BNB Fishing Mag | July 2024 by bnbfishing

SEA JAY celebrates 35 years

495

Includes GST

July 2024 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 35, Number 7

Short snapper season

Offshore action

Winter tactics for Gold Coast

Cool water barramundi Top Moreton Bay options How to catch your own bait

ISSN 1832-4517

07 Proudly produced and printed in Australia

9 771832 451001

Finesse fishing with plastics

Estuary • Offshore • Freshwater • 4WD • Camping • Touring www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 1

Page 2 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 3

FLOATS LIKE A BUTTERFLY, FIERCE LIKE THE SEA

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW DF75, THE PERFECT BLEND OF POWER AND PRACTICALITY, TAKING BOATING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Page 4 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

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From the Bush ‘n Beach Fishing editor

O much for complaining continually about the

heat! Winter has arrived with a vengeance. I don’t think I’ve worn a jumper so much in a very long time. A welcome change is that the more stable winter weather patterns have also arrived – great news. If you have managed to get out on the water or even visit a local waterfront area, I’m sure you’ve seen some glassed-out conditions. These conditions don’t guarantee the fishing is going to fire, though it can make your time on the water more enjoyable. The other positive about the change in air temperature is it has cooled the water, which makes the winter species more active. Though snapper can be caught all year round, now is the peak time to catch them. One of the main reasons for this is that it’s their breeding season, so they’re more active and hence hungrier. While this makes

them easier to catch, it can impact on their breeding. Fishing closure Currently, we have a closed season for snapper between July 15 and August 15, when snapper are a no-take species. That means if you catch one, you need to return it to the water unharmed. Pearl perch are also a no-take species during this time. However, the more I consider and learn about pearlies, the more I believe that part of the reason for them being included in the closure is to stop people targeting pearl pearch and getting snapper as bycatch. I understand the thinking behind it, but I’m not sure pearly stocks are in that much trouble. In this edition, I’ve outlined the Fisheries Queensland corporate line as to why these species should be protected, and there are some valid reasons. However, the more I delve into the science and research practices,

Grinners are becoming a real problem in Moreton Bay. www.bnbfishing.com.au

the more questions I have. This applies not only to snapper and pearl perch, but also spanish mackerel, which will be addressed in a coming issue. Grinners Coincidently, it’s interesting – or more accurately, frustrating – to see the number of grinners that are being caught in and around Moreton Bay. These fish have boomed in recent years, so the question needs to be asked… is there a correlation between ring netting spotted mackerel in the bay and grinner numbers? I definitely think so. Unfortunately, grinners are in plague proportions at the moment. I’ve caught them slow trolling for snapper, trolling for mackerel, on squid jigs, on bait, and they even attack whiting when hooked. They are becoming a real problem in Moreton Bay and the issue needs to be addressed – Fisheries Queensland? I’ve chatted to several people about this species and it seems to be a widespread problem, not only through Moreton Bay but even offshore. I’m also seeing reports of these fish being caught land based. A plan needs to be implemented sooner rather than later so that grinners don’t become a shark-like debacle. I’ll leave this for another edition because I have touched on it quite a lot recently. Sea Jay Boats It was awesome to see Australian-based boatbuilding company Sea Jay Boats tick over 35 years of operation – see the full story on page 58 in this issue.

The Glass family and their team have developed a brand that is not only top quality but designed for fishos. These boats are built to last. Testament to this is that my late father bought a Sea Jay 4.0m Bream well over 20 years ago and it is still

going strong to this day. Now owned by my good friend Warric ‘Wazza’ Johnston, the ‘jack whisperer’, the boat has seen plenty of fish come over its sides in that time. Keep up the good work crew! Ben Collins

OUR COVER SEA JAY celebrates 35 years

495

Includes GST

July 2024 Print Post Approved PP100001534 Volume 35, Number 7

Short snapper season

Offshore action

Winter tactics for Gold Coast

Cool water barramundi Top Moreton Bay options How to catch your own bait

ISSN 1832-4517

07 Proudly produced and printed in Australia

9 771832 451001

Finesse fishing with plastics

Estuary • Offshore • Freshwater • 4WD • Camping • Touring www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 1

JOANNE MARTIN landed this solid longtail tuna in the recent 2024 Women’s Fishing Classic. Check out some of Joanne’s other catches in Readers’ Forum on page 83.

NEXT EDITION: August edition will be on sale in newsagents from July 26. JULY SUBSCRIPTION OFFER: See the subscription form on page 84 to subscribe this month and to go in the draw to win an Atomic prize pack from Frogley’s Offshore valued at $350.00 RRP. MAY PRIZE WINNER: Congratulations to P. McGettigan, Burleigh Heads who will receive a pair of Mako sunglasses, Mako cap and Mako sunglasses’ strap valued at $351.45 RRP. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 5

July 2024 contents Hot action on a mix of species. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Keith Stratford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P8 Tips for fishing Moreton Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . P10 Tide Times - Brisbane Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P12 Finesse fishing with plastics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Justin Willmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P14 Fishing Events Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P15 Bringing oyster reefs back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Robbie Porter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P18 Targeting mighty Moreton Bay mulloway. . . . . . . . . . . . . by Lachie Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P20 Tackling bay winter species. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mark Templeton . . . . . . . . . . . P24 Finding fish for kids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Chris Raimondi . . . . . . . . . . . . . P26 Great Sandy Marine Park Zoning Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P27 Cracking shallow inshore reefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Guy Lambert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P28 Guide to catching your own bait. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Sean Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . P32 Cape Moreton and Caloundra wide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Mick Clutterbuck . . . . . . . . . . . P35 Six-knot vessel speed limit extended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P36 A world of fishing hurt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Phill Kliese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P38 Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P40 Reliability with Penn Spinfisher VII. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P46 Snapper and pearl perch closure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Ben Collins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P48 Knobbies and pearlies fire up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Darren Rama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P50 Winter tactics for Broadwater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Clint Ansell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P51 Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic 2024. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P53 Ideal time and conditions for shallow reef jewfish . . . . by Gavin Dobson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P54 Learning how to target luderick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Neil Schultz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P55 Jewies, tailor, bream and muddies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Brett Hyde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P56 Sea Jay celebrates 35 years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P58 Mercury launches next generation of Avator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P61 Yellowfin’s new line-up making waves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P62 Exclusive Bar Crusher colours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P63 Raymarine collaborates with ePropulsion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P64 Trading Post. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P65 Tin Can turns it on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Chris Rippon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P66 Light tackle fishing action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Tri Ton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P69 Tide Times – Waddy Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P70 Charter Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P71 Winter species fire up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by Gary Churchward . . . . . . . . . . P72 Bigger better Boyne Tannum HookUp 2024. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P73 Cool barra fishing challenge accepted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by John Boon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P74 OzFish mangrove restoration project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P76 Barra release in Top End lakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P78 Suntag moving forward after receiving grant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P79 Workshop considerations and a warmish winter. . . . . . by Brian Dare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P80 Dam Levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P81 Readers’ Forum ��P82 Subscription Form ��P84 Page 6 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

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The Team

EDITOR: Ben Collins ADVERTISING: Chantal Rimmington 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: SpotNews 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, July 2024 – Page 7

Small jewfish were in big numbers in the middle reaches of rivers.

Luke Stratford landed his personal best tailor recently.

Hot action on a mix of species

Ben Monro landed a nice grunter on a Berkley Gulp soft plastic.

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Page 8 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

ULY is a great month to be on the water around Brisbane. The action can be hot, with multiple species available. The wet start to the year had all the rivers and creeks running brown for quite a while. Yet the rain stopped and the start of winter kicked off with a bang. The rivers have cleaned up nicely, which has allowed baitfish and predators to get back into the upper reaches. This gives anglers more areas to search for preying fish, instead of being forced to fish around the mouths of rivers and creeks. Species such as threadfin salmon, jewfish, flathead, grunter, tailor and bream will all be available in the middle to upper reaches this month. Currently the rivers are full of small jewfish ranging from 30cm up to legal fish. I haven’t been able to find a legal fish yet, but there should be a few getting about. They must have had an excellent spawning period recently, as it’s not uncommon to land

Local Luring by KEITH STRATFORD

double figures of small jewies in each session. Threadfin salmon numbers are also looking promising. I’ve been sounding up some big fish in the middle reaches of the rivers and plenty of smaller fish of just legal size are getting around. Bigger threadfin can be difficult to get a bite from when they’re not feeding aggressively. They can be a little leader shy and are capable of rubbing through leaders up to 30lb in a couple of seconds. I tend to keep my leaders light, so I get the by-catch that feed in the same areas. If you can get a hook in the threadfin’s mouth, it’s possible to land a big fish. It can take a little of luck, along with some skill. Threadfin salmon are known for changing direction very quickly during the fight. Many anglers may think they’ve lost the fish, but it has simply

turned around and started to swim straight back at them. It’s very important it keep pressure on the fish at this stage, so that the hook doesn’t fall out. Grunter have made an appearance in good numbers in the middle to upper reaches too. They are one of my favourite fish to target. They fight hard and are absolutely delicious on the plate. As they are a schooling fish, once you find one, there’s a good chance there are more in the area. Flathead will turn up almost everywhere this month. The deep bends will hold some good quality fish. They are a very common by-catch when targeting bigger species such as jewfish and threadfin. Speaking of bigger fish… sharks were still causing problems upstream. On my last trip, we * continued P9

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Hot action on a mix of species * from P8

had three big bull sharks follow us back and forth between three different bends. I can’t be sure they were the same sharks, but it gives you an idea of how many big sharks are following boats around in the rivers these days. The maximum size limit on these pests definitely needs to be looked at – it’s currently illegal to target a shark over 1.5m. The bullies following my boat were bigger than the maximum size limit, which meant that if we had caught them, we would have had to release them. The mouths of the rivers have had some hot action recently and this will continue into July. Tailor were in big numbers and in excellent quality. I’ve come across some big schools in the 5055cm range around the mouth of Bribie Island. There were also many between the mouth of the Caboolture River and Bribie.

Mack tuna have been in the same areas and pushing well into the passage. I haven’t seen any longtail tuna yet, but having seen them in past years, fingers are crossed they turn up too. Though the tuna schools disappear as quickly as they turn up, particularly when there were a few boats about. It surprises me that some people still motor straight up to the school with their two-stroke outboard. Then they throw an 80g slug on a wire trace at a school that went down 20 seconds before they got there. Tuna can be very difficult to get to bite from, so a bit of finesse may be required to hook a fish. Give the wire trace a miss and keep your leader around 20-30lb and you’ll get more bites. The smallest metal slug you can cast will get many more bites than a 60-80g slug. If the fish are going down as soon as you

approach them, try sitting back and working out which way they’re travelling and feeding. You can generally work out a pattern and position your boat so that the fish will be headed in your direction. And once you hook a tuna, you then have to keep it away from the sharks. The tailor schools were a lot easier to approach – staying up and continuing to feed around the boat. Tailor aren’t everyone’s favourite fish to eat but remember, they make excellent reef bait and the frames are one of the better crab bait. That’s it from me for now. Get your jumpers and beanies out and get among some of the action that July has to offer.

Phil Benfer landed a jewfish on a soft plastic in the upper reaches of a Brisbane creek.

Mack tuna were feeding on bait schools inside Pumicestone Passage at Bribie Island.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 9

Tips for fishing Moreton Bay

W Some big tailor caught by Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club off Stradbroke Island.

A selection of the author’s favourite lures.

A double hook-up on the author’s paternoster whiting rig.

A selection of the author’s favourite tailor and whiting hooks. Page 10 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

ELL, with the colder weather coming through in May, the cooler-water species have definitely hit their straps, along with a couple of year-round favourites. So here’s a summary of a few of the popular targets in Moreton Bay and its surrounding islands. Tailor Over the past couple of years, tailor were very hit and miss in southeast Queensland, however this year has started as a beauty. The beaches along the Gold Coast have produced a number of good sessions on bait and lures, as have North and South Stradbroke islands and even Bribie Island. And there’s also been an increase in catches as far as K’gari, when the sea settled and weed dispersed. Matt Melgaard from the Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club told me their club had an awesome weekend around the full moon, with great day catches of tailor and some very big fish to 75cm at night. What I love about this club is hearing that they cut bag limits for anglers right back, with eight fish the bag for tailor. As winter progresses, the best conditions for tailor are a light swell and a westerly wind. A westerly calms the sea down and brings baitfish close to shore to seek protection. And the tailor soon follow. There were also plenty of catches throughout the bay, including the entrances, though even along bayside rock walls.

Fishing Tips by SEAN THOMPSON

Anglers who used gang pilchard and small metals off the rock walls, or trolling around bait schools or birds working in the bay, had success. When bait fishing for tailor, I love using the Tru-Turn Swivel Gang Hooks in a size 4/0. The swivels in between the hooks make hanging up so much easier than stiff hooks ganged together, and their offset shanks provide great hook-ups, as they turn upwards into the fish’s mouth when pressure is applied. While there are many lures you could use, two inexpensive metals include the gold and silver Halco Twisty in 40g and 55g for off the beach or 15-40g for off the rock walls and the Surecatch Knight, with blue my favourite colour for this lure. In terms of hard-bodies, weighted bibless lures to 42g are awesome off the beach, and you can also use weighted poppers in deep gutters with only a light swell and white water covering. Trolling wise, Rapala, Duel, RMG, Halco, Zerek Zappelin, Duo Minnow and others in blue, green and silver shades with a bit of flash on the side that dive 4-5m are great options. Winter whiting While colloquially called ‘winter’ whiting, this species can be caught throughout Moreton Bay all year round. Though they tend to move. Over the past month or so, big schools have

moved in over the shallow banks, and I’m talking in about 1.2-1.5m of water. My preferred days are those with a very light breeze and a little cloud for some protection for the fish, but don’t rule out those magic clear winter days, though occasionally they may move to water a little deeper. My general rule is, if I start catching small reef fish, I’m too deep. The same for grinners – if you catch some, move because these thieves will attack your bait and your fish! On a recent trip, I had a number of squid follow my whiting on the weedy sand flats and even managed to scoop one, so take a couple of squid jigs with you for the drift. My standard rig for winter whiting is a fluorocarbon leader of about 1m in a thin diameter line of 8lb. I also use Platypus Super 100 in 6lb, due to its thin diameter. I then have a smaller sinker, such as a 2-3 ball on the bottom and two droppers of about 1520cm and size 4 or 6 Tru-Turn hooks. The size 6 Worm Red 063 Tru-Turn hooks are a good option, as are the thinner gauge 860 in size 4. Bait wise, I use firm frozen red-dyed bloodworms – don’t buy thin black-looking worms because they are awful when defrosted. Alternatively, I use and peel smaller banana prawns I’ve caught and frozen. * continued P12

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Email: admin@wynnummarine.com.au Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 11

Tide Times AUSTRALIA EAST COAST -

ST –– BRISBANE AST BRISBANE BAR BAR BRISBANE BAR

ONG 153° LONG 153° 10ʼ 10ʼ EE gh and igh and Low Low Waters Waters

me ime

m m

Time Time

JULY JULY

m m

Time Time

m m

2024

Time Time Zone Zone –1000 –1000 AUGUST AUGUST

Time Time

m m

Time Time

m m

428 428 1.92 1.92 110 110 0.66 0.66 744 744 1.95 1.95 344 344 0.96 0.96

0451 0451 1.97 1.97 1126 1126 0.45 0.45 1803 2.26 1803 2.26 MO MO

0428 0428 1.69 1.69 1100 1100 0.64 0.64 1754 2.05 1754 2.05 TU TU

0139 0139 0.72 0.72 0700 0700 1.61 1.61 1259 0.50 1259 0.50 TH TH 1945 1945 2.41 2.41

16 16

523 523 1.87 1.87 157 157 0.60 0.60 834 834 2.10 2.10

0024 0015 0024 0.79 0.79 0015 0.94 0.94 0556 1.86 1.86 0556 0534 0534 1.65 1.65 1221 0.43 0.43 WE 1155 0.59 0.59 TU TU 1221 WE 1155 1902 2.39 2.39 1902 1848 1848 2.19 2.19

0234 0234 0.63 0.63 0800 0800 1.66 1.66 1355 0.46 0.46 FR FR 1355 2031 2031 2.46 2.46

0158 0.66 0.66 17 17 0158 0716 0716 1.68 1.68

046 0.89 0.89 046 615 1.84 1.84 615 242 0.54 0.54 242 919 2.24 2.24 919

0136 0.73 0.73 0120 0.83 0.83 0320 0.57 0.57 0247 0.53 0.53 18 0120 18 0247 33 0136 33 0320 0700 1.78 1.78 18 0635 1.66 1.66 0847 1.72 1.72 18 0810 1.80 1.80 0700 0635 0847 0810

1314 0.42 0.42 WE 1314 WE 1956 2.49 2.49 1956

142 0.80 0.80 142 704 1.82 1.82 704 324 0.49 0.49 324 002 2.36 2.36 002

0238 0.66 0.66 0238 0759 1.74 1.74 0759 1403 0.41 0.41 TH 1403 TH 2044 2.55 2.55 2044

232 0.73 0.73 232 751 1.80 1.80 751 406 0.45 0.45 406 045 2.45 2.45 045

0331 0.61 0.61 0306 0.62 0.62 0434 0.56 0.56 0416 0.34 0.34 20 0306 20 0416 55 0331 55 0434 0852 1.73 1.73 20 0822 1.76 1.76 1004 1.80 1.80 20 0948 2.01 2.01 0852 0822 1004 0948

1450 0.41 0.41 FR 1450 FR 2129 2.57 2.57 2129

320 0.67 0.67 320 837 1.80 1.80 837 446 0.42 0.42 446 126 2.52 2.52 126

0418 0.59 0.59 0418 0940 1.73 1.73 0940 1532 0.43 0.43 SA 1532 SA 2210 2.54 2.54 2210

407 0.63 0.63 407 924 1.80 1.80 924 528 0.40 0.40 528 208 2.57 2.57 208

0500 0.60 0.60 0440 0.48 0.48 0531 0.56 0.56 0537 0.26 0.26 22 0440 22 0537 77 0500 77 0531 1023 1.74 1.74 22 1002 1.87 1.87 1111 1.86 1.86 22 1122 2.16 2.16 1023 1002 1111 1122

1612 0.46 0.46 MO 1602 0.29 0.29 SU 1612 MO 1602 SU 2248 2.50 2.50 2237 2.67 2.67 2248 2237

1706 0.51 0.51 WE 1706 WE 2324 2.32 2.32 2324

453 0.60 0.60 453 011 1.81 1.81 011 610 0.39 0.39 610 251 2.59 2.59 251

0537 0.63 0.63 0537 1101 1.74 1.74 1101 1648 0.50 0.50 MO 1648 MO 2324 2.43 2.43 2324

1741 0.58 0.58 TH 1741 TH 2353 2.22 2.22 2353

541 0.58 0.58 541 100 1.81 1.81 100 654 0.41 0.41 654 335 2.59 2.59 335

0611 0.66 0.66 0608 0.41 0.41 0625 0.55 0.55 0016 2.29 2.29 24 0608 24 0016 99 0611 99 0625 1139 1.75 1.75 24 1140 1.97 1.97 1220 1.89 1.89 24 0650 0.33 0.33 1139 1140 1220 0650

11 22

16 16 17 17

1248 0.52 0.52 TH 1248 TH 1938 2.33 2.33 1938

1442 0.43 0.43 SA 1442 SA 2114 2.47 2.47 2114

0101 0101 0.81 0.81 0616 0616 1.57 1.57 1220 0.56 1220 0.56 FR FR 1913 1913 2.30 2.30

1319 0.44 0.44 SA SA 1319 2003 2003 2.45 2.45

1414 0.33 0.33 SU 1414 SU 2049 2.58 2.58 2049

0400 0.55 0.55 0215 0.72 0.72 0333 0.42 0.42 19 0215 19 0333 44 0400 19 0730 1.70 1.70 0900 1.91 1.91 0929 1.77 1.77 19 0730 0929 0900 1339 0.45 0.45 FR 1339 FR 2024 2.45 2.45 2024

1428 0.38 0.38 SA 1428 SA 2109 2.55 2.55 2109

1505 0.25 0.25 1523 0.42 0.42 MO SU 1523 MO 1505 SU 2132 2.66 2.66 2151 2.46 2.46 2151 2132

1600 0.43 0.43 MO 1600 MO 2225 2.43 2.43 2225

1554 0.21 0.21 TU 1554 TU 2215 2.68 2.68 2215

0354 0.54 0.54 0505 0.56 0.56 0458 0.29 0.29 21 0354 21 0458 21 66 0505 0913 1.81 1.81 1038 1.84 1.84 21 1035 2.09 2.09 0913 1038 1035 1515 0.32 0.32 SU 1515 SU 2153 2.63 2.63 2153

1633 0.46 0.46 WE 1642 0.22 0.22 TU 1633 WE 1642 TU 2255 2.38 2.38 2256 2.63 2.63 2255 2256 1729 0.29 0.29 TH 1729 TH 2336 2.49 2.49 2336

0525 0.43 0.43 0558 0.55 0.55 0614 0.28 0.28 23 0525 23 0614 23 88 0558 1051 1.93 1.93 1144 1.88 1.88 23 1209 2.19 2.19 1051 1144 1209 1649 0.29 0.29 TU 1649 TU 2319 2.66 2.66 2319

1724 0.56 0.56 WE 1737 0.34 0.34 TU 1724 WE 1737 TU 2358 2.36 2.36 2358

1817 0.68 0.68 FR 1817 FR

1816 0.42 0.42 FR 1816 FR

1258 2.19 2.19 SA 1258 SA 1908 0.59 0.59 1908

628 0.57 0.57 628 151 1.82 1.82 151 741 0.45 0.45 741

0642 0.67 0.67 0001 2.59 2.59 0022 2.10 2.10 0059 2.05 2.05 10 0642 25 0001 10 0022 25 0059 10 1215 1.75 1.75 25 0649 0.40 0.40 10 0654 0.56 0.56 25 0729 0.40 0.40 1215 0649 0654 0729

019 2.55 2.55 019 715 0.56 0.56 715 244 1.83 1.83 244 831 0.52 0.52 831

0030 2.27 2.27 0044 2.46 2.46 0054 1.95 1.95 0147 1.79 1.79 11 0030 26 0044 11 0054 26 0147 11 0713 0.68 0.68 26 0730 0.41 0.41 11 0727 0.60 0.60 26 0813 0.50 0.50 0713 0730 0727 0813

106 2.48 2.48 106 802 0.55 0.55 802 341 1.86 1.86 341 929 0.61 0.61 929

0104 2.17 2.17 0128 2.27 2.27 0131 1.78 1.78 0253 1.57 1.57 12 0104 27 0128 12 0131 27 0253 12 0747 0.67 0.67 27 0812 0.44 0.44 12 0806 0.64 0.64 27 0910 0.59 0.59 0747 0812 0806 0910

156 2.38 2.38 156 850 0.53 0.53 850 444 1.91 1.91 444 032 0.71 0.71 032

0143 2.04 2.04 0426 1.46 1.46 0216 2.05 2.05 0223 1.63 1.63 13 0143 28 0216 13 0223 28 0426 13 0826 0.68 0.68 28 1024 0.65 0.65 0858 0.47 0.47 13 0856 0.69 0.69 28 0826 0858 0856 1024

249 2.25 2.25 249 941 0.51 0.51 941 551 1.99 1.99 551 145 0.79 0.79 145

0227 1.90 1.90 0315 1.84 1.84 0339 1.52 1.52 0030 0.79 0.79 14 0227 29 0315 14 0339 29 0030 14 0912 0.68 0.68 29 0950 0.51 0.51 14 1002 0.70 0.70 29 0556 1.49 1.49 0912 0950 1002 0556

348 2.11 2.11 348 032 0.48 0.48 032 659 2.12 2.12 659 304 0.82 0.82 304

0323 1.78 1.78 0131 0.67 0.67 0429 1.68 1.68 0504 1.50 1.50 15 0323 30 0131 30 0429 15 0504 15 1003 0.67 0.67 30 0701 1.59 1.59 1050 0.53 0.53 15 1115 0.65 0.65 30 1003 0701 1050 1115

1801 0.64 0.64 WE 1801 WE

1256 1.75 1.75 TH 1256 TH 1843 0.74 0.74 1843 1342 1.76 1.76 FR 1342 FR 1930 0.85 0.85 1930

1437 1.77 1.77 SA 1437 SA 2026 0.96 0.96 2026

1230 2.00 2.00 TH 1230 TH 1826 0.44 0.44 1826 1321 2.02 2.02 FR 1321 FR 1918 0.57 0.57 1918

1418 2.04 2.04 SA 1418 SA 2018 0.72 0.72 2018

1523 2.07 2.07 SU 1523 SU 2130 0.84 0.84 2130

1542 1.82 1.82 MO 1634 2.13 2.13 SU 1542 MO 1634 SU 2137 1.02 1.02 2259 0.89 0.89 2137 2259

1651 1.91 1.91 MO 1651 MO 2259 1.02 1.02 2259

1745 2.22 2.22 TU 1745 TU

0028 0.83 0.83 31 0028 31 0548 1.60 1.60 0548 1156 0.53 0.53 WE 1156 WE 1850 2.32 2.32 1850

ureau of of Meteorology Meteorology ureau New Moon e First Quarter Quarter First

Full Moon Full Moon Moon Full

1300 1.88 1.88 SA 1300 SA 1859 0.80 0.80 1859

1352 2.16 2.16 SU 1352 SU 2008 0.76 0.76 2008

1345 1.86 1.86 MO 1455 2.12 2.12 SU 1345 MO 1455 SU 1947 0.92 0.92 2127 0.88 0.88 1947 2127

1442 1.86 1.86 MO 1442 MO 2051 1.01 1.01 2051

1611 2.11 2.11 TU 1611 TU 2305 0.89 0.89 2305

1729 2.16 2.16 1553 1.89 1.89 WE WE 1729 TU 1553 TU 2217 1.03 1.03 2217

1711 1.98 1.98 WE 1711 WE 2349 0.94 0.94 2349 1817 2.13 2.13 TH 1817 TH

1143 0.63 0.63 TH 1143 TH 1835 2.23 2.23 1835 1251 0.57 0.57 FR 1251 FR 1928 2.31 2.31 1928

0217 0.58 0.58 31 0217 31 0751 1.71 1.71 0751 1345 0.49 0.49 SA 1345 SA 2013 2.35 2.35 2013

First Quarter Last Quarter Last Quarter Quarter Last

Page 12 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

A dawn snapper caught in the shallows, pre-closure.

