New South Wales Fishing Monthly - September 2014 by Fishing Monthly

A TO Z OF SNAPPER FISHING INSIDE

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BETS Grand Final Report • GTS Macleay River • Lake Hume Classic • Hobie Grand Final Venue Announced • ABT Clarence BREAM Results • Gold Coast Hobie Results •

A to Z of Snapper • Oberon Dam • Nomad More Affordable • Boating Safety Accessories •

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Benny Mosman landed this 18.6kg mulloway while fishing at the Hawkesbury River, NSW. Benny used a Black Magic KS 4/0 hook.

Black Magic 40lb Tough Trace was used to catch this 92cm murray cod. Jordan Sanders was fishing at Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.

Paul Carson used a Black Magic Snapper Snatcher 5/0 ‘original’ to take this 5.1kg snapper. Paul was fishing off Barwon Heads, VIC.

Neville Dean caught this 80cm flathead using Black Magic 8lb Fluorocarbon tippet. Neville was fishing in Botany Bay, NSW.

A Black Magic KS 6/0 hook was used by Craig Wathne to catch these dhufish. Craig was fishing off the rocks in Perth.

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September 2014, Vol. 20 No. 1

Contents 11

From the Editor’s Desk... Putting this magazine together, we’re straight out of the 3rd Australian Lure and Fly Expo at the Ipswich Showgrounds. Although this event is run in Queensland, it’s really a collection of Australia-wide talent when it comes to crafting decorative or fishcatching baits from wood, metal, plastic and feathers. Lure fishing is right up my alley and to be frank, collecting isn’t something I’ve ever gotten into, but after spending a weekend in a big tin shed with these crazy Aussies, I have a much broader appreciation of the passion that goes into their hobby (or business). Nothing reflects this more that the Lure Awards – brainchild of show organiser Garry Fitzgerald – where peers vote on fellow craftsmen’s product. The level of workmanship presented seems to notch up

every year and you only need to look at the report about the winners (on page 68) to see some of the handiwork. That said, I’d still tie one on the end of my line and cast it into the scariest snag imaginable. But that’s just me. Naturally, NSW/ACT based lure makers took out two of the three awards. There’s nothing wrong with being parochial – especially in the year NSW wins a State of Origin series. SNAPPER TIME Of course, snapper time for most of the coast is upon us and Glen Booth’s A to Z of snapper is a great refresher course for this sought after species. Although the A to Z format at first impressions doesn’t sound like a practical way of dealing with the species, it takes us on some tangents and delivers some nuggets of information that you won’t otherwise get in a fishing article.

O IS FOR OBERON Did I just write that? Alex Hickson continues his freshwater features by spotlighting this popular central tablelands lake from his kayak. Apparently the redfin populations are giving the trout a run for their money. NOMAD MORE ACCESSIBLE ABT’s Chris Byrnes found out on a recent trip aboard the Nomad mother ship on the Coral Sea that there’s now shorter, cheaper options available for that trip-of-a-lifetime. Just make sure you get to the gym for a few sessions before you go. SIDE SCAN EXPLAINED This month we welcome Nabeel Issa to the fray. He’s going to be examining how to get the best out of that expensive sounder you bought for your boat and the first in the series looks at interpreting side scanning images. And there’s plenty of cool ones there for you to look at.

FINALS TIME It’s not only creeping up on Grand Finals time in the various footy codes. Tournament anglers are practicing and gearing up for the various seasonending events – from the Hobie BREAM Grand final in the west to the BASS Grand Final in the east, we’ll be there to cover it and deliver you all the results in future issues. Stay tuned! BOATING SAFETY Finally, although it’s not the most interesting of subjects compared with turfing lures into the jaws of Coral Sea leviathans, the feature inside on boating safety accessories comes into its own whenever the chips are down. Read through the suggestions and products and picture yourself in a life-or-death situation. Which ones would you want to be on-board?

BYRON COAST The Tweed 22 Ballina 23 The Clarence 24 COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour Coffs Game South West Rocks

26 27 28

MACQUARIE COAST Port Macquarie 30 Forster 32 Harrington 33 Port Stephens 34 HUNTER COAST Hunter Coast 36 Swansea 37 Central Coast 39 SYDNEY The Hawkesbury 40 Pittwater 41 Sydney North 42 Sydney Rocks and Beach 44 Sydney Harbour 46 Sydney South 48 Botany Bay 49 ILLAWARRA COAST Illawarra 50 Nowra 52 BATEMANS COAST Batemans Bay 53 Narooma 54 Bermagui 55 EDEN COAST Tathra 56 Eden 56 Merimbula 57 Mallacoota 57

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A-Z of bait fishing for reds COFFS GAME

Glen Booth

It’s snapper time on the north and mid north coast of New South Wales, and

in this article Coff ’s Harbour’s Glen Booth offers a handy A to Z guide to scoring a feed of these handsome and tasty sportfish over the upcoming months.

‘A’ IS FOR ALVEY For spinning off a metre of line to a timidly biting fish, to enabling a bait to drift down unimpeded in a strong current, it’s hard to beat an Alvey sidecast. And then there’s the indescribable joy an angler feels as line starts rapidly flicking off the spool while in sidecast mode, as this means you’ve ticked all the right boxes in regards to location, sinker weight and bait choice. A 600 (6”) size is perfect for reddie fishing, either an A5 (stainless sideplate) or B (graphite), the latter being

a better option if you’re hand-holding the outfit. There’s no drag to speak of on either reel, just fingers and the skin of the palm, so every big red is a fish well earned. Not only are Alveys more effective than spin and overhead reels, they’re simply more fun to use. Team it up with a 2.4m (8ft) ‘wash’ rod with a low reel mount and you’re good to go. The only downside is hooking a stray tuna or kingfish; they stop being enjoyable a long time before they’re at the boat.

‘C’ IS FOR CUTTLEFISH Dead cuttlefish floating on the surface are a free, hardwearing and effective bait for a number of species. Snapper just love them, but before rushing in and scooping

up a cuttlefish, approach carefully and check to make sure there’s not a big red lurking directly underneath. Even if no one’s at home, those mysterious peg-like bite marks in the cuttlie’s body are now explained.

‘F’ IS FOR FLOATERS A lightly-weighted or un-weighted pilchard, tuna strip or squid head being fed down a sparse berley trail while at anchor is the name of

the game here. It’s miles of fun and on the days when the snapper move up off the bottom and into the berley, it’s literally a fish a cast.

‘D’ IS FOR DEPTH SOUNDER Learn to love your sounder. Turn the auto settings off and drive it manually. Play around with the sensitivity (gain) and all of a sudden you’ll

twig as to what snapper look like on the sounder. This can save many hours of fruitless fishing barren reefs hoping to lure the fish in with berley.

‘G’ IS FOR GEL SPUN LINE Gelspun or braided line in their many forms have made such a difference to all aspects of fishing. Thanks to their fine diameter and zero stretch for better bite detection, they’re the ideal main line for floater or bottom bait fishing. The other good aspect of braid is that it lasts seemingly forever. ‘H’ IS FOR HOOKS Snapper will swallow any hook that fits in their mouths, but some designs are better than others. Two or

three hooks ganged together, or suicide or octopus hooks fished singly or snelled in pairs onto a leader have been a standard since snapper fishing was invented. For a more flexible presentation, it’s hard to beat two hooks linked by a swivel though. A number 10 barrel swivel will slip over the barb of a 3/0 Mustad 542 Viking hook (you may need to pinch the swivel eye slightly closed afterwards though), and then open the eye of the 4/0 with side cutters to take the other end of the swivel.

‘I’ IS FOR ICE SLURRY

‘B’ IS FOR BAITRUNNER The Baitrunner function on a spin reel allows a fish to freely swim off with the bait before the angler engages the drag and sets the hook. This makes Baitrunner-style reels ideal for snapper fishing wherever the species is found. The Baitrunner was actually an Australian

SEPTEMBER 2014

development, formulated by Shimano Australia’s John Dunphy way back in 1988. From concept to the finished product hitting the shops took an incredibly short four months. Now everyone makes them, but the Shimano Baitrunner in its many forms is still the best.

‘E’ IS FOR EARLY STARTS If you’re hitting inshore shallows, being on site before dawn can have a huge bearing on success. When you’re fishing in just a few fathoms, stealth is the key, especially on still mornings. There should be no rattling anchor chain, no splashing anchor, and no dropping big sinkers on the floor of the boat. With not much water depth under the keel and often a thick bed of kelp on the bottom, this is sudden death fishing, so tighten those drag knobs up

an extra turn and be ready to go hard. The snapper usually go off the bite and drift into deeper water as the sun rises, maybe lingering a little longer if it’s an overcast day. When spawning is in full swing though, they may throw caution to the wind and bite throughout the day. If getting up in the chilly darkness is not your cup of tea, these same spots often fire just as well at dusk.

Since this is an unabashed meat gathering exercise, you’re best off dispatching any keepers with iki jime (brain spiking), promptly bleeding them and then putting them into an ice slurry consisting of

three parts freshwater ice to one part seawater. Making up saltwater ice blocks is also an option, but make sure the slurry doesn’t get too cold or the fish will actually freeze before reaching the filleting bench.

‘J’ IS FOR JACKETS Fortunately, Chinaman leatherjackets are more of a scourge in deeper water, where they can steal every hook, sinker and swivel thrown at them, not to mention metres and metres of expensive braid. While excellent eating,

the associated terminal tackle losses make them a less than welcome catch. According to south coast reports, dark green braid like Berkley Whiplash tends to fly under their radar a little bit, while they absolutely love munching on multicoloured stuff.

‘K’ IS FOR KNOBBIES Those big, knobby, often grotesquely deformed beasts we all like to catch and have onlookers ooh-ing and ah-ing back at the filleting table are also known in some circles as ‘old man’ snapper (although this can be contradictory as even quite small fish periodically sport substantial protuberances). There’s a lot of folklore about how snapper get their

head bumps (in NSW and Queensland waters at least), but about a dozen years back a mate commented that all the knobby headed ones were males. I’d never joined the dots before, but having kept an eye on the sex of the fish when cleaning them ever since (based on the presence of milt or roe), he’s been 99% right.

‘L’ IS FOR LEAD Water depth and current strength can have a huge bearing on the success of this enterprise, and on some days an adjustment up or down of just one sinker size can make all the difference to results. Is your mate out-fishing you? Notwithstanding the fact that he might be a better fisho than yourself (perish the thought!), it’s worth checking to see that the sinker sizes are exactly the same. You should carry a range of ball sinkers, from half peas up to wrecking balls, as well as a variety of snapper leads. Even on the heavier bottom gear, a lighter sinker can make all the difference when the current is light or non-existent.

‘M’ IS FOR MONOFILAMENT A hard wearing yet limp monofilament nylon main line has long been first choice for traditional floater fishing. Go for a neutral colour like grey, clear, green or pink in 6-10kg breaking strains, depending on the terrain being fished. For my money it’s hard to beat pink Ande. For Alveys, nylon is still king if you want to keep skin on your fingertips. ‘N’ IS FOR NET Invest in the biggest net you can find. When that much sought after 20lb snapper is lying beaten boatside, there’s nothing worse than trying to get it to fit in a net better suited to scooping yakkas out of the bait tank. A big net also helps with boating lengthy species like cobia, kingfish and mulloway.

‘P’ IS FOR PATERNOSTER The traditional ‘up and downer’ approach of two short droppers above a snapper sinker is still a viable snapper catching rig. Pimp it up with gelspun main line, fluorocarbon, glow beads and offset semicircle hooks like the Black Magic KL in 5/0 or 6/0 for largely set-and-forget fishing while you attend to the floater rods.

It’s one of the great mysteries of snappering as to why on some days – particularly early in the season – the bottom rods produce all the fish, when the floaters, which should be a more natural, attractive option, hardly score a bite. Then, as the season wears on, it’s the floaters that do all the damage. Weird.

‘O’ IS FOR OTHER SPECIES The joy of bait fishing for snapper is that other awesome table species such as pearl perch, tuskfish, big Moses perch

and teraglin come into play. Snapper may be excellent tablefish, but pearlies and tuskies are close to culinary ambrosia. ‘Q’ IS FOR QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY The mackerel and marlin are nearly all gone, so in northern NSW the long weekend is traditionally the time that snapper become the prime offshore focus. It’s also when the Dave Irvine Memorial Snapper

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Comp is held out of Coffs Harbour, and the catches are somewhat of a litmus test for the upcoming season. ‘R’ IS FOR REDS Snapper are a species that attract a lot of nicknames – red bream, cockney bream, reds, pinkies, squire, knobbies,

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old man snapper, even the somewhat derogatory ‘pinks’ from over west. I’ve never heard of anyone refer to them as a squirefish, but that’s what IGFA list them as. What the hell, from an estuary bait stealer to a giant reef prize, they’re all snapper.

‘S’ IS FOR SHELLFISH Prawn, crab, bug and crayfish shells make excellent berley, possibly the best. Start stockpiling these over the summer months (get the neighbours to pitch in) and come winter there’ll be bags full of succulent berley ready to go.

‘T’ IS FOR TUNA Salted tuna, whether it be striped, mackerel tuna, frigate mackerel or even bonito, is perfect for use on the bottom outfit, or cut into long strips as a floater bait. Fillet the fish, sprinkle coarse salt on the flesh side, individually wrap the fillets in a sheet of newspaper, and pop them in the freezer. (Curse the day Fairfax went from broadsheet to

tabloid, because the fillets are now so much harder to wrap. Salted tuna fans live in fear when news goes completely on-line, because it’s just about impossible to wrap tuna fillets in an iPad.) Just be mindful of the salty tuna flavoured puddle that will form in the freezer as the moisture leaches out. Bag them to be safe.

‘W’ IS FOR WA PILLIES Quick and convenient, although not as cheap as they once were, it’s hard to remember a time when West Australian pilchards, pillies or mulies weren’t available as snapper bait. It’s fair to say that more snapper around the country have fallen to WA pilchards than any other bait. If possible, try to source local pillies from the bait netters if they ever become available

‘Y’ IS FOR YAKKA

– they’re an excellent, somewhat cheaper alternative. A 4kg box of individually quick frozen (IQF) pillies will cover a number of trips, with less waste than with block pillies. When you’re fishing two floater rods, try a pilchard on one and a tuna strip or squid on the other to see if there’s any preference being shown by the fish.

The foot soldier of the offshore world, the yellowtail or yakka is a great bait live, dead, butterflied or as fillets. To tempt a really big fish and/or if the pickers are bad, try a head

‘X’ IS FOR X MARKS THE SPOT This is pretty obvious really. Snapper can be found lurking in a range of environments, from bommies to kelp beds to broken ground of rock and sand, but the pick

split down the middle. It won’t go off every time, but when it does, the red will be a cracker. The same approach works equally well with slimy mackerel and pike heads.

of them is generally a high peak grading to gravelly structure behind it, not affected by too much current. ‘Z’ IS FOR ZZZZ! The sound that reel will be making if you follow all of the above!

‘U’ IS FOR UNWANTED SPECIES And this is the downside of bait fishing as opposed to using soft plastics and octo jigs – mados, sweep, leatherjackets, wobbegongs, cat sharks, green eels and red rock cod can really ruin the day. It’s also a sign that there’s little or no current, or not many of the target species around, hence the trash fish getting to the bait first. Red rockies can be a serial pest, especially on the bottom rod, but if it’s any consolation at least you know you’re fishing over hard reef. They supposedly taste like lobster,

but few anglers can be bothered filleting the spiky little mongrels

and anyone that’s been stung by one knows they’re best handled at arm’s

length and flicked off over the side with a pair of longnose pliers.

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‘V’ IS FOR VALUE ADDING The downside of catching a big snapper is that the meat recovery in the form of usable fillets is relatively low, somewhere in the order of 33% depending on the size of the fish. However, that doesn’t mean what remains is useless. Boil the head (or heads) for an hour to make stock for snapper chowder (only 8

SEPTEMBER 2014

do this outside though!). You can also scrape the frames to recover a tasty fish ‘mince’ for fish cakes, and then bury whatever’s left in the vegie garden for a free soil tonic. Some Dutch people I remember from my childhood used to eat the roe, which is considered a delicacy in some communities.

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Yakkin’ about Oberon CTL TABLELANDS

Alex Hickson

Positioned southwest of Lithgow near the town of Oberon, Lake Oberon (Fish River Dam) is located in the western catchment of the Central Tablelands. Its primary feeder is the Fish River, itself an excellent trout water to cast a bait, lure or fly in. Lake Oberon (dubbed by anglers as Oberon Dam) has a historical pedigree for its trout fishing. In times gone by Oberon Dam was renowned for its abundance of big trout. Anglers toting fly rods came from far and wide, even from overseas, and Oberon Dam became an acclaimed stillwater in many early Australian outdoor magazines. Along with both rainbow and brown trout, Lake Oberon currently hosts a growing epidemic of redfin. It’s a consequence of being located in the warmer western

events has taken its toll on the fishing in this dam over the last two decades. Limited access points have condensed anglers and this, coupled with the redfin epidemic, has essentially put this dam off the trout angler’s ‘places to visit’ list. After some lobbying by local outdoor enthusiasts, anglers and local businesses, the local council liaised with adjoining property owners and the short of it was that Oberon Dam has been rezoned, making it open to non-powered boating. One of the access points called ‘The Reef’ has been upgraded, with the local council putting in vehicle and trailer boat access to the water’s edge and an adjacent car parking area. It makes it very easy to pull up and launch a kayak without any carrying or trolley trip. Before pushing off the bank just make sure you have your lifejacket with you as this dam is classed as an alpine water and law dictates you wear a PFD at all times.

cold, windy weather and even on a nice summer day it can make sense to get an up-todate weather forecast before heading off. Being able to access the whole dam after staring at distant points and granite outcrops for many years has put a really exciting tilt on this dam, and for the first time visitors have a chance to explore this dam properly without the annoying barriers like barbed wire fences, gates and ‘Private Property’ signs. I wouldn’t consider Oberon a very big dam but it is quite open to the elements and before heading off I generally take into account the prevailing winds. I prefer to head off into the breeze as it’s not uncommon for the breeze to pick up and become quite strong, and it’s much kinder on your body to come home with the wind behind you. There are some bays and steep edges to access if annoying winds kick in, but the main message is to watch the weather.

Redfin sizes vary in Oberon dam with plenty big enough to knock a couple of tasty fillets off. Oberon’s redfin like deep diving lures with wide actions, like this 60mm Viking Talisman. dominating catches. Trout are still caught though, and annual stocking of rainbow trout still continues by NSW DPI/Fisheries. As an added bonus 2013 saw Fisheries release 50 broodstock fish into the dam. Needless to say these big fish sorted out a lot of men from the boys, with some fish still being hooked occasionally. The resident brown trout are members of a healthy stock of self recruiting fish that migrate up the Fish River arm of the dam each winter to spawn. These fish are now considered ‘wild fish’ by many anglers because brown trout haven’t been stocked into Oberon Dam for several decades now (apart from one small stocking of 500 fish in 1998). These fish are a highly sought-after and esteemed if caught, and it is hoped that most are released. If you are like me and enjoy a feed of redfin, this is the reason you will gear up and head to Oberon Dam with your kayak. Redfin sizes in Oberon Dam are quite mixed but schools of good size fish can be located with a little perseverance. Many if not most kayak anglers these days have a sounder on board, and these are a primary piece of equipment when hunting redfin on any dam. If you don’t have a sounder, the next best thing is to try some

Top: A sounder will help you find schools of redfin in Oberon Dam. The next predicament is catching them! Bottom: With the haze of summer bushfires all around, the author shows off one of the better reddies caught that morning.

Top: The area known as The Reef offers vehicle access to the water edge, a parking area and a pleasant viewing or picnic spot. There are already plans to increase the facilities in this area. Bottom:This dam is a great place to chase a fish or two in your kayak. drainage, and with periodical drought periods this species has worked its way up stream and ultimately into the dam. A combination of 10

SEPTEMBER 2014

Oberon Dam has an elevation of around 1000m and its southerly location ensures it receives very changeable weather. It’s known for its

THE FISHING The fishing prospects at Oberon dam have become a one horse event these days, with the redfin plague

Oberon Dam has some interesting monolithic granite boulders scattered throughout.

trolling with some diving lures. The densities of redfin in this dam usually ensure fish will turn up at some stage. When a fish is caught, try going back over that area again. If you catch another one it could be worth pulling up and trying some vertical presentations. Locating a school is just the start – choosing a lure should be dependent on wind and the depth the fish are holding. If the fish are in the shallows (i.e. about 4m or less), try casting toward the bank or maybe position yourself against the bank and cast out, the option is yours. Using a searching pattern, a number of different lure styles including blades, diving minnows and plastics can be used in this shallower water.

Schools of larger redfin could be pushing fry in towards the bank or larger solitary redfin will be hunting for whatever they can find, be it a yabby off the bottom or another redfin chased down in mid water. Cooler months can reveal redfin sitting in over 25m of water, seemingly huddled on the bottom. Not an easy target, especially if there is some breeze. Dense, heavy lures such as ice jigs and blades are front line lures in these circumstances and are must-have lures when you come to this dam in your ‘yak. Fished on 2-3kg spin gear, these lures will plummet rapidly. It makes interception quicker, and you’ll still maintain a good feel through the line and rod of what going on down there.

LAKE OBERON Location: Adjacent to the town of Oberon approx. 2.5 hours west of Sydney Open to passive vessels only (paddle, pedal, electric motors and sail) Species: Redfin, rainbow trout, brown trout. Classified as a general trout dam by DPI/Fisheries NSW. Classified as an alpine waterway by NSW Roads and Marine. Lifejackets must be worn for any on-water activities. Capacity: 45,000ML Surface area when full: 410 hectares Elevation: 1000m Accommodation and further details: 0263 298 210

Other lures to bring include a range of trolling lures that will cover different depths. Trolling will give you a good opportunity to further explore this dam rather than get caught up with chasing schooling fish. Many of our Australian-designed native styled lures suit this type of fishing; their increased depth capabilities and wide actions definitely seem to appeal to the local redfin. It’s worth mentioning that shore-based locals spend a lot of time casting medium-sized soft plastics from the bank with good success. The larger size obviously helps casting distance and it seems to single out a better class of redfin as well. Soft plastics used from a kayak with finessing techniques have untold prospects in this dam for shallow and deep water presentations. Currently there is no camping at the dam itself but the town of Oberon is close by and has hotel, motel and van park accommodation. For the first-time visitor Oberon Dam can be easily explored over a weekend visit and certainly you could troll around it in a good day on the water if the redfin don’t slow you up. It’s definitely a piece of quiet water that should be put on the kayak angler’s hit list.

Top: Oberon’s redfin vary in size but you can usually get enough for a feed. Bottom:Being of moderate size, Oberon Dam is an ideal kayak fishing destination.

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SEPTEMBER 2014

ABT’s Grand Final winner takes on Nomad’s GT FMG

Chris Byrnes

Anglers dream of fishing pristine locations teeming with the opportunity to land the catch of a lifetime. The reality is this has never been easier for all anglers to experience world class fishing. ABT joined 2013 BASS PRO Grand Final winner Dean Silvester as he travelled with Nomad Sportfishing Adventures to experience Australian fishing at its best. Hamilton Island provided the idyllic backdrop to the start of the Nomad trip. ABT arrived at Hamilton Island the day prior to departure and stayed overnight at the Reef View Hotel. The following morning we were picked up from the hotel and shuttled to our floatplane. After a quick safety briefing we were soon airborne and on our way to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for our 6 day adventure (Nomad do have shorter 3-4 day adventures starting in 2015 for those with less time). A swift 50 minute flight saw us touching down a few hundred metres from our home for the next week, Nomad’s mothership Odyssey. This 80’ aluminium catamaran was purpose built for fishing charters and provided all the creature comforts required. The mothership is served by four tenders that ferry guests to the fishing locations each day. Once aboard we were introduced to Odyssey’s

Captain and crew and briefed on safety and the ship’s facilities. When this was completed we acquainted ourselves with our fellow passengers and begun to prepare our tackle for the following day’s session. Nomad provides rods

SEPTEMBER 2014

board shop and rear bar area. Access to the wheelhouse and motor room is strictly limited to crew. The area is well laid out, spacious and provides the opportunity to either mix with fellow guests or just enjoy some private time. Optional facilities (additional costs

Left: The Odyssey is a sensational home base anywhere on the reef. The crew are first class and you are looked after like you’re part of the family. Right: This is a pretty standard GT that will smash your lures. While they get much, much bigger, fish like this keep you somewhat worn out while you wait for the really big ones to kill you for the day. and reels for all guests. These are top of the line Shimano outfits that will stand up to the rigors of the fishing. In the event of loss or breakage, the angler is responsible for replacement. This unfortunately does happen time to time (including on this trip) but it is a risk all guests accept. You can take your own rods and reels, but these do form part of your

From 7.30am until 5pm you are in with a chance to hook your biggest GT ever. The guides work hard to put you in the right place, you’ve just got to take the chance when it comes – and it will come! 12

luggage allowance. Guests are required to bring suitable lures for use, or purchase lures from the onboard tackle shop. For the uninitiated this may sound daunting (and expensive), but with the guidance of Nomad the process was

fairly straightforward. For example most of the lures I researched and brought were suitable for use, but a number required larger or stronger terminal tackle (split rings/hooks) that I didn’t have so I purchased that on board (an on board running tab is used for purchases). The use of barbless single hooks is mandatory for all heavy tackle fishing, which makes releasing fish easier and ensures the welfare of the fish and the angler. After getting our tackle ready we checked the board that indicated the guide and passenger allocation for the next day. Nomad works with all passengers to identify their preferred type of angling and then allocates boats to suit. Passengers are rotated throughout the range of vessels ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience the different guides and tenders used. Our guide for the following day kindly rigged our chosen rods with the leader and lures required. The guide clearly explained the knots used, tackle and what we could expect in terms of target species. It was clear all the guides held a wealth of knowledge and were happy to share their insights and experiences. Odyssey is divided into two levels; upper deck and lower deck. The upper deck provides a table area to sit around, area to store any tackle you may have brought and a clothesline to dry any washing or wet gear. The lower deck houses the ship’s accommodation, bathrooms, galley and dining area, on

INFORMATION NEED TO BRING Sunscreen Appropriate sunsafe clothing including buff/ headscarf Wet weather gear – the best you can afford! Polarised sunglasses – ideally two pairs in case of loss Hats Toiletries Medical requirements Travel insurance LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS There is a 20kg weight limit on the seaplane to the Coral Sea. This includes all rods, reels, tackle and carry-on that you may bring. Check with domestic carriers regarding weight limits and restrictions on the length of rod tubes allowed to be carried. TACKLE Guests are free to bring their own rods, reels and tackle as long as it comes under the weight restrictions for your particular trip and is of the standard required. COST OF TRIP Varies depending on trip location and duration. New to 2015 Nomad are offering 3 or 4 day packages for February and March 2015, fishing Escape Reef and the Ribbon Reefs, exiting Cairns. These new packages will allow guests to access some of the world’s best GT fishing plus casting, jigging and trolling for an incredible variety of species. These trips are quick, easy and great value for money, with no long overnight ocean passages, and same day access to the reefs exiting Brisbane/Sydney/Melbourne. If you prefer an extended trip, Nomads 6-day Ultimate Adventures offer 6 days of fishing in some of the most remote fishing grounds available. There are 4 main destinations to choose from – Jewell Reef, Bligh Reef, the Claremont Isles and Ashmore Reefs, which are all accessed via Cairns. Extended and Exploratory charters are also offered each year. Remember 30-40% of customers are repeat customers so make sure you book quickly to ensure your place on these once in a lifetime fishing adventures. The 3-4 day packages start from $3,100 PP excluding transfers. Check out www. nomadsportfishing.com.au/wordpress/ for further information.

involved) included small clothes washing service, satellite phone and email. I would be lying if I didn’t point out that most people took the opportunity not to be contactable during their time on Odyssey. All guests stay in either quad share bunkrooms or in twin share cabins (for an additional fee). There was plenty of storage space within the cabin for all occupants and all linen and towels were provided. The beds were spacious, comfortable and provided a well earned rest at the end of each day. Given that you may not have met your fellow guests I suggest taking all the necessary precautions to ensure a good night’s sleep including earplugs, face masks and any necessary sleeping aids. All meals are provided during your journey and they quickly became a highlight of each day. A full hot or cold breakfast greeted us each morning. Lunch packs covered us throughout the day while fishing. Dinner was served at 7pm, which was comprised of a three course meal. At no time did anyone complain of hunger and were presented to a high standard. Two kegs of beer were provided free of charge ensuring no one went thirsty (the bar stocks a full range of beer, wine and spirits for purchase). Personal culinary highlights included the fresh fish guests caught served for dinner (including the freshest tuna sashimi I have ever tried), a first class crème brûlée and fresh squid sashimi prepared and served to guests within minutes of capture.

A day’s fishing would normally extend from 7:30am to 5pm including a half hour break for lunch. In this time we travelled around the various reef edges, bomboras, blue holes and flats that harboured the fish we were chasing. During each session we spent the majority of time casting for giant trevally punctuated with trolling between locations where possible. Schools of yellowfin tuna, shark mackerel and bludger trevally provided welcome moments of frenzied activity where triple hook-ups were not uncommon. During the session the environment provided the perfect backdrop with whales and dolphins popping up regularly and the tides and current showcasing the vast amount of water that moves through the reef area and shapes the reef system. The crew was ably led by the Master of MV Odyssey, Andrew Caines. Caines, who has been in the role for three years, oversees a crew that includes guides, engineer, cook and host, and whose responsibilities include the safety of personal, seafaring, voyage planning and crew and guest management. Caines undoubtedly takes his role very seriously, but always remained friendly and approachable throughout the entire journey. When questioned it was the guest’s

experiences that provided the greatest fulfilment within his role. The guides work together throughout each day sharing information about where they are fishing and what conditions

they are encountering. When questioned on what identifying features they are looking for on the water to the answers were not unfamiliar; bait activity, birds, current, wind and areas of pressure to name a few.

Chris Byrnes with a typical GT that nailed a stick bait. Good fun for anyone.

The guides provide guests with advice and direction on the lures to use, how to effectively work the lure and where to cast the lure to maximise opportunity. There is the expectation that anglers are familiar/experienced with using a rod and reel and are able to cast a lure. Regardless of your skill level it will take time getting used to casting large lures on heavier gear and it was a few days before I was able to regularly get the desired casting distance. If guests were using lures that required a specific technique the guide would advise accordingly. For example while using a large popper I was informed that the retrieve needed to be more aggressive in order to work effectively. The guide illustrated how the popper should be worked, when to pause the lure and the correct action of lure and level of water displacement I should be looking for. There were no shortcuts to replicating this, but by alternating sides and using a gimble retrieve the exertion was manageable. Anyone who thinks that this type of fishing is easy on the body will quickly realise that endurance plays a pivotal role in the process. Crossfit training anyone? Dean Silvester took to the experience like a fish to water. Despite not having

fished for GT before, Dean’s focus and technique allowed him to adapt to the style of fishing and get results. The numerous giant trevally that he caught (and many more that managed to escape) were the result of persistence, skill and determination. Silvester was the first person to offer advice, share stories or assist fellow guests when asked and was always the first person ready to board the tender after breakfast each morning. Given that most guests had limited exposure to tournament fishing it was an ideal situation to have a great representative able to talk about the sport, share his experiences and showcase his obvious passion. Each day on board Nomad was a unique experience. Between fishing there were many experiences to be had including swimming in blue holes (a cave or underwater sinkhole) located on the reef, seeing first hand hundreds of types of fish species inhabiting the coral reef and witnessing the kaleidoscope of vivid colours of the world’s largest coral reef. It really was up to the individual to determine how their day unfolded and ultimately gave each guest a blank canvas at the start of each day. To remember and share the experience a complimentary DVD of guest’s photographs

was compiled at the end of the trip and provided as a memento of the journey. This DVD showcased the locations travelled to and large number and variety of fish caught throughout the trip, illustrating the adventure through the eyes of each guest. I will leave the last quote to the Master of Odyssey Andrew Caines, “If you are a person seeking a unique adventure then Nomad Sportfishing Adventures will provide you with the opportunity of a lifetime. If you are an angler that is serious about your fishing then my advice would be to do training prior to arrival. Finally, if after the day’s adventures you can lie down and regardless of what transpired you are still smiling then we have done our job”. Two weeks on since our return and the smile is still there when I go to sleep. I am already looking forward to my next adventure...

Check out the short video of the trip by clicking on this QR Code or by logging onto youtu.be/JB8BHg8ertE.

SEPTEMBER 2014

A chat with SFP’s Pete Johnson NSWFM ran into Pete Johnson at the Sydney Trailer Boat Show at Olympic Park in March, where we found out he was a member of the SFP. We were interested to know more about him, the SFP and their policies, so we teed up an interview. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Ermington, Sydney near the

Parramatta River. Tell us a little about yourself. Up until now, what have you done for work? Family? Hobbies? Currently, I am a Heavy Vehicle Fleet and Compliance Manager. I have been in the road transport industry for nearly 20 years. I did an apprenticeship in fitting/ machining/welding and did

that for a few years before buying a Commercial Fishing License in NSW which I fished in the trap and line sector for several years. I love fishing, all forms of it, but really love chasing luderick off the ocean rocks. I’m also a keen hunter and through my club, Nepean Hunters, I really enjoy teaching

Pete Johnson has been fishing all his life, and says he wants young people to have access to the same fishing opportunities and experiences that he’s had.

‘‘I’ll fight for OUR fishing rights.’’

young people and new shooters about firearm safety and ethical hunting. NSWFM first met you doing some unique bait rigging demonstrations at the Sydney Trailerboat Show, so you’re a fisherman from way back. What role has fishing played in your life? Fishing has definitely been a driving influence in my life. It has taken me overseas to fish competitively as well as chasing different species. It defines me as an outdoor person. Fishing has been a very enjoyable recreation that has taken me to so many locations and created so many memories for me. I’m very thankful for all of those memories and the people I’ve met along the way. When did you join the SFP and what made you interested in joining the party? I joined the Shooters and Fishers Party after Robert Brown rescued a petition of 17,000 signatures we presented to the then Opposition, calling for a moratorium on new Marine Parks, and expansion of existing ones. My fishing club, Warringah Anglers, instigated the petition and presented it to the Shadow Fisheries Minister at the time, who promised the world but did nothing with it. Robert Brown and the SFP tabled the Moratorium to Parliament and won a huge battle for anglers of NSW. It was at that point I realised that the Shooters and Fishers Party were the only party interested in protecting the rights of fishers. Next year you’ll be standing as a candidate for the NSW election for the SFP. Let us know what you and the SFP stand for and what key rights you will be fighting for.

Pete Johnson from the SFP says he wants to bring common sense and industry experience to fishing legislation. I want young people to have access to the same opportunities and experiences that I’ve had through fishing, and that’s why I’m passionate about protecting our rights and give anglers a greater say in their sport. I also want to bring some common sense and industry experience to fishing legislation, something I think is sorely lacking in both the major parties. We have just recently seen in NSW a review paper stating that less than 1% of all fishing trips result in a bag limit being taken, however the Government now wants to reduce the limits even further. That’s ridiculous. Fishers need a Statutory Authority that manages the day-to-day regulations and compliance of recreational fishing, its future determined by its own scientific reviews and not bureaucracy. We also want to stop plans by NSW Government to lift the embargo on foreign investment in commercial fishing activities who will have less regulation than Australian commercial fishermen, and will lead to higher prices for families at the fish market. The Shooters and Fishers Party also want to increase access for recreational fishers, at a

time when the Government is rumoured to once again be considering additional marine parks. We believe that all parks should be scientifically reviewed to ensure they are providing a benefit to both fishers and fish stocks. Currently the Marine Parks are used only as a tool to keep fishers out. Where can our readers find out more about the Shooters and Fishers Party, and what can they do to help? We’re going to be out and about a lot over the next seven months and we’ll be asking fishers throughout NSW to find out more about our plans, and hopefully give us your support on election day. You can head over to our campaign website at www.sfp2015.org.au and register to join the party, or put your name down as a volunteer on Election Day. As a minor party we don’t have the resources of the big political machines, so grassroots support is absolutely crucial. We can’t do it without your support. I want to give ALL fishers a real voice in what happens to their sport in the future. If you think there’s an issue we should know about, or you just want to ask a question, please contact me at pjohnson@ sfp.org.au. – FM

Peter Johnson, SFP Candidate

WHAT WE’VE ACHIEVED SO FAR

✔ Moratorium on Marine Parks ✔ Saved Oilies Wharf ✔ Hands off Meroo Lake RFH ✔ Overturned ban on Beach and Rock Fishing

Authorised by Robert Borsak, Unit 26, 9 Salisbury Road, Castle Hill NSW 2154.

SEPTEMBER 2014

PJ wants to give ALL fishers a real voice in what happens to their sport in the future.

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If I look happy, that’s an understatement!! My first ever Barra, 110cm. We had a fantastic time. dP Thanks to Phil’s Barra Tours and Peter our guide. Craig Ellem - Thora NSW- April 2014

Bucket List of Barramundi Adventures My third trip with your company Phil and I finally got the big one (97cm) and the fight was was worth every minute of the wait. Brian Campbell Budgewoi NSW - March 2014

Another great adventure with you Phil!! and my second metre plus Barra (102cm), Please book me again for 2015, same time...Ken Gill - North Haven NSW- March 2014

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Fishing Fill-its

Insinc Marine is Quintrex Dealer of the Year Located in Gosford on the NSW central coast, Insinc Marine continues to impress as a premium Quintrex dealer taking out the state’s Dealer of the Year Award for 2013-2014. Having just celebrated their two year anniversary as a Quintrex Dealer, Insinc Marine are already a boating favourite among the

Dealer Principal Troy Durham together with his wife Lee have worked hard to ensure their dealership offers the very best in product, service and boating advice even offering boat licensing courses twice a month. With over 10 years’ experience in the marine industry Troy believes it’s the staff and structures that have helped ensure the

locals and quickly earning a reputation for their excellent customer care, professional dealership and enthusiasm for the industry.

success of the business since opening shop a couple of years ago. ‘I think it makes a difference if your staff can

offer the experience and expertise when it comes to boating and genuinely have an interest in the product and then combine that with the right resources,’ Troy said. Complete with a certified service centre Insinc Marine specialises in Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser Sterndrives, used boat sales and offer a wide variety of boating parts and accessories now also including Lowrance products. Quintrex National Account Manager Cameron Wood said he was continually impressed with the team at Insinc Marine with their professional presentation of the dealership and enthusiasm for the brand. ‘They really have a team environment in the dealership where everyone plays their part and works togetherI think that is part of their key to success and shows exceptional management,’ Cameron said. ‘The Quintrex Team would like to congratulate Insinc Marine on an outstanding year and look forward to many more years working together,’ Cameron added. Insinc Marine will hold their annual In House Show

on October 11th & 12th and if you can’t wait until then to check out what they have on offer they will have boats on

display at Erina Fair from the 18th to the 24th of August. To get in contact with the team from Insinc Marine head

to www.insincmarine.com.au or for more information on the Quintrex range head to www. quintrex.com.au. – Telwater

FISHING FILL-ITS

Fuji pursues K Guide copies Japanese fishing guide manufacturer Fuji spends millions of dollars researching and creating functional and durable guides for millions of fishing rods worldwide. One of their latest iterations of guide is called the K Guide, and it has some pretty special properties. K Guides are designed to stop braided lines knotting on the guide frame during the cast. Simple. Casts that jerk to a halt with a knot for you to untangle around the guide frame become a thing of the past with these guides, and that’s pretty cool for anglers who like fishing braid. Fuji has a Design Patent on this concept – both in Japan and in Australia. Recently, Australian Fuji distributor Frogleys Offshore announced that Fuji would be taking firm

action against companies which (knowingly or unknowingly) build rods with copies of these guides. Frogleys Offshore Director Paul Starkey chatted to Fishing Monthly recently about the action. “The plain story is that the copies of the K Guides are infringing the patent, and we will be taking action to eradicate these from the market,” said Paul. “We know consumers don’t really care about the technicalities and actions between companies, they just want a well built guide that will do the job for them – and that’s where copies will let you down. If they’re not an original Fuji, they won’t be built as well as the real thing, and if the copycats have varied the design enough to avoid the patent infringement, the guide won’t do the job it’s supposed to do.”

