New South Wales Fishing Monthly - December 2013 by Fishing Monthly

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Features

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Techniques

December, 2013

Maintaining your electric motor • Get your cod on •

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Paul Lennon landed this impressive jew fish on a Black Magic KL 7/0 hook and Black Magic 30lb tough fluorocarbon leader.

A Black Magic KL Red 8/0 was used to catch this red emperor. Len Quinn was fishing near Sharon Shoal, on the Great Barrier Reef.

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A Black Magic KL 8/0 hook was used to catch this approximately 6ft black tip shark. Jonah Yick was fishing off the Mandorah jetty in Darwin.

This 9.25kg mulloway was landed by Dave Smith using a Black Magic KS 4/0 hook. Dave was fishing out from Dunbogan, NSW.

Peter Sealey caught and released this kingfish from the shoreline of Sydney Harbour. Peter used Black Magic 40lb tough fluorocarbon leader.

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December 2013, Vol. 19, No. 4

Contents 08

From the Editor’s Desk... Although fishing is an individual sport or pastime (however you enjoy it), making magazines is a different kettle of fish. There’s a whole team of people who band together to make sure that this magazine is on the shelves by the last Thursday of each month. First there are the contributors. These guys and girls love writing about their passion and make sure that there are words of wisdom lined up each month. NSWFM is a little bit ‘what has happened’, but mostly ‘what should happen’ and we think that helps you stay in touch with what the fish are doing over the course of the seasons. We think that your time is best spent fishing where the fish are, and if the contributors help you do that, then their job is done. Then, there’s the production team in-house. Sub-editors like Nicole and Jacqui whip the contributors’ copy into shape and get it ready for the in-house design team to drop onto the pages. The designers – Matthew, Jenna, Melissa and Karen – turn the jigsaw puzzle into a magazine and shoehorn as much information into the title as

they can. At the same time, the sales team – including Michael and Ryan – deal with the advertising and get the variety of advertisements sorted out and ready for publication. We like to think that the advertising adds to the reading experience. Companies who are proud to display their latest products or specials help you get the gear together you need to catch more fish. Ring to subscribe and you’ll likely talk to Marie or Kym. They’ll make sure that your magazine gets in the post on time (and will even send you a free fishing rod if you’ve taken up the super subscription deal that we have at the moment). Gav, our resident guru in everything electronic, makes sure that the website it constantly populated with new stories and streams seamlessly to your computer. So, as I see it, the Editor’s job around here is only a small part of a much bigger team – a team that I love working with. NEW CONTRIBUTORS We’re always on the lookout for new contributors – anglers who are keen on sharing their knowledge and

pointing new anglers to their area in the right direction. The pay is ordinary but the satisfaction of helping your fellow fisher towards a catch-of-their-lifetime is irreplaceable. Drop us a line if you think that your area needs coverage and we can discuss. SUN PROTECTION You’ll notice a fairly significant Sun Protection feature in the magazine this month. We all spend a lot of time – probably too much – in the sun as anglers. We consider it our duty to keep you abreast of the latest tips and technology to ensure that you’re a survivor of your time outdoors. WRIGHT DOWN SOUTH South coast anglers that Captain Kev’s report is missing this month and has been replaced by Chris ‘Slick’ Wright. ‘Slick’ got his nickname after he was helped to retrieve his boat by a prominent female angler. Amazed at the assist, FM’s Trent Butler commented that ‘he must be pretty slick to get that sort of help’ while winching his own craft onto the rollers. And the nickname stuck. You might know Chris from his

BYRON COAST

The Tweed The Clarence

12 13

COFFS COAST

heroics on AFC, but in reality he’s just a great guy who loves his fishing (and surfing) – no matter what it’s for. Making a living diving for abalone means that he’s well in touch with what’s going on under the water and is a great substitute for Kev while he’s on a break. Thanks Slick! SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL! We know that this is the time of year that you leave catalogues and magazines lying around in prominent positions with even more prominent red circles around the next tackle item on your ‘must have’ list. Consider sending your loved ones to your local tackle store to buy your Christmas treat. If you’re worried about pricing, ask! You’ll be surprised what these guys will do to get your business and there’s no doubt that locally purchased tackle will get you great, local after-sales service. After all, if we all bought all our tackle off the internet, there’s be no-one to brag to when you do finally crack that metre-long flathead. Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

