you need to focus on finding the spots that are holding bait and fish. A rough rule of thumb for me is if the tide is running up to high, the bait is going to be pushing up with the tide. So I’ll focus on where the bait is going to be holding and pushing in as the tide comes in, such as a mangrove edge. Likewise, when the tide begins to drop, I’ll focus on areas where the bait is going to be holding as the water recedes, such as drains and structure in deeper water. Bouncing back from the doughnut This rings true for me lately – the dreaded doughnut. A few of my sessions were purely experimental and resulted in doughnuts, however the others hurt a little because I couldn’t get it together at all. Following a recent flathead session that didn’t work out, I sat back and had a think about what went wrong. I managed to find areas that were holding heaps of bait and the bigger fish were there, however they wouldn’t commit to a good strike – choosing rather to tail grab the plastic. Ultimately, they showed little interest – probably because they were full. It was a late afternoon session, so looking back I could have simply changed from an afternoon to an early morning session.

I could also have looked at changing my presentations a little more – sending out a well-presented Z-Man 2.5” TRD CrawZ or 2.75” TRD BugZ rigged on a TT NedlockZ jig head. I could have slowed this down and held that presentation right in front of the fish – basically annoying them into biting. So, with a little reflection on what didn’t work, fingers crossed I’ll be back in the game next session. At some stage, the inevitable doughnut session is going to occur and for anglers who froth on fishing and go out day after day regardless of how well they go, scoring a doughnut session isn’t such a bad thing. We need to take it as an opportunity to learn and think about how to change the approach for the next time. For some of us though, having a doughnut session can be a little soul destroying… limited time, all that effort and with nothing to show for it. But don’t worry about it – try to use it as a learning opportunity. Occasionally, the worst sessions can teach you the most and allow time to experiment and explore new water. Ask friends how they went, what techniques they used, and don’t forget to check out all the free information online, including YouTube videos, articles, forums and such. With a bit of luck and a few plans up your sleeve, you’ll be nailing fish on the next trip. Screaming drags!

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East coast anglers can welcome in 2023 by fishing for more black jewfish.

New year’s gift for black jewfish fishos

NGLERS on the east coast of Australia can welcome in 2023 by fishing for more black jewfish, after detailed research found that stock of the favourite species was in a healthy state. Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said a new black jewfish stock assessment, informed by a three-year research project on the species, showed the stock level at a median estimate of 79 percent, well above the target reference point of 60 percent of unfished biomass. “The healthy state of the east coast fishery

is terrific news, which has allowed the inshore fishery working group to recommend relaxing the interim management measures introduced in 2019 to protect the species from over-fishing,” Mr Furner said. “From January 1 2023, the total allowable catch for commercial fishers will increase to 54 tonnes and recreational fishers will now be able to fish throughout the year. “The Queensland Government will also consult with fishery stakeholders on additional management changes, such as the implementation of a seasonal spawning closure to align with the identified spawning season.”

Page 48 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Mr Furner said the research project, funded by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, provided crucial information to help protect the sustainability of black jewfish. “Department of Agriculture and Fisheries scientists worked closely with commercial, recreational, indigenous and charter fishers to collect samples and build on their existing knowledge of black jewfish,” Mr Furner said. “Key findings of the research showed that spawning happens throughout Central Queensland waters from November to February each year, females produce on

average around 4.5 million eggs each spawning season and a large proportion of old fish are still present within the population. “This crucial data will allow the longterm sustainable management of black jewfish to the benefit of all stakeholders in the fishery.” Mr Furner said in May 2019, the Queensland Government introduced the interim management measures for black jewfish to address escalating catches and black marketing of the species due to a rise in market demand for their swim bladders. “Our responsible approach to managing the fishery ensured

it did not become depleted during the time required to understand the status of the stock,” he said. “Subsequently, the combined response to the change in harvest and scientific research has underlined the value of a science-based management approach. “Maintaining healthy stocks is a cornerstone of our sustainable fisheries strategy, so we continue to have Queensland seafood on our tables, and to protect and sustain thousands of jobs in both the commercial and recreational sectors.” The stock assessment is available on the DAF website at daf. qld.gov.au

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 49

The new Giant 140-amp lithium batteries cost $1400 all up.

The author at the Emu Mountain lookout.

Weather dampens getaways

ELL, what can we expect for the rest of

The outboard bracket on the back of the Jayco Wind Up.

Ian worked on his 2005 Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier.

Page 50 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

summer? I’m not sure – hopefully not too much more rain! Just enough to keep our tanks full would be good and from a fishing perspective, a little minor flooding to keep the close-in reef fishing firing would be ideal, however, we don’t need any huge floods. I have not been fishing or crabbing in weeks – I checked the salt content in the Noosa River in late November, and because it was still drinkable, I didn’t bother putting my pots out. I was going to go over to Teewah Beach to chase whiting, but every time I thought about going, the conditions were not good. The days the weather was on point, I was doing something else… always the way. My family – wife Donna, our three adult sons and teenage daughter – and I were going to do a road trip south through NSW, Victoria, South Australia and the southwest corner of Western Australia, but unfortunately, the floods put a

Noosa to Fraser Coast by CRAIG TOMKINSON

damper on that. The poor people who have copped it this year. So, we might do a small trip along the NSW coast, but that’s up in the air too. If our ideas fall by the wayside, we’ll stay home and possibly go to K’gari for the last couple of weeks of the school holidays. I hope everyone stays safe and well and is able to travel their planned journeys. I’ve been working on gear for friends I met at Cape York – Ian and Gill Fry. Their 2005 Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier had a funny noise coming from the front end, so Ian rebuilt it and I supervised – Ian did a cracking job. It took a couple of days because they were sent the wrong CVs and axles the first time. Other than that, I’ve been doing maintenance on our Toyota 80 Series for our family trips and north-bound sorties. With 818,564km on the dial, I had to fit new

back control-arm bushes to the front of our four-wheel-drive, and it’s running great. I cheat a bit as I buy the neoprene ones and put them in a vice, then cut the bush in half across ways with a thin handsaw – that way I can press both halves in by hand and not with a 20-tonne press – makes it so much quicker. I also grind about 1.5mm off the steel bush that goes through them, so it tightens up that bit more, making up for the piece I cut out of the neoprene bush with the saw. Once fitted and while rotating the tyres, I noticed a tie rod end had too much movement, so I fitted a new one and repacked the bearings on the front wheels. As part of upgrading my gear, I sold my old AGM batteries and bought two Giant 140 amp lithiums to try – I’ll let you know how they go. I also bought an old alloy roof rack for $80 * continued P52

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 51

Jonathan Mallard with a nice 63cm flathead.

A bit of mangrove jack by-catch for the author, who took a decent blackspotted cod.

Tailor, flatties, jacks fire in TCB

G Marqus Chapman and a nice lure-caught mangrove jack.

The author with a 43cm mangrove jack taken on a Lucky Craft Pointer 78XD.

’DAY crew, I cannot believe it’s January 2023 and I’m writing the first fishing report for the year. Last year was a wild and quick ride for most people, and this was no different in the shop – where did the year go? On the fishing front, 2022 wasn’t the easiest year on the water. The weather didn’t let up for the first half and then we had to battle with the water quality in Tin Can Bay – it all added up to fairly tough fishing from the tinnie. But in saying that, the anglers who braved the weather, got out and thought outside the box were rewarded for their efforts. I must say that the fishing over the past couple of months was quite good and I’ve personally

Tin Can Bay by CHRIS RIPPON

had some cracker sessions in the local systems. Recently, we had a session where we boated 13 different species in one day, in one creek and all tossing lures. At one point, I had a double header of tailor on the Lucky Craft Pointer 78XD, then two very large mangrove jack came up from the depths and smashed the tailor on the rear hook, leaving me with one tailor and no jacks. You don’t see that sort of thing from sitting on the couch. It’s moments such as these that help make up for a couple of doughnut days, that’s for sure, and keep us coming back

time and again! So, what has been on the bite over the past few weeks? By all reports, jacks are starting to fire. We have several customers who are dedicated jack fishos – they’ve let us know that fish have been caught up to 50cm plus size recently. The majority of jacks have come from fishos fishing at night with a mixture of live and dead bait. During daylight hours however, lure fishing has been red hot, with the standout lure of choice on my boat being the faithful Lucky Craft Pointers 78XD. Normally, after a fish * continued P53

Weather dampens getaways * from P50

and am rebuilding it to suit the 3.7m Quintrex tinnie, which will go on it on top of the 80 Series. While I did make one from an old steel rack, I wanted to try the alloy to see if it’s lighter. I’m sure it will be and as a bonus, it won’t rust. Something else I’ve

been doing is working in my garden. With the price of fruit and vegetables, I’ve taken to growing a few things – potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkins, watermelons, lady finger, cavendish and blue java bananas, dragon fruit, passionfruit and pineapples – and am planting all the time. As we couldn’t go

Page 52 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

too far from home due to the weather, we did a few of the local walks on the Sunshine Coast, such as the Emu Mountain walk near Peregian. It’s a lovely walk with a great view of the coast. Until next month, be safe on the water and our roads over the break.

Howard Rippon and his first mangrove jack taken on lure, with a bit of help from his dad, the author.

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Tailor, flatties, jacks fire in TCB * from P52

or two in, the other angler on the boat will ask what you’re tossing and give me one! For the past few weeks, Chartreuse was the dominate colour and out-fished everything on the boat. From jack to flathead to the toadfish that seem to never go away – it’s no use if it isn’t chartreuse. There were loads of tailor in the system recently and they made for a bit of fun when the bite slowed. Look for faster moving water and, if it’s a bit cleaner, have a look on the edge side – there seem to be good schoolsized tailor patrolling the pressure points. Tailor don’t seem to be too fussy in that situation. We have caught them on hard-bodies, small metals and 3’’ plastics. If it’s in their face, they tend to eat whatever you put in front of them. Some cracker flathead were caught this last month too. The numbers of good

fish being captured is great to see. Lots of schools, with sizes of fish about 45cm – though common catches of fish in the 60cm and early 70cm range have also been reported. Chappo caught a 72cm flatty the other day on an 80mm crankbait, then backed it up with a 42cm jack on the very next cast. The fish don’t seem to be too fussy but for the 78-95cm sizes, lures have been the go for these bigger fish. If you want to get your hands on some of the hard-bodies we’ve been using, pop down to the shop and have a look at the range of crankbaits we carry. We know they work because we all use and catch fish on them. The newcomer to the lure wall is the Molix RT Fork Flex 4’’, and they are fast becoming a popular lure among the staff and any customers who have used them. Rigged on a 1/4oz 3/0 TT Lures HeadlockZ, they are a dynamite

The author was happy with a good-sized flathead.

Jonathan Mallard took a nice mangrove jack that fell to an Rapala X-Rap Magnum RH. www.bnbfishing.com.au

combo for catching almost anything and flathead love them too! Nice-sized grunter have been schooling up creeks lately and again the Molix RT Fork Flex 4’’ was a proven winner on this tasty fish, with small 75mm vibes also working well. Grunter love a well-presented squid bait as well. A 5/0 running ball rig with a nice fresh strip of squid will surely bag you a feed of javelin fish. With warmer weather, crabs have been getting about, and the back of the bay is a productive place to start. As always, use fresh bait for best results. Don’t forget, from now through to the end of January, if you buy any four of our crab pots from the shop, we will throw in enough bait to get you started – for free! Offshore has been producing, with anyone able to get over the Wide Bay Bar reporting good catches of snapper, pearl perch, tuskfish, red emperor, lipper, cod, hussar, dolphinfish and the occasional black marlin, which ate a 12oz lead. Well, that’s enough from me for now. Don’t forget, if you’re in the area, drop in, say hi and show us your latest catch – you may win a $100 store credit for doing so. I’ll take this opportunity to thank everyone who shopped with us in 2022 and for the support the local community has shown and continues to show us. From the whole Chandlery family, thank you. We hope you all had a very merry Christmas, a great New Year and that 2023 brings you loads of great fishing memories! The Chandlery Bait and Tackle for all your fishing and boating needs.

The author scored a 62cm flathead. The flathead came in quick succession in this session.

Marqus Chapman snared a cracker 72cm dusky flathead – caught, tagged and released.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 53

SCAN QR CODE

This marlin came in hot after multiple strikes on a cast lure. Jake and his mum with a memorable catch.

Mixing it up with marlin

A marlin at the end of a fight, hooked on a soft lure.

Shane took a grunter by spinning lures deep.

> Hervey Bay > Fraser Island > Sandy Strait

OW, another year done and dusted. Fishing has been fairly steady up here on the Fraser Coast – not fantastic, but good enough – and better than last year’s spring and summer. Plenty of tuna were around to target, though we did have a distinct lack of spotted mackerel again. The surface feeding fish were excellent sport, particularly the tuna. And they helped start and pad out the day. Say for instance, this year marlin were quite

Get into the best fishing action! Full and half day tours All levels of experience Experienced guide

www.fraserguidedfishing.com.au > 0427 230 261 Page 54 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Fraser Guided Fishing by TRI TON

good… these smaller species provide entertainment for the beginning of the tour or for mixing it up between slower periods when you’re chasing the bigger trophies. We’ve had a couple of seasons now where the massive schools of bait were smashed by predators – usually spotted mackerel or mack tuna. But mixed in with these were an abundant variety of species – La Niña maybe? I haven’t lived long enough to give a rounded comment, however this season has been much better than last summer! Tuna have been seen and caught, that’s the main thing. OK, so no rampaging bait balls and acres upon acres of cruising spotties – oh well, less distraction when chasing the main event. Yes, marlin were the main event. And, while I’d like to say I never blanked on tour, the strike rate was fairly good when we gave them a go.