Tips for fishing Moreton Bay * from P10

Berkley Gulp 2” Sandworm Nereis in Bloodworm colour on the same Tru-Turn hooks also work an absolute treat when drifting, provided there is a bit of chop to make their little legs move. Snapper Another of my favourite bay fish to catch, snapper definitely started firing in May. As the cooler water moves into the bay, and with it bait, in the early light periods, snapper come in and feed right up into the shallows of a couple of metres. For a number of years now, I’ve concentrated on them with lures. I’d taken to chasing them with lightly weighted soft plastics around the change of tide and trolling hard-bodies that dive to 4-5m along the edge of the reefs around the bay islands. However, interest from my son to chase them on bait saw me go back to the future and chase them right on the edge of the shallows in 4-6m on the falling or low

tide, as they come off the shallows. This has seen us land some reasonable knobbies to 60cm, with the occasional bigger snapper dusting me on 30lb leader. Baitrunner reels are also a great option to let the fish run and swallow your bait. I use berley such as chopped up fish frames

and try to entice them slightly off the reef with bigger flesh bait the pickers can’t take off. Spero Kartanos has written a great article on this technique, if you Google search his name and Moreton Bay snapper. Other species School mackerel have also been about in good * continued P13

Flathead trolling using small minnow lures is a good option in winter.

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Tips for fishing Moreton Bay * from P12

numbers on the western side of the bay. For lure anglers, these are a good target trolling diving boards and running a short 50cm trace to a swivel, then a 5m long 40lb fluorocarbon trace to a 3” spoon in silver or gold/yellow. Halco Smith jigs in white and silver also work well. An ideal trolling speed is about six knots in 7-9m of water. If you have a good sounder with mapping, follow the edge of contours, which indicates a ledge, and concentrate around bait schools. If you get a fish, circle back around on it. Toni at Water Tower Bait and Tackle and Frank from Mr Bait at Hemmant have all your mackerel boards and

lures, and are both lovely. Flathead numbers have also picked up from the summer water temperature and are hitting plastics and hard-bodies again with gusto. In winter, you can find quite a few fish further up the estuaries, with flatties a great daytime target on the last couple of hours of a falling tide. Target areas are channel drop-offs, drains and creek entrances. Shallow diving lures to 1.4m or so are a great trolling option on the shallow-water flats in winter. Summer whiting are also about, as they are all year, with good day catches in the Gold Coast estuaries and in low tide gutters off the beach. Live beachworms on number 4 hooks on a

very light whippy rod of 9-10’6” are my go-to choices off the beach. In the estuary, light 1-3kg or 2-4kg rods of 7’ or so are a good option, with long 1-1.5m traces and small baitholder hooks in size 6 or so baited up with live bloodworms. Set and watch them though rather than try to hook them yourself, as you often pull the bait out of their mouth. So, there you go, a wrap up of some of my favourite winter species in my favourite time of year in Queensland. Until next month, check out my social media pages for more reports, videos and tips, with my Facebook page, Ontour Fishing Australia, having the most information and effort put into it.

The author’s preferred jig heads for flathead on soft plastics in the winter shallows.

The author with a nice pre-closure full moon snapper.

Fish hard all day with no worries! No more jammed, seized or broken cables. Models to suit: Outboards Inboards Sterndrives Jets and Cats

Photo courtesy of Australian Master Marine

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 13

The Z-Man Slim SwimZ smile. The author with a 60cm plus flathead from a drain on the edge of the flats.

Ethan Flowers managed a bream from the kayak on a Z-Man 2.5” PrawnZ in Opening Night colour.

Andrew Schrodter captured a school jewfish that ate a Slim SwimZ in the new Disco Cisco colour. A winner in the clear winter water.

Finesse fishing with plastics

O The author with a solid handful of bream on the Z-Man 2.5” PrawnZ.

The Z-Man 2.5” PrawnZ is a great option when focusing on key structure.

Corrine Cox visited from western NSW and got into her first flathead. Page 14 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

NE of my favourite types of fishing is shallow water finesse plastics fishing, targeting species such as bream, flathead, grunter, trevally and tailor. Throughout the colder months, I find there is an influx of bait in the river and estuary systems, along with cooler water temperatures, which encourages fish to get up into the shallows to feed. In the shallows, predators have the advantage because the bait has nowhere to run, trapped within a thinner column of water where it can be herded and picked off easily. Once hooked, fish are forced to run sideways through the shallows, creating some lineburning runs and epic battles. Let’s get into some shallow water and get hooked up! What are the shallows? I would describe the shallows as water that is less than 1.5m deep. However, I’ll frequently fish in water from

Tackle Tactics by JUSTIN WILLMER

about 0.8-1.2m deep and this seems to be the magic depth for holding bait and having enough water to attract fish of all sizes. These areas usually consist of large expanses of sand and mud flats that drain at low tide, along with the shallows that remain on the lower stages of the tide, such as channel edges, drains and river channels. A lot of these spots are often barren so, like a desert, we are looking for the oasis, which comes in the form of structure. Structure attracts bait,

which is generally the key to finding predatory species when fishing the shallows. Higher tide tactics On the higher stages of the tide, the water will cover many places that are dry on the lower stages of the tide, and these are my favourite areas to fish. Fish will move into these locations primarily to feed, encouraging a more aggressive feeding response. It’s also an opportunity to explore those flats, creeks and drains that are too shallow to fish * continued P15

A little Pro-Cure Super Gel Scent smeared on every 30 casts can fire up the bite and make the fish hold on longer.

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Competition Winning Performance

Andrew with a grunter in the net, landed fishing broken weed beds with a Z-Man Slim SwimZ.

Finesse fishing with plastics * from P14

on the lower stages of the tide. Key structure on the higher stages of the tide – including man-made pontoons, rock walls, jetties, boat ramps and bridges – may not be accessible or able to be fished effectively on the lower stage of the tide. A lot of the high-tide structure that I fish consists of natural areas, such as mangrove edges, weed and mud flats, and rubble. There are two tactics I use on this stage of the tide – the last of the run-in and the first of the run-out. First, if there are wide expanses of flats with weed and rubble spread over the area or extensive mangrove lines, I will drift the area to cover water and run and gun (or fish quite quickly), targeting actively feeding fish. For this style of fishing, I will generally use paddle tail soft plastics that can be slow rolled, hopped and shaken mid-water to mimic the bait found in the area, also known as matching the hatch.

If the available structure is smaller or more isolated, I will switch to a more focused approach whereby I target specific areas that should hold fish. Key things to look for again include bait, water movement and eddies, deeper sections in the shallows and areas that the fish should use as roadways to travel between different sections of the waterway. For this more focussed and often slower style of fishing, I will commonly switch to a prawn imitation or curl tail plastic, but more on that later. Mid-tide tactics The middle stage of the run-in or run-out tide is often the period when fish are transitioning between high and low tide holding areas and so it makes sense that this is also when anglers struggle the most. During this period, I will follow the bait as it moves away from high tide structure and onto the flats, towards deeper water. The height of the tide will often dictate * continued P16

Another interesting catch from a drain, Andrew with a giant herring in the net. www.bnbfishing.com.au

FISHING EVENTS EVENT

DATE

LOCATION

2024 Evans Head Jul 5-12 Fishing Classic

Evans Head, NSW evansheadfishingclassic.com.au

Isisford Fishing Jul 26-28 Competition

Isisford, Qld https://www.facebook.com/ groups/276743562394366/

2024 Tailor Classic Jul 26-28

Gold Coast, Qld facebook.com/thebaitshopgoldcoast

AFTA Tackle Show Aug 15-17

Gold Coast, Qld afta.net.au

Catch a Catty Family Aug 17-18 Fishing Competition

Burnett River, Qld facebook.com/Paradise-Fish-Stock ing-Association-105544657844248

Moreton Island Aug 28-31 Fishing Classic

Moreton Island, Qld moretonislandfishingclassic.com.au

Kurrimine Beach Sep 13-15 Fishing Classic

Kurrimine Beach, Qld kurriminebeachfishingclub.com.au

Woodgate Beach Sep 13-15 Hotel Fishing Classic

Woodgate, Qld woodgatebeachhotelfishingclassic. com.au

Baffle Creek Family Sep 16-21 Fishing Festival

Baffle Creek, Qld bafflecreek.com.au

Flathead Classic Sep 24-27

Gold Coast, Qld flatheadclassic.com.au

Fitzroy River Oct 9-12 Barra Bash

Fitzroy River, Qld fitzroyriverbarrabash.com.au

Tackle World Oct 18-20 Bundaberg Family Fishing Classic

Lake Monduran, Qld masa-fishstocking.org.au

Wyaralong Dam Oct 19 Carp and Tilapia Eradication Comp

Wyaralong, Qld lafma.org

To have your competition listed in the calendar, please phone (07) 3286 1833 or email ads@collins.media Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 15

For land-based anglers, the shallows are a great place to target the readily accessible flathead.

Curl tail plastics, such as the Z-Man 2.5” ST GrubZ, are another proven performer in the shallows.

With the tide fully out, it’s time to hit the weed edges. Ron with one of many landed working the edge.

Finesse fishing with plastics * from P15

Andrew worked the mangrove edges for bream.

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how quickly the bait and fish move off the flat, with some species moving off quicker than others. I have found that grunter and pelagic species will often be the first to leave, followed by bream and, if you want to hunt primarily flathead, then you can hang in there a bit longer until the water gets down to about 0.5m. It’s worth noting that fish will generally push onto the flat earlier in the tide on a rising tide and drop off a flat faster on a falling tide, so a similar depth of water may hold more fish on the run-in tide. This stage of the tide is also where I look for any drains that are coming off the shallow flats and I position myself in these areas waiting for the fish to begin moving to deeper water. Drains will funnel the water and bait from the shallows and fish will use these deeper areas of flow to exit the flat, while also potentially holding in these areas to let the bait come to them. Again, I will be fish-

ing faster and covering water up in the shallows or slowing things down a bit if I’m focusing on working a drain. If you arrive in an area at this stage of the tide and are unsure where to start fishing, focus on key structure, that magic water depth of 0.8-1.2m of water and keep an eye out for areas where the water is draining from the shallows into deeper water.

Lower tide tactics The last couple of hours of run-out and the first hour of run-in are the most productive periods of the tide and a favourite for many anglers. Fish are concentrated on the channel edges, in the drains and creek channels, there is less water between the fish and the bait has been forced into the mix. * continued P17

They won’t all be monsters but flathead school. So if you find one, keep casting. Brendan Cox scored a few from the shallows on plastics.

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Finesse fishing with plastics * from P16

This is prime flathead fishing time. However, it will also produce a mixed bag of species that feed on the edges, where the bait is waiting for its opportunity to escape back into the shallows. When fishing the lower stages of the tide, I will simply work along the edges. If the bank drops away quickly into deeper water, I will cast parallel along the edges, making a cast into the shallow water, one a little deeper and then one along the deeper edge of the drop-off. Fanning casts like this will produce a variety of species and help you to crack a pattern if the fish are holding in a particular depth. If the bank tapers more slowly, I will often sit a cast distance from the bank and cast slightly up current or ahead of the drift and work the plastic back out from the bank to where I am positioned. The aim is again to cover a variety of depths and structure to crack a pattern and work out where the fish are holding, along with the presentation and retrieve that they are responding to. This stage of the tide also brings everything back into the creek channels and is an opportunity to drift or use the electric motor to explore these areas. When fishing a smaller creek, you may be able to position yourself in the centre of it as you drift or electric and fan your casts to cover each side of the creek and its channel. If the creek is large, you may have to focus on one side, so maybe spend a short period on each side and then select

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the one that has better structure, varied depth, more bait or more fish activity. Go-to combo If I plan to mix up the fishing and fish throughout the tide cycle, I will generally have a minimum of three combos with me in the kayak or boat. These will be a light, medium light and medium combo – to cover light finesse presentations through to heavier presentations for fishing deep edges. With up to 10 combos rigged and ready to go in the boat at one time, I have built my kit around bang-for-buck and find the TT Black Mamba or Red Belly rods offer excellent quality and performance, paired with the value of the feature-packed Okuma Ceymar HD spin reels. Let’s look at the three combos and why each is included in the kit. Light combo This combo consists of a 7’0” 1-3kg spin rod and 1000 size reel, loaded with 6lb braid. When it comes to fishing light soft plastic presentations, this is the go and is perfect for casting 1/28oz to 1/4oz jig heads. I have it commonly rigged with a 1/8oz jig head for targeting structure, sandy pockets among the weed and super shallow drains that are still holding fish. Medium light combo Stepping up to a great allrounder and the best place to start if you are getting into shallow plastics, a 7’ 2-4kg rod and 2500 size reel, spooled with 8lb braid. This is my go-to combo, and it will be rigged with a 1/4oz jig head for making long casts, covering water and picking apart structure, as well

as working slow tapering edges on the lower stages of the tide. Medium combo Depending on the fishing you’re doing, you may not need this one in your kit, doubling up on one of the other combos. I primarily use this 7’ 3-6kg rod and 2500 size reel, spooled with 10lb braid, for fishing the deeper edges, especially if the current is flowing harder, and it is ideal for working larger 3-4” soft plastics on 3/8oz jig heads. Leader will be based around target species, environment and conditions, with lighter leader often required in clear water and when fish are finicky, such as 6lb and 8lb. When fishing heavy structure and leader-destroying species, you may be stepping to 15 or 20lb, and even 40 or 60lb up north in barramundi country. For me, based around the rivers and estuaries of southeast Queensland, a 10lb leader is my go-to for targeting bread-andbutter species. Go-to gear As mentioned previously, I will run a paddle tail plastic when fishing faster and covering water, with my go-to presentations being a Z-Man 2.5” Slim SwimZ on a 1/0 TT HeadlockZ Finesse jig head. This is ideal when I’m hedging my bets between bream, grunter, flathead and a mixed bag of other species. If the focus is flathead and larger estuary species, then it’s a Z-Man 3” MinnowZ on a 1/4oz or 3/8oz TT HeadlockZ HD jig head. When I’m slowing things down and picking apart structure, I will tie on a Z-Man 2.5” * continued P18

The Z-Man 2.5” Slim SwimZ is a favourite for fishing the shallows and has produced a stack of solid flathead when they’re eating small bait.

It doesn’t take much water to hold a flathead. Nicholas Thompson was into a few, fishing a Z-Man 3.3” Mulletron.

The Z-Man Slim SwimZ did the job in the shallows for our country visitors, both landing their first flathead and more.

The Z-Man 3” Slim SwimZ is a go-to when flathead are the main target species. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 17

Bringing oyster reefs back

That wasn’t the plan... the author and guide snuck a few casts in and landed a 68cm flathead from a shallow drain.

Finesse fishing with plastics * from P17

PrawnZ or ST GrubZ, rigged on a 1/8-1/4oz 1/0 TT HeadlockZ Finesse jig head. These are both proven plastics that respond well to a few hops and a pause, or a shake and wind, followed by a pause. If you’re not getting bites around the structure, try slowing things down and giving the fish a chance to eat the soft plastic. Fishing the shallows

throughout winter can be both productive and fun, especially when fishing light gear and finesse soft plastics. Remember to keep in mind the water depth, available structure, where the water is flowing throughout the tide cycle and in turn, where fish may be holding or moving during the various stages of the tide. See you on the water…

You never know what you’ll find fishing the shallows. Brendan with a flounder on the Z-Man Slim SwimZ. Page 18 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

ROUND Australia, hundreds of people are coming together to help a once-prized but decimated and largely forgotten marine ecosystem. They’re busy restoring Australia’s native oyster and mussel reefs. Alongside the high-profile national Reef Builder campaign, community groups have become inspired to do their bit, in their own backyards. Fortunately, there’s more than one way to rebuild a reef. And you don’t have to think small. From humble beginnings, a community-driven project in Queensland’s Moreton Bay has grown into an ambitious plan to restore 100ha of oyster reef over the next 10 years. This would make it the largest oyster reef restoration project in the Southern Hemisphere. Why are we bringing back shellfish reefs? Only 200 years ago, Australia’s coastline was home to billions of oysters and mussels, forming reefs that stretched thousands of kilometres. They filled the sheltered waters of bays and estuaries from the southern Great Barrier Reef to Tasmania and all the way around to Perth. These thriving marine ecosystems provided food, shelter and water filtration, as well as coastline protection from stormy seas. But today, our shellfish reefs are near extinct. Oyster dredges scraped many reefs from the seafloor throughout the nineteenth century. Oysters and mussels were harvested for food.

Their shells were ground up to make roads and cement. Now only degraded remnants and individual oysters remain from what was once a continent-wide marine empire. Fortunately, Australia’s shellfish ecosystems were rediscovered this century. Researchers used historical records including newspaper clippings to work out how many oysters were taken and where from. Community interest grew as the scale of the loss became clear. Coastal communities could see the benefits of shellfish and wanted to bring them back. It turns out that baby oysters are still there, bobbing about in the ocean looking for a place to live. How do you build a shellfish reef? There’s more than one way to rebuild shellfish reefs. If you have earth-moving equipment and lots of money, you can start from the ground up. Limestone rubble can provide the firm foundation for baby oysters to settle and grow. That’s how Australia’s largest oyster reef restorations are built. Construction began in 2015. Windara Reef now spans 20ha in the coastal water of Gulf St Vincent, near Ardrossan on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia. Through a national campaign led by The Nature Conservancy, reefs have been built at 23 locations this way. They plan to hit a target of 60 reef ecosystems by 2030. But if you don’t have

cranes, trucks and the money it costs to build reefs from stone, there is another way. Baby oysters can simply settle and grow on the shells of old oysters, if they’re clumped together. Fishing filmmaker’s bright idea When former filmmaker Robbie Porter of Wynnum in Queensland heard about a small reef restoration project in the Noosa River, he wanted to do something closer to home. He approached fish conservation non-profit OzFish Unlimited with an idea for a smaller-scale hands-on approach to reef building. He devised a structure people could use to build their own reefs – one that’s light enough to be carried to a boat and dropped over the side. These wire mesh cages, called ‘robust oyster baskets’, are filled with sterile recycled oyster shells. The structure ensures the shell is held together for a few years, until the reef is established. Once the baby oysters find a good place to settle, they cement themselves to it. As they grow, they fuse with other oysters. After two or three years, the wire cage rusts away and you’re left with an ‘oyster bommie’, which resembles some of the few remaining reefs that still exist in undeveloped areas. The Moreton Bay project established a major recycling facility to collect used oyster shells from local restaurants and oyster shucking facilities. The shells are then * continued P19

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Bringing oyster reefs back * from P18

sterilised in the sun, washed and sorted before being placed into the baskets. As knowledge and support has grown, so has the ambition of these projects. Now reconstruction is taking place on an industrial scale. And Robbie is now employed full-time as OzFish Shellfish Revolution senior special projects officer. After six years, the project has amassed more than 23,000 volunteer hours, collected more than 800,000kg of shell for processing and placed more than 7000 oyster bommies into Moreton Bay. These can be found mainly around the Port of Brisbane, but also at 11 other locations in southeast Queensland. The idea has caught on. Community and OzFish groups in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria have all started their own projects growing oysters in baskets. Two projects are also planned for NSW. A test bed for research Academics and research students from various Australian universities have also been involved along the way. They have established scientific monitoring programs and laboratory experiments to examine progress. This knowledge helps validate restoration activities while allowing researchers to make new discoveries. Researchers are monitoring shellfish health, dissecting the biodiversity of the baskets, studying how fish use these reefs and working towards understanding

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the reef’s capacity to filter water. Research in Victoria has also shown shell recycling is an effective way not only to collect material for restoring shellfish reefs, but also to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill – and even published a step-by-step guide to establishing shell recycling. Shellfish restoration at scale Australians love the coast and millions of people fish along it every year. This is a potential army of conservation volunteers. Yet many people don’t know these projects exist or how to get involved. The Moreton Bay Shellfish Reef Restoration project has enabled more than 600 people to engage in nature repair, while building a sense of community. This was a first of its type in the world and it won’t be the last. Projects are popping up all around Australia. The model replicates the success of the Landcare movement, with local groups delivering local outcomes supported by expert advisers and academic researchers. Bringing people together around a shared vision for a healthier future also has welcome side effects. Many of our volunteers have discovered a new sense of purpose and optimism. By recreating our longlost and almost forgotten shellfish reefs, we have rediscovered ourselves. Check out ozfish.org. au/events/list for a working bee near you. Robbie Porter OzFish Unlimited

Robust oyster baskets provide secure habitat for baby oysters to settle, grow and form reef before the cage erodes away. Photo: Robbie Porter, OzFish Unlimited

Once the baby oysters find a good place to settle, they cement themselves to it. As they grow, they fuse with other oysters. After two or three years, the wire cage rusts away and you’re left with an ‘oyster bommie’.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

CREATING BETTER HABITAT FOR BETTER FISHING Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 19

C ASTfrom the past Techniques for targeting mighty Moreton Bay mulloway

EATURING a great article from the Bush ‘n Beach Fishing mag archives, welcome to Cast from the Past. If you have a hankering to read about a certain topic, drop us a line and we’ll do some deep diving. Here’s a piece by Lachie Baker from July 2015 covering the mighty mulloway. Hi, my name is Lachie Baker and I’m 13. I’m the top junior tagger in Queensland and the 2014 Wilson Moreton Bay and Offshore Family Fishing Challenge Junior Bream winner. I’ve tagged and released barramundi, bass, jewfish and everything in between. Enough about my

achievements, this report is designed to inform you about tagging and fishing for jewfish. Over the past few years, I’ve had an obsession with the mighty mulloway. It started when I was eight years old. Dad took me out one night to fish with live scad and pike fillets. The legendary 80lb handline was thumping on the side of the tank of a centre console we call ‘The Dog’ and Dad was on. He fought the fish like a professional and up came a silver beast of an 18kg jew. After a quick photo or two, the insertion of a tag and employing some revival techniques – including gently rocking the fish back and forth

and Dad quietly swearing under his breath, though not quiet enough for his eight-year-old son not to hear – the magnificent fish turned and glided off. We let out a few relieved sighs and a very happy “Go you good thing.” That was my first taste of jew fishing. A week went by and Dad asked if I was up for another jew session. My instant answer was “Absolutely!” After the Shimano TLD15 reel was loaded on the trusty 8-10kg Wilson Live Fibre rod and the good old 80lb had a kicking pike on a Mustad Big Gun hook, we were off. Luck was on our side for my second jewfish outing, with Dad boating

a 20kg jew on the TLD. He was rapt – two jewies in two attempts. It was the same thing as the first release, with rocking, swearing, fist pumping and several cries of “you beauty” thrown in. I was also fairly happy catching a couple of 50cm-plus snapper on a 15lb handline that I got when I was three, from a Caltex at Bowen. Sure enough, next time we left from Raby Bay, mulloway were on our minds. This time I had my own gear – a 20-yearold Abu Garcia 7000 loaded with new 25lb monofilament. Dad of course had the 80lb setup. We didn’t pull any jew but were rewarded with an 80cm cod and a big

The author slipped out for a fish and nailed a 80cm jewfish on a live mullet. Page 20 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

bust-up on my little gear. I managed a number of quality snapper on my little handline, and we tagged and released the fish, going home somewhat satisfied. A few years passed and I failed to catch a jewie, so we chased some other species and tried different tactics. Then, one of Dad’s best friends, Warren ‘Wazza’ Schmidt, introduced us to the wonderful world of chasing school jew on plastics. Dad had fished with plastics since 1984, when he was 14, however I started using them when I was five. The first time we went down the Logan River, I had my doubts but, within the first 10 casts, Wazza caught a 57cm schoolie and I was in disbelief. Sure enough, I got one a couple of casts later at 48cm and boy, do they hoot on 10lb braid. Even a little fish such as that one almost pulled me into the bottom structure, so I switched to my barra gear, but to no avail. The next trip saw me land my personal-best jewie, and on a plastic mind you. I’m lucky that I switched to my heavier gear or I wouldn’t have landed that beautiful 78cm specimen. I landed another two smaller jewfish of 42cm and 58cm, a 60cm flathead and two bream over 30cm. Dad got two jewies of 37cm and 46cm, as well as a 29cm bream. * continued P21

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C ASTfrom the past Targeting mighty Moreton Bay mulloway

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hope a fish jumps on. Sadly, that’s not how it works. Don’t cast where the fish aren’t. This is where your fishfinder comes into play. Our preference is the Humminbird 898c side and down imaging sounder/GPS combo. Your electric motor also plays a critical role. We use a 55lb Minn Kota i-Pilot with handheld remote. A couple of jew setups of mine include a Daiwa Freams 3000 reel loaded with 20lb Rovex braid and 25lb

The author’s first-ever jewfish was taken on a plastic.