Coffs Game Coffs Harbour South West Rocks

14 18 19

MACQUARIE COAST

Port Macquarie 20 Forster 22 Harrington 23 HUNTER COAST

Hunter Coast 24 Swansea 28 Central Coast 30 SYDNEY

The Hawkesbury 32 Sydney North 33 Pittwater 34 Sydney Harbour 36 Sydney South 37 Sydney Rocks 38 Botany Bay 39 ILLAWARRA COAST

Illawarra 40 Nowra 42 BATEMANS COAST

Batemans Bay 44 Narooma 45 Merimbula 48 Bermagui 50 EDEN COAST

Tathra 50 Eden 52 FRESHWATER

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Back to Basics 91 Boating 97 Dam Levels 69 Fun Page 90 Tides 104 Trade Directory 94 Tournaments 74 What’s New Fishing 70 What’s New Boating 93

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Canberra 60 Batlow 61 Jindabyne 64 Lithgow-Oberon 65 Maitland 66 Wagga Wagga 67 Yarrawonga 67 Moama 68 Robinvale 69 REGULAR FEATURES

Cod are on the agenda again and spinnerbaits are one way of getting into a big green one. A Lure and Fly image (www.lureandfly.com)

Sub-Editors: Jacqui Thomas, Nicole Penfold

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OUR COVER

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103

ING TRADE

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Brogo Bassin’ Trout in the pockets Cod opening special Electric motor maintenance Sun protection

6 26 56 80 82

Beautiful Brogo Dam PAMBULA

Andrew Badullovich woof_bad@yahoo.com.au

Drive 27km northwest of the South Coast town of Bega and you’ll find beautiful Brogo Dam nestled in the Warrigal Range, the southernmost NSW

This wall impedes the bass as they head up the Brogo River but there is plenty of sweetwater connecting to the salt below the dam to facilitate wild spawning. At full capacity, Brogo Dam’s 100ha surface is fed by 400km2 of prime catchment. With a maximum depth of 24m and abundant shallow

Brogo is an excellent location for the fly angler. The author fooled this bass on a self-tied floating insect imitation – one very unfortunate fish! impoundment that harbours stocked Australian bass. Damming the Brogo River began in 1964, and by 1976, a 43m high concrete wall was firmly in place to retain 8980ML of water for irrigation and town water supply.

bays, sunken timber, weed banks and rocky drop-offs, Brogo is prime bass habitat. The scenery is spectacular with the rocky gorges in the Nelson Creek Arm rising over 50m. The Far South Coast Bass Stocking Association,

in conjunction with NSW Fisheries, releases 10,00020,000 bass fingerlings into Brogo annually. The association hosts the Brogo Bass Bash, a friendly, catch-and-release tournament, on the first weekend in December each year to aid restocking this thriving, wellmanaged fishery. Due to Brogo’s small size and large catchment area, it is nearly always at 100% capacity, allowing mature fish to venture over the spillway during the spawning season from June to August. The average size bass encountered in Brogo Dam is 20-30cm, with 35-40cm fish considered trophy-size. But what they lack in size is made up for in numbers. Double-figure catches are common if conditions are optimum and for their size, Brogo fish would be the hardest fighting bass in the country. I’m not sure if this is due to the cool, clear water or the light tackle I choose to catch them on, but they are very strong little fish. The best time of year to target larger specimens is the beginning of spring or in March/April, especially if the dam level is below the spillway.

FLAT BATTERY NO MORE WORLD SMALLEST Theiginal Or

When the conditions are favourable during the summer months, the fish will belt anything ravenously. Double hook-ups are a common feature! TACKLE, TACTICS The boating angler gets the best of Brogo but small pockets of shore-based opportunities are accessible.

An 8-knot speed limit makes the dam friendly for kayaks and canoes, too. Casting your offerings dangerously tight to the

edges of the shore will score best results, especially edges fringed heavily with rushes. It helps if those rushes extend out from a point.