The bottom line for consumers is to ask your tackle store if the rod you’re buying has genuine Fuji K Guides on it. You can tell by the word FUJI stamped into the frame. It’s the only way to be sure that you’re getting the real thing. – FM

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Hail the humble flatty NSW STH COAST

Steve Starling www.starlofishing.me

Flathead are one of Australia’s most iconic and readily available fish. They’re also a great target on which to hone your fishing skills, or try out a new technique… And best of all, they’re on the chew right now! You’ve got to love the humble, abundant and almost always willing flathead clan. There are more than 30 different species of these ugly but tasty bottom dwellers living in our salt and brackish waters, and at least a couple of varieties are available almost anywhere you might care to cast a line, right around Australia’s vast seaboard. Up north and over in the West you’ll mostly catch bar-tails. Along the east coast we have sandies and tigers offshore, along with the jumbo member of the clan — the dusky — lurking in our estuaries. Down south there are blue spots and rock flathead, plus even more sandies and tigers. In short, wherever you go,

Flathead are masters of camouflage and ambush. That big mouth is lined with small, sharp teeth and rarely misses its mark.

The dusky flathead is the giant of the clan, very occasionally topping a metre in length and giving the 10 kg mark a nudge. However, most of those caught by anglers will measure between 35-80cm.

There are few better targets than flathead with which to open your saltwater flyfishing account. They love a streamer-style fly!

Flathead settle and bury into the sand between ambush assaults, often leaving clearly discernible ‘lies’ that can be easily spotted at low tide. there’s no shortage of flatties! Flathead are also not a particularly difficult fish to catch. They’re opportunistic predators and occasional scavengers, spending much

of their time lying motionless and well camouflaged on the sea floor or riverbed. However, if something vaguely edible happens to swim, crawl or drift by, these

reptilian fish are incredibly quick over a distance of a metre or two. They also have an over-sized mouth lined with small, sharp teeth: a mouth primarily designed for

one-way traffic. Favourite tucker for flathead includes all sorts of little (and not so little!) fish, as well as prawns, crabs, octopus, squid, yabbies or nippers and various marine worms. But they’ll eat bits of dead animals, too. The biggest trick to catching flathead is to remember that they’re almost always more likely to grab something that’s moving. These fish really do seem to be attracted and excited by motion and action. One of the best ways to achieve constant bait

movement is to drift with the wind or tide in a boat, kayak or canoe while your weighted and baited lines drag slowly along the bottom behind you. If you’re land-based, the same result can be achieved by slowly retrieving line, or even shuffling backwards up the beach or bank after making a cast. The flathead’s fondness for hitting a moving target also makes it a sucker for many lure and flyfishing strategies. It’s no accident that a flathead is often the first saltwater species racked up by any newcomer to lure

and flyfishing. The only real trick to success lies in ensuring that your artificial bait stays within a metre of the bottom at all times, whether trolling or retrieving. Closer to the bottom is even better, and making occasional contact with the sand or mud is best of all. Perhaps the deadliest method yet devised for catching flathead on rod and reel is to throw out a 7-12cm long soft plastic (a shad, T-tail or curly-tailed grub will do the job) rigged on a 7-14g (1/4-1/2oz) jighead, carrying a 1/0-4/0 hook. Let this lure sink all the way to the bottom, then give it a reasonably sharp flick or two, retrieve the slack line generated and repeat… all the way back to the rod tip. Keep doing this — making sure the lure regularly falls back to the seabed — and you WILL catch flathead, I assure you… It’s honestly as simple as that! The colour of the lure isn’t usually all that important, either. Try natural tones in clearer water or bright hues such as hot pink and chartreuse (lime green) in dirtier or darker conditions. Or black. Or white. They all work! Spring is prime flathead time in most parts of the country, so get out there in the next few weeks and give it a crack!

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to the mix, offering an affordable outboard powered family/fishing all-rounder. Dealer Principle Andrew Hazlett said of the partnership, “We are very excited to Team up with Stejcraft to offer an extensive range of Australian built, outboard powered cuddy cabins, which are sure to complement our already extensive range of family fun and fishing boats.” Stejcraft has over 30 years’ experience as a boat designing and boat building company. Established in 1972 Stejcraft is a familyowned business that has manufactured fiberglass boats for the Australian public for the entire history of the company. Most Stejcraft employees are actively involved in recreational boating and watersports competitions in both competitive fishing and skiing competitions. Their experience and expertise is rolled back into improvements and new boat designs for the benefits of all Stejcraft boat owners and customers. Avante Marine Silverwater’s team are also very involved in the water, from keen fishermen to guys

generally excited about being on the water in any capacity, so the Stejcraft brand fits perfectly. Come into the showroom at 212 Silverwater Rd and see the friendly staff

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Better than last month THE TWEED

David Solano

Usually I start the column off with how good the state of the river is, and here I go again! It’s fishing even better than last month, the water quality is fantastic and so is the quality of the bait. I love checking out the baitfish to see what size and colour they are so I can attempt to match them with a soft plastic or hard

bodied lure. The boys who net the mullet off Kirra Beach have been kept busy as there’s a lot around. Up at Point Danger whales have been spotted chasing them closer to shore. While I was spinning for tailor off the north wall two whales came in very close (just behind the surf break) and started getting friendly with each other. I had no idea what they were doing but the guy fishing next to me informed me they were

mating. No wonder there were no fish nearby. So with all this baitfish around, it’s an exciting fishing destination. Small chopper tailor are being caught in the river with the Blue Hole a pretty popular spot. You can find some bigger fish using metal lures or pillies on a gang hook. Try the causeway at Fingal, the beach off Fingal, both walls of the river mouth and pay particular attention to the Beach where the sand

Dave with a healthy mulloway.

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pumping jetty is. All these spots are fishing well for the famous Tweed greenback. Luderick are around in numbers under Boyds Bay Bridge. The wall to the south side of the bridge is also generally packed at this time of year, particularly on the weekends. From the water these guys look like they are having a lot of fun, a real social occasion.

Yellowtail kings in the river? Yes there are a few that have been caught on heavy gear from boats in the seaway. Big shallow diving hardbodies are doing the damage I’m told. Finally the bream are spawning, squirting milt everywhere. It’s all good fun until you cop a spray between the eyes, which happened to me recently. That fish was lucky not to be eaten. The

It’s a beautiful part of the world, and the track will take you out to the main river where you can walk for miles casting into the shallows chasing flathead and whiting. It is indigenous country and this special spot takes you back to nature, I guarantee you’ll like it. There’s a seat halfway along the track next to the river, and I recommend you take

Tel: 0407 930 762 petra.tscherner@ eskimodistribution.com.au

Wayne van den Broek and Richard Creighton were all smiles with this catch. Some big winter whiting are showing up in the shallows. I was struggling getting them on poppers but my mates were smashing them with live worms, so I grabbed a packet of Ecogear soft plastic worms and hey – they worked! The boys saw my success and started using them too. Weird how the fake bait out-fished the real thing. School jewies are around in numbers but landing a legal 70cm+ mulloway is beyond me. My biggest so far this season was around 67cm and I haven’t heard of any legals caught in the river (you could try around the bridges just before daybreak and on dusk). 22

SEPTEMBER 2014

bream are everywhere with the biggest being caught off the walls out front. If you don’t have a boat or yak here’s a couple of land based hot spots. The boat harbour just past the trawlers is a great spot for luring and sharpening your casting skills, and there are a lot of big fish in there. Once I was slow rolling a deep diver along the side of a boat when a big barracuda came roaring out of the shadows and grabbed my lure. I got such a shock I almost threw my rod in the water. Yep, I got busted off. The other spot is a walking track behind South Tweed Shopping Centre.

time to sit silently there for five minutes. See how many different bird sounds you can make out. Lastly I was in my yak fishing the trawlers when all the charter boats came in. I had an idea for a contra deal. I took time out to individually ask each skipper if they would be interested in taking turns to take me out with them so I could report on what’s happening outside. To my surprise they all said yes, how cool is that! Paul Burt pulled me aside and said he’d take me right out wide to catch some big, big fish. Now you’re talking, bring it on Burty.

Tough fishing in clear water in the Richmond BALLINA

Tristan Sloan tris.sloan@gmail.com

It’s been a tough month on the Richmond River, in fact the last few months have been tough for the regular punters just out looking for a feed. This is mainly due to the lack of rain which has resulted in some incredibly water clarity. In fact, last weekend I could see the bottom of the river in 6m of water while anchored up at the Porpoise Wall on the run-in tide. The only species that has been reliable and biting readily in numbers has been the humble luderick and even then I’ve had to drop down to 2lb trace to get some consistent action, and use a variety of green and black weeds. For those of you who haven’t yet mastered the art of catching luderick, the most successful technique to get onto a few fish in the river has been to use a variety of fresh and live baits. The run-out tide, which provides a bit of colour to the water, has been the best time. Lightly weighed live yabbies, prawns and mullet gut have fooled some wary bream and the occasional flathead. The lure fishermen have been doing it especially tough. Forget about trying to fool a super wary bream in these clear waters – I’ve even struggled to get a decent feed of flathead lately. The only reasonable success I’ve had is targeting pockets of sand amongst

Fresh squid makes a great mulloway bait off the beach.

I can’t comment much on the offshore fishing because every weekend it seems the swell manages to get up and the fishing gods prevent me from doing some much-needed research for readers. The anglers who have managed to sneak out mid-week have reported that plenty of snapper are located on the close reefs as well as the 32 and 48 fathom lines, with quite a few pearl perch, kingfish and amberjack also coming over the side. Unfortunately the plague of leatherjackets has also arrived so remember to take plenty of wire and hooks when you head out. The humble leatherjacket can make a great feed but those scissor-like teeth can be mighty expensive on terminal tackle. FUNDING OPEN FOR NSW HABITAT ACTION I noticed in a recent email from NSW Fisheries that funding is now available for NSW Habitat Action Grants which are provided through the NSW Recreational Fishing Licence Trust. Individuals, angling clubs, community groups and local organisations interested in

rehabilitating fish habitats in freshwater and saltwater areas throughout NSW can apply for grants. These include such projects as re-snagging your favourite bass or cod stream, bank stabilisation works, removal of exotic vegetation and rehabilitation of riparian

lands. This is a great opportunity for anglers to take an active approach in the future of their local waterways. More information can be found on the NSW Fisheries website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ hag. Applications close on September 19, 2014.

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Estuary perch make a great catch and release target at this time of year. are a lot easier, and rigged weedless they are a deadly and snag-proof option for tough days. The rock and beach fishing has been the saviour for many locals lately with good bream, drummer

been producing fish. Lately I’ve also done quite a bit of tailor spinning around the beach gutters and rocky headlands in the mornings, and have been surprised with the quality of fish on offer. Solid winter

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and grouper falling to well presented (lightly weighted) baits fished close to the rocks. The swell has been forgiving enough lately to access some of the harder-to-reach spots, and structure such as bommies and rocky outcrops with sufficient white water have

greenbacks are common, and I watched a young lad lose a fish of about 6kg spinning off Flatrock. He was devastated. I tried to console him by reminding him that half the attraction of fishing is ‘the one that got away’ but I don’t think that helped much!

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The weather has been a lot fairer of late. The run of mulloway on the walls and headlands is still continuing but the quantity of large fish has been dropping a bit. Still, there are a few bigger fish around and they’re still liking the large locallymade hardbody lures from Get Bent Lures and Croaker Lures. Just like last month, the best way to get connected to one of these lure-crunching mulloway is to slow roll your offering through the washes of the headlands. The insides of the walls are also good spots to try. Despite the weather being a bit more mild this month, it hasn’t hurt the tailor and there are still plenty of them

Kaleum Gannon with a Croaker Lures munching mulloway spun up from the boat. hopefully the tailor will stick around as well. On the bream front the same tactics as suggested last month should still be doing a bit of damage

your favourite bream lures (I like using blades and soft plastics) worked deep along the walls and deep reefs in the river at this time of year.

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Left: Kurt Murphy with a healthy Clarence River flatty. Right: This shows the quality of choppers around at the moment. These were spun up by Kurt Murphy off the beach. around of the headlands and beaches. Most of the fish caught lately have been averaging around the 1-2kg mark. There’s plenty of bait around so

around the lower walls of a night. Gut baits like chook and mullet gut are working the best. It can also be productive fishing these same areas with

There are still plenty of good sized table quality squire around to be had. The pick of the baits is still little bottle squid, but having a variety of bait on

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as talked about last month you have to be very careful there is a very fine line between not enough and too much. You want to use your berley to get them interested not to feed them. When fishing the shallows at this time of year my favourite method is to use a lightly weighted bait drifted down a berley trail from the back of the boat. But if you are after a trophy-sized knobby, early starts are key. When I say ‘early starts’, I mean getting to your favourite marks in the dark, setting up your berley trail and fishing into the light using bigger baits. As well as using bigger baits you would do well to upsize everything else like hook size, main line and leader. Losing a big fish can haunt your dreams for many a night after!

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Fishing set to rally COFFS HARBOUR

Stephen Worley worleybirdfilms@hotmail.com

I believe Coffs is a world class destination, with world class fishing, world class beaches and a world class hinterland. This month will see the attractions of the Coffs Coast displayed for all to see on a world stage when we host Round 10 of the FIA World Rally Championship for 2014. One of the great things I love about the WRC round in Coffs is that it

draws the world’s attention to the hinterland of our Coffs Coast. The hinterland behind Coffs is probably my favourite part of this area, with amazing rivers, canyons, rainforest and of course fishing. It just so happens that the rally will be racing in, around and through some of the best bass fishing locations in the country. If you’re visiting the area, or you’re a local who doesn’t normally venture out of town, use the rally as the impetus to explore the hinterland and find new waters to fish. I won’t give

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away any secret spots but if you’re out watching a stage, any freshwater rivers, creeks or streams will host bass. The further from civilisation the spot is, the better the fishing should be – so pick one you think looks good and explore away. Just remember to ask permission when accessing private property, and remember that land owners are away from town for a reason. This month the bass will be heading back up the river from their winter spawning in the brackish water. There will be a number of good fish high up in the topwaters but the best fishing will be for whichever angler can find the bulk of the population. Here they will be competing for food and will be far more keen to participate in your angling activities. This location

Mitch Green with a bass that will soon have a front row seat at the 2014 Rally Australia WRC round. winter, rather than the lack of snapper. Anglers have been slow to target snapper but throughout the last few

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above ‘rat’ size, have been the dominant capture for many anglers. BEACHES On the beaches there have been good numbers of smaller mulloway as well as some large specimens. The big fish have been caught by those anglers who put in the yards to get away from often fished stretches, and put in the time to capture the once-in-a-lifetime kind of fish. Fishing with whole

RIVERS In the rivers the water has mostly been very clear which has made fishing low down in the estuaries quite tough. Finesse fishing is best in this situation. Light lines and leader, little weight and inconspicuous lures or baits are the go too when the water is clear. Small, light lures fished slow with plenty of long pauses have worked well for anglers luring for bream

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Dom Thornely with a cracking knobby caught during the Dave Irvine Snapper Memorial Challenge. It demonstrates the calibre of red that’s been around this winter. will likely be below the first few rapids until we get some decent rain for the bass to surge upwards. OFFSHORE Head east from Coffs Harbour and you’ll be in some of the best offshore waters on the east coast. Known for its diversity of temperate and tropical fish, the Coffs Coast is where the warm waters of the East Australian Current meet and mix with the colder southern waters. Snapper, pearl perch, kingfish, samsonfish, tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, cobia, mackerel and mulloway are all caught in the area but at this time of the year it’s the snapper fishing that is the feature offshore. It was a slow start to the snapper this year, but this was most likely because of the abundant presence of mackerel right into

months the snapper have been there for the catching on the inshore reefs, and that will likely continue this month. Anywhere from the headlands, onshore reefs and out to the islands and deeper reefs will be holding plenty of snapper keen to get a feed (and possibly be a feed). Soft plastics, slow jigs and micro jigs are all producing good results this year and are especially effective when you’re trying to cover ground searching for the larger fish. If stationary fishing is more your thing, a good consistent berley and floating unweighted baits down with it is probably the way to go. Elsewhere offshore the kingfish have been on the bite but few anglers have found the bigger fish. Rat kings, or a fish just

Nathan Medland with two mulloway of typical size for most captures this month. squid is your best chance at a good mulloway but a slab bait will work well, although it often results in more shark bycatch. Good size bream, tailor and salmon are also very likely off the beaches at present. Many of the beaches have very welldefined gutters from repeated large swell events so it can be quite easy picking your locations.

and flathead. If you’re using bait, unweighted or lightly weighted live yabbies are pretty hard to beat although the big fish will likely come between a lot of undersized fish. Flathead have been willing to participate, and with swarms of small whitebait in the estuaries it’s pretty easy to choose what lures to use. Skinny To page 27

Some Coffs snapper are meant to be caught COFFS GAME

Glen Booth

In mid-July and there were still Spanish mackerel to be caught. How totally weird was that? They weren’t numerous, but that might be because nobody was really bothering to chase them. Most anglers either

West Wyalong. He scored a nice striped marlin of about 90kg for his troubles after the fish did the usual stripy thing, window-shopping the entire spread before settling on a lure it liked. A couple of weeks later, with the current easing out wide, a planned deep dropping trip got canned as they passed through 40

A couple of other striped marlin have been seen and at least one caught in the 50 fathom area recently, in less than cobalt blue water. Stripes don’t mind the green stuff so long as there’s bait present. Fishing green water does my head in, so I’m probably better off concentrating on snapper

A good way to start the new season for the Better Than Vegas crew. switched into snapper mode or got the feet up and the boat in bits after a busy gamefishing season. Local charter boat Better Than Vegas put in the days right through early winter though, and some proved to be diamonds. The gamble of running to the Red Rock Canyons, a distance of about 40 miles

fathoms, simply because of the sheer amount of bait marking mid water. This produced six mahi mahi from 75-95cm, a bunch of fat stripies and mac tuna, and three keeper kings. There were also a couple of marlin marked around the bait, but unfortunately they refused to rise to the lure spread.

fishing for the time being, which, as an aside, has been very tough going this year. Granted, the water is still perhaps a tad warm as I write this, but there is another theory: due to almost no rain this year (by Coffs’ standards at least), the pH balance along the coastal fringe is all out of whack and it’s not suitable

better one comes along! One reasonably successful day though, saw one of my Alveys throw off a massive backlash when a red picked up the bait and hit the afterburners. The line went round the handle so tight that I couldn’t free it, and the rod continued to bend like it was going to snap. Consequently, I was left with no choice but to wind the mono around the handles and over the tangle rather than onto the spool, and basically hope for the best. Then the fish got me in the kelp for a while and I could feel the taut mono dragging through the underwater shrubbery. Fortunately, it came clear and I was able to nurse the fish to the surface on shredded line. While not massive at a couple of kilos in weight, some fish are just simply meant to be caught! REGIONAL BOATING PLAN There was a disappointing turnout of just a couple of dozen people at the Deep Sea Club back in July to hear representatives from the Roads and Maritime Services explain the future of recreational

boating in the Coffs region. It’s symptomatic of the malaise affecting this part of the world. Crown Lands should have been in attendance to explain what was happening with the slipway, but weren’t,

guess when it will commence. Even a look at the plans would be something, but no… 24 HOUR FUEL AT CO-OP There’s some good waterfront news at least. The

Yes, it’s a mess, but at least I caught the fish! The line was well overdue to be changed anyway… and there’s still no progress on fixing the state’s worst boat ramp either. Apparently the ball is in Coffs Harbour Council’s court now. Any ratepayer who’s ever had to wait to get a pothole filled or some other work performed will know that it’s anyone’s

new diesel bowser at the Coffs Harbour fishing co-op is now accepting credit cards, so fuel is available 24/7, which is fantastic news — no more waiting for the commercial boats to finish unloading, and no call-out fees for after-hours refuelling.

Solitary Islands Marine Park Planning a trip to the Coffs Coast? There’s plenty to see and do! The Solitary Islands Marine Park is renowned for its excellent fishing, diving, snorkelling, surfing and many other family activities. Spanning 75km of coastline from Muttonbird Island at Coffs Harbour to Plover Island at Sandon, the Marine Park is over 71,000 hectares in size. The five Solitary Islands and surrounding reefs are a key feature of the Park.

northeast, certainly paid off for first-time marlin fisho Mick Hooper from From page 26

baitfish profiles will work well for all estuary species this month. If you’re visiting from around the state, country or

Mahi mahi in July. Again, how totally weird is that?

for snapper spawning. Right or wrong, that’ll do me for an excuse until a

even from overseas, I hope you enjoy your stay and manage to see more of the Coffs Coast than just the speeding cars and dusty rally trails. For the locals I say

use the rally as an excuse to explore our area. No matter how long you’ve lived here there will still be part of our region you haven’t fished yet. Enjoy the exploration!

PHOTO: NICOLA JOHNSTONE BRETT VERCOE

BRYAN STOCKS

Big Mick from West Wyalong toughs it out on his first marlin with stand-up gear. (Photo courtesy of Peter English)

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Prior to visiting the Park pick up a Zoning Summary and User Guide from the local marine park office at 32 Marina Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty

For further information call 02 6691 0600 www.mpa.nsw.gov.au SEPTEMBER 2014

A hive of activity SOUTH WEST ROCKS

Brent Kirk kempsey@compleatangler.com.au

Winter is done and dusted for another year! It certainly was a bizarre winter here on the mid north coast. We’ve never seen such consistent catches of Spanish and spotted mackerel, mahi mahi and black marlin,

and the action continued right through to the middle of July. With a wealth of bait and water temperatures as high as 24°C at times, I guess it made sense that the fish stayed for so long. Bad weather towards the end of July brought us back to reality, making us wait a couple of months before it all starts happening again. The beginning of

September brings with it the opening of the bass season. Throughout winter in the lower Macleay there weren’t many accidental captures, leading a lot of people to believe that most fish were unable to migrate downstream to spawn due to low water levels. Over the next couple of weeks as people actually start targeting these iconic fish, we’ll get a better idea

A nice late afternoon Macleay River bream.

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of where the fish are in the river, as well as the stage of the cycle they’re in. The Macleay River has an amazing bass fishery and the majority of anglers have a vast respect for the species, with a lot of care taken to release these fish in good shape to fight another day. The bigger, deeper holes will be the best places to start exploring with deep diving lures or spinnerbaits. Working these lures close to structure and along the edges of weed beds should put you in the game. A lot of these fish have not seen a lure in a few months and will respond aggressively to these strangers in their area. To access the best areas a canoe, kayak or small boat is almost a necessity and will provide a fun and healthy day out for all involved. Frederickton through to Smithtown are producing good numbers of flathead at present. The new bypass bridge at Freddo has been producing plenty of bream and no doubt there would be some bass there. Also,

the new refurbished boat ramp provides easy access to the bridge, making it fishable to a wide variety

of watercraft. The lower Macleay has been fishing quite well of a night time but has

These two snapper put a big smile on iron chef Grant Pearson’s face.

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been hit-and-miss by day. Bream and mulloway have been fairly reliable, with tailor and salmon showing up from time to time. Blackfish numbers have not been as high as usual in the river, although there have been plenty in the smaller creeks throughout the valley. Artificial weed flies tied up out of fluorescent green ice dubbing and fished under a float in the traditional method have been deadly on blackfish in these small water systems. This method saves the time it usually takes to gather bait, and these flies can be reused over and over again so there is less time re-baiting and more time catching fish! The southern headlands from Port Macquarie through to Crescent Head have been the best for tailor this season, with Hungry also firing occasionally. Big bream and mulloway are also frequently caught in the region. There have been huge congregations of whitebait all along our coastline and on occasions into the river. These schools have mostly been accompanied by Australian salmon. Few fish in the ocean do not eat these baitfish, so finding the whitebait schools will almost certainly result in success. BOTTOM AND BLUEWATER FISHING Snapper are really starting to come on the chew now with best results coming from the shallower water during lowlight hours. Leatherjackets are still in droves out in the deeper stuff. Cod have been a bit slow out wide. However, a trip out when the conditions allow will not be wasted as kingfish well over 10kg are frequenting just about every piece of structure out there. Just make sure you get out wider than the

leatherjackets, or your day could be an expensive one. I’ve found that 300g knife jigs will do the job nicely on these kings. Fish Rock has reasonable numbers of kingfish and when the current has been running they have been playing the game. For visitors to the area, it is worth noting that only artificials can be used within 200m of the rock. Smaller knife jigs, soft plastics and stickbaits will account for just as many fish in this region as used to be caught on bait. It is definitely worth a bit of experimentation out there as some days these fish will be triggered only by certain methods. Yellowfin tuna of various sizes have been popping up randomly, with Hat Head being the most consistent area. However, they are on one day and nowhere to found the next! Smoky Beach has plenty of good water along it, and

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Bring on springtime PORT MACQUARIE

David Poulton pmbc@drsm.com.au

We’ve had possibly one of the driest and coolest winters we’ve seen on the Mid-North Coast in years, so let’s hope we some rain this month so it will ad a little colour to our estuarine systems. Why do we want a little colour in the water? Because at the time of writing the Hastings River is as clear as a bottle of gin. The fish don’t seem to mind this and get about their daily routines, but the clarity does make them a lot harder to catch in daylight hours. It’s amazing how a little colour in the water can make a world of difference. It seems to relax fish and entices them to bite more confidently. Water clarity doesn’t just affect bream – it affects most estuarine species – but bream are one of the hardest to fool. If you’re looking for a good feed of bream, evening sessions will undoubtedly be your best option. The

best locations will be deeper holes in the lower reaches, but with little rain bream will start to push up our estuaries this month. That means spots around Rawdon Island on the Hastings River, The Hatch on the Maria River will be good places to start. The rock walls in the lower reaches will also be good locations to source fish. The best bait will be whitebait rigged on either a set of small ganged hooks or a long shank hook with a half hitch around the tail to make the bait sit flat on the hook. Fishing them lightly weighted and allowing them to drift down the water column is a highly efficient way to catch a bream. Slab baits of bonito and mullet will also work well. LUDERICK Those chasing a feed of luderick will do no better than soaking some weed along our rock walls. However this time of year will see them pushing further up our systems. With good locations to target them from the bank at a premium, the number one position on

the Camden Haven River will be at Henry Kendall Reserve on Stingray Creek. This man-made rock wall has been a solid producer of luderick for years and will prove to be a top location this month. For those with a boat, getting into the leases and fishing the channels with some decent flow will also prove highly successful. The top spots are in Limeburner’s Creek of the Hastings River, and the old abandoned leases in the mouth of the Maria River. Weed will be a go to

These bream were caught up at the hatch while looking for coloured water. OFFSHORE Offshore action this month will see the inshore reefs starting to fire, with snapper being the primary target species. Soft plastics will account for many of them but dedicated bait fishermen will know a decent snapper can’t resist a well-presented squid bait. If the currents aren’t fierce, anchoring on the inshore reefs off the golf course and Bonny Hills in around 10-15m of water will be worth a try. A berley trail will also increase your chances, and another asset when targeting fish in this manner is a good sounder. It will enable you to locate fish and find a suitable bottom where you can anchor and set

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bait, however live yabbies and peeled prawns will also yield good results. FLATHEAD Flathead will start moving around and looking to feed up after a cool winter. With an increase in water temps baitfish will be plentiful, and flathead will be looking to put on some weight and eat up before summer. That means that targeting flathead will be a bit of fun, and if you’re lucky you might snag a few

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rain the fish won’t have as much chance to push really far upstream. It could possibly be a bumper season as they will more than likely school in larger pools upriver of Wauchope around Koree Island, Brombin and Hardys Plains. Canoe runs will prove to be the best option with early season fish, being more susceptible to hardbody lures, spinner baits and soft plastics. It will be a matter of locating fish and concentrating your efforts in those areas. The tops and bottoms of the pools are the best places to start. Just remember to look after your catch and return fish to the water as quickly as possible to minimise stress to the fish, and remember that

bigger fish. The best bait will be live poddy mullet for sure, especially when targeting bigger fish. However, if you’re after a feed you can’t go past a few well-presented soft plastics. Anything in the 3-5” range on a 1/8oz to 1/4oz jighead will prove successful. I regularly get asked why I vary the weight for flathead, seeing as these fish simply lie on the bottom ready to ambush their prey. I explain that the water depth determines what prey you’re imitating. I like to use a lighter weight in shallow water because their prey in these waters will be smaller and less likely to make a big disturbance on the bottom. In deeper water the flathead target bigger prey, which will disturb the bottom. In this situation disturbance will gain their attention, and if they are hungry it will entice them to move in search of an easy feed. I like to impart an action of a fleeing baitfish by flicking my rod tip high, lifting the lure off the bottom then allowing it to settle again on the bottom before repeating the process. Just remember to please take what you need rather than your limit.

Spring bass like this little beauty can be lots of fun and react well to lightweight spinnerbaits. up for a session on snapper. Those venturing further offshore will likely still do battle with leatherjackets. If they are your cup of tea, some wire trace will be in order and any cut bait will have you into some decent fish. FRESHWATER After a cracker season on bass last year it will be interesting to see how our native freshwater fish go this season. With very little

bass and estuary perch have a bag limit of two fish. So we have some warmer weather, favourable conditions for fishing and some good fish on offer. Bring it on! I love spring, it signals the end of winter and reminds us that summer isn’t far away. Make sure you make the most of your fishing and enjoy your time on the water no matter what form of fishing you are enjoying.

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One coastline, three fantastic holiday destinations Macleay Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in Australia, which explains why its one of the most sought after coastal holiday destinations in New South Wales. There are several holiday parks in this region that provide the perfect getaway for the fishing family. GRASSY HEAD HOLIDAY PARK Hidden amid the lush coastal rainforest of Way Way State Forest and bordered by kilometres of pristine golden beaches, Grassy Head Holiday Park offers an abundance of fishing opportunities. The park itself is accommodating to the recreational angler with plenty of room for the boat and the car. There’s plenty to see and do to keep non-fisher members of the family busy while anglers are reeling in a feed. Guests can choose from recreational activities such as walks through the rainforest or along the beach, more active

pursuits like swimming or surfing in some great places, or fishing in the river, from the rocks or along the beaches. At the end of Millington Avenue is the Macleay River, famous for very good fishing. Some of the fish caught at Grassy Head include bream, drummer, flathead, luderick, mulloway, rock blackfish, tailor, trevally and whiting. Grassy Head Holiday Park is the perfect location for those who enjoy what nature has to offer. The seaside village is also only to 10 minutes’ drive from Stuarts Point village, 45km from Kempsey CBD or 19km from Macksville CBD.

STUARTS POINT HOLIDAY PARK Stuarts Point Holiday Park is a secluded and serene riverside hideaway which offers clean, wellequipped facilities for the whole family, including a playground for the kids. The park offers a boat ramp for launching and ample mooring for small boats and there are fish cleaning tables and a camp kitchen to cook your catch. A boat wash bay is located near the main amenities block There is a wide range of choice for every angler with prime beach, river and bluewater fishing spots. If you wish to collect your

own bait, yabbies (nippers) pipis and sandworms are abundant. For the everyday family fisher there is no shortage of bream, whiting, flathead, blackfish, mullet and mud crabs in the river. For the offshore angler there are rich grounds close by for snapper, mulloway, teraglin, mackerel, pearl perch, kingfish and billfish. Charters are available at nearby South West Rocks. The Stuarts Point Holiday Park is also only a short stroll to village shops, takeaways, the local tavern and the Workers Club. It’s 35km from Kempsey CBD or 25km from Macksville CBD.

HAT HEAD HOLIDAY PARK Surrounded by the unspoilt grandeur of the National Park, Hat Head Holiday Park is in a cosy coastal village which is a paradise for fishers. With sensational beach fishing north to Smoky Cape and one of the State’s leading land-based game platforms on the headland itself there are plenty of options. The offshore fishing is every bit as brilliant, with great snapper, mulloway, Spanish and spotted mackerel, cobia, pearl perch, marlin and kingfish. The creek boat ramp is capable of handling most offshore trailer boats but crews need to don lifejackets to head seawards; the sometimes

shallow entrance to Korogoro Creek is classified as a river bar by NSW Maritime. The creek itself yields good catches of luderick, bream, flathead, mangrove jacks and bass, whiting and mud crabs. There are fish cleaning tables at the boat ramp and a camp kitchen and BBQ area at the holiday park to cook your catch. Delight in strolling through the bush or swimming with the children in the safety of the serene beach. Go snorkelling in the pristine waters of Korogoro Creek and see the fish, occasional sea turtle and other aquatic creatures. For a day out or more extensive supplies, Kempsey and South West Rocks are less than 30 minutes’ drive away.

Time for a change FORSTER

David Seaman dseamo@bigpond.com

It is hard to believe that spring is with us already. The mild winter, warm, and clear water all combined to cause a change to the traditional fishing, especially from the rocks. O ff s h o r e , the leatherjackets turned up, though not in the numbers that have plagued the area in past years. The trag and snapper fishing has been less than consistent, though

some good fish over the 5kg mark have been finding their way to the cleaning tables. Squid seems to be the preferred bait, which makes sense as we have just passed the cuttlefish spawning period. The calm seas and clear water made it incredibly easy for boaters to gather a few live squid from Haydens Reef and the reef area around Bennetts Head, and I dare say there will still be some around this month. The water has been so clear and flat at times that squidding from the shoreline was also possible, with Bennetts and

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Blackhead headlands being ideal locations. I’m hoping that this month goes off with a bang because the rock fishing over the last two months has been subdued. There have been good fish caught, it is just that it has been very ordinary in comparison to previous years. Anecdotally I’d suggest that the lack of rain and subsequent run-off to the sea is to blame for the coastal fish drought, but I’m sure it is a combination of factors. The fish are there and they have to eat, but they are wary. Pig fishing last week saw us draw a blank until the sun dropped and darkness set in. Then, from a little rocky beach, they turned on and consecutive bites produced the type of fish you generally pull during the day. So have a think – if the water is too clear and the fish aren’t cooperating try hitting the same spot in the low light periods. There will be a better chance of bream, luderick, pigs, and tailor, mixed with salmon. I promise the results will come, provided you mix up the traditional fishing scenario. The beaches have been one saving grace along the coast with plenty of tailor and a few salmon along the sandy strip. Seven Miles at Janies Corner has been fishing well, as it does, and rocky ends of other beaches are producing too. There have been reports of some good bream and the odd school jew from the surf, so an early morning fish from the sand would be a good choice. School jew have entertained the wall anglers, with fish around the 750-900mm mark being the average for baiters and lure

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Pigs at night are not uncommon and the darkness helps when the water is clear. fishos. The odd big run and bust-off could be a kingfish, as they travel in and out of the lake with several fish being seen in Breckenridge Channel menacing the bait schools in front of the Lakes and Oceans pub. The kings will also raid Forster Harbour and get stuck into the baitfish under the main wharf. One guy I spoke to had his bait jig demolished as he gathered yellowtail from the wharf, but he did tell me there were some hefty bream working his berley offerings too. The wharf may well be a good spot to take the kids for a fish over the school holidays. Bream and big blackfish are scattered along the break walls from the co-op to ends of the walls and with a bit of rough weather the points are worth a fish for pigs. For those chasing big bream, the leases around the Paddocks and Wallamba mouth are the place to start. Even if you are not fishing with lures, a lightly weighted bait cast along the lease poles and edges is great practice in fighting and controlling big fish around structure. The bream and blackfish will continue to return to the estuary from the coast so now is the best time to take advantage of the concentration of fish in the areas near the bridge and lease structures. At this time of year I find the flathead can be spread from the rivers to the shallow bay of the lake where the sun warms the water and the baitfish gather and feed. Prawn and fish pattern lures or live yabbies and prawn baits will be key to taking home a bag of flatties in the 40-50cm range. The whiting too will be moving by the end of this month, and the lower

lake and entrance sand flats will produce plenty of sand whiting in the sand hollows and the channel weed edges. Beach worms and yabbies

efforts in the lower, larger pools of the freshwater (even the upper brackish) and you should still find fish schooled up at the bottom

The quality and condition of the bream around the racks this month shows they have been in a good paddock through winter. on light leaders rigged on a running ball sinker is all that’s needed. The whiting on poppers style of fishing won’t get to its peak until early November but there may be a few early starters by the end of this month. The bass season has triggered a few locals to get back to the freshwater, and with the lack of rain the post-spawn fish won’t have travelled too far back up the rivers. Concentrate your

of rapids and step-ups like Killawarra. Don’t be afraid to throw surface lures early in the season because the fish will be looking to put on condition for the coming summer and they will have a go. Here’s to looking forward to a better spring. I have no doubt the fishing may be tough, especially if we don’t get some rain soon, just to recharge the lake and revitalise the coastal fringe.

Fish are late this year HARRINGTON-TAREE

Ian Pereira ianpereira@aapt.net.au

Once again the fish seem to be at least a month slower than a decade ago. At the moment we have bream in the estuary that are about half roed-up and will not be ready to spawn for six weeks at least. The rock blackfish used to spawn at the end of July at Crowdy Head but now there are very few fish around the rocks and only a few of them have any roe in them. It may be that they will not spawn until the end of December as they did about eight years ago. The tailor are still here in numbers like they used to be 30 years ago. It is some time since the tailor stayed this late. At least the luderick have remained true to form and are in the estuary in their thousands. They can be seen moving along the rocks of the retaining wall at the mouth of the river and are also pushing up the river along the edges of the weed beds. ESTUARY The fishing in the river has been great over the past month. Catches of bream have

been made by all fishermen with the best anglers getting their bag limit of fish every trip. The larger fish have moved up the coast while the smaller, half-roed fish are

still in the estuary. These fish range in size from 500-800g but they are just as tasty. Luderick have been biting just as well and weed fishermen have been scoring

Bream will still be spawning by the time this magazine goes to print.

Blades will still work well for bream in September.

bags of fish during the day. Those using yabbies at night have also bagged out. There have been some small school jew to 3.5kg caught on yabby baits by bream anglers fishing the walls at the mouth of the river, while further upstream larger fish to 17kg have been taken on live bait. Flathead have been quiet with only occasional fish being bagged. BEACH AND ROCK The beaches and headlands have fished exceptionally well for tailor and salmon on lures and bait. The best tailor have been weighing 1.2kg gutted and gilled. Crowdy Head Rocks

has produced the best catches of tailor and salmon at dawn and dusk on lures. The end of the sea wall has produced tailor, salmon and mulloway to 16kg. The mulloway have been taking soft plastics spun on a slow roll. OFFSHORE Snapper have been the most caught species, with fish coming from the southern grounds off Old Bar and the reefs up around Mermaid. Most of the fish go around a1.5kg with the best ones tipping the scales at 5kg. Leatherjackets are around in thousands and once they become a nuisance it is best to move a bit upcurrent to give them the slip for a while.