It can be a monotonous affair, trolling and searching. I prefer to do it in a time frame when I think it will work best. Some clients insist on doing the entire tour, and if the fish are hot, it’s not a big deal – but most days they’re not. I never use bait. Yes, I know bait highly increases your chances. And I have tried skipping garfish in the past, and the scent drives the marlin nuts. It also increases the chances of a return strike if you drop the bite – I can only imagine what a switched livie would be result in – bait on a circle hook is deadly once you time the hook set. Lures test the ability of the angler to stay attached as the fish tries its best to throw the hook. Sight casting will test the angler even further – not only keeping the fish on, but actually gaining hook lodgement and then hook set. * continued P56

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 55

Tide Times AUSTRALIA EAST COAST WADDY LAT POINT LONG LAT24° 24°58ʼ 58ʼSS LONG153° 153°21ʼ 21ʼEE

2023 2023

AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIA, EAST EAST COAST COAST –– WADDY WADDY POINT POINT (FRASER (FRASER ISLAND) ISLAND) JANUARY JANUARY

Time Time

0427 0427 1013 1013 1548 SU SU 1548 2214 2214

0324 1.65 1.65 0324 0859 1.01 1.01 0859 1.48 1.48 MO 1426 MO 1426 2102 0.62 0.62 2102

0518 0518 1126 1126 1647 MO MO 1647 2255 2255

1.78 1.78 0.97 0.97 1.40 1.40 0.60 0.60

11 22

16 16

Times Timesand andHeights Heightsof ofHigh Highand andLow LowWaters Waters FEBRUARY MARCH FEBRUARY MARCH

mm 1.52 1.52 1.02 1.02 1.47 1.47 0.60 0.60

Time Time 0543 0543 1238 1238 1740 WE WE 1740 2311 2311

mm 1.88 1.88 0.96 0.96 1.27 1.27 0.74 0.74

Time Time 0447 0447 1138 1138 TH 1641 TH 1641 2232 2232

16 16

mm 1.90 1.90 0.85 0.85 1.30 1.30 0.66 0.66

Time Time 0413 0413 1142 1142 WE 1625 WE 1625 2150 2150

mm 1.80 1.80 1.02 1.02 1.23 1.23 0.92 0.92

Time Time 0312 0312 1023 1023 TH 1532 TH 1532 2053 2053

mm 1.85 1.85 0.90 0.90 1.29 1.29 0.84 0.84

Time TimeZone Zone–1000 –1000 APRIL APRIL

Time Time 0503 0503 1158 1158 SA 1751 SA 1751 2309 2309

Time mm Time 0454 1.82 1.82 0454 1136 0.81 0.81 1136 1.41 1.41 SU 1740 SU 1740 2316 0.84 0.84 2316

16 16 16 caught11a nice spotted Andrew 16 mackerel spinning lures deep.

Mixing it up with marlin

0421 0544 0422 1.67 1.67 0621 1.94 1.94 0540 2.05 2.05 0507 1.84 1.84 0421 1.96 1.96 0543 1.86 1.86 0544 17 22 0621 22 0507 22 0543 17 0422 1311 1216 1028 1228 1224 17 0540 1028 0.97 17 1120 0.97 1311 0.88 0.88 17 1228 0.71 17 1213 0.71 1216 0.94 0.94 17 1120 0.76 0.76 1224 0.72 0.72 17 1213 1536 1.40 1.40 1833 1.29 TU TH 1833 TH 1739 SU 1825 1.51 MO 1824 1.29 FR 1747 1747 1.36 1.36 1739 1.27 TU 1536 1.27 FR 1650 1.36 2154 2154 0.56 0.56

2354 2354 0.69 0.69

2336 2336 0.55 0.55

mm 2.03 2.03 0.59 0.59 1.60 1.60 0.69 0.69 2.05 2.05 0.51 0.51 1.73 1.73

2248 2248 0.87 0.87

FR 1650 1.36 2228 2228 0.75 0.75

SU 1825 1.51 2351 2351 0.73 0.73

MO 1824

SA 1751 1.47

MO 1856 1.61

TU 1246 0.46

0629 0550 1.89 1.89 0005 from heads are ex0600 1.89 1.89 0511 1.84 1.84 0658 2.00 2.00 0629 2.20 2.20 0550 1.89P54 0518 0518 2.07 2.07 0618Marlin 1.89 0005 0.60 0.60 33 0600 33 0658 33* 33 0618 18 0511 1222 1138 1341 1312 1242 1206 1247 0628 18 1222 0.91 0.91 18 1138 0.87 18 0.87 1341 0.80 0.80 18 1312 0.58 18 0.58 1242 0.86 0.86 18 1206 0.63 0.63 1247 0.63 0.63 18 0628 2.03 2.03 I have often spoken at tremely hard, with very 1742 1.35 1642 1.36 1916 1.34 1843 1.45 1821 1.34 1751 1.47 1856 1.61 1246 0.46 1742 1.35 1642 1.36 TU WE FR 1916 1.34 SA 1843 1.45 FR 1821 1.34 SA MO TU TU WE 2332 2332 0.58 0.58

2247 2247 0.50 0.50

0638 0638 1.98 1.98 1308 1308 0.85 0.85 1832 1.33 1.33 WE WE 1832

0557 2.01 2.01 0034 0.64 0.64 0030 0.44 0.44 19 44 0034 19 0557 1234 0732 0716 19 0030 1234 0.74 0.74 0732 2.04 2.04 19 0716 2.31 2.31 1743 1.36 1411 0.74 1353 0.48

0008 0008 0713 0713 1349 1349 TH TH 1916 1916

0.57 0.57 2.04 2.04 0.79 0.79 1.32 1.32

0118 0642 2.18 2.18 0111 0.60 0.60 0118 0.36 0.36 20 0642 5 0111 1324 0806 1324 0.62 0.62 0806 2.05 2.05 20 0802 0802 2.36 2.36 1840 1.40 1441 0.71 1433 0.43

0043 0043 0748 0748 1427 FR FR 1427 1956 1956

0.56 0.56 2.08 2.08 0.75 0.75 1.33 1.33

0206 0033 0.37 0.37 0147 0.57 0.57 0206 0.35 0.35 21 0033 6 0147 0729 0838 0729 2.33 2.33 0838 2.03 2.03 21 0848 0848 2.33 2.33 1514 0.43 1412 0.51 1509 0.69

0118 0118 0822 0822 1502 SA SA 1502 2031 2031

0.56 0.56 2.08 2.08 0.73 0.73 1.33 1.33

0252 0125 0.32 0.32 0222 0.57 0.57 0252 0.42 0.42 7 0222 22 0125 0818 0907 0818 2.41 2.41 0907 2.00 2.00 22 0933 0933 2.22 2.22 1458 0.44 1538 0.69 1554 0.48

44 5 6 7

0154 8 0154 0854 0854

TH TH 1743 1.36 2340 2340 0.44 0.44 FR FR 1840 1.40

SA SA 1412 0.51 1937 1937 1.46 1.46

SU SU 1458 0.44 2032 2032 1.52 1.52

0.57 0216 0.57 0216 2.07 0909 2.07 0909 1536 0.73 0.73 MO 1545 SU SU 1536 MO 1545 2101 2126 2101 1.34 1.34 2126 0229 0229 0927 0927 MO 1609 2131

0.33 0.33 2.42 2.42 0.43 0.43 1.55 1.55

SU SU 1353 0.48 1932 1932 1.56 1.56

SU SU 1441 0.71 MO MO 1433 0.43 2022 2020 2022 1.41 1.41 2020 1.65 1.65

MO MO 1509 0.69 2051 2051 1.44 1.44

TU TU 1514 0.43 2107 2107 1.71 1.71

TU TU 1538 0.69 WE WE 1554 0.48 2119 2154 2119 1.46 1.46 2154 1.74 1.74 0255 8 0255 0936 0936 1606

0.60 0.60 1.96 1.96 WE 0.68 WE 1606 0.68 2151 2151 1.49 1.49

0338 23 0338 1016 1016 1635

0.66 0.66 1.90 1.90 0.68 1.51

0428 24 0428 1056 1056 1714

0.75 1.82 FR 1705 0.67 2314 1.53

0.57 0.57 2.05 2.05 TH 0.56 TH 1635 0.56 2242 2242 1.75 1.75

0.59 0.59 2.03 2.03 0.73 1.35

0307 24 0307 0959 0959 1632

0328 0328 1007 1007 TH 1635 2230

10 0305 1000

0.62 1.98 1643 0.74 TU 2206 1.35

25 0356 1047 1718

10 0406 1041 1705

25 0528 1137 1755

11 0341 1035

26 0447 1134 1805

11 0450 1117 1739

26 0031 0650 1222

12 0423 1113

27 0010 0543 1219

12 0005 0547 1156

0513 13 1155

0120 28 0654 1306

0109 13 0702 1241

0048 14 0617

0243 29 0836 1401

0208 15 0734

0359 30 1025 1512

0.67 1.92 WE 1720 0.74 2249 1.35 0.75 1.84 1759 0.73 TH 2343 1.34

0.84 1.76 FR 1840 0.71

1.36 0.93 SA 1239 1.66 1925 0.68

1.41 1.00 SU 1328 1.57 2013 0.64

0.39 0.39 2.34 2.34 TU 1632 0.47 2219 1.55

SA SA 1411 0.74 1951 1951 1.38 1.38

0.52 2.20 WE 1718 0.55 2312 1.54 0.69 2.01 TH 1805 0.63 1.54 0.87 1.81 1219 FR 1852 0.70

1.55 1.02 SA 1306 1.62 1942 0.74

1.61 1.12 SU 1401 1.46 2037 0.77

1.70 1.11 MO 1512 1.34 2133 0.78

0.85 1.73 SA 1739 0.68

0.75 0.75 1.86 1.86 FR 1714 0.65 2333 1.74

0.93 1.66 SA 1755 0.74

1.73 1.08 SU 1222 1.49 1841 0.82

2336 2330 0.62 1904 2336 0.78 0.78on my 2330ideas 0.62 of 1904 1.86 1.86 length few soft membranes to 0627 1.94 0609 2.17 0030 0.64 0050 0.57 0627 1.94 0609 2.17 0030 0.64 0050 0.57 on the fish bite. allow hook set. 44strike 19 4 19 0709 1.96 1308 0.77 1245 0.53 0650 1.90 19 4 1308 0.77 1245 0.53 0650 1.90 19 0709 1.96 1318 1838 0.55 SA 1856 1.41 SU 1838 1.59 1.59 1311You’re 0.55 WE 1318 0.45 SA 1856 0.45 into SU TU 1311 WE driving If 1.41 you have issuesTU 1943 1927 1927 1.70 1.70 1943 1.97 1.97 with dropping fish, bone. 0017 0135 0017 0.69 0.69 0019 0.50 0.50 0106 0.60 0.60 0135 0.60 0.60 5marlin 20 0019 5 0106 0654 2.21 0721 1.89 0702 0747 1.87 0702 1.98 1.98will 0654 2.21 0721The 1.89 20 0747 1.87 needs find those rod bend 1322 0.46 1335 0.50 1335 0.70 1349 SU TH MO WE SU 1335 0.70 MO 1322 0.46 0.47 WE 1335 0.50 TH 1349 0.47 1920 1.79 1928 2023 1928 1.48 1.48 1920 1.71 holes and expose 1.71 you 1957 to be 1957 1.79constant. 2023 2.06 2.06 0055 0104 0142 0.60 0220 0055 0.61 0.61 0104 0.44 0.44 0142That quite quickly. 0.60 above all else 0220 0.67 0.67 6 0734 6 0751 0734 1.99 1.99 21 0736 0736 2.20 2.20 0751 1.86 1.86 21 0826 0826 1.74 1.74 0.64 0.52 0.42 0.47 MO TH FR Fortunately, helps hook 1401 0.64 TU 1356 marlin 0.42 1401 0.47 the 1420 MO 1401 0.52 point TU 1356 TH 1401 FR 1420 1958 2103 2001 2030 1958 1.55 1.55 2001 1.82 1.82 2030 1.88 1.88 2103 2.10 2.10 are stupid aggressive, find home and then 0220 0.63 0130 0149 0309 0130 0.56 0.56 0149 0.44 0.44 0220 0.63 0309 0.77 0.77 7 7so 22 22 0803 1.98 0817 1.80 0905 strikes can be2.13 fairly 0825 penetrate. 0803 1.98 0817 2.13 0825 1.80 0905 1.62 1.62 FR TU 1426 0.61 0.61 WE 1432 0.44 0.44 1427 0.47 0.47 SA 1448 0.60 TU 1426 0.60 WE 1432 FR 1427 SA 1448 easy to come by.1.90 the 2027 2044 2105 1.95 2143 2027 1.60 1.60 2044 1.90 2105After 1.95 penetration, 2143 2.11 2.11 If you find them first! rod bend maintains the 0204 0.56 0233 0.53 0300 0.69 0404 0.87 0204 0.56 0233 0.53 0300 0.69 0404 0.87 8 0902 8 0832 23the0944 1.72 1.50 0832 1.95 1.95 23 0858 0858 2.00 2.00 0902 1.72in 0944 1.50orienDon’t tooSA hook right 0.59 WE TH 1451 0.59 celebrate 1506 0.49 0.49 1456 0.50 0.50 SU 1517 0.70 WE 1451 0.70 TH 1506 SA 1456 SU 1517 2144 1.99 2057 1.66 2127 1.95 2224 2.08 2057 1.66 2144 1.99 for 2224 2.08 soon though.2127 1.95 tation a secure and 0.60 0319 0.67 0345 0.78 0506 0.95 0238 0.60 don’t 0319 assume 0.67 0345 0.78 0506 0.95 I mean, prolonged connection. 9 0238 24 9 24 0901 1.90 0937 1.83 0942 1.61 1026 1.40 0901 1.90 0937 1.83 0942 1.61 1026 1.40 1516 0.58 0.57 0.80 TH FR SU MO 1516 0.58 0.58 1540 0.58con1527You 0.57 would 1551think THyou’ll 0.80 that FRa1540 SU 1527 MO 1551 have good 2130 2211 2225 2307 2130 1.71 1.71 2211 1.96 1.96 2225 2.00 2.00 2307 2.02 2.02 keeping a rod bend is nection ten seconds af0313 0.67 0412 0.82 0439 0.87 0612 1.00 0313 0.67 0412 0.82 0439 0.87 0612 1.00 10ter 25 1016 0933 1.50 0933a 1.83 1.83 1016 1.67 1.67 10 1024 1024 1.50 25 1115 1115 1.32 1.32 accomplished by movbite. 1542 0.58 1611 0.68 1601 0.66 1632 0.90 FR MO FR 1542 0.58 SA SA 1611 0.68 MO 1601 0.66 TU TU 1632 0.90 2207 1.95 2311 2356 1.94 ing1.97 the rod – well, yes 2207 That1.75 minute is 1.75first 2256 2256 1.95 2311 1.97 2356 1.94 0352 0517 0547 0.94 0723 1.02 0352 0.77 0.77 and no – moving and 0517 0.97 crucial. 0.97 0547 0.94 0723 1.02 11 1008 1.74 26 1056 1.51 11 1112 1.38 26 1220 1.26