* continued P22

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should use when wrangling mulloway, so here are a few tips. Plastics With plastics you want to make your offering look as natural as you can, so remember not to use too much lead to sink your plastic. Keep it in the strike zone as long as possible and use just enough weight to get it down to that strike zone. The hard part is finding the fish. Don’t expect to simply jam on a plastic, toss it 1m from the boat in the middle of nowhere, sit the rod in the holder and

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Next trip, Wazza came with us again and what do you know, he caught four jew and three bream and we got a delicious doughnut… also known as nothing. I believe jew fishing is easily the hardest form of the sport and a lot of patience is required. We didn’t see another jewfish for many trips, then one afternoon Dad the legend struck again, catching a magnificent 82cm jew on 10lb braid and a 2kg rod. He was rapt. You may be wondering what tackle you

* from P20

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C ASTfrom the past Targeting mighty Moreton Bay mulloway * from P21

The author’s father Glen Baker with a 120cm jewfish caught on a live scad.

A 75cm jewfish hooked on a plastic.

SureCatch fluorocarbon leader that is paired with a Daiwa Swamp Donkey rod. I also run a Shimano Stradic 3000 reel spooled with 20lb Sufix braid and the same SureCatch leader that’s matched to a 4-7kg Shimano Raider rod. I use a Threadybuster vibe on the Freams setup and on the Stradic setup, I employ an Infish Lures 3” paddle tail in Pearl White or Berkley 3” Minnow in Pilchard colour. If the fishing is tough, I’ll use a Z-Man 3” MinnowZ in New Penny. Quite often I’ll fish these plastics on TT 1/6oz 3/0 jig heads and TT HeadlockZ 1/4oz 3/0 jigs for the Z-Mans. You may be thinking that these hooks and plastics are too small, but Wazza has a notion,

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called the ‘jellybean theory’. He says you will always have room for one more jellybean, so that applies to fish as well. Fish will eat small plastics more frequently and more willingly than big plastics. Even though you will have to substitute with smaller jig heads, your strike rate will be greater, therefore giving you more chances to hook up. Jewies will still take a large-profile plastic, but my preference is for small plastics. Bait Ah, the simple days of bait fishing. This tactic is still very effective. For live baiting in the Logan River, I like using small to medium poddy mullet pinned behind the head under the backbone. I use 8/0 Carlisle pattern Mustad circle hooks and find them excellent for live baiting. I also employ a 40lb leader and light sinker and deploy the bait when the tide slows and turns. Your fishfinder still plays a big part because you have to find the structure and the fish to drop your bait on. There’s also the chance of catching a threadfin salmon or flathead, depending on where you’re fishing. For bait fishing, I use a Shimano Baitrunner 3500D loaded with 25lb Platypus Lo-Stretch mono paired with a 6-8kg Wilson Live Fibre rod. When fishing in Moreton Bay, I use similar

line and leader, except I switch to an Abu Garcia 7000 reel, 8-10kg Live Fibre rod and preferably live pike or scad for bait. If I’m fishing on structure such as a wreck, I’ll use my Shimano Charter Special overhead with 40lb mono main line and 60lb leader, matched to a Snyder Glas M10 rod. Remember, limit your keep rather than keep your limit. Jew fillets can be full of parasites, which is a real turn-off. Enjoy the fun of the fight and let the jewfish go. Appreciate the play, not the plate. If it’s a feed of fish you’re after, chase snapper and whiting because they’re much better eating. Also consider getting into Suntag. Suntag is a group based on fishing for research and it’s super easy to join. Tagging involves recording data such as the species, where you caught the fish, how big it was and what you caught it on (bait and a 5/0 hook for example). Please, never lift any fish by the bottom jaw because it damages their organs and spinal cord. Always support the fish’s body weight. The fish may swim off after an improper lift, but it will die later. Thanks for taking the time to read my first-ever article. Until next time, smoking drags and sore arms.

Lachie Baker

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 23

Tackling bay winter species

W Military Jetty was our last place to visit. It was an awesome session.

Tom and Lucy hit Bribie Island surf side to try their luck and hooked an awesome little dart off the beach.

–WANTED– Pre-trained old fishing gear!

We will come to you if you have bulk gear!

0402 703 519 Page 24 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

HEN it’s cold, rug up and get into a couple of species that love the cooler weather. Winter whiting are in great numbers all over Moreton Bay and there are still a few summer whiting hanging around too. Chasing winter whiting is great for the kids, they only need light gear and, when land based, you don’t have to worry about long casts. Most of the whiting will be only a few meters in front of you. All you need is a size 6 long-shank hook, #1 ball or bean sinker and, if you want to get a little fancy, try some pink or red tubing. I remember years ago that trying a piece of red wool to the top of the hook did the trick of grabbing their attention. We are fortunate to be able to take off and catch up with families and kids fishing off the local pier, up the creeks and off the foreshore. Times like these allow us to get back to basics, share a bit of knowledge and even learn a few tricks too. Teaching people the basics is fairly straightforward when you have an abundance of breadand-butter fish literally in the backyard. With the Pine River, Cabbage Tree Creek and the Sandgate foreshore area so close and so easy to access, you’re hauling fish in no time at all. Fishing with the kids has helped me rethink both my strategies and expectations, and I must admit, I have found my recent trips

Northern Moreton Bay by MARK TEMPLETON

to be far more rewarding. Not only in the size of fish being caught but also the enjoyment of being out with friends and family. What I’m trying to get across here is that sometimes it’s a matter of putting the heavy tackle away, grabbing the light gear sitting in the shed collecting dust, and going out and fishing like a kid. So, keep it simple, grab a friend or family member, ditch the seriousness and have a few laughs, you will not regret it. Over the past couple of months, I’ve been venturing out of my comfort zone with good friend Ian. We try to get out for a trip every Monday, weather and work commitments dependent. The last few places to

hit our radar were Bribie Island, Mooloolaba, Caloundra, Nudgee Beach and Manly. We found each place we visited to be well worth the effort of getting there. Military Jetty at Caloundra was our last place to visit, and it was an awesome session. We ended up with a diverse range of species – bream, moses perch, long tom, butterfish and something that could only be described as a submarine… it did not stop, no matter what I tried! Every location we tried, we landed fish, be it on plastics or on bait. Using lures only at Beachmere will be on the cards very shortly, as will Military Jetty with heavier gear. * continued P25

Captain Jacked headed out to Moreton Bay on his boat Blackjack and nailed a 61cm cracker mangrove jack.

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Tackling bay winter species * from P24

If you get a chance, try a few new places. Most are under an hour to get to, so pick a spot and make it happen. Tom and Lucy did the same and hit Bribie Island surf side to try their luck. It wasn’t long before this an awesome little dart hit the beach. Lucy did herself proud, and turned it into a very nice meal. Well done Tom and Lucy, great to see you both getting out and about. Three ‘Jacks’ sounds like a winning hand. Well, Captain Jack headed out to Moreton Bay again to catch a feed on his boat Blackjack. Hitting the usual grounds and using local Moreton Bay bait, Jack nailed a 61cm cracker mangrove jack, which let him know it wasn’t going to give up without a fight. Well done Jack, great

to see you still finding quality fish. It’s not very often you see photos of my crew holding fish, they can be a little shy. Ian, or Chewie as he’s also known, loves using plastics for most of his trips, though he also likes to throw out a bit of stinky bait. On a recent trip to Mud Island, Ian landed a very healthy 64cm flathead. He also reported that there were quite a few grinners hanging about but that these would thin out with the cooler water coming through. If you’re keen to get into plastics or lures in general out in the bay, have a chat with Ian and see what he recommends. Well done with the flathead, a worthy feed there. On the same trip as catching that cracker jack, Jack also nailed a monster Moreton Bay snapper, which came in at 7.8kg! It’s amazing how

healthy the snapper being caught at the moment are, not a skinny one in sight. Well done Jack, great snapper and an awesome photo to complement it. With the colder weather coming in, the Moreton Bay area is going to fire up. Don’t forget the snapper and pearl perch closure for all Queensland tidal waters from July 15 to August 15. But remember, if there’s a good weather window, get out there, don’t waste it. Cracker fish are inviting you to take them home. Maintain the passion!

On a recent trip to Mud Island, Ian landed a very healthy 64cm flathead.

Jack nailed a monster pre-closure Moreton Bay snapper, which came in at 7.8kg.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 25

Finding fish for kids

Dart love deep turbulent water.

All smiles.

Whiting are fun to catch and taste great. Page 26 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

HERE aren’t many things that change your life as much as becoming a parent. It’s the best thing in the world, though with parenting, your spare time tends to dry up fairly quickly. For those of us who love to fish, less leisure time often means less fishing. And particularly if offshore is your caper, as lining up downtime with good weather is almost impossible to do consistently. Getting the kids into fishing is something well worth doing. It’s fun for everyone and, in my experience, our children have learnt so much about animals, nature and the food chain. Let’s face it, we’re facing a global-scale generational problem with screens, technology and social media, so spending a couple of hours fishing with family and friends couldn’t be purer for the children in our lives. But where do you start? By keeping a few simple things in mind, you can give your kids the best chance of nailing some fish to kick off a love affair that will hopefully last a lifetime. First and foremost, remember that fish love structure. Given fishing with children is usually landbased, you need to rely on visual cues to identify potential fish habitats. If you’re beach fishing, look for rocks and headlands where rocks on land likely extend into the water. Also keep an eye out for gutters and holes at low tide, looking specifically for ones where

Fishing Tips by CHRIS RAIMONDI

the sand is undulated or there are many small deeper craters, known as melon holes. The perfect time to fish in these shallow gutters for species such as whiting, flathead and bream is when the tide fills and recedes. A massive bonus when beach fishing rocky headlands or shallow gutters is that long casts are often not required. This means the kids can learn to cast and have a real chance of catching a fish even if they haven’t mastered it. Safety wise, rock fishing can of course pose significant dangers, so if you can’t set yourself up on the adjacent sand, make sure you find some dry rocks, ideally in an area that is largely protected from the strongest part of the surf. These calmer pockets will often be where whiting and bream

choose to hang out, avoiding the current. Species such as dart and tailor prefer the deep turbulent white water to an extent. Either way, ensure safety first, then assess the conditions to decide the species you’d like to target. If you’re not beach fishing, there are a heap of other options. As someone who lives on the northside of Brisbane, the mouth of the Pine River and the adjoining area of Moreton Bay is a perfect spot for taking the kids. There is a stack of bream, whiting, flathead and the occasional jewfish to be caught under the Hornibrook Bridge and in the adjacent gutters and channels. At low tide, much of this zone can be covered on foot and is perfect if you have a small boat. Launching at Clontarf * continued P27

A decent double hook up.

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Great Sandy Marine Park Zoning Plan

Rosie’s nice dart.

Finding fish for kids * from P26

means a short calm trip across to largely protected water. Other options to consider are bridge pylons, pontoons or moored boats and sunken trees that are within casting distance from public land. If you’ve got your location locked in, the next thing is to settle on your bait or lures. If you’re going to use bait, go the extra mile to source quality bait that ideally is natural to the area. As a rule with bait, if a human ‘can’t’ eat it, you should probably think about using something fresher. Note, the rule doesn’t suggest that a human would ‘like’ to eat it! Fresh green prawns, live worms, strips of sea mullet and even fresh bread or chicken breast are good options. All can be sourced at good tackle stores or seafood shops. If you’re camping near the beach, get those feet digging in the sand for pipis, crack them open and

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feed them onto your hook. If you’re really keen, use a couple of pipis to try and coax up a few beachworms. The technique to catching these quick little critters is tricky and deserves a whole article itself, so keep an eye out on the beach for professionals or others who are catching a few and see if you can get some tips. Lures are a great option for kids because they just love winding the reel. Soft plastics, vibes and small hard-bodies are perfect as they give off a natural appearance under a slow wind. If you can encourage your child to add a pause in every now and then, it will be even more effective. There is nothing better than spending a few hours with the kids in the great outdoors, and catching the occasional fish is a bonus. Make sure to take all the videos and pictures you can because these will ensure the memories last a lifetime. Catch you.

HE new zoning plan came into effect May 21,

2024. Located in Queensland’s Wide Bay-Burnett region, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service manages the Great Sandy Marine Park. The management arrangements for this marine park are detailed in its zoning plan. The zoning plan identifies four different zones within the marine park, what kind of activities can be undertaken in each and the levels of protection to maintain environments and habitats. Marine national park zones ‘Green zones’ are essentially ‘look but don’t take’ zones, in which activities such as fishing and collecting are prohibited. No-take activities such

as boating, diving and photography are allowed. Conservation park zone Restrictions apply to most other activities conducted in this zone. Line fishing is limited to two lines or rods and two hooks or lures per person. When trolling, a maximum of two lines or rods with a combined total of two hooks can be used per person. Only four catch devices may be used per person for crabbing. Habitat protection zone Habitat protection zones are located over areas that contain sensitive habitats. Most activities are allowed in the habitat protection zones, but trawling is prohibited. General use zone The light blue or gen-

eral use zones aim to provide for conservation while providing opportunities for reasonable use. Most activities are allowed in the zone, but some require a permit. If you fish the waters of Hervey Bay and surrounds, Fisheries Queensland has launched the ‘Can I fish here’ map and side menu information in its free Qld Fishing 2.0 app. The app has been updated with the new zoning for the Great Sandy Marine Park, which came into effect on 21 May. Simply update it on your device for the changes to take effect. Read more about the development of the new zoning plan for the Great Sandy Marine Park by scanning the QR code.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service zones and designated areas map. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 27

YOUNG GUN anglers Cracking shallow inshore reefs

A high 50cm pre-closure snapper from near Scott’s Point Cliffe took a lightly weighted flesh bait.

A successful day around the peninsula using some of the techniques mentioned.

The author’s father with a quality pre-closure snapper caught in the shallows south of Redcliffe on a well-presented soft plastic. Page 28 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

HEN possible, we like to get out to the reefs off Redcliffe. These shallows provide natural and manmade structures, which open up ambush and protection points frequented by both predatory and bait species. Gear Generally, the gear you’ll want will be an upgrade on flathead and bream gear, with the lighter weight and lure range capabilities, as the harsher natural conditions, abrasive terrain and heavier hits can damage lighter reel internals and snap lighter rods. Pick gear with the appropriate strength and durability to handle the constant stress of the harsher environment. Read on! Lure fishing Like all other lure rods, a soft tip is preferred to allow feel and offer the lure its most natural action. I find a 7’ or 7.2’ length built on a stiff backbone to provide strength and propulsion in casts and a 2-5kg or 4-8kg weight range is suitable, which helps control the fish and casts. I’ll pair that with a nice 2500-3000 size reel that includes features allowing it to excel in comfort and enhance performance. In my opinion, a fast rotor allows you to work basically any lure at any speed, making it the best all-rounder for varying speed, aggressiveness and hops within a retrieve when tempting

Fishing Tips by GUY LAMBERT

finnicky fish to bite. Braid is the most appropriate line to spool your lure fishing reel with, due to its thin round design. This offers more smooth long casts, which may allow fish more visibility over your mainline, but offers the extra length and accuracy vital to cover more ground to locate fish. When it comes to braid, there are two types – four strand and eight strand. Four strand is weaved with thicker strands, giving increased abrasion resistance and offering support when fishing tighter abrasive country. Eight strand is a thinner round build, is generally thinner coming off the spool and guides a lot smoother, particularly for those situations where you need to cover more reef to potentially bring it past a snapper or grass sweetlip. Bait fishing When bait fishing shallower reefs, the technique I use will generally be lightly or unweighted bait left on free spool, so a rod of about 6.6’-7’ and with a long butt to easily fit into a boat rod holder is ideal. I prefer to use monofilament line that is less visible to fish and has less feel than braid, so a rod with a softer tip will allow for a natural hook

set and help detect any small nudges. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to reels, so I try to single out baitrunner or more high-end spin or baitcast reels. Spin reels that are suitable for this style of reef fishing will generally have a fast rotor to suit all retrieves and all lure applications, making it a lot more versatile to help you find what the fish want on the day. A solid compact reel build will increase durability, enhance performance and give extra reassurance when hooking larger specimens – most reel brands incorporate carbon drag washers above 4000 size. Thicker and stronger built reels offer more control over fish in tight country. If I’m trying to isolate those bigger fish around tough reef country, baitcaster reels are more appropriate due to having all the control over casting options, drag setting and other reel settings right at the thumb, making it easier to pick up line and react to hits a lot quicker, so in a nutshell, increasing your reflex speed to prevent fish from rubbing past raspy reef. Reels with all the right features include Daiwa Tatula, Shimano Tranx and Shimano Curado K 300HG. * continued P29

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YOUNG GUN anglers Cracking shallow inshore reef codes * from P28

Lures Since sweetlip, snapper and tuskfish can be finnicky though fond of a well-presented live bait, it’s best to match the hatch. This is a guide to being confident that the lure you pick is going to work. In clear water, natural bait such as hardyhead, herring, pilchard and yakka give off a sparkle and shine from their silver pattern, so match the hatch with blues, yellows, silvers, whites and pinks to get the better results.

The lures I fish are chosen based on two things – where the bait is schooled and the season. I generally find it best fishing around the reefs during summer, when the warm water starts to enter the shallow, bringing in different nutrients that in turn usually bring the smaller bait. The smaller bait available at this time for predatory species include prawns or smaller baitfish, so a grub tail or thinner paddle tail is a deadly and effective choice. The more subtle but

constant action strikes interest from a larger radius, compared to those stronger more dominant vibrations that the bigger paddle tails incorporate, which sometimes shuts down active fish. An effective retrieve would be a sequence of violent jerks matched with a steady retrieve of a fast-rotor reel and allowing time for the plastic to fall to the bottom, resembling a feeding or vulnerable baitfish, and repeating this – varying up the number of hops, speed of retrieve * continued P30

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 29

YOUNG GUN anglers Cracking codes for fishing shallow inshore reefs * from P29

and time for sink to see what pleases the fish on the day. Plan B for me would be vibes, due to the versatility, natural profiles and colours available and that you can fish them on any speed and hopping action you like. Generally, I’ll mark active fish on the sounder and cast up current, allowing my lighter weighted vibe to flutter or vibrate on the fall, while at the same using the current flow to help bring my lure back to vertical, so I’m lifting my vibe through the current instead of having an angle in my line, bringing the lure into the current and lifting my plastic out of the desired depth range. I then lift and shake the rod tip, causing the lure to flutter or vibrate, acting like a hurt isolated baitfish. Dirty water I repeat the same tactics previously explained but change colours from naturals to darks – such as Watermelon, Motor Oil, Midnight Oil, Goldrush

and similar – to give off a bolder silhouette, matching the darker tint baitfish have in less water clarity. I also add scent and give plenty of time on the pauses during the retrieve to let the scent disperse and attract fish from a larger distance. Jig heads The jig head size depends on depth, current and wind. So, mix it up and find the best option to suit the conditions. Go as light as you can get away with, so you’re not bombing the bottom, but maximising how much time the fish get to see it and how natural the lure looks when suspending through bait schools. Bait Bait is the most natural option when fishing for reef species that have a flesh bait diet, so here are some recommendations for bait. In a lot of current and tight country, the most popular bait for fishing would be oily and bloody types – such as pilchard, tuna, yakka, mullet and pike – due to

A healthy mid-morning snapper that devoured a live bait before the closure. Page 30 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

the amount of scent displaced throughout the water column with the aid of the current. So that your bait can be located by smell, increase the surface area. Crabs and other crustaceans are located on reefs and generally have a high availability, making them successful, yet finding live fish bait is easier in my opinion. When fishing live bait through dense abundances of bait varieties, I rig as light as possible under the prevailing weather conditions to have a slow fall and vulnerable appeal, with the injured display involving vibrations and erratic colourations when rigged. I also like bombing cut bait near the bottom with a heavier lead, to cut through challenging current and wind. Both of these methods have worked for me with a 10-30lb leader. I prefer to use fluorocarbon as a staple leader because it is denser than mono and allows your bait presentations to descend through the water column quicker. In discoloured water after rain, I’ve found that heavier line can reflect a visible tint, which can deter fish and make them feel less comfortable about approaching your offering. So, ensuring your leader is as light as possible will increase the likelihood of fish striking your bait. Where to look Here’s a start on where to locate the reef dwellers.

The saying goes you must find the bait to find the fish, so locate out of current spots when the tide is running – such as holes, pylons, bommies, rock patches. All patches that allow nutrients and bait to settle are frequent hunting grounds for snapper and sweetlip. When the tide slackens, look for the depth changes and drift onto edges of reef. This is often when most bait movement occurs and is therefore likely to be when the more timid rarer species such as tuskfish and red emperor are scavenging the bottom for scraps. Tide and moon To finish off, here’s an explanation of which tides and moon phases are most appropriate and effective when chasing the more timid reef fish in shallow water. When fishing the shallows, its ideal to match a larger tide when more water and bait have access to the shallower regions with the slack high at sunrise and move back 1m of depth every hour, this allows you to move with the tide when the bait is following micronutrients off the shallows into the deeper country, where predatory species are waiting for a feed. Low light conditions – sunrise, sunset and night – grant those reef dwellers maximum visibility over the bait, making it the most successful time for targeting them, with less boat traffic usually, maximising their time

in the shallows without getting spooked. High tide provides the most water over the reef, maximising the amount of bait and nutrients in your chosen area. The moon phase I commonly look for with any stage of tide is three days after a new moon – which is known to have the most current – leading to less misplacement of bait and lure presentations. After the new moon, there’s still more height in the tide, therefore more water is being forced onto the reefs, so more nutrients and bait are holding in the shallow structure. Also, a couple days after a new moon, the current has less of an effect on fish behaviour and is still in a high solunar activity phase. High tide is closely followed by a running tide and, due to less reef exposure, more ambush points open up for predatory species to intercept passing bait. Baitfish movement concentrates past the edges of the reef structure because the bait retreat into deeper cleaner water on the outgoing tide as they follow the micronutrients. I hope these tips and techniques help to flick the switch when fishing for the timid fish that inhabit shallow areas in Redcliffe and the southeast Queensland region. Remember the snapper and pearl perch closure from July 15 to August 15. Tight lines and see you next time.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 31

Approach the beachworm gently on the ball of your foot and let it grab the finger bait, then try to entice it out further ever so slowly.