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Flathead can be caught on the drift on the grounds off the mouth of the Manning and most anglers fishing here have been scoring a bag limit of fish. September is supposed to be the start of spring but over the last few years it has been more like winter. Considering the lateness of the bream and the drummer I would say that fishing will not start to improve until the beginning of October. Bonito should appear in September to give the outside anglers a bit of action on the trolling lines though, and drummer should be here in numbers and the walls will be worth a try for bream and luderick.

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Estuary fish become more active PORT STEPHENS

Billy Gillon

September is the start of the transition period between winter and summer fish species. It can be a bit hard to predict whether the water will be warming up yet but it is fairly safe to say the strong westerlies are now behind us. That said, hopefully now the water should be warming a little, causing the estuary fish to become more active. Flathead are one great example – as soon as that water temperature warms up a few degrees the flathead start to break out of there lazy winter modes and become a lot more active. Once the water warms they can be caught on a lot

Hayden Gillon with an average size bay bream caught floating a peeled prawn near some structure. A typical estuary bag which can be expected this month. twitchier and faster retrieves and in shallower water. Now is a great time to fish inside the bay for

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bream, as the oyster racks and break walls should be holding some nice size fish. Although lures are very popular and trendy for bream, bait is still a go-to option for many anglers out there and why shouldn’t it be? There are plenty of good bream baits out there, from peeled prawns to chicken breast, but no matter which bait you choose the important thing is to give it a natural look in the water. This can be achieved by using lightly weighted sinkers and leaders. Berley also really helps a lot. While it does attract pickers it certainly does school the bream up and get them feeding. Cheap canned cat food and chicken pellets work well and should have the bream schooled up and feeding in no time. The luderick should now be starting to thin out a little and over the next month we should see them definitely taper off from what they have been. A few nice school mulloway are starting to come on the bite again now, with live yellowtail and slimies taking most fish. Around towards Karuah, Middle Island and any deep hole you find is worth dropping live

bait. Fish around the tide changes and you’re in with a chance. Don’t forget that daytime mulloway are also a possibility, especially on cloudy overcast days. Also remember the size limits on mulloway are now 70cm with a two-fish bag limit; Fisheries crack down hard on anybody caught with illegal size fish.

Offshore you should be able to manage a feed of snapper but it has been a bit of a slow season. Fishing with plastics around Fingal and Broughten are worth a shot, just watch the marine parks in those areas. Edith breakers also produce regular catches of solid reds, with bright coloured soft plastics in the 5-7” range working well. Inside the bay also often surprises me with the large

snapper it can produce, especially the few days after a large swell. Little Beach Jetty has become known for the reds it can produce as well as the co-op break wall. Quality frozen bait works well and fresh bait works even better. You may have to put up with plagues of smaller picker fish and rays, but once you hook up to a solid bay red it’s all worth it.

Paul Mazaroli with a 106 cm jewie tagged and released with Kris Hickson at Port Macquarie.

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What a great winter we’ve had on this part of the coast! We’ve enjoyed mild days and just cool nights, and let’s hope this stays like this so we can still get out and have a fish. It’s been pretty good on the close reefs with only a few wild westerly days keeping anglers at home. Starting on the close reefs there has been a nannygai plague with a hell of a lot blue morwong joining them. Some great kingfish have shown up on the Marbles and North reefs, along with squire and snapper on the Dumping grounds and school jewfish turning up here at night. Salmon have shown up in mass schools off Merewether and are hanging out in Stockton Bight also. Bream, tailor and squid are being taken but along with all these the winter fish are mixing in. Leatherjackets and larger than large yellowtail are probably the reason there are so many kingfish around.

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SEPTEMBER 2014

Steve Kiss with a sensational winter snapper that hit the scales at 8kg cleaned.

ROCK AND BEACH Off the rocks bream, luderick, drummer and the dreaded sweep are biting. Early mornings are best, and don’t be surprised to bump into tailor around sunset either, with a few being taken off Nobbys and Stockton walls. They’re not huge fish but they’re fun on light gear. Groper have still been busting up even the heaviest gear off Stockton wall. An Alvey spooled with 60lb braid or 50lb mono with even heavier traces are the sure way to hold onto these fish as they try to blow your gear up as they dive into holes and over reefs. The beaches on windless days have been fishing for bream, tailor and salmon. I was told a guy hooked into a great white shark off Stockton Beach. Thinking it was a large whaler, he fought on for over two hours only to lose it. They saw the fin only a few times so couldn’t really identify it. Remember whites are protected and shouldn’t be targeted off the beach, even if there are a lot around. To page 37

Lake turns it on – expect a sensational September SWANSEA

Jason Scerri jayro@hotmail.com.au

We are getting closer by the day to the end of this cold stuff. It has certainly been a cold winter for us but we have also seen some great fishing which helped to ease the winter pain. We have had salmon schools as thick as ever, great catches of mulloway, some solid bream reports, big female flathead and the offshore kingfish have been on the chew so we can’t complain too much. Although I do enjoy winter I am really looking forward to some warm summer weather and hot fishing this year. THE LAKE In September the lake can really turn it on and it’s a great month for some very solid bream. My best bream from Lake Mac have come each September so I’m very keen for more of the same this month. Although not traditionally a prime month for bream on the flats it is a great time to pull some real horse bream off them. The numbers are often down a little but you will find some very big bream on the many flats throughout the lake. Shallow running hardbodies such as the Damiki DTSCO or Asakura S hornet are two of my favourites on the flats, and natural colours such as browns and clears work well. You will find fish in that 0.5-1.5m range. Some bait fishers have also been seeing great numbers of bream fishing extremely lightly weighted baits of peeled prawns in these shallow waters with fish to 40cm not uncommon. Salmon are still about in good numbers for those who love a little sportfishing. These speedsters have been providing plenty of fun on light gear. Pro Lure From page 36

Steve Kiss, a brilliant angler who has caught everything through his life, sent me a photo of a snapper he caught that went 8kg cleaned, so it would definitely have been on the 10kg mark. From a close reef off the coast it’s a magnificent catch. He also fought a cod for over two hours on light gear only to find out it was a protected black cod. I have seen photos of Steve’s younger day adventures with yellowfin tuna over 80kg, and I have to say he certainly has the knack of finding the biggest fish. I fished

flick bait soft plastics in chopper colour have been accounting for many salmon catches this year, with 80-100mm being the go-to size lure. Once again we have seen some very large flathead

plenty of good bream in the washes. A lot of anglers choose to spin lures from the rocks while they have a live bait out under a float, and it’s these live baits that have nabbed the odd kingfish. It’s great to see

can get away with scoring some good kings without losing too many jigs. The reds have also been very good this year with nice catches coming from areas such as Terrigal right through to the Fingal Bay

a real problem so hopefully we see this settle down for the summer ahead and hopefully the marlin bite that should come with it.

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taken over winter and they should still be about during September. Deep water is still fishing well with many fish coming from the 7-10m areas. Soft plastics around the 4-5” mark are doing well, and bait fishers are getting some good fish as well by simply drifting half pilchards along the bottom in these same areas. This year has seen a load of flathead in the 40-50cm range; it’s always nice to grab a few at that size for the table and then the big girls can be released to do their thing. Bolton Point, Coal Point and Fishing Point areas have all been producing. OCEAN ROCKS AND BEACHES Anglers have been getting some solid fish of late and we are even seeing the odd kingfish being landed from local rock ledges. There have been many good catches of tailor and salmon, with with him one night and he hooked two mulloway on a kids’ light rod baited with pilchard, and landed them both. THE MONTH AHEAD When it comes to the fishing in September, the Hunter River harbour can give up big mulloway for those live baiting. There are also groper around if you want to put in the effort, tailor on chromies and salmon off the walls. You can get squid on the wreck side of Stockton wall, bream around the wharfs and you might even bump into some estuary perch at this time of year in the harbour. Happy fishing!

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Tim Watson with a kingfish that couldn’t resist his live bait. and hopefully indicates a good summer ahead for them also. OFFSHORE September is a great time here off our coast. The kingfish are about both in size and numbers. Deep rigged live baits such as squid and yakkas are scoring some great results from offshore reefs, and the deep water jigging brigade is producing as always. The leatherjackets are hit-andmiss so if you’re lucky you

and everywhere in between. Even inshore reefs have been quite productive on school size reds which has been good to see this year. On the game fishing front, a few solid sharks have been landed and a few tuna are also out there in the mix. but they are wide and there is a load of water being covered to get the bites that have been managed. The weather has also been an issue for offshore anglers with windy weekends being

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SEPTEMBER 2014

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SEPTEMBER 2014

Approaching the tipping point CENTRAL COAST

Glenn Ellis-Helmers

Now we’ve reached a turning point, some good fishing lies ahead in the coming months. An improvement may still be a while off yet, but if we’re patient the rewards will eventually come. It’s all warming up and there’s a lot more light in the sky, but at the same time we can still get some cold, wintery weather this month and those westerly winds are often problematic, especially for those anglers trying to head offshore or fish the lakes. From a smaller boat or kayak it’s even more difficult. As water temps just begin to rise a little, flathead kick into gear. They may still be in deeper water at this stage, where bouncing a soft plastic or slow rolling a deep diving hardbody or vibe is likely to wake them up. Some good flatties are caught at this

a few days of nice sunny weather around 25°C or more, it’s probably worth casting lures around the shallower sun-warmed bays or rocky points. I wouldn’t be getting too enthusiastic just yet though. Again, be patient and eventually bream fishing will get better. A few whiting, flounder, small mulloway, tailor and salmon are others that have been caught in the estuaries lately, and as it gets warmer the whiting will pick up, while the sambos should thin out and disappear. We’re also heading in the direction of the prawning season, but it’s probably a bit too cold to expect much in the way of those tasty crustaceans just yet. ROCK AND BEACH On the beaches salmon have been thick as they usually are at this time of year. I live very close to a beach on the northern part of the central coast and occasionally get down there for a flick with the

at a lure. Still, it’s worth a try and these fish certainly put on the fireworks when hooked on gear that’s not meant for beach fishing. The local rocks around Munmorah and Norah Head have also been good for a few salmon when they move in close, but there is a bit more variety from the rocks than there is from the beaches at this time of year. Some decent drummer, blackfish and bream can still be caught from most of our ledges this month. Silver trevally, groper and tailor are also quite likely to turn up in catches this month. That’s if the seas aren’t too rough or too flat. At the time of typing, there are monstrous swells rolling in as a result of a deep low pressure out in the Tasman, but September often has more in the way of westerly winds, which turn the ocean dead flat. OFFSHORE This is probably one of the worst months to head offshore, but it’s still very

the shallower inshore reefs at the moment. Snapper fishing here may not be as great as it is up north, but the opportunity to hook into a few big reds is quite realistic. If the bigger fish don’t show, a few pan-sized snapper can save the day. Even though many locals fish much wider here for snapper in 50-100m, remember that if big reds can be caught in 25m off Sydney, Coffs Harbour or Wooli then they can also be caught in the same depths along the central coast. Unfortunately the ramp at Norah Head is still a way off being completed at this stage, so heading out from Swansea or Terrigal remains the best bet for anglers in the Wyong Shire. The Norah Head ramp is supposed to be ready by early summer, so fingers crossed that will be the case.

Salmon have been pretty thick along our beaches lately and they should still be there right through September. Most beaches attract the sambos, so keep an eye out and scan the gutters for darker patches of fish.

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10w Zoom LED Headlamp This whiting took a Gulp worm at Erina Creek. As the local waters begin to warm up whiting will become more active. time of year in the deeper channels around Brisbane Waters and the lower areas of Lake Macquarie, while Tuggerah Lakes fish tend to be smaller. Still though, a few better fish are sometimes caught from The Entrance bridge down to the channel mouth. Blackfish will still be available in the lakes and Brisbane Waters. These fish remain a good standby this month, as bream, flathead or whiting may not always be easy to catch. Then again, the blackfish can also be a bit tricky as we move into spring, and good weed for bait may not always be easy to find either. Bream are still around, but may remain in smaller numbers or be harder to catch on lures until it gets a bit warmer. If we do get

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Norah Head after a low out in the Tasman Sea whipped up huge seas. This sort of thing has been a problem for local anglers through winter, but September is notorious for westerly winds which blow the ocean flat. light bream gear. On some days they’ll smash almost anything you throw at them, while on other days you’ll be lucky if they even look

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SEPTEMBER 2014

Back on the hit list THE HAWKSBURY

Dan Selby dan@sydneysportfishing.com.au

It’s open season on the bass and estuary perch here in NSW and there will be plenty of anglers heading out chasing trophy fish over the coming months. The upper tidal water from north Richmond to lower Portland fishes well at this

time of year as residual schools of fish await the warming water temps before heading further upstream as the heat of summer sets in. If the lack of rain continues some great fishing will be on offer as the competition for food increases. Soft plastics, spinnerbaits and deep diving crankbaits cast to the rock walls, weed beds, tree snags

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and back eddies will account for quality fish. As the month progresses and the wattles come into full blossom we can expect the surface bite to pick up. I’ve found the water dragons to be a great sign of when the air and water temps are warm enough to start throwing surface lures with consistent results. Small poppers, paddlers and stickbaits cast tight to structure and worked slowly through the strike zone is a very visual and exciting way to catch bass. I know of a lot of anglers who exclusively fish for them this way all season. The bream will start to push back upstream as the water temps increase, feeding on school prawns and micro bait in the lower reaches from Brooklyn to Sentry box. Hopping small

Bass and EPs are back on the hit list and can be found feeding side by side at times, as David and son Riley found out recently. locate these tasty fish. Trolling is another great way of covering ground and looking for active fish. Small profiles of 2-3” that get down 3-4m are perfect for the river. Natural and bright colours will both have their day. I like to run one of each to see what is working best, and then swap both to the successful colour on the day. Salmon and tailor will be on offer in Broken Bay, Pittwater and Cowan chasing the micro bait that floods in from the ocean. Keep an eye out for any bird activity and approach on the upwind side. Small metal slices and soft plastic stickbaits are the favourites to fool these often fussy feeders, but casting clear poppers and walkthe-dog style stickbaits can turn on some spectacular surface hits. If the fish go

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deep and are somewhat spooky try to locate them on the sounder and sink your slice or plastic through the school and retrieve vertically with a varied retrieve. I have had a sensational season on the mulloway and this month should continue to produce some quality fish. Live baiting will come back into effect as the bait gets easier to source, with yakkas, herring, squid and legal tailor all on the menu. Lure fishing has been producing consistent results through winter, due to the fact that you can move around and cover lots of likely spots in one tide change looking for those actively feeding fish. Lure selection should replicate the food sources found in the river, and I’d suggest a prawn or herring imitation this month.

132cm of lure crunching mulloway tagged and released by the author.

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soft plastic minnows, grubs and creature baits down the rock walls in the back eddies is challenging but very rewarding. Snags are common but if you’re not in amongst it you probably won’t get the number and quality of fish. Some of the oyster leases are starting to be worked by the pros in the lower reaches and these structures house some impressive fish. Casting shallow crankbaits, poppers and small plastics parallel to the racks is not for the faint hearted, with most anglers upping their leader strength to around

10-12lb to help extract the big blue-noses that call the leases home. Flathead will become more active as the water temps climb above 15°C. They will follow the school prawns upstream before returning in a couple of months’ time to spawn in the lower reaches. The trawlers are a great indication the prawns are on the up and up, and it’s a smart idea to fish the reaches in the area where the trawlers are. Use your sounder to find a likely drop-off or drift the mangrove edges with lightly weighed baits and plastics to

Big blue-nose bream like this 40cm+ fish Jarrod fooled whilst chasing mulloway will stretch your light gear to the limits.

A tricky time of year PITTWATER

Peter Le Blang plfishfingers@bigpond.com

This can be a tricky time of year to fish on Pittwater. The water is cold and very clear so a change of targets is required. The colder water is seeing some salmon on the change of the tide towards Lion Island, and tailor

to target bread-and-butter species, you must be in stealth mode. The area to catch bream has been the Pittwater side of West Head, and berley is needed to get a few fish around the boat. There are some trevally in the same area as well as the odd flounder. These fish have been responding to a variety of baits, with oily fish fillets and prawns getting most bites. Light tackle will see

back in the boat for nicks, and if there is a brown slime on the line, move to another area. If you are after squid then once again this month you should be able to catch a few bigger ones for dinner. Catching squid at the moment is a little slower than a month ago but if you try at Careel Bay or Palm Beach weed beds you should go home with a smile on your face. There are still some

Flathead are still being caught along Broken Bay.

As Morio found out, catching squid can be a messy affair.

Blue-spot flathead are still around on the sand. are amongst the washes. The surface activity is not always a sure thing but if you troll the headlands with a hardbodied lure there will be a few fish caught. The incoming tide seems to be the best to fish when fishing Broken Bay. The westerly winds have been blowing hard and the water is clear along Pittwater. For those wanting

more bites, and you should float the bait down with only enough weight to get it on the bottom. Another area to target bream has been the rocky shoreline between Portuguese Beach and Soldiers Point. Once again it is important to float the baits down the berley trail and keep the tackle light. Check your leader every time it is

If you find a patch of balled up baitfish over the hard ground get your lines down straight away. If no decent fish are caught after a few drifts you may need to anchor to entice a larger fish if there are any about. Don’t forget to berley and fish in the trail. KINGFISH For those after a big winter Pittwater kingfish, it’s the same scenario as last month I’m afraid. The key is small live cuttlefish and covering ground. Small cuttlefish are caught along any of the

rocky areas along Pittwater and once a couple have been caught try amongst the moorings along the eastern side of Pittwater and around Scotland Island for a kingfish. There are quite a few fish being shown on the sounders but they don’t always want to play. If you are near Palm Beach an hour before the high tide, try at West Head or The Motor for a big king. Both these areas have seen big fish cruise through on more than one occasion. The other thing that I have found is that during

winter these bigger kingfish prefer to hang a lot deeper in the water column and you have to keep lowering your bait until it is at the same depth as the targeted fish. I hope that this report gets you to dust off the rods and get out on Pittwater/ Broken Bay to enjoy a great sport with people that matter to you. • Peter Le Blang operates Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters, phone 02 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351, visit www.estuaryfishing charters.com.au

big squid lurking around Barrenjoey Headland if the conditions allow you to try in close. The better colours have been the more natural colours, with brown or gold getting the most attention. For those who like chasing luderick they are starting to show up at the wharves along Pittwater. According to the local fishermen, finding green weed has been pretty tricky so it is best to buy some at a tackle shop before arriving. The wharves to try are at Church Point, Taylors Point (high tide), Bayview Wharf and Careel Bay Wharf. The fish aren’t thick but with patience and berley they seem to show up. OFFSHORE Offshore the fishing has been quiet but with the dying westerlies this month we might get a decent drift in. When the planets have all aligned and allowed us to drift with the current there have been fish to be caught. Morwong and nannygai have been pouncing on prawns, flathead have liked pilchards and when snapper have been found the better sized fish have loved freshly caught squid pieces. Some of the better fish have been caught along the gravel grounds but most are coming from the 60-80m range of water and near or on hard reef. The broken ground off Long Reef through to Mona Vale has been great if you are prepared to find the fish before sending a line down. SEPTEMBER 2014

Barrels heading up the coast SYDNEY NORTH

Darren Thomas

Since last edition the Sydney offshore fishing has gone tuna crazy with another awesome season of barrels heading up the coast. Jervis Bay and Bermagui have

out the front. Ten years ago it was nearly unheard of for Sydney to have a bluefin season but now it’s almost expected. Not to be left too far behind, some terrific yellowfin tuna have also been caught but most of the interest lies with the big blue barrels.

are having a lot of success, probably due to our calmer conditions. While our seas have been down a lot more smaller boats have had the ability to get out to the grounds, hence more fish are being encountered and captured. Two successful anglers this season have been

Brett Lee and Dominic Thornely with Dom’s jumbo ‘fin. been having solid seasons and plenty of these fish have ventured north with the currents, and some of the biggest bluefin Sydney has seen have been caught

Both cubing and trolling have been successful methods when it comes to capturing these species. Additionally, one of this season’s secrets is that the smaller skirted lures

cricketers Brett Lee and Dominic Thornely. Myself, James Thackeray and the guys headed out, and after seeing the amount of boats in the Browns mountain vicinity we

quickly opted to head further East to Heatons Hill in fairly calm conditions. We trolled around for six hours before marking a fish on the sounder, and no sooner had that happened than off screamed the 80w and Brett caught his first bluefin of 85kg. Boated and on deck, out went the same outfit again and in no time Dom’s fish was boat ide and looking every bit of its 135kg. Tuna seem to be an afternoon bite more often than not, but when that sea is staying flat make the early run out and you might just hook a barrel. Closer to the coast we are still getting plenty of kings at Long Reef and surrounding reefs. Most fish are being caught on fresh baits and soft plastics and are just legal, but while our seas are flat these are a great species for new anglers to hone their skills on, particularly if you complement the fight with light line. Some good snapper have been coming in and these fish will get bigger over the next month or so before the warmer currents shy them off a little. Lightly weighted baits of tuna or mackerel are being taken by some good fish up to 6kg. The super clear water isn’t helping so try fishing into the

Binga was stoked with this hard-fighting bluefin tuna.

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THE WORLDS FIRST SOLAR POWERED TENT POLE evening and use a big bait. The prospect of a good-sized feed coupled with the lack of light helps detract their attention from your boat. Sydney is having a current run of big squid with night time being the preferred time to target these critters. Big jigs are the secret, as is moving around from spot to spot. While our ocean edges are reasonably flat try some of the deeper water spots like South Curl Curl, Diggers Point and Queenscliff Point for some of these bigger models. Also make sure you have some glow in the dark

jigs in your tackle box as these can be easily sighted on the retrieve at night around the rocks. The calmer seas often slow the fishing down on the beaches but this month has been promising yet again. Plenty of whiting are still being caught, as are tailor, salmon and bream. Early morning and evening sessions have been preferred (possibly due to excessive water visibility) with plenty of success being in these lower light conditions. Light lines are almost the norm for this time of year for these species so put the heavy kits

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away for a month or so until the water heats up, hopefully motivating a few more species to get on the chew. Cold water will often slow down the metabolism of some of these fish so pay some quality attention to your baits and berley as this might help in attracting fish to feed. Some of the more successful beaches are Warriewood, Narrabeen, Dee Why and Manly. If you’d like to know more, drop into Fishouttawater at Manly Vale and see the guys or myself and we’ll be happy to be a part of getting you into that fish of a lifetime.

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Big blues from the headlands SYD ROCK & BEACH

Alex Bellissimo alex@bellissimocharters.com

September is usually the slowest month for a lot of species, although that can vary from year to year. Off the ocean rocks the kings can make a surprise showing this month, but you can’t be sure if it will happen. Groper, silver drummer, rock blackfish, trevally and salmon are the safest bets, so they’re what I chase in September. GROPER Groper are a tough advisory! It takes heavy gear and often smart tactics to extract these fish, especially in variable situations. The flat seas we generally get this month are great for targeting this species. Typically crabs are the best bait and the red crabs and scotchies top the list. The purple/black rock crab (the ones that are generally above the high tide mark) also catch their share of groper. A client recently caught a nice fish just under 10kg, and that was his first groper ever off the rocks! It was in an area that had a lot of deep crevices and holes. It was a hard fish to land with the 18kg mono becoming very damaged. After you land a prize fish you should look at the state

2-6kg range have been landed lately. There is a big blue on every headland. In some cases there are dozens of them or, on some larger headlands, hundreds of them! Just ask any

It doesn’t get much better than this! Chris Fox’s first groper off the rocks was a fraction under 10kg. diver – they’ll tell you the most common tablefish they see are red morwong and groper. Try bluefish when it’s flat. South and North Curl Curl, Dee Why, Long Reef, Warriewood, South Avalon, South Palm Beach rocks and Barrenjoey have been producing for my clients, and for other anglers as well. When groper fishing you’ll find that a wellpresented, whole hard shell red crab won’t attract many pests other than leatherjackets. Most

Regular client Daniel Dekell enjoys catching quality pigs on Daiwa Segate Hyper, Alvey reels and Live Fibre rods. He’s been picking up fish to 50cm. of your line; sometimes you’ll realise the odds were way in the groper’s favour! Some anglers use 30-40kg line but that’s just skull dragging in my opinion. With the right tactics you can use lighter line and still come out on top. It makes fishing the rocks for these species that much more dynamic! A few more fish from that 44

SEPTEMBER 2014

a nice groper or a hefty pig! Use pieces of crab flesh, the segments. Otherwise you can use a durable bait like a limpet which is as tough as an octopus tentacle.

anglers fishing the ocean rocks don’t pursue leatherjackets; anglers are more acquainted with fishing for this species from the rocky shorelines of the harbour or a public wharf. Take a lighter 6-8kg outfit and use a no. 4 or 6 Mustad red long shank and get into the ‘jackets. You can use lighter gear but you may encounter

DRUMMER The pigs fishing has been good in some areas and great in others. It’s a matter of fishing the correct locations according to the sea conditions. The difficult part is fishing spots correctly and timing areas that should be fished for optimum results. Some spots fish better when the tide is just flooding enough, while others fish better at half tide in and others tend to fish best at the top of the tide. I’m keeping this very basic; it’s actually pretty complex but a general tip is to be on the move! Try Barrenjoey’s northeast face out of a medium southerly swell, North Whale headland on the south face, North Avalon’s south face, Warriewood and Little Bluey which is 750m south of Bluefish Point Manly. As a matter of fact, there are pigs on every headland. There are so many spots to fish! Cunjevoi is a great bait but due to harvesting restrictions and a practical amount per person being 20 pieces it is best to use alternative baits. I like using a large peeled prawn or white sliced bread with the crust taken off. Use half a slice, mould it on the hook and always use bread berley to get the pigs activated on the bread. LUDERICK The luderick are around in reasonable numbers from a few spots. Once again Little Bluey at the main ledge is a good spot, and it seems that the hair weed is working best there. Narrabeen gutters has a good population at the moment. Mona Vale pool at the front has a few luderick but it’s best fished when it’s flat. Mona Vale has plenty of cabbage and hair weed there so there is no need to bring in any bait. Bangalley Head below the climb and left about 40m has luderick in the gutter. BEACHES The fishing at this time of the year can be very quiet on a lot of the beaches, although

some large salmon up to 3.5kg are being caught from Bilgola Beach. Try the northern corner for some bream and the odd whiting. Bungan Beach has some bream and salmon, and Mona Vale and Warriewood have salmon and a couple of good tarwhine starting to turn up also. The tarwhine I saw were caught on peeled prawn baits. They were about 500-750g, which is a good size. Pink nippers also work great on this species. Generally September is a quiet time for tailor. There is a short bite at the very first sliver of dawn light off Dee Why beach up towards the poll. At the northern end, long reef side of Dee Why Beach a few reasonable whiting have been caught near that honeycomb reef. A few salmon are there also. Being keen is the most vital step to being successful on salmon and tailor, as these fish are always on the move. One day you may catch them on a particular section of beach, and on your next outing they may be towards the middle or on the opposite end. It’s also worth noting that if they’re not on during the daylight/dusk period they may be on the chew in the pitch black. If the fish don’t come on at the beach you’re fishing you can either move to another gutter or move to another beach altogether. Curl Curl is a fairly reliable beach for these species, and there’s the odd whiting still there as well. When it comes to whiting, don’t expect too many fish until next month. Generally they are residential fish. The salmon and some evening tailor are at Manly Beach and Queenscliff. Unusually there has been a population of whiting and bream there. More often these species are well and truly gone but it is worth having a throw for these fish. The Port Jackson shark (also known as the box head) can be a problem some nights and will be until the end of this month at least. Collaroy Beach has had a few trevally in the evenings. If the current is not too strong try to berley them up but, as I always say, consistency is way better than quantity. Use half pilchards, pilly fillet, peeled prawns and a thick bread, pilly mush berley. The pipe about 200m north of the southern corner has a few on the high tide period. They like the structure. Until next month happy fishing! For rock and beach guided fishing or tuition in the northern Sydney region, visit www.bellissimocharters. com, email alex@ bellissimocharters.com or call Alex Bellissimo on 0408 283 616.

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Treats for the dedicated SYDNEY HARBOUR

Craig McGill craig@fishabouttours.com.au

Traditionally one of the slowest months, with cold water and strong winds, September does still offer

a few little treats for the dedicated fisho. Blackfish have to keep eating. Being primarily vegetarians, they derive much less energy from their food than meat eaters do. A flathead, for example, can eat one baitfish and sit

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on it for two days in winter because the baitfish is high energy protein. Blackfish don’t get that same benefit from weed and therefore must graze all day. That near-constant feeding increases our chances of catching them. Aussie salmon also don’t seem to mind the cold water. Despite feeding on high energy protein, their feeding sprees can last for hours. This is because they eat tiny baitfish, often so small that they are invisible in the water to the angler. To fill their bellies with these tiny morsels, the salmon have to feed for hours. The downside to this is that it makes the salmon very hard to tempt with even the smallest of lures or flies. Later in the year when the baitfish have grown to a respectable size, this situation reverses. The salmon become easy to tempt with lures but their feeding periods are greatly reduced, as they don’t need to catch many baitfish to sate their hunger. So it seems with salmon that you either have fish that are extremely hard to tempt with a lure but you have hours to try, or fish that will eagerly eat anything you throw at them but only for a very short time. Blackfish are found throughout the system from the heads right through the freshwater reaches. I’ve even seen them in pure freshwater in the head waters of Middle Harbour. Although they are obviously the same species, blackfish often get categorised into ‘river blackfish’ and ‘ocean blackfish’. River blackfish are generally smaller, darker fish found in the upper reaches of the harbour. They usually don’t exceed 0.5kg and therefore require a scaling down in tackle compared to the gear used to catch their much larger ocean brothers. Rods still need to be

A good sized Aussie salmon from the harbour’s lower reaches. long but are of lighter construction. There are a couple of reasons for the long rods used for blackfish, the first reason being that they are required to lift the belly of line that often forms between the rod tip and the float. The other reason is to cushion against the fish’s numerous powerful lunges and avoid pulling the tiny hooks from their small mouths.

completes the rig. River weed, which is the hair-like weed found in the brackish reaches, is the preferred bait for river blackfish. Some of the better spots in the Harbour include Greenwich, Long Nose Point, Lane Cove River, Blues Point, Balls Head, Valentia Street wharf and the wall near Luna Park. In Middle Harbour, the pick of the spots are Roseville,

Fishing for blackfish on the edges of Sow and Pigs Reef. I prefer an eggbeater reel to the traditional centrepin, and I load it up with 2kg or 3kg line. Quill floats are far more efficient than the heavy, long stemmed floats used for the ocean fish. A number 10 Mustad Sneck hook

Killarney Point, Spit Bridge and Beauty Point. The lower harbour has a number of spots that attract some superb quality ocean blackfish. These fish are in the same class as the fish you would expect to find off the ocean rocks.

They are of a good average size at around the 1kg mark and are much lighter in colour with prominent bands running down their body. They are found in much rougher country so accordingly the tackle must be scaled up a bit. Rods are slightly heavier in the butt section and 4-5kg line is more appropriate. Heavier long stemmed floats are used and a no. 8 or 10 hook is more suited to these larger fish. The other main difference between these ocean fish and the river fish is the bait. Cabbage weed commonly found on the ocean rocks grows in abundance on the lower reaches of the harbour and is therefore the obvious bait. You’ll have to gather your cabbage from the ocean platforms though, as taking anything from the intertidal zone of Sydney Harbour is prohibited. A berley consisting of chopped weed and sand is a big advantage for both river and ocean fishing. Good spots on the lower reaches include Sow and Pigs Reef, Clontarf Pool, Bottle and Glass, Clarke Island and Dobroyd head. • If you are interested in doing a guided fishing trip on Sydney harbour with Craig McGill please call 0412 918 127 or email craig@fishabout.com.au.

Left: Lower harbour blackfish are generally bigger and prefer cabbage weed. Right: The blackfish’s vegetarian diet makes it a reliable target even in the coldest months. 46

SEPTEMBER 2014

Lewis to move into fishing boats Lewis Boats’ Steve Parker is a passionate man. He loves his fishing and loves building quality boats in Australia. Owning the

quality Lewis brand here for more than 25 years, he’s built his business on local, high quality workmanship at the best possible price.

These boats are laid out with anglers firmly in mind.

And that’s the mentality that he wants to bring across to fishing boats. Lewis picked up several of the old Southwind moulds when that company went out of business. Hulls like the Stealth were always a popular crossover between a console craft and a lurecasting boat. That boat is now finished immaculately and sold as a Lewis Typhoon, but Steve’s ambitions run deeper than just knocking out a cool lurecasting boat or two between ski boats. “I was at the Sydney Boat Show recently and it was pretty sad to see the decline of quality Aussie manufacturers – mostly at the expense of imported American craft,” he said. “And I worry about consumers who may get sold a boat or trailer more than 2.5m wide, as there doesn’t seem to be a lot of regulation compliance going on for boat importers at the moment.” But instead of just griping about it, Parker is adamant that he’ll be able to manufacture superb quality fishing boats at affordable prices

for everyday Australian anglers. Because he spends a lot of time fishing out of his own Lewis boats, he’s in the ideal position to practice what he preaches. Keep an eye on FM magazine in future months to see exactly what he’s up to. – FMG

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The unluckiest prawn SYDNEY SOUTH

Gary Brown gbrown1@iprimus.com.au

In the Sutherland Shire, September is one of those months that I call a ‘crossover’ month. It can be a month when the weather can’t make up its mind on what it’s doing from day to day, and the water temperature can vary from cold to warm depending on whether you are fish in Botany Bay, the Georges, Cooks or Woronora Rivers and the Port Hacking.

Another way to find out the temperature is to lower a thermometer down or, if you don’t have one, you can try feeling the bait, lures and/or fish to see if they are cold. If they are, you can make a move to find the warmer water. TREVALLY AND TAILOR The locations to fish over the next month will depend on the species of fish you want to catch. Most of the usual places in Botany Bay and the Port Hacking will hold silver trevally and tailor. In Botany Bay, these include spots like Trevally

that they can pounce on their unsuspecting prey. Most of the time when I go chasing squid I use jigs that range from 2.5 to 2.5 in weight. There are a number of techniques that you can use when targeting squid and the couple that I prefer to use are as follows: 1. Cast out the jig and allow it to slowly sink to the required depth. Then lift the rod up vertically a couple of times and allow the squid jig to slowly sink. Repeat this back to the boat or until you have hooked a squid. 2. Cast out the jig, allow it to sink to the required depth and then very slowly wind the jig back to where you are. The slower the better. For more information go to YouTube.com and search for ‘Squid retrieves with Adam Royter’. Place that are worth a shot for squid include the

The groynes from Dolls Point to Brighton are worth a shot for squid, tailor and luderick at the top of the tide. Care does need to be taken when walking along them as there are loose boulders. Perouse, the point around from the sailing club at La Perouse, off Bare Island, over the area called The Patches at Towra Point, off the Groynes at Kurnell and Dolls Point, the Kurnell Peninsula and the end of the Third Runway in Botany Bay.

Gunnamatta baths. From the boat all you need to do is find a some ribbon weed with sand nearby. Places like upper North and South West arms, Lilly Pilly sand flats, Gunnamatta Bay, Jibbon Point, Kitcheners Reef and the channel near the Ballast Heap are likely spots.

You don’t need a heavy outfit to catch squid. The author was using a Pflueger 2-4kg outfit with a 2.5 squid jig. On some days an angler might fish in South-West Arm in 17°C water and find their baits and lures coming back in untouched and cold. At the same time, North-West arm could be around the 20°C mark, with anglers’ offerings getting smashed every cast. This is why, during this changeover cycle in the weather, you need to move around a fair bit to locate those warm pockets of water. Seeing that most of my fishing during this time of the year is in depths from 4-15m, and my Humminbird detects water temps down to about 1m, I need to rely on other things to give an idea of the water temps down towards the bottom. One way is to turn up the sensitivity on the sounder, and this will sometime show the thermocline in the water. This layer of warm water can be located mid water or on the bottom. 48

SEPTEMBER 2014

Alley, Bare Island, The Oil Wharf, the Sticks, Wide off Towra Point and the end of the Third Runway. In the Port Hacking you could try Lilly Pilly and Gunnamatta baths, Kitcheners Reef and the channel near the Ballast Heap. The main couple of things you will need to remember when targeting trevally is to have a small but steady stream of berley, peeled Hawkesbury prawns or pilly tails as bait, and fish as light as the current will allow. SQUID Squid are another option during September. They went through their breeding cycle in July (Sydney), and because they are a quick growing species they will be on the chew. Squid just love to hang around weed beds and areas that have plenty of kelp. This allows them to change their colouring to match the surroundings so

Above: The wharf in Yowie Bay sometimes hold a few squid as it’s fairly deep water and there are always plenty of baitfish hanging around. Left: Gary Newman from the Sea Bees Fishing Club with his biggest bream caught on a very unlucky prawn.

break wall from Trevally Alley to the northern corner, from the small beach at La

In the Port Hacking from the shore you could try Lilly Pilly, Gymea and

LUDERICK Another fish species worth targeting in this changeover month is luderick. I was out recently with Scotty Lyons on one of his Luderick Fishing Classes on the Port Hacking to take a few photos of what the customers caught. For most of them it was their first time targeting luderick. Not only did they learn how to mix up the berley and apply it, rig up their outfits, how to care for the fish to keep to eat and collect the green weed/ cabbage, they also all caught a few fish.

I managed to get out a couple of days later to use up the leftover weed and I managed to get a few luderick of my own. While out on the water I did notice that there were quite a number of garfish and rather large mullet about, which indicates it would be worth berleying up with some white bread and having a go for them during this month. Gary Newman from the Sea Bees Fishing club sent a great story on the big bream he caught while fishing down at Narooma while on holidays. He said he had caught a few prawns in the Dalmeny Creek the night before and they were still just kicking when Gary and his two sons went down to the wharf the next afternoon for a fish. As Gary was carrying all the fishing gear for his two sons his youngest, Mathew, had the duty of carrying the half dead prawns. While carrying the bucket Mathew tripped on one of the boards and a lot of the prawns fell through the gaps in the boards and they sank to the bottom in waist deep water. To Gary’s amazement they stayed in a group on the bottom. Maybe they were shell shocked? Seeing as the prawns weren’t moving much and weren’t affected by the strong currents you find running past the wharf, Gary raced over to the unit where they were staying across the road, grabbed a pair of goggles and swimmers, raced back and jumped in. Low and behold, he was able to scoop up quite a few prawns by hand. It was the second time he had caught those prawns. Unlucky for them but lucky for Gary, as it was on one of these prawns he caught his biggest bream. If you have any fishing reports or stories you’d like to share, send me an email so I can put in up in my reports. I promise that I will not give out the exact location of where you caught them. My email address is gbrown1@ iprimus.com.au.