11 1008 SA 1610

26 1056 SU 1644

11 1112 TU 1641

26 1220 WE 1729

27 0144 0834 1321

0437 12 0437 1045 1045 SU 1642

0638 27 0638 1145 1145 MO 1725

0008 12 0008 0715 0715 WE 1221

0056 27 0056 0844 0844 TH 1401

1033 28 0304 1445

0536 0536 1125 13 1125 MO 1720

0043 0043 0810 28 0810 TU 1250

0127 0127 0850 13 0850 TH 1411

0208 0208 28 0954 0954 FR 1537

0231 14 0846 1342

0029 0029 14 0658 0658 TU 1215

0153 0153 29 0951 0951 WE 1428

0247 0247 14 0959 0959 FR 1538

0317 0317 29 1039 1039 SA 1636

0345 15 1032 1521

0149 0149 0858 15 0858 WE 1345

0308 0308 1053 30 1053 TH 1616

0355 0355 1053 15 1053 SA 1647

0412 0412 1110 30 1110 SU 1718

1.54 0.96 SU 1156 1.62 1818 0.69

1.57 1.04 MO 1241 1.50 1906 0.71

1.73 1.14 MO 1321 1.35 1937 0.89 1.76 1.10 TU 1445 1.25 2043 0.92

1.63 1.07 TU 1342 1.38 2004 0.72

1.75 0.99 WE 1521 1.30 2115 0.71

1.74 0.61 SA 1610 0.61 2248 2248 1.76 1.76

0.87 0.87 1.63 1.63 0.66 SU 1642 0.66 2333 2333 1.77 1.77

0.97 0.97 1.51 1.51 0.72 MO 1720 0.72 1.76 1.76 1.04 1.04 1.39 TU 1215 1.39 1810 0.79 0.79 1810

1.78 1.78 1.02 1.02 1.29 WE 1345 1.29 1921 0.84 1921 0.84

0457 31 1150 1628

1.79 1.04 TU 1628 1.27 2224 0.77

1.51 0.78 SU 1644 0.78 2345 2345 1.91 1.91

1.06 1.06 1.38 1.38 0.88 MO 1725 0.88 1.86 1.86 1.09 1.09 1.28 TU 1250 1.28 1824 0.97 0.97 1824

1.81 1.81 1.05 1.05 1.23 WE 1428 1.23 1942 1.03 1.03 1942 1.79 1.79 0.98 0.98 1.25 TH 1616 1.25 2105 1.02 2105 1.02

0412 0412 31 1129 1129 FR 1713

1.80 1.80 0.90 0.90 1.33 FR 1713 1.33 2216 0.95 0.95 2216

1.38 0.76 TU 1641 0.76

1.93 1.93 0.96 0.96 1.29 WE 1221 1.29 1737 1737 0.86 0.86 1.90 1.90 0.92 0.92 1.27 TH 1411 1.27 1902 0.92 0.92 1902

1.92 1.92 0.81 0.81 1.34 FR 1538 1.34 2045 0.90 0.90 2045

1.98 1.98 0.70 0.70 1.46 SA 1647 1.46 2216 0.80 2216 0.80

1.26 0.99 WE 1729 0.99

TH 1401 1850 1850

FR 1537 2015 2015

SA 1636 2134 2134

1.85 1.85 1.01 1.01 1.24 1.24 1.05 1.05 1.78 1.78 0.96 0.96 1.28 1.28 1.05 1.05 1.75 1.75 0.88 0.88 1.36 1.36 0.99 0.99

sweeping the rod tip will only initiate. The fastest way to maintain and control the bend in the rod is with the reel. You cannot sweep the rod indefinitely, however the reel you can turn almost infinitely. In the blink of an eye, you can most definitely turn in enough line to keep any rod-angling situation ‘bent’. In most cases, I find anglers doing too much with the rod. The moments of slack line are always an opportunity to free that fish!

SCAN QR CODE

1.75 1.75 0.78 0.78 1.46 SU 1718 1.46 2235 0.89 2235 0.89

FullSymbols Moon Moon Phase Phase Symbols Moon

NewLast Moon Quarter New Moon

Page 56 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

First Quarter Quarter First

Full Moon Moon Full

Last Quarter Quarter Last

16 plastic it ate shortly after hook-up. A marlin tried to throw the soft 16

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 57

Brendon Tait was stoked with this gorgeous coronation trout.

Brendon showed off a pair of nice red emperor taken off Seventeen Seventy.

Brendon snavelled a solid spangled emperor during trophy week.

Dale McClurg and his monster red emperor.

Dale took a bludger trevally over the weekend. Page 58 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Seventeen Seventy BNB Trophy

HANDFUL of Power Boat Anglers vessels headed north for the traditional PBA Saturday road trip, with Karma Cat among the mix, surprising a few. The surprise was not that Terry attended, but that he was there at 7am, because everyone knows Terry likes and needs as much beauty sleep as he can get. Hitting the road north, the crews were looking at a gloomy weather outlook for the week, which wasn’t anything out of the ordinary because the previous four years had basically been a carbon copy. On the upside, a few windows to be taken advantage of occasionally pop up, so it’s generally a ‘suck it and see’ type of arrangement to start with. Regardless of the outlook, spirits were high because hey, they were on a fishing holiday with good company and at least a little socialising was to be had among the PBA crowd. The trip north was going smoothly until Blackers lucked out and spat a brake calliper before the lights in the middle of Childers.

Power Boat Anglers by MICK CLUTTERBUCK

This managed to then chew through the rim in super quick time, resulting in a deflated tyre and the lunched rim. The crew performed a quick roadside repair and wheel swap and were back on the road in good time, arriving in Agnes Water at about 2pm. By this time, Brett and Stuart were already fishing, having decided to make the most of the good weekend weather, so headed up early, foregoing the first weigh-in. Blackers was to fly solo for the first few days as his deckhand Lakis had commitments that locked him up until the Tuesday, but Dale jumped on White Pointer for the first trip, to help him out. On the Sunday, all the PBA ‘Sunday fishing boats’ had crossed the flat but shallow bar by 5.30am. Though the conditions were surprisingly good, there was enough residual swell from the previous week’s bad weather to keep speeds down.

Destinations varied between Fitzroy Reef, the Wides and out past Boult Reef where Karma Cat, White Pointer and Will Power decided to target first. The fishing was fairly hard going, though Karma Cat, White Pointer and Will Power managed to box five good red emperor between them. It was obvious there was going to be a stoush over who would take the hotly contested win for heaviest red. Terry took the lead early but was trumped by Dale in about 30 minutes, who managed to hold him off for the rest of the day. Monday through to Thursday were 20-25 knot lay days, with time spent in a mix of social chats, Bundaberg trips for wheels and medicinal supplies from the distillery, surfing, golf, dinners and even a mini committee meeting, where next year’s dates were discussed. A favourite afternoon activity was enjoying * continued P59

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Seventeen Seventy BNB Trophy * from P58

some fresh yellowfin tuna sashimi washed down with a few icy cold beverages. In the end, the four bad weather days passed quickly and, with a fantastic forecast for Friday and Saturday, everyone was champing at the bit to get out and knock Dale and Johnny off their perches in the battle for the red emperor and coral trout pots. Depending on the home departure date, some boats opted for day trips while others chose overnighters. The four that decided on an overnighter in Fitzroy initially rafted up with Karma Cat for drinks and dinner but, when the wind picked up to 15 knots, decided to part company for safety’s sake because it probably wasn’t the best

idea to all hang off one anchor for the night. Morning conditions outside were good, with a small swell that only improved during the day – we almost had a few near glass outs. The fish never really got on the chew, but catches improved through the day for most crews, resulting in Eskies steadily filling until the self-imposed ‘lines up’. There were a few trophy coronation and coral trout and red emperor caught but no really big fish. Helaine was fuming after having her brandnew Nomad lure bitten off on the first cast, saying it was guaranteed to have been the fish of the competition. I did remark that at least she had a picture of it – and maybe a small

wire trace next time. The fast trip home was a pleasant end to the fishing, despite the fourday weather lay days, which have been the norm for all four trips over the past two years. Overall, it was another great and sociable PBA Seventeen Seventy BNB Trophy week and a big thanks has to go to the organisers, supporters and to all who attended. PBA meetings occur on the first Wednesday of every month at ‘The Club Manly’ (bowls club), 26 Faine St Manly from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. We’re currently on our annual break, so the first meeting for 2023 will be on Wednesday February 1. Until next month, safe boating.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 59

The author’s son Clint and a slug-caught tuna.

The author stretched some string on a Bustard Bay mack tuna.

Steve Cooke with a solid buck.

Colour co-ordinated, the author seemed to have the right coloured shirt and mouth. Page 60 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Summer fun in Bustard Bay

ASSIVE numbers of baitfish schools have had predators and speedsters on the chew in the Bustard Bay area. Holiday makers have enjoyed the opportunity of targeting a wide variety of fish as well as the chance to score on of our Queensland mud crabs. Round Hill Creek had huge schools of herring throughout the waterway and heaps of small prawns gathered tight in around the mangroves. Travelling offshore, the sounder was quick to show bait balls everywhere and at different

Agnes Water by PAUL ‘CHIEF’ GRAVESON

depths in the water column. The baitfish are tiny at about 2cm in length. A lot of anglers told me that the surface fish were not interested in anything they offered. First, to find out why, would be to look at what the fish were actually feeding on and then match the hatch. Try using slugs that are close to the prey’s size and profile. Second is to fish light – too many times, anglers

Blake and a nice trout.

use leaders that look like 60lb fluorocarbon – a 20lb leader is probably a better place to start. Sure, you could occasionally lose a fish, but the strike rate of hookups is the key to your overall success. Better to continually achieve strikes than nothing at all. Happy new year to you all and I hope your festive season was a good one. If you’re fishing over the break, tight lines.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 61

The author with the biggest barramundi for the competition at 128cm.

The author with Fishtec owner Craig Griffiths and the biggest overall barramundi prize.

A couple of likely suspects at the front of this drain on the Humminbird Solix 12.

Fitzroy River Barra Bash

AM a bit late with the report for the Fitzroy River Barra Bash, but as the old saying goes, better late than never. Way back in mid-October, the Frenchville Sports Club Fitzroy River Barra Bash was run and won. The biggest talking point about the competition in 2022 was the rain. The rain we had out west kept opening and closing the gates on the barrage, which meant the fishing in the Fitzroy River was going to be tough. The forecast for the competition wasn’t look-

Luke Peisker with a 95cm barramundi. Page 62 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Capricorn Coast by JOHN BOON

ing fabulous either. Showers and storms for the first two days, followed by constant rain for the third. In the month leading up to the event, I would have spent about eight days on the water. With all the freshwater in the Fitzroy and if we were to figure something out, I needed as much time out as possible. All our competition fishing had been done in the Fitzroy, so we would have been starting fairly fresh if we were to look at fishing another area. At the end of the eight days, we weren’t that much better off. Eight days on the water and only one barramundi hit the deck. Most of the time was spent scanning with the sounder or sitting in various places and watching what came past the transducer. There are so many aspects as to why the Barra Bash is such a great competition.