Catching your own bait Banana prawns are a hot bait for anything from whiting to barramundi.

Get yourself a yabby pump and look for holes in softer sand mixed with darker patches of mud, these will hold yabbies. Page 32 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

HILE considered ‘old school’ by some in the fly or lure-only fraternity, the truth is bait fishing will always have a place in fishing, from the beginner to the experienced. And while I love lure fishing in a variety of scenarios – from tossing lures off the beach to trolling lures for everything from mackerel to marlin in the salt – I still love bait fishing an assortment of options. For a start, it is effective. In fact, it is even more effective if the bait you are using is live. Why? Well obviously, the bait looks natural and, as it is secured with a hook, it is thus swimming erratically and sending out distress signals to fish who might see it as an easy meal. So, let’s have a look at four key live bait options for the beach and estuaries, two of my favourite target areas. Prawns I’ll start with prawns because, going off their late start to the year and last season, the banana prawn run in southeast

Baiting Tips by SEAN THOMPSON

Queensland may go into June. While banana prawns are sensational to eat, if you can spare a few and keep them alive in an aerator and bucket, they are a hot bait for anything from whiting to barramundi. In Queensland, banana prawns are best caught with a 10”, or if you can manage it 12”, top pocket only cast net. During the peak seasons of February to May, you then want to be searching for them in the deep holes of rivers and creeks. If you are not exactly sure where, simply follow the scores of boats, particularly on weekends. It is a fairly relaxed atmosphere in the prawning mosh pit, so don’t worry about joining the crowds, yet if you can find your own hole and prawns, it’s all the more rewarding. An alternative way to target prawns, particularly tigers and bay prawns, is by using strong headlamps or

underwater lights and prawn scoop nets. I have used both types of lights, particularly strong LED lights on a do-it-yourself headlamp, which I have written about a few times in the past. In the shallows of Moreton Bay, these prawns are in such shallow water that the underwater light is much less effective than a strong headlamp, which can search out the red beady eyes of the prawn from afar. To keep these prawns alive, you ideally want to use them that day, but if not and you’re keeping them overnight, change the saltwater in your bucket or flat tray a few times. Keep them well aerated with portable aerators or even a 24-volt fish tank aerator, if you have one. Then, when it comes time to hook them up, a size 1 circle hook through the third last section of the prawn’s shell is ideal and will al* continued P33

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Guide to catching your own bait * from P32

low it to swim and kick about, attracting fish to investigate. Saltwater yabbies Saltwater yabbies are another awesome bait, as are freshwater crayfish or freshwater yabbies. Saltwater yabbies are probably the second easiest bait to collect behind the pipi. Yabbies will catch almost any fish that swims past them in the estuary, bay or the beach. To catch them, all you need is a yabby pump. While it might cost you around $70-90 for a quality stainless-steel pump, for the most part, it will last you a lifetime. All you need to do is give the brass shaft and washers some oil from

time to time and make sure you flush the sand out after each session to avoid it clogging up. Then every few years, it’s worth replacing the 2” rubber washers for a couple of dollars before they wear out. Finding yabbies isn’t that hard, though there are a few little tricks to avoid raising a huge sweat pumping on unproductive grounds. On the sand flats, avoid the hard corrugated sand and instead look for holes in the softer sand, mixed with darker patches of mud and sand, this will hold yabbies. A top spot in these areas are melon holes created by stingrays, which are filled with water on a low tide. Likewise, look around the edge of the mangrove roots as another

choice spot. If you are consistently getting small yabbies, the spot may be overused, so try a bit further away, particularly where the spot has easy access. When you are lifting the pump out – on say the second or third pump down the hole – and hearing a ‘slurp’ noise, you know you’re in productive yabby territory of soft sand mixed with water under the surface. Finally, another tip if you’re struggling to find them even after locating holes, is to look for holes with a fresh mound of dirt around the entrance. This generally means the yabby is at home. They are best kept alive in a shallow tray * continued P34

Yabbies will catch almost any fish that swims past them in the estuary, bay or the beach.

Pipis are the easiest live bait of the lot to collect, particularly on beaches that permit four-wheel-drives.

Tips for catching your own bait

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 33

Guide to catching your own bait * from P33

Pipi mounds can be found exposed as lumps under 4WD tyre tracks at low tide.

Beachworms are the king of all bait off the beach.

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Page 34 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

of saltwater with an aerator or two. However, they will also survive a reasonable length of time in damp sawdust or seagrass. Hooking them up, I like to use a small size 4 Tru-Turn finesse hook and go in through the underside of the tail, threading it up the tail and bringing it out in the harder breast plate area. Beware of their nippers – pinch them either side of the base of their claws to avoid getting nipped. One more tip for fishing them... Rather than thrown with a strenuous cast that you might give a pilchard in the surf, as they are soft, yabbies should be ‘flicked’ out when cast. As a consequence, a longer slow action or light whippy rods in the 1-3kg or 2-4kg range will help you achieve a reasonable cast without the yabby flying off. Pipis The easiest live bait of the lot to collect, particularly on beaches that permit four-wheeldrives on them, is the pipi. Pipi mounds can be found exposed as lumps under 4WD tyre tracks at low tide on the firm wet sand near the water. If your beach doesn’t permit 4WDs, the next option is to go down to the water’s edge, especially in the period between 90 minutes before to 90 minutes after low tide and do the pipi shuffle. In particular, look for areas of fine wet sand rather than coarse sand to do this. Basically, the pipi shuffle involves standing in the wet sand, or sand covered with a shallow layer of water,

and twist both feet, allowing them to shuffle down into the sand. If you then notice something hard underfoot, hold your foot on it and reach down and grab it. It may be a stone, or worse, a small crab – so always look at what you are grabbing if you can – yet after a while, you’ll get to know the feel of a pipi. In terms of baiting up, you can cut them into a couple of pieces, though I prefer to put a big bait on, which attracts on average bigger bream, tarwhine and flathead. This is best fished on a baitholder hook. I do this on a longshank hook to increase my chances of hooking a whiting with their small mouths, as I prefer to eat them over bream, tarwhine and dart. I basically thread the soft stomach over the hook a few times then secure it by pinning the tougher tongue over the top of it three times, by threading it in and out on the hook. Beachworms The king of all bait off the beach are live beachworms. These sand-dwelling creatures can be cut into many bait, depending on their length, and will catch everything from whiting to mulloway. Catching beachworms is a bit of an art, yet once perfected, it’s like riding a bike. To set yourself up for beachworming, all you need is an old onion bag or a fish-keeper bag full of fish frames. Try to avoid too much offal or pieces that will break off in it because the beachworms will grab them as the waves recede and then they’re gone. The other crucial piece of worming gear

is a firm finger bait of either a pipi or a firm piece of fish, such as that found on the underbelly of a fish. The trick then is swishing the stink bag of fish frames around the top of the wash and watching for heads sticking up as the wave recedes. This is best done two hours before and after low tide. While you can still catch some different species of beachworm further up the beach towards high tide, the rush of the waves does get harder as the tide picks up pace. Once spotted, you then approach the beachworm gently on the ball of your foot and let it grab the finger bait, then try to entice it out further ever so slowly. Eventually it will ‘arch its back’ and, with your fingers under the sand and either side of it, this is the time to grip firmly with your thumb and forefinger around its head and commence a firm and medium-paced lift to pull it out of the sand. I like to thread mine on a size 4 Tru-Turn hook in the surf for whiting, or longer sized 2/0 long-shank or baitholder hooks for mulloway, threading the whole worm on the hook by feeding it up and over the eye of the hook up the line. So, there you go. Four of the best live bait for the beach and estuary. There are of course others such as live bloodworms that are awesome for whiting further up the estuary and live fish bait in the estuary, bays and offshore, however these four will stand you in very good stead.

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Cape Moreton and Caloundra wide

ESPITE the threat of showers, Arthur Woo and his team set off from Manly at about 5am to try their luck offshore from Moreton Island. The forecast was for a 10-15 knot southwesterly, with a 1m southeasterly swell and a 1m sea. Heading out via the northern channel of the South Passage Bar presented little problem, but once through, the trip to the reefs east of Cape Moreton was quite lumpy, giving the hull of the Haines Signatures a decent work out. Once out, a brief shower dampened the first drift, though the sun eventually popped out and managed to warm everyone up. Conditions were quite good, only occasional gusts above 20 knots, and the drift speed was very fishable with the aid of the parachute. While it was ‘fishable’, the very unusual northwesterly drift made the fishing hard and the bite slow. In the end, persistence paid off, with two handsome pearl perch and the largest snapper nudging the 70cm mark. Fish were picked up

PBA Spin by MICK CLUTTERBUCK

here and there and, with the bag limit finally reached, they headed back to the bar on a southeasterly swell. Once inside the bar, the bay was glassy, making for a smooth and comfortable ride home to finish off a great Sunday session offshore. Caloundra wide Bribe Island Fishing Club hosted an inter-club competition with Rainbow Beach and Eumundi clubs in attendance too, and while Power Boat Anglers didn’t field a team as such, there were a few crossover fishos fishing the event. Arriving at the PBA digs at Bribie, Salty – the boat and probably the owner too – had to be shoehorned into the front yard of the house they were renting. It was probably just as well John Hooker had left his 2400 Noosa Cat at home because there was no room at the inn for it. Helaine had an idea that if they got Jeff Sor-

Arthur managed a great pair of Cape Moreton pearl perch. www.bnbfishing.com.au

rell on Short Fuse along for the trip, they could all get offshore for a fish. John arrived later in the afternoon, with Peter and his son Lake due first thing next morning. The briefing went well and they hit the sack early for a 4.30am wakeup call. Pete arrived on time and they met Jeff at the ramp, loaded the boats and were on their way as the sun started glowing to the east. The forecast had been very strange, with every weather site including MetEye saying it was going to be a bit breezy early, then back out to glass at 1pm. The Bureau of Meteorology forecast was vastly different, so on a coin toss, they headed up the outside of Bribie to see what was going to eventuate. The wind didn’t get over 15 knots and so they headed out to Caloundra wide. First drop started producing the biggest grinners known to man – these things were pushing 70cm long and pulling drag. A few snapper were about but the grinners were faster to the bait, making a mess of leaders and rigs, so it was time for a move. After a bumpy ride, they finally hit ‘big pearl’, one of Jeff’s marks. They hadn’t fished Caloundra wide in a long time, so it was interesting for them all getting reacquainted with the area. Long drifts over low reef and rubble were the * continued P36

Arthur Woo boated a nice snapper east of Cape Moreton.

Arthur and a nice 70cm snapper from the cape.

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POWER BOAT ANGLERS REEF FISHING CLUB INC Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 35

PBA club trips to Cape Moreton and Caloundra wide * from P35

go and a few fish started to bite. Undersized pearl perch were the main culprits, with a random tuskfish thrown in and a nice snapper for H.

They kept moving around, trying to find any good shows yet only getting the occasional fish but nothing special. The comp had pearl perch as the trophy fish, so they kept looking.

Helaine took out the trophy for the largest snapper and John Hooker took out the heaviest pearl perch of the inter-club competition.

The day wore on and wind dropped out, making spot hopping easier, however with the sun getting lower, they elected to head for some marks in the direction of home. The first mark of two close together was barren but on the way to the second, a good show appeared, so the electric was deployed just off the area. The first drop was hit slightly before the bottom and a nice pearlie hit the deck. Floating pillies down on a 6 ball and 30lb braid seemed to do the job. To this point, there hadn’t been much shark action, then of course

one showed up, making the wind a frantic affair to get the fish up whole. The next eight drops accounted for four nice pearlies, two big tuskies and very sore cranking arms. H was using a paternoster and, while getting fish, was not having the same success as the floater. Short Fuse had been called over and while they were getting the occasional fish, the school seemed to prefer sitting under Salty. Bagging out on pearlies and with some nice tuskfish, it was time to head for Bribie in glassy conditions – not the 25 knots that was forecast – making a very nice

ending to a very successful reintroduction to Caloundra wide. In the wind up, H took out the trophy for the largest snapper and John Hooker took out the heaviest pearl perch of the competition. Meetings Any interested parties are invited to come along to our monthly meetings, which occur on the first Wednesday of every month at ‘The Club Manly’ (bowls club), 26 Faine St, Manly from 6.30pm for a 7pm start. The next meetings will be Wednesday July 3, then on Wednesday August 7. Until next month, safe boating.

Six-knot vessel speed limit extended

The six-knot vessel speed limit zone now extends from Double Island Point through a yellow marker buoy to a point west of the lagoons. Photo: Transport and Main Roads Queensland Page 36 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

OL LOW I NG consultation with the community, Maritime Safety Queensland has extended the six-knot speed limit for vessels at Double Island Point. Due to the shifting sandbanks to the immediate west of Double Island Point, the vessel speed limit zone has been extended to ensure a safer lagoon area for all waterway users. The six-knot vessel speed limit zone now extends from Double Island Point through a yellow marker buoy to a point west of the lagoons. Maritime Safety Queensland has gazetted an extension to the six-knot vessel speed limit zone at the popular Double Island Point lagoons area on the Fraser Coast. Implementing these new changes will en-

hance safety at this busy shared waterway. Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Kell Dillon said, “Everyone deserves to be able to safely access our wonderful waterways.” “The beach and lagoon area at Double Island Point have grown in popularity among boaties and swimmers. “After consulting with the community, we’ve extended the sixknot speed limit for vessels to make sure everyone can safely enjoy this waterway. “The six-knot vessel speed limit zone now extends from Double Island Point through a yellow marker buoy to a point west of the lagoons,” Mr Dillon said. The shifting sands had caused the lagoons to extend beyond the six-knot zone, which was previously ga-

zetted in 2022, with the new gazetted areas now capturing the western parts of the lagoon. The revised speed zone is a decision made around safety concerns following reports and complaints of near misses from the community to several agencies including MSQ, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Community consultation on the proposed extension was undertaken in February and March 2024, with the majority of the community being supportive of the extension to the speed limit zone. Visit msq.qld.gov.au for more information. Enquiries and feedback can be emailed to consultation@msq.qld. gov.au

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 37

A world of fishing hurt

We are fortunate to have such a diverse species list, but that comes with a rulebook of biblical proportions. Photos: Fisheries Queensland Facebook

To be clear, Fisheries Queensland are not the managers of the fishery as it’s not given all the tools to manage it. Page 38 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

VERY involved subject, the following is an opinion and an overview based on 60 years of saltwater fishing in Queensland predominantly, participating in Queensland Fisheries working groups, engaging with Fisheries staff and communicating with state members of Parliament as well as many recreational fishing groups and individuals. Our fishery encompasses a multitude of species and habitats, so anyone saying they’re across the rules and regulations that govern our fishery is dreaming. We are fortunate to have such a diverse species list, but that comes with a rulebook of biblical proportions. Closed seasons, bag limits, boat limits, slot limits, possession limits, green zones, no take, charter limits, professional limits and species habitat demographic closures. Then there are types of fishing apparatus rules that move onto non-fish species such as crustaceans. What chance do we have? The Queensland Government manage our fishery via their marine-based portfolio ‘Fisheries’, which changes name every election. Again, who can keep up with this? Not only does that marine-based portfolio and department undertake fisheries management, so do others – Environment, State Development, Science, Agriculture, National Parks and who knows what else, so let’s throw in some Federal Government departments as well. Recreational anglers

Reader's Report by PHILL KLIESE

have been plying our waters since settlement and of course with population growth, comes fishing pressure. Add in commercial operations and things change. In recent times, we can add technology – GPS, sounders, radar and similar – which is getting more sophisticated every day, LiveScope as an example. The advent of fourstroke outboard technology and robust economic stimuli has resulted in an exponential increase of recreational fishing participation. The same could be said of commercial operations. Basically, the department that oversees us is Fisheries Queensland, charged with managing our fishery for both commercial and recreational stakeholders. And there is the problem. Fisheries Queensland is managing the stakeholders, not the fishery. Fisheries does nothing to protect, manage, enhance, sustain or shelter the fishery from the stakeholders. Unless a proactive regime of sustainability is employed, setting bag limits, boat limits and all those other band-aid

approaches are useless. The bag limit, size limit regulations have failed time and again, yet Fisheries continues down this well-worn path. The more green zones declared, size limits imposed, bag limits set and rules applied, the more people will ignore and break those rules, because nothing is being done to help the fishery itself. The tools available to Fisheries Queensland to manage the fishery are limiting in their power to sustain the fishery. There are no wild stocking programs, no beneficial roll out of artificial reefs, no rotation of green zones and no re-building of habitat. Until a program based on the sustainability of the fishery members, and not stakeholders, is undertaken, the fishery will continue to deplete and become unsustainable. That right there is where the managers of the fishery need to be brought to account, for not employing all measures to safeguard the fishery. Let me be clear, Fisheries Queensland is not the manager of the fishery as it’s not given all * continued P39

The Queensland Government needs to up the ante on our fishery and who it assigns to manage it.

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What is Fisheries Queensland doing about climate change or shark populations?

A world of fishing hurt - something needs to change urgently * from P38

the tools to manage it. The State Government is shamelessly ignoring science-based and world-best practice of sustainable fisheries by hamstringing the very department they charge to manage said fishery. The substantiated economic benefit of recreational fishing to Queensland demands far more respect than it

is currently afforded. The proven health and wellbeing attributes of recreational fishing in Queensland are there for all to see. The commercial enterprises are burgeoning with world-class product and practice, yet the fishery managers are surviving in poor conditions with poor budgets and poor management tools.

The State Government needs to up the ante on our fishery and who it assigns to manage it. In Australia, we have seen the results of proactive programs, such as the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Pumicestone Passage on the Sunshine Coast, the Northern Territory barramundi fishery, NSW Recreation Fishing Havens and a few artificial

reef deployments. The freshwater fishery is on fire with well-funded programs for wild stocking and enhanced structure deployments. Add further pressures such as climate change, exploding shark populations, illegal fishing, habitat destruction and water pollution – is it any wonder our fishery is suffering?

What is Fisheries Queensland doing about climate change, what is it doing about shark populations, what is it doing about illegal fishing, what is it doing about habitat destruction and what is it doing about water pollution? It appears its solution to all these problems is to ream the recreational angler.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 39

Berkley Crabby

THE Berkley Crabby is now available in the PowerBait formula in 2” and 2.5” sizes. The PowerBait Crabby features a ‘keeled’ belly that helps to keep it tracking straight when retrieved or can be cast on a light jig head and left to free fall adjacent to structure. This makes it ideal for fishing boat hulls, racks, pontoons and walls. The PowerBait Crabby is available in six great colours to cover a wide variety of water colour and light conditions. Visit berkley-fishing.com.au

Okuma Hakai Baitcast

THE new breed of high performance compact baitcasting reels is here. The Hakai is the culmination of Okuma’s experience in producing precision-engineered reels, with ultimate casting performance being the driving force. A completely new ground-up design incorporates features such as a feather-light magnesium/alloy body that carries the ultralight 167g weight as low as possible for balance and control. Okuma has incorporated Flite Spool and Flite Shaft technology into the Hakai. This allows for a super-tuned spool with unrivalled performance.

Page 40 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

The 33mm O/D all-purpose spool weighs only 9.5g total, including the bearings. The Hakai also features a patented hollow stainless-steel SUS Flite Shaft with precision SUS balls and provides a perfect balance between weight, strength and smoothness. The result is a casting reel that allows anglers of any skill level to confidently cast even the lightest lure. Visit tackletactics.com.au

every serious slugger excited. Available in four weights, 20g, 30g, 40g and 60g, OT jig caters to the most popular and sought-after sizes. Whether you’re throwing at fussy tuna schools in Hervey Bay or trying to reach those salmon schools off the beach in Western Australia, Daiwa’s OT jig will have a size to suit. Available in five high-quality colours, the finish on OT jig is outstanding – just what you’d expect of a premium deep-water or slow pitch jig. Perfectly matched to Daiwa’s large range of shore-casting and surf reels, OT jig is a great option for your next shore-casting or slugging adventure. Visit daiwafishing.com.au

Penn Spinfisher SSM

AVAILABLE in a variety of lengths and actions, the Penn Spinfisher SSM is made from a high composite graphite and glass blank for increased impact resistance. Featuring an integrated solid tip blank, high density EVA that gives greater sensitivity and durability and high quality stainless-steel guides with ceramic inserts. This rod is ideal for all fishos, with its durable and lightweight reel seat for better ergonomics, it handles superbly for all levels. Visit pennfishing.com

Daiwa OT Jig

JIG loving anglers are in for a treat. Daiwa’s OT – Over There – jig is a casting-specific metal slug that has been developed specifically for Australia, with hooks and colours that are sure to get

TT 8” Bait Scissors

TT Fishing 8” Bait Scissors are a versatile set of scissors to include in your fishing or camping kit, featuring a stainless-steel design with a serrated cutting blade and two-piece design for easy cleaning. Other features include non-slip handles, high visibly yellow colour and the versatility of an integrated fish scaler, bone cracker, bottle opener and vegetable peeler. One of the handiest pieces of equipment that you can include in your kit. Features include: • Stainless steel blades • Two-piece design for easy cleaning • Serrated cutting edge • Fish scaler • Bone cracker • Bottle opener • Vegetable peeler • High visibility yellow colour Visit tackletactics.com.au

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Its single upturned hook reduces snagging while ensuring maximum hook-up potential on larger fish. For best results cast and retrieve adjacent to structure or schooling baitfish. Visit berkley-fishing.com.au

UV Flashlight 21 LED Compact Daiwa 23 Wilderness X

VENTURE into the wild with Daiwa’s latest addition to their travel rod line-up, the all-new 23 Wilderness X. A merging of two of the brand’s most popular light-tackle rod series, Wilderness X takes the popular three-piece models from TD Hyper and TD Black and upgrades them into a single dedicated travel series with more models and more joints than ever before. A true dedicated travel-pack rod series, Wilderness X models feature four and five-piece joint construction to significantly reduce packed length, allowing them to easily fit into backpacks and small suitcases for local or international travel. Daiwa’s V-joint technology eliminates the old-school flat spots and weak areas associated with multi-piece rods, producing actions akin to those of single piece rods. Packability and portability doesn’t come at the expense of performance and quality, with HVF Nanoplus and X45 blank technology and stainless-steel Fuji aluminium oxide ring guides combining to deliver classic Daiwa strength and performance. The range features six spin and three baitcast models. Which means, whether you’re flying into Tasmania for a sneaky trout session, heading to the Northern Territory to chase barramundi and saratoga or taking a long-haul flight to the US or South America to catch tarpon, there’s a model in the 23 Wildnersess X range that has your bag tag and name on it. Visit daiwafishing.com.au www.bnbfishing.com.au

A COMPACT ultra-bright flashlight that comes ready to go with 3 x AAA batteries. This compact LED flashlight features a full aluminium housing for added durability when faced with the bumps and knocks of outdoor use, along with a wrist lanyard for securing the flashlight. A 21 x 395-400NM output provides a powerful UV light beam. Visit ttfishing.com

Berkley Shimma Vector

CATCHING reef fish just got easier. Shimma Vector Vibe was developed by Berkley engineers in collaboration with our pro anglers to target species in deeper water. With a natural baitfish profile made from TPE, a single hook and a wide range of colours, we head to the reef to test them against some of Australia’s hardest fighting table fish. Berkley Shimma Vector Vibe is designed to have maximum vibrating action when retrieved and a seductive shimmy as it sinks. The Berkley Vector Vibe has a natural baitfish profile and is available in 10 great colours to suit a wide variety of conditions and species.