Tides are the key BOTANY BAY

Gabe Quercigrosse gabeandgabe@bigpond.com

Tides play a more important part in ensuring good catches in Botany Bay than a lot of people may think. Almost all parts of the bay fish differently according to the run. Once the tide has a movement of more than 1m between high and low, the water moves at a fast clip and fish take baits more readily. On the other hand, when there is minimum difference between high and low, fish feed more leisurely. This is when they become more choosey with baits. When rigging for medium or fast water you’ll need to use heavier sinkers, and they have to be the running type such as ball or bean. The heaviest lead should never be more than 28g (1oz). When you’re fishing slow tides the water movement will be vastly reduced, allowing lighter lead to be used. On all occasions you should fish with 1m or so of trace. During slack water it pays to use as little lead as possible, thus allowing your bait to sink and move very slowly. This is particularly important when using nippers or prawns as bait. Fish such as mulloway, flathead, trevally and the like will rise up to a bait so the action of a live nipper or prawn will catch their eye. In a wide expanse of water, the movement of the tides will have a reduced effect on fishing. However, when you’re fishing the entrance to the Georges River, around the bridges and Bare Island, and shallow areas such as Watts Reef, the run is stronger. It pays to remember that the river has more run than the bay itself and even more the further upstream you travel. The tides also affect crabbing, with better results experienced during slow movements. One area that fishes best during the last hour prior to full tide is along the northern side of the airstrip extension. This location can be fished from the shore or by boat. The water is fairly deep and the fish feed on worms or nippers, which are abundant here. Another spot which needs a flood tide is between Towra Point and Bonna on the southern side of the bay. This spot will produce flathead, whiting, bream, leatherjackets, trevally and more, and can be fished day or night.

Tides that reach a peak of over 1.6m dropping off to around zero have a big effect on Georges River and Woolooware Bay. Fish will work up onto the shallows around leases and weed flats during a peak tide, and come off again into deeper water as the tide recedes. Savvy anglers fish the outgoing tide adjacent to the leases and do quite well, especially for bream and flathead. In the river proper the water is very clear, especially during winter, and it is always wise to fish the deeper parts of the system. In most cases the last hour of the outgoing tide and the first hour of the incoming tide will produce

and line should be no heavier than 2kg if you want results. Stick to the bottom of the tide, especially if it coincides with dawn or dusk. At the time of writing, the luderick have gone a little quiet with only a few taken from Bonnet Bay, Blackbutt and the Moons, but they’re of a good size – anywhere between 35-40cm. Weed is still at a premium and you’ll have to go down to lake Illawarra if you need a healthy supply (this is to be expected in September). Bream will tend to congregate in the deeper water adjacent to oyster leases, waiting for the tide to ruse so they can move

The author caught these two thumper whiting at the Macarthur District Social Fishing club annual whiting social fish. excellent results. Fishing in the bay has been very ordinary, with only the dedicated anglers trying the area, but the brave ones have been rewarded with good size trevally up to 50cm around Molineaux Point. The best method has been to anchor up and berley with bread and pilchard pieces, then fish lightly weighted rigs in the berley trail. Flathead have been taken in reasonable numbers on the Kurnel Oil Wharf to Inscription Point drift, with double headers not uncommon. Shallow paternoster rigs armed with whole prawns and whitebait cocktail baits have proven to be a deadly combination during the last few hours of the run-out tide. Bream have been replaced by whiting in the Georges River upstream of Tom Uglys bridge, with outstanding specimens to 45cm recorded. You’ll need the magic bloodworms,

up into the racks. Bridge pylons will be a favourite haunt, with live nippers

Macarthur District Social Fishing club member Jason caught this PB whiting on worms at Oatley recently. the prime bait. Whiting will be found over mussel beds with the bigger fish taken at night. The best spots are the Lugarno area, Woronora River, Caravan Head and Baldface Point down to Towra Point, with drifting often rewarding. If you’re chasing tailor the Port Botany container area over to the hot water outlet just south of the oil refinery wharf at Kurnell is the place to be. Pencil garfish are the best bait. Trevally will be around until the end of the month, along with the elusive mulloway. Bonus fish such as snapper, kingfish and leatherjackets will be found around structures and reefs near the heads. All in all, September will be a trying time for the bay and its immediate tributaries. Next issue I’ll discuss how to catch bream in the bay. For all your fishing needs, as well as the latest info on what’s biting, drop into Gabe’s Boating and

Fishing at Narellan (4/1A Somerset Ave), or Silvania (268/264-276 Princes Hwy). You can also call

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Baitfish kick-start the season ILLAWARRA

Greg Clarke clarkey1@westnet.com.au

The first of the light northeasters will start to puff this month as the air temperature rises, and the water will run back downhill from time to time, bringing with it all the good things of summer. Let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves though. It’s just September and although it’s a little warmer the westerlies can still howl through, and for the most part the water is still cold. The good part is the tiny baitfish will start to arrive over the coming weeks. Their arrival really kick-starts the season as all the predators – be they pelagic, bottom dwellers or scavengers – get in the mood to feed. My favourites are the massive schools of salmon, rat kings, bonito and trevally that ripple the

surface, vacuuming every tiny baitfish in their path. Hovering above them are hordes of seagulls, and mixing it with the fish are the mutton birds. Tiny lures, light lines, thin rods and fast reels are the weapons of choice to get maximum distance before retrieving the mini morsel back through the mess to get crunched. Small kings are a pest as they fight hard and long just to be put back as undersized, but a few better ones are in the mix. You earn every one of them on light line. Some days though they are so focused on their prey that they won’t even look at anything you have in the tackle box. Not all the schools are kings and sambos, the ones moving fast with the terns on them will be striped tuna, and if you can keep up as they blast along the coast and manage to get a cast in front and get a

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lure past their nose before they change direction and actually get a hookup then you are in for some of the best light line fun available anywhere. Then some of the schools will be large slimy mackerel and these will be marked by flocks of mutton birds diving and moving with the school but there will be little surface fish action. While slimies are good bait it is the snapper that move with these schools that will be the target. Big plastics fished deep will get any that are about, don’t know why they move with the big slimies but they do, then again a descent snapper is a top predator that will smash a random slimy without a problem. Following all this action will be some larger kings. A smaller live slimy or yellowtail cast into these feeding masses on heavier tackle will often bring undone some good kings. You will find these schools all along the coast but some better spots include up past Stanwell Park towards Burning Palms around Bellambi, the Islands and Port break walls of course, Bass Point and Bombo. On the subject of better kings they will start to gain momentum this month on the deeper reefs and around the islands. Bandit and Wollongong are worth a look, while the trap reef off Port is worth a sound over and a big knife jig put down to any schools marked on the sounder. There are still a few nice snapper and quite a lot of smaller fish left over after the winter cuttlefish run. In around the shallow reefs and bommies with an early morning or late arvo pick and berley session is the best way to get a few. You could also try drifting some big plastics over the deeper reefs for a bigger

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fish or two. Trevally will be more numerous in the berley so if you don’t get any snapper a few blurters isn’t all that bad. With all the bait about the flatties will start to wake up over the next few weeks and catches will get better. For the moment, however, they are still a bit quiet. Over the reefs there are a few morwong and good numbers of smaller snapper for the drifters. Throw in some piggies and samsonfish and things aren’t looking too bad. One predator not mentioned is the dreaded barracouta. They arrived early this year and have made a nuisance of themselves over the reefs all along the coast. They don’t mind cut baits and love knife jigs, and with a set of teeth that slice and cut they make short work of lines and lures. They were once very popular down south and they don’t taste all that bad so there are some redeeming factors. Further offshore out

Mick Welsh with another nice early morning red from a close in northern reef. some solid salmon on all the deeper ledges too, so grab a few pilchards and ganged hooks and cast a bit further beyond the washes and work them back slowly. The LBG season starts about now with a few solid kings lurking along the

generally be worth a look. A few school jewies are on the prowl but you will have to work for them. There are plenty in the rivers up around Sydney but they just don’t seem to find their way down here in great numbers for any period of time. THE LAKE In the lake the bream are in the feeder streams and there will be a few Left: When these guys are around you can lose some gear, not to mention lacerated fingers. Pickhandles or barracouta, call them what you like, but they are trouble. Above: With all the bait around you might even score an early mac tuna among the schools of pelagics.

around the shelf there are some quality albacore and a few yellowfin grabbing small lures around the Stanwell and Kiama canyons and beyond. However, most of the bigger boats are worn out after the excellent run of southern bluefin this winter, with heaps of fish to 150kg+ coming in, albeit from a long way out. So the yellowfin and albies might get a rest? I think not. If it does get a bit slow there are always plenty of gemfish, with some blue-eye and the odd hapuka and bass groper to entertain the crowd. With electric reels so popular these days it is hardly fishing at all. ROCK AND BEACH Back on the rocks it’s drummer time. Get some cunje or royal reds and work the washes with little or no lead and they will come. Throw in some bream and trevally and there is plenty of entertainment. There are

deeper ledges down south and even a few striped tuna or even a few mac tuna might come within casting range down Kiama way if you’re lucky. They are twice as fast from the rocks. On the beaches it is salmon, salmon and more salmon. Throw in a few tailor just on dark and some bream picking up the scraps and you will be kept busy. The fish seem to be all along the coast. Any beach with a good deep gutter and a bit of wash around will

flatties starting to show late in the month as the shallows start to warm up, but they will be slow. To score the bream get out on the dark and try to kick up a few early prawns. There won’t be a lot but just about every one of them will score a fish on most days. Use the prawns live and unweighted on light line (around 2kg) and cast them into the snags in the streams and hang on. You will probably get dusted up a few times too. Good luck!

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Last month I wrote about the lack of bluefin tuna showing up. Now all I can say is that they disappeared as suddenly as they arrived. Those lucky few anglers who did manage to wrestle with these monster fish are amongst an exclusive club this year. That’s not to say it’s done and dusted though. Be ready to chuck a sickie at a moment’s notice and keep your finger on the pulse and your ear to the ground for the faintest talk about when and where they start to chew again. One of the greatest emerging sources for fishing related news is Facebook, so make sure you have some connections through the fishing community to keep abreast of what’s going on. In closer there have still been good numbers of snapper showing up but the howling westerly winds and big seas have been a great hindrance to any keen fisho. You really have to pick

Guy was very happy with this quality snapper. your days or try to snare a mid-week arvo off work, as that has been when the best weather has occurred. Float baiting seems to be the way to go at the moment with two locals snaring their PBs at 78cm and 81.5cm in the same session. There are still some kingfish being boated around the cliffs at the Sideboards and Drum and Drumsticks. Livies are the go at this time of year, and you can pick some up on the way out just off Murrays boat ramp.

being the go-to methods. Keep an eye on your sounder for schooling fish and use either a slow lift or a double hop to get the bite. If you’re not too confident on fishing deep you can still target the edges. You might not get the numbers that you would deeper, but you should find quality with reports of 1kg+ bream being caught in these areas. BASS In the river it’s the start of the greatest time of the year… the opening of the NSW bass season!

Madeye Paddle Prawns. Alternatively you can use deep diving hardbodies like the Jackall Chubby or Cranka Cranks. The Shoalhaven area has some great freshwater impoundments in the way of Danjera (Yalwal) and Tallowa (Kangaroo Valley) dams that are both stocked with Australian bass. These dams have been known to produce trophy fish but they do not allow combustion engines, with Danjera being paddle (kayak/canoe) or electric propelled boat

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Whilst on the topic of livies there have been great numbers of squid showing in this location. Drifting a jig out the back whilst casting one forward is the best way to get a few squid quickly. BREAM All reports from the Basin are saying that there have been a great number of bream out deep between Basin View and the islands, with blades and plastics

The beginning of the season is always a little tough, with rainfall being a huge influence on the location and the feeding pattern of the fish. The easiest way is to start at the Grotto and work your way up the alternating cliff faces of the river. At this time of year surface fishing will be very quiet, so focus your efforts on hopping plastics down the rock faces. I’ve had good success with the

friendly and Tallowa being paddle only. At this time of the year the fish should still be down deep. A very popular method in the tournament scene for targeting these guys when they are down low is by using ice jigs worked vertically through the schooled-up fish that can be seen on your sounder. That’s it for another month, good times and tight lines!

Bluefin fever takes over the Bay BATEMANS BAY

Anthony Stokman

As in previous years the build was slow and steady, but inevitability going to kick in. Bluefin were greeted by commercial boats out very wide as they moved up the south coast. It was only going to be a matter of weeks before they would come within reach of the recreational boats. Still they are quite far out and most boats are looking for a window in the weather. It all went down from the beginning of July and I expect to see them taper off by now. Bluefin were being caught from Eden to Sydney. It was a cracker of a month. Fish were well spread and on certain days would fire up at certain places. Bermagui took the cake this year, being the most consistent location. Lots of good 40-80kg fish were caught, with some 110-150kg mules getting around as well. May and June saw some good days on yellowfin and albacore and there were a couple of good yellowfin caught during the run of the bluefin. However, it was bluefin fever running through most anglers’ veins. There’s no real secret on catching these fish these days; we have a lot of information at our fingertips now. It was just a matter of getting out there, being wide enough to find the temp breaks and that warmer, slack water. Water temps of

around 18-19°C are ideal. And all you then need to do is drive around with a mixed spread of skirts and divers and watch your sounder. Bluefin on many occasions will pack attack your spread and it’s all hands on deck. It’s the kind of mayhem fishermen dream about. It pays to keep a look out on your sounder in productive looking waters. You might spot the fish down 100m or so. You then might want to stop to cube or drop a jig down and see if they can be raised. And if all that fails, keep one ear on the radio. Boats are more than happy to share the information these days, and the more boats in the area the more berley in the water and fish can be up for the day if it’s a cracking bite. Probably the most asked question in the shop in regards to bluefin would be what leader thickness to use. The bluefin are ranging from 40-180kg during the South Coast migration, so to avoid tears from losing the fish of a lifetime and to stay in the game, 200lb would be the happy medium for trolled lures. Once you’re pulled up and cubing you can still use 200lb and get a bite, but if you notice only smaller fish or no fish will take your hook you should obviously go down in leader. Most of my customers have been purchasing 80lb fluorocarbon. Big, shy fish would fall for this, and good quality fluorocarbon is hard

Baz and Clutch’s yellowfin caught on a trip with Topcat Charters.

enough to withstand the abrasion from the mouth of the fish for the period of the fight. Keep this in mind for next year because by the time you read this the bite should be over. Still, just because the bluefin are off the target list doesn’t mean you should give up on tuna altogether. The spring run of albacore and school yellowfin is on our doorstep. You can afford to go even lighter on the gear if you want some fun. You can still come across 20-30kg yellowfin at this time of year. INSHORE Further inshore and in the shallows snapper are still on, and I’m finding every year more and more anglers getting in on the plastics. Another big trend at the moment is 17g, 19g, 20g or 30g vibes or soft vibes from 7-10cm long which many anglers are having a lot of success with. Sometimes a change is as good as a holiday, and once you catch your first fish on something different your confidence builds from then on. These days your fishing doesn’t have to be the same old technique or approach; there’s a lot out there available now to keep things interesting. I’ve just ordered in the TT Jig Spinners in three different sizes that you can attach to your jighead for added flash and vibration. I will try this on snapper and get back to you on the results. After many months now of snapper being inshore I do expect to see some good snapper being caught in the 50-80m depth now. In past years I’ve landed some cracking snapper in 70m of water through the spring months. ROCK AND BEACH Off the rocks the drummer have been as solid as previous winters and are a good, stable fish to target. Blackfish move around the rocks in big schools at this time of year, and snapper (normally a more elusive fish from the rocks) have been targeted with great success for months now. It seems like everybody who has given snapper a crack from the stones or bays has had some success, and catching them on a 7” jerkshad plastic is a good lure option. The good thing about catching snapper from the rocks with lures is that you can use a 7ft rod because most of the fight is done out in the water. By the time the fish reaches close quarters it is tired and can be easily handled and released. Squid are also still very much on the menu as well, so when your rock fishing make sure you haven’t left your squid jigs at home. On the beaches tailor continue to be the species to target. Salmon are there, but tailor have been big and plentiful. Amongst the tailor

have been some good bream as well. Customers have been coming in saying they have been getting bream up to 46cm. That’s massive for a yellowfin bream. ESTUARY In the estuary? What’s that? Bluefin running, snapper inshore, drummer off the rocks, massive tailor and bream on the beaches... it’s small wonder the estuary fishing is taking a back seat. Estuary fishers are definitely in struggle town in comparison to everyone else. Still, if you’re determined to fish the estuaries this month there are some reasonable options available. I recommend baiting big for slow lethargic flathead. They will make an effort for a bigger bait. Small mulloway will be up the back and bigger ones out the front with the odd capture around the bridge. By the time you read this things will be changing and the estuary perch will be moving back upstream and be hungry and on the chew. The toughest time for fishing the estuary is behind us now and we can start to shake off our winter layers and welcome spring. For more up-to-the-minute information on what’s biting where, drop into Compleat

Pete and Baz with a pair of bluefin Barrels aboard Topcat Charters. Angler Batemans Bay and have a chat to Anthony or one of the other friendly

staff. They’re located at 65A Orient St, Batemans Bay (02 4472 2559).

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Tackle up for bluefin tuna NAROOMA

Stuart Hindson stuart@ausfishing.com.au

Tuna, tuna and more tuna, that’s the word around this neck of the woods with game fishos licking their chops with some of the best SBT action seen for years. It’s been a fantastic month for these speedsters with the average fish around 45-50kg. These are small compared to some of the stories of monster barrels being lost after many hours hooked up. I know of at least 8 monster SBT lost after pulling hooks, which will happen when trolling lures. One boat had a five way hook-up of fish over 70kg

with only two landed, both over 80kg. There’s been even bigger barrels landed over the last week with the best I’ve heard of going 119kg – that’s a big fish! With the way the water is looking (temperature 19-20ºC) and the eddie that’s formed off Narooma this action may continue for a few weeks yet. Everything will depend on Mother Nature, but let’s hope this pocket of water stays on our door step for a little longer. The SBT are wide of the shelf. Every day is a little different to their whereabouts but generally speaking the inside edge of the eddie is around 40 miles out. The fish have responded well to trolling, especially the bigger barrels. Those

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who have got the fish to the boat after hooking up and keeping them there with pilchards have been getting a lot of the school fish. Once you have them at your transom then jigs, cubes and big stickbaits will all catch them. When they’re like that, they’re not too fussy and are all revved up. But if a monster barrel is for you, then trolling skirted pushers or big bibbed minnows is the go. There’s been the odd yellowfin mixed in with the blues; 60kg is the best I’ve heard. There was a report of a very big striped marlin hooked too, plus a few shortbilled spearfish landed. I know that sounds mad for late winter but it’s true! At Montague Island the kings have been pretty good right through winter and I expect that to continue this month. The last 3 months have been excellent for the kings with fish to 8kg on the cards. Anglers using live bait and jigs will catch plenty, while trolling smaller Xmas Tree lures is also worth a go. The Fowlhouse Reef and the Pinnicles down south of the island is where most of the action is happening.

For those after a bottom feed then snapper is still your best option. The reds are quite wide spread along the inshore reefs, it may take a little time to find them but once you do it’s all systems go. Drifting has been productive when conditions allow as you get to cover more ground. It’s a good idea that when you locate fish, make a GPS mark and anchor upstream about 50m from where your mark. If you berley hard and use cubes you will get the snapper off the bottom and into your trail. It’s not for everyone as some work is involved but more times than not you will improve your catch rates. In the estuaries it’s been a little slow but that’s to be expected coming out of winter. Wagonga Inlet has been good for the colder pelagic species like salmon, tailor and trevally. The key is to find the white bait schools that are littered throughout the system, once you find them then the action will happen. Try casting small stick-style softies around the edges for best results. This month will see mulloway enter the system again, every September it’s

Ben Bolton from Playstation and a client with three jumbo barrel SBT of 80kg+. It’s been an epic season so far for these enigmatic species. the same and I expect to see some solid specimens coming from the Wagonga depths in coming weeks. Up at Tuross, the system needs a flush as it’s very clear at present. Anglers are struggling a bit in the crystal clear water, especially those after bream and EPs, but those that are fishing the silly string (3lb) are still

getting results although working hard. There’s a few flatties coming from 4-ways downstream towards the boat shed. I’ve heard of a few 70cm fish coming from this section so it may be worth a look. A few locals are still getting the odd mulloway to 90cm from the lower section To page 55

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Go upstream for spring BERMAGUI

Darren Redman djsxstreamfishing@bigpond.com

Things are starting to warm up on land but not so much offshore. That’s OK though, because the warmth is seeping into the upper reaches of the estuaries, brackish, freshwater and impoundments. This is an exciting time of year for fishing and you don’t need a luxurious game boat or a million dollars, just a handful of lures and a packet of bait. Starting in the upper sections of the estuaries, fish will migrate back into the systems and head upstream to the warmer water and better feeding areas. In those lakes that are closed to the ocean and not allowing fresh stocks of fish to enter, finned residents of these waters will congregate in the warm shallower margins of the upper stream and flats. Look for fish in areas you would not normally expect to find reasonable numbers. Areas like Narira Creeks, up the back of Wallaga Lake, are prime spots. Bream especially will be seen with their tails protruding out of the water as they nose in the gravel for crabs, worms and such, usually in the middle of the creeks. This is a great time to target these fish with lures and with a good set of Polaroids, as it will provide some of the best visual fishing on the South Coast. Small hard bodied lures are my pick although plastics can also be effective and of course bait fishing will be extremely productive. Other species regularly encountered From page 54

mainly on soft plastics and big vibes, I reckon this season may be a corker for the mulloways in this system. The coming weeks and months will see this waterway fire up again and I can’t wait for it.

are luderick, flathead, mullet and bass returning from spawning. In the estuaries that are open to the ocean the upper tidal flats that are exposed at low tide and then covered with enough water at high tide will provide some excellent

with very little drag and allow the fish to have its head when hooked. Bream are especially sought after using this method, and some of the first runs can be sizzling. Not all the fish in the estuaries will be encountered on the flats.

Upstream in spring can produce excellent duskies in the shallows.

Top: Bream are a popular target in the upper reaches. Bottom: Whiting are another species that like warm, shallow water. bait fishing. These flats will often pay host to large nipper and worm beds with weedy areas surrounding them, providing cover. Well placed baits will take a wide variety of grazing fish as they work the flats over. Use ultra light line

Drop-offs, weed beds and rocky outcrops will produce their fair share, as tides fall carrying the rich nutrients and warmer water coming off the flats and out of the mangrove swamps. Bait fishing is extremely good and lure

The ocean beaches and rocks have been good without being red hot. It really depends on what you want to target but the salmon fishing was good until a few weeks ago. They have copped a flogging of late from the netters south of

Narooma, not too sure why they would want to target them as they bring bugger all money but they still flog them. In the wash up, it’s made these fine beach sports fish harder to find but the better beaches to try are Brou, Tilba and Coila to the north of Tuross. Casting shiners will catch fish, once you locate a patch you will have some fun. Using a paternoster rig will work too, a bait/ popper combination is the best presentation. September will see yellowfin bream around the estuary entrances as they head back inside after spawning. This bread and butter species will only get better as the month rolls on with live beach worms and pipi the gun baits. You should get a few bigger sand whiting mixed in with the bream as well.

Linda with the type of black bream that we all want to catch regulary. This beast was part of a dozen caught with her 5 fish bag going 6.30kg.

fishing will also produce the goods, particularly on large dusky flathead. FRESHWATER Moving further inland to the brackish and freshwater, now is the time to intercept bass as they return to the fresh after spawning. Hopefully the spring rains and warmer water will allow the bass to migrate inland to their summer feeding grounds, and with this most of the eastern flowing streams will host fish. Estuary perch may also be a regular catch while targeting bass, especially in the brackish margins. Lure fishing is extremely good. Searching the deeper holes with lures like spinnerbaits, soft plastics and deep diving hardbodies can produce surprisingly large fish for this time of year. You should also keep an eye out this month for those balmy days that will produce early insect hatches. This is the time to attack bass with a

variety of surface lures. Bass in Brogo Dam are also on the move. Evenings after a warm spring day will often be the best, with both surface and sub-surface lures working. Bait will be more productive than other methods, however I still find this time of year to be a little early for the dam. OFFSHORE Offshore is actually at its worst at this time of year, with water temps at their lowest – or near enough. Gamefishing will probably be poor to non-existent. With water temps around

14-15°C, you’re only likely to encounter sharks and the odd bluefin tuna. Reef or bottom fishing can be good though, with anglers targeting the 50-70m depth range as large tiger flathead return to the area. These fish are regular catches in the spring months along with morwong, snapper and other assorted reef species. If you strike some good, calm seas you can fish the deep water off the Twelve Mile Reef for even larger tiger flathead and maybe some Tassie trumpeter.

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SEPTEMBER 2014

Reef’n them up TATHRA

Darren Redman djsxstreamfishing@bigpond.com

Spring is a great time for offshore bottom fishing, with flathead from the gravel and a mix of species from the reefs all on offer. Leaving Kianinny boat ramp, the first dilemma you’re faced with is whether to go north or south! Both directions have good reef fishing, so it pretty much comes down to what direction the wind is going to come from so boaties can get a smooth ride home. Another alternative is to try some of the grounds straight out in front. Travelling some distance north to the last point you can see will put you off Goalen Head and some of the best reef fishing along the coast. Slightly south of Goalen Head at Aragunnu is a scattered bottom of gravel and mud which will continue down the coast out from Wapengo. Closer to home out from Nelsons Headland is some great reef structure that produces regularly. South of the ramp out from Bournda in around 50m of water there’s a sandy, gravely bottom which is a good area to drift. North of there back towards the ramp, White Rock area has some lovely reef structure which produces excellent bags regularly. Often overlooked is straight out from the ramp where there is a mixture of reef, gravel, sand and mud which holds a variety of fish species.

amounts of snapper, ocean perch, nannygai, wrasse and plenty more varieties. Moving over the sand and gravel, flathead will be on the short list, both sandies and tigers. Gummy sharks are most sought-after here, and they’ll be found among the flatties, with some of the best red gurnard along the coast mixed in. Around the wharf, trevally are dominating catches. This action should continue right through to the school holidays, keeping the kids entertained. Ever-present schools of yellowtail provide plenty of fun, with salmon passing on a regular basis to add a larger variety to target. Tailor are present of a night with barracouta also lurking around the pylons. Squid will be encountered here too, with night time producing best. Moving around onto the rocks between the wharf through to Kianinny Bay, anglers are getting good bags of drummer on cabbage weed and red crabs. Free floating baits and fishing with a small ball sinker are producing best, and weed suspended under a float is taking its share. Schools of salmon are moving along the coast, providing anglers with some good beach fishing. Some of the best beaches are south at Bournda, the main beach adjacent to the river and Gillards Beach north of Nelsons. Simple paternoster rigs fished on beach rods with pillies or cut baits will account for any number of salmon but if you want excitement and

Bream are a prime target in the Bega River system. On the reefs at present you can expect to encounter schools of morwong, both blue and jackass, with reasonable 56

SEPTEMBER 2014

exercise try walking the beach with a light spin rod, a handful of lures casting in the deeper gutters. It’s lots of fun.

Left: There is plenty for all on the reefs in September. Right: Bass fishing is just starting for the season and it should be a good one. Now is a time to look up! Upstream that is, in the estuaries as the water and land start to warm. Further up these systems like the Bega River you are likely to

encounter schools of bream lurking in the shallows warming in the midday sun. Lures or bait will work, and don’t be surprised if you encounter other species like

flathead, tailor, whiting or estuary perch. Travel further up to the sweetwater and you’re in with an excellent chance of finding bass that are still

concentrated in the area after spawning. Choose your days carefully, looking for the warmer ones, and if you find some insect activity on dusk it could be happy days.

Fishing eases up around Eden EDEN

Kevin Gleed captainkev@wildernessfishingtours.com

Winter is here and the next few months are the quietest time to visit the far south coast. Weather wise, the past month has seen some cold fronts push through resulting in some muchneeded rain. The local rivers have all cleared up now and all the creeks are flowing; this is just what is needed as we head towards spring. The beach fishing has been good with plenty of salmon. Some good fish have been caught down at Wonboyn, averaging around 2kg, and along with some bigger fish (around 3kg) amongst them. Anglers fishing with both lures and bait have been getting amongst the fish frequenting the good gutters up and down the beaches. There are still a few yellowfin bream been caught along the beaches and their numbers will increase in the months ahead. Heading out wide, there has been a patch of warm water a long way out but those getting there have been catching mahi mahi. A

few yellowfin tuna have been caught but as yet not much to report on the southern bluefin tuna. The fishing on the inshore reefs has been good. With cuttlefish backbones washing up on the beaches, you know it’s time to fish for snapper. This time of year the fish can be caught in close around the headlands with fresh baits and soft plastics also catching fish. The flathead, sandies and tigers, are still being caught, you just need to keep on the move until fish are found. This time of year they can be on the bite one day and quiet the next. The fishing in the local rivers has been good and the winter months sees some big blackfish enter the systems with good fish caught on greenweed fished under a float. Silver trevally and tailor captures, should continue but the bigger models are generally caught throughout winter. Winter slowed down the flathead, but with the days getting longer and the water warming it won’t be long before they fire up again. Further upstream black bream are been caught with the coming months seeing them spawn then once again spread out through the system.

Top: Winter bream can be hard to find but once found there can be some great fishing. Bottom: Silver trevally are in good numbers in all the local estuaries.

Bluefin bring bounty MERIMBULA

Stuart Hindson stuart@ausfishing.com.au

Merimbula’s game fishing fraternity are in a buzz of excitement as bluefin fever kicks well and truly in. The last two weeks have been epic for this small port as local and visiting anglers get amongst the SBT on offer. It’s great to see 30-40 trailer boats in Merimbula’s so called ‘quiet time’ heading offshore to have some fun.

experienced crew then there should be no problems. The SBT have responded well to trolled pushers, especially the bigger fish upwards of 70kg. When trolling you get to cover that much extra ground to locate the fish, when you do, you can revert to a cube/berley trail and get them at the back of the boat. It’s exciting when this happens and you will find it’s possible to catch them on poppers and jigs on spin tackle. You tend to find though that the school fish between 40-60kg

SBTs are yellowfin tuna to 60kg, they are certainly not as thick as the SBT but they are there. Most of the yellowfin being caught are by the trollers. If tuna isn’t your thing and sharks are, then you’re in for a treat. There’s been some cracking mako sharks around following the tuna schools and I’ve heard of a few 200kg+ fish being hooked but lost due to biteoffs. In saying that, makos to 120kg have been caught regularly mostly by anglers cubing but they are partial to a trolled pusher as well.

The author’s daughters Sophie (9) and Jessica (12) had a great time catching salmon one morning at Pambula Lake. The girls caught plenty and let them all go, great family fun and times to remember.

Tom and John Williams with a decent brace of bream caught on softies. The boys managed 33 for the day and all released. The blues have been wide with some days 60-80km of travel is needed to get to the fishing grounds. That’s a long way, but if the conditions are right and you have an

are the culprits you will catch. The larger fish are generally a little deeper and will be harder to attempt at times, but it’s still adrenalin running stuff. Mixed in with the

Closer to shore, the snapper are still going great guns and I can’t see it slowing down any time soon. It’s so good to see these fine table fish as a year-round proposition,

especially for the locals, big travel distances are not needed and you get a great feed for the family. Most reefs are holding snapper but this month they will head into deeper water now the cuttlefish run has finished. Better baits to try include squid, cuttlefish and pilchards with the soft plastic brigade getting their fair share as well. I’d look at Horseshoe Reef to the south and White Cliffs to the north for your best chance. Those after sand flatties won’t have too many problems. Try straight off Tura Head in 40m of water, you should be right there at present. In the estuaries, it will only get better as the month rolls on, we have had very cold water in close thus making some estuary

dwellers a little sluggish. Flathead will come out of hibernation as the water warms, with both Pambula and Merimbula lakes worth a look. Try fishing smaller soft plastic prawn imitations around the ribbon weed edges in 3-4m of water. The jelly prawn has grown a bit since it entered the systems in June/July so it makes sense to fish something like it. You’re in with a good chance at bream, trevally and even blackfish with these presentations but remember to fish them slow. What is chewing big time are the pelagic species, like salmon, tailor and trevally. These cold water species have been excellent all winter and still will be chewing big time this month. The channels in both systems

are good places to start with the flooding tide and your best chance at a cracking session. Those fishing the beaches and rocks are going okay on the pelagics, with salmon and tailor in good numbers. It’s not red-hot fishing but still fun, especially when fishing lighter outfits with gelspun line. Anglers casting smaller metal shiners are probably out fishing the bait guys, mainly due to the smaller numbers of fish around. You get to cover a lot more ground, especially when fishing the beaches. Tura and North Tura still remain the pick of beaches to target salmon, but this month will see and increase in bream and whiting numbers as they get ready to enter the estuaries once again.

All happening inshore MALLACOOTA

Kevin Gleed captainkev@wildernessfishingtours.com

This is a great time to be in Mallacoota! You get to see the town without all the crowds unlike during the warmer months. The offshore fishing at this time of year is not worth worrying about. The cold water means very few locals will head offshore, but once the water warms the fishing fires up, and so do the locals. The work on the breakwall is still going on with the completion date sometime around October. At the moment, the only way to head out to sea is via the lake, so you need to pick your day.

Along the beaches, the salmon are about and they have made a few jaunts into the lake. However, with the recent rains the lake has just cleared up so the coming weeks will see the salmon push their way into the lake and get stuck into the whitebait schools. As mentioned earlier, it’s the winter lake fishing that really fires up. On my last 3 two-day charters the anglers have caught over 100 fish for the couple of days – that’s enough to make it worth fishing! Good numbers of decent size silver trevally are moving around the lake, and they can turn up anywhere. The key is to find big schools of baitfish and it won’t be long before the fish turn up the big models, around the 50cm mark.

Tailor are also hooking into the baitfish schools. Most are only choppers but there are a few fish being caught around the 1kg mark. A few yellowfin bream are being caught, but on the whole there has been a lot better fishing for this species in the past years. The fish that are about are a good size but the numbers are just not there. Black bream are about and they are challenging to catch. First you need to find them, which is not always easy, then work out what lure they will take. The one thing that is noticeable is their size; on average they are a hell of a lot smaller compared to the size caught not too many years back. We need to start cherishing these 800g

September can still be cold but the fishing makes it worthwhile. fish as they are becoming the big ones. Flathead are still

being caught with fish in the bottom lake and up towards Gypsy Point. This

time of year, the flathead tend to bite well for a few days then they go quiet. SEPTEMBER 2014

Fishing Fill-its

No holiday for illegal fishers Fisheries officers in north western NSW have again detected multiple offences of noncompliance whilst fishing during the winter school holidays, resulting in the issuing of penalty notices totalling over $11,000. DPI Acting Director Fisheries Compliance, Tony Andrews, said many people took the opportunity to take a holiday in the region, but failed to follow the rules when out fishing. “A number of people were apprehended for illegal fishing activity in the north west of the State, including along the Macintyre, Barwon, Gwydir and Namoi Rivers,” Mr Andrews said. “Recreational fishers need to remember that use of illegal fishing gear such as set lines, cast nets and drag nets is not permitted in NSW inland waterways. “Several men were apprehended on the Barwon River near Collarenebri for illegally using and possessing a total of 77 set lines, which were used to catch golden perch. The men were issued with penalty notices

totalling $5900. “In a separate incident, a Queensland man was found in possession of a cast net and a 15m long drag net, both of which are illegal to use and possess in NSW. The man was issued penalty notices totalling $1000.” Mr Andrews said a number of other people were apprehended for the illegal possession and use of prohibited fishing gear, known to pose a significant threat to native fish populations and other protected fauna. A maximum of two attended fishing lines are permitted in inland waters, which must be within 50m of each other and in line of sight of the person using them. The maximum penalty associated with the use and possession of illegal fishing gear such as drag nets and cast nets is $22,000 and/ or imprisonment for six months. The maximum penalty for the use of set lines range from $5500 to $11,000. “Fisheries officers patrol inland waterways regularly, and a simple fishing trip may turn into an expensive one if

recreational fishers choose not to follow the rules,” Mr Andrews said. Fishers can purchase a NSW recreational fishing licence fee, and download a copy of the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide at www. fisheries.nsw.gov.au. Summary of illegal fishing activity: • Seven men from northern NSW and southern QLD were apprehended on the Barwon River near Collarenebri, and were found using and in possession of a total of 77 set lines and 29 golden perch. The majority of the fish were taken illegally using the set lines, nine of which were below the minimum size of 30cm. Men at the site were issued penalty notices totalling $5900. • A man from Goondiwindi, QLD, camping on the Macintyre River in NSW was apprehended and found to be in possession of one cast net and a 15m long drag net – both illegal to use and possess in NSW. The man was also in illegal possession of 13 rigged fishing lines. The illegal fishing gear was seized and

the man was issued penalty notices totalling $1000. • Two men and two juveniles from Gilgandra were apprehended using 23 set lines in the Barwon River. The illegal lines were seized in addition to one illegally taken golden perch and an additional 12 rigged set lines that were in the camp. The owner of the set lines was issued with penalty notices totalling $1000. • Fisheries officers apprehended a man and a woman from Moree who were caught using 15 drift lines, also referred to locally as ‘floaties’, in the Gwydir River near Tyreel Weir. The drift lines were set over an estimated 1km section of the river. Officers seized the drift lines and a 28lb Murray cod that had been taken on the drift lines. The man was issued with penalty notices totalling $1200 and the woman was issued with penalty notices totalling $200. • Two men from Pittsworth, QLD were camping on the Macintyre River in NSW. Both men had failed to pay the NSW recreational fishing fee, and were found

Fisheries officers seized illegal fishing gear including set lines, cast nets and drag nets. to be illegally using 20 set lines. The men were also in possession of two Murray cod that had been illegally taken using the set lines. The set lines and fish were seized and both men were issued penalty notices $800. • Fisheries officers apprehended a man from Baradine and a man from Coonabarabran for using 20 set lines in a lagoon off the Namoi River near Piliga. The men had their set lines spread over an estimated 1km section of the lagoon. The illegal lines were seized and each of the

men were issued penalty notices totalling $600. • Two Tamworth men were found fishing in the total fishing closure that exists at Lake Keepit. Fisheries Officers seized the men’s fishing gear which included fishing rods, reels and hand lines and the men were each issued with penalty notices totalling $700. Anyone with any information about suspected illegal fishing should contact the Fishers Watch hotline on 1800 043 536 which is a 24/7 automated service or online. – DPI

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More snow welcome CANBERRA

Bryan Pratt

After a slow start this winter snow falls have picked up significantly and there is now a cover of several metres over much of the Snowy Mountains. There also have been heavy falls in the Brindabella Mountains, closer to Canberra. What all this means, apart from fun for skiers, is a reservoir of water to be later released to the regional trout streams and eventually to the lowland native fish waters. Much of the water will be

Now, a few have been caught on bait and lure. Some appeared to be two to three years of age, but others were hatchery releases less than one year old (the age can be determined on the basis of the fins clipped before the fingerlings leave Gaden Hatchery). The fish were taken on PowerBait and scrub worms fished from the bank in reasonably shallow water, and on Tasmanian Devils and Rapala minnows trolled on flat line. Most of the fish came from Creel Bay and may have been on their way to the spawning grounds in the Thredbo River.