GETTING THERE

• Southbound, on the Princes Highway 20km past Cobargo you cross the long, narrow Brogo River Bridge. Following the highway a further 2km and then take the Warrigal Range turn-off on your right. • If you’re venturing from the south, you’ll find the Warrigal Range Road turn-off 14.5km north of Bega. • Warrigal Range Road is partially sealed before converting to gravel. The single lane boat ramp is situated near the dam wall, 12km inland from the turnoff at the Princes Highway. You’ll find picnic and BBQ facilities here as well; however, camping is prohibited in this area except during Brogo Bass Bash. • The Brogo River below the Dam wall can produce great bass fishing too. The Brogo winds through mountains and pasturelands, before merging with the Bega River. • The Bega too, is famous for big bass, with the Australian record of 3.78kg and measuring 63cm hailing from these waters. The Bega River flows toward the coast and spills into Mogareeka Inlet just north of the coastal town of Tathra, before emptying into the Tasman Sea.

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Top left: Paul Seward admires a healthy Brogo Bass. Top right: The author pinned this 36cm bass near the dam wall during a summer morning session. Note the weed around the lure and fish’s mouth. This fish dived hard for the cover of the weed once hooked. Above: The strike zone lies between the red line and the shoreline. Once you are within casting range, make the blue arrow your first presentation. To work the entire area effectively, present your offerings as directed by the yellow arrows, and pause your lure where the yellow crosses indicate.

Work these areas vigilantly, as they provide great vantage points for bass to ambush baitfish. I start my retrieve with two quick cranks of the reel handle before going to a slow, steady roll. I work the lure around 3m from the point of splashdown before a brief pause and then repeat the process. Most of the strikes will be in this first 3m of the retrieve. It’s worth making multiple casts at one area if there are subsurface subtleties, such as weed and snags, prevalent. I’m a believer in making your first presentation count but peppering a likely area may result in a bass attacking your offering out of aggression. Crankbaits around 40-50mm that dive to 1.5m

The use of a topographical map will open up opportunities for the shore-based angler. Getting there is half the fun and catching a bass is a bonus. are ideal, especially in gold or flashy colours. I have found large spinnerbaits and heavy lipless crankbaits are too big for the Brogo bass. Flyfishers enjoy the

The author’s daughter picked up this Brogo brawler by trolling a lure past a fallen wattle tree, (in background) Trolling the edges is a good way to get the kids connected to a Brogo bass.

best of Brogo with delicate presentations cast deep into the pockets of water behind the weed edges. Speculative casts around the shallower weed beds in the open bays at the head of the dam will produce fish, too, but don’t give these fish an inch once hooked as they dive hard for the weed. Small topwaters and soft plastics do well early and late in the day. Surface lures worked over the shallow weed will produce larger fish. Hopping small metal blades along the rocky gorges is a good way to score during the middle of the day. I caught my best Brogo bass, 38cm fork length, this way. Wattle trees lying close to the water’s edge are a favourite target. When the wattle is in bloom, from September on, bass station

beneath them waiting for all manner of insects to drop from the overhanging branches. Accurate casts are required, so I prefer shorter rods. I have played with a few but have found the 6’4” Daiwa Generation Black Pinster 2kg-5kg best for this. It is a pleasure to use when presenting small lures, and affordable. I run 4lb braid and 8lb leader and find this a good trade-off between finesse and strength. Do not go loaded for bear. The majority of Brogo fish are small, and if you go

lighter you’ll enjoy higher catch rates. Remember, bass can be temperamental and turn their noses up at every offering, leaving you demoralised.

On those sorts of days remember that Brogo is a picturesque setting laden with wildlife, so remember to look up and indulge in the whole experience.

CONTACTS

• For an entry form to the Brogo Bass Bash, or a guided fishing tour on Brogo Dam, call Darren and Jan Redman on 0427 934 688 or (02) 6493 4857 • Call Stuart Hindson of Aussie fish Estuary Adventures, on 0400 062 504 for a guided fishing experience on Brogo Dam or surrounding coastal rivers and lakes. • Brogo Wilderness Canoes (02) 6492 7328 for canoe hire and/or tours of Brogo. • Keep an eye on Brogo dam levels.