TT Split Foam Tackle Trays

THE range of quality tackle storage from TT Fishing continues to expand with the release of the new Split Foam Tackle Trays. Strong locking lure trays with high density slitted foam inserts. Constructed from UV stabilised impact-resistant materials, with secure locking tabs to prevent accidental spills, the included high density foam inserts feature deep slits designed to securely hold hooks, preventing them from rattling loose and tangling. The small and medium shallow models are ideal for storing jig heads, blades, small soft vibes and hard-bodies, along with other smaller lure options. They feature a unique lid design that can be open from either side or removed completely for loading and accessing more finesse presentations. The large model has increased depth, making it a go-to for storing larger jig heads, soft vibes and hard-bodies, while the extra-large deep model steps storage capacity up another level for large stickbaits, poppers, paddles and other larger presentations that can often be difficult to store. The extra-large deep option is also ideal for storing leader, scent, tools and other accessories in your boat or tackle bag. Keep your gear sorted, separated and easily accessible with the range of quality TT Split Foam Tackle Trays. Visit ttfishing.com Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 41

Shimano 24 Ocea Jigger LD

SHIMANO 24 Ocea Jigger LD 2500 is a game-changer in precision jigging. This lever drag reel redefines norms, with its 30 percent lighter rotational torque and innovative double-drag structure maximising control during intense fights. Boasting a 20kg drag force and compact yet powerful design, it surpasses even larger reels. Customisable with interchangeable drag cams, the Ocea Jigger LD ensures an unmatched balance of strength and yet stays palm sized. Elevate your jigging experience with this dedicated reel for giants of the deep. Visit fish.shimano.com/en-AU

TT Jig Head Value Packs

ASSORTED jig heads packed in a quality plastic tray. Each pack is designed to target different species. Excellent value, great gift idea and a one stop solution for soft plastic fishing. Headlockz HD River and Estuary Value Pack contains 5 x 1/16oz 2, 5 x 1/12oz 1, 5 x 1/8oz 1/0, 5 x 1/6oz 2/0, 5 x 1/4oz 3/0. Headlockz HD Flathead Value Pack

Page 42 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

contains 5 x 1/8oz 1, 5 x 1/6oz 1/0, 5 x 1/4oz 2/0, 5 x 1/4oz 3/0, 5 x 3/8oz 3/0. Head Hunter Breamin’ Value Pack contains 5 x 1/20oz 2, 5 x 1/16oz 2, 5 x 1/12oz 2, 5 x 1/8oz 1, 5 x 1/8oz 1/0. Headlockz Finesse Breamin’ Pro Pack contains 5 x 1/20oz #1 HWS, 5 x 1/20oz #1, 5 x 1/16oz #1, 5 x 1/12oz 1/0, 5 x 1/8oz 1/0. Headlockz HD Inshore Reef Value pack contains 5 x 1/4oz 3/0, 5 x 1/4oz 5/0, 4 x 3/8oz 5/0, 5 x 1/2oz 3/0, 4 x 1/2oz 5/0. Chinlockz Weedless Rig Value Pack contains 1 x 1/12oz 2/0 ChinlockZ SWS, 1 x 1/8oz 3/0 ChinlockZ SWS, 1 x 1/6oz 4/0 ChinlockZ SWS, 1 x 1/6oz 6/0 ChinlockZ SWS, 3 x 1/8oz 2/0 SnakelockZ, 3 x 1/6oz 3/0 SnakelockZ, 3 x 1/4oz 4/0 SnakelockZ, 3 x 3/8oz 6/0 SnakelockZ. Visit ttfishing.com

Daiwa 23 TD Hyper

CLASSIC in looks, generous in performance and brimming with value are three key elements of the third generation of the TD Hyper series. While paying homage to its predecessors, the 23 TD Hyper range elevates the series to new heights and is an evolution that is primed to strike a chord with anglers throughout the country. A sleek new satin grey finish graces Daiwa’s famous HVF Nanoplus blanks, which combine precise resin control and unidirectional graphite fibre to produce a blank with maximum graphite density and minimal weight. Light, responsive and crisp in action, TD Hyper blank performance is further enhanced courtesy of X45 blank technology that works seamlessly to eliminate

blank twist and distortion to increase rod strength, function,and sensitivity. The 23 TD Hyper guide train received an upgrade for 2023, with stainless-steel framed anti-tangle Fuji aluminium oxide ring guides enhancing line performance and helping to eliminate line control issues, especially when fishing in windy conditions. The TD Hyper’s reel seats have similarly been upgraded with Daiwa’s exclusive reel seats featuring on all models. Lighter than the previous generation’s reel seat, the result is an overall reduction in rod weight and an increase in rod balance, sensitivity and feel. Featuring an expansive range of actions and models, the 23 TD Hyper is a range that is destined to catch anglers and fish right across the country. Visit daiwafishing.com.au

Berkley PowerBait PaddleStinger

FEATURING patent-pending Honeycomb technology, the PowerBait PaddleStinger showcases durability in a paddle tail style swimbait without sacrificing action. Designed with both profile and action in mind, the PaddleStinger has a thick baitfish profile and a dense head to provide easy rigging on multiple hook styles. Infused with Berkley’s legendary PowerBait scent, the scientific formula emits a taste and smell that mimics real prey and makes fish bite and hold on 18 times longer than traditional unscented plastics. Available in three sizes 3”, 4” and 5”, the PaddleStinger is perfect for flathead, jewfish, snapper, kingfish, mangrove jack, coral trout, trevally, Murray cod and barramundi. Visit berkley-fishing.com.au

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Berkley PowerBait Nessie

THE PowerBait Nessie opens the door to a whole new world of lure fishing opportunity for anglers looking for the next best thing. The Nessie is an unweighted soft glidebait design that’s articulated to create an insane action and is loaded with PowerBait scent and taste, so fish bite and hang on. Featuring unique stabilising fins to control depth as well as lifelike finishes, mesh joint reinforcement and a soft brush-tail design to create the ultimate glide weapon. Skip it, slide it and cast it where no other glide bait has ever been. Available in three sizes, 5”, 7” and 9” and at a recommended retail price of $11.99. Visit berkley-fishing.com.au

ant graphite body, A6061-T6 machined aluminium anodised spool, multi-disc composite drag, 5BB + 1RB bearing drive system and externally adjustable magnetic cast control system, the team at Okuma Australia have designed a series of rods to suit many of our popular target species and techniques. Combo options include 5’6” one-piece models to suit tighter waterways and super-accurate casting, with a 3-6kg model for lighter applications and a 4-8kg for wrestling fish from structure. The 6’6” models are two-piece for ease of transport and storage, with the additional length perfect for longer casts in more open water. Again, there is a 3-6kg model for more finesse applications and a heavier 4-8kg model for putting the hurt on snag dwelling species. Slick black and red aesthetics in a quality value-for-money package, the range of Okuma Ceymar baitcast combos are perfect for those getting into baitcast fishing, along with anglers looking to add another combo or two to their arsenal. Fish on! Visit tackletactics.com.au

Z-Man 3.75” StreakZ

Okuma Ceymar Baitcast Combos

THE Okuma Ceymar name has a reputation built around quality, performance and value for money and that reputation continues with the new Ceymar baitcast combos. Built around the popular Ceymar 100HA baitcast reel, with its corrosion resistwww.bnbfishing.com.au

THE Z-Man 3.75” StreakZ is a compact jerk minnow that realistically imitates a wounded baitfish. Ideal for bream, bass, flathead, snapper and a wide range of other species. A versatile profile that can be fished finesse, hopped slowly or twitched quicker and erratically to trigger strikes. This little jerkbait profile has also become a go-to for anglers chasing pelagic species eating tiny baitfish, accounting for big tuna, mackerel and more. The 10X tough ElaZtech construction allows the StreakZ 3.75” to stand up to toothy critters such as blowfish and leatherjacket, while still maintaining a realistic super-soft and flexible feel. Visit z-man.com.au

Daiwa 24 Certate

BE strong, no limit. 24 Certate’s new catch phrase perfectly embodies the next generation of Daiwa’s iconic and much-loved flagship reel. Now equipped with Daiwa’s latest spin reel design concept, airdrive design, Certate is more refined than ever and ready to take on the challenge of Australia’s hardest fighting fish. The cornerstone of Certate’s reputation is a solid aluminium body construction. 24 Certate features a single-piece Monocoque body that is over 20 percent more rigid than its competitors. The rigid and robust body construction empowers the angler in tough situations, ensuring no loss of efficiency from the gearing due to unwanted body flex. 24 Certate’s Tough Digigear Duralumin drive gear sports a new surface treatment process first debuted in 22 Exist, that significantly increases gear durability, maintaining that buttery smooth feeling for longer. The result is a Certate that is stronger and more refined than those before it. These two technologies synergise beautifully to make 24 Certate one of the highest power-to-size ratio reels Daiwa has ever produced. Available in sizes ranging from 20005000 and in a host of various spool depth and gear ratio combinations, there is sure to be a 24 Certate to suit your fishing style. Visit daiwafishing.com.au Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 43

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Page 44 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 45

The Spinfisher VII is the epitome of continuous improvement, blending the best of tradition with state-of-the-art advancements.

Reliability with Penn Spinfisher VII

Backed by 60 years of saltwater domination, Spinfisher VII meets the needs of anglers who demand function and durability above all else.

The Penn Spinfisher VII features IPX5 sealing, with a full metal body and side plate to keep the CNC gear system in precise alignment under heavy loads. Page 46 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

HE Bastard Smith Brothers, based in central Queensland, live and breathe adventure. If they’re not hunting a hog in the scrub, they’re sending it to the reef to fill an Esky with some of the finest table fish found on the east coast! Here they test drive the Penn Spinfisher VII – check out the video and specifications by scanning the QR code. For as long as we can remember, fishing has been an integral part of our lives. It’s a passion that has been passed down through generations, from both sides of our family. We have always believed in the importance of using top-notch fishing gear to make the most of our time on the water and in the great outdoors.

When it comes to choosing fishing equipment, there’s one brand that has consistently stood out from the rest – Penn. The legacy of Penn Fishing and its commitment to quality is unmatched in the industry, and the latest addition to the brand’s arsenal, the Spinfisher VII, enhances its reputation. We wanted to share our experience using the Spinfisher VII and why it has become a reel we cannot leave at home. Before delving into our experience with the Spinfisher VII, it’s crucial to highlight why we choose Penn as our brand of choice. The history of Penn and its gear is steeped in a tradition of excellence. For over six decades, Penn has been dominat-

ing the saltwater fishing market, catering to anglers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Penn’s commitment to innovation, durability and performance has earned the brand a spot at the top of the industry, making it an obvious choice for passionate anglers such as us. We have been fortunate enough to witness the evolution of the Spinfisher series over the years. Our father’s father used a Spinfisher, which was passed down to our father and still lives in the shed now. With each new iteration, Penn has raised the bar, introducing cutting-edge technologies and features that enhance the fishing experience. The Spinfisher VII is * continued P47

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Reliability with Penn Spinfisher VII * from P46

the epitome of this continuous improvement, blending the best of tradition with state-of-theart advancements. From the moment we got our hands on the Spinfisher VII, we knew it was something special. The IPX5 sealing offers incredible protection against saltwater intrusion, providing us with the confidence to tackle some of the harshest marine environments. Whether we were battling beasts from the depths or letting the reel ride in the spray, we were amazed at how well the Spinfisher VII maintained its performance. The full metal body and side plate of the Spinfisher VII kept the system in perfect alignment, even under immense pressure during heavy fights. The CNC gear technology, with its allbrass main gear, helps to deliver a smooth and precise feel, allowing us to effortlessly handle hard-fighting fish. We could feel the quality and reliability with every turn of the handle. One of the standout features of the Spinfisher VII is the HT-100 car-

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bon fibre drag washers. The proprietary heat-dispersing grease ensures maximum longevity, with the ability to pull over 150 kilometres of line without any wear on the washers. This kind of reliability is crucial when chasing after big game fish that demand every bit of strength from the gear. The five-plus-one sealed stainless-steel ball bearing system provided an exceptionally smooth retrieve, reducing friction and increasing overall performance. Combined with the full metal body, this reel exhibited outstanding durability, making it a perfect companion for our rugged fishing style. The Superline Spool with line capacity rings is another great addition, and coupled together with the improved line clip design, the Spinfisher VII is especially useful for securing heavier line and leader, minimising loose line and tangles. With a full suite of sizes to choose from, including a 2500 all the way up to a 10500, choosing the right Spinfisher VII for our specific needs was made easy.

No matter what was needed, we knew we were getting a strong performing reel backed by Penn’s 10-year warranty. In conclusion, our experience with the Penn Spinfisher VII has been nothing short of exceptional. It embodies the spirit of the ‘Bastard Smith Brothers’ – strong, tough and dependable, while continuing Penn’s legacy and tradition of saltwater domination. We have tested it out against some of the hardest fighting species that central Queensland has to offer and we can say, with the utmost confidence, that every feature of the Spinfisher VII has been purposefully designed to deliver top performance and durability. Whether we are casting from the shore or dropping it deep, this reel has proved to be a valuable asset in our armoury. Penn has once again proven why it is the brand of choice for anglers worldwide, and the Spinfisher VII stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. Bastard Smith Brothers Penn Pro Team

Penn’s commitment to quality is unmatched and the latest addition, the Spinfisher VII, only enhances the brand’s reputation.

The IPX5 sealing offers incredible protection against saltwater intrusion.

The authors have witnessed the evolution of the Spinfisher series over the years. Their father’s father used a Spinfisher, which was passed down to their father and still lives in the shed.

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 47

Snapper and pearl perch closure

T A solid Brisbane River snapper taken when casting a soft plastic into structure.

Bill Corten is a gun at finding pearl perch.

HE snapper and pearl perch closure in southeast Queensland for 2024 is a critical conservation measure aimed at protecting these vulnerable fish species. The closure period, mandated by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, is part of a broader strategy to ensure the sustainability of these species. Background and reasons for the closure Snapper and pearl perch are key species in the marine ecosystem of southeast Queensland, playing vital roles in the food web and contributing to the region’s biodiversity. However, scientific assessments have indicated that the stocks of these species are at concerning levels. The closure is implemented during the peak spawning period of these species, from July 15 to August 15.

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www.custommarinewelding.com.au Page 48 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

This timing is crucial as it allows the fish to reproduce without the added stress of fishing, thereby increasing the chances of successful spawning and recruitment of young fish into the population. Impact on fishers Recreational fishos, who form a large part of the fishing activity in this region, are required to comply with the restrictions, which include not targeting or possessing snapper and pearl perch during the closure period. Commercial fishers are similarly affected, needing to adjust their operations to avoid these species. While the immediate impact on fishos can be challenging, the longterm benefits of the closure are substantial. Healthier fish populations lead to more sustainable fishing opportunities, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy fishing and that the economic benefits of a thriving fishery are maintained. Additionally, protecting these species supports the overall health of the marine ecosystem, benefiting other marine life and habitats. Enforcement and compliance Ensuring compliance with the closure is a significant task. DAF employs various strategies to enforce the restrictions, including patrols by Fisheries officers, community education campaigns and collaborations with recreational fishing groups and commercial operators. Penalties for non-compliance can include fines and other sanctions, underscoring the seriousness of the regulations. Community engage-

ment and education are also pivotal in achieving the goals of the closure. By informing anglers about the reasons behind the closure and the importance of protecting snapper and pearl perch, authorities aim to foster a culture of conservation and responsible fishing practices. Outreach programs and materials are distributed to raise awareness and encourage voluntary compliance. Looking ahead The snapper and pearl perch closure is part of a broader framework of Fisheries’ management strategies, designed to ensure the sustainability of Queensland’s marine resources. Continuous monitoring and research are essential to assess the effectiveness of the closure and to make any necessary adjustments. The involvement of stakeholders, including fishos, scientists and conservationists, is crucial in developing and implementing these strategies. In conclusion, the snapper and pearl perch closure in southeast Queensland is a necessary measure to protect these species and ensure the long-term sustainability of the region’s fishery resources. While it poses challenges for the fishing community, the benefits of healthier fish populations and a more resilient marine ecosystem are significant. Through effective enforcement, community engagement and ongoing research, the closure aims to contribute to the recovery and sustainability of snapper and pearl perch populations, securing their future in Queensland waters. Ben Collins

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 49

A nice river jewfish on a Tempo Flutter Herring.

The author hooked a nice shallow-water snapper.

Knobbies and pearlies fire up A surprise grass sweetlip when targeting snapper.

Conor with a decent sized tiger squid.

Brett captured a healthy flathead off a rock bar. Page 50 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

ELLO everyone, it has definitely been an interesting start to our winter, with very inconsistent weather. However, it hasn’t stopped people getting out on those unpredictable days and giving fishing a crack. There were awesome reports of fishing offshore, inshore and in some of the dams – great news to hear. July is the perfect time of year to zero in on our colder water species, which are a little more prolific than they are through the warmer months. Off the Gold Coast, reports of snapper and pearl perch from our 18 and 24-fathom reefs – the 18s are in about 30m of water and 24s are in about 45m – have been coming through. Floating a lightly weighted full or half a pilchard was very effective for snapper, as was using lightly weighted soft plastics. The reason for fishing lightly weighted is the slower sink rate, which allows the fish more time to come up and see your presentation descending in a more natural state – this is

Nerang Rooster Report by DARREN RAMA

very effective. And it’s always exciting for the angler because getting a big snapper on the drop can lead to great hook-ups. On these reefs, I like to use 1/4 to 1/2oz jig heads. Even though 1/4oz is very light for that depth of water, using a thin braided line and casting ahead of my drift – about the distance of the depth beneath me – can still be enough to get me where I need to be, before I’ve drifted past it and my plastic is dragging instead of naturally falling. This winter, I have also been trying my hand at a bit of shallow-water snapper in the Moreton Bay region, having plenty of fun on light gear. I use 10lb line and smaller 3-4” plastics, fishing early morning and finding bigger fish hunting before the sun shows on the shallow flats, before they push deeper. The only thing we have to be mindful of is that July 15 is the

commencement of the month-long snapper and pearl perch closure, which helps these fish and their breeding cycles, so they will be notake species until midnight August 16. In the Broadwater, there has been a great selection of species on offer, from flathead, jewfish, bream, tailor and squid. Squid are starting to gain huge popularity due to how easily they can be caught, something the whole family can enjoy and… how good they are to eat? The two most common types we get on the Gold Coast and in the Moreton Bay region are tiger and arrow squid. They can be identified quite easily. Arrow squid have wings that take up 1/3 of their hood and are narrower and longer than their counterpart. Tiger squid tend to be striped and have wings down the length of their wider hood. Fishing around a high tide and having clean * continued P51

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Winter tactics for Broadwater

I everyone, I must say I am loving the cold of winter and the westerly wind that’s typical for this time of year. It hasn’t been all dry so far, but we’ll take what we can get. This month is one of my favourites and I’ve been mixing it up a lot for customers on my local daily estuary fishing charters. We are spoilt with some wonderful varieties, including flathead, squid, flounder, tailor, winter whiting and more. These are all very tasty critters, plus you don’t need a lot of rods on the boat to target them all. For starters, when squid are on, I’ll take three or four rods rigged

Broadwater Guide by CLINT ANSELL

with squid jigs attached by Mustad Fastach clips, so colours and sizes can be quickly changed if the squid need tempting. Another essential combination is light 2-4kg Samaki and Tackle Tactics rods about 7’ in length, matched with 2500 size Okuma Ceymar HD reels for jigging vibe lures, including Ecogear ZX40, TT Fishing SwitchPrawn+, Samaki Vibelicious 70mm fork tail and 65mm Nomad Squidtrex. Spool the reels with PE 0.6 YGK Pentagram line and 10lb fluorocarbon leader and

Knobbies and pearlies fire up * from P50

water is a huge advantage, as time of day isn’t a big factor. Squid jigs 2.5-3.5 in size have been popular, with the colour being dependent on the day. Jewfish are starting to show up more in the canals and in the slightly deeper sections ranging from 3m and over. This is awesome because they’re starting to push up to about 60cm plus – great fun on light tackle. With storage fishing, we’re starting to see bass captures more frequently in Hinze, Maroon and Wyaralong dams. Quite a few bass have been found in the tree lines and people were targeting them with small jerkbaits and spinnerbaits. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Be mindful, in our dams there are a lot of invasive species that are no-return fish, such as barred grunter, tilapia and carp. If they’re caught, they are to be humanly disposed of – these are often signed at the ramps. Also remember to obtain a stocked impoundment permit when fishing these storages because non-compliance can result in a fine. These can be purchased online and the funds go towards the restocking of our dams. I can’t wait to see everyone’s captures this July and I also hope for more consistent weather, so people can get out and enjoy what this month has to offer. Bye for now.

you’re good to go. I’ll then have a couple of slightly heavier 3-6kg 7’ rods with 2500 or 3000 size reels spooled with PE 0.8 Platypus Pulse X8 braid and 12lb leader. These double as flathead soft plastic and tailor slug combos. From there it’s a matter of finding the baitfish to find the predators on the day. Generally, I will work deeper channels on a run-in tide and shallow bank edges on a runout. Squid love to hunt in clear water, which happens during runin tides, with the blue ocean water pushing in through the Seaway. Arrow squid can be found in sandy channels of about 4-6m depth. I’ll cast the squid jigs out about 10m and place the rods in holders, with the slow rocking of the * continued P52

Hard fighting giant trevally are always a welcome catch in the Nerang River.

Mark was stoked to boat a big arrow squid in the Broadwater using a Fish Inc squid jig.

The author boated a 65cm flathead using a 1-2kg Insalt rod and 6lb leader. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 51

Regular charter client Damo took home a nice feed of flathead.

Ollie captured a nice flathead on the Tate caught his personal best flathead ever-reliable Samaki Redic lure in Coral on a charter with the author using a Trout colour. Samaki Redic 50mm lure.

Winter tactics for Broadwater * from P51

Arden managed his best flathead on a charter with the author.

boat enough to entice squid. We then drop the vibe lures straight to the bottom while drifting. A simple continuous short and fast lift and drop of the rod tip is enough to catch heaps of fish and squid in Southport, Labrador, Runaway Bay, South Currigee, North Currigee and the main channel north of the Seaway.

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A run-in tide is also the best time to catch tailor, which chase and voraciously eat baitfish. Always keep an eye out for tailor busting up and birds diving, then cast metal lures and retrieve at medium to high speed. Once the tide turns, you can continue to fish as above for the first few hours but, as the water level drops, it’s time to look for flathead waiting off the bank edges for unsuspecting prey. This is when a cast and slow hop hop retrieve of 3” and 4” Fish Craft, Z-Man and Rapala CrushCity soft plastics in either baitfish or prawn imitation profiles work well.

On windy days, it helps to bring a few shorter 6’6” 2-4kg trolling rods, instead of some of the others. Using Samaki Redic DF50, Fish Craft Dr Stretch and Pontoon 21 Crackjack 48SP DR hard-body lures, we will troll any areas that are 1-3m deep for flathead, whiting and bream. Until next month, happy fishing. To book on a charter with myself or Brad, or if you have any fishing related questions, visit goldcoastrivercharters. com, SMS 0432 990 302 or email fishing withclint@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook at Brad Smith Fishing Charters.

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Page 52 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

The author gave Damo a quick beachworming lesson and it didn’t take him long to catch his first.

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Excitement builds for Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic 2024

T’S that time of year again! The eagerly awaited Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic is almost here and promises to be bigger and better than ever. The event kicks off on Friday, July 26 at 4pm, with fishing ending in time for everyone to be at the weigh-in, from 10am to noon on Sunday, July 28. This year, the fishing boundaries have been expanded – from the tip of North Stradbroke Island down to Ballina’s North Wall. Remember, while boats are allowed for transport within the designated areas, all fishing must be from shore (land-based). Each competitor can bring a maximum of three tailor to weighin, ensuring they are

Queensland legal size. This year, there will be divisions for both adults 18 plus and children 1317. Thinking about joining the Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic? Grab your entry forms in-store for only $30 per adult and $15 per child. Entries are limited, so act fast to secure your spot. This year’s weigh-in promises to be a family friendly affair, where participants can showcase their top three catches in front of competitors, family and friends, all while enjoying a well-deserved beverage after a hard weekend of fishing. The day will feature a barbecue along with demonstrations on fish filleting and fish smoking. Interest has been surg-

ing for overnight stays on North Stradbroke Island on the Friday and Saturday nights. If you’re planning to do this, be sure to book one of the early Sunday barges to ensure you’re back in time for the weigh-in. South Stradbroke Island is also a hotspot, with campgrounds at South Currigee, North Currigee and Tipplers filling up fast. If you prefer to fish from the mainland, the possibilities are endless, with numerous fishing spots shaping up from Sea World southwards. Start fishing now and get yourself geared up! We’re all hoping for a little westerly wind and incoming tides each night, setting the stage for a fantastic fishing weekend. Here’s to great catches

and even better memories at this year’s Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic. Entry forms are available from The Bait Shop

Gold Coast, 22 Kendor St, Arundel, or phone 0406 737 773 or email thebaitshopgoldcoast@ gmail.com for more information.