Top: Browns like this, returning from the spawning run in the Eucumbene River, are now back feeding hungrily in the main body of the lake. Bottom: Murray cod are still taking surface lures but some appear to have become wary of them, recognising them as not being the real thing. released in the spring thaw but the more important releases will come from water-soaked alpine bogs which slowly release water over a period of months. Hopefully that will keep the streams flowing until regular rainfalls take over. MOUNTAIN LAKES Jindabyne had been desperately quiet for a long period but just recently has shown some promise. The big worry had been the seeming absence of rainbows for much of the summer and early winter. There was much discussion as to whether they had died or were just lying doggo, but with only limited anecdotal evidence and no scientific information to go on, no answer was forthcoming.

The main spawning run of rainbows should by now be well underway, and a trap installed to obtain fish for stripping at Gaden will also provide an opportunity to count the fish moving upstream for comparison with previous years. That should tell us whether we do still have a viable population of rainbows in the lake. Most of the browns caught have been large, mature fish which have already spawned and put on condition again. The best catches have been on bardi grubs and scrub worms but some took Tasmanian Devils, River2Sea Live Minnows and Rapala minnows. Fly anglers are

just starting to find a few fish Polaroiding the banks on the sunnier days. Eucumbene also has started to yield a few fish. Many of the browns which have returned from spawning are hungry and will take almost any bait in order to put on condition. They have returned from the spawning run in large groups so if you are lucky enough to fish where a group relocates you can get a bagful. A few metres away you may get nothing. Many of the fish have been quite large, and a 3.9kg male was caught at Buckenderra recently. Some nice fish also have been taken on lead core line in the deep water near the dam wall. Flyfishers working from a boat with sinking line also caught some good fish. One group at Buckenderra using big Woolly Buggers and a variety of small wets landed eight rainbows and two browns in a single session. TANTANGARA GAMBLE Tantangara usually fishes well during winter but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a gamble heading in there in case you get snowed in. It pays to take extra food, water and fuel with you in case you get trapped for a few days. You should also leave specific instructions with somebody trustworthy about your travel plans. Several groups have recently done well with full bags of smallish browns on fly and bait. The lake has been much fuller at 60% than in previous years, and the fish are enjoying feeding on newly covered ground. LOCAL LAKES Canberraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local lakes have been expectedly quiet during winter, but a few crafty anglers have caught fish. Newly-accredited Fly Fishing Federation teacher Nathan Walker has been experimenting with a variety of new flies he has constructed, and has landed two Murray cod weighing about 8-9kg using an 8wt rod and a weight forward floating line. Both fish were taken from Yerrabi Lake late at night when the temperature was at or below zero, so he really earned his reward. Anglers fishing surface lures at night also have landed an occasional fish, but there is a sneaking suspicion that some of the fish are wising up to the lures and are more reluctant to take them than they were when we first started with them some time ago. PEJAR FAILURES Anglers are disappointed with the fishery at Pejar Reservoir. Despite intense stocking with browns, rainbows and bass in recent years few fish have been caught. Nathan Walker flogged the reservoir to a foam for one full day for just one rainbow on fly. Two other

Nathan Walker landed this Murray cod on a new fly he had just tied, late on a freezing cold night in Lake Yerrabi. anglers landed two rainbows on deep-diving lures but numerous other anglers have registered a nil score. BURRINJUCK PROMISING Burrinjuck yielded a lot of Murray cod and golden perch early in winter, and although catches have declined in midwinter it is still worthwhile trying.

Murray cod have been taken mostly on spinnerbaits fished in shallower water around the lake edges in recent weeks. The main basin and lower reaches of the Goodradigbee Arm have been the most productive. Some fish have also been taken by shore anglers using live yabbies, shrimps and scrub worms. Golden perch similarly have been taken on bait from

the shore, especially in the afternoon. The lake is now 68% full and still rising. Trees where golden perch were schooled up in early winter are now well underwater and hard for anglers to locate. A few small redfin have been caught but they have generally been quiet. They are likely to be spawning at the moment.

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Rising lake joins expectations JINDABYNE

Steve Williamson swtrout@airlan.com.au

We certainly had a good start to the snow season this year, which is excellent for the rivers and streams when it melts in spring. At the moment there is 2m of snow on top, which means good lake levels for the spring – we could even end up with 100% capacity again as we already have 88% and the lake is still rising. So far this winter the lake fishing has been excellent with great shorebased angling and it can only stay that way. This is the third year in a row we have had fantastic shorebased fishing in winter.

Bait fishing has been very good with the best baits being scrub worms if you want to catch a good brown trout or for rainbow trout artificial baits in orange or pink (or mixed) have been great. The best rig for scrubbies is a simple big scrubby onto a hook and no weight added. You don’t need to cast out too far and with light tackle you will get the distance needed anyway. With the artificial bait, experiment by placing on a scrubby as your weight to cast and have a simple dropper of artificial bait floating above; this duel hook rig works wonders. If you like to throw lures, spin the edges of the lake, preferably in the

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sheltered bays, with lures in rainbow trout and brown trout patterns. The jointed Rapalas worked very slowly is the best way to catch a lazy trout when the water is so cold and the fish are a little sluggish. If the weather is dirty then orange or pink lures may work better as these are aggressive colours for trout in winter spawning time. For deeper water on really sunny and still days when the trout may be spooky in shallow water, you can use lures such as the Tasmanian Devil. Throw them out well past the fish and then wind in slowly. Again colours like the pink number 55 or the brown number 48 are sure to catch a fish or two. Y48 Tasmanian Devil is also well worth having in your tackle box. The better times are early and late in the day but you can still catch fish near the rocky points and deep drop-offs during the middle of the day. Some of the better winter areas are Hatchery Bay, the South Arm and you might like to try Curiosity Point. Traditionally August is ‘polaroiding’ (spotting trout with the aid of Polaroid sunnies) month for anglers and that also started early this year. Well, I guess if you’re coming to have a fish in August, we had better look at my predictions for this month in more detail. If all goes to plan the fly fishing should improve towards the end of this month as we head towards spring and the edges of the water warms a little. Green nymphs fished near the rocky outcrops should catch a fish for you. If on the day the water is a little choppy then move to a olive streamer pattern like a Woolley Bugger or similar. If polaroiding the lake, fish quietly and approach

the water only after trying to spot a fish. The western shoreline from Curiosity Rocks to Hatchery Bay is excellent to spot fish during August and don’t forget to keep away from my area over at Sids Bay. Another area for big fish is Creel Bay at Waste Point but remember this is in the Kosciuszko National Park and you are expected to have a pass. You will need to purchase the pass at either Cooma or Jindabyne visitors centre. Trolling is our most popular fishing tour during winter and we almost always catch a fish. Some of the big Atlantic salmon released by Gaden Trout Hatchery last June have now been caught but there is still more out there and they are a lot of fun to catch. There is no real special lure to attract the salmon you just have to be in the right place at the right time, but they do not mind a little bit of silver on the lure and the Tasmanian Devil number 77 autumn brown has been very good.

Fernando Pontes with a good winter brown caught on a Steve Williamson special black yellowing Tasmanian Devil lure.

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Amanda Walshaw with a winter rainbow. Other good lures to use at the moment are Tassie Devils in numbers 55 pink and 72 and No. 50 frog pattern or 36 yellow wings on the sunnier days. For the bigger brown trout I like to troll larger 9-11cm jointed Rapalas and the brown trout pattern is a favourite. Lion and Cub islands as well as East Jindabyne Islands are excellent trolling spots at the

moment, you need to troll close to the edges for best results. With winter trolling it is always important to remember that with the cold water the fish move a lot slower and so it is important to troll slower than in summer and it may be that an electric motor or some sort of trolling baffle may be needed to get the boat down to about 3km/h at the most.

• If down in the Snowys over the next month call into my shop at Discovery Holiday Park, say hi and pick up a copy of the latest fishing report. If you would like to join me on one of my charters, just give me a call on 02 6456 1551 or 0408 024 436. Also visit my web site at www. swtroutfishing.com.au for all the latest fishing reports and find out more about our winter tours.

Finishing in style WAGGA WAGGA

Scott McAuliffe

The start of September is significant for one major reason: it marks the closing of the NSW Murray cod season, which means we can’t target these fish until December 1. However, anglers can still target golden perch which tend to populate the same areas as Murray cod, so there is every chance we will hook a few Murray cod throughout this period (if you do hook one, please

release it quickly with minimal handling). The season finished in style with numerous 1m+ fish picked up in the final weeks. The good news is that September is usually when we start to see some golden perch show up after their winter hibernation. Small minnows and low profile spinnerbaits are the best lures to target early season goldens. Casts need to be right on target as the fish will be tucked in very close and won’t be in a hurry to chase a poorlypresented meal.

EUCUMBENE After one of the best snow seasons we’ve had for quite some time we can expect to see some brilliant fishing over the next two months. We just need to cross our fingers and hope that Snowy Hydro leaves the water in the lake for at least a little while. Most of the spawn run should be over by now. There may well be some late spawning rainbows that will still be up in the river, but the majority should be back in the lake. This means we’re in for sensational shore-based angling. These post-spawn

Bank side can shine ECHUCA

Ian Page

Finally spring is here. For some anglers it is time for a small break with our cod season now closed until December. For others, it is time to explore all our other species in the region that sometimes get put to the backburner. September can also present the type of angling where boats aren’t as important and bank fishing really shines. Yellowbelly in great size and numbers start to

for many strikes and hook ups. Now is a good opportunity to cast spinnerbaits and hardbody lures as you walk the banks; keep in mind that there will be some aggressive redfin looking to devour those lures as well. If looking to fish with bait, scrubworm is always top of my list this time of year. If you have another rod try either yabbies or shrimp, as on their day they can all have results. I fail to understand why more anglers in the region don’t fish with plastics. This is the perfect time to hone

and are now converts to the art of plastics! There is also large numbers of silver bream and trout cod around and the size of these fish seem to be increasing. Both of these species are protected and must be returned to the water – they will at least keep the kids occupied. Most anglers obey the fishing regulations as we all focus on fishing for a better future and sustainable numbers, so future generations of anglers get to enjoy our pleasurable pastime. So with the warmer longer

Tay Evans had a dream introduction to casting spinnerbaits when she picked up this horse of a cod on one of her first ever casts. fish are hell-bent on one thing and that’s eating, and they will cruise the shoreline in search of any edible offering. Bait fishers will do very well with live baits like scrub worms and grubs. You should fish these unweighted and within 3m of the shore a fair distance away from where you intend on sitting. As usual, plastics will work the best for lure fishers, and don’t be afraid to fish 3”+ plastics. Last

year throughout September and October myself and my fishing buddy managed to land 17 browns all over 7lb, and all on the 3.5” black and gold Berkley PowerBait T-tail. This amazing plastic is apparently no longer being made, but any paddle tail in a dark colour should work when fished correctly. Land-based flyfishing will also work very well. Bigger flies like Woolly Buggers and leech patterns

fished slow along the bottom contour will work on the browns, and if you throw a trailing black or brown bead head nymph behind it you will put yourself in with a good chance of snagging a rainbow. There has been a lot said about the lack of rainbows over the past 12 months, but hopefully with some good conditions over the next few months we will see a resurgence in their numbers.

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CONTACT POLYCRAFT OR YOUR NEAREST DEALER A trout cod on an Oargee Lure taken near Mathoura that was released shortly afterwards. appear right along the Murray as well as the Goulburn, Campaspe, Gunbower Creek and Kow Swamp. While some prefer to use lures at this time of year those that like to use bait will certainly have some great results. Jackalls are an excellent lure choice and account

the techniques involved and catch some great fish on lighter gear – it is just about putting in some time. I have had some great days targeting redfin on plastics and at times have talked some regular anglers that come into the shop into giving it a real go. They often come back days later telling me of their catches

days of spring comes the perfect time to explore the local waterways and enjoy the fishing. • For the latest fishing and boating information in the Echuca/Moama region, drop into Boats and More’s Echuca store at 76 Northern Hwy or give them a call on (03) 5482 1992.

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Cod season done and dusted ROBINVALE

Rod Mackenzie codmac@bigpond.net.au

The Murray cod season is all done and dusted and when we look back and reflect on the last nine months we realise that our fishery is forever changing. The excellent cod catches we experienced this season are but a small slice of a much larger fishery that

season was enjoyed by many. The gate has been locked for a few months now and the countless acres of dry land well above river height are flooded as far as the eye can see, all the way to the highway several kilometres from the actual river. This is just one of many locations that are experiencing a so-called natural event that has replaced Mother Nature with a giant pump and generator.

fish were well above the metre-mark. To chance an oncoming rise in water levels would see the cod bite with gusto and these days are those we remember over all else that’s fishing. Several times this past month we had captures of three or more metre-plus cod on lures in a weekend trip. Casting was most productive as the water cooled, and the larger fish seemed to find comfort in the shallows.

intended target. Smaller lures will replace those intended for cod and the action will come thick and fast, as the water starts to warm. Bait anglers too will cash in on the action as the fish once more glut a new generation of shrimp that seem to explode overnight. A few trips are in line for the cod closure and while the Murray locally at Wemen and Robinvale will provide good catches of golden perch I am looking for an upsize. Eildon is just the place to lock horns with a monster of the species. Off to the surf to chase a few mulloway and a feed or two of redfin from the Kerang Lakes will be a welcome change from the Murray River while the cod season is closed.

Steve Muns with a bad dose of cod thumb.

Last siren call for cod YARRAWONGA

Tony Bennett codclassic@bigpond.com

The fish responsible for Steve Muns’ cod thumb. continues to struggle at many locations. Some areas affected by the blackwater events are still producing but only a few, if any, cod, which is a stark reminder of the past. So

I am either too tired or perhaps too ignorant to see the bigger picture but I have seen the past and the legacy it has left. Did we learn nothing the first time round? I guess only time will tell.

While the golden perch were harder to tempt, most sessions would see at least one or two boated on lures with more on bait if you tried. Carp continued to bite well on bait and many an

Gus Storer and Gareth Lynch with a typical late season cod landed on a 120 Codzilla on the troll. One hit is all it takes! what did we learn from these mistakes and the detrimental impact they played on our native fish populations? Well, I would say nothing as the bush at many locations along the Murray River has once again been pumped full of water. Try dropping into Bottle Bend reserve near Mildura, a popular camping and fishing spot, which up until this 62

SEPTEMBER 2014

We did experience some excellent fishing this past month that was hit and miss as the Murray fluctuated up and down and the clarity changed from week to week. The chill of winter’s cold did little to help on the slowest days that sometimes would yield but a single strike on the lure. If it happened to stick, then all was good as most often these cool water

evening session was spent catching and feeding these rubber-lipped vermin to the numerous pelicans that were readily dying of natural cause and starvation along the banks of the Murray River. As we head into spring and the closure of the cod season, anglers will shift their focus – the numerous golden perch will become active and will now be the

The final siren is about to sound on the 2013-14 cod fishing season from September through to November inclusive. For those that are keen, you have a week or so to track down that elusive green beast you may have been chasing season long! Don’t despair, you may be only one cast or a short troll away from what you are dreaming of. Wind the clock back 12 months and Mulwala local Brad ‘Sultan’ Pepper landed a hat-trick of metre-plus Murray cod below the weir in the dying moments of the season, so there is still hope! Best bet fishing anywhere within Lake Mulwala or the Murray River is to troll big lures, 120mm+ in search of the bigguns. AC, Koolabung, StumpJumper, Custom Craft, Kuttafurra, Gidgee, Mud Eye and Paul Nicel’s are all lures that won’t let you down if you put them in the right place! Once the frosts hit, July’s fishing slowed dramatically with only sparse reports of cod and golden perch being caught within the region. The most exciting period was when the gates were opened below the weir and the yellas fired up for a few days, as they traditional do when there is an increase in water flows and a steady rise. Riley Norrish and Ian Ratcliffe were a couple of young fellas who ‘met in the middle’ when they came together from Adelaide and Orange respectively. Six days fishing saw the boys have a lot of fun in between

little action. After casting and trolling all points of the lake the boys changed tact and headed down the river with a bucketful of bait. Persistence paid off as on their final day Riley landed a healthy 42cm trout cod along with half a dozen crays (released) that took a liking to their scrub worms. Cray season continued and with it reports suggested most crews were getting their daily bag limits with a bit of work. Majors Creek and above up to Bundalong returned more consistent results than below the weir. Don’t forget come 1 September the targeting of Murray cod is illegal and Murray cray season closes. If you are in search of a yella or two remember that the Murray River between the Yarrawonga

Weir and main bridge at Tocumwal is totally closed to all forms of fishing. • Competition season is drawing closer by the day. If you are keen to get your name added to the Cod Classic, Golden Dollars, Dash 4 Cash, His and Hers Partners Classic or Cod Nationals mailing lists shoot me an e-mail at codclassic@ bigpond.com. If visiting Yarrawonga/Mulwala I urge you to call into Lake Mulwala Fish Camp & Ski, the shop with the big green cod out the front (Opposite the Post Office) in Mulwala and say G’day. We are your largest Murray cod specific shop in the region and specialize in all things “Green”! For any info on upcoming events or fishing reports give us a call on 03 5744 3133.

Riley Norrish with his 42cm trout cod from the Murray River.

Packing on the weight BATLOW

Wayne Dubois waynedubois@westnet.com.au

Spring is here and that means it’s yella time. The golden perch really start to fire this month, and that’s a great thing as we don’t have many other options to choose from, what with the trout and Murray cod seasons being closed. We really only have the three options: trout in the lakes, golden perch and redfin, which have now spawned and are a bit like the trout at this time of the year – pretty keen to pack on some weight after a laborious spawning season. REDFIN The redfin will start to disperse this month and will start creeping out of that deep water and head for the food-rich shallows when

For the best results with the redfin I’d stick to the deeper water in the 20-40ft range for your best chances, and target these fish with lipless crankbaits, blades, ice jigs, Mask Vibes or similar soft vibes, or heavily weighted plastics. GOLDEN PERCH Polaroiding golden perch is growing in popularity, and it’s little wonder. There’s nothing like the rush of spotting a fish in the shallows, casting to it, then watching it eat your offering in crystal clear water before going like the clappers as it tries to free itself. You will need long, accurate casts and lots of stealth for your best chances of polaroiding a fish. A slight ripple on the water will help when it comes to not spooking them before you get a cast in. Golden perch will be best targeted in the shallows around the entire lake, and

Above: With the trout season still closed and the Murray cod season just closed, redfin are your only other option this month. They are starting to leave their deep winter haunts and are beginning to frequent the shallows, making them targetable from the bank. Bottom: This is what September is really about in our lakes: big golden perch. The fish haven’t seen much fishing pressure this early in the season and are easier to catch than they are later in the season. they dare. Unfortunately for the redfin, the golden perch are also heading for the shallows – and any small redfin makes a good feed for these guys. This everpresent danger means that although the redfin will venture into the shallows it will be only for a very short time or in areas that aren’t holding too many natives.

the backs of any shallow weedy bays are always worth a few chucks. The fish will be roaming looking for females and likely looking spawning areas, so even those open, apparently desolate banks can hold fish. Few anglers will be targeting fish in these areas so the fish there will be less spooky and easier to catch.

This early in the season the fish haven’t been pressured too hard and conventional lures and methods will catch you plenty of fish. However, towards the end of the month and into October and November these fish will have seen hundreds of lures, mostly your typical brands. The fish wise up to the rattle, vibration and flash put off by the lures they’ve been caught on before, and they then become very hard to catch, especially on that same style of lure. It’s not just the extra fishing pressure that makes these fish smarter either. Additional contributing factors are the increasing number of anglers using lures and the higher prevalence of catch and release. When a fish repeatedly gets caught on a certain kind of lure, it starts to associate that style of lure (or lure colour) with an unpleasant experience and starts avoiding it. If you’re fishing towards the end of a season and on highly pressured waters, try using something the fish haven’t seen before or rarely see, as this will pay dividends in the way of extra fish at times. I will discuss this in more detail in next month’s issue. For now though the fish won’t have seen that much pressure. They’ll be easier to catch with most conventional lures now then they will be in a couple of months’ time so go get amongst them. If creeping around the shallows is not your thing you can target the thousands of golden perch that are fixated on spawning up around the wall and the island areas. The fish up here are thick and will completely black out your sounder screen at times, but trying to get these spawningfocussed fish to bite can be an uphill battle. Still, they do feed occasionally and are in super aggressive spawning mode so repeat casts with lures should see you come up solid at some stage. I generally find that late afternoon is the best time for these fish around the wall area, whereas the fish up in the shallows towards the back of the dam can fire all day long, especially on those overcast and/or windy days. TROUT The trout in the lakes at this time of the year are mostly up around the surface, making them a fairly easy target for flat line trolling and fishing from the bank. The browns will have well and truly finished their spawning run by now and will be starting

Trout will be feeding hard in the lakes this month. This fish fell to an Insanity Tackle Slap Walker but they won’t be too selective this month as they look to put on some condition after their laborious spawning attempts. to get back to their normal routines. These fish will still be doing a bit of gorging but there should also be some hungry early rainbows back from their annual spawning attempts which will be super keen to pack on some conditioning again. The rainbows and a lot of the browns will be patrolling the edges looking for any easy pickings so you won’t need to venture far to find fish if you are bank based. Bait fishing with grubs, worms or dough baits will work well this month, and remember the fish are in close so there is no need to try to cast a country mile. Around 5m off the bank is normally more then enough at this time of the year. Lure anglers should do well on most lures as the fish aren’t too selective after a laborious spawning run. They simply want to eat anything that comes with in easy chasing range. Fly anglers should also do well this month. Stripping most large wet flies like Woolly Buggers, Hamills Killers and Mrs Simpsons should see you get in on some action.

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Spring season jitters LITHGOW/OBERON

Glen Stewart stewie72@bigpond.com

Early spring can be a frustrating time to fish the Central Tablelands of NSW. You can get a little taste of the warmth ahead, then a big cold front from down south pushes up and rips it out from under you. Wild fluctuations in the weather can create opportunities though. Rapid rises in the barometer can have early season golden perch on the chew in Windamere, and the ensuing days of stable high pressure and sunlight can have fish moving to the banks to soak up some heat. Gently sloping northern facing banks that are exposed to the most sunlight will be your best bet. Pockets of remanent weed and some patchy algae growth on the bottom can hold small shrimp,

baitfish and the like. These critters are drawn to the warmth, and the golden perch follow. SHOW US YA SKIRT Slow moving lures and baits are the key to success. Skirted jigs have been a standout performer for me over the last few years, and smaller models aimed at the American small-mouth bass market are the go. Head weights from 8-12g are about right. Most come with some form of weed guard, and I trim them off flush with the head as most of them are too stiff and affect the hook-up ratio. Skirt materials and colours are not that important although the darker colours might have an edge. Adding soft plastic trailers can add movement and scent, and I also go the extra step of adding some form of scent to the skirt and trailer on every half dozen or so casts. Fishing these jigs requires a particular mindset. You have to

concentrate on every retrieve to get the most out of them. It’s amazing the feedback you can get telegraphed up the rod to your hands and fingers via the head of the jig, the leader and the braided line. After some practice you will feel the difference between soft bottom, hard bottom, rocks (big and small), gravel, timber, weed, and of course fish. Bottom contact is very important at this time of year (less so as the water warms). The bites or hits can come at any time so line watching is important on the drop. Try to maintain some form of loose contact as the jig falls. Bites can be quite subtle when the jig is resting on the bottom, or vicious as you pull or pop the jig off the bottom. Early on in the season there is no such thing as too slow. Experiment with your retrieves, but be warned it can be very addictive! As the season

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(All levels correct at time of going to press. Dam levels can change at any time, so please check with local authorities to ensure safe boating and fishing.)

normally like to look back in my columns but this fish is worth a mention. Peter ‘Bagsy’ Harahan was the angler, and I’m not that surprised at his great capture as Peter is about as hard-core a fly angler as you would ever meet. He gets many notable captures at times of year that would

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1, those with the addiction have time to take a breath. Late August often turns up some quality fish and I hope you managed to get a few. One noteworthy capture back in late July was caught on fly, and the fish measured in at around 85cm. I don’t

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reason – there have been some great fish caught. It’s not everybody’s cup of tea though. You have to wait your turn, practically getting in a queue on some days to have a crack. To say it’s been busy up there would be an understatement… on some weekends the carpark has been full to overflowing.

The rainbow trout false spawn on shallow gravel points that are exposed to the wind. For most anglers it can be quite frustrating casting at these fish in full view for no result, but a few things can put the odds in your favour. Fistly, fish it mid-week and get there very early. Flyfishing for these fish is possibly the

Most rainbow trout will have finished spawning by the end of the month. With not much eaten recently it’s a great time to throw little deep diving minnows such as this OSP Power Dunk.

best option with a weighted glow bug and a trailing nymph, and you should stay low and watch the fish closely for any reaction strike or adjust your

SA022

have many of us scratching our heads. LATE SEASON SPAWNERS Rainbow trout can still be in spawning mode in September, especially early in the month. Thompsons Creek Dam (TCD) has been a mecca for many anglers over the winter months, and for good

presentation accordingly. Spin fishers don’t totally miss out either. Very small weighted soft plastics or feathered jigs account for quite a few fish as well.

A hint of bright orange in your plastic or feathered jig can be a good trigger. I hope to see you on the water soon. Until then, tight lines.

Skirted jigs are my go-to lure for golden perch in late August and early September. Be warned, this style of fishing can be very addictive!

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Bass gobbling gudgeons MAITLAND

Dave McLean djfmclean@bigpond.com

With the arrival of spring we can hopefully say goodbye to those rotten, cold westerly winds that can easily put an end to a nice day’s fishing. The days will start to get longer and with the air temperatures rising the water temperature should follow. Both Glenbawn and St Clair fell during winter and if we get some spring rains they will be looking good for the next couple of months. Over recent weeks the fishing on both Glenbawn and St Clair has been in tandem, providing no wind, with good numbers of fish coming off the banks with plastics and blades and the school fish on ice jigs and blades. With spring arriving and the water temperature starting to hit 16-17°C it starts the breeding cycle of two of the bass’ favourite food sources in both Glenbawn and St Clair. The first is the firetail gudgeon, which is a small native Australian fish. It has a grey to bronze body with black scale margins. During the breeding season the males are

almost black with orange-red fins. The males grow to about 5.5cm and the females to about 4cm. This can be very helpful when selecting colour patterns for ice jigs and plastics.

When the gudgeons are breeding they are usually found in deep water and can be easily seen on a good sounder. Once they have finished breeding they head to the shallower

Downscan showing bass at Glenbawn feeding on smelt down deep near cover.

Blair Whitney at Glenbawn with two beaut bass that fell to blades.

edges where they can be seen swimming amongst the weed where they feed on aquatic invertebrates. The second favourite on the bass’ dinner plate is the Australian smelt, which is a pelagic species that grows to about 75cm and is often found in great numbers in schools of several thousands. It is not uncommon when you catch a bass to see several hanging out of its mouth. These smelt feed on a variety of planktonic

organisms, micro crustaceans and small aquatic insects. These can be readily seen on a good sounder holding in the middle of the water column and resemble a large, dark cloud. When we do a bass stocking in our local impoundments we try to have it coincide with the hatching of these two baitfish as it is an ideal food source for the fingerlings. Now with the end of the closed season it will be great to get out on the rivers and check

out some snags and new areas to chase the fish. There has not been much rainfall over winter so the bass will still be down in the lower reaches as they don’t normally go back up the systems until some fresh comes down. In the early part of spring in the rivers I have found the fish to be very active and in reasonable condition. I like to use small lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits and hardbodies, all in very bright patterns as they tend to trigger more strikes.

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LAKE ST CLAIR Lake St Clair should continue to fish very well in September, especially as the water temperature rises and the weed continues to grow around certain edges. Over past years the dam has had more water and there was some good fishing up both the back of the Fallbrook and Carrowbrook. However, unless it gets some rainfall the fish might be holding up around the river channels lower down. With the water very clear the fish will be very sensitive and so working the banks should best be done in the low light periods or when there is some wind blowing onto the edges. This should also be a good time for surface lures and jerkbaits as the weed is about 2-3ft below the surface. Do not hesitate to walk the banks casting blades and small hardbody lures. Neutral buoyant jerkbaits work really well around the banks over this weed as they can be paused before quite often being engulfed when you recommence the retrieve. My favourite lure for this is the Jackall Squirrel in NF ayu pattern as it closely resembles the smelt in this dam. With the dam at its current level there is not much cover in the form of trees adjacent to the banks, so as the sun rises the fish will move out

into the 15-20ft depth where they can be targeted with blades and plastics. The beginning of spring sees the bass moving around the dam a lot so you may need to take plenty of time finding the fish, especially with the deeper school fish. These deep fish always like the deep plastics and blades and you’ll usually find them

not too far from some form of deep structure. A very handy tool to help find these fish is to use Insight Genesis mapping from Lowrance. An advantage when using this tool is when you upload it and scan it on your PC you will quite often see fish or structure that you missed out on the water. Another very good feature

with this program is you can also check the trends for this dam where it tells you the water temp, air temp, barometer and wind direction on the day of your mapping. Whilst you are mapping an area it can also be helpful to put out a lure that runs down around 5m in a dark pattern. Baitfishing should also begin to pick up this month, especially if the dam receives some rainfall and rises a couple of feet. GLENBAWN Glenbawn is very clear, especially down around the main basin, which usually is a sign that the bass will

be around cover and deep structure. Up the back of the dam where there is some usual snow melt influx from the Barringtons, the fish move onto the banks, especially near some form of cover and around the rock walls and drop-offs. This dam takes a little longer for the water temperature to rise and so working spinnerbaits and lipless crankbaits along the long sloping banks is quite often a very good option. I have found in September that very bright patterns and even fluoro colours can be very helpful.

There will still be some good deep schools of bass up around the back in the 40-60ft depths as this is where you will see some big schools of gudgeons and smelt appearing. Ice jigs and plastics, along with blades, are the go here. When using plastics I like to dip the tail in pink Spike It, and if I’m using ice jigs I like red eyes and a black body. For lipless crankbaits, the blackgold pattern has worked well for me. With spinnerbaits, the Bassman colour 42 is a winner. Trolling will also help in locating the fish with lures that run down around 5-7m and in solid patterns.

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Dave McLean with a bass that fell to a Bassman spinnerbait pattern 42 in around cover.

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Fishing Fill-its

Lure Award winners The third Australian Lure & Fly Expo, held over the weekend of August 9-10, changed locations from Fernvale to the Ipswich Show Grounds for 2014. A part of the Expo that always attracts interest is the annual Lure Awards, featuring creative entries which are voted on by lure makers’ peers. The following three lure craftsmen each took away a trophy from this year’s event. BEST COTTAGE LURE Chris Nielsen from Chris’ Creations Chris is a jeweller by trade with 20 years’ experience under his belt, and a couple of years ago he decided he wanted to indulge his fishing passion by creating beautiful lure artefacts and collectables. “I wanted to create something a bit out of the box, to put something out there that would make people say, ‘how did he do that’?” Chris said. He has certainly achieved his aim with his new cicada, which took out the Best Cottage Lure award. Chris’ skill is evident in the intricate body and stunning finish, but it’s the bib that really catches people’s attention with its unique, elongated edges. Chris says he hand cuts and swages all his own bibs.

At the time of writing Chris hadn’t yet decided on a price for his new cicadas, but interested parties can contact him at christophers. creations@yahoo.com.au for a price, or for any other information about his expertly crafted collectables. MOST ARTISTIC LURE Aaron Young from Kuttafurra Lures Winning the Most Artistic Lure award was a great achievement for lure maker Aaron Young, whose large crayfish imitation was pitted against some very strong contenders. Aaron’s crayfish exhibits exceptional attention to detail, with a carved body, realistic spikes and jointed moveable claws. Like all Kuttafurra handmade timber lures it has a design and paint job that’s second to none. This stunning lure was both a side project and a labour of love for Aaron, who worked on it whenever he found some spare time to kill. “It took many months to make,” he said. “I just kept coming back to it and tinkering with it until I finally had the finished product.” This lure does swim, so theoretically you could fish with it, but Aaron says he

wouldn’t dream of fishing such a unique collectible. You can find more information on Kuttafurra Lures at www. facebook.com/kuttafurra. lures.7 along with stacks of photos of the range. BEST COMMERCIAL LURE Jamie Judd from Gobsmacked The winning Commercial Lure was the Buzz Bug from Gobsmacked – essentially a topwater popper with buzzbait arms. It’s designed to be popped along the surface, which makes its propellered wings spin to create maximum attraction, like a large winged insect struggling on the surface. Designer Jamie Judd said the inspiration for the design came from cod fishermen, specifically one of his friends in Canberra who told Jamie the cod were smashing big bogong moths on the surface. He told Jamie it would be great to have a lure to replicate the large moths, so Jamie got to work. The Buzz Bug will be available in tackle stores for a suggested retail price of $16. To view the full range of Gobsmacked Lures you can check out their website at www.gobsmackedlures. com.au. – FM

Top: Check out the bib on Chris Nielsen’s award winning cicada. Left: This lure really turned a lot of heads in the display cabinet. Check out the stunning detail in this Murray Cray lure. Right: The Gobsmacked BuzzBug is designed to imitate a Bogong moth for Murray cod chasers.

s you may not be aware, from 2nd June, Australia Post will introduce 2 delivery timetables for their Print Post services, which will affect the delivery time of your magazines. The current delivery timetable continues but will be renamed “Print Post Priority.” The second Timetable will be named “Print Post Regular.” The names “Priority” and “Regular” reflect the different performance of the two timetables. Your magazines will be sent as “Regular” and Australia Post says it may take between two and four business days longer to be delivered than the “Priority” timetable. We will still endeavour to get your magazine to you before it goes on sale at the Newsagents but ultimately, we are at the mercy of Australia Post and have no control over them once they are lodged into their system. We welcome your feedback on your Australia Post experience to kym@fishingmonthly.com.au. 68

SEPTEMBER 2014

Goldens are flourishing TAMWORTH

Adam Mears adam.mears@hotmail.com

Spring is a time of change. The birds are singing and the Murray cod will be doing their best to breed and spawn for future seasons. Murray cod season ends on September 1 so if you do catch one by accident please return it to the water immediately, as stressed fish will often lose their eggs during this delicate time. To limit your captures of cod during the closed season stick to lures more suited to the golden perch, which will be flourishing and feeding well after their winter hibernation! Lures in the 45-65mm range will be the go, with lipless crankbaits and vibes a proven winner on the perch.

the numbers of these tasty crustaceans, so look for weeded banks and areas where shallow rocky bottom meets the clay and you should come up trumps. Suspending lures are great for this sort of work, as are small blades and soft plastics. Those fishing with bait around the dam should still do well providing you have the right bait. Some anglers who breed their own yabbies will do extremely well, and bobbing raw prawns slowly up the trees will also bring some success. And all of you flyfishers out there will be jumping for joy as the spring run of large carp in the shallows will be in full swing as they breed and school up around the edge of the dam. Sight casting Woolly Buggers or

As the water warms and abundant food sources become more readily available, the resurgence of catfish in the Peel and Cockburn is amazing. Even though it is illegal to keep them from our river systems, being able to see their nests along the river edges is a great sign that they are breeding and doing well. Just like in the dams, the carp will be menacing the edges in search of love and food. Target them with bread, corn, worms or (my secret bait) hot chips with chicken salt! This will see you having a blast on these hard fighting pests. Just remember not to return them to the water as they devastate our native stocks and damage our fragile ecosystems. Another great activity as the weather warms is yabbying. Taking the kids down to the river or pond for bait collection can be hours of fun as for them and teaches them a great lesson, and they’ll have dozens of chances to catch clawed crusaders. A length of 1-1.5m of light monofilament line with a piece of meat like liver or steak tied to the end is normally best. As the line pulls tight you slowly and smoothly bring the yabby close enough to the surface to put a small scoop net behind it before it shoots off back to its hidey hole. Scotts Road Creek, the river behind Peel High and Tangaratta Creek are great locations and have a nice little area to set up a picnic

John Prygonski working the banks of Lake Keepit for his nice chunk of gold. lunch if you’re making a day of it. If adventure is your thing and you don’t

mind the extra travel, Sheba Dam is stunning and also holds good populations of

yabbies, not to mention the chance of catching a rainbow trout or two.

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Top: Springtime goldens always have beautiful colours in the lead-up to spawning. This specimen came from the shallow timber in the background. Bottom: Murray cod will be a bycatch this month. Please release them quickly to avoid disturbing their breeding cycle. DAMS Split Rock Dam out past Manilla has been starting to show good signs of fish in recent weeks after what seemed to be an eternity of inactivity. A few reports of golden perch and eel-tailed catfish have kept anglers happy. Lake Keepit should be heating up, and fishing the shallow banks around the lake will see the golden perch foraging for the first of the emerging shrimps and yabbies. As the water temps start to rise so will

worm imitations will take the majority of fish. RIVERS After last month’s rain a good flow has come back to the river and hopefully a good breeding season lies ahead for our beloved cod. The recent rain has stirred the yellowbelly for the bait fishers, with good reports of 35-40cm fish falling for worms in all the favourite spots. For those chasing the yellowbelly on lures they would be coming on the bite by the time you read this.