There are numerous spots around the dam where you can disembark for a picnic lunch, or stretch the legs.

NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

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Family festive fishing THE TWEED

Roderick Walmsley ru4reelcharters@gmail.com

December can be a really good time of the year to enjoy some family time on the Tweed.

Most of our family fishing is done with bait and the good thing about this is that it isn’t dependant on water clarity, which is quite often a bit tricky to predict over the summer months. Fish will usually eat bait no matter what the water clarity.

What we may find this month if the rains do play a bit of havoc with the system is that the fish will often congregate in the lower reaches. There are some good yabby banks around the golf course opposite Fingal. We will usually make pumping

Summer can be a great time to get the family out for a fish.

Wahoo will be a viable target species this month.

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the yabbies the focus of the day with plenty of laughs and fun. Most of the fish in the Tweed River will happily scoff a yabby fished on as light a line as possible. When fishing the river with my two boys I use my light bream tackle. This lighter gear is ideal as it is nice and light for the boys to handle and just about any fish will put up a good show on the soft rods. A running sinker to a swivel followed by a length of mono or fluorocarbon of around 6lb completes the rig. I usually make the length of my hook line about a 50-75cm and use a hook just big enough to accommodate a yabby. If the fish aren’t biting I will move around until I find a spot with a reasonable depth of water and active fish. Adjust the weight of the sinker to the amount of run in the water. More run will require a slightly heavier

weight to ensure your bait is on the bottom. Once the youngsters have caught a few fish, the yabby races will usually start. At this stage I can focus a bit more on catching a few fish myself and possibly flicking a few lures around. As we lead into the silly season the river will get crowded and enjoyable fishing may become somewhat difficult. This is unfortunately just how it is and if you are a serious fisho then you would need to be on the water at first light. Once the crowds begin to appear start looking at some of the lesser known arms of the river. It can often pay to do a bit of exploring to find a bit of water that you won’t have to share with a lot of other boaties. On a more sombre note this will be my last report on the Tweed. I was offered a job in the Gladstone Region and have decided to take it. I will be working for Marine Safety Queensland in the port and looking forward to the new role as well as the fishing challenges that the area will have to offer. I am not actually sure just how long I have been writing the Tweed Report for but it has definitely been a few years. A lot of fish have made it onto these pages and I have made a lot of friends through

it. A huge thank you to the crew from NSW and QLD Fishing Monthly, especially to Tony Zann the departing editor, who has been a mentor

and friend to me from the first report. I look forward to catching some of you on the water – good fishing and stay safe.

A good size blue marlin just prior to release.

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DECEMBER 2013

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December already, where did the year go? The summer species are in full swing, with fishos chasing down flathead, whiting and mackerel at this end of the mighty Clarence River. Up river, the bass and cod are on the chew. If it remains dry, and we don’t suffer the floods that have afflicted us the last couple of years, we should get a decent run at Continued page 13

Brock Partridge with a sweet water bass. When you hear the deafening ring of cicadas you know it is time to bust out your bass surface gear!

dart, tarwhine and flathead. Live beach worms and pipis will be gun baits for most of these species, with whitebait and plastics a better choice for the flatties. At this time of year there should be a few black tip sharks on the beach at Shark Bay. These are a really good way to get a get a child hooked on the sport of fishing for life – what little boy or girl wouldn’t get a kick out of going to school after the weekend bragging about catching a shark. Another way to

entertain the kids is to chase some garfish. Most weed beds in the lower reaches of the river should be holding them. You might have to hunt them down but once you do it’s non-stop action, which will have the kids amused for quite a while. The key is berley bread and tuna oil mixed together and the same concoction on a size 10 or 12 long shank hook or some peeled prawn. Iluka Bay or up the north arm on the Yamba side along Whiting Beach or oyster channel, are all good places to start looking for them.

As far as the rest of the river is concerned there should be plenty of table quality flatties and whiting around the weed drop-offs around the bottom end of the river. The best time to get quality fish will be on those big night tides around the full and new moon with fresh baits of nippers and live worms. COD SEASON December 1 marks the opening of cod season.