Gold Coast Tailor Fishing Classic 2023 adult winner Gary Enkelmann.

Winners of the children’s division from the 2023 event, Preston Rai, Ava Stephen and Hayden McQueen.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 53

Last year mahi mahi stayed on the FAD all winter. Let’s hope they do the same this year.

The author loves this photo because this is what it’s all about. Ethan with a cracking jewfish and Damien fighting a fish.

Ideal time and conditions for shallow reef jewfish

LOVE a lot of different styles of fishing, and anchoring up to a shallow reef late in the afternoon for an evening session on jewfish is right up there for me. With a light westerly blowing and a crystal-clear sunset, beanie adjusted and head torch at the ready, I cannot wait for that first jewie run. I get a lot of questions about jewfish, with one of the most common being where to fish for them. Virtually all of our reefs off the coast at the

Tweed to Byron Bay by GAVIN DOBSON

northern end of NSW hold jewies, but there are a few tricks. Take the Brunswick local reef as an example. It’s a large reef and, if you anchor anywhere on it around the golden hour of sunrise or sunset, you’ll quite possibly catch a jew. Whether fishing off the Tweed coast or off the Byron coast, I have always done better on isolated rocks away

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Page 54 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

from the main reef. These can be frustrating to anchor on, yet when you do, you seem to get a longer bite period that lasts into the night. Those of you with electric motors and spot lock will find these areas much easier to fish. What bait to use is not that complicated. Jewfish are very voracious feeders and take almost any bait presented in front of them. Offshore, the good old yakka will catch more jew than anything else, followed by pretty much anything that jumps on your bait jig. Slimies and pike are two favourites of mine, though when times are tough, I’ve caught jew on pomfrets and even stripies. Bait presentation is important but not difficult. The basic paternoster rig is probably the most successful on jewfish, with a live bait kept a couple of metres off the bottom. And a floated bait is also very successful,

with a pilchard being all that’s necessary, though the pickers can destroy them a bit. This calls for a tougher bait such as a whole yakka, pike or octopus. It’s always handy to have some octopus when fishing for jewies, as they are a major part of their diet here and are almost picker proof. To source some octopus, if you’re buying prawns from their wharf, speak with your local trawler fisher, otherwise your local fresh seafood supplier. When bait fishing doesn’t seem as effective, soft plastics are another deadly option for jewfish and will of-

ten induce a strike during daylight hours. Once it gets dark though, the opposite will occur. Plastics will still work but bait will be much more effective. By far the most common question I’m asked is what moon phase. There’s always been a mystery about jewfish and the moon. Though, to be honest, I don’t think it matters too much. I know two great jewie fishos and have asked them both this question. Interestingly, they gave me the same response, which was… basically, who cares. * continued P55

If you need a pelagic fix, longtail tuna will still be around this month.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

Learning how to target luderick

VERY year, at about this time, I make the same statement, “I don’t enjoy winter.” This may be because most of my favourite angling targets are warm water lovers, slipping into low gear in winter. And the fact that I undertake a 100km round trip at highway speeds on the motorcycle to and from work each day quite possibly tarnishes my attitude towards winter too. However, we still need to indulge in outdoor pursuits to remain happy and healthy, so this year, once again, I’m contemplating my options. I could stick close to home and spend my leisure hours beetling around looking for schooling bass. Unfortunately, for me that has taken on a ‘been there, done that’ feeling, with little to motivate too many outings in the near future.

Fishing for Sport by NEIL SCHULTZ

Another option would be to stay home and tick off a few of the winter chores that have been on my to-do list for a few years… quickly scratched. Okay, plan C would involve trips to the coast to indulge in the gallant pursuit of luderick fishing – I think we have a winner. In my youth, I considered fishing for luderick to be an old angler’s sport. Yet, while I now certainly fit that description, both my sons also enjoy the pastime. For those who’ve never participated, getting started with luderick can be quite a challenge because it differs greatly from most other forms of angling. Let’s see if I can remove some of the mystery for the uninitiated.

Shallow reef jewfish * from P54

They weren’t too worried offshore, and for their river, beach and rock fishing, the tide was the most important factor for the various spots they fished. Me personally, I have caught jewfish on any given moon phase, though I do love a bit of moon in the sky. Mostly because it helps lessen the effect of the phosphorus in the water. Learning from your own experiences is best and nothing helps more than time on the water. www.bnbfishing.com.au

If you are new to jew fishing the shallow reefs, I would put the first factor you need to worry about as being on the water and settled in, fishing during the change of light period. With time and experimentation, you will come across the jew f ish-prefer re d reefs or areas on a reef, and this is the second most important factor because they do have their favourite areas. The best take home advice is that jewfish must eat, and they aren’t fussy, so just give it a go.

First, you don’t essentially need to buy a dedicated luderick float fishing outfit to get into a few fish. Yes, a good specialist centrepin outfit is a pleasure to use but you can utilise your current estuary gear quite successfully. Tackle Rods with a soft tip are preferable as their flex helps to soak up the fish’s lunges, reducing the chance of the fish pulling the hook from its mouth. If fishing from a boat or jetty, a shortish rod of about 2.3m can be pressed into service without being a handicap. However, when angling from breakwalls, a longer rod of at least 3m – preferably 3.6m – will allow fish to be held clear of line chafing rocks while they tire. While centrepin reels are the traditional choice of dedicated luderick anglers, side-cast or spinning reels are quite capable of filling the role. I’ve even used a fly reel and rod, with the fly line removed and a float rig tied to the backing. On spinning reels, a braid of about 12lb breaking strain works well, while on side-cast or centrepin reels, 8kg monofilament is a great choice. The indispensable item in a luderick angler’s kit is a stem float, available from almost every specialist tackle store along the east coast. The hooks are small to match the target fish’s tiny mouth, with a size 6 in a short shank * continued P56

The author with a handsome estuary luderick taken using one of Alvey’s graphite blackfish reels.

Tony drifted a float rig using his spinning outfit.

The running float rig can be clearly seen. Note the 1m of monofilament leader between the sinker and hook, with a split shot attached. The main line is floating braid. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 55

Fine weather for jewies, tailor, bream and mud crabs

ELLO all and welcome to this edition. Well, for the first time in ages, we have finally had a few weeks with mostly fine weather. This is not to say that the rain has gone completely, but it has certainly been better than the past few months. According to the longrange forecast, we’re still in for a wetter than average winter, which is not a particularly appealing prospect after all the rain we received over summer. Personally, I do think we have not seen the

Ballina Bait & Tackle by BRETT HYDE

last of the rain, and I’m expecting it to continue through winter and into next summer. At the time of writing, the river remains a rather discoloured shade of brown. To some degree, I feel like a broken record on this, as it feels as though the river has done nothing but run brown since the start of the year. However, on the larger high tides around the

last moon phase, we did see some clear water push back into the mouth of the river. Since that time, we’ve had a number of small downpours and, given the saturated nature of the ground across most of the northern rivers, all of this was pure run-off. Given the constant state of the water, we’ve had a large and continued presence of sharks around the

mouth of the river. This has made fishing for mulloway from the breakwalls a difficult proposition to say the least. Most anglers have reported numerous lost fish and lures to the grey suit brigade over the past month. Unfortunately, this trend is set to continue as we move further into winter and the mulloway make their way into the river. With the occasional fish landed, at this stage, most anglers are still fairly keen to keep trying their luck.

I would say that, from the reports I’ve had, shark numbers seem to be worse in low light conditions or at night, so I would certainly suggest trying your luck early morning or during the day. If you don’t want to deal with sharks, it may be worth taking a few metal spinners with you, as good quality tailor have been popping up from the rocks and beaches. Also, over the past few weeks, the numbers and quality of bream in the lower * continued P57

Learning how to target luderick * from P55

A well-equipped luderick angler with a bait bucket on his hip, a long rod, stem float and long-handled landing net.

Tony obviously didn’t find his spinning gear to be any handicap when chasing luderick. Page 56 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

chemically sharpened pattern the ideal choice. Add a few small ball sinkers and an assortment of split shot and our tackle is complete. A couple of accessories I find very useful are a bait bucket that hangs on a belt and a long-handled landing net. Bait Luderick are largely herbivorous, so naturally the most successful bait are aquatic vegetation. Two types of algae – one known as cabbage, the other simply as green weed – are used as bait. Both can be collected from estuaries, cane drains or ocean rocks. But for a beginner, buying them from a coastal tackle shop is easiest and safest. When Winter is traditionally luderick season as this is when they undertake their spawning aggregations, moving close to estuary mouths.

Time of day is not critical as, if the tide is suitable, these very cooperative fish will feed even on the brightest days at midday. I prefer smaller tides, yet some run in the water tends to get the fish biting more actively than slack water. Falling tides are the safest option when fishing breakwalls that are exposed to ocean waves. Method Floats should be set to have the bait suspended about 0.5m from the bottom and weighted to be barely buoyant. A gentle sweeping side cast should be made to prevent the rig from tangling. Stopping the line coming from the reel just before splashdown can help the rig to straighten out. Aim up current of your position to allow the rig to sink to the fish’s level, then drift past unimpeded. Bites are obvious because your float will slip below the surface in

a continuous movement. When this happens, don’t strike! A sudden strike will almost always pull the baited hook away from the fish. Instead, when your float disappears, slowly lift the rod and wind until the tip folds with the weight of the fish. Once hooked, don’t be in a hurry to wind it closer, instead allow the fish to lug away without retrieving line. After the fish has tired a little is the time to begin a gentle pump and wind routine to bring it to the surface. Allow your rod’s soft tip to absorb the fish’s lunges and lead it into your waiting landing net. As with most forms of angling, the learning process can take time, but once you’ve landed your first, it will become much easier. Take a few of these well-flavoured fish home for a feed and enjoy the rewards of your efforts.

www.bnbfishing.com. au

Jewies, tailor, bream and muddies * from P56

reaches has improved significantly. At this time of year, bream will usually move into these areas in preparation for their breeding run. I was concerned that the discoloured water and reduced salt content in the lower reaches may have kept the bream on the beaches for the breeding season. At present, this doesn’t seem to be the case and, if the captures to date are any indication, it’s shaping up to be a fairly good season on bream. A wide variety of bait have all been working, including prawns, mullet, squid and pilchard. Small hard-body lures in darker colours have been quite successful too, particularly along some of the rock walls from the ferry to the mouth of the river. As the weather continues to cool down, I expect to see bream sitting closer to or on the bottom very soon. This will mean that soft plastics and metal blades or vibes hopped off the bottom will be the better option over coming weeks. As you might expect, with the weather cooling down, flathead have been a little quiet lately. Even though there’s plenty of fresh water in the river, we are starting to see fish moving upriver for the winter, with the ferry terminal to Wardell producing a good number of fish. Due to the reduced visibility in the river, metal blades, vibes and hard-body lures with a rattle have all been successful for lure throwers. And recently, the oily and smelly bait varie-

www.bnbfishing.com.au

ties – such as pilchard, mullet and bonito – proved to be good choices, particularly during the larger tides. The cooler weather doesn’t seem to be bothering mud crabs in the slightest. Reports are still coming in of crabs being caught in both creeks and in the main river. Plenty of anglers also reported captures of crabs after they attacked bait intended for fish. To this point, the weather has not been super cold and it seems to be a repeat of about five years ago, when we had a very mild winter and crabs were caught throughout the year. Fingers crossed it’s the same – nothing like some sweet chilli mud crab in winter. With the river remaining discoloured for so long, plenty of anglers have turned their attention to the beaches. Top quality fish were landed, with excellent mulloway and tailor at night, along with some good numbers of bream, tarwhine, flathead and a few late season whiting. Location and bait choices have been spread far and wide, with anything from pilchard to mullet to pipis proving useful. As is usually the case with the beaches, the formation has moved about quite a bit. Before you head out on your next fishing excursion, a little homework prior to is always a good option, yet Seven Mile, Shelly, Angels and Patchs beaches have all been worth trying over the past few weeks. Well, that’s about all from me, until next time – tight lines.

Dom with his personal best mulloway from the beach.

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02 6686 2527 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 57

BOATING & marine A 3.7m punt was the first craft built by Sea Jay. Col and Troy Glass in June 1989.

The F300 Twin Sea Jay 920 Pursuit GS.

A 4.0m runabout outside the original east Bundaberg Sea Jay factory.

A glass bottom special build in 1995.

A leader in the field and respected by marine industry peers, Troy understands and has expertise in every aspect of the boat building process. Page 58 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

Sea Jay celebrates 35 years

EA Jay Aluminium Boats is a family company founded in 1989 in Bundaberg by Col and Janelle Glass. Both Col and Janelle were proactive in many aspects of boating, including recreational fishing, tournament fishing for the mighty barramundi, water skiing and boat racing. Boating has always played a major part in the Glass family life, spanning many years. Manufacturing aluminium boats became a natural progression into the boating industry, though the family never dreamed its Sea Jay Aluminium Boats brand would one day become a household name, sold through 34 marine retailers in Australia. First located in east Bundaberg and constantly growing since its inception, the Sea Jay factory moved to Maddison Court in 1993 and now covers over 10,000sq m, with four separate buildings pro-

viding the necessary room to build Sea Jay’s pressed and plate range of aluminium boats. Six-years old when the business began, Troy Glass joined his parents with their passion, becoming an employee in 1999. Completing his apprenticeship in the industry, Troy soon put his theoretical and practical knowledge to good use and in 2010 became the research and development manager and a part owner of Sea Jay, further strengthening the family values associated with the company. In 2013, Col took a step back and Troy became managing director.

Then in 2022, Col and Janelle retired from the day-to-day operations of Sea Jay, with Troy and his wife Brooke running and operating the company. The first boat produced at the factory was a 3.7m square-nose punt, manufactured in June 1989. From this first craft to a full line-up of models, including the factory direct Plate Xtreme range, many boats have passed through the Sea Jay factory over the 35 years. Today, Sea Jay Aluminium Boats produces a vast range of craft, from 3.15m to 6.7m in the Sea Jay range and 5.5m to 9.2m in the Plate Xtreme series, with over * continued P60

The first photo shoot in 1989.

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SEA JAY BOATS NEW MODELS

590 TITAN

AVENGER SPORTS Console

460 RANGER Heavy duty tiller

AVENGER Tiller

AVENGER

TERRITORY Console

For more information visit www.seajayboats.com.au Talk to your nearest Sea Jay dealer for pricing and options. STRENGTH

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WORKMANSHIP

CUSTOMISATION

SINCE 1989

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 59

BOATING & marine The 1993 first plate boat.

The 920 Pursuit GS with Troy and his kids.

Sea Jay celebrates 35 years * from P58

A 1999 survey swamp test of an early model barramundi boat.

The first boat load headed north in 1989.

Transporting boats today, things have changed since 1989. Page 60 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

90 models throughout the two hull designs. These models consist of open and speciality dinghies, v-nose punts, runabouts, consoles and cabins. The Plate Xtreme series are sold factory direct, with the Sea Jay range sold through a nationwide dealer network. Currently employing 32 staff, the Sea Jay team is comprised of qualified tradespeople, apprentices and trade assistants, with training conducted by recognised organisations on the premises. Quality and pride in workmanship are important aspects of the team’s manufacturing process. As many Sea Jay employees enjoy boating, they build Sea Jay vessels to the highest standards of workmanship and expertise, as expected in their own boats, and this work ethic is applied to the entire manufacturing process. Sea Jay utilises two fully equipped paint booths, a computerised

print machine for boat wraps and signage, two CNC routers and a stateof-the-art press, which handles the cutting and preparing of materials used to manufacture a boat. For boat compliance testing to be conducted on site, a 4m by 10m test tank has been a valued addition. These modern innovations have certainly made the process of boat building more responsive for today’s customer. And while Sea Jay always tries to meet its customers’ needs and wishes with the vast range currently available, special builds and customisations are still a big part of the business. Sea Jay supports and sponsors many community groups, giving

back to the community through local and interstate organisations and initiatives. Sea Jay is continuously innovating, developing and tweaking new models and features to set the brand apart from its competitors, together with maintaining a high standard of workmanship, adhering to all regulatory and compliance requirements and investing in infrastructure and its people to continue to grow the business and the Sea Jay name. While the team may wonder where the next era of boating will take it, with four grandchildren all loyal Sea Jay supporters and keen fishos, the next generation of boating enthusiasts are sure to follow. Visit seajayboats.com. au for more details.

The latest Sea Jay cab model 670 Trojan HT.

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BOATING & marine

Mercury launches next generation of Avator

ESIGNED to power bigger sustainable adventures on the water, the new Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards are the latest to join Mercury’s all-electric propulsion line-up, which also includes the Avator 7.5e, 20e and 35e. The Avator 75e and 110e electric outboards are poised to be Mercury’s most powerful and capable models to date, promising boaters unparalleled performance. Mercury Marine president John Buelow said, “We are proud of all the recognition we have received for our Avator electric outboards to date and we are excited to introduce our most powerful new models yet.” “The 75e and 110e electric outboards are well-suited for powering a variety of vessels, including pontoons, runabouts, skiffs and RIBs ranging up to about 7m, providing more people with a user-friendly sustainable boating experience.”

Powerful performance A standout feature of the Avator 75e and 110e is the industry-first transverse flux motor technology. This groundbreaking design generates high torque with minimal effort, maximising battery life and ensuring quick acceleration for an exhilarating boating adventure. The Avator 75e generates 7500W, the equivalent of a 10hp engine, while the 110e generates 11,000W of power at the prop shaft comparable to a 15hp outboard. Both models are available with digital remote controls for boats with console steering. Batteries and charging The heart of these electric outboards lies in their advanced battery technology. Engineered exclusively for marine use, the Avator lithium-ion batteries provide reliable and efficient power. Their modular and

The all-new Mercury 75e and 110e Avators.

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portable designs allow users to bring along the power they need for a seamless boating experience. These new outboards connect to an Avator 5400 Power Centre, which facilitates seamless battery integration and offers the flexibility to connect up to four rugged weather-sealed Avator 5400Wh lithium-ion batteries for extended range and runtime. There are two charging options available with the portable 520W Avator charger, which can recharge two depleted 5400Wh batteries in approximately 20 hours, while the 1040W charger can cut charge time by more than 50 percent. The Avators feature a vivid full-colour display that offers comprehensive information, including to monitor speed, distance, range in terms of time remaining, battery level, power output and alerts. Optimised for easy viewing in all light con-

ditions, these displays enhance the overall boating experience by providing users with the necessary information to explore with confidence. Connectivity The Avator 75e and 110e come with a pre-installed Mercury SmartCraft Connect module that wirelessly connects the outboard to the Mercury Marine app on a smart device. This app allows users to monitor range, battery state of charge and other performance data. It also features a GPS map with visualised range estimates for planning trips. Additionally, users can customise the app to send alerts and descriptive text notifications. Commitment to sustainability The Avator program continues Mercury’s commitment across all product lines to redefine marine propulsion in ways that leave a positive impact on the environment.

Producing no exhaust fumes and zero direct emissions, these outboards allow boaters to enjoy nature without compromising it. Many components are recyclable or reusable, reflecting Mercury Marine’s commitment to a greener tomorrow. Mercury Marine continues to lead the way in electric propulsion, and the Avator 75e and 110e are poised to set new benchmarks for innovation, performance and connectivity in the marine industry. Boaters can anticipate a greener and more efficient boating experience with these cutting-edge electric outboards. Released to order in July, Avator outboards represent Mercury’s commitment to electric propulsion and its ongoing pursuit of excellence in marine innovation. Find out more about Avator and Mercury’s vision for electric propulsion by scanning the QR code.

The Avator is well suited for powering a variety of vessels. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 61

BOATING & marine

Yellowfin is truly unique, hand-crafted by a dedicated team of Australia’s best boat fabricators and builders to deliver an innovative, high-quality and high-performing plate boat.

Yellowfin’s new line-up making waves

Yellowfin Plate’s latest boat range once again takes the industry to another level.

An all-new seat design for the ultimate functionality, with the Fishing Edition featuring suspension seating. Page 62 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

N its fortieth year of production, Yellowfin, Australia’s most established plate boat brand, relaunches one of its most sought-after product lines, releasing a string of product updates and new innovations to the market. Set to make waves on Queensland soil, the brand debuted an overhauled Extended Cabin range, formerly known as the Southerner, during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, in front of nearly half-a-million people. Seeing updates across structural design, fit and finish, naming conventions and visual branding, Yellowfin product analyst Nathan Shaw said the hard work has paid off with the release years in the making to deliver an unparalleled product. “The new generation of Yellowfin Plate boats is the result of countless hours of

market research, product design, testing and review by a passionate team of research and development experts,” Mr Shaw said. “Seeing the launch was not only extremely rewarding but exciting, as we pave the way for the future of offshore boating and game fishing – we’re hungry to continue raising the bar of the Australian boating industry.” The launch comes from decades of boating expertise, first founded in 1984, which has led to innovative designs, including the Offshore HD hull, and an inherent industry-wide reputation of high-quality high performing plate boats. Building on the success of the Southerner range, the Extended Cabin features the next generation of hull design in the HD-R hull and Inter-Lok core, delivering a more robust

stronger design with increased stability, handling and responsiveness. An overhauled cabin design will now deliver up to 45 percent more internal space, while a new dash fascia provides enhanced real estate for electronics, allowing for a 19” and 16” sounder to fit side by side. EVA matting comes standard with all Extended Cabin models to elevate the overall fit and finish of the floor, with its soft-touch comfort, noise absorption, longevity in withstanding harsh marine conditions and sun-exposure, and overall enhanced look and feel. The soft-touch flooring is cut and fitted atop a fully welded fully sealed plate floor directly in the Yellowfin factory to uphold utmost quality control. EVA matting is also affixed to key areas * continued P63

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BOATING & marine Yellowfin’s new line-up making waves * from P62

including side decks, side panels and more for an overall enhanced product experience, look and feel. The extensive list of model updates, new features and options also includes a new live bait tank design for increased water flow, revised front window-wiper and cabin sliding window design for improved performance, plus an allnew seat design and rail positions for enhanced ergonomics. The Extended Cabin model range comes available in two sizes – 7m and 7.6m – with a person rating of up to seven, maximum horsepower of up to 300hp and a fuel tank size of up to 380 litres. “The Extended Cabin is an absolute powerhouse – what you see is a completely refined boat that continues to deliver on the unparalleled strength and quality that comes with Yel-

lowfin Plate boats,” Mr Shaw said. “Each product update comes with thorough and invested research and design creation. “As part of the product development journey, we invest in seeking out vital insights from our customers, dealership network and the general public, to understand key market demands and trends, before translating them into tangible model designs. “Such insights allow us to keep on the front-foot of consumer needs, while continuing to challenge norms with new innovations and technologies to evolve the industry.” Exclusive to the Extended Cabin range is the all-new Fishing Edition model configuration, comprising key sought-after features to consciously target the offshore fisher with a boat specifically built for offshore game fishing.

The two Extended Cabin models – YF-70 and YF-76 – landed on May 23 and are available to purchase from any Yellowfin dealer.

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Fishing Edition models don exclusive colourations, with dark grey EVA matting and yellow accents, plus feature suspension seats, deck wash, underwater lights, deluxe bait station, 75-litre ice-box and much more as standard. Each Yellowfin Plate boat is hand-crafted by a team of Australia’s top boat manufacturers, all working their way up through the industry by showing a keen eye for detail and unmatched skill. It is this specialist team that goes hand-inhand with the brand’s i n d u s t r y- r e n ow n e d standard for quality, a standard that dates back to its founding in 1984. As Australia’s longest standard Australian plate boat brand, it is a heritage of boating excellence that comes next to none. The latest release in the Yellowfin lineup now signifying the next step in the brand’s legacy. The two Extended Cabin models – YF-70 and YF-76 – will land in the Yellowfin range on Thursday May 23 and be available to purchase from any Yellowfin dealer. With sixteen exclusive dealers located nationwide, the brand is invested in making Yellowfin Plate boats available to all Australians. Take your boating game to the next level with the Yellowfin Extended Cabin, now available from yellow finplateboats.com.au local dealers.

Bar Crusher introduced a new range of premium hull colours across its line-up, including Nitro Blue.