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What’s new fishing Powered by

ECOODA ROD CASE

The new Ecooda Deluxe Rod Case is leading the pack in design concepts for rod friendly travel. With a threepart design, two-colour concept the Deluxe Rod Case extends from each end in a telescopic manner with the blue sections being able to be placed in more than one travelling position. From 1.5m to 2.2m the Deluxe Rod Case can carry up to 10 rods, has internal wavy foam that is adjustable to suit the guides, tips and butts and aid in the protection and secure travelling of your products. There are six locking mechanisms as well as two points for padlocks to prevent the unrequired opening of your case. A flat design ensures that your rod case won’t roll around in the car, ute or airplane and allows you to pack on top of it in all circumstances as well. Price: from RRP $239.95 www.ecooda.com.au

SQUIDLY RIGS BY BLACK MAGIC

Black Magic has added a new product to their extensive range of pre-tied rigs – the Squidly. Rigged with three soft squid lures, it is similar to others on the market, but Black Magic has made sure that this one is a cut above the rest by using superior quality raw materials. Each squid is rigged on a strong hook to suit tougher fighting fish, and is rigged on 80lb trace. Squidly rigs come in a range of five great colours that are effective on a wide variety of fish species. Target species include snapper, cod, kingfish, coral trout, flathead, mackerel, queenfish, mangrove jack, mulloway, trevally and salmon. Keep an eye out for the Black Magic Squidlys at your favourite tackle store. Price: RRP $9.95 www.blackmagic.com

PENN BATTLE II SPIN

Inspired by design innovations made possible through new technology, Penn introduces the improved Penn Battle II. Penn has added line capacity rings to let the angler know when the spool is properly filled. This ensures that the casts are not subject to excess line stripping from the spool, resulting in improved castability. This reel has enhanced corrosion resistance due to the improvements of using five sealed bearings and one antireverse bearing. The Battle II incorporates keyed carbon fibre washers in the HT-100 drag system that uses both sides of the drag washers and increases maximum drag by 15-50%. Many original Battle features remain in the Battle II, including the full metal body, sideplate and rotor; instant anti-reverse, heavy-duty aluminium bail wire and superline spool. Eight Battle II spinning reels are offered in 1000 to 8000 sizes. New to the line-up is the 2500 size designed for inshore/light braid applications. Price: RRP $220-$260. www.pennfishing.com.au

STRIKE TIGER MICRO SPOONS

Strike Tiger is a Tasmanian fishing lure brand best known for their range of quality soft plastics. With the island state having some of the best trout fishing in the country, Strike Tiger has now released a specialised lure aimed solely at trout in small rivers, creeks and streams. Measuring only 22mm, the new Strike Tiger Micro Spoon is exactly what the name suggests. The spoons weigh in at 2g and are fitted with single, fine-wire barbed hooks. This ensures maximum hook-ups, even on smaller trout. These tiny spoons can be cast accurately and for lengthy distances, despite their small size. They will naturally flutter as they sink to the bottom, attracting trout to strike almost immediately. They can be fished with a slow, flat retrieve, or left to drift and flutter in the current of any stream or river. The spoons are currently available in three trout slaying colours: beetle, fire tiger and perch. Price: RRP $9.95 www.striketiger.com.au

NEW BULLET COLOURS

Hot on the heels of successfully launching his 3cm Bullet Minnow, Jason Pace from Bullet lures has added a great range of new colours just in time for the upcoming trout season. The Bullet Minnows are popular due to their fantastic castability and their great action, no matter what speed they are retrieved. A lot of effort has gone into the development of these lures to ensure they swim true, regardless of water depth and flow. It’s small wonder these lures have a great reputation for their fish catching ability. These new colours are bound to be a musthave for any serious angler. These lures are fitted with quality Owner trebles and are built to last, so go out and get one today. Price: RRP $12.95 www.bulletlures.com

SHIMANO ANARCHY RODS

Shimano’s new Ian Miller-designed Anarchy rods are looking to restore order to lawless fish wherever they are found. This impressive rod range makes use of Shimano’s new X Technology Construction, which is a major development in rod blank design, and something we’ll be hearing a lot more about in the future. Fuji K series ‘tangle free’ guides for greater casting efficiency and distance are almost a given on a prestige rod series like this, while hook keepers on the lighter rods are useful to protect that small minnow’s trebles or soft plastic tails from damage The line-up consists of nine rods — five spin, from ultra light to a beefy saltwater spin, a one-piece medium baitcaster, and three PE-rated spin jig rods. The custom EVA and cork grips (where applicable) have aluminium accents which, when combined with the gloss black ergonomically designed reel seats, make Anarchy rods look ultra stylish and definitely cutting edge. Price: too new www.shimanofish.com.au

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129 nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au

What’s new fishing Powered by

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SHIMANO 3 ZERO

The Ian Miller-designed 3 Zero rods are an all-new release for the upcoming season. There are seven rods, ranging from a two-piece ultra light spin through to a handy Top End spin, plus a onepiece baitcaster. These rods are all about being in tune with what that hard body, vibe, spinnerbait or soft plastic is doing down there, transmitting any tap, nudge or bump from structure or fish immediately to the angler’s hands. This is due to the use of nano technology in the high modulus blanks they are built on. As befitting a rod series like this, they all feature Fuji K series ‘Tangle Free’ guides, and the reel seats are of a custom design, combining strength with lightness. The grips are interesting, with a mix of custom cork and EVA combinations, providing longevity and instantaneous strike transmission. Of course the whole sensitivity experience is enhanced by using braided line like Power Pro, which these cutting edge rods are perfectly suited to. Price: too new www.shimanofish.com.au

BLACK MAGIC BMAX

DAIWA DT4601 TREBLE

Black Magic has introduced a new range of lures under the name BMax. The BMax 60 is designed as a subsurface suspended lure ideal for the likes of trout, bream, redfin and Australian bass. This 60mm lure has an ideal weight for casting and it is perfect for both spinning and trolling. The short bib lets the lure dive down 1.2-1.8m and ensures a very enticing swimming action. The Black Magic BMax is rigged with strong, sharp treble hooks – one on the belly and one on the tail. It’s available in a range of five fish-catching colours and is competitively priced. Price: RRP $9.95 www.blackmagic.com

The best lures need the best accessories and there are none finer than new performance inspired lure accessories from Daiwa. Advanced in technology, performance and features, these Japanese-designed accessories are the must-have items to take your lure fishing to the next level, and keep your lures performing at their best. One of the latest models to be launched is the DT4601 treble. Strong and rigid in construction, it has a titanium nitride (TiN) coating for unrivalled corrosion resistance and hardness. Featuring a super sharp cutting point for optimum hook set, it’s sharper than most and cuts and penetrates like few others. With a sizing range from 1 through to 10, the DT4601 is the ultimate mid-size treble range. The models are: DT4601 #1 (size 1, 6 per pack), DT4601 #2 (size 2, 6-pack), DT4601 #4 (size 4, 7-pack), DT4601 #6 (size 6, 7-pack), DT4601#8 (size 8, 7-pack) and the DT4601 #10 (size 10, 7-pack). Price: too new www.daiwafishing.com.au

NEW FROGS FROM SEARING

Quality tackle distributor Searing has launched two new frog imitations: the Damiki Air Frog and the Fish Arrow Still Frog. The 4” Damiki Air Frog features two hollow air chambers in its arms that act as floats. The self-righting design will always allow the frog to sit on its belly ready for a strike. A hook slit combined with two large paddle tails incorporated into the legs will allow this frog to be fished in open water or the thickest of cover. It’s ideal for barra, sooties, Murray cod and XOS bass. The Still Frog, created by Japanese lure company Fish Arrow, is a 65mm long weedless lure with a cupped popper face. Its extremely soft body allows for high hookup rates. It is also slightly weighted in the tail to help get over cover easier as well as to maximise the hook-up rate. The hooks are super sharp and strong for barra and cod. It weighs 3/4oz and comes in four colours. Price: RRP $12.99 (Air), $19.99 (Still) www.searingtackle.com.au

TT KIDS SHIRTS

If you have a little fisho in the family they can now share their love of the sport, just like mum and dad, in their ZMan or TT Lures Tournament shirt. These shirts are cool and comfortable, quick dry and they have a UPF 45 rating to help protect your little fisho, whether they’re collecting bait, fighting a fish, or splashing around and building a sand castle. ZMan and TT Lures Tournament shirts are now available in kids’ sizes – 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and XS, along with the adult range of S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL and 5XL. These shirts are ideal for those spending time outdoors and make a great gift idea for the angler, boatie or camper. Available to order from your local fishing tackle retailer, or online from the Tackle Tactics website at www.tackletactics.com.au. Price: SRP $59.95 www.tackletactics.com.au

NEW GULP MODELS

Combine the fish-catching profile of a Jerkshad with the enticing tail action of a grub and you get the Berkley Nemesis. Designed in Australia, the Nemesis shape is now available in a 4” size. The tail action of this shape has to be seen to be believed. On the drop or on the wind, the Nemesis tail swims at the slowest of speeds, delivering continuous lifelike action. Each Nemesis is also loaded with Gulp scent, a powerful water-based scent dispersion system that also makes Gulp 100% biodegradable. Berkley has also released a 3” Powerbait Twitchtail Minnow, with a unique thin tail that delivers continuous, lifelike action. Perfect for finesse situations, it comes to life with the slightest twitch of the rod. Each Twitchtail is loaded with Berkley’s Powerbait scent, which causes fish to hold on 18x longer. Both new models are available in a wide range of proven colours. Price RRP $8.95 (Twitchtail), $9.95 (Nemesis) www. berkley-fishing.com.au

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129 nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au

What’s new fishing Powered by

DUO AOMASA 188

RUPE’S IRONHIDE

Back with another release for 2014 is one of Japan’s most highly regarded lure manufacturers, DUO International, who have just launched the Aomasa 188. It took two years of R&D to give the Aomasa 188 the kind of sub-surface swimming action that meets the high standards set by DUO. It was created primarily with kingfish in mind – a species that is popular both in Japan and Australia – but it’s proven effective on other bluewater speedsters as well. Measuring 188mm and weighing 69g un-rigged, this lure casts like a bullet for its weight. By letting the lure rest on the surface then sweeping the rod back, you can achieve an ‘S-curve’ action just below the surface. Follow it up with a pause to cause the Aomasa to kick out to the side before resting vertically on the surface. This is the way the lure was designed to work, usually enticing a hit on the pause. The Aomasa 188 can also be retrieved fast to skip or walk. During Australian field testing these lures have accounted for GTs, sailfish, cobia, southern bluefin and yellowfin tuna as well as big kings. Price: RRP $45 www.duolures.com.au

The Rupe’s Ironhide lures have been designed and crafted in Australia for our tough Aussie fish and conditions using only the best methods and materials. The new and improved ABS plastic models of the Ironhide are quickly gaining a reputation as strong fish catchers, especially when targeting our freshwater natives. The new range of Ironhides features different finishes that were never possible with their timber predecessors, including rattles, clear body finishes, chromes and a couple with a laser finish that is sure to get a reaction from even the most stubborn fish! All Ironhide series lures come fitted with extra strong rings and trebles that will stand up to the toughest fight. With 10 colours in the range and a diving depth of 10-12ft, you are sure to find the right one for your target species. And if one of your favourite targets is bass, now is definitely the time to stock up on these fish catchers for the open season. For the full range of stockists of Rupe’s Lures go to www.rupes-lures.com. Price: RRP $14.95 www.rupes-lures.com

DAIWA SNAPS AND RINGS

Daiwa has released a new range of lures and lure accessories, and two of the latest releases are the Tournament Snaps and Tournament Split Rings. The new Tournament Snaps make it easier than ever to change lures. Light, symmetrically designed, and slim-line in profile, these high-quality stainless steel snaps won’t compromise the action of the lure, and are available in three models so you can match the right snap to the right lure. The models are the 8-SNAP (6.0kg), D-SNAP S (13kg) and SW-SNAP (34kg) and they come in packs of 10. Made in Japan from tempered highquality stainless steel the new Tournament Split Rings are the ultimate choice for the ultimate luring experience. Light yet incredibly strong, these super rings are available in five sizes and are unsurpassed in quality and performance. The models are the TSR #1 (5.4 kg, 20 per pack), TSR #2 (8.8kg, 18pack), TSR #3 (12.6kg, 16-pack), TSR #4 (27.9kg, 14-pack) and the TSR #6 (64.9kg, 10-pack). Price: too new www.daiwafishing.com.au

BX WAKING MINNOW

Combining the unmatched responsiveness of balsa with the rugged durability of a copolymer outer shell, the Rapala BX Waking Minnow is the ultimate surface waking bait. When fished slowly with the rod tip held high, the wide rolling action of the Waking Minnow rides right on the surface like a wounded baitfish, leaving a highly visible wake and bubble trail that will attract any lurking predators. Once the fish strikes, the premium VMC black nickel hooks will ensure you remain connected. Hand-tuned and tank-tested for perfection, the BX Waking Minnow is now available in a 13cm model that weighs 22g. Look it up on YouTube to see clips of the BX in action. RRP: $24.95 www.rapala.com.au

CHILLER FISH BAGS

The Chiller Fish Bag, distributed by Demop Imports, is designed to store your fish catch in a hygienic environment ensuring fresher, long lasting fish. This insulated bag holds ice for days and is ideal for boats both small and large. Its flared bottom keeps it stable on the deck, it’s insulated with 1/2” dense foam and has a waterproof zipper to keep fishy fluids contained. These sturdy bags are UV resistant and mildew resistant, and are built to withstand the harsh saltwater environment. They have a drain spout and a filler spout for easy cleaning, and fold up for easy storage. There are three models in the range, and the dimensions are as follows (*width refers to base which opens out): MINI – 100 cm (L) x 40 cm (H) x 20 cm (W*); MIDI – 150 cm (L) x 40 cm (H) x 20 cm (W*); and MAXI – 200 cm (L) x 60 cm (H) x 40 cm (W*). Price: from RRP $129-$299 www.demopimports.com.au

ECOGEAR PP 60F

The PP 60F is a new addition to the Ecogear premium hard baits range. This new arrival is a topwater popper lure, and its large cup-face makes an attractive popping sound on the top of the water to attract any predator fish in the area. When you make quick rod twitches, the popping sounds emitted by the PP 60F mimic the sound of fish feeding on the surface in shallow water. This new popper is fitted with ultra-sharp hooks and the best quality components to prevent dropped fish and give you the best hook sets possible. The PP 60F is designed to work great on a range of topwater feeding fish in both salt and fresh water. It measures 60mm, weighs 7.5g and comes in six awesome colours. Price: SRP $21 www.jml.net.au

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129 nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au

What’s new fishing Powered by

TESTED: Doble Outdoor’s LED lighting solutions Lighting in a camp is always important and the range of LED lights out there these days is impressive to say the least. On my recent camping trip along the Murray River I had the opportunity to sample a new product, a product that at that time was still in development but now has hit our shores and is available to consumers across Australia. That product is the Doble Outdoors camping system To start there are three products and these include a tent pole light (200t) and a wand or strip light (100p) and a 5w solar panel. Let’s look at each of the two lights individually as they offer great convenience and ease of use. 200T TENT POLE LIGHT The tent pole light is an incredibly simple and at the same time incredibly lateral piece of thinking. Essentially the tent pole light is a set of LED lights encased in a tent pole. Yep, a light in a tent pole. Just think about that for a little while and let the brilliance of the idea absorb into your head. I know when I was first told about the idea about a million things rushed through my head and all of them were good. The tent pole light is constructed using stainless steel outer casings with a twist grip extension mechanism that works very well. I used the developmental pole light behind where we cooked and that gave off enough light for us to work by when it came time for dinner or for an early cuppa in the pre-dawn gloom. There are three light intensity settings and we found the darker it got, the lower the intensity light we needed. While I’ll admit to not using the lowest setting all that much, the middle and top setting got a very good workout. On the top setting the LEDs throw out about 250 Lumens. That’s a lot of light! But where does the power come from I hear you ask? It’s all internal. Yep, a rechargeable lithium iron phosphate battery is inside the pole and the best part of all is that the pole comes as a kit with a small 5w solar panel that will charge the batteries within six hours, even on cloudy days. It’s quite amazing! The pole is extendable from 1.3m through to 2.3m and that gives you enough range to cover just about any tent or tarp set up around.

But that’s not all, as they famously say. The pole also has the ability to charge devices from the batteries. There is a USB adaptor with every light and also a Nokiastyle pin charging port included in the unit and I found that I could recharge my video cameras that needed a USB jack to charge. It was simply plug it in and the batteries charged them easily. Impressed? You should be as this is a really cleverly thought out piece of camping equipment. 100P PORTABLE LIGHT The 100P Portable Light or wand as I call it is just that, a small LED wand that can be used in a thousand different ways. Like the tent pole light the wand has three light settings and we used the lowest setting most often on the wand. Mainly used in the

The charging system is amazing. I charged my video cameras with the in built charger, however phones and more can be charged easily – even better when the 5w solar panel is attached as well.

to fix stuff under the bonnet of your car and more. The uses really are endless. SUMMING UP Both of these lights are brilliant in their simplicity and thinking. I love the idea of a tent pole that has a light in it. I love the idea of a solar rechargeable light – brilliant. These two lights are not cheap and nasty and are built to last, In fact the two year warranty gives purchasers a secure feeling when you buy them. I didn’t treat the lights with any great respect as I was told to use and abuse them. Most of the people who fish with me or know me, will know that’s not an ideal things to say to me as I will take that literally. On our trip the pole and wand were transported with all my other tarp poles in their canvas bag. They were treated no different from any other tarp pole I own and neither of the units showed any signs of breaking or damage. Additionally, the last night and morning both light got to experience the worst of the Murray River weather with persistent and heavy rain falling. It made pack up and the drive home for 20 hours a bit stinky and wet! I checked both lights when I got home and was drying everything out and the 12 or more hours of rain falling on them and then the day and a half of essentially wet storage did them no harm at all. That IP 54 water resistance rating is actually that – a very, very good water resistance rating. In my experience rain is no problem at all. I loved this kit. Both units filled a niche and provided more than ample light for my

The 5w solar panel is a little ripper and charges the pole and the wand quickly meaning you will have light whenever you want. Inside and out you can light up your world with these products.

You want light, you’ve got it. The tent pole is an ingenious idea that answers a lot of lighting questions.

tent, the wand was used as a tent light and as we trundled off to bed each night there was certainly no need for the full force of the LEDs to be used. The 100P actually outputs between 5 Lumens at the lowest setting and 125 Lumens at the highest setting and in a confined space, that is a lot of light output. Like the tent pole light, the wand came complete with an internal lithium iron phosphate battery that could be recharged by the same solar panel. In use though we did not charge the wand at all over a week’s use and that is a good testament to the charge the internal batteries hold. There is something like 250 hours of use available in a fully charged wand that is used on the lowest setting – that’s a lot of nights camping. The uses for the wand are almost endless as its portability makes it ideal for so many uses. A night light in the tent for the young ones, a stronger light for night excursions, a boat light for night fishing, an entryway light for the tent, a light to assist in cooking, a light

needs and we do set up a reasonably large camp. The 100P Portable Light sells for $139, while the 200T Tent Pole Light sells for $189.99. If you’re into camping that’s great value, especially when you consider how tough these units are. The 5w Solar Panel is valued at $109 and comes with its own neoprene protective bag. This is an essential purchase, but you do only really need one of these regardless of the number of poles or wands you buy as you can purchase a ‘daisy chain’ cable to charge multiple poles simultaneously. You can also buy a complete kit (Combo Pack) that has the 200T, 100P, 5w solar panel and a multi-function mini table (attaches to the pole) for $425. This would be the way I’d go as it’s good value and has everything you need. Check out the range at www. dobleoutdoors.com. Innovative, extremely useful and exceptionally functional. – Stephen Booth

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129 nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au

Kapten 610 Waverider Centre Console – X BRISBANE

Wayne Kampe wkff@aapt.net.au

Previously I reviewed the Kapten Waverider 490 powered by a 40hp Titan outboard. In the seas off Mooloolaba the Waverider’s radical hull – with its remarkable similarity to the successful features of the very well received Kapten Boat Collar – proved itself as a soft riding straight tracking craft with enormous potential. Kapten Boats, with Pat

Waverider 490. The 610’s hull, constructed from 4mm plate throughout featured a central, quite fine, entry section nestled within a pair of steeply reversed and quite massive outer chines. It’s a three section affair, but it certainly works! In practise the fine entry reduces impact against waves or chop while the tunnels created by the large external chines have a significant input on performance due to the amount of air being trapped under them while under way. The hull’s under water section, which is really a work

showed not the slightest tendency to broach or run off course with a wave on the transom. The massive external chines, commencing just a little short of the bow’s entry section, gradually flatten out aft to be less prominent, although still of significance, at the stern where there’s a 15º deadrise. Adding to the Kapten 610’s ride and performance are prominent longitudinal under hull strakes; these also commence not far from the bow and running along the bottom of the hull for some distance. The interesting under hull features described really do set this alloy craft apart from many contemporaries. I believe they are worthy of mention simply because of the influence they have on the quality of the craft’s ride and

The Kapten is a well-made, attractive looking craft with ample work room aboard.

Forward storage and handy rod holders are easily noted in this shot of the Kapten under way.

Top: The Kapten’s stern features are easily noted here, particularly the twin bait tanks and off floor battery storage facility. Above: The craft’s centre console offered plenty of room for large screen sounders and other instruments. Jones at the helm, have advanced to the point where overall finish is of a high standard throughout, the interior layout suited to a wide application of fishing pursuits and there’s a choice of several models available for buyers. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE HULL The basic Kapten 610 Centre Console – X Waverider’s hull’s design concept remains virtually unchanged from the earlier 76

SEPTEMBER 2014

of art given the workmanship involved in accurately forming 4mm plate alloy to this degree, has its strength in the craft’s uncanny ability to remain rock steady at rest, an ability to deliver excellent performance from modest power, and a great sea-keeping capability in an offshore environment. In 1.5m swells off Mooloolaba, the Kapten travelled very freely when running with swells and

Running easily at a level attitude reveals the Kapten’s unique bow and hull configuration.

handling. EASY PERFORMANCE Offshore at Mooloolaba I was impressed with the craft’s rapid transition from rest to planing in around a couple of boat lengths and at a low speed of 8 knots (14.8km/h) at 2,500rpm. As I drove the Kapten Centre Console 610 into swells the hull refused to bang or register hard impact and it was immediately noticeable that any spray was kept well down and away from the craft’s interior. The hull was very responsive to trim and could turn sharply when I wanted to chase down and then pass over a swell or two for the fun of it. The craft also turned without any noticeable leaning. Under acceleration the craft travelled at 14 knots (25.5km/h) at 3,000 rpm, 25 knots (46.3km/h) at 4,000rpm, 28 knots (51.8km/h) at 5,000rpm and 33 knots (62.4km/h) at 5,600rpm. Performance of this standard with a modest 90hp Honda on the pod astern

impressed me considerably, given the weight of the 6.1m hull at over 800kg and the fact that engine ratings are from 90-120hp. GENERAL LAYOUT As a centre console craft the Kapten 610 – X naturally offers stacks of fishing room. Up front an open anchor well nestled behind a sturdy bollard, and bow rails strong and prominent. A full width under deck off floor shelf offered substantial storage area for even quite large items. Further forward storage was offered via an under floor compartment. The floor area in front of the console was carpeted and elevated, offering a comfortable and handy place to fish; made even better by the fact that the fore deck corners in this area were neatly rounded for utmost safety and comfort. The Kapten’s 320mm wide decks came set up with six rod holders per side along with 1m long side pockets, which were quite handy for other storage duties. The windscreen and storage shelf equipped centre console had a strongly constructed hard top over it, extending aft to offer shade for skipper and mate. An LED light could illuminate the rear cockpit area. Headroom was ample; the shade a boon in our hot climate. In an unusual configuration, the box-like structure with a padded top for seating right in front of the console turned out not to be a storage compartment; it was actually a 210L fuel tank that could, according to Pat Jones, give the craft a range of approximately 300nm at a steady 18 knots. Fancy a run offshore to the Barrier Reef up north? Easy. Instrumentation on the console was functional. Up top a Garmin Echo Map 70S was set to port, a GME marine radio to starboard with a speedo and

tacho plus trim gauge lower and to starboard, with a bank of switches opposite. There was ample space behind the windscreen for a large screen should an owner want to install one of these popular units. Controls for the Honda 90 were within easy reach on the starboard side of the console; seating here consisted of a two person well padded unit attached to the rear frame work of the console’s hard top.

and self-draining floor a feeling of spaciousness. The craft’s interior cockpit sides were lined with inbuilt flotation material – the 610 has a 3C survey rating – which finished high enough from the floor to allow a foot hold if onto a large fish. A wide off floor shelf at the transom offered ample room for out of the way battery and fuel filter installation while a bait

that further rod holders aft are an option. The pod astern on which the Honda 90 was mounted came set up with non-skid steps each side for easy access by divers, and a handy deck rail there to assist entry. SUMMING UP I saw the Kapten 610 Centre Console – X as a great offshore fishing craft with a standard of performance, ride, and handling that would make

in the offshore environment. About the only thing I’d put aboard for a day of bottom

bashing or offshore trolling would be an icebox. The craft came on a

tandem axle custom-made trailer designed for roll off, drive on use. Price for the rig as reviewed was $53,900; reflecting the workmanship involved in the hull’s construction and the sort of performance it will deliver. • Quoted performance figures have been supplied by the writer in good faith. Performance of individual boat/motor/trailer packages may differ due to variations in engine installations, propellers, hull configurations, options, hull loading and trailer specifications.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION Length:........................................................... 6.10m Beam:........................................................... 2.493m Length on trailer:...........................................7.23m Height on trailer:........................................... 2.95m Weight hull: .................................................1120kg Construction:......................................... 4mm plate Hull Deadrise:.................................................... 15º Fuel:................................................................. 210L Engine ratings:.........................................90-130hp Engine fitted: . ...................... 90 Honda four-stroke Persons: ............................................................ Six Towing: .........................Family six wagon or a 4x4.

A solid, custom, trailer makes easy launching and retrieval of the Kapten an enjoyable part of owning the craft. USER FRIENDLY COCKPIT Wide decks plus ample freeboard of 860mm gave the Kapten’s main cockpit work area with its non-skid

station with rod holders was also a handy angling feature. Paired compartments in the transom could double as bait tanks or storage bins, as per owner’s requirements. Note

it a very useful fishing rig. Build quality and overall finish were excellent. She’s rated for up to six passengers although I’d see easiest fishing with perhaps four hands on deck

The solid Kapten centre console rig was amply powered by the Honda 90hp 4-stroke.

Why choose Brand X, when you can have a Quintrex?

DROP TO YOUR LOCAL equal. QUINTREX DEALER! Not IN all tinnies are created At Quintrex we are driven to build the perfect boat for any and all SYDNEY (SOUTH) HUNTS MARINE

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Visit our website and see the amazing range of tinnies that maintain an incredible resale value.

No matter where you are, or what you need, a qualified Quintrex dealer is nearby to help you out. After all, only someone who really knows boats can give you the best advice on boats!

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Aussie built Bonito 5.6m CC with 115hp Suzuki design of the hull has not changed because it’s been so successful. It’s dry and soft riding – they’re its greatest assets,” he explained. On the test day, we didn’t encounter water choppy enough to seriously test this hull – like a 25 knot southerly on Moreton Bay might – but it was easy to get the feel of the Bonito’s steep entry while crossing boat wakes and feel the attitude of the craft adjust as we moved people around the console. Roger’s been making boats for the last 12 years and specifically the Bonito hull for the last 18 months. And his philosophy about boat design and manufacture is reasonably simple.

FMG

Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

A lot of fantastic, Australian-built boats have humble beginnings. Built by passionate and knowledgeable people, there’s been no shortage of local offerings that are tailored to local waterways available to boaties over the last few decades. South East Queensland has always been a hub of boat building activity – from the giants Telwater, Haines and Riviera – right through to the shed-born gems. Legacy Boats’ Bonito is one of the latter. Legacy Boats is a partnership between boat builders Roger Barnes and Martin Slennett and they run out of a waterside shed near Jacobs Well between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

The Bonito’s lines are sure to turn a few heads. It’s a typical fibreglass boat builder’s shed – the messiness of building with a sticky, fine material offset by the shininess and brilliance of the inside of the moulds.

PERFORMANCE Idle.................................................................. 5km/h 1000rpm......................................................... 6km/h 2000rpm . .................................................... 13km/h 3000rpm . .................................................... 25km/h 4000rpm . .................................................... 41km/h 5000rpm . .................................................... 54km/h 6000rpm...................................................... 59 km/h WOT............................................................. 66 km/h

There’s no wood in any of the Bonito models.

BONITO

You can see the sharp entry that cuts waves and makes backbreaking trips across washingmachine like water much more comfortable.

Sportsfishing Boats AUSTRALIA

The ultimate in fishing and design  Tiller Series 5.0m and 5.6m  Centre, Side Console Series

It was here that Fishing Monthly met the guys, shot an interview with Roger (see the QR code for the link to the video) and hooked up the Bonito 5.6m model centre console powered by a 115hp Suzuki and took it to the Cabbage Tree Point ramp for some boating at the ‘Pin. Roger is proud of the heritage of the hull. “It’s got a very sharp entry that enables it to cross very choppy, open waters, which it was designed to do back in New Zealand in 1973. The

“I don’t like to build boats that are capable of sinking or that rely on bilge pumps to stay afloat. I prefer a boat that can be tied to a mother ship or anchored at night or left in a storm and you come back in the morning and it’s still sitting there waiting for you. Or if you’re crossing a bar or offshore and a foamy wave comes over the top of you, you want to be able to know that you’ll get home,” Roger continued. I think that there’s not too many open water boaties that will disagree with his sentiments. Match that with his dislike of the use of wood in boat building and you know that you’ll get a craft that will get you out and back again, but

5.0m and 5.6m

NO TIMBER NO ROT www.bonitoboats.com.au

 SPEND MORE TIME ON THE WATER

 SOFT DRY RIDE  STABLE AT REST  SELF DRAINING DECK

BONITO BOATS  STEIGLITZ QLD Roger 0438886813  Martin 0416099908  rogail@optusnet.com.au 78

SEPTEMBER 2014

won’t rot away in the driveway between trips. “There’s no timber [in a Bonito], we use Coosa, which is a composite product, in our transoms and there’s an option of using it in the floor, also. We used double bias in our hull layups, a full fibreglass stringer grid and our layups are basically to survey standard, which is needed for the commercial operators, who we build lots of Bonitos for.” At the factory there was a Bonito, mid-build, that Roger could display these features. Once the top deck is on, there’s no way to see the work and structures under the floor. The attention to detail was impressive – on both sides of the decks.

Like most glass boats, drive-on driveoff trailers make launching easy.

If you’re a keen angler, though, the peace-of-mind from a wellbuilt hull is one thing. What we all want to really know is how it suits your applications as an angler. The Bonito’s first runs on the board come from the list of customers who use Bonito boats. Around 50% of these hulls are destined for tiller steer motors and for commercial use. Commercial fishers spend ridiculous amounts of time in their craft and if the Bonito is the most comfortable and practical choice for them, then there’s a good chance that the ride will get the thumbs up from us recreational guys. The centre console is a great compromise between size (to store gear in and mount your instruments and electronics) and accessibility (to the front casting deck). In the main cockpit the gunwales are high enough to comfortably fish offshore – complete with toe-room under the shelves. Move up to the front casting deck and you’ll see that it’s high. Not bass-boat high, reflecting a great compromise between smooth and rough water needs. A front anchor well with a moulded lid keeps the sports fishing guys happy as there’s less to get your gear tangled in while going to work up for’ard. The test boat has aftermarket deck hatches installed, but

subsequent models will have styled and moulded custom lids available. This will only add to the strength and looks of the design. Down the other end, the stern is similarly organised, with nothing protruding to grab unwary legs or lines. Ridiculously quiet at idle, the 115 Suzuki roared to life with four on board and the Bonito jumped onto the plane. We’d imagine that with a weekend’s worth of camping gear onboard, it’d plane similarly. As-is, this boat would have to be one of the best ‘all-rounders’ you can buy nowadays. You could duck offshore, fish the bay, take it to a freshwater lake or fish a tournament in it and it would accomplish all jobs with ease.

Top Left: An elevated casting deck isn’t flush with the gunwale. Later models have customised hatch covers. Top Right: The stern is enclosed and tidy. Above: Suzuki’s 115hp 4-Stroke provided ample power for the test craft.

Best of all, if you’re interested in the Bonito, you can talk right to the guy that’s going to build it. There’s even a level of customisation available to get the boat ideal for your needs. Call Roger for more information on 0438 886 813. They have no website as of yet, so you’ll have to the get the information the old fashioned way. • Quoted performance figures have been supplied by the writer in good faith. Performance of individual boat/motor/ trailer packages may differ due to variations in engine installations, propellers, hull configurations, options, hull loading and trailer specifications.

Centre consoles can be too big or too small. This one is just right. SPECIFICATIONS Length:........................................................... 5.60m Beam:............................................................. 2.05m Draft:............................................................... 0.30m Dry weight:..................................................... 530kg Max hp:.......................................................... 150hp Recommended hp:......................................... 115hp Price as tested:............................................$34,000

OU T L AW 7 great models to choose from

429 Tiller steer 449 Centre Console/ Side Console 469 Side Console 489 Side Console 529 Centre Console/ Side Console

Contact your local dealer for more information SYDNEY

MACQUARIE COAST

1 Railway Rd North, Mulgrave Phone (02) 4577 6699 sales@blakesmarine.com.au www.blakesmarine.com.au

537 Ocean Dr, North Haven Phone (02) 6559 9344 enquiries@havenmarine.com.au www.camdenhavenmarine.com.au

ALBURY/WODONGA

LAKE MAQUARIE

474 Wagga Road, Lavington Phone (02) 6040 9999 bordermarine@westnet.com.au www.bordermarinecentre.com.au

1 Mayfair Close, Morrisset Phone (02) 4970 5541 mel@coasttocoastboating.com.au www.coasttocoastboating.com

BLAKES MARINE

BORDER MARINE CENTRE

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COAST TO COAST BOATING

GRAFTON

ILUKA

160 North St, Grafton Phone (02) 6643 1199 sales@discomarine.com.au www.discomarine.com.au

ILUKA BOATSHED AND MARINA 2 A Charles Street, Iluka Phone (02) 6646 6106 ilukaboatshed@bigpond.com www.ilukaboatshed.com

SYDNEY

CENTRAL COAST

DISCO MARINE

HUETT MARINE CENTRE 1131 Pacific Hwy, Cowan Phone (02) 9456 1444 info@huettmarine.com.au www.huettmarine.com.au

IN TUNE MARINE 425 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty Phone (02) 4333 3444 stacerboats1@aol.com www.intunemarine.com.au

SYDNEY

NEKEN MARINE 83-85 Darley St, Mona Vale Phone (02) 9979 9649 info@neken.com.au www.neken.com.au

THE ILLAWARRA

SUNSET MOTORS & MARINE 240 Shellharbour Rd, Warilla Phone (02) 4297 2888 sunsetmotors@bigpond.com www.sunsetmotorsandmarine.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2014

Side scan success BRISBANE

Nabeel Issa

“But that’s not fair on the fish… is it?” This is what I get told almost every time I teach someone about how Side Scan sonar works! If you have used it or seen it used, you are probably well aware of how successful this technology on your sounder can be. Although this article will be based on Lowrance products (Lowrance have had this awesome tool out

for a few years now), a lot of the principles of how it works can be shared across all brands. The screen shots are all taken from Lowrance HDS Touch Screen Models. If you have no idea what I’m talking about when I say Side Scan, it is basically sonar that can show you what is left and right of your boat, as opposed to traditional sonar that shows you only what is directly underneath. With Side Scan you can cover large areas as you drive your boat around and get a much clearer image of what’s underneath.

Show me the fish! So what do fish look like? Side Scan makes it easy to find fish but you need to know what you’re looking for and you need to make sure you understand your sounder. Making sure that you have a suitable range setting (i.e. the distance you are scanning) will also help to give you a better image. Generally fish will show up as small blobs or lines but in some cases you will actually be able to see the shape of the fish.

Got it? Good! Let’s get started on understanding how to read the image our sounder shows us. IN THE SHADOWS When it comes to reading our Side Scan images, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you get a much better understanding of what’s going on. Firstly remember that the brighter the object in the image, the harder the object is. Harder objects will give the sounder a better return signal and will display as brighter on your screen.

Have a look at this first image. No prizes for guessing that it’s a sunken boat. You can also see the dark shadow that is next to the boat; the shadow of any object can help with telling us more about what’s happening. Much like how we get a shadow behind an object that is lit up by a torch, sonar works the same. The sonar has ‘lit up’ the boat and we can see the shadow behind. In this instance the shadow is telling us the height of the sunken boat.

This image shows a school of mulloway from Moreton Bay in Southeast Queensland. Mulloway (or jewfish) are an easy fish to pick up on Side Scan as they are generally quite large. The fact that they often school up in big numbers also makes them easier to spot. In this image you can see to the left hand side of the screenshot there’s a bunch of small squiggly lines. Each one of these lines is a single fish. You can also see the shadows behind the fish. Here, the shadows are giving us a better indication of the fish and their shape. Different sized fish will show differently on Side Scan; smaller fish will obviously be smaller on the sounder. This is where playing with your range setting can help. In the previous screenshot of the mulloway, the range was set to 120ft. This is fine when searching for large schools of big fish, but when looking for smaller fish you’ll find that tuning the range down will help pick up those smaller fish that may otherwise become tiny specks on a larger range.

Shadows can also help to give us more information when we are unsure about what the object is. This next screenshot is of a ‘fish box’, a large, concrete box used in artificial reefs. If we look on the left of screen, at the actual object, we can see the white lines that make up the box. However, by looking at the shadow behind it we can get a better idea of the actual shape and form. We can also see a group of round objects showing on the left hand side. These are known as ‘reef balls’, another type of artificial reef structure used throughout Australia. There is no distinct shadow behind the reef ball so we can assume that it is tight to the seabed and isn’t very tall.

SEPTEMBER 2014

In this image the range has been set to 60ft and there is a school of fish that can be seen to the right hand side. These fish were tarpon ranging from around 40-60cm long. It’s also worth taking note of the shadows here. There is a slight gap between the fish and the shadows which tells us that these fish are not quite sitting on the bottom but are higher in the water column.

THE BOTTOM LINE Side Scan Sonar is a great tool for anglers and can really help improve your catch rate. It just takes a bit of practice to understand what you are seeing on the screen and knowing the limitations of the tool. For example, it won’t be as useful to you if you constantly fish in

water over 100m. In deeper water, your range needs to be increased and with some of the smaller screen sounders it can make it hard to pick up what’s going on. This is where having a larger screen will help. By the same token, in water under 1m deep, having a range setting of 150m is probably not the

smartest move and won’t give you much detail at all. Side Scan is an impressive feature that we have at our disposal, so why not take advantage of it and use it to help you catch more fish? I guarantee that once you spend the time to learn how best to use it, it will change your fishing as it has done for me!

This screenshot is showing bridge pylons on the right hand side. By physically looking at the actual bridge all I could see was a concrete slab, but thanks to the Side Scan image we can see a lot more detail. For instance here I can count there are 10 individual pylons supporting the large concrete slab that I could see above the water. Its important to note in this image that I was very close to the bridge pylons when the boat passed by. If you look closely you can also see a school of bait hanging around the top of the pylons and some bigger individual fish amongst the pylons. Definitely a spot I would be putting a cast into! And seeing what the structure looks like underwater is what Side Scan is all about. Lots of anglers assume that bridges are held up with these solid pylons that go all the way to the bottom, where in reality the structure is much more complex than that. Think now about all of the structure available in your local bridge pylons. Knowing what it looks like WILL make you a better angler, as you can adapt your approach for maximum effect.

abt

One last screen shot, again showing how important it is to look at the shadows. In this image we can see fish in the water column (in the dark blue section). It’s hard to tell what they are apart from the fact that they are quite large. If we look to the shadows on the right we can actually see a lot more detail and can pick out that they are actually sharks. In some of the shadows we can see the tail and fins of the shark. Knowing what range to set is a crucial part of gaining a good image. I like to start at around 80ft and alter it from there. There are no set rules and selecting the range all depends on what sort of fish you are looking for and the depth you are fishing in. I have found that the more time you spend using your sounder, the better you will become with picking the best range for the situation. When it comes to other settings, I like to leave my unit on ‘Auto’. With Lowrance units this setting tunes itself to give you a clear image and I find that there is rarely a need to change.

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Boating Safety

What to know about boating safety accessories FMG

Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

When we think about our fishing and boating expenditure, it’s usually all about the latest and greatest rods, reels, tackle and lures. If you have a boat, maybe you dream about the latest marine electronics or a flash new outboard. Not many of us devote a lot of thought to our safety gear and the bits and pieces that, hopefully, you’ll never have to use. The truth is, however, that you would be extremely glad to have them if things ever got nasty. So we’ve done some of the thinking for you and gathered a collection of products that you might like to have kicking around when the chips are down...

EPIRBS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

With luck, you’ll never have to use your Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). However,

when you do have to flick the switch on it, you’ll want to know that yours is in-date, well maintained and built to work when you need it. Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are an ideal safety device for anyone on the water that does not require an EPIRB. They are small, easy to store on your person or on a lifejacket, can save you in an emergency and, best of all, will notify emergency services as soon as you pull the trigger. Remote creeks, large lakes and estuaries or even inland waterways a long way from civilization; they’re ideal for a PLB.