The atmosphere would have to be number one, with so many top anglers all under the one roof. The banter and friendship are on full display. And it is always great to have one of the crew as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Steve Lill would have to be the best MC I have ever seen at a comp. He has a wealth of knowledge and his humour is next level – he always keeps the crowd in stitches. The Frenchville Sports Club administration team are highly motivated, continue to improve the event and are a top group of people – very helpful, no matter what the issue is. They make sure the comp is run at the highest level and are very professional. Additionally, there are the cash and prizes. This event would be up there with Australia’s richest barramundi competition. * continued P63

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Frenchville Sports Club Fitzroy River Barra Bash * from P62

There are so many wonderful sponsors who make this event what it is today, so a big thank you to all of them. Right, let’s get into the details. As mentioned, the weather and conditions were predicted to be unkind. I visited the crew at Rockhampton BCF a few days prior and bought full wet-weather gear. Day one didn’t start well for us. We chatted before kick-off and knew we had to make everything count. In the first hour, we had two bites and jumped one off at the boat – not a great start. We kept persisting but went through the best stage of the tide with nothing else to show for our efforts. We kept grinding and finally got a bit of a bite late in the afternoon. I hooked up first with a quality king threadfin of 125cm. Luke got the bite we needed and, after a tense fight on light gear, we had our first barra on the deck at 102cm. I was up again with a good-sized fish but unfortunately, it was a big black jewfish of 130cm. At the end of the first day, we were sitting at about seventeenth with only the one barra. There were a few teams who had done very well. Good friends Ben Gilbertson and Troy Newman from Bent Poles had the lead with 521cm of barra. Barra Mafia were hot on their heels with 464cm. Day two was very similar to the first. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Rain and overcast conditions were the norm. We grinded once again and managed only the one barra at 80cm. Local guru Mitch Anderson and his teammate from Barra Mafia had another great day, grabbing the lead with 734cm total. Bent Poles were not far behind with 601cm. Day three had the worst forecast and, right on kick off, down came the rain. It was constant and heavy, which made it even more difficult. Our plan hadn’t worked the first two days, so we decided to do something different and chase bigger barra. The plan paid off and Luke had our first barra on the deck only an hour after kick-off. It was quality at 95cm. A couple of casts later, he hooked a horse, but the hook pulled about twenty seconds into the fight. We did get a couple more bites but that was all we managed from that spot. Spot hopping was difficult with the rain. The downpour was so hard at times, we were getting welts from travelling. The next spot didn’t look great, with only a few fish showing, but we had travelled there so decided to have a few casts – I’m glad we did. First cast with a 5” Zerek Flat Shad and it was crunched. Imagine the looks on our faces when this big bucket mouth came out of the water. It was a giant! Our teamwork was on point and Luke scooped it up in the net. The big barra went

to 128cm – it was high fives and hugs all round. I had always wanted a 1m barra in a comp… but to get one that size – it was a special achievement. The presentation night was another cracker. So many great anglers to talk with. The dob-in-a-friend chat is always interesting, with unfortunate acts such as people falling out of boats and boats running up sand bars being common. The stories are always top shelf and in good fun. Somehow, we had managed to sneak our way into the top 10 prize money, coming in eighth with only four barra. I guess that gives you an indication of how tough it was. The top three cham-

pion teams were – third place team, Gone Nuts made up of Mark Boss and Steve Nutall with 708cm, the second place team was Bent Poles consisting of Ben Gilbertson and Troy Newman with 947cm, and first place team was Barra Mafia comprising of Mitch Anderson and Shaun Carrick with 997cm. Second place for biggest barra was Arron McDonald from Barra Havoc with 107cm and first place was taken out

by yours truly with the 128cm. Biggest threadfin was Louis Moore with 147cm, and team threadfin was taken out by the Spice Brothers with 1711cm. So, that’s a wrap from the 2022 Fitzroy River Barra Bash. Make sure to follow the Frenchville Sports Club Fitzroy River Barra Bash page to jump on the 2023 event. One thing I can assure you of is, you won’t be disappointed.

The author’s big barramundi on the brag mat.

Barra Mafia took out overall team champions.

Bent Poles came runners up for overall champions. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 63

Pursuit IV Spinning Combo 22 Infeet X

DAIWA’S Infeet range of products has become synonymous with light-line anglers all over Australia and the arrival of the new Infeet X spin reel continues the tradition for finesse angling design and performance excellence. Featuring Daiwa’s carbon composite Zaion V body, the Infeet X is strong and sturdy while remaining incredibly lightweight and saltwater proof. Two shallow spool models feature in the Infeet X range, with the 2000S-P featuring a 4.8:1 retrieve ratio and the 2500S a 5.3:1 ratio, with both the shallow spool and retrieve ratios selected for the wants of Aussie light tackle anglers in mind. Daiwa’s next generation ATD Type-L drag is installed for the first time outside the 22 Exist. The benchmark in light line drag performance, ATD Type-L lowers the startup inertia of the drag system even more than previous ATD systems, meaning even the lightest of lines are protected from fish strikes and sudden lunges during the fight. Finesse saltwater performance and longevity is further enhanced courtesy of CRBB corrosion resistant bearings, Magseal and Daiwa’s Tough Digigear gearing system. Infeet X is a perfect choice for the keen light-tackle angler looking for a new reel, and those looking for a new member to join their Infeet family. Visit daiwafishing.com.au

Page 64 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

THE Penn Pursuit IV spinning combo is great for inshore, boat and surf fishing. This combo combines the Pursuit IV Spinning Reel and a graphite composite rod for an affordable and durable fish-taming setup. The reel features an ultra-lightweight corrosion-resistant graphite body and houses Penn’s powerful HT-100 drag system, making the Pursuit IV great value for money for saltwater anglers. Available in seven different rod and reel variations. Visit pennfishing.com.au

Zerek Live Shrimp

THE Zerek Live Shrimp is the most popular of all the Zerek lures and it’s little wonder – it is amazingly lifelike, exceptionally durable and catches fish everywhere. With a lifelike realistic colour range, the Zerek Live Shrimp has mastered the prawn imitation with innovative design and attention to detail that brings these lures to life in the water. A unique rigging slot in the body is designed to shield the hook, allowing the Live Shrimp to be fished in the heaviest of cover while maintaining an exceptional hook-up rate. An in-built rattle chamber allows for extra sonics and the unique moving legs provide subtle action that appeals to wary fish.

The Live Shrimp can be rigged on the supplied weedless worm hook or on a conventional jig head for open area fishing, and the luminescent eyes and segmented tail provide even further attraction when this lure is being used. Available in 2”, 3.5” and 5” sizes, as well as unrigged twin packs in 3.5” and 5”, the Zerek Live Shrimp is still the most productive soft shrimp lure in the country. Use the best, use Zerek. Visit wilsonfishing.com.au

Mustad Big Eye Bucktail Jig

MUSTAD has released a range of bucktail jigs designed for fishing from freshwater through to the deepest saltwater ledges. Built on the 32824 NP-BN 2X strong hook, the Mustad Big Eye Bucktail Jig features two-line tie positions to give the angler options. The nose tie allows the angler to cast and retrieve the jig, mimicking a swimming action. The top tie allows the angler to employ a more traditional jigging retrieve. But don’t think there are only two uses for these jigs – clever anglers are already fitting them out for trolling dead bait for mackerel and more! Featuring oversized 3D eyes, the Big Eye Bucktail Jig has hand-tied deer hair and crystal flash to give the jigs an appearance of life when being used. There is also a keeper wire located near the lead head that allows soft plastic trailers to be fitted, as well as bait. An epoxy finish gives the head a durability against the elements and fish, and the eight colours in the range allow every angler to have the colour they want. Sizes range from a 3/4oz jig with a 5/0 hook, all the way through to a massive 8oz jig fitted with a 9/0 hook. Visit wilsonfishing.com.au

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The Lunker Frog features high quality components, a super soft hollow body construction and a weedless design. Available in 40mm (1/4oz) and 55mm (1/2oz), and in 10 colours. Visit ejtodd.com.au

Penn Slammer

THE Slammer name needs little introduction in saltwater circles, developing a cult following for being synonymous with bulletproof strength and lasting the distance no matter the conditions. Slammer now appears on a Penn rod range, representing the next generation of high-performance sportfishing rods – with powerful lightweight blanks combined with renowned Slammer durability. The range is also equipped with tangle-free Fuji K-frame guides containing SiC inserts, Fuji reel seats and contoured high density EVA grips for a technical, sensitive and premium finish. Visit pennfishing.com.au

Lunkerhunt Lunker Frog

THE Lunkerhunt Lunker Frog is the most lifelike frog currently available in the industry. It features an amazing swimming leg design that replicates an adult frog and has swimming legs that extend during the retrieve and retract on the pause. At rest, the Lunker Frog is 2.5” and will extend up to 4.5” on the retrieve. The Lunker Frog behaves as a live frog would in the water. At rest, the body of the Lunker Frog drops down a little into the water, perfectly replicating the action of a frog. Designed with a soft body that collapses easily upon attack and quickly exposes its razor-sharp double frog hook, this results in higher hook-up percentages. www.bnbfishing.com.au

the Barra Spin 5’9” spin stick has plenty of spine to give back the punishment that fish such as barramundi, threadfin, mangrove jack and fingermark enjoy dishing out. Rated for 6kg line, the Venom Barra Spin features a full Fuji fit out, from winch to guides, and is built with A-grade cork grips for extra sensitivity. Ideal for use when throwing lures into tight corners where big fish are found, the Venom Barra Spin complements the range of existing Venom baitcast rods perfectly. Visit wilsonfishing.com.au

Penn Authority

OUR most advanced reel yet, with an IPX8 sealed body and spool, this reel takes long runs in heavy seas or the pounding of big surf in its stride. Beefed up by ultra-durable CNC machined stainless-steel main and pinion gears, the patented Dura-Drag technology enforces obedience, eliminating hesitation even under the most extreme settings. A 12+1 premium stainless-steel bearing system combines with Leveline slow oscillation to ensure enduring smoothness and precision, behind all that trademark Penn power. The lasting Authority in saltwater spinning reels is here. Let the battle begin. Visit pennfishing.com.au

Venom Barra Spin 6kg

THE Venom Barra Spin is a brilliant 6kg spin stick designed for those fishing tight structure with spin gear. With a light tip to allow for easy casting,

Saltiga FC X-Link

SALTIGA FC X-Link brings the advancements of X-Link technology to heavy fresh and saltwater arenas. The X-Link method alters the molecular structure of the line itself, bonding individual particles on a chemical level. This change in the chemical composition results in a line that is much stronger for its given diameter. The X-Link method also produces a line that is incredibly limp and supple, resulting in a more manageable line and a much higher knot retention. Daiwa’s tough resin paired with the cross-link process creates a supple yet extremely abrasion resistant fluorocarbon leader that retains knot strength. Saltiga FC X-Link is the perfect choice when you want a tough leader to resist scuffing and abrasion around the reef or protect from the rasping jaws off a big barramundi. Saltiga FC X-Link is parallel spooled and is available from 20-100lb. Visit daiwafishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 65

Angler’s Almanac February 2023

January 2023

DAY Above Below Sun.

Mon.

Tue. FIRST GIBBOUS

Wed.

Thur.

5 Fri.

6 Sat. FULL MOON

6.42pm

7.06am

8.16pm

7.52am

9.06pm

8.41am

9.57pm

9.32am

Tue.

Wed. LAST GIBBOUS

Thur.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun. LAST QUARTER

Mon.

Tue.

17 Wed. LAST CRESCENT

18 Thur.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun. NEW MOON

22 Mon.

23 Tue.

24 Wed.

25 FIRST CRESCENT

Thur.

26 Fri.

Sat.

Sun. FIRST QUARTER

Mon.

Tue.

Thur. FIRST GIBBOUS

Fri.

Sat.

4 Sun.

5 Mon.

10.49pm 10.24am

FULL MOON

11.39pm 11.15am

Tue.

12.05pm

Wed.

8 9

Wed.

6.20am

7.28pm

Sun.

Mon.

DAY Above Below

Notes

1.37pm

1.58am

2.20pm

2.40am

3.01pm

3.21am

3.42pm

4.02am

4.24pm

4.44am

5.07pm

5.29am

5.54pm

Thur.

Fri. LAST GIBBOUS

Sat.

Sun.

Mon.

Tue. LAST QUARTER

Wed.

Thur.

16 LAST CRESCENT

6.18am

6.45pm

Fri.

7.12am

7.42pm

Sat.

8.12am

8.45pm

9.17am

9.51pm

17 18

Sun.

Mon. NEW MOON

10.24am 10.58pm

Tue.

11.30am

Wed.

21 22

12.31pm 12.02am

Thur.

23 1.27pm

1.00am

Fri.

2.19pm

1.54am

Sat.

3.07pm

2.44am

Sun.

3.31am

Mon.

25 26

FIRST QUARTER

4.39pm

4.17am

5.25pm

5.03am

6.13pm

5.50am

7.02pm

6.38am

Minor Times: Add 6 hours

Page 66 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

8.44pm

8.19am

9.35pm

9.11am

Notes

10.25pm 10.01am 11.12pm 10.49am 11.56pm 11.35am 12.19pm 12.39am

1.01pm

1.20am

1.41pm

2.01am

2.22pm

2.42am

3.04pm

3.25am

3.49pm

4.11am

4.37pm

5.02am

5.30pm

5.57am

6.28pm

6.58am

7.30pm

8.02am

8.35pm

9.07am

9.39pm

10.10am 10.40pm 11.09am 11.37pm 12.03pm 12.54pm 12.37am 1.43pm

1.19am

2.30pm

2.07am

3.18pm

2.55am

4.06pm

3.43am

4.56pm

4.32am

5.48pm

5.23am

FIRST CRESCENT

3.53pm

7.28am

12.28am 12.52pm 1.14am

7.53pm

Tue.