Exclusive Bar Crusher colours

AR Crusher introduced a new range of premium hull colours across its line-up. Inspired by automotive brands, and the result of a collaboration with its long-time paint supplier, the new colour range complements the recent update of Bar Crusher hull graphics to set these fishing weapons even further ahead of the pack. The exclusive colour range includes Stealth Grey, Venom Green, Nitro Blue, Inferno Orange, Blade Grey,

Shockwave Blue, Ebony Black and Bar Crusher White. All colours are available in traditional high gloss and a new satin finish. Available on every model from the 535 series right through to the 780 series, these new-look Bar Crushers will be in dealerships soon and on display throughout the 2024 national boat show circuit. Check out Bar Crusher’s online boat builder to personalise your fishing weapon.

The full range of colours now available on every model Bar Crusher. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 63

BOATING & marine

Raymarine has joined forces with ePropulsion, the global leader in marine electric propulsion systems and services.

Raymarine collaborates with ePropulsion

A The Axiom engine dashboard allows boaters to monitor the ePropulsion motor’s battery level, speed, gear and estimated range.

This seamless integration allows boaters to monitor data and status updates directly on Axiom’s engine dashboard application. Page 64 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

GLOBAL leader in high-performance marine electronics for the recreational boating, marine first responder and law enforcement market, Raymarine announced recently that it had joined forces with ePropulsion, the global leader in marine electric propulsion systems and services. Through this revolutionary collaboration, boaters can now display engine data from their ePropulsion electric motors directly on Axiom displays, without the need for additional gateways or add-on interface boxes. ePropulsion is the pioneering electric engine manufacturer to adopt the new NMEA 2000 standards for electric engines, and Raymarine’s recently released LightHouse 4.6 operating system for Axiom chartplotters made it the

first to support electric motor PGN messages. This seamless integration allows boaters to monitor data and status updates directly on Axiom’s engine dashboard application. The Axiom engine dashboard allows boaters to monitor the ePropulsion motor’s battery level, speed, gear and estimated range. For additional simplicity, a dynamic range ring overlays on the chartplotter display, making it easy to visualise current cruising range and optimise energy consumption. This new functionality is available on ePropulsion X-Series outboards and I-Series inboard motors and compatible Raymarine Axiom displays. Raymarine general manager Grégoire Outters said, “It’s always been important for us to provide users with

all the information they may need to make their on-the-water experience as smooth as possible.” ePropulsion co-founder and chief executive officer Danny Tao said, “We have worked hard to lead the industry in making electric propulsion more accessible.” “The engineering team at Raymarine have been so supportive in incorporating the vital data from our engines to give both of our customers a seamless and intuitive engine data display. “We are very proud to work with Raymarine in this effort and we know that the results will speak for themselves.” Learn more about Raymarine Axiom, raymarine.com/en-au/ our-products/chartplot ters/axiom For more information on ePropulsion or its revolutionary electric motors and accessories, visit ePropulsion.com

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TRADING POST QUINTREX 420 BUSTA – Affordable and well equipped for the money! This terrific little tinnie is well suited to everyone, from the family to those who love to fish. This Quintrex 4.20 Busta, 30hp Suzuki fourstroke outboard package is well worth a look. With registration to January 2025, it certainly won’t last long in the yard. $13,990. Contact AMC Boats on 07 3808 7333 or visit amcboats.com.au

nels and some serious appointments, this really is set up for battle. A 2024 replacement model is north of $130k. With only 129 hours on the Mercury 135hp and host of options, this boat will suit the most demanding of anglers. $79,990. Contact AMC Boats on 07 3808 7333 or visit amcboats. com.au STESSCO BREEZAWAY 480 – A terrific little fishing boat that won’t break the bank to run. Built in Australia, these boats cater very well to Australian conditions and lifestyles. Perfect for inshore or light offshore use, just drop the anchor, throw in a line, relax and wait for the fish to find you. Or grab the family and head out for a day of fun on the water. This boat has been very STACER SEA MASTER 429 – This awesome well looked after and is in very tidy condirunabout allows you to try your hand at fish- tion. $45,990. Contact AMC Boats on 07 ing, day boating, social tow sports and more. 3808 7333 or visit amcboats.com.au It’s a smart-looking but functional boat with lots of practical features. It is bound to suit BOATS WANTED your every need, with plenty of space for its WE WANT LATE MODEL CASH OR size and quality performance. It has been CONSIGNMENT very well looked after and with only 71 hours on the Yamaha 50hp outboard, this SELL YOUR BOAT – through JCM and boat is an absolute must have. $24,990. Con- avoid the hassles and ‘phishers’ associated tact AMC Boats on 07 3808 7333 or visit am with a private sale! Seeking premium concboats.com.au dition trailer boats to purchase outright for a quick sale or broker on your behalf. ADVERTISERS – To organise a classi- JCM is seeking Quintrex, Signature, Cruise fied ad in the Trading Post, call 07 3286 Craft, Stacer, Surtees, Stessco, Sea Jay, Bar 1833 or complete the form and post Crusher and Baysport boats. Phone 07 it to the address provided or email it 3890 2322 or visit www.johncrawfordma through to ads@collins.media rine.com.au Celebrating 60 years in 2024. www.johncrawfordmarine.com.au

SAVE THE TIME AND HASSLE OF SELLING PRIVATELY - WE’LL BUY IT ON THE SPOT!*

BOWRIDERS TINNIES HALF CABINS RUNABOUTS CENTRE CONSOLES

07 3890 2322 | 1031 Manly Rd Tingalpa

BAR CRUSHER 730HT – One of Australia’s favourite boat brands, the 730HT is a dedicated and very capable bluewater sportfishing boat that can also morph easily into a terrific family boat. It cleverly combines protection from the elements and provides great visibility forward through its full height toughened glass windscreen. It’s big and solid enough for serious offshore fishing yet isn’t overly heavy to tow or power. Like most alloy boats, it’s easy to clean and look after. $124,990. Contact AMC Boats on 07 3808 7333 or visit amcboats.com.au

GOLDSTAR SEASTAR 5700 CUDDY CABIN – Goldstar boats are a top tier Western Australian custom plate boat builder located in Perth. This highly revered brand is designed by award winning naval architect, Dave Jackman. We rarely see them in Queensland waters, but this superbly built rig is perfect for the long runs out to the reefs. This 2022 model is built like a tank, with 5mm plate bottom and 4mm sides. With a grey acid washed finish, wide gunwww.bnbfishing.com.au

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 65

Barry Nalder nailed a flathead that ate a 3” Z-Man Slim SwimZ.

Pearl perch from the front of Double Island Point were on fire before the closure.

a For

ll yo

a t in g ur bo

& f s h in g n e e d s .

• Kayak Hire • Fishing Rod Hire • On water 24hr fuel • Full range of chandlery • Paints & antifouls • Bait • Tackle • Ice • LPG All the BIG brands right here in Tin Can Bay!

Shop 1 The Marina, Emperor St. Tin Can Bay, QLD 4580 e - chandlery@bigpond.com www.tcbchandlery.com.au

Page 66 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

A proud dad moment watching Howard land his first lure-caught slatey bream.

Tin Can turns it on G ’DAY crew, as always, I hope you’re keeping well and warm. At the time of writing, it was a chilly day, so the Uggies were well and truly on. The past couple of weeks have felt like it’s winter, particularly in the evening and first thing in the morning, though during the day was warm and sunny. Let’s hope the winter weather patterns settle in and we can all get out to enjoy the beautiful Great Sandy Strait. As some of you may or may not be aware, the new zoning for the Great Sandy Strait came into effect on May 21 and there have been a number of changes to do with zoning in the marine park. In short, there are some more green zones that have been added, extensions of ‘go slow zones’ and ‘no motorised traversing’, changes to the number of rods and reels you can use at any one time, along with some changes for the commercial sector. If you require more information, you can log on to the DPI website or scan the QR code. Alternatively, pop into

Tin Can Bay

by CHRIS RIPPON

the shop, grab an information brochure and have a chat about it with our friendly staff. What I will say is that everyone using our waterways should download the new Marine Parks Southern Qld app. It’s simple to use and will notify you if you come within 10m of a new zone. The old signage has been removed and is not going to be reinstated, so as the skipper, you are responsible for your vessel. Anyway, let’s talk about the fun stuff… fishing and what was

caught over the past few weeks. With the weather starting to show signs of settling down, offshore fishos have made the most of any windows and sent it out wide. Snapper and pearl perch filled Eskies pre-closure, along with good catches of tuskfish, stripies, cobia, tuna and dolphinfish off the fish aggregating device, and a few spanish mackerel came from trolled lures or slow trolled bait. We had a great overnight trip there a few weeks back and came * continued P68

The author with a nice 78cm flathead from Tin Can Bay.

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GREAT SANDY MARINE PARK, QUEENSLAND

Know the new zones and designated areas Zones and designated areas changed in the Great Sandy Marine Park on 21 May 2024.

Scan for marine park maps and free app

Heading out on the water? Check up-to-date marine park maps and rules on your mobile device. display your location. see what zone and/or designated area you’re in and what activities are allowed or prohibited.

get notifications as you travel through different zones and areas. for use on your smartphone or tablet (IOS or Android). Can be used outside of mobile range.

works for the Great Sandy Marine Park and Moreton Bay Marine Park. Zoning information also available on the Qld Fishing 2.0 app.

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 67

Tin Can Bay turns it on * from P66

Shane Kimlin captured a sunrise spanish mackerel.

The author boated a solid trout on PE gear.

home with a good feed of all of the above, as well as a nice coral trout and a couple of red emperor. We had an insane session on the northern FAD, tossing stickbaits at dollies. There were three-way hook ups, fish jumping over lines, lures thrown as they got airborne and then those same lures being smashed by other fish. It was total and utter chaos – like macrame gone wrong – so much fun! Back inshore at Tin Can Bay and nice grass sweetlip were caught in and around the moored boats from Norman Point to Crab Creek, together with a few legal snapper. Nothing big on the snapper front, yet it’s good to see some legal 40cm sized fish being caught in the bay. Fresh squid bait and pillies have worked exceptionally well, as have lightly weighted grub tail soft plastics. A standout for us was our new favourite, the

Luke Page and Shane jigged up a couple of pre-closure pearl perch out the front of Double Island Point. Page 68 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

3.5” Biwaa TailGunR Curly. This lure has been accounting for many fish over the past few months and is a must have in the tacklebox. Rigged on a 3/0 TT Fishing ChinlockZ at whatever weight you need and it’s game on. On the flats and around the drop-off, flathead are in good numbers, with many fish in the 40-50cm range and some high 60cm sizes hitting the deck. I’ve been doing a lot of flatty fishing recently and my son has been frothing it. I’ve not spent this much time chasing flatties in years and had forgotten how much fun it was. We’ve been giving the new Samaki 70mm Live Shrimps a good run and they’ve made some good waves, and not only on our boat – plenty of customers have raved about them. You get two in a pack for $15.95 – that’s a pair of pre-rigged 1/4oz prawn lures that are tough as and last fish after fish. It’s a sweet deal and knowing they catch fish is an added bonus. Lizards are easily accessible, in fact prolific in our waterways. They readily woof

down your offering and would have to be the easiest fish to target on lures. They also taste great. For me though, seeing my child out there having a ball – and potentially finding a passion for the thing I’m so obsessed and fervent about that I’ve made a career out of it – is just awesome. Mud crabs were about in decent numbers, though from all accounts you need to pick through the B and C-grade stuff to find the quality. Meanwhile, sand crabs have been in very good condition and quantities, with fishos crabbing around Carlo Point and the surrounding water, picking up plenty of quality crabs. As a thank you for sorting out their sounder issues, one of our lovely customers dropped a couple off the other day. How yummy are sandies? Well, that’s enough from me this month. Take it easy, stay warm and we will see you in the shop or out on the water. Take care and tight lines. The Chandlery Bait and Tackle for all your boating and fishing needs.

This cobia hoovered the author’s offering of a Palms Slow Blatt S midwater.

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Mike managed a nice school longtail tuna.

Light tackle fishing action

YPICAL winter species have started to move and it’s exciting to think I’ll probably have a few more months of less shark activity. Many local fishos have been catching bream, flathead and squid. While for me, as expected, the larger surface schools of tuna seem to have slowed, hopefully they will hang around through to July. They haven’t been too hard to tempt most days, however the fish in the Great Sandy

Huw boated a powerful little mack tuna.

Fraser Guided Fishing by TRI TON

Strait aren’t as easy as those up in Platypus Bay. Usually, a slukk or heavy jig head rigged softy will do the trick in both areas. The tuna should stay around, though in winter they are often spotted on the sounder down deeper. The smaller numbers of tuna mean we can target fish with lighter tackle because the other species aren’t as dogged as tuna and are easily

subdued with 20lb braid. But the occasional tuna and extra-large cobia will definitely push a few anglers to their limits when we do hook them on smaller rods. While I am here, let me make this clear… a 30kg cobia is not as tough a battle as a 20kg longtail tuna. * continued P70

> Hervey Bay > Fraser Island > Sandy Strait

Lee captured his first big fish.

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

Joe hooked his first tuna.

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www.fraserguidedfishing.com.au > 0427 230 261 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 69

Light tackle fishing action * from P69

Tide Times

AUSTRALIA EAST COAST WADDY POINT 2024 2024 ONG ONG153° 153°21ʼ 21ʼEE

DDY DDYPOINT POINT(FRASER (FRASERISLAND) ISLAND)

gh ighand andLow LowWaters Waters

me mm me

JULY JULY

Time Time mm

Time Time

Time TimeZone Zone –1000 –1000 AUGUST AUGUST

Time Time

m m

Time Time

m m

326 26 1.54 1.54 011 11 0.77 0.77 701 01 1.57 1.57 241 1.02 41 1.02

0326 0353 0353 1.52 1.52 0326 1.29 1.29 0950 1009 1009 0.69 0.69 0950 0.77 0.77 1719 1.65 1708 1.76 1708 1.76 1719 1.65 MO TU MO TU 2344 2324 2324 0.95 0.95 2344 1.00 1.00

0101 0101 0.83 0.83 0619 0619 1.27 1.27 1139 0.72 1139 0.72 TH TH 1841 1841 1.98 1.98

16 16

417 1.47 17 1.47 042 0.71 42 0.71 744 1.68 44 1.68 340 0.97 40 0.97

0458 0431 0458 1.43 1.43 0431 1.23 1.23 1055 1037 1055 0.67 0.67 1037 0.73 0.73 1759 1.90 1.90 WE 1802 1.75 1.75 TU TU1759 WE1802

0139 0139 0.76 0.76 0709 0709 1.31 1.31 1227 0.66 0.66 FR FR 1227 1924 1924 2.03 2.03

0054 0.70 0.70 17 17 0054 0624 0624 1.21 1.21 1155 0.60

503 1.40 03 1.40 112 0.67 12 0.67 821 1.78 21 1.78

0034 0.89 0.89 0036 0.92 0.92 0208 0.70 0.70 0130 0.58 0.58 330034 330208 180036 18 0130 0600 1.37 0600 0533 0749 0706 1.37 18 0533 1.20 1.20 0749 1.37 1.37 18 0706 1.30 1.30

16 16

17 17

1140 0.65 0.65 WE1140 WE 1845 2.02 1845 2.02

1123 0.69 0.69 TH TH1123 1840 1840 1.85 1.85

1312 0.60 0.60 SA SA 1312 2004 2004 2.06 2.06

0017 0017 0.83 0.83 0523 0523 1.14 1.14 1103 0.70 1103 0.70 FR FR 1809 1809 1.84 1.84

SA SA 1155 0.60 1849 1849 1.96 1.96

1240 0.49 0.49 SU SU 1240 1927 1927 2.06 2.06

029 0.92 29 0.92 548 1.35 48 1.35 144 0.63 44 0.63 854 1.88 54 1.88

0130 0.82 0.82 0130 0657 1.36 1.36 0657 1226 0.62 0.62 TH1226 TH 1930 2.10 2.10 1930

115 0.87 15 0.87 631 1.32 31 1.32 218 0.60 18 0.60 928 1.97 28 1.97

0215 0.76 0.76 0157 0.73 0.73 0312 0.64 0.64 0239 0.39 0.39 200157 550215 550312 20 0239 0749 1.37 1.37 20 0718 0749 0901 0824 0718 1.25 1.25 0901 1.44 1.44 20 0824 1.50 1.50

1314 0.61 0.61 FR1314 FR 2015 2.15 2.15 2015

158 0.81 58 0.81 713 1.32 13 1.32 255 0.57 55 0.57 003 2.05 03 2.05

0258 0.71 0.71 0235 0.63 0258 0235 0.63 0837 1.40 1.40 0801 1.31 0837 0801 1.31 1401 0.61 0.61 SU 1336 0.51 0.51 SA1401 SU 1336 SA 2059 2.15 2.15 2033 2.12 2.12 2059 2033

243 0.75 43 0.75 758 1.34 58 1.34 337 0.56 37 0.56 043 2.11 43 2.11

0340 0.71 0.71 0314 0.56 0.56 0415 0.70 0.70 0351 0.37 0.37 220314 770340 77 0415 22 0351 0921 1.40 1.40 22 0846 1.38 1.38 0921 0846 1004 0952 1004 1.43 1.43 22 0952 1.65 1.65

1446 0.64 0.64 MO 1420 0.47 0.47 SU1446 MO 1420 SU 2142 2.10 2.10 2116 2.17 2.17 2142 2116

1536 0.67 0.67 WE WE 1536 2218 2218 1.82 1.82

1535 0.47 0.47 TH TH 1535 2213 2213 1.98 1.98

328 0.70 28 0.70 848 1.36 48 1.36 422 0.57 22 0.57 128 2.14 28 2.14

0420 0.73 0.73 0420 1001 1.39 1.39 1001 1525 0.69 0.69 MO1525 MO 2221 2.02 2.02 2221

0443 0443 0.74 0.74 1035 1.42 1035 1.42 1611 0.75 0.75 TH 1611 TH 2247 1.72 2247 1.72

0430 0430 0.43 0.43 1041 1041 1.69 1.69 1628 0.62 0.62 FR FR 1628 2258 2258 1.81 1.81

415 0.66 15 0.66 940 1.37 40 1.37 510 0.61 10 0.61 217 2.13 17 2.13

0457 0.78 0.78 0435 0.51 0.51 0510 0.76 0511 0.76 0511 0.52 0.52 24 0435 990457 99 0510 1035 1.36 1.36 24 1020 1.47 1.47 1113 1.42 1.42 24 1134 1035 1020 1113 1134 1.71 1.71

0118 0.82 0.82 0239 0.66 0.66 0204 0.47 0.47 19 440239 190118 19 0204 0827 0629 0745 0629 1.21 1.21 0827 1.42 1.42 19 0745 1.40 1.40 1208 0.63 0.63 FR FR1208 1916 1916 1.94 1.94

1252 0.57 0.57 SA 1252 SA 1954 1954 2.04 2.04

21 21

0354 0.51 0.51 0354 0932 1.44 1.44 0932 1507 0.48 0.48 TU 1507 TU 2201 2.15 2.15 2201

23 23

1602 0.75 0.75 WE 1554 0.55 0.55 TU 1602 WE 1554 TU 2254 1.92 1.92 2247 2.08 2.08 2254 2247

1353 0.56 0.56 MO 1322 0.40 0.40 SU SU 1353 MO 1322 2042 2006 2042 2.04 2.04 2006 2.14 2.14

1431 0.57 0.57 MO MO 1431 2118 2118 1.99 1.99

1404 0.35 0.35 TU TU 1404 2046 2046 2.16 2.16

0345 0314 0345 0.66 0.66 0314 0.36 0.36 0933 0907 0933 1.44 1.44 0907 1.58 1.58 1504 0.60 0.60 WE 1448 0.38 0.38 TU TU 1504 WE 1448 2150 2128 2150 1.91 1.91 2128 2.11 2.11

21 21

1653 0.85 0.85 FR 1653 FR 2317 1.61 1.61 2317

23 23

1734 0.79 0.79 SA SA 1734 2346 2346 1.60 1.60

503 0.66 03 0.66 035 1.37 35 1.37 600 0.67 00 0.67 308 2.08 08 2.08

0532 0.83 0.83 0518 0.54 0.54 0540 0.78 0.78 0555 0555 0.61 0.61 100532 25 0518 10 0540 10 1110 1.34 1.34 25 1110 1.49 1.49 10 1159 1.43 1.43 25 1239 1159 1110 1110 1239 1.72 1.72 1639

552 0.68 52 0.68 132 1.36 32 1.36 652 0.74 52 0.74

0607 0.85 0.85 0602 0.60 0.60 0613 0.79 0.79 0043 1.41 0043 1.41 110607 26 0602 11 0613 11 1153 1.33 1.33 26 1207 1.50 1.50 11 1258 1.44 1.44 26 0649 0649 0.71 1153 1207 1258 0.71 1724 0.89

0.82 WE 1639 0.82 WE 2327 1.82 1.82 2327

1644 0.65 0.65 TH 1644 TH 2334 1.95 1.95 2334

1746 0.95 0.95 SA 1746 SA 2348 1.50 1.50 2348

1904 0.93 0.93 SU 1904 SU

TH 1724 0.89 TH

1742 0.79 0.79 FR 1742 FR

1858 1.05 1.05 MO 1401 1.74 1.74 SU 1858 MO 1401 SU 2103 0.97 0.97 2103

0003 1.72 1.72 0003 0645 0.86 0.86 0645 1251 1.34 1.34 FR 1251 FR 1819 0.97 0.97 1819

0023 1.78 1.78 0023 0650 0.66 0.66 0650 1313 1.53 1.53 SA 1313 SA 1856 0.92 0.92 1856

0024 1.38 1.38 0024 0650 0.81 0.81 0650 1414 1.47 1.47 MO 1414 MO 2041 1.09 1.09 2041

000 1.99 00 1.99 642 0.70 42 0.70 233 1.37 33 1.37 749 0.82 49 0.82

12 12

052 1.89 52 1.89 734 0.72 34 0.72 342 1.41 42 1.41 855 0.91 55 0.91

0043 1.62 1.62 0116 1.60 1.60 0109 1.26 1.26 0350 1.20 1.20 0109 0350 13 0043 28 0116 13 0728 0.85 0.85 28 0741 0.71 0.71 13 0735 0735 0.82 0.82 28 0918 0918 0.82 0.82 0728 0741 1407 1.37 1436 1.60

147 1.77 47 1.77 827 0.72 27 0.72 500 1.49 00 1.49 019 0.97 19 0.97

0129 1.50 1.50 0224 1.43 1.43 0228 1.16 1.16 0517 1.22 1.22 0517 0228 14 0129 29 0224 14 0814 0.83 0.83 29 0839 0.75 0.75 14 0837 0837 0.81 0.81 29 1032 1032 0.79 0.79 0814 0839 1523 1.45 1554 1.70

248 1.64 48 1.64 919 0.71 19 0.71 611 1.62 11 1.62 157 0.99 57 0.99

0223 1.39 1.39 0347 1.31 1.31 0400 1.12 1.12 0039 0.74 0.74 0400 0039 15 0223 30 0347 15 0902 0.80 0.80 30 0943 0.77 0.77 15 0956 0956 0.78 0.78 30 0612 0612 1.29 1.29 0902 0943 1628 1.54 1659 1.81 1725

SA 1407 1.37 SA 1928 1.04 1.04 1928

27 27

SU 1436 1.60 SU 2040 1.01 1.01 2040

SU 1523 1.45 MO MO 1554 1.70 SU 2057 1.08 1.08 2239 1.00 1.00 2057 2239

MO 1628 1.54 MO 2234 1.07 1.07 2234

TU 1659 1.81 TU

0005 0.92 0.92 31 0005 31 0512 1.26 1.26 0512 1044 0.76 WE 1044 0.76 WE 1755 1.91 1.91 1755

12 12

0208 1.26 1.26 0208 0757 0.79 0.79 0757 1524 1.79 1.79 TU 1524 TU 2252 0.90 0.90 2252

1530 1.53 1.53 WE 1635 1.84 1.84 TU 1530 WE 1635 TU 2228 1.05 1.05 2358 0.82 0.82 2228 2358

1634 1.62 1.62 WE 1634 WE 2333 0.95 0.95 2333 1.72 TH 1725 1.72 TH

1733 1.89 1.89 TH 1733 TH

1129 0.73 0.73 FR 1129 FR 1819 1.92 1.92 1819

0107 0.69 0.69 31 0107 0651 1.35 1.35 0651 1214 0.65 0.65 SA 1214 SA 1857 1.93 1.93 1857

ureau of Meteorology Meteorology reau of New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

Last Quarter

First Quarter Quarter First

Full Moon Moon Full

Last Quarter Last

Page 70 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

17 17

My friend mackerel has been a regular catch and are still putting the runs in the Esky, even though sometimes they are painful and steal all our lures. They certainly had their day a few times lately. School mackerel are best taken with fast retrieves and slukks. This style certainly decreases lure loss, and the cheap price of the lures makes losing the occasional one OK. But in winter, we are often drifting a soft lure, jig or vibe down, and then… snip, and by the species we were probably trying not to catch. A few smaller snapper were about in the northern end of the Great Sandy Strait. Wafting light soft plastics at low light periods is a good start to putting you in with a chance. Light leaders are ideal – I would probably suggest a 15-20lb leader and a 10g jig head for most areas 12m and over. Also in there are good numbers of flatties, in shallow channels on flats and in creeks. Big dusky flathead might require a fairly heavy leader, as they can swallow the lure and can result in a bite off. Flatties are a great way to spend a windy day, especially if you want a feed. There are so many places you can catch one. I would use the same tackle as for snapper, though lean towards the heavier side for the leader because they aren’t leader shy. Another estuary fish is the humble bream.