FLARES

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Although it can be a pain in the butt to constantly ensure that your safety flares are in date, you’ll love that they’re as good as gold if you ever need to relay your position to a spotter plane or search boats. Drop your old ones off at your local VMR or Coast Guard and keep your new

World’s SMALLEST EPIRB and Personal Locator Beacon rescueME EPIRB1

the

rescueME PLB1

ones in a watertight container that’s easily accessible in an emergency.

LIFEJACKETS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Australian Distributor

For more information contact

1300 747 587 sales@allsat.com.au

MARINE RADIOS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

If you don’t log in to your local Coast Guard as you head offshore, you’re crazy – and you’ll need a decent marine radio and the training to use it. It’s so important when you’re offshore that a lot of guys fit their boat with two – 27mHz and VHF.

DISCOUNT

www.allsat.com.au

We all like to think that we’re Ian Thorpes in the water, but the reality is that if you’re treading water for any length of time – particularly clothed – you’ll fatigue very quickly. Well maintained Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are not worn nearly often enough in this country. I reckon that you should have them on at all times the

boat is under outboard power and any time you’re boating or fishing alone – regardless of what the regulations say about boat size. While I’m on the subject, if you don’t use your outboard kill-switch when you’re driving a boat, you’re mad. The last thing anyone wants is to fall out of a boat you’re driving and have it do a circle and repeatedly try to run you over. Wear it.

SEPTEMBER 2014

LIGHTING

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

If you’re boating between dusk and dawn you’ll need nav lights that are legal – and that includes a white anchor light on a pile the right height to give you 360 degree visibility. The emergence of LED technology makes nav lights (and trailer lights) much more reliable and trouble-free. And a quality spotlight is just as useful in a rescue situation as it is finding that missing crab pot.

BATTERIES

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A lot of marine breakdowns are batteryrelated. We load up the cranking battery with so many electronic devices that sometimes they simply

Skippers Mate 5x3

just get flattened. Modern batteries are clever – some lithium ones are smart enough to turn themselves off and save enough charge to start an outboard when they are getting drained to their limit. Regardless, keeping your battery new and charged solves a lot of potential problems.

FUEL SEPARATION AND OPTIMISATION

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Bad fuel, old fuel, the wrong fuel – we’ve seen it all. It doesn’t like water in it, it doesn’t like sitting there for a year and there are products that you can get which can help in all these situations. Today’s outboard motors are a significant

OFFER!!

the

Boating Safety TRAINING AND LICENCING

ESKIES

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Don’t laugh. Plenty of people have been saved – literally – by their floating esky! And of course, they have the added bonus of keeping your food, drinks, bait and catch cool. We’ve even heard the story about an angler paddling to shore holding on to his floating camera box.

FIRST-AID KITS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Do you have one on board? Is it fully stocked? DO you know how to use what’s in it? Is it in a waterproof container?

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Of course, the best way to be fully prepared is to have the correct training. From obtaining your boat licence to marine radios to first-aid courses, you’ll be much more prepared to deal with a nasty situation if you have the confidence of experts teaching you how it should be done. In the following pages, there’s a selection of relevant products that you may want to know about. They may save your life one day.

RESCUE LASER FLARES “One of THE BEST night signals invented”

-US Navy Aviation Survival Gear Field Test Report

• Non-hazardous • Lasts up to 2400 times longer than pyrotechnic flares

TO ORDER PHONE: (02) 9700 0233 or email: sales@sosmarine.com.au

www.sosmarine.com

“Your tool for pure Fuel”

REMOVES

financial investment and in these modern times extending engine life, improving efficiency and improving performance is becoming more important. For too long marine outboards have relied on basic fuel filtration. As any outboard mechanic will testify, finer particles and water emulsion will evade the capabilities of basic filtration, exposing the engine to accelerated wear which contributes to loss of power and loss of economy. A dedicated waterseparating fuel filter

assembly is the best way to ensure the right fuel quality is delivered to your outboard motor all the time, and a clear inspection bowl helps you monitor the overall quality of the fuel coming from your tank. Also, a funnel that can separate, instantly, a litre of fuel from a litre of water might seem expensive, but wait till you need it. You’ll want to marry it.

JUMP STARTERS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A pocket-sized jumpstarter in the glove box is a great way to treat the

symptoms of bad battery management. Push a button, hook it up and presto: outboard started. You can also use them to charge your phones and other devices.

INSURANCE/ GEAR PROTECTION

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

In worst-case-scenario, you want to know that your pride and joy is covered. Insurance might seem painful – until you need it. There are more and more players moving into the

marine market and it pays to check out the fine print. What will they do for you when all goes to hell? Do a bit of reading and find out.

• Water • Dirt • Sand • Rust and debris Portable, self cleaning, static free, no replacement parts

www.mrfunnelaustralia.com.au 2 PERSON LIFE RAFT

ANCHORS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

If you’re having dramas near a river bar on the outgoing tide, then you’ll want to make sure that you’ve got the right anchor for the job. It needs to be able to stop your craft from drifting in several knots of nasty chop and current. Does yours fit the bill right now? Be honest.

• Compact • Easy to handle • A must have safety accessory

TO ORDER PHONE: (02) 9700 0233 or email: sales@sosmarine.com.au

www.sosmarine.com

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We conduct training workshops from the following locations: Sydney Metro, Windsor, Woy Woy, Cardiff, Raymond Terrace, Taree, Maitland, Mudgee, Merimbula, Coffs Harbour and other locations by arrangement.

Bookings essential | Freecall 1300 302 123 NSW FISHING & INDUSTRY TRAINING COMMITTEE LTD TRADING AS MARITIME & SAFETY TRAINING NSW (ACN 002 693 291)

www.powerboating.com.au NSW Maritime Accredited Training Provider.

PORTABLE EMERGENCY POWER PACK

THE SMALLEST MOST POWERFUL JUMPSTART PACK IN ITS CLASS

ONLY

4.8kg

have one! 1300 136 413 Every boat shouldwww.superminibooster.com SEPTEMBER 2014

Boating Safety  GME EPIRBS SRP

399



GME EPIRBS

Laser Flares SRPF $149.90

In both the commercial marine and recreational environments, EPIRBs are an essential safety device. They are often the only means to alert rescue authorities in a life threatening situation so it’s critical that before heading out for a day’s fishing you check that this indispensable piece of life-saving equipment is in good working order. Firstly check the battery hasn’t expired. The expiry date is clearly indicated on the side of the EPIRB. Beacon manufacturers around the world strongly suggest that their EPIRBs are tested on a monthly basis. To test a GME EPIRB vatch the video by scanning the QR code to the left. If you have any concerns regarding the test result or the integrity of your EPIRB, immediately contact your marine electronics supplier for advice. If you’re in the market for a new EPIRB, consider upgrading to a GPS-equipped model. GPS-equipped EPIRBs provide significant advantages including emergency signal detection within minutes and position accuracy of around 100m. Authorities will be able to determine your location faster and reach you sooner. It could save your life. To view the full GME range of EPIRBS log onto www.gme.net.au.

WaterScreen Nano Filter SRPF $59.00 3

Boat and PWC Courses SRPF $65.00

SRPF $29.99

Mini Jump Starter SRP

SEPTEMBER 2014

144.95 6

LASER Flares

Rescue Laser Flares are a worthy addition to your pyrotechnic kit. The Greatland’s Rescue Lasers (from RRP $149.90) are available at SOS Marine, and are designed to signal in an emergency by creating a line of light. Point the compact Rescue Laser Flare at a wall and you’ll see a short line. Point and slowly sweep it toward a passing boat or aircraft and the line is 3.600ft high (1097.28m) at 17km, appearing as a brilliant flash of light. Best of all, Rescue Lasers last for hours, are environmentally safe, and there is no fire hazard where pyrotechnic flares burn for 40 seconds. The Rescue Laser Flare can also be used to detect reflective material on lifejackets, channel markers, and other objects up to 1.7km away. When the laser line is scanned over any reflective element it produces a bright flash of light. SOS Marine has pioneered marine safety equipment for over 30 years and supplies safety equipment to 12 defence forces world-wide. For more information visit www. sosmarine.com or email sales@ sosmarine.com.au.

Mr Funnel

GME EPIRBS

WATERSCREEN Nano Filter

WaterScreen specialises in marine fuel filters. Their expertise has resulted in them becoming a leading manufacturer of premium marine fuel filters and a number one choice of waterseparating fuel filter for your outboard motor. WaterScreen’s latest innovation is the Nano fuel filter assembly. The fuel flow through the Nano is similar to that of the larger WaterScreen filter assemblies. The Nano will separate water on the run, making the Nano unique in the market. Other small filters will filter particles and yet fail to separate the water out, relying on gravity assistance or sedimentation to get the water out of the system. The Nano opens the way to class-leading filtration for all boats. Not only does it fit into smaller spaces, but it makes for a better looking and neater installation. The Nano’s exclusive, high-tech 10 micron filter media technology is specifically designed for today’s complex fuel blends. The fuel filter grade offers higher flow characteristics and efficiencies, better water separation and improved dirt holding capacity. This media protects your engine against the dangers of unwanted particle

contaminants in the highly-tuned tolerances of the fuel system, which contribute to a loss of power, economy, and accelerated engine wear. WaterScreen delivers optimum protection and optimum performance. Check out all the specs at www. marinewarehouse.com.au/waterscreen.

BOAT And PWC Courses

Maritime and Safety Training NSW is recognised by NSW Roads and Maritime Services as an accredited training provider. The course takes three to four hours. When you have successfully completed a comprehensive General Boat and/or PWC (jetski) safety training program you will be awarded a Certificate of Successful Completion. Presentation of your certificate along with the licence fee and completed logbook to NSW Roads and Maritime qualifies you for a General Boat or PWC (jetski) licence. The General Boat Licence seminar and test is $95 for adults, $75 for a Young Adult Licence (12 – 15 years old) and $75 for pension card holders. On-board practical training is $125. A PWC Licence seminar and test is $65. For more info visit www.powerboating. com.au/courses/boat-jetski-course or call 1300 302 123.

MR FUNNEL

When you’re next re-fuelling your boat, ask yourself this: how safe is the fuel and will it offer you and your crew a safe return? Dirt and water are practically unavoidable in stored fuel in Australia, causing components like filters to become clogged, decreasing combustion efficiency and causing engine shutdown or system failure. Mr Funnel products can save you thousands of dollars in repair bills by catching fuel contaminants like water and debris BEFORE they enter your fuel tank. Many articles have been written about ethanol, which likes to absorb water. Take away the water and you’ll eliminate the chance of damage to your engine. Mr Funnel products are self-cleaning and have no replacement parts. They come in four sizes and can be used for petrol, diesel, two-stroke, kerosene and any other hydrocarbons. Each size has a specific flow rate for the job at hand. The black model is carbon injected when moulded to mitigate against static build up during the fuelling process, while the tough stainless steel filter mesh is coated with Teflon, preventing contaminants obstructing the flow while fuelling. Log onto mrfunnelaustralia.com.au to view the entire product range.

Even Smaller MINI JUMP STARTER

Weighing in at only 210 grams, the latest version of the popular Mini Jump Starter – the PowerSLIM is small and light enough to store in the smallest nook and cranny in the boat. Pushing out 300 cold cranking amps of power, though, it’ll jump start motors up to 5 litre V8s. This means that there’s virtually no outboard that it won’t kick to life when your battery dies. Smaller and lighter than the original Mini Jump Starter PowerBLOCK, the unit features a USB port and is supplied with a multifunction squid-style cable array that will charge anything from smart phones to laptops. Available in four colours, the Mini Jump Starter PowerSLIM costs $144.95 with free shipping from www.minijumpstarter. com - FMG.

IS YOUR EPIRB DUE TO BE REPL ACED?

Prepare for the extreme with GME, because your life could depend on it

1300 463 463

gme.net.au

M355G

Digital EPIRBs have been around for quite some time now, and many are about to reach their expiration date. So next time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out on your boat, double check the expiration date of your EPIRB. If it has expired, or is approaching expiration, contact your local Authorised GME Dealer and discuss options for replacement, including updating to the latest GPS equipped model from GME. With a GPS equipped EPIRB, you will be located faster, and rescue authorities will be able to reach you sooner. It could save your life.

Boating Safety 1 EVIE N150 SRP

69.95 1

Super Mini Booster SRP

The EVIE N150 automatic inflatable lifejacket is light and simple to wear and doesn’t restrict movement. You can enjoy your fishing and at the same time be safer and more visible. Once activated, the reflective tape can be seen from a considerable distance away, especially at night under spotlight. The EVIE can also be activated manually via a pullchord and comes with a rescue whistle. For all-day wear, the EVIE includes a soft neck protector avoiding the irritation of nylon rub. An additional feature of this lifejacket is a clear plastic pocket so that you can easily slip in a label with your vessel’s name and registration. The recommended retail price is $69.95 and you can find out more at www.skippersmate.com.au.

299.95 2

2 RescueMe PLB1 SRP

Jaunt Safety Gear Bag SRP

SOS Raft Life SRPF

EVIE Inflatable PFD

1499

250.00 5

399

Imagine being out from port and your batteries run flat? What do you do? To get you out of trouble, the answer is simple: you have a portable emergency power pack, the Super Mini Booster, on your boat at all times. The Super Mini Booster is the smallest, most powerful jump start pack in its class, weighing only 4.8kg. Delivering 1200 amps instantaneously giving you 400 CCA cranking when needed it to get you out of trouble. With the ability to start engines up to 7.0L V8 petrol and 4.5L diesel 12V engines, your boat’s cranking battery is no challenge at all to the Super Mini Booster. This little unit comes complete with a low charge warning light, two super bright LEDs and a 12V auxiliary outlet that provides 12V/80W to charge mobile phones, run motorised 12V reels and trailer winches, spot lights, fridge freezers, plus power when you need it. The RRP is $299.95 and more info is available at www.superminibooster.com (to become a recommended stockist, contact Steve Moore on 1300 136 413).

3 4

Super MINI BOOSTER

RESCUEME PLB1 Locator

Easy to use and 30% smaller than other personal locator beacons (PLB), the rescueME PLB1 is suitable for a range of activities and will provide a level of safety unparalleled in its field. The rescueME PLB1 easily fits into a lifejacket and has a retractable antenna

making the package non-obtrusive. A 7 year battery life is supported by a 7 year warranty giving you longevity when you need it. A 1 candela strobe light makes location easy while the 66 channel GPS receiver means you are always going to be located, wherever you may find yourself in need of help. Wherever you are at sea or on land, the rescueME PLB1 provides the reassurance that emergency services can be alerted by the press of a button. Simple and effective. RRP: $399 www.allsat.com.au

SOS 2 Person Life Raft

SOS Marine has designed an ultra-light SOS 2 Person Life Raft that ‘bridges the gap’ by offering all the boaters travelling alone or with one other person an easier system to use in a person overboard situation. It is easier to handle and throw by man, women and child in an emergency situation. Often the existing 4 person rafts are too heavy and cumbersome for a couple to move into position when the need arises. The SOS 2 Person life raft is compact in size (500x350x110mm) weighs around (7.5kg/16lbs). The life raft is packed in a high visibility orange valise. It is easier to maintain with much smaller servicing costs. It has and easy-to use boarding platform and a thermally insulated floor which can also reflect to search and rescue teams. It can be stowed in the smallest of spaces on every boat. More information: www. sosmarine.com

JAUNT Safety Gear Bag

The Jaunt safety gear bag contains a comprehensive collection of all the safety gear you require for recreational boating, all in one easy to grab gear bag. The gear bag is perfect for trailerable boats, allowing you to conveniently remove your safety gear for storage when required. The safety pack includes, 4 Jaunt Level 100 PFDs, 2 paddles (not shown), current inshore flare kit, V sheet, signal mirror, waterproof torch with batteries and of course, the Jaunt Gear bag. The weatherproof Jaunt gear bag is a great traveller, it features an insulated cooler at one end, vented mesh pouch as well as a wet gear pouch and a pen and phone holder. Shoulder and hand straps make it a perfect overnighter/travel bag. More Information: www. marinewarehouse.com.au. - MW.

CALL SALES 024 297 5156 ww w.mini jumpsta rt er.com 86

SEPTEMBER 2014

What’s new boating

TOURNAMENT AMM 7800

The Tournament 7800 is AMM’s latest 7.8m rig, designed by Barton Thomas. With features including a separate toilet and shower cubicle; heat insulation, exceptional cabin sound insulation; a fresh, hot water system; a fridge freezer running on solar panels, the boat was launched with twin 200hp Yamaha G series outboards fed from a fuel capacity of 750L. The Tournament 7800 has a beam of 2.5m and a 20° deadrise, and achieves a premium ride with outstanding stability at rest. The cabin and helm are located 800mm further aft than in a similar sister ship, removing any hint of the dominant ‘nose down’ attitude prevalent on many deep vee plate boats where the cabin has been pushed too far forward. The greater lift in the bow sees the Tournament rising more readily to meet the faces of pressure waves. The price ranges from around $118K to $225K depending on the level of customisation, and specs are available at australianmastermarine.com.au. – AMM

COMPACT RESCUEME EPIRB

Ocean Signal has introduced the world’s most compact EPIRB, the Category/ Class 3 rescueME EPIRB1, which features a 30% reduction in size compared to other EPIRBs. The new rescueME EPIRB1 measures 178mm (height with antenna stowed) by 89mm and weighs 422g. It’s manually activated and can be easily retained within its manual release bracket or placed in an emergency grab-bag or life raft. A retractable antenna provides maximum protection and reduced outline for stowage and is deployed with a gentle pull, using one hand if necessary. A protective tab over the operating keys prevents inadvertent activation. The rescueME communicates your location in three ways – the designated 406MHz Cospas-Sarsat satellite system with position provided by a 66-channel GPS, a 121.5MHz homing beacon, plus two high brightness strobes. Operating within a temp range of -20°C and +55°C, it will transmit for 48 hours. It has a 10-year battery life and is backed by a 5-year warranty. For more info visit www.allsat. com.au. – OS

BAR CRUSHER HTP

Bar Crusher has launched its new Hard Top Pilothouse (HTP) series of offshore Fishing Weapons. Incorporating three models – 670HTP, 730HTP and 780HTP – this series offers the ultimate in protection from the weather, as well as the opportunity to stay overnight, with fully-enclosed cabins, toilets and other comforts. The flagship 780HTP has plenty of space to fight and handle big fish; a fully-welded and sealed, self-draining checkerplate deck with scuppers; alloy rod holders; good-sized baitboard; transom livebait tank; deck wash; sizeable kill tank; tackle storage; leader dispenser; and more. The flexible layout can be changed in minutes, from a functional fishing machine to a dining layout for the evening. The fully-lined cabin has comfortable V-berth, LED lighting, long storage shelves and a plumbed toilet under the centre cushions. The HTP series comes on a customdesigned trailer, and the Bar Catch system allows for single-handed launch and retrieve. For more info visit www.barcrusher.com. au. – BCB

MINN-KOTA 55LB POWERDRIVE

With the increasing popularity of deep V boats with higher freeboard being fitted with Minn-Kota electric motors, MinnKota has responded by introducing a 54” shaft. Replacing the previous 601450 and 601484 models, the Minn-Kota Saltwater PowerDrive 55lb, 54” SP motor (RT 55SP) is supplied standard with full function foot pedal, giving the user accurate control, power and steerage. This motor provides optimised saltwater performance with Riptide SP’s re-engineered electric steer control, and new advanced deploy-assist lever for easy operation. Features include: Digital Maximizer - up to five times longer run time on a single charge; Stainless Steel Hardware - maximum durability and corrosion resistance; Sacrificial Anode - attaches to prop hub, eliminates corrosion on other metallic components and Riptide trolling motors; Indestructible Composite Shaft - stronger then steel, flexes on impact, will not break, kink or corrode, guaranteed for life; and Fully Encapsulated Electronics - protects electrical components from the saltwater environment. More info is available at www.bla.com.au. – BLA

COLOUR SOUNDER <$150

The most affordable colour fishfinder ever introduced, the new Lowrance Elite-3x includes a dual-frequency 83/200kHz Broadband Sounder transducer and features an LED-backlit display with detailed 240x360-pixel resolution that’s easy to see in full sunlight from wide viewing angles. The Elite-3x allows anglers to quickly and easily identify fish targets, bottom contour, structure detail, bottom hardness, thermoclines and more. Offering selectable dual-frequency operation to maximize the view beneath a boat, 83 kHz sonar provides up to 60° of conical coverage, while 200 kHz sonar provides up to 20° of coverage for enhanced fish-target separation and lure-tracking. The Lowrance Skimmer transducer, included with the Elite-3x, can track bottom at speeds up to 75mph, and has a built-in water temperature sensor. Protected by a one-year limited warranty and the Lowrance Advantage Service program, the Elite-3x fishfinder is priced at $149 in Australia. For more info visit www.lowrance.com. – Navico

4 5

STACER 509 SEA RUNNER

Stacer’s new Sea Runner Range includes three models – the 509, 539 and 579 – all featuring a walk around cabin. Built tough, the popular 509 Sea Runner features 3mm bottomsides, and rated to 115hp this cabin is made for cruising through bays, lakes and estuaries. With room for up to seven people, it has a folding rear lounge as standard and a 77L underfloor fuel tank. Options include a bimini, ski pole, live bait tank, sounder, vinyl wraps, ski hooks, a mega cutting board, sound system, berley bucket, rocket launchers and a twin battery box and switch. The 509 Sea Runner is available as a Ready 2 Go Package complete with a boat, motor, trailer and a 3-year limited factory warranty. For more info visit www.stacer. com.au. – Stacer

6 SEPTEMBER 2014

Award-winning Elm Cottages BATLOW

Wayne Dubois waynedubois@westnet.com.au

Elm Cottages is one of those magical places that feels like another world, making you forget about work and stress. Losing yourself in the moment here is quite easy. The cottages are nestled up in the majestic Goobragandra Valley overlooking the fish-rich Goobragandra River, and they’re are spread out over the privately run 62-acre farm. There are four totally unique, pet-friendly, fully self-contained cottages to choose from, and because they are all so warm and cosy it’s very hard to choose which one to stay in. Getting to Elm Cottages is very easy; the property is only 14km and two turns from the medium-sized township of Tumut. Tumut has everything any visitor could need, from major grocery stores and tackle shops to marine outlets and everything in between. You will certainly know when you hit the Elm Cottages property as you are greeted by farm stock and wildlife that will blow the mind of any visiting city kid (and I’m sure the odd country kid as well). When I last visited the sheep had just given birth and there were lots of cute little lambies running around in amongst the cows, horses and other animals. We also spotted wallabies, rabbits, stacks of kangaroos, a fox and a wombat – and I haven’t even started on abundance of bird life in the area.

size and its layout. No matter which one you stay in, the views overlooking the river and up the valley are spectacular to say the least.

and a beautiful garden. This cottage looks amazing all year round but it is especially beautiful in autumn as some of the trees throw off dark burgundies, bright yellows and

handy for parents with slightly older kids, as Mum and Dad could either send the kids to the smaller cabin or head out there themselves for their own bit of privacy.

All of the cottages have massive open living areas. EXCITE FAIR On Saturday 15 November from 10am-4pm Elm Cottage will be holding the ‘Excite’ spring mountain fair. Elm Cottages turns 10 in 2014 and would like to not only showcase what the lovely farm and cottages have to offer but also showcase everything that is exciting about the Snowy mountains in spring. There will be a host of beautiful fresh produce, gourmet delights, cool climate wines, a farmers market, family picnic areas, cooking demos with celebrity chefs, trout fishing demos, bush tucker tastings around the campfire, indigenous activities and education from National Park guides, stockman displays, children’s activities and much more. Excite sounds like a great day and would be a great way to check out what Elm Cottages has to offer whilst enjoying a great day out. To find out more about Excite and/or the Cottages check out the website at www.elmcottage.com.au.

This cottage has a fully lockable backyard for your pets, which comes in very handy whist you are off fishing, bush walking, 4WDing, shopping or touring. River Gum River Gum is the next biggest cottage on the property

The author’s other half Sharon with a big brown trout caught in the Goobragandra River just upstream of the Elm Cottages property. There are good numbers of small fish in this river as well. and has the capacity to easily sleep six people. This cottage has three massive rooms with queen and king sized beds leading out onto the huge balcony. Amazingly there are

also three bathrooms which I’m sure come in handy with bigger families. This cottage has full reverse cycle air-conditioning and boasts a large dog-safe balcony with

The views from the balconies are to die for, especially the sunsets, and they alone would warrant a visit to this special place in the world. On top of the amazing wildlife and fishing, the cottages themselves are some of the best I have ever stayed in. Having stayed in hundreds of cabins and cottages over the years, this is a pretty big call. Each cottage is unique in its location, its 88

SEPTEMBER 2014

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS River’s Edge River’s Edge is the name of the first and biggest cottage, and it’s 100 years old. Amazingly, this cottage is only 18m from the river’s edge and it is surrounded by 100-year-old elm trees

magnificent deep oranges as they start to shed their leaves. It makes for a stunningly beautiful backdrop. This cottage can easily host up to seven people, and on top of its three spacious rooms it also has its own small cabin equipped with a queen size bed. This could be very

Top: With bedrooms like this it’s lucky there is so much to do in the area, otherwise it would be difficult getting out of these super comfy beds. Bottom: All cottages are fully self contained with well equipped kitchen and laundry facilities.

180° uninterrupted views of the river, hills and valley. Red Gum Red Gum is the king of luxury with its two gigantic rooms. The master bedroom houses an elegant, enormous king size bed with adjoining bathroom with spa bath. That’s right, a spa bath! The second room provides two king single beds and it also has its own en suite, and both rooms have sliding doors leading onto the balcony. Speaking of the balcony, it boasts a 180° un-interrupted view of the river, the mountains and the valley. This cottage not only has a lockable balcony but also a large lockable yard for pets as well. Blue Gum Last but certainly not least, Blue Gum is the ideal cottage for small families and couples. It is a very spacious two bedroom, one bathroom cottage, and the owners told me it has the best kitchen view in regional Australia. After taking a look myself I was inclined to agree with them, and I recommend checking it out yourself to make your own decision.

As well as great trout fishing, there is some sensational native fishing to be had in the area with big cod and yellas up at Blowering. The nearby Murrumbidgee has these fish as well as the vulnerable trout cod like this massive model. ATTRACTIONS As a mad keen fisho I find the only drama with this place is when you are sipping that beverage on one of the balconies late of an afternoon trying to unwind and you notice trout starting to rise in the river below. If you’re like me, this can

FISHING IN THE AREA TROUT The Goobragandra River, both on the Elm Cottages property and above and below, offers sensational rainbow and brown trout fishing. As well as good numbers of fish, there are some real trophy specimens to be encountered as well. I currently hold the ANSA ‘Length only’ rainbow trout record fish and I caught this fish in the Goobragandra River just above the Elm Cottages property, so there are certainly big fish about at times. Other notable trout locations nearby include the infamous Tumut Rver, which is literally teeming with both rainbow and brown trout. There is also an abundance of small trout streams in the area that hold good to very good numbers of fish, including the Nimbo Creek, Yarrongobilly Creek, Gilmore Creek, Adelong Creek and Jounama Creek to name but a few. There are also plenty of trout lakes within a short drive of the cottages, including Jounama Dam, Talbingo Dam, Tantangra Dam, 3 Mile Dam and Lake Eucumbene. So no matter what time of the year you stay there will be a trout option of some sort to choose from, even if the season is closed on the creeks and rivers. NATIVES If natives are more your thing, don’t despair – there are just as many native options within a short drive as well. One of Australia’s freshwater icons, Blowering Dam, is only just up the road and holds good numbers of Murray cod and golden perch which attain enormous sizes at times. This lake is also full of redfin which is always good as a back-up when nothing else is biting. Jounama Dam just above Blowering Dam is not renowned for its native fishing but it does hold good numbers of both Murray cod and golden perch, and it also has good sized trout and redfin. The Murrumbidgee River is also within a short scenic drive from the cottages and offers some sensational Murray cod and golden perch fishing with the outside chance of hooking one of the highly valued and vulnerable trout cod. Like the other cottages that are nestled up on top of the hill, Blue Gum’s 180° uninterrupted views from its balcony are to die for, especially at sunset. Kicking back after a big day or simply relaxing doesn’t get much better than on these balconies.

make it hard to finish a beverage and unwind! As an angler this would be the only drama you could possibly have with the area, and if that’s the worst of your worries it’s not a bad problem to have. All rooms have well

equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, BBQs, huge TVs, DVD players and free Wi-Fi and Foxtel options. All cottages are pet friendly and safe with either lockable balconies and or lockable yards, so you won’t need to leave your favourite pet behind when you visit. That was a quick run-down on the cottages but trust me – it doesn’t even come close to expressing how nice these cottages really are. I strongly recommend you get onto the Elm website and take a look at the cottages individually. The site provides detailed descriptions along with a heap of top quality pictures of the rooms so that you can get a pretty good feel of what they are really like. The site also has a heap of info on other attractions in the area, as there’s more on offer than just sensational fishing. There are countless scenic drives and rides, a heap of different walks you can do from small scenic walks all the way through to massive treks, an unbelievable amount of 4WDing treks, and a heap of different cave, historic and lookout tours you can do – and that’s just scratching the surface of what’s on offer in the area. Other notable special events and festivals are on the site as well so you can plan your entire trip well ahead of time. It sure makes life easy. CONCLUSION On top of the kind words and reviews written and spoken about Elm cottages from many other newspapers, magazines and even TV shows, they have also won countless tourism and accommodation awards which helps to prove just how good this place really is. The views from the balconies, especially at sunset, are as gorgeous as you are ever likely to see, and this alone would warrant a visit. From an angler’s point of view there are so many fishing options nearby that it wouldn’t matter what time of the year you stayed as there – there would always be a good fishing option somewhere close by. However, if you

specifically want to fish the kilometres of Goobragandra River on the property you will have to visit during the trout season between the long weekend in October and the long weekend in June. Before I finish I must mention the owners of this magnificent set-up, Dave and Deb Sheldon, are two of the friendliest, nicest people you are ever likely to meet. On top of being very welcoming and full of information they totally understand and respect people’s privacy. So as you can see, this

Top: River’s Edge cottage doesn’t have the views that the other cottages have but it makes up for it with its proximity to the river and beautiful gardens. Bottom: The cottages on the hill are still very close to the river so you won’t have to venture too far to go fishing. unique set-up and its location has so much to offer and not just to the keen fisho, so getting the family to agree on

a trip should be no dramas at all. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your stay there as much as I enjoyed mine.

TUMUT

Luxury Pet Friendly Accommodation

www.elmcottage.com.au Ph: David & Deb 02 6947 5818 Email: info@elmcottage.com.au Little River Rd, Tumut NSW 2720 SEPTEMBER 2014

Mike and Moose tame the Macleay River The final mid round of the Gamakatsu Team Series (GTS) for 2014, held at South West Rocks on August 4, started off with great expectations of this new venue. The 18 teams and 4 kayakers had mixed hopes after the pre-fish; some were very confident in finding the fish and others were still thinking of what to do in the morning! The water was very clear and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, so anglers were expecting the fish to be spooked easily. GTS as usual had heaps of giveaways for anglers and the public alike, and on top of the regular prizes they decided to up the ante and provide a Lowrance HDS7 Touch sounder to a lucky draw winner. It was won by team Berkley/C’ultiva who couldn’t believe their luck, but back to the results… The winning team, Carpet Court/Cranka Lures (Mike Nelson and Grant Manusu), caught a fantastic bag of 4.01kg and were also able to claim the biggest bream of the day, weighing in a huge 1.29kg. The team had few days of pre fishing to get to know the area as they hadn’t been

Team Berkley/C’ultiva, as well as getting the runner-up prize pack, were stoked with this lucky draw prize of a Lowrance HDS7 Touch sounder. there before, and as it turns out those few days were definitely not wasted – they picked up a little area that no one else seemed to get on the day. While being next to a few other boats at the mouth, they found

The winning team was Carpet Court/Cranka Lures consisting of Mike Nelson and Grant Manusu, who caught a fantastic bag of 4.01kg.

BOATER RESULTS 1 2 3 4 5

Team...................................... Anglers.............................................. Quantity.......Big Bream.........Total Weight Carpet Court/Cranka Lures... Mike Nelson, Grant Manusu.............. 5...................1.29.............................. 4.01 Berkley/C’ultiva...................... Vaughn Lewis, Todd Riches.............. 5...................0................................... 3.12 Ecogear/Yamatoyo Taree....... Rodney O’Sullivan, Zac O’Sullivan.... 5...................0.8................................ 2.91 Millerods/Shimano................. Andrew Howard, Peter Beeton.......... 5...................0................................... 2.83 Procraft.................................. Darren Seckold, Kyle Branch............ 5...................0................................... 2.79 KAYAK RESULTS

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Tabs 4.85 Territory Pro 2006 75 E-Tec with 75 hrs, 55lb iPilot, Lowrance HDS5 x 2, travel cover. .............................................. VIC. $24,900

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Angler........................ Quantity........Weight............ Big Bream..........Total Weight Bob Walters............... 1....................0.52................ 0..................................... 0.52 Stephen Jansson...... 0....................0..................... 0.......................................... 0 Michelle Carmody..... 0....................0..................... 0.......................................... 0 Scott Carmody.......... 0....................0..................... 0.......................................... 0

a small rise on the bottom and found that there were eddies in the water column and the larger fish were hiding in this small little bottom change. Mike and Grant used soft plastics and made sure that the jigheads were heavy enough to get down before the current could take the lure away from where the fish were feeding in their little honey hole. This was the most important part of their tactic which paid off and claimed them a total of $1200 in cash and prizes. On top of the very large bag with their smallest fish being 32cm to the fork, their kicker fish was a cracker, weighing in at a cracking 1.29kg. The Big Bream also got them a Samurai Reaction rod. Team Berkley/C’ultiva, consisting of Vaughn Lewis and Todd Riches, came in second place with another great bag of 3.12kg. The boys earned over $700 worth of cash and prizes, as well as the lucky draw of the Lowrance sounder, and they were two very happy guys! The team started off

on the walls throwing fat grub style plastics on 1/6oz and 1/8oz jigheads. This landed them a lot of fish and had them a bag of fish within the first hour of the tournament. The bite went quiet so they decided to head up to Jerseyville. After ultra clear water and not many fish they decided to come back to the walls at the mouth of the river in the dirtier water with the run-out tide, where they picked up five or six upgrades at the end of the session that topped off their day. It was a very soft bite and the team found that it was very important to match the jighead size with the speed of the tide. The team were using Pflueger Patriarch rods and reels with 3lb leader on their braid. Coming in third place with another impressive bag of 2.91kg was team Ecogear/Yamatoyo Taree. Rodney O’Sullivan and Zac O’Sullivan decided to go down to the front to the walls first thing in the morning gradually catching their bag. They used Bream Prawns in the king prawn

colour and were matching jighead sizes to the current to make sure they made it down far enough to where the fish were biting. They found that using the Gamakatsu single lure hooks for stringers ended up being key in catching a lot of their fish. The kayakers today couldn’t have asked for better weather to be out on the water, but in the end it was too good and too clear. Bob Walters took out the field by catching the only fish of the day weighing 0.51kg. He caught it at the abandoned oyster racks close to the start using an Atomic Crank 38 deep in muddy prawn colour, and found that using light leader was key as the water was so clear. Lots of members of public came for the weigh-in and it made for a fun time with everyone happy with the day’s results. A big thank you goes out to the sponsors, especially Gamakatsu and the round sponsor Lowrance. For more information visit fishingcomps.com.au/ gts/. - GTS

Lake Hume Fishing Classic

FISHING FILL-ITS

It is on again, the 11th Lake Hume Fishing Classic proudly sponsored by Leigh Martin Marine and Mercury, and will be held on the weekend of 1-2 November. A total of 439 anglers entered last year’s event and they weighed over 700 fish between them. With 150 golden perch presented for measuring and released alive, this event is fast becoming a premier event for this species. The competition is held on the picturesque Lake Hume, and the event is open to all ages. The centre for all activities is the Lake Hume Tourist Park under the big marquee. The boundaries for the event are the confines of Lake Hume from the Wymah ferry (nearest weigh station is the Holbrook boat club on the Murray arm) and the Tallangatta narrows on the Mitta arm (nearest weigh station is at Ludlow’s reserve). Entry for the 2014 classic is $65 for adults and $25 for juniors. Juniors must be under 15yo on the 31 October 2014. The cost of entry for a team is $40 of up to 4 anglers. All entries received and postmarked by the 24 October 2014 will go into an early

Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, today introduced 12 new recruits who will boost the force of Department of Primary Industries (DPI) fisheries officers patrolling NSW inland and coastal waters. Ms Hodgkinson said fisheries officers play a vital role in the community to protect our precious aquatic natural resources. “These new fisheries officers will work hard to ensure all fishers follow the rules to protect fisheries for the future by conducting regular patrols and inspections of recreational and commercial fishing activity,” Ms Hodgkinson said. “The officers will also play an advisory role to provide advice and information to fishing clubs, schools and community groups.” Ms Hodgkinson said the first-year fisheries officers have now started an intensive on-the-job 12 month training program. “The officers will conduct practical fieldwork and undertake regular assessments,” Ms Hodgkinson said. “The officers will gain a wide

Plenty of prizes are on offer at the Lake Hume Classic and there’s plenty of fish to catch, too! bird draw for $500 worth of fishing gear. Entry in the event includes a meal on Saturday night and a sausage sizzle on the Sunday at presentation; all entrants also receive a Leigh Martin Marine Mercury Lake Hume Fishing Classic stubby holder and an information pack. Junior and female entrants get a lure from the lucky lure box. Registration at the event is from 4pm until 8.30pm on Friday the 31 October and from 5am until 11am on Saturday 1 November 2014 sharp at the Lake Hume Tourist Park, in the marquee.

This year’s major prize is again a Quintrex boat with a Mercury outboard on a trailer. In all, prizes totalling over $40,000 are on offer for the competition. All competitors who enter the Leigh Martin Marine Mercury Lake Hume Fishing Classic will go into the draw for the boat, motor and trailer package. There are four fish categories: golden perch (catch and release only), trout, redfin and carp. The greatest number of fish caught by the four members over the two days will determine the team’s event winner. Champion

Angler is based on the number of measurable fish caught, excluding carp, over the two days by an individual angler in both the senior and junior categories. Mystery weights for golden perch on both days will give everyone who weighs a golden perch a chance to win a prize. The Kevin Downey lure wall will be available again this year, simply place a lure on the wall for a chance to win the entire wall. Lures can be new or used (only whole packets of plastics please) and the classic will start the wall off with 10 brand new lures from our sponsors. On the weekend, a Minn Kota motor and swag will be raffled, and drawn. With up to 50 Lucky Door prize draws to be held on Saturday evening, after the evening meal, this promises to be a great weekend of fun for the whole family and a must not miss event. Therefore, get your accommodation booked to avoid missing what will be an excellent weekend. All event merchandise for the 11th Leigh Martin Marine Mercury Lake Hume Classic is only available through pre-order. For more information, visit the web site at www. lakehumeclassic.com.au. – Lake Hume Classic

TOMAKIN Sports & Social Club Ltd.