Minor Times: Add 6 hours

Collins Media would like to acknowledge and thank Peter Layton from The Great Outdoors Publications for the use of his Angler’s Almanac and associated information. Peter has been kind enough to provide these predictions. The theory behind the predictions will be published on bnbfishing.com.au www.bnbfishing.com. au

BOATING & marine Insights into boat insurance

Insurers won’t cover general wear and tear

OAT floor feeling a little spongey? Think you might have some softness in the transom of your boat and possibly the stringers? And how about that 100-litre freshwater bladder where the seepage just refuses to stop? You’re right, they’re things that need attention – expert attention. When you size up the cost of replacing the transom and stringers, you’ll find that it’s a lot cheaper than replacing the boat. But are these works covered under your insurance policy? Very unlikely is the short answer. That’s because, just like your car or motorcycle, boats require regular maintenance and despite it, they will still age and wear. If you flip the argument around and use your car as an example, ask yourself whether you think it would be fair for an insurer to pay you out for a new car simply because yours had covered 250,000km and was now all but worn out? If that were the case, everyone would be getting a free car regularly. But there’s also an in-

teresting possible scenario here. Say you were backing your boat and trailer into the garage and you whacked the port side of the transom on a garage pier. Transom damage, right? Yes – with ‘accidental damage’ being the key phrase rather than transom damage from years of age deterioration. And that’s why it’s important if you do damage your transom with a driveway incident – and believe it or not, that’s how a substantial proportion of insurance claims arise – that you immediately get it inspected by a professional. A qualified person undertaking the inspection knows that if there is any doubt about the legitimacy of the claim, then they will come under scrutiny when the insurer’s assessors inspect the vessel. Many of these assessors are former boat builders. They know what they are looking at and they’ll have a fairly good idea of what is involved in the repair. So, there’s no room for trying to ‘fudge’ the facts.

A genuine accidental incident is one thing – trying to pass age-related deterioration off as an accident is another thing altogether. There’s a term for it – insurance fraud. Yes, it is possible that belting the transom on a brick pier can cause some sort of damage for which there might be a legitimate claim. That’s why it’s important to act quickly and contact your specialist marine insurer so the damage and its impacts can be assessed. There’s no point in trying to come back years later and claim that your ‘soft’ transom is the result of damage suffered years ago that you didn’t think was worth reporting at the time. Current manufacturing standards and materials make today’s brand name vessels considerably more durable. That’s one of the reasons why Nautilus has extended its cover for trailered runabouts to 30 years without a vessel condition report, rather than the previous 20-year limitation. But even today’s boats will still wear. In time, the gloss will come off that gleaming

gelcoat and likewise the upholstery. A regular polish will slow the process, but it is inevitable that the aging process will take its toll. Also be aware that a boat stored with a very snug full cover in a humid location such as Queensland can ‘sweat’, which may also promote the growth of mould. A lot of moisture in the air and insufficient air flow can accelerate the deterioration of some materials, including timber. That type of damage is not regarded as a one-off accident where a claim could be lodged. Bottom line – accidental damage is insurable but wear and tear due to age or the way the vessel has been used is not.

And yes, there also are ‘grey area’ circumstances which may not fall neatly into those classifications. These are decided on a case-by-case basis, which is another reason for insuring with a specialist marine insurer such as Nautilus. As always, what is and what may not be covered will always be decided in accord with the terms of insurance as defined in your insurance policy’s product disclosure statement. Similarly, any special conditions and excesses should always be explained clearly in your insurance policy’s PDS. If you need further information, you can contact Nautilus Marine Insurance on 1300 780 533 for any boat insurance requirements.

A qualified person undertaking the inspection knows if there is any doubt about the legitimacy of the claim.

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

www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 67

BOATING & marine

Happy author, a nice golden trevally and his Angler RSF 149.

Angler Boats RSF 149 review

H The bow on the RSF 149 offers a dry ride for all.

A simple but very effective helm on the ‘muddy’. Page 68 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

I all and welcome to 2023. May your new year be full of outdoor experiences and adventures. I know I’m keen to explore what’s on offer around the beautiful Discovery Coast region, especially in this little gem of a boat, the RSF 149 manufactured by Angler Boats in Bundaberg. Greg Franks is a dedicated fisho and has produced a range of custom-made and well-appointed fishing boats. The RSF 149 is the baby of the fleet, which ranges up to models such as the Angler 640 – all are factory-built and customised to your specialised personal requirements. Greg was fortunate to acquire the Southwind moulds, which are the base for his range of boats. Angler 640 was previously known as the Southwind 640. I was lucky to have a walk around the factory to see the process of how

Boat Review by PAUL ‘CHIEF’ GRAVESON

these boats are built and to gain an understanding of the attention to detail Greg demands on any of his builds. I left the premises fully confident in my choice and the fact that I now own an Angler boat. Let me give you the run down on my little RSF 149 and why I’m so over the moon. Basically, this boat is 4.45m and is available in an open-tiller steer version, side console or centre console, like mine. Horsepower rating goes from 30hp to a maximum of 60hp. My boat is powered by a Mercury 60hp, and the performance of this craft is one to be experienced, plus the economy is absolutely brilliant. It jumps onto the plane effortlessly and rides beautifully in a bit of swell. The standard underfloor 60-litre tank gives

this little rig the legs to cover considerable distances. If you’re like me and concerned about running costs with rising fuel prices, worry no more. That old saying of ‘runs on the smell of an oily rag’ has never been more relevant – possibly due to the way the hull of the RSF 149 glides through the water. This model was originally built to work as a professional crabbing boat, due to the unrestricted workspace available. Hence its nickname, the ‘muddy’, but this boat has evolved into so much more. The original design ideas for the hull were to bring it in at 4.45m – to comply with the cheaper Queensland boat registrations. Greg wanted the rig light to tow and to also

* continued P69

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BOATING & marine

Angler Boats RSF 149 review * from P68

be an economical easyuse well-built boat. I can say, “Yes, it ticks all the boxes,” and what a presence this boat has on the water. I can’t believe how dry the hull is, even in windy choppy conditions. Operating from the helm, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re skippering a much larger craft. The good-sized side pockets offer ample storage, leaving the massive open-floor space perfect for trolling or spinning for pelagic fish. It’s hard to find any compromise in stability, which is usually forgotten about when trying to provide a soft comfortable ride. I rate everything about

it and am so proud to own one. You won’t find Angler boats at any dealerships because each craft is built to the highest standard for you as a direct customer. The stainless-steel fittings such as cleats, rod holders and bow rollers are items occasionally sacrificed to keep building costs down, but not on the RSF 149. Battery isolator, navigation lights, bilge pump and fuel filter are all standard inclusions. I have optional extras on my rig, such as a livebait tank, a high-pressure deck hose and a duck board, which all add to the feeling of this being a much larger craft. This is also the first

time I’ve had a Stonegate boat trailer, and the launch and retrieve of this rig is such a pleasure and so easily achieved due to its excellent set up. Honestly, if you’re looking at a craft of a similar size that is well appointed and made for fishing, I would recommend you throw the RSF 149 into the mix. Have a look at what you want in a boat, price it up and then talk to Greg Franks from Angler Boats to see what he can offer. Angler Boats is situated at 61 Princess St, Bundaberg – you can visit the site at angler boatsqld.com.au, email anglerboatsqld@gmail. com or give Greg a call on 0418 767 248.

The Angler RSF 149 has enough room to throw a party.

Mercury sustainability with Queensland office going solar

ERCURY Marine has underlined its global commitment to sustainability with its first largescale solar installation across its Australia and New Zealand operations. The new 40kW system was turned on in September at the company’s Gold Coast offices, which serve as a warehouse and distribution centre for Mercury’s Queensland operations and incorporates a sales centre and workshop for the servicing of engines. The system is projected to generate almost 63,000kW hours of power per year, saving thousands of dollars and preventing over 50 www.bnbfishing.com.au

tonnes of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere annually. Mercury Marine senior director of supply chain Asia Pacific Andrew McLean said, “The Queensland office has been a good pilot program to measure the return on investment and the reduction in carbon emissions.” “We are already starting to save money on our electricity bills in the couple of months since we installed the system, and we know it’s making a difference to our environmental footprint. “There will still be some need for electricity from the grid but solar is now providing the majority of what we need

to run this 2500sq m facility, which is very pleasing,” Mr McLean said. Part of a global initiative throughout Mercury Marine and holding company Brunswick Corporation, the organisation has put a major focus on sustainability, green energy and heading towards zero waste. And this is only the start for Mercury’s local operations. “Our plan is to have all our Mercury facilities in Australia powered by solar, so this first pilot program has been a critical proof of concept and we’re now actively looking at other areas of our network,” Mr McLean said.

The move is in line with Mercury Marine’s stated commitment to meeting its fiscal responsibilities while developing and manufacturing products in a manner that is safe, environmentally responsible, protective of the earth’s natural resources and conducive to improved quality of life for all its stakeholders. Mercury adopts four pillars of sustainability – energy, environment, product and people – with clearly defined goals of how they plan to transition into a more sustainable conscious organisation globally. This includes a number of 2025 targets such as: • Reduce energy consumption by 25 percent

• Reduce outboard emissions by 80 percent and sterndrive emissions by 70 percent in comparison to 2005 levels • Designate 50 percent of global distribution centres and warehouse operations as zero waste to landfill facilities • Reduce water consumption by 25 percent in comparison to 2016 baseline. The company has also set an ambitious goal to derive 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The Mercury Marine Sustainability Report can be viewed at mer curymarine.widen.net/s/ gxlfjg8tds/mercury-sust ainability-report-2021

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 69

BOATING & marine Touchscreen control of Lowrance and MotorGuide trolling motors, autopilot, Lowrance outboard pilot and Power-Pole shallow water anchors.

Find great fishing spots with enhanced embedded charts from the detail of C-MAP inland and coastal charts built into HDS Pro displays.

Lowrance unveils new gen of ultimate fishing system

WORLD leader in fishing electronics since 1957, Lowrance recently rolled out its next generation of fishing electronics. The new HDS Pro chartplotter fishfinder, highest resolution ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar and ultra high-definition Active Imaging HD provide anglers with the complete package of the latest fish-finding technology. HDS Pro forms the heart of the ultimate fishing system – offering full networking and bow-to-stern boat control – spanning trolling motors, autopilots, engines, radar, com-

munications, and connectivity and control of PowerPole shallow water anchors. The new HDS Pro introduces two new chart overlays for ActiveTarget Scout mode and Ghost 360, as well as a new 10” display, an angler favourite, with a new form factor and aspect ratio, delivering a better screen in a new package. ActiveTarget 2 is the newest update to the award-winning ActiveTarget live sonar that was unveiled in 2020 and quickly became a mainstay for the world’s best anglers and professionals of major league fishing.

Active Target 2 provides higher-resolution views of fish movement and structure and enables anglers to quickly recognise if lures and techniques are working in real-time, allowing them to make adjustments to get fish to strike. It delivers a smoother and more consistent image across the entire range, with full live-action picture in ‘Forward’, ‘Down’ and ‘Scout’ views. Additionally, HDS Pro allows for the use of two systems at the same time, giving even more views simultaneously with ‘180 View’, ‘Scout Wide View’ and

The new technologies are aimed at helping anglers find, see and catch more fish. Page 70 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

‘Forward and Scout split screen view’. Active Imaging HD rounds out the suite of products with the clearest images of fish and structure from Lowrance CHIRP sonar, SideScan and DownScan Imaging. Additionally, a new FishReveal SideScan view is now available with a new S3100 Sonar Module, in addition to the already popular DownScan Fish reveal view, helping anglers easily identify fish targets to the sides and beneath the boat. Navico Group vice president and general manager fishing systems Jeremiah Clark said, “All of these new technologies we’re introducing are aimed at helping anglers find, see and catch more fish, by providing the full suite of tools and the highest resolution and clearest images of fish and structure to date.” “Lowrance continues to innovate with remarkable new products and offerings, and we are confident anglers will love these

latest products.” HDS Pro offers complete bow-to-stern control on a SolarMax HD touchscreen, which provides stunning sonar images of fish and structure from the Active Imaging HD and ActiveTarget 2 live sonar technologies, along with incredibly detailed chart information that is easy to see from any angle, in direct sunlight and through polarised lenses – a real difference on the water. In Australia and New Zealand, customers can find great fishing spots with enhanced embedded charts from the detail of C-MAP inland and coastal charts built into HDS Pro displays. Enhanced embedded charts help anglers find ledges, drop-offs and ditches – then help navigate there with precision. Additionally, the new overlay options will give anglers a completely new view with ActiveTarget Scout mode or Ghost 360 modes directly overlayed on the chart screens.

* continued P71

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BOATING & marine

Lowrance unveils new fishing system * from P70

The HDS Pro fishfinder is available in 9”, all new 10”, 12” and 16” display sizes and is on-sale now at a starting price of $3899. Key features include: • High-definition Active Imaging HD ready with Lowrance CHIRP SideScan DownScan Imaging • High-resolution ActiveTarget 2 live sonar-ready • Supports two ActiveTarget systems for multiple views simultaneously • Supports new

FishReveal sidescan view with a new S3100 sonar module • Support for new ActiveTarget Scout mode and Ghost 360 chart overlay views • SolarMAX HD Touchscreen viewable at extreme angles and through polarised lenses • Large programmable keys for 10”, 12” and 16” sizes • Touchscreen control of Lowrance and MotorGuide trolling motors, autopilot, Lowrance outboard pilot and Power-Pole shal-

low water anchors • NMEA 2000, wireless and bluetooth connectivity – plus smartphone notifications • Preloaded C-MAP enhanced charts for New Zealand and Australia • Wide range of optional chart upgrades including C-MAP Reveal, Navionics, Florida marine tracks and more. For more information on Lowrance and its tour nament-winning fish finding technology, visit lowrance.com

HDS Pro offers complete bow-to-stern control on a SolarMAX HD touchscreen.