These are for the more advanced anglers. They take more skill to tempt but are fun on the right tackle. They are also excellent for honing many skills, as you can target them in many ways. Most commonly caught by lurers on soft lures and small hard-bodies, they will also take a topwater as well. If you suck at catching fish on surface lures, bream will definitely make you more frustrated… or more adept. These aren’t something I target often, yet in my eyes they are a great adversary. And for clients with the right mindset about fishing, they provide skills to them – though they would never learn

targeting tuna from fishing this species. During winter, I will also target trevally species, such as brassy, and they can be found in big numbers. They can sometimes exceed 70cm, becoming a handful at that size. Hanging out in these schools are often queenfish, tuna, snapper, diamond and golden trevally, grunter and big cobia. I often target these fish with small plastics and small jigs. Sometimes soft vibration lures work well too, when the bite is tough. Hopefully the weather improves and I can do some of what I have scribed, without starting the day covered in vinyl.

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Brodie targeted fingermark in the harbour and scored with this extra-large fish.

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Page 72 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

E’RE in the second month of winter and the temperature has dropped, bringing the water temperature down with it. Now’s the time to be on the water chasing those winter fish such as blue salmon, bream, flathead and black jewfish. Longer periods of little to no wind have allowed for more time on the water. It might be hard to get up before the sun rises on a cold winter’s morning, but it can be worthwhile. The days are still warm and usually, by morning tea, you’re back into shorts and a shirt for the rest of the day. Fishing late afternoon and early evening will see the water temperature jump a little, especially if low tide was around midday, letting the sand and mud banks heat up. This is the best time to target barramundi and mangrove jack, as the slight increase in temperature can trigger them to feed.

Gladstone Region by GARY CHURCHWARD

Live bait will be a good way to actively target the fish that prefer warmer water. Yet expect to spend some extra time in each location because it may take a while to get a reaction bite from these fish. If you’re using lures, persistence is key. It will take more casts in the same spot or more passes over the rock bar to get the bite. On the other hand, blue salmon should be firing with the cooler weather and can be found feeding on the schools of herring moving through the systems. They will be moving around in schools of both good numbers and good size – they’re an exciting fish to catch when actively feeding. I no longer chase salmon with bait over shallow flats, preferring to target schooling fish in deeper water on lures. Salmon will take al-

most any lure when feeding, but in deeper water, a 3-4” soft plastic vibe works best. Deeper sections of the Calliope River and Gladstone Harbour tend to hold the best schools – find where the bait is holding and salmon should be on the prowl close by. That’s not to say you won’t find them in schools on shallow flats. If you do find a school, a 100mm hard-body can have great results on these little torpedoes. You’ll find flathead will become more common as they school, getting ready to spawn in winter. If you come across a school, expect to catch plenty of smaller male flathead as they gather around larger females. They are easy lure options at this time of year, with a 65-100mm soft plastic or hard-body lure worked around * continued P73

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better Boyne Tannum HookUp 2024 Winter species fire up Bigger HE annual Boyne children the knowledge fishing practices while * from P72

a sandbank edge is rarely bypassed. If you’re a bream fan, they are bitting well, taking lures meant for other target species. By downsizing your presentation slightly, you can expect to catch more fish. Small 2.5” prawn or grub-style plastics are dynamite or, if you’re fishing deeper or fast-moving water, a small vibe will work too. Expect to come across some grunter while using these smaller lures, though if you want to effectively target this species, look for gravel banks. Winter whiting will be worth a shot over the next few months, with yabbies and fresh prawns the best bait choices. The entrance to the harbour has some good sand flats that hold good yabby banks, these are the best spots to start pumping. Fingermark will still be about, so don’t be surprised if an occasional fish is caught from under the salmon schools. However, for more consistent results,

rock bars and headlands will produce the better numbers and sizes. Don’t put the crab pots away either because you’ll get a few over winter – crabs found currently are typically full and of good quality. We finally had some nice weather windows with lighter wind for extended periods, allowing people to get out and head to the reefs. Coral trout and redthroat emperor made up many of the catches around the shallower reefs, with nannygai and the occasional red emperor coming from the deeper areas. Mackerel are on the chew around the region, with spanish, school and spotted mackerel all common captures. Tuna schools are on the move as they chase bait balls and most of these schools are mack tuna, with a school or two of bluefin tuna mixed in. Hopefully, we’ll see some more good weather periods over the coming months. Cheers and happy fishing from Gladstone.

A typical school-sized blue salmon from the Calliope River. www.bnbfishing.com.au

Tannum HookUp was once again held on the May Day long weekend, celebrating 29 years. It lived up to its reputation of being Australia’s biggest family fishing competition, offering over $450,000 in angler and promotional prizes, its biggest prize pool yet. Even with heavy rainfall in the fortnight leading up to and during the event, the persistent rain and wind over the weekend did not stop the dedicated crowd. With entrants representing every state in Australia, an estimated 28,000 people were through Bray Park, Boyne Island over the three-day event. Much loved favourites Andrew ‘Phippsy’ Phipps and David ‘Hodgey’ Hodge were back to enthusiastically host the weekend’s events, along with the dedicated committee who braved the elements, gumboots and all. Anglers still managed to weigh in over 1100 fish, with bream, whiting and blue threadfin and king threadfin salmon being the most caught, given the poor offshore conditions. The Boyne Tannum HookUp offered a great range of activities for the whole family, including amusements, information stalls, kids’ lure-throwing competitions, raffles, live music, food and drinks and a fantastic fireworks display on the Sunday night. This year, the event expanded its ‘Kids learn to fish’ sessions under the skilful guidance of Hodgey the barefoot fisho. Seventy-five kids participated in the five classes designed to give

and tools to go out fishing, with each participant receiving a rod and reel combo. New to the 2024 Hookup was the quickly sold-out ‘Ladies fish and sip’ sessions, a fun and friendly event where ladies were taught how to rig a line and learn some basics by Chris and Naomi’s Fishing and the Shimano crew with Dean Silvester. Unfortunately, with the inclement weather, they didn’t get to test their skills out, however many were more than happy to network with like-minded females and walk away with a new fishing rod and reel and the knowledge to hit the water confidently, when the weather improved. The Boyne Tannum HookUp committee is a keen advocate for encouraging families to get on the water, promoting sustainable

encouraging a focus on environmental impacts and education. The committee is already planning the big thirtieth anniversary celebration for next year’s event, from Friday May 2 to Sunday May 4, 2025. This will be a significant milestone for the event that started on the banks of the Boyne River, with a chalk leader board and a group of dedicated members who wanted to give people a reason to stay in town over a long weekend. As part of the celebration, the committee is asking for donations of historical photos for use as part of a visual history display. Past and long-term entrants are invited to email images through to enquiries@boynetan numhookup.com.au Keep up to date on the upcoming event on the Boyne Tannum Hookup Facebook page.

Kurt Sherwood (centre) was the first-ever winner of the new Elite Angler category, with his black jewfish of 140cm weighing in at 22.09kg.

Winner Coen Mensforth (front right) from Boyne Island in the major promotional senior prize of a Sea Jay 590 Titan with 150hp Yamaha motor and Outta Range Marine electronics package, valued at over $112,000. Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 73

Estuary javelin fish are a great winter option. Luke Peisker with a solid local model.

Suspending hard-body lures such as this Lucky Craft Pointer for winter barramundi is a great way to slow your retrieve down.

Cool barra fishing challenge accepted

Winter fingermark can still be caught, with some patience.

The author’s son Braxy with a solid winter flathead from Corio Bay. Page 74 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

E are now moving into the middle of winter, which means summer species such as barramundi, threadfin salmon and fingermark will be a lot tougher to get on deck. Not impossible, but more effort will definitely be required. If you think about it, it does sound a bit left field if you’re wanting to chase warm water species when the water is cold. Though just because the season has changed, doesn’t mean you completely write them off. If you’re like me and enjoy a challenge, then winter barra fishing is something you should try. It won’t be easy, and it will make any angler use their brain a little more than normal. There are a few techniques I’ve found that make a difference. Use these as a starting point and then build on them. Let’s start with slow retrieves and finesse fishing. With less active fish, it really does make sense to slow your retrieves down. Keeping lures in front

Capricorn Coast by JOHN BOON

of the fish longer will greatly increase your chances of getting a bite. If you’re using suspending hard-body lures, this technique can be fairly easy to achieve. If using soft plastics, you will need to take into account the boat position, speed of the current and your cast angle. Too heavy and the lure will sink too quickly. Too light and the tide will sweep your presentation away. It will take a bit of trial and error to get things right, though once your experience grows, it will be a lot easier to sum the conditions up and pull the right jig head out when you move spots. When we talk about finesse fishing, we mean downsizing everything to get the bite. Downsize the leader – a lot of anglers don’t believe in barra being leader shy – downsize your plastics and downsize jig head weights when you can. Finesse fishing will also include how you approach an area.

If you pull into your secret spot with a noisy two-stroke rattling away or baby elephants running around the boat, how effective do you think your fishing is going to be? Turn the motor off a good 500m from the location and creep in as quietly as you can on the electric. The more those barra think the environment is natural, the more likely they are to feed. Remember, stealth is key. One final tip for winter saltwater barra, if all else has failed, is to get yourself some good live prawns. Live prawns for barramundi are like offering us a small piece of mud cake. You could be full from eating, but you will always find room for mud cake. Putting a live prawn right on the nose of a barra is a highly effective winter technique. If you’re not into toughing it out for barramundi, there are * continued P76

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Cool barra fishing * from P74

plenty of other options. Right on cue, the bigger flathead have turned up. Speaking with anglers who fish Corio Bay, flathead over 70cm have been quite common, especially for those who fish there a lot. My goal this winter is to try to crack a lizard over 80cm. And remember, dusky flathead have a maximum size of 75cm and at this time of year, most of the big models will be female, so take a feed and not a fridge full. While we still haven’t had those stable weeks of winter yet, the small windows that did appear have been taken advantage of. Anglers fishing around the islands have been doing well on tiger squid and also mackerel. Spanish mackerel have been quite a common capture, with thick schools of both spotted and school not too difficult to locate. The smaller mackeral have taken a liking to floating or trolled garfish. A small Flasha lure retrieved at high speed has been another successful technique. Island spanish have

been caught on trolled wolf herring and also trolled hard-body lures, such as Rapala X-Rap. Even with the colder water temperatures, good trout have been caught around the islands, with the rocky points and outcrops the places to be. Look for where the bait schools are hanging. If you can find some reliable bait holding ground, make sure you pull in and send some bait jigs down. With the extra boat pressure around the islands, live bait can sometimes save the day. Talking with the anglers who made it out wide has resulted in mixed reports. Some boats did well, while others struggled. A standout observation was that the fishos who put the extra effort into getting fresh bait have been getting the better results. Fresh slab bait and a tank full of live bait puts you in the box seat for a successful day. Well, that’s it from me this month. Despite the cooler weather, make sure you get out on the water and, if you can take the kids with you, that’s an added bonus. We all need a bit of therapy.

A typical winter flathead caught by the author from an exposed drain. Page 76 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

Students diligently secured viable seeds to bamboo stakes, which were implanted into the muddy substrate during low tide.

OzFish mangrove restoration project

E C E N T LY, OzFish Unlimited joined forces with primary school students in a habitat restoration project aimed at revitalising the mangrove forests nestled within Hastings Foreshore, Westernport Bay in Victoria. The students engaged in an immersive classroom session exploring the significance of mangroves, delving into their growth mechanisms and understanding their pivotal role in preserving the environment and supporting fish productivity. Subsequently, they translated their knowledge into practical action by embarking on a restoration project outdoors. Students got stuck in, with the day encompassing a series of tasks, starting with the collection of mangrove seeds followed by their preparation. Students were taught the John Eddy restoration method, which required each viable seed to be diligently secured to bamboo stakes.

These prepared stakes were then strategically implanted into the muddy substrate during low tide, precisely targeting areas witnessing decline. Mangroves are vital ecosystems, providing habitat for diverse marine life and acting as natural barriers against erosion and storms. However, they are declining due to human activities such as coastal development and pollution, exacerbated by climate change. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect these crucial ecosystems. The ongoing restoration project holds significant importance for the region, representing a collaborative long term revitalisation project involving OzFish, local primary schools and dedicated volunteers spanning several years. Their collective mission aims to reclaim lost mangrove forests along the foreshore, revitalising vital coastal ecosystems. OzFish volunteers and

the school students will closely monitor the new seedlings, conducting vegetation surveys to determine the success rate of their plantings. Projects such as this serve as platforms for OzFish to actively engage with the local community, fostering awareness about the environmental significance of mangrove habitats. Beyond ecological benefits, these efforts highlight the relationship between healthy mangroves, healthy communities and enhanced fishing opportunities. Iconic species such as King George whiting, snapper and flathead thrive within these restored habitats, underlining the connection of both ecosystems and local economies. Involving school students in environmental activities such as this fosters ocean literacy, enhancing awareness and understanding of marine ecosystems to support restoration into the future. OzFish Unlimited

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HE Lawler Labor Government continues to support recreational fishers through the Barramundi Stocking Program with Top End lakes and lagoons set to be teeming with thousands of barramundi this dry season. Recently, 100 juvenile barra were released in the Palmerston Recreational Fishing Lakes ahead of the Hooked on Palmerston fishing competition that kicked off in early June. The team at Darwin Aquaculture Centre breed barra fingerlings as part of the Territo-

ry Government’s $50 million RecFishing Futures Program to restock Manton Dam and some of the lakes around Palmerston. The barra are released into waterways where they would not usually occur, such as isolated lakes, lagoons and dams, providing easyto-access and safe landbased fishing opportunities where fishos of all ages and abilities can participate in this iconic pastime. The released barra are tagged and monitored by NT Fisheries to understand recapture rates and the success of

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the stocking program. Minister for Recreational Fishing, Joel Bowden said, “The Territory Labor Government understands the importance and value of recreational fishing, it’s a way of life for many Territorians and a huge draw card to visitors, contributing $270 million directly and indirectly to the Territory economy each year.” City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell said, “Hooked On Palmerston is back for its fourth season, running from June to September, and we’re thrilled to offer over $4000 in local business vouchers as prizes.” “This competition not only promotes recreational fishing but also strengthens our local economy and brings our community together,” she said. Amateur Fishermen’s Association of the Northern Territory Inc chief executive officer David Ciaravolo said, “It is great to see barramundi stocking continuing in the Palmerston Lakes, with these areas now becoming popular with the local community.” Anglers who catch a tagged fish are encouraged to report their catch by visiting afant. com.au or calling the hotline on 1800 456 410. In 2024, a total of 115,500 barramundi will be released in Palmerston Recreational Fishing Lakes and Manton Dam to support strong, sustainable and diverse recreational fishing opportunities. To find out more about recreational fishing, visit nt.gov.au/ma rine/recreational-fish ing

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Suntag moving forward after receiving grant from DAF

UNTAG uses tagging, catch, competition, climate, environmental and other data through dashboards to provide a near real-time view of what is happening below the water, to understand what the fish are doing, and above the water, to understand what fishers are doing. Currently there are 65 dashboards in Queensland with over 2000 maps and graphs that help make that picture. None of that would be possible without funding. Suntag recently received a grant from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries through the Queensland’s Community Fishing Grants Program, which will allow it to continue to grow in 2024-25.

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It is also important to acknowledge the longtime involvement of DAF in providing support and funding since the start of Suntag 37 years ago. Where we’re at and what we do now would not be possible without that support. Over its lifetime, Suntag has acquired a multitude of interesting stories, such as a bass tagged in Lake Somerset in 1997 and recaptured 26 years later in 2023, still in Somerset – and we were able to track the tagger down to let him know. A stocked barramundi released in Lake Theresa at Clermont in Central Queensland that had travelled down the Fitzroy River, then north along the coast to the Proserpine River, having moved 1050km.

The speckled javelin tagged in Pumicestone Passage and recaptured in Sydney Harbour over 800km south. The rock cod that was caught five times in one day. The barra that was recaptured 10 seconds after release in the Fitzroy River. The tailor that was tagged slightly south of Mackay, 700km north of K’gari. The tagger who reported himself as the species, having accidently tagged himself in the hand when reaching into his tag kit. There are plenty more stories from the over 1 million fish in the database. As interesting as those stories are, the real value of Suntag data is in the long timeline of information that allows

trends over time to be assessed, the immediacy of data that comes from recaptures and the information on what those tagging and those recapturing are doing. Not only are those details useful to Queensland Fisheries, they’re also of value to stocking groups, local councils, businesses catering to fishos, tourism bodies and natural resource and water managers. With the funding from

the DAF grants program and other supporters, Suntag will continue to provide a service to the fishing community and will continue to innovate and improve what it does. For further information, contact me on 0417 075 277 or bill@ infofishaustralia.com. au, or have a look at in fofishaustralia.com.au Bill Sawynok InfoFish Australia Suntag Australia

A recent recapture of a 132cm barramundi in the Fitzroy River that was tagged 14.5 years earlier in 2009 at 55cm.

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 79

Matthew Balke with a 68cm Murray cod.

Workshop considerations and a warmish winter

T has been about 25 years since the inception of the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme. We have been advised that the workshop meeting will take place at Murgon, July 26-28, which is central for most to travel. Here are five points that I request be included for the workshop meeting: • A discussion on where we are heading in freshwater – when do you stop the stocking of and the taking of brood stock from impoundments • Monetary wise, the total that has been collected from 2000 to 2024 via permit fees, with a breakdown handed out at the workshop • An audit report on funds collected from 2019 to 2024, with a full breakdown on yearly, concessional and weekly sales from the past

Glenlyon Dam by BRIAN DARE

five years to June 2024 as a handout at the Murgon workshop • Revisit the permit system and its yearly cost, with consideration given to a fixed 10-year cost at $36.50 annually and $10 for a weekly permit • Fisheries as we know it is currently under the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (or Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) banner, with any main targets aimed for being influenced by the farming sector’s input, so we need to have both commercial and recreational fishing under a separate roof – such as Department of Primary Industries Fisheries – with a completely individual identity to agriculture.

Page 80 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

These five points have been sent to freshwater fisheries and Mr Thomas Hart. I suggest, as you read this, that you have a think about what you require and contact your local fish stocking group, asking them to present your suggestions when they’re at the workshop. This past month has seen the movement of cod, with good results made in the catch and release format, as well as a few kept to be eaten. Yellowbelly and silver perch have been on the bite, with fish from 35cm to 50cm caught. Shrimp are the top bait at the moment, with blue claw crayfish (yabbies) next in line – the small size being the better choice.

If fishing Glenlyon Dam, I would advise keeping the following in mind: • For a morning fish run, be at your chosen location by 6am and fish through to 9.30am – back for a late breakfast • For the middle of the day, troll or cast from 11.45am to 3.15pm using spinnerbaits or lures of 9cm maximum or less • From 5.30pm to 8pm, use lights – no secret squirrel stuff, use running lights. All too often we hear of boats following tracks set during daylight hours, then at night, setting the same course with no lights on. Please, no secret squirrels. It’s nighttime… so sorry, no – no lights, no rescue – recovery will be the next day. Think about it! The timeframes on each of the storages will be different, depending

on your location. Another thing to keep in mind is the humidity, cloud cover and steamy conditions. This will bring cod up to near-surface locations. It’s the same for rivers that hold cod. Logs, big ledges, points near drop-offs, slightly outside of weed beds – locate these using sounders or with a good pair of sunglasses and looking down into the edges of weeded areas in rivers and dams. I have sat out in summer storms so that I could fish the locations mentioned, using a small blue tarp that folds down to nothing or a plastic poncho with a hood as protection from the rain. Give this a try and, if there are lightning strikes, put your head between your legs and… you know. * continued P81

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Workshop considerations * from P80

At the time of writing, we have about two and a half months to go until the closed season on Queensland river systems. You can still fish storages as fish will still be on the move during the closure. The following is some good news for all the cod-crazy anglers… Hot of the press! Stu Rowland called me on May 25, and we spoke about his book, The Codfather. I know a lot of anglers out there missed out on getting a full copy of his book. So, for all those who fish, talk and sleep Murray cod, here’s some good news for you. Stuart is putting out a reprint of the 220 pages of all you need to know about cod.

I was asked if I’d like to sell a few copies for him… um, yes thanks. Stuart’s wife Lyn had put the idea forward, suggesting he reprint the cod sections of the book. In the conversation we had about the number of copies to print, Stu said he’d do 500. “No,” was my answer. “Send me at least 1000 to sell.” Which has caused a dilemma, he now has to have a think about the quantity to reprint. This means we need those of you who wish to purchase a copy to let us know, so you don’t miss out. A major part of Stuart’s 30 years working with cod via NSW Fisheries and the knowledge he gained, the extract will be for all to use.

DAM LEVELS CURRENT AS OF 11/06/2024

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 FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

73 57 84 85 100 109 18 25 72 80 100 39 65 101 100 72 75 103 100 89 100 65 66 80 100 103 102 70 81 100

75 54 85 84 100 106 18 25 69 98 101 42 63 101 100 83 73 106 100 89 100 67 68 80 101 104 101 74 80 99

81 54 87 86 100 103 17 25 68 100 100 39 63 101 100 86 73 102 100 89 100 67 67 79 100 105 101 81 80 100

82 54 89 92 100 99 17 26 67 100 100 38 63 101 97 86 73 103 100 91 99 67 67 80 100 102 102 82 79 100

82 53 88 91 100 98 17 26 70 99 100 37 63 100 95 85 72 101 100 90 98 66 66 80 100 102 101 82 79 100

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.

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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GLENLYON DAM TOURIST PARK via STANTHORPE 4380 Contact Debbie or Brian Dare for more information or for bookings Ph: 02 6737 5266 E: glenlyondamtouristp@bigpond.com Visit our new website at glenlyondamtouristpark.com.au www.bnbfishing.com.au

Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 81

A couple of personal bests at Noosa. Andrew landed his first spanish mackerel on a floated pilchard and Carl tempted his first Sunshine Reef coral trout. Shane Hackett

Redland Bay Amateur Fishing Club winners from the April/May RBAFC Sports Fishing Competition, which runs monthly. Senior Members’ Choice winner was Adam Neeson with a 40cm whiting, Junior Members’ Choice winner was Shylienn Colvin having boated a 54cm flathead, Robert Cox captured a 56cm mackerel and Grant Birmingham hooked a 52cm pearl perch. RBAFC 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. Page 82 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

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A 42cm bream taken from the kayak when drifting over flats with a 3.5” Z-Man soft plastic in Bloodworm. Agustin Candusso

An 80cm female flathead was hungry for a 3” Holt Productions I’ve been fishing in the 2024 Woman’s Fishing Classic, womensfish Swimprawn at Jumpinpin. ingclassic.com.au Mick Richter Joanne Martin 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, July 2024 – Page 83

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WOODBURN Woodburn Marine 83 River St, Woodburn woodburn.marine@outlook.com 0402 512 Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July603 2024 – Page 85

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Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024 – Page 87

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Page 88 – Bush ’n Beach Fishing, July 2024

BNB Fishing Mag | July 2024

Articles inside

Winter tactics for Broadwater

Six-knot vessel speed limit extended

Winter species fire up

Hot action on a mix of species