New recruits here

range of skills such as safe watercraft handling, fish identification, monitoring of fish catches for legal compliance, checking wholesale and retail fish suppliers and inspecting aquaculture facilities and leases. “All officers will develop a deep understanding of the NSW bag and size limits as well as the appropriate legislation and regulation, to best ensure compliance with fisheries laws.” The first-year fisheries officers will be based across the State, including: • Macquarie Region (Dubbo); • South West Slopes (Tumut); • North Coast (Port Stephens); • Central Coast (Ourimbah); • Sydney North (Wollstonecraft); • Sydney South (San Souci); and • South Coast (Illawarra) Members of the public can help fisheries officers protect NSW waterways by reporting suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536, or online at www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/ compliance/report-illegalactivity. – DPI

It’s got the lot!

w ay in a random dra zes are given aw ckage! Pa at Bo All our major pri n efi Blu ay with a you could walk aw

200,OOO IN GIVEAWAYS

OVER $

2014

FLATHEAD CLASSIC The 21st consecutive year of the Flathead Classic come and join the party!

1ST - 4TH OCTOBER 2014 TOURNAMENT VENUE : GR Thompson Park, Broadwater Parklands, Southport This year for the first time we trial a later fishing finish on the Saturday with a Saturday Night Dinner, presentation and party.

Sign-On, Briefing and Dinner: WEDNESDAY 1st OCTOBER 2014 from 4.30pm Fishing and Dinner: THURSDAY 2nd OCTOBER 2014, FRIDAY 3rd OCTOBER and Saturday 4th Fishing, Dinner and Presentations: SATURDAY 4th OCTOBER 2014 running into the night.

October Long Weekend Tomakin Sports & Social Club Fishing Club Presents

MIGHTY BONANZA Fishing Competition

COME AND HAVE A GREAT ANGLING WEEKEND FAMILIES WELCOME AT A SPECIAL RATE

Thousands of Dollars in Prizes

This once a year competition has been running for over 33 years, half of all prizes go to the Junior section.

DOUG BURTS

“TAKE A KID FISHING” THIS IS A 2 DAY COMPETITION ON THE OCTOBER LONG WEEKEND.

Entry Seniors Juniors s e Fe

(16yrs and over) (under 16yrs)

$275 $130

Places permitting

Entry forms or online available at

www.flatheadclassic.com.au

Gold Coast Flathead Classic

• Free give-aways for Juniors who do not win a prize. • Weigh-ins are 2pm on Saturday October 4th, and 1pm on Sunday October 5th. • 18 species are eligible in the rock, beach, estuary and bluewater sections. All are welcome and can register at the club on Friday from 4-10pm for the weekend, or after Saturday’s weigh-in for Sunday only. • Club registration can be organised by phone, call John (02) 4471 7653. For further information contact Phil Boneham on (02) 4471 7167 (President) You can also call (02) 4471 8029, leave a message and someone will return your call. A full list of prizes which consist of CASH, RODS and REELS are on the Clubs web site - SEE BELOW

www.tomakinclub.com.au SEPTEMBER 2014

S M SERIE A E R B K a KAYA d by Daiw Presente Will Lee claimed backto-back Queensland State Title wins with victory in the 11th round of the Daiwa-Hobie Kayak BREAM Series on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Compiling an 8/8 fish, 4.11kg limit to secure the win came from behind on the last day (11th) to once again show he’s the man to catch anytime the kayak bream tour comes to Queensland. With light winds on day one, Lee’s plan of attack was to head to the main body of the Nerang River in search of stronger currents and active fish. Once in the Nerang, Lee targeted fish holding tight to the pontoons with a Z-Man 2” Brubz in pumpkinseed rigged on a TT HWS 1/20oz jighead and smeared in Pro-Cure mullet scent. Lee would cast his lure

Lee stakes out and wins up current of the structure and allow the bait to drift deep under the structure. Filling his limit by 9.30am he then changed tack and targeted the larger Gold Coast bream holding on the bridges during the slack tide. This proved fruitful for Lee, upgrading twice and keeping him in the hunt on day two. With his limit in the well, Lee worked his way back to the weigh in with the tide, during his travels he was able to sight better quality

CE 1ST PLA

fish holding on the pontoons near the weigh-in site. “Using my Costa polarized sunglasses, I could see better quality fish holding under the pontoons, but in the calm conditions I could not get my lure in the strike zone without spooking them,” said Lee. With stronger winds predicted for day two, Lee made the decision to spend less time travelling and more time with his lure in the water. Lee targeted

the pontoons close to home focusing most of his attention on pontoons with wind blowing onto them. Lee used his PowerPole Micro Anchor to hold him off the pontoon, this allowed him to line up his cast before skip casting his lure tight to the structure. Lee would cast his lure tight to the structure before allowing it to flutter down the face of the structure. For this work, Lee stayed with his confidence bait from day one a Z-Man 2” Grubz in pumpkinseed rigged on a TT HWS 1/20oz jighead.

Will Lee claimed back-to-back Queensland State Title wins at the Daiwa-Hobie Kayak BREAM Series on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Beechey hits the beach Z-Man 2” Grubz in pumpkinseed rigged on a TT hidden weight 1/120oz jighead.

CE 2ND PLA

Bryce Beechey showed his consistency across changing conditions to take second place with an 8/8 fish,

rigged on a TT HWS 1/60oz jighead. “With the light conditions I kept my presentation as natural as possible, I would cast the lure tight to the structure and rattle the lure keeping it in the strike zone as long as possible,” said Beechey. With the change in conditions Beechey changed his approach, targeting fish

in the wind swept flats in between the pontoons. For this work, Beechey used an Anre’s Alexandra 50s lure in a natural bait fish profile. He would cast his lure tight to the edge before twitching his bait out and allowing its natural sinking flutter to entice the strike. Beechey’s tackle of choice for the

weekend was a Palm’s Pin Wheel rod matched with a Daiwa Fuego reel spooled with 3lb Toray fluorocarbon. “Using straight through fluorocarbon allowed my lures to have a more natural presentation which made all the difference,” said Beechey.

WINNING NOTES

Winning Tackle

Rod: Gary Howard North Fork FW701 Reel: Shimano Stradic FH1000 Line: 2lb Berkley fire line Leader: 3lb Sunline FC Rock leader. Lure: a Z-Man 2” Grubz in pumpkinseed rigged on a TT hidden weight 1/20oz jighead.

Lure Rogan’s 910g Nerang River kicker fish took out the event’s Hogs Breath Boss Hog.

Winning Edge “Having my Power Pole Micro anchor allowed me to hold off the structure and line up the perfect cast, giving me the best chance not to spook the bigger fish” said Lee. TOP 10 NON-BOATERS

HOG’S BREATH BOSS HOG BASS ELECTRIC SERIES

Lure Rogan’s 910g Nerang River kicker fish took out the event’s Hogs Breath Boss Hog. Rogan caught his fish cranking boat hulls with a Zip Baits Khamsin Tiny DR in ghost ebi. HOGS BREATH BOSS HOG PAY TO:

Hogs Breath Boss Hog

FOR THE SUM OF:

Bryce Beechey showed his consistency across changing conditions to take second place with an 8/8 fish, 4.08kg bag.

ABT, PO Box 7196, LOGANHOLME, QLD 4129 Alternatively you can download an entry form from www.abt.org.au At any time you can call ABT on (07) 3387 0888 for help with your entry during business hours. 92

SEPTEMBER 2014

4.08kg bag. On day one Beechey stayed close to home fishing any structure in the Mermaid Waters canal system he felt had fish holding on it. Most of his fish came from fishing tight to the pontoon. “I was getting fish in a number of places but the fish were holding tight to structure,” said Beechey. Beechey’s lure of choice for this was a 2” Z-Man Grubz in motor oil colour

One Hundred Dollars

DATE:

$ 100

Fishing Tournaments bass • bream • barra

TOP 10 KAYAKERS Place Angler

Fish

Weight (kg)

Payout

1 William LEE 2 Bryce BEECHEY 3 Tyson HAYES 4 James HOWARTH 5 Kendall SOO 6 Michael HALLIDAY 7 Jason GARNER 8 Richard ORCHARD 10 Timothy MAAS

8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8 8/8

4.11 4.08 4.00 3.96 3.95 3.83 3.44 3.42 3.38

$800 + Prize Pack $400 + Prize Pack $280 + Prize Pack $240 + Prize Pack $190 + Prize Pack $140 + Prize Pack

For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Lowrance win BETS GF What an absolutely cracking end to a BETS Grand Final and indeed the entire bream series! After a bruising pre-fish that saw strong winds and few fish, no-one would have predicted how the Grand Final would play out on Sunday. Those bold enough to attempt to call the play were leaning towards history repeating itself. One thing we all knew though was that one team would win and another would miss by a whisker. Not only would it be a battle between anglers, it would be a battle between history and the laws of probability. Carrying a hefty bag through to Day Two, Team

Team Lowrance’s Adrian Neoh and Mark Healey, sitting in third place, knew they had to get big fish to have any chance winning. After hitting spots east of the Harbour Bridge on the Saturday, Sunday was to be ‘big fish day’ in spots west of the Bridge. In front of Lowrance on the table were defending champs Team Pflueger Evinrude’s Ross Cannizarro and Alan Loftus, who conversely went east to chase down Simrad’s lead. As the boats returned at 2pm, the general consensus was that the fishing had been even tougher than the first day. Before long it was shaping up to be a battle of the Harbour giants with Simrad, Lowrance,

Top: We’re number one! Adrian Neoh and Mark Healey were elated with their Grand Final victory. Bottom: Runners-up Scott Butler and Guy Struthers from Team Simrad set the bar high; it took something very special to beat their score. Simrad’s Scott Butler and Guy Struthers set the bar supremely high with a massive 4.69kg bag on a day when most teams struggled to find fish. Conditions were good albeit very chilly, and the fishing was arduous at best; teams said the number of fish presented to be weighed was equal to the number of bites they had. The bag was helped along in no small way by two cracker fish, a 1.39kg kicker and a 1.48kg thumper that had a head as wide as your fist. Opening on Day Two, that nearly 1kg lead had put Team Simrad in an enviable position, with other teams knowing the tough fishing was not likely to change any time soon.

Pflueger/Evinrude being joined by Kris Hickson and Daniel Brown of Team Hobie/TT Lures in the hunt. Pflueger/Evinrude dropped away first, as Ross and Alan’s eastern spots didn’t fire in the way they needed. Team Hobie/TT Lures weighed another consistent bag of 3kg which, while not enough to rattle the top spot, looked to have secured third spot. And then there were two. As Team Simrad’s Scott and Guy climbed the stairs is was clear they had another good bag, and after a few tense moments the scales settled at 3.76kg. That meant Team Lowrance needed a mountainous 4.71kg to win something rarely seen in

bream tournaments. There was palpable unease on stage as Scott Towner noted there were four quality fish but a smaller unit that could dash all hopes of victory. The crowd fell silent as the bag gently sat on the scales. A deafening roar signalled that something very special had just happened: the scales settled at 4.84kg and Team Lowrance had won the 2014 Berkley Evinrude Team Series. Not only had they won the battle between anglers they had won the battle between history and probability – after winning the first BETS Final five years ago the pair have been second in every subsequent Grand Final. This time history had to take a back step. With a total weight of 8.59kg Team Lowrance were crowned the 2014 Champions, taking the huge $20,000 winners’ cheque. As a bonus, Adrian and Mark were presented with two specially labelled Duffrods courtesy of custom rod builder Steve Duff, who travelled from Melbourne to be at the Final. Team Simrad’s Scott Butler and Guy Struthers took out the runner-up price of $6000. It was a commendable effort and the pair should be incredibly proud of their achievement, not only in the Final but also over the round stages. It took something very special to surpass their excellent score. Team Hobie/TT Lures’ Kris Hickson and Daniel Brown took third place for the second year running, with a 6.18kg bag. Veterans of the tournament scene, the pair showed their experience and class on a tough arena. The event started at the briefing on Friday night with Mark and Adrian being presented with the PowerPole Team of the Year award by Josh Batterson of Skeeter Boats and Power-Pole. They received a prize from the huge prize pool courtesy of the BETS sponsors, along with the Austackle Big Bream Award of a $250 Austackle Lure Pack presentation to Scott Butler for his 1.48kg cracker, and then received a $20,000 oversized cheque. It was a memorable day for all involved, and it brought the 2014 BETS Bream Series to a close. A huge thanks on behalf of all the BETS anglers to the sponsors small and large who helped make the event possible. Thanks of course to all the hosts and helpers along the way – these events can’t happen without that support. Most of all though, a heartfelt thanks to all the

The moment that astounded everyone: 4.84kg on the scales meant that Team Lowrance had won the 2014 Berkley Evinrude Team Series. anglers who participated over the season. There may be only one first place at the Grand Final but each and everyone of you are absolute champions for the commitment you make. We started the year

looking for some fun. We hope you had some along the way – after all if you’re not having fun you’re not fishing and if you’re not

fishing you’re not having fun! Let’s see what next year brings. Until then, our very best wishes. – The BETS Team made to fit your fugly head From $39.95 + p&h

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SEPTEMBER 2014

SERIES BREAM Yamaha d by Presente

Hickson hones in to win Clarence River

the 28-year-old tournament veteran putting on a dominant display to win the Taree breamer Kris Hickson third stop of the 2014 13 secured victory in the Fishing BREAM Series. Yamaha Clarence River Starting each morning at BREAM Challenge with the trawlers within sight of

the start line, Hickson fished a lightly weighted soft plastic throwing an Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn against and under the boat hulls and working it with a deadstick retrieve. “It was a do nothing retrieve, simply throw it in and let it sink and wait for a fish to eat it,” said Hickson. The early boat attack paid off each day with Hickson putting three fish in the well in quick time. With the boats trawled of all the bream they held, Hickson headed to Collis Wall to finish off his limit and hopefully find a few upgrades. Day one would require a pit stop at the Oyster Channel boat ramp to pick up a set of jumper leads to jumpstart a flat cranking battery in his boat. It was an impromptu stop that saw Kris catch his fourth fish off a nearby pontoon. “I thought why not I’ll have a cast at it when I saw the pontoon. I threw in a Bream Prawn and dead-sticked it and a bream ate it, ” said Hickson. Back at Collis Wall Hickson’s technique once again had a soft approach with the Clarence champ throwing a 2 1/2” Z-Man Grubz rigged on a 1/12oz, size 1, TT jighead and working it with a slow sink and wait retrieve. With his limit in the well each day, Hickson left Colless Wall and headed upstream, spot hoping his way upriver, then turning around and doing the same thing as the clock ticked down towards the end of the session. “I headed up the north arm and hit the bridges and

Kris Hickson showing off some quality Clarence River bream. Photo courtesy of lureandfly.com the banks that experience and the prefish told me held fish,” said Hickson. On day one the approach delivered five upgrades, most coming on the Z-Man Grubz. Day two saw a similar result with Hickson hitting a milk run of spots on the way back. His last two stops would prove the highlights of the day and anchored his bag, and ultimately his victory. “My second last stop was at Hardwood Bridge where I picked up an upgrade. I then heading back down river and made one more stop at a random snag that looked

too good not to hold fish,” said Hickson. Having caught many of his fish on his 3lb straight through outfit, Hickson aired on the side of caution, concerned if he did hook a fish that 3lb wouldn’t be enough to extract a fish from the snag. His thinking was spot on, with a 1.20kg fish eating his OSP Dunk and testing his tackle to its very limits. “It was one of those tournaments where I just seemed to make the right calls. Swapping to my 5lb outfit and pulling that big fish out of the snag was definitely

one of those right calls,” said Hickson. Delivering a 3.68kg bag to the scales on the final day Hickson did it easy in the end turning a deficit into a 1.15kg winning margin. With a spot booked in the 13 Fishing BREAM Grand Final in November, Hickson is excited to be heading to the Hawkesbury River at the end of the year. “The Hawkesbury is a big system with plenty of big fish in it, I can’t wait to get down there and see what it has on offer for us in spring,” said Hickson.

OSP Dunk (alive shrimp)

Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn (mustad seed) 1/40oz, size 1, TT HWS jighead Z-Man Grubz (greasy prawn), 1/12oz, size 1, TT jighead

Thorpe Dives into Second CE 2ND PLA

SEPTEMBER 2014

For event runner-up Anthony Thorpe it was his best result to date on the BREAM tour with the 30-year-old Retail Manager grabbing the lead on day one then stumbling on day two to hand a strong finishing Kris Hickson the event win.

Fishing a deep water plastic approach to catch his fish Thorpe started each day fishing the Yamba breakwall before swapping to the Iluka breakwall later in the session. On the first day, this saw Thorpe fill his bag at Yamba fishing 25-30ft deep water with a jighead and stinger rigged Berkley Gulp Shrimp in pepper prawn colour. The technique involved shaking and sinking the lure down

along the wall and into the path of waiting fish. With his limit, Thorpe switched to the Iluka Breakwall and while he continued to throw the pepper prawn shrimp, it was his beloved Bait Breath Rock n Crab that brought about the undoing of his biggest fish. “The large crustacean pattern drew the bigger bites and I picked up a 37cm and 38cm fish tight to rocks,”

said Thorpe. As the tide eased Thorpe progressively downsized the weight of his jighead to enable the optimum natural presentation of his plastic, starting out with a heavy 1/6oz and eventually dropping to a 1/8oz. The exact location of where he caught them on the wall at Iluka also varied each day, and required Thorpe to adjust his position to stay

on the fish. “The fish were sitting a little wider on the wall at Iluka on the first day than they did on the second day so they were a little easier to hook and get out. This may have been because the light was brighter and the current was stronger on the second day,” said Thorpe. While Iluka produced a series of upgrades on day one, on day two things were a lot harder, especially fishing tighter to the wall. Thorpe hooked up, but rather than landing, was dusted by a series of big fish. With only four fish in his well, and the 5th still yet to come he moved location and headed to Browns Rocks in search of number five. “Browns is always a reliable spot, and I was confident that I could get my fifth fish there, unfortunately it wasn’t to be and I only weighed in four fish,” said Thorpe. With only a 4/5, 2.22kg limit delivered to the scales Thorpe’s 310g day one lead turned into a 1.15kg winning margin for Hickson. “I can’t be too despondent, I picked up a solid cheque ($1,700),

a spot in the grand final, and a new custom-made Duffrod for winning the Duffrods Big Bag (3.77kg) for the tournament,” said a resigned Thorpe.

BREAM SE RIE

S Presented by Yamah a

Pause zone

Sink and wait retrieve

Anthony Thorpe secured second place courtesy of a deep water approach. Photo courtesy of lureandfly.com

WINNING NOTES

Winning Tackle Outfit 1 (soft plastic) Rod: Daiwa 6’8” Infeet Reel: Daiwa Certate 1003 Line: Daiwa 10lb Shinobi Leader: Daiwa 3lb TD fluorocarbon (20 feet long leader) Lures: Z-Man Grubz (greasy prawn), 1/12oz, size 1, TT jighead

Zac Cracks the Win -BOATER 1ST NON

For Taree apprentice boiler maker Zac O’Sullivan it’s been a dream maiden year on the ABT BREAM Series with the 19-year-old breamer claiming a narrow 20g win over Grayson Fong to secure the non-boater title at the Yamaha presented Clarence River event. Fishing with Anthony Thorpe at Yamba and Iluka breakwalls on day one, O’Sullivan fished an Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn in king prawn colour rigged on a jighead fitted with a Gamakatsu Octopus, size 10 stinger hook. “It was important to have that stinger to get the timid fish and bites to

stick, and it was important to adjust the weight of the jighead for the tide and to present the fish with something different,” said O’Sullivan. The approach paid off with O’Sullivan catching his limit, five upgrades and weighing in a 2.81kg bag on day one. Sitting in second place at the end of the day O’Sullivan had high hopes for day two, a day that would see him fish with defending Clarence River champion Mark Lennox. “We started off in the north arm, once again fishing plastics down deep with the tide,” said O’Sullivan. A move down to Yamba to change things up a bit, followed by a move back up the river saw O’Sullivan with his full limit 3 and 1/2 hours into the session.

Outfit 2 (crankbait) Rod: Daiwa 7’6” Infeet Reel: Daiwa Caldia 2000 Line: Daiwa 5lb flurocarbon Lures: OSP Dunk (alive shrimp)

Winning Edge

Filled his limit each day in the lower reaches of Clarence River before heading upriver in search of the bigger fish (upgrades) that he found in the prefish.

BIG Bream

Kris Hickson claimed the Austackle Big Bream Prize with the Clarence champ securing the $500 reward with his 1.2kg fish caught on day two on an OSP Dunk from a snag as he fished on his way back to the event finish line.

Zac O’ Sullivan secured his maiden ABT victory at the Clarence River event. “I had my limit by 10.30am, but that was all I caught,” said O’Sullivan. In the end, five legal

bites were enough, but only just, with O’Sullivan one of the last to weigh-in and he bumped Queenslander

TOP 10 BOATERS

Grayson Fong to second by a mere 20g. With a victory already under his belt in his first

year on the BREAM tour O’Sullivan will be an angler to watch for the future. - ABT

TOP 10 NON-BOATERS

Place Angler

Fish

Weight (kg)

Payout

Place

Angler

Fish

Weight (kg)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10/10 9/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 8/10 10/10 10/10 10/10 10/10

7.14 5.99 5.62 5.21 5.10 5.08 5.04 5.04 4.90 4.62

$4,250 $1,700 $1,400 $1,200 $1,000 $850 $1,000 $650 $550 $500

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Zac O’SULLIVAN Grayson FONG Allan AUSTIN Shaun EGAN Josh CARPENTER Jonathan THOMPSON Clint VOSS Simon JOHNSON Ben LOCKWOOD Taigan HEATH

10/10 10/10 10/10 7/10 6/10 8/10 7/10 6/10 7/10 5/10

4.85 4.83 4.27 3.71 3.46 3.21 3.10 3.07 2.88 2.78

Kristoffer HICKSON Anthony THORPE Warren CARTER James HOWARTH Scott BUTLER Cameron WHITTAM Jamie MCKEOWN Ross LAMOTTE Tom SLATER Tristan TAYLOR

For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Payout Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack Prize Pack

For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au SEPTEMBER 2014

Hobie Bream Series GF location revealed After much speculation, Hobie Cat Australasia is pleased to announce the location of the Grand Final of the 2014 Hobie Kayak Fishing Bream Series, presented by Daiwa. The event is set to take place in the stunning bream fishery of South Yunderup near Mandurah, approximately 70km south of Perth in Western Australia, and will be held on the 22nd and 23rd of November 2014. Predominantly built upon a network of canals at the mouth of the Murray River, South Yunderup has a local population of around 2500 and is a popular retirement location for many Western Australians due to its warm climate, excellent fishing and relative isolation. The competition waterway, situated on the Murray and Serpentine systems, provides an incredibly diverse venue for this year’s grand finalists. From the river systems themselves to the flats of Peel inlet and the extensive network of man-made canals, there is truly going to be something for every style of kayak angler. Simon Goldsmith, tournament director at Australian Bass Tournaments, had this to say about the

competition and location. “The Hobie Kayak Fishing BREAM Series is a truly unique series. Catch and release tournament fishing at its very best, it’s a series that allows anglers to challenge their abilities in a competitive realm and do so on a national stage. With the Grand Final slated for Western Australia, this emphasis on a nation-wide series is on full display. The opportunity to showcase WA’s outstanding bream fishing to anglers from across the country is a very exciting prospect.” The Grand Final will unite the east and west coasts,

battle of wills. Over 50 kayak anglers will descend on the fishery and go head to head, all vying for the top prize! Mathew Williams of Getaway Outdoors said they were thrilled to be hosting the fifth National Hobie/Daiwa Kayak Fishing Grand Final. “The Murray River launch area and facilities, on the outskirts of Mandurah, offers a stunning backdrop to some of the best and most diverse bream fishing in West Australia,” he said. “The options are endless and there is something to cater for every competitor, from fishing the

The Grand Final features identical, supplied boats for all competitors, providing a truly level playing field.

BYO tackle and PFD and you’re ready to fish. All Hobies are supplied with live wells and electronics. bringing fishermen and women from opposite shores of the country together in a

Murray and Serpentine River systems then onto the flats of the Peel Inlet and finally the

man-made canals of Mandurah itself. They’re all accessible by kayak in a day. Bring all these elements together and we are confident WA is going to host an exciting and challenging Grand Final.” Steve Morgan from Fishing Monthly agreed. “West Australia has a rich BREAMing history, with West Australian anglers placing well in National Finals over the years in the eastern states,”

he said. “The Murray River Hobie/Daiwa Kayak Fishing Grand Final finally turns the tables and lets the eastern breamers take on the talented West Aussies on their home turf. It’s going to be exciting to see if the eastern anglers’ skills will transfer west as readily as the West Aussies export theirs east. “Finally West Australian BREAMers will experience the wonder, excitement and

challenge that is the Hobie/ Daiwa Kayak Fishing Grand Final.” With only three rounds left in the series in which to qualify, the pressure is definitely on to claim a place in what is going to be a phenomenal Grand Final that elevates the Hobie Fishing Series to an Australiawide, truly national level! For more information on the series go to www.abt.com.au. – FM

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Sep 13-14

Daiwa-Hobie Kayak BREAM Series ABT - (07) 3387 0888

St Georges Basin www.abt.org.au

Sep 14

Daiwa-Hobie Kayak BASS Series ABT - (07) 3387 0888

Toonumbar Dam www.abt.org.au

Sep 27-28

Jackall Yellowbelly Championships Series Bruce Anderson - 0419 011 333

Pindari www.yellowbellychampionships.com

Sep 27-28

ABT BREAM Series ABT - (07) 3387 0888

Gold Coast www.abt.org.au

Sep 28

Bluefin Boats BASS Electric Series ABT - (07) 3387 0888

Lake St Clair www.abt.org.au

Oct 4-5

Mighty Annual Fishing Bonanza TSSC – 02 4471 7327

Tomakin www.tomakinclub.com.au

Oct 18-19

Gamakatsu TS Kayak GF GTS - 0459 401 612

Urunga fishingcomps.com.au/gts

Oct 25-26

Jackall Yellowbelly Championships Series Bruce Anderson - 0419 011 333

Windamere www.yellowbellychampionships.com

Oct 31

Gamakatsu TS Grand Final GTS - 0459 401 612

Gold Coast fishingcomps.com.au/gts

Oct 31-Nov 2

ANSA Burrinjuck Convention Sarah Borman - 0439 601 097

Burrinjuck www.canberrafishos.com/events

Nov 1-2

Lake Hume Classic Rob Lees - 0417 400 651

Lake Hume www.lakehumeclassic.com.au

Nov 1-2

Gamakatsu TS Grand Final GTS - 0459 401 612

Gold Coast fishingcomps.com.au/gts

Nov 11-12

ABT BREAM Classic Championship ABT - (07) 3387 0888

Sydney Harbour www.abt.org.au

Add your tournament or competition to this list by emailing nsweditor@fishingmonthly.com.au or calling 07 3387 0800 in office hours. Just supply a date, venue, tournament name and a telephone number and contact name. 96

SEPTEMBER 2014

HAWK FISHING • FIND-A-WORD COMPETITION

Stuff on fishing shirts

BAIT BITS BBQ SAUCE BLOOD BRANDING BURRS CAMO CRUMBS DIRT FISH ART FLIES

GREASE GRIME GUTS HOLE INK LOGOS MUD OIL PRICKLES RID

RIPS SCALES SLIME SLOGAN SPILLED BEER SPOTS STAIN SUNSCREEN TEAR

Name Address

P/Code Phone (day):

The first correct entry at the end of each month will win a Hawk Fishing cap, Hawk Fishing line, Hawk HB Lure, assorted Panther Martin lures and 3 packets of Youvella chemically sharpened hooks. SEND ENTRIES TO:

NSW Hawk Tournament Competition PO box 3172, Loganholme Qld 4129 NSW SEPTEMBER 2014

FINS SCALES & TALES by A. Both

SUBSCRIBER PRIZE The subscriber prize winner for July was S Gibbons of Caringbah, who won a Shimano Sport Camera valued at $400. All subscribers are entered in the monthly subscriber prize draws. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. The Hobie Cat Australasia and Power-Pole prize winner was W Lewis of Bella Vista, who won a Power-Pole Micro Anchor. All subscribers are entered in the monthly subscriber prize draws. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – NSWFM

BARRA COUNTRY by Brett Currie

BITE ME by Trisha Mason

FIND THE SPECIALTY FISHING FISH WINNERS The Find the specialtyfishing.com.au logo prize winners for July were: R Webster of Booral, C Brown of Binnaway, K Markham of Tea Gardens, S Mulcahy of Taree, J Wicks of Cootamundra, J Mackay of Numbaa, J Wicks of Forbes, M Thompson of Hillvue, G Tillack of Birregurra, P Herbert of Emerald Beach, J Stranner of Rose Bay, C Thompson of Salamander Bay, S Chown of Brighton, W Bowers of Campbelltown, M Quigley of Bega, M Webster of Kurrajong Heights, D Chandler of Theodore, W Short of Hamlyn Terrance, G Foster of Evatt , C Carter of Richmond, J Smith of Kelso, T Maroney of Gunnedah, B Sharp of Wendouree, C Barden of West Haven, M Baker of Gorokan, B Hester of Beverly Hills, P Lyneham of Fern Bay, T Forbes of Yarrawonga, N Morgan of Fairymeadow, T Penfold of Harrison, J Wall of Narooma, S Teasdale of Largs, J Vallis of Rylstone, D Trudgen of Mullumbimby, P Kennedy of Raymond Terrace, G Jones of Weston, N Bryant of North Albury, K Batho of Quirindi, B Tozer of Jerangle, B Robson of Blaxland. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – NSWFM

FIND THE SPECIALTY FISHING JULY LOCATIONS GEORGE & NEV by Michael Hardy

The answers to Find the Black Magic C-Point Hook for July were: 10, 16, 24, 28, 31, 34, 37, 38, 40, 52, 55, 56, 61, 63, 75. – NSWFM

FIND-A-WORD WINNER Congratulations to Merv Thompson of Hillvue, who was last month’s winner of the Hawk Tournament Find-a-Word Competition! Monthly winners receive Hawk Tournament Tested Bayer Perlon IGFA line, assorted Panther Martin lures, Youvella hooks and a keyring. Prize delivery can take 8 weeks. – NSWFM 2

• DECEMBER 2010

SEPTEMBER 2014

This section in NSW Fishing Monthly consolidates the trades and services in your area that are relevant to your fishing and boating. Whether you’re a local looking for more options or a travelling angler fishing around the state, this guide will direct you to reputable businesses in the area you’re searching.

Advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call (07) 3387 0800 or email ads@fishingmonthly.com.au

www.fishin.com.au

Boat / Trailer Modifications & Repairs

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WASHING BOATS FISHING & DIVE GEAR

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Blue Bottle Fishing www.bluebottlefishing.com info@bluebottlefishing.com Ph: 0409 333 380 Out of the Blue Tackle 0417 608 344 or www.outofthebluetackle.com.au Mo Tackle (02) 6652 4611 or www.motackle.com.au Specialty Fishing Products www.specialtyfishing.com.au U-Make-Em Soft Plastics www.u-make-emsoftplastics.com.au Adrenalin Flies www.adrenalinflies.com.au Techni Ice www.techniice.com Jayro Tackle www.jayrotackle.com.au

TRADES AND SERVICES ADVERTISING

1800 091 172

Line listing from $15 + gst per mth* 2cm x 2 from $35 + gst per mth* 5cm x 2 from $50 + gst per mth* 7cm x 2 from $74 + gst per mth* 9cm x 2 from $89 + gst per mth* 10cm x 2 from $99 + gst per mth* 11cm x 2 from $105 + gst per mth* 12cm x 2 from $110 + gst per mth* * Conditions apply Call (07) 3387 0800 or email ads@fishingmonthly.com.au

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Windybanks Bait and Tackle (02) 9477 1520

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Marine Mechanics SYDNEY

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Penrith Marine (02) 4731 6250

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Kayak Dealers

Moby Marine (02) 9153 6506 or www.mobymarine.com.au Aqua Marine 0415 600 301 or www.aquacash.com.au Cohoe Marine Products (Sydney) (02) 9519 3575 Blakes Marine (02) 4577 6699 Watersports Marine (02) 9676 1400 Neken Marine (02) 9979 9649 Family Boats (02) 9622 0222

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NOW OFFERING TAKE HOME LAY-BY! www.hunterwatersports.com 02 4947 7899 Hunter Water Sports (02) 4947 7899

Online Tackle Products www.fishin.com.au 0425 230 964

Fish Taxidermy Neptune’s Treasures - Your Catch Reproduced 0405 226 282 www.neptunestreasures.com.au Fish Taxidermist 0428 544 841

WANT IN? EMAIL : ads@fishingmonthly.com.au

SAMPLE AD - BUSINESS NAME This is where your copy will appear. You will have approximately 30 words within a 5x2 ad size. Email : ads@fishingmonthly.com.au

Marine Mechanics Cont...

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TIDE PREDICTIONS FOR SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) SEPTEMBER – 2014 FOR SYDNEY (FORT EASTERN STANDARD TIME TIDE PREDICTIONS DENISON) SEPTEMBER – 2014

EASTERN STANDARD TIME

SUNDAY

MONDAY

SUNDAY

1231 1.47 MONDAY

1.5m

TUESDAY

1 1

0600 0.48 1856 0600 1231 1856

0.56 0.48 1.47 0.56

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

2 2

0051 1.24

3 3

0159 1.19

12 18 0 0245 0.08 0853 1.71 12 1458180.150 2113 0.08 1.81 0245 0853 1.71 1458 0.15 2113 1.81

FRIDAY

4 4

0315 1.19

5 5

0430 1.25 0.48 1649 1.67 2331 1.25 0.31 0430 1015 0.48 1649 1.67 2331 0.31

116 11

0329 0.13 0941 1.73 12 1551180.190 2202 0.13 1.68 0329 0941 1.73 1551 0.19 2202 1.68

12 18 0 0359 1.13 0935 0.65 12 1608181.430 2255 1.13 0.53 0359 0935 0.65 1608 1.43 2255 0.53

0650 0.53 WEDNESDAY 0753 0.55 THURSDAY 0904 0.54 TUESDAY 1329 2005 0051 0650 1329 2005

1.47 0.56 1.24 0.53 1.47 0.56

1434 2122 0159 0753 1434 2122

1.50 0.52 1.19 0.55 1.50 0.52

SATURDAY

1545 2231 0315 0904 1545 2231

1.57 0.43 1.19 0.54 1.57 0.43

6 6

0531 1.35

126 12

0413 0.21 1029 1.72 12 1645180.260 2252 0.21 1.54 0413 1029 1.72 1645 0.26 2252 1.54

136 13

0457 0.32 1117 1.67 12 1740180.350 2344 0.32 1.39 0457 1117 1.67 1740 0.35 2344 1.39

12 18 0 0458 1.18 1037 0.62 12 1703181.460 2342 1.18 0.48 0458 1037 0.62 1703 1.46 2342 0.48

12 18 0 0545 1.26 1130 0.56 12 1749181.500 0545 1.26 1130 0.56 1749 1.50

1015 FRIDAY

1117 0.39 SATURDAY 1748 0531 1117 1748

1.78 1.35 0.39 1.78

1.0m 1.5m 0.5m 1.0m 6

7 7

0.5m 0 0024 0.20 0626 1.46 1215 0.290 1842 0.20 1.86 0024 0626 1.46 1215 0.29 1842 1.86

86 8

0113 0.11 0716 1.57 12 1311180.210 1933 0.11 1.90 0113 0716 1.57 1311 0.21 1933 1.90

96 9

0200 0.07 0805 1.65 12 1404180.160 2023 0.07 1.88 0200 0805 1.65 1404 0.16 2023 1.88

106 10

0.5m 0

146 14

0542 0.43 1207 1.60 12 1839180.450

156 15

12 18 0 0037 1.25 0630 0.53 12 1300181.520 1943 1.25 0.53 0037 0630 0.53 1300 1.52 1943 0.53

1.5m

1.0m 1.5m 0.5m 1.0m

1.5m

0542 0.43 1207 1.60 1839 0.45

NSW tides 6

166 16

12 18 0 0138 1.16 0725 0.61 12 1400181.460 2051 1.16 0.57 0138 0725 0.61 1400 1.46 2051 0.57

176 17

12 18 0 0248 1.11 0829 0.65 12 1504181.420 2158 1.11 0.57 0248 0829 0.65 1504 1.42 2158 0.57

186 18

196 19

206 20

1.0m 1.5m 0.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

216 21

0.5m 0

286 28

0.5m 0

1.5m

0020 0.43 0625 1.33 12 1215180.500 1830 0.43 1.54 0020 0625 1.33 1215 0.50 1830 1.54

226 22

12 18 0 0055 0.38 0700 1.40 12 1255180.440 1907 0.38 1.57 0055 0700 1.40 1255 0.44 1907 1.57

236 23

12 18 0 0127 0.35 0734 1.46 12 1332180.400 1943 0.35 1.58 0127 0734 1.46 1332 0.40 1943 1.58

246 24

12 18 0 0157 0.33 0807 1.51 12 1409180.360 2017 0.33 1.57 0157 0807 1.51 1409 0.36 2017 1.57

256 25

12 18 0 0228 0.32 0840 1.56 12 1446180.350 2053 0.32 1.54 0228 0840 1.56 1446 0.35 2053 1.54

266 26

12 18 0 0259 0.33 0915 1.59 12 1526180.350 2130 0.33 1.50 0259 0915 1.59 1526 0.35 2130 1.50

276 27

12 18 0 0331 0.35 0951 1.60 12 1607180.360 2210 0.35 1.43 0331 0951 1.60 1607 0.36 2210 1.43

1.0m 1.5m 0.5m 1.0m

1.5m

0407 0.39 1030 1.60 12 1652180.390 2254 0.39 1.36 0407 1030 1.60 1652 0.39 2254 1.36

296 29

12 18 0 0446 0.44 1114 1.58 12 1743180.430 2343 0.44 1.29 0446 1114 1.58 1743 0.43 2343 1.29

306 30

12 18 0 0532 0.50 1203 1.55 12 1841180.460 0532 0.50 1203 1.55 1841 0.46

1.0m 1.5m 0.5m 1.0m 12

 Copyright: Commonwealth of Australia 2012, Bureau of Meteorology (ABN 92 637 533 532) 0 Disclaimer: 6 12 18These 0 tide 6 predictions 12 18 are 0 supplied 6 12 in18 good0faith and believed to be correct. No warranty is given in respect to errors, omissions, or suitability for any purpose.  Copyright: Commonwealth of Australia 2012, Bureau of Meteorology (ABN 92 637 533 532) Disclaimer: These tide predictions are supplied in good faith and believed to be correct. No warranty is given in respect to errors, omissions, or suitability for any purpose.

Tidal information is provided courtesy of the Sydney Ports Corporation. Copyright in the Tidal Predictions is owned by the Bureau of Meteorology. Users of these tables should be aware that the heights shown in this publication are predictions only and that the actual water level height may vary due to meteorological conditions (including barometric pressure, wind effect and storm surges) and seasonal variations. Sydney Ports Corporation is not responsible for the average time differences for other locations.

Central Coast Central Coast Boat World 19 Lake St Budgewoi Phone: (02) 4399 3568 E:ccbw3@bigpond.com Website: www.centralcoastboatworld.com.au Cowra Cowra Marine Centre 29 Grenfell St Cowra Phone: (02) 6342 2904 | E:info@cowramarine.com.au Website: www.cowramarine.com.au Port Macquarie Hastings Marine 185 Hastings River Dr Port Macquarie Phone: (02) 6583 5511 | E:sales@hastingsmarine.com.au Website: www.hastingsmarine.com.au

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