Stacer Sea Masters are made for summer

ITH summer well and truly on the doorstep, families and outdoor lovers alike are looking at making summer plans – away from the digital world. And those plans are taken up a notch with the addition of a Stacer Sea Master. The only runabout featured in the Stacer line-up – the Sea Master has been a solid family favourite for decades. Available from models 429 all the way up to 589, there is a Sea Master to suit many budgets, storage spaces and lifestyles. For those who are indecisive about which boat to purchase or what accessories to add on, this year Stacer introduced option packs to make deciding and purchasing easier than ever. For those who love comfort and style, the entertainer pack fea-

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tures plush extras – including a bimini and envelope, front and side clears, sound system and speakers, a deluxe rear lounge and upgraded pedestal seats. For those who are all about fishing, the angler pack is a must have with features such as a berley bucket, ski pole and cutting board and marine radio. For all the cruisers out there, who love to get behind the wheel and explore what their waterways have to offer, the travel pack makes driving a more premium experience – with an upgrade to hydraulic tilt steering in the 429 models and an upgraded steering wheel. And finally, for those who love all the bells and whistles, the SE model has everything you could want for the perfect day on the water. The standard features

on the Sea Master are nothing to sneeze at either. All showcase Stacer’s Revolution Hull, which ensures a smooth, dry ride and unparalleled stability at rest. Storage is ample, with underfloor compartments, side pockets and a covered dash, and safety is never compro-

mised, with side rails as standard. The beauty of the Sea Master is that for the discerning traveller, it can open up Australia’s waterways and give a different experience each outing – cruising the estuaries for the perfect swimming holes, hunting down barramundi in hidden creeks and

rivers, spotting whales and dolphins offshore or turning the adrenaline up to maximum with a day of water sports. Discover your adventure with Stacer today, by visiting stacer.com.au /alum inium-boat-range/sea-masters to find out more or contact your local dealer.

Available from models 429 all the way up to 589, there is a Sea Master to suit many budgets, storage spaces and lifestyles. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 71

BOATING & marine

Yellowfin 7000 Centre Cabin epitomises plate boating

OR those into serious game fishing and offshore escapades – the Yellowfin Centre Cabin delivers the epitome of plate boating – breaking the boundaries of time and serving up unlimited potential as a fully equipped blue-water machine. Boasting 360-degree fishability with its seamless helm design and spacious yet discrete bow bunk, which can be extensively customised to feature longhaul essentials including an electric toilet, it is the perfect allrounder. Built tough to go the distance, the Centre Cabin is designed afoot the industry renowned Offshore HD hull – perfected since the brand’s inception to deliver an impeccably reliable and predictable ride. With 6mm plate bottom sheets, crafted to form its sharp entry

point and 19-degree variable deadrise, Yellowfin boats cut through swell with ease to deliver impressively soft performance. The carefully crafted reverse chine deflects spray away from the boat, while its wide beam enhances stability. Backed by decades of boating experience and expertise with a forward-focus on worldbest design execution, Yellowfin have conceptualised a sub-floor framework to deliver ultimate strength. Each boat is constructed using vertical stringers – each being 6mm thick – and 5mm horizontal ribs for maximum strength, then completed with a fully welded checker plate floor. Australia and New Zealand commercial sales manager Drew Jackson said, “Yellowfin plate boats are built

by the best for the best.” “Each model is hand crafted with over 150-hours invested into each Yellowfin package for the utmost quality and design excellence,” Drew said. “We are proud of what goes into our boats and what comes out of the factory, as there’s nothing like a Yellowfin – we are innovative and reliable, with a wide range of products to meet the needs of every offshore application.” “Yellowfin plate boats come standard with all the essentials for stressfree straightforward boating and are available with an array of additional options for easy customisation to build that perfect boat.” The 7600 Centre Cabin is built standard with a long list of sought-after features, including trim tabs, self-draining floor, scuppers, hydraulic steering, a live bait

tank, strike chairs with storage boxes and more. Optional extras include, but are not limited to, a bait and fishing station, dive ladder, LED lights, drum winch, sound system and speakers and deck wash. Thanks to the Platinum Pack, optioning up with all the bells and whistles at an affordable price has never been easier. Featuring a whopping maximum horsepower rating of 300, a person capacity of seven, 320-litre fuel tank and 6mm marine-grade plate sides, the 7600 Centre Cabin is a force to be reckoned with. Standing as the largest of six Centre Cabin models within the Yellowfin range, with the smallest at 5.8m, the line-up is designed to meet the needs of every boater and every lifestyle.

The Yellowfin 7000 Centre Cabin is said to be a force to be reckoned with for all offshore applications. A favourite in the Yellowfin line up, it is heralded as the perfect all-rounder with its 360-degree fishability and spacious cabin area. Page 72 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Commonly known for its game-changing blue-water fishing application, the Centre Cabin has also been seen traversing the Australian landscape as a comfortable overnighter on long-haul trips due to its vast storage capacity and cabin area. Plus, a trusted vessel to hit up some of the world’s most spectacular dive spots, right here in Australia. The Centre Cabin holds stature as one of seven different model configurations within the Yellowfin line-up, offered alongside the Southerner Hard Top Cabin, Hard Top Cabin, Folding Hard Top, Cabin, Centre Console and Rear Console. “We are committed to delivering a world-class plate boat for all offshore boaters with finetuned designs across all layouts,” Drew said. “Whatever the adventure, you can rest assured that you have an offshore beast with Yellowfin.” Available as a fully configured boat, motor and trailer package, built directly from the Gold Coast factory, buying a plate boat has never been easier. With a carefully selected network of Yellowfin dealers located across the country, all Australian’s can experience the Yellowfin plate boat difference. Visit yellowfinplate boats.com.au to find your perfect offshore plate boat and contact your local dealer to become part of the Yellowfin force today.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

BOATING & marine The all-new Mercury V10 Verado outboard.

The V10’s all-new gearcase, built to optimise performance.

Mercury Marine introduces industry’s first V10 outboards

ERCURY Marine recently introduced the industry’s first ever V10 outboard with its launch of the all-new 5.7 litre 350 and 400hp Verado outboard engines. The new V10 engines are the quietest and smoothest in their class, running 45 percent quieter than a leading competitor at cruise. In addition to noise vibration harshness, the new Verados are compatible with the latest Mercury SmartCraft technologies. Mercury Marine president Chris Drees said, “The all-new Mercury V10 Verado outboards are exactly what boaters have been asking for in a 350 and 400hp platform.” “They are powerful, smooth and quiet. “They have many of the same fuel efficiency enhancing features that are synonymous with our high-horsepower line-up. “They also deliver the same kind of premium boating experience that has made Verado outboards legendary.” The V10 Verado outwww.bnbfishing.com.au

boards leverage many of the same market-leading features and technologies boaters love about the company’s popular V12, V8 and V6 platforms. The new V10 includes premium refinements and versatility for a wide range of applications, from large saltwater centre consoles to single-engine freshwater fishing boats to pontoons and smaller centre consoles. Weighing only 316kg and with the same industry leading 26” mount spacing as the V8 outboards, the V10 engines maximise compatibility with current boat designs. This lightweight compact design makes them perfect for multi-engine applications or repowering vessels. Mercury Australia and New Zealand will introduce the new V10 Verado in the region from April 2023. Naturally aspirated 5.7 litre V10 engine The new platform features the outboard industry’s first V10 naturally aspirated powerhead. It leverages class-leading 5.7 litre displacement

and a performance-inspired quad-cam design to propel boats ahead with exceptional speed and acceleration. A class-leading 150amp alternator swiftly charges onboard batteries and intelligently supports the boat’s electrical system. All new gearcase The platform’s all-new hydrodynamic gearcase is engineered to improve performance and durability across multiple applications while also maximising fuel efficiency. Mercury engineers designed the all-new Revolution X propeller to perfectly match the V10 Verado in every way. Larger diameter and wider blades combined with the deep ratio of the new gearcase provide excellent handling, thrilling acceleration and high efficiency from low speed all the way to wide-open throttle. Efficient all-round performance Calibrated to deliver full performance on regular unleaded fuel – 91 RON – these outboards also feature efficiency enhancing technologies,

a closed-loop fuel system and advanced range optimisation. Intuitive features and advanced technologies Adaptive speed control maintains engine revs per minute despite changes in load or conditions, making climbing large swells easier and cruising at low speeds smoother. Transient spark technology electronically adjusts spark timing to optimise low-end power. The V10 engines will also be compatible with a new Mercury electric steering system for multi-outboard vessels, set to be introduced in April 2023. The new system will offer enhanced steering responsiveness, dramatically simplified rigging and a more than 50 percent reduction in energy consumption. The new Verados will be offered with an optional dual-mode 48V/12V alternator to seamlessly pair with Navico Group’s Fathom e-Power System – an integrated lithium-ion auxiliary power management system – providing boaters the opportunity

to eliminate an onboard generator system. Mercury Marine vice president of product development and engineering Tim Reid said, “We challenged our engineers to improve acceleration and overall performance with the new V10 Verado outboards, while also making them quieter and lighter than competitors’ outboards in this horsepower range.” “Once again they exceeded expectations while also incorporating technologies that make boat operation and maintenance intuitively simple.” The development of the V10 Verado outboards is a product of Mercury’s continued commitment to invest heavily in research, development and production capacity to keep up with customer demand. To that end, the company has invested $2 billion since 2008 and its manufacturing footprint has expanded to more than 275,000sq m. For more information on the all-new Mercury V10 Verados, visit mer curymarine.com/en/au/

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 73

BOATING & marine With practice, boat trailering including launch and retrieval can become second nature.

After a cracking day out on the water, all boaties hope to have a seamless process when bringing their vessel in.

Tips from Move Boat Trailers

n Part 5.2: Expert advice on retrieving your trailer from a boat ramp

OVE Boat Trailers shines a light on boat retrieval as part of its newly released Trailer Tips series, set to simplify common trailering practices and help more people enter into boating. Following on from its last segment – Launching your trailer – Move Boat Trailers expert Adam Crossley drills down on his top tips with boat retrieval. After a cracking day out on the water, all boaties hope to have a seamless process when bringing their vessel in. While many factors can cause challenges – including wind and tides – practice and understanding a few clear tricks can make for a more stress-free and smooth experience. As with every boat trailering experience, the most important first step is ensuring your trailer is in sound condition, is the right fit

and design for your boat – such as roller versus skid – and is set up with the essentials. As an example, a catch and release system if boating solo and a high-quality lighting loom. Mastered following decades of marine excellence and design perfecting, Move Boat Trailers provides a strong, reliable and steadfast trailer to every new and old boater Australia-wide. Offering a wider range of trailers, MBT serves as the best option for aluminium, plate and fibreglass boats. Designed from aluminium, Move trailers triple the lifespan of steel and are lightweight, manoeuvrable and resilient to rust. The I-beam frame guarantees water runoff to prevent increased haul-weight and the retention of stagnant water in the mechanism. Australian made and

Page 74 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

standard with a wide range of options, MBT aspires to make any onroad experience with a watercraft as safe when driving on land as it should be on the water. The boat ramp tends to be a high-traffic area, bustling with like-minded boaters keen to get in or out of the water. If the boat ramp process is performed effectively, it can make for an extremely seamless flow – which is what everyone wants. Ensuring everything is performed effectively and efficiently will mean less time at the ramp and more time on the water for every ramp user. There are some important boat ramp etiquettes that all marine-craft users should be aware of. Know the rules of the ramp Knowing the rules of the ramp will prevent damage to the ramp,

your vessel and vehicle. Rules include restricted hours of use and maximum size of vessel due to water depths. Never load or unload your boat on the ramp Never prepare the boat for launching on the ramp, regardless of the number of boats waiting to use it. It is good practice to prepare off the ramp, even when there is no one waiting. Preparing the boat and trailer involves a wide range of tasks, including removing covers, removing trailer straps, turning on the battery switch – having checked the battery is fully charged before leaving home – trimming the engine up, fitting the bungs, priming your motor for a quick start, rigging bow lines, fitting fenders, putting the aerials up, putting your personal belongings in the boat and more.

Most ramps have a preparation area set aside exclusively for this purpose and some are even sign-posted accordingly. Keep your boat to the side During the process of launching and retrieving your boat, be mindful of where your boat is positioned or parked. Whether you are alone or with others, while launching and retrieving, make sure your boat is pulled to the side and out of the way of others. When approaching or departing the ramp from either vehicle or vessel, keep an eye on others to reduce damage to any boats or people. Don’t jump the queue During busy periods such as weekends, you may arrive at the boat ramp to find a lineup of boats waiting to launch. Be respectful of oth-

* continued P75

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BOATING & marine

Tips from Move Boat Trailers on retrieving your trailer

* from P74

ers by not pushing in or jumping the cue – simply wait your turn and everyone should walk away happy. Optional extras including catch and release systems, trailer walkways and more allow the MBT range to be customised to each Australian’s needs. With a wide range of marine industry expert dealers located country-wide, Move trailers are always within close reach. To find out more about the MBT range or if you’re still stuck with boat retrieval after reading the following tips, contact your local MBT dealer to discuss any questions. Before diving into boat retrieval, it is important to first cover some important boat ramp etiquette. Boat ramp etiquette when retrieving your boat When it comes to retrieving your boat, this is accomplished in the opposite way to how you launched it. Below are some steps that will help you get your vessel out of the water and ready to take home. Be prepared If berthing, organise your berthing lines and fenders prior to approaching the dock. If you have another person with you who will be driving the vehicle and trailer, let them hop out and back the vehicle with trailer www.bnbfishing.com.au

down the ramp. You can stay with the boat at the pontoon or alternatively, idle in the area until the trailer is in the water. Don’t leave your boat tied up to the jetty or pontoon for more than 10 minutes. Many experienced boaters will drive their boats on and off the trailer – we will cover this later, though this is discouraged by some local councils. However, inexperienced boaters and others launching and retrieving single-handed may need to tie-up to the pontoon, to allow for car trailer retrieval and boat ramp preparation. Wait for the trailer to get into the water If accompanied, the vehicle driver will need to back the trailer far enough into the water so that you can pull the boat on. If you are still in the boat, you can signal to the driver to let them know that they are far enough in. In general, this will be the same depth as when you launched the boat. The tires of your trailer should be partially submerged and the back of the trailer should be submerged. The driver should then put the vehicle into park or neutral with the handbrake on. They can leave the vehicle running, as they’ll need to drive away as soon as the boat is on the trailer.

Pulling the boat up onto the trailer If manually loading the boat, remember to raise the motor, pull the boat around to the back of the trailer, connect the winch cable and hook it up to the boat. While holding strain on the painter – rope – wind the winch, ensuring that the boat is pulling up onto the trailer straight. If someone is with you and confident enough to operate the boat, they can motor the boat to the back of the trailer, where you can connect the winch strap. Using the motors trimmed to a gentle forward motion, they can ease the boat onto the trailer as you wind in the winch until your boat is fully on the trailer and hard against the bow roller on the winch post. Once you have accomplished that, you can attach the safety chain. Pull out of the water Once you’ve winched the boat up on the trailer, pull away from the ramp, ensuring to drive slowly and leave the ramp clear for the next person. When you have moved to the preparation bay or somewhere clear of the boat ramp and vehicle turning area, you can unpack the boat, remove bungs, attach tie down straps and ready the boat for the trip home. Alternative launch and retrieval method – powered launch Many experienced

boaters and fishos will drive or power their boats on and off the trailer. Regardless, do not feel pressured to do the same. While ensuring all practices are actioned effectively and correctly, you should also be as efficient as possible, taking into consideration other boat ramp users. Follow the same retrieval process – be prepared before arriving at the boat ramp. Tie the boat up to the pontoon, back the trailer down the boat ramp to the correct depth – remembering this may need to be slightly deeper when driving on. Solo retrieval Make sure your boat and trailer have the correct catch and release fitted. Angle your boat toward the trailer and slowly drive onto it, trimming the motor as you approach. Using the motor, drive the boat up onto the trailer, engaging the catch and release system. Turn the motor off and trim the engine, climb out of the boat, hook the winch strap to the boat and connect the safety chain. Accompanied retrieval Angle your boat toward the trailer and slowly drive onto it, trimming the motor as you approach. Using the motor, drive the boat up onto the trailer. As you reach the bow

roller, the vehicle driver will attach the winch strap and safety chain – keep the motor in forward gear until this is done. Once the vehicle driver indicates you are secure, turn off the motor and trim up the engine. In many cases, the boat ramp is a ‘no wake’ zone, so you cannot power your engine to full throttle. Approaching your trailer at high speeds is also incredibly dangerous and could result in overshooting, causing damage to the boat or tow vehicle. Take it slow. If it takes more than one attempt to get onto the trailer, that’s okay. You want to keep you and your equipment safe. Most importantly, with practice, boat trailering including launch and retrieval can become second nature. The boating lifestyle is worth investing the time into and honing your trailer techniques will reap rewards by delivering a lifetime of adventures and memories with loved ones. As one of the most accessible and year-round leisure activities in the country, the great escape with boating is at your fingertips. Contact your local MBT dealer at moveb o a t t r a i l e r s. c o m. a u / Dealers.aspx and start hitting the road with a safe, reliable and sturdy trailer beneath your pride and joy boat.

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 75

HUNTING & archery

The decline of the greater bilby population can be largely attributed to feral cats. Control of the feline predators is chiefly undertaken by volunteer shooters from the recreational sector.

Facts about feral felines

Graham’s ATN night-vision scope gives an advantage over standard optics for nocturnal predator management.

Mid-winter doesn’t keep volunteer shooters from our appointed rounds of cat control. Roxbee with a typical-coloured female from Queensland’s Brigalow Belt. Another breeder removed with the aid of thermal night-vision equipment. Page 76 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

HAT feral cats are an environmental disaster in Australia’s fragile ecosystems is irrefutable. Even animal rights organisations – including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals – recognise the destruction wrought by the introduced felis catus roaming the bush. For as long as I’ve been a shooter – more than 45 years – I’ve hunted cats with singular focus, using all the firearms at my disposal, along with traps where shooting is not possible. Why do I have a passion for removing cats from the Aussie bush? Since their incursion into Australia, cats have spread throughout the continent, preying on our unique wildlife, which has not evolved to cope with such a capable predatory species. Much of our fauna is vulnerable to over-predation from cats, whose cosmopolitan diet includes birds, mammals,

Hunting by NEIL SCHULTZ

amphibians, reptiles and even insects during tough times. Science has proven cats to be complicit in the extinction of no fewer than 25 native mammal species and are placing a further 125 or so under threat. If we examine impacts of predation alone, the statistics are frightening. Findings of research conducted by various agencies have been collated by the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, giving as accurate a picture of the situation as possible. Annually, feral cats kill in excess of two billion native vertebrates. Yes – ‘billion’, with a ‘b’. Broken down to daily totals, we are losing a quarter of a million frogs, 1.2 million birds, 1.9 million reptiles and

a staggering 3.2 million mammals – every day of the year. Chunked down even further, that equates to 4500 animals every minute, around the clock. Take a moment to digest those numbers and you’ll understand why so many concerned hunters place feral cats at the top of their most wanted list. We have – and sadly had – some of the most endearing little mammals imaginable living in our breathtaking land. Some of those already lost to the ravages of feral cats and foxes include pig-footed bandicoots, lesser bilbies, the Nullarbor dwarf bettong, broad-faced potoroo, crescent nail-tailed wallaby and several species of rabbit-rat, hopping mice and rat kangaroos. Others such as the

* continued P77

www.bnbfishing.com. au

HUNTING & archery

Frightening facts about feral feline impacts * from P76

greater stick-nest rat and the banded hare-wallaby were wiped out on the mainland, only surviving in satellite populations on isolated islands where cats weren’t present. Though we hear arguments from cat fanciers that the ‘cuddly’ objects of their affections have been wrongly accused, the evidence is substantial. Case in point, the banded hare-wallaby only managed to survive reintroduction attempts on islands off the Western Australian coast after all cats were removed. Similar attempts on the mainland of small mammals typically fail in any areas where feral cats are present. Disease vector As if killing two billion native animals annually wasn’t damaging enough, that’s not the full extent of the mortality being visited upon our wildlife by cats. Feral cats scatter a deadly parasite toxoplasma gondii, which causes a disease known as toxoplasmosis – a very common but variable disease. Cats are essential to the life cycle of the parasite, but it can infect almost any warm-blooded animal, including birds and humans. During a one-week period, a single cat can shed ten million t gondii oocysts into the environment. These cysts will remain viable in the soil for up to 18 months. Unfortunately, most native marsupials are www.bnbfishing.com.au

particularly vulnerable to toxoplasmosis. Fatalities from the disease are known in numerous marsupials, including wombats, koalas, pademelons, Bennett’s and tammar wallabies, most bandicoots and many small carnivore species. Though the parasite can infect most warm-blooded animals, it must pass through a cat to reproduce. Remove the cats and the parasite will disappear. But wait, there’s more! Feral cats also host and transmit another parasite that goes by the tongue twisting label of sarcosporidiosis. This organism can enter muscle tissue, causing swelling, weakness and fever. In the bloodstream, it leads to acute lesions, haemorrhages and necrosis. Death follows due to malnourishment and dehydration. Control Various state and federal agencies undertake baiting programs aimed specifically at feral cat control with varying success. As an alternative to 1080, feline-specific ‘Curiosity’ bait has been developed with government funding. This bait consists of a small meat-based sausage containing a hard pellet of para-aminopropiophenone – known as PAPP – which dissolves in the cats’ stomach, resulting in a quick humane death. Trapping with cage traps or soft-jawed leg

hold traps is time and labour intensive and only effective in small areas or semi-urban locations where shooting is not an option. Shooting is the only 100 percent species-specific method of control that is currently available. As cats in the wild are largely nocturnal, hunting at night is far more successful than trying to stalk them during daylight hours. Spotlighting is used by a significant portion of the recreational hunting community with good results. So often a pair of yellow or blue eyes at ground level draws the hunter’s attention to the presence of a feral cat. Purely to make cat control more effective, I’ve mounted a thermal scope on my dedicated cat rifle – a light-weight Ruger .223 bolt gun that is superbly accurate. Thermal gear may not be within everyone’s budget, but it has made locating and locking onto feline targets at night

a very quick process. As no spotlight is required, the cats go about their hunting, unaware they are being observed. The evergreen little .223 is a very effective cartridge for feral feline control and is carried by all of the hunters with whom I share a camp in the bush. Whenever asked about the best cartridge for cats, my usual reply is, “Whatever you have in your hands.” There is not a rifle in my gun safe that hasn’t been pressed into service for whittling down the feral cat population on at least a few occasions. During the withering heat of inland Queensland summers, we habitually sit beside dams at dusk, knowing that pigs will habitually come in for a drink around that time. Far too often cats wander in, not for a drink, but to hunt the seed-eating birds that must come to water at the end of each day. On every occasion, the

cat is dispatched, even if it means the shot may scare away approaching porkers. Is it worth expending our time as recreational hunters on reducing the feral cat scourge? Let’s look at the advantages. This activity is undertaken every weekend by hunters somewhere around rural Australia. There is no cost to the taxpayer as it is all voluntary. Shooting is species specific, with no impact on native predators or scavengers – a concerning risk with baiting. There are 640,000 recreational hunters in Australia. If the majority of us took out only two cats per year, there would be a million less cats in the environment. With each cat taking a conservatively estimated 750 vertebrates per year, the total annual reduction in native animal loss would be approaching 750 million. Yes, I think that is worth the effort.

A large pale-coloured feral cat was taken in the New England high country with the wickedly accurate Lithgow LA102 in 308. Overkill? No! Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 77

Wyaralong Dam pest fish comp wrap up

A Senior Biggest Tilapia winner Jason Terelinck and his 2.66kg catch.

Junior Biggest Tilapia winner Joshua Buys was happy with his 2.15kg fish.

FA N TA S T I C day was had at the Wyaralong Dam Carp and Tilapia Eradication Competition, seeing 280 competitors, with a large number of families and kids. It was great to see so many kids getting involved in the fishing, catching and learning about pest fish. Huge numbers of fish were caught, with 1174 noxious fish being removed – 244 carp and 930 tilapia – the biggest tilapia weighed 2.855kg and the largest carp was 4.305kg. We were lucky to have Tim Lucas from Fisheries Queensland freshwater division do a presentation on noxious fish and teach everyone easy ways of identifying pest fish. Charlie from Freshwater Fishing and Stocking Association of Queensland Inc, with the education live fish trailer and Fisheries patrol officers Paul and Bob, talked to people about freshwater fishing rules. And the Greenbank Scout Group come out for a fish – to help them

towards earning their sustainability badge – and to assist with drawing lucky door prizes. A massive shout out to all our sponsors for their support and to the volunteers who helped on the day – without this help, the competition can’t run. All profits raised go to purchasing native fingerlings to re-stock Mary River cod and Australian bass fingerlings in Wyaralong Dam and the Logan Albert Rivers catchments. Here’s to a successful competition in 2023. Results – Junior Most Carp – Maxim Baruksopulo and Cooper Jackson tied with two each. Biggest Carp – Archie Cook with 2.935kg

Most Tilapia – Aston Holland with 42 Biggest Tilapia – Joshua Buys with 2.15kg Results – Teen Most Carp – Cooper Rennick with four Biggest Carp – Kayos Hapeta-Williams with 3.29kg Most Tilapia – Kayos Hapeta-Williams with 39 Biggest Tilapia – Garrett Stanton with 2.855kg Results – Fly Most Carp – Peter Herbst with six Biggest Carp – Peter Herbst with 2.065kg Results – Senior Most Carp – Tiger Zhang with 58 Biggest Carp – Ji Chunhud with 4.305kg Most Tilapia – Jason Williams with 118 Biggest Tilapia – Jason Terelinck with 2.66kg

Teen Biggest Carp winner Kayos Hapeta-Williams with a 3.29kg brute.

DAFF released National Carp Control Plan

HE Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has publicly released the National Carp Control Plan and nine technical papers. The NCCP represents comprehensive scientific research outcomes, investigating the technical feasibility of using cyprinid herpesvirus 3 as a biological control agent for carp. One of the most wide-ranging assessments of a biological control strategy for aquatic environments ever undertaken globally, the program was

funded by the Australian Government via a Commonwealth grant agreement, with $10.37 million allocated to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation to lead this extensive body of research and analysis. As the coordinator of this rigorous scientific investigation, FRDC worked with leading Australian universities and research institutions, involving over 240 scientists and experts who delivered over thirty final research documents, underpinning the final NCCP.

Page 78 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

The delivery of the NCCP will assist governments in deciding whether to continue the program to the next stage. If governments decide to continue, the NCCP is only the first step of several important stages needed to adequately consider the release of a biological control agent. The government will need time to weigh up all the information provided in the NCCP and associated documentation, before deciding whether or not to proceed further

with the program. The NCCP and associated documentation will be reviewed by multi-jurisdictional committees, including the Environment and Invasives Committee, the National Biosecurity Committee and Agriculture Senior Officials Committee. Further enquires on next steps and review process can be directed to DAFF via carp@ag riculture.gov.au FRDC’s website provides an overview of the NCCP development and links to the key reports housed on the

DAFF website, as well as links to all final research project reports underpinning the development of the plan, and a history of how this research has evolved, plus a broad range of questions and answers that have arisen throughout the course of the research. You will also find some supporting material that summarises the breadth of the NCCP work over the past six years. Enquiries regarding the research can be directed to carpscience@ frdc.com.au www.bnbfishing.com. au

Cik Saba took a 101cm barramundi on a Jackall Hank Tune Squirrel 79.

Taken on a Jackall Hank Tune Squirrell 79, Andy Booton was happy with a 103cm barramundi.

Scouting barramundi in summer I T has been a tumultuous start to the barramundi season on Lake Monduran, with inconsistent weather through spring making the fishing quite tough generally. Now, in the midst of the hottest months of the year, the barra start to spread out through deeper areas of the dam. For the average angler, this can make them very hard to find. Like any wild animal, barramundi are heavily influenced by the environment they live in. Being a northern species, they are accustomed to a warmer temperature. However, the landlocked nature of a lake enables the water temperature to get higher than that of a tidal waterway they have adapted to live in. As the water temperature surpasses that of

Lake Monduran

by SAM ROWLEY

what they are comfortable with, they will naturally seek out a cooler and more stable alternative. This in a way is the same reason you will often find barramundi sitting very close to the bottom, particularly as the surface water temperature rises and falls quickly. Barra are always seeking stability and the deeper in the water column they go, the more stable the temperature. The following areas are great places to start looking throughout summer, particularly as the water temperature surpasses about 29C in the morning. Treetops Any treetop in deep water can be a great

place to start looking, particularly early morning in summer. Generally, I’ve had luck fishing trees in the 6-12m range on the edge of creek beds. You can use any crank bait or soft plastic for

this scenario, but the key is to ensure your lure is getting down to the depth of the fish. A good fish finder – such as the Humminbird Helix 12, which I use – is essential to knowing where and how deep these fish are sitting. Shallow flats close to deep water Though a bit harder to find now that the lake is over 100 percent capaci-

ty, these spots allow fish to move in quickly to feed and then retreat easily back to deeper water. A good place to start looking for these areas is on the edge of the old creeks. The main basin It’s no secret to Lake Monduran regulars that plenty of fish gather through the main basin in summer.

* continued P80

Lake Monduran Fishing Charters What’s the mission? Catch more fish!

0432 420 034 themondyman.com Matt Huntley captured a 109cm barramundi on a 120 Molix Shad.

www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 79

We had the pleasure of watching Paul catch 43 fish in a single spot slightly upstream from the registration weigh-in point.

The total of fish caught for the day was 239, weighing a total of 140.5kg.

The event had 233 competitors, comprising 102 juniors and 141 seniors.

OFFSA Carp Busting event

FTER postponing our October scheduled event due to weather, it was all systems go on November 12 for the Oakey Freshwater Fish Stocking Association Carp Buster. We had 233 competitors, comprising 102 juniors under 15 and 141 seniors. People registered and then fished anywhere local they wanted for

the morning. Total fish caught for the day were 239, weighing a total of 140.5kg. Heaviest fish was 3.6kg and our smallest only 62g. The most fish caught by a single competitor numbered 43. We had the pleasure of watching Paul catch these fish in a single spot slightly upstream from our registration weigh-in point.

It was magical to watch him sleigh the noxious pests one after the other. A total of 28 prizes were handed out on the day. All prizes for the event were donated by local businesses, meaning all money raised goes directly into purchasing fingerlings. Rodney Christensen Secretary OFFSA

Scouting barra in summer

Lake Monduran

* from P79

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They can be caught at all depths, with the key being to once again get your lure regularly down to the depth of the fish. Heavily weighted soft plastics are the best option when casting but can also be very effective trolling, as can the wellknown big deep-diving hard-bodied lures. A good sounder can help identify the depth and the position of fish. If throwing, soft plastics allow your lure to sink before you retrieve and alternate speeds until you work out a pattern. Fish can be found in any deep water during

the hottest parts of summer and can be targeted wherever you find them. Though it is still possible to find fish in the shallow bays and points over the warm months, particularly early and late in the day. Look for areas with

lily pads, weed and grass that may provide the fish some refuge and feeding opportunities. As always, having a quality sounder and electric motor is very important when locating and targeting these fish effectively.

Micah Peters scored his 108cm barramundi on a 6” shad. www.bnbfishing.com. au

Size change request by all recreational anglers

ITH the start of the new year, it’s looking good for anglers who fish rivers and streams. With the storages full to overflowing, it’s primed for a least the next three to five years. The rivers are fishing well, on lures or bait – the turnaround being good since the drought ceased. As I write, the information received about cod, yellowbelly, silver perch and catfish has been good, with small fish hitting anything that moves. I’ve been shown photos of daily catches and little plump fish were the talk of the day. This month has been the first time to date that the actual storage is at 100 percent, as prior to this, water had not

Glenlyon Dam by BRIAN DARE

stopped running over the spillway since last December. No doubt, the wet is not over by a long shot, with the cyclone season only a couple of weeks away. If you’re heading out our way with kayaks or canoes, head to the local streams. Give us a call on (02) 6737 5266 to get an update on our rivers and creeks. Those of you who put time in around our neck of the woods will see some major changes to those holes of water you’ve fished previously. With this are also crossings that have had major rock formation movements, which will

hamper your access to some riverbank points. Weed beds around the dams are starting to build up at boat ramp locations, which brings the problem of propellor failure and having to clear weed to get back out to clean water. To those of you who have electric motors, I suggest using them and avoiding the worry of inlet water blockages to fuel-driven engines. If the above is not an option for you, I would use oars or paddles, with the boat motor tilted up during this process. Shrimp for bait fishing have at last started to turn up around the regional water storages.

There was a lack of these, along with the blue claw, in local yabby locations and small dams, which are not fenced off. These dams as I have mentioned before are used by local shire councils for water-truck spraying of road gravel, setting up the road-base for tarring. Road conditions out west are still poor in the view of most locals, as potholes galore are still around. An area of roads on the north coast has had the potholes marked with white paint, being a bit of a warning to those who drive along these. You will read a section next that will need your input and has been a long-time request by anglers. This is all about silver perch and golden perch

having the minimum size limit lifted to 35cm across the board. It takes about 14 months for these fish to grow to 30cm in length after being stocked as fingerlings in water storages, given the amount of food within the overgrown fish tanks we target fish in! With rivers, it takes longer, as food supplies for stocked or bred fry or fingerlings to grow to an edible fillet-size, even after good rains, 35cm is a better size. What to do to request a size change I ask all freshwater recreational anglers to use the enclosed letter – or QR code which will take you to a digital copy – and email it to the Minister for Agriculture Mr Mark Furner. * continued P82

GLENLYON DAM TOURIST PARK A great place to fish! • Powered and Unpowered Sites • No Domestic Pets or Generators • Kiosk • Ice • Gas • Petrol • Amenities Blocks and Laundry • BBQs • Hire Boats • EFTPOS • Fishing Permits

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glenlyondamtouristpark.com.au Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 81

Requesting a size change letter to the Minister [Your name] [Your street address] [Your suburb, state and postcode] [Your phone number] [Your email address] [The date] The Hon. Mr Mark Furner MP Minister for Agriculture GPO Box 46 Brisbane Qld 4001

Asking all recreational anglers to write to the Minister of Agriculture Mark Furner.

Dear Minister, As a concerned freshwater recreational angler, I am writing to request that the following two freshwater species, silver perch and golden perch, have a minimum size limit change from 30cm up to 35cm on all water storages and river systems in Queensland. Along with this, I request that the possession for silver perch on water storages be reinstated back to five in possession and not two. And that the possession limit on all Queensland rivers for silver perch remain at two. The reason for these requested changes to take place is because we do not have any freshwater biologists in the field as our extension officers, with whom we would be able to put forward the requests as above. Kind regards, [Your signature] [Your name in full]

DAM LEVELS CURRENT AS OF 14/12/2022

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

PERCENTAGE AUG 100 65 101 100 100 100 68 37 101 100 89 21 101 100 87 85 100 101 100 102 100 68 54 80 98 95 101 89 82 100

SEPT 100 65 102 102 100 96 67 37 101 100 89 21 101 99 86 84 100 101 100 101 100 68 53 83 98 92 101 91 82 100

OCT 100 65 101 101 100 90 65 37 100 100 88 21 101 101 85 82 101 101 100 100 101 66 52 80 97 83 101 86 82 100

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

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

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

Page 82 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

Size change request by all recreational anglers * from P81

To the copy, add the date, your name, address, phone number and postcode and email it to agriculture@min isterial.qld.gov.au The physical address is on the letter, if you prefer to post rather than email.

Note, if you don’t wish to send a copy direct, I ask that you post your signed copy to me – Brian Dare, M/S 312 Via Stanthorpe Qld 4380. With your permission, I’ll use it as a petition with all other copies received.

DAF’s new pest fish principal policy officer

’DAY, Hayden Ferguson here. I’m the newly appointed principal policy officer pest fish with the Department of Fisheries, based in Townsville. I’ve recently come over from Queensland Parks and Wildlife, where I was the operational senior ranger marine parks for the past 10 years. Prior to which, I was up in Cairns running the crocodile management team. I’ve also done placements in partnerships, technical support, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and a variety of shortterm terrestrial management positions in Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville. Growing up in South Africa, I was raised

on a freshwater fish hatchery, and worked in parks for 14 years in both terrestrial and marine protected area management prior to moving to Queensland with my young family in 2007. I’m a very keen artificial lure angler and collector, amateur native fish aquarist and appreciator of wild places that fish well. I am very much looking forward to working with all of you and tackling the pest fish issue. My contacts details are hayden.ferguson@ daf.qld.gov.au No phone number at time of going to print, but I will update shortly. Hayden Ferguson DAF Principal Policy Officer Pest Fish www.bnbfishing.com. au

Caught this beauty of a bass up the back of a saltwater creek. Sight casted from a school of about seven sitting on a snag. Used a 1-4kg rod and 1000 size reel. Dom G

Wal caught a nice tailor when fishing for flathead on a Gold Coast Estuary Charter. Clint Ansell

Remy was very happy with the Guardian Angels Casino Night prize. Steve Taylor

Aiden Whiteman heaved in this pig of a snapper in early December. Chris Rippon

Millie was stoked to catch some decent flathead on the ever-reliable Ecogear ZX40 lure. Clint Ansell

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

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 83

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 85

PERFORMANCE

X RELIABILITY +

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

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

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

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

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

Page 86 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023

www.bnbfishing.com. au

525 Prowler

520 R

595 Cruiser

625 Sport Fish

Repower CASH FOR LATE for Less! MODEL BOATS!

CALL OUR BUSINESS MANAGER BEN EWEN FOR ALL BOATING FINANCE NEEDS: 0411 745 025

Insure with YMI for your peace of mind!

(HULL YEAR 2000 AND ONWARDS ONLY)

VALUATIONS: PAUL: 0422 391 822 or PETER: 0466 214 804

CALL NOW - (07) 3888 1727 BRUCE HWY, BURPENGARY www.BRISBANEYAMAHA.com.au www.bnbfishing.com.au

SUBSCRIBE! www.youtube.com/c/BrisbaneYamahaWeKnowBoats

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, January 2023 – Page 87

IN STOCK

520 TOP ENDER - 115HP

420 RENEGADE - 50HP

Includes: Mercury 115hp Pro Xs, painted sides, rod locker, alloy trailer

Includes: Mercury 50hp, bowmount bracket, bait tank plumbed, alloy trailer

1 ONLY SALE OFFER

IN STOCK

ROBALO R222 - 250HP

530 RENEGADE CENTRE CONSOLE - 115HP

Includes: Mercury 250hp, dual batteries, T top, coloured sides, alloy trailer

Includes: Mercury 115hp, bimini, painted sides, Lowrance sounder. hydraulic steer, alloy trailer

IN STOCK

460 RENEGADE SIDE CONSOLE - 75HP

630 FRONTIER - 225HP

Includes: Mercury 75hp, painted blue, bowmount bracket, bait tank, alloy trailer

Includes: Mercury 225hp, deck wash, ski pole, front cast deck, alloy trailer

Finance & Insurance available

* Mercury Finance terms and conditions apply. Photos for illustration purposes only.

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

BNB Fishing Mag | January 2023

Articles inside

Scouting barramundi in summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sam Rowley

Insights into boat insurance

Summer fun in Bustard Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Paul ‘Chief’ Graveson

Seventeen Seventy BNB Trophy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mick Clutterbuck