There aren’t many more fun things than having a cod whollop a surface lure. I’m going to head back up into Murray cod country and get into some action on these lovely looking native fish. Bass will be pushing back up the river as well. When you hear the deafening ring of cicadas you know it is time to bust out your bass surface gear and have some great fun.

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Jesh Gannon with a decent haul of tasty whiting. From page 12

the mackerel. Trolling the good old reliable pink squid around the usual spots, like Shark Bay, should produce good numbers. If racing around like a mad man isn’t your cup of tea, then setting up a berley trail and floating a pilly out is a much more relaxing way to get the same result without the fuel bill! If you decide to use bait, there are a couple things that can help out on a hard bite: Leader diameter is a lot more important when fishing bait. Unlike trolling, where you can get

away with 60-90lb wire, the fish gets a lot more time to eye off the offering and get picky. When using wire you can go as low as 15lb; some people skip wire altogether and risk the chance of bite-offs to get more hook ups. For berley, the rule is less is more – you’re trying to attract them, not feed them! Set up your berley bucket with some mashed up pillies and tuna oil and then a handful of chopped up pillies every couple of minutes is best. OFF THE BEACH Off the beach there should be some whiting,

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DECEMBER 2013

Season shaping up COFFS GAME

Glen Booth

Gamefishing types around Coffs Harbour have a spring in their step at this time of year because they know what’s around the corner, but it would be nice to get some stable weather for a change. Howling

northerlies replaced by howling southerlies, with a half to one-day weather window in between is getting extremely tiresome. The only pleasing aspect of the southerlies is that they push the bluewater into the coast, and of course the attendant pelagics that are riding it. The marlin are

definitely out there though, with enough being seen and caught to suggest it could be a reasonable season for blues at least. We’re still waiting to see if there will be a baby black invasion like last summer though. Reports from Northern and Central Queensland don’t seem quite as intense as the build-up to last season’s epic, but it’s early days yet. From a personal perspective, five marlin bites in the first three trips of the new season suggests it’s shaping up nicely as we run into summer. Of course, two blues dropped — one 50ft from the boat and another on the leader — doesn’t make for a happy skipper. With GoPros hanging off every conceivable mounting place

A little additional coaching as the fish gets closer.

Dean ‘Red’ Szabo from the Solitary Islands Game Fishing Club hooked up to a 130kg blue back in late October. Photo by James McGinty.

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on the boat these days, the agony was there for all to see from multiple angles. The look of fury on my face as I climbed up to switch off the rooftop camera after the second loss was a horrifying sight. I think I even scared myself! The patchy water that was a feature of spring has blessedly been replaced by a more stable blue colour, with it lots of current —

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almost too much — up to 3.5 knots at times. This makes for a very quick trip down the coast and an agonisingly slow one up it if the bite is in the opposite direction to where you’re fishing. Fast moving schools of striped tuna are the predominant bait species offshore at present, although big patches of forearm-long

slimy mackerel were milling around the bottom of the Patches in late October. There were a few cobia lolling about amongst them too, but were obviously too well fed to eat a mackerel with a hook in it. The black clouds of mutton birds that have descended on every boat trying to bait fish inshore

over the last month has been an added incentive to swap the floater rods for game gear and get out wide. The flying rats have been so bad that they’ve even taken to eating soft plastics and stealing livies off bait jigs. Couple this with dead, lifeless water and green slime on the lines, and it spells bad news for the bait soakers. Mahi mahi should be starting to show soon, and the longliners have been plucking the odd beauty up to 26kg. Solitary Islands GFC boat Magnum had a chance encounter with a giant squid that had been dead for a long time (going by the smell), but it didn’t deter the green and yellow speedsters though. Nic Edwards and Daran Ryan tagged five each between 8kg and 12kg, and Nic kept one bull that weighed 18.5kg on 15, which is a top fish. Dean Szabo scored the first In-Hours marlin for the same club back in late October, tagging a 130kg blue on 24kg while fishing from Alcatraz.

FISHING FILL-ITS

Algal bloom Ballina Beach The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) advises that a toxic algal bloom has been detected in the waters of Ballina Beach. The species of algae detected produces diarrhetic shellfish poisoning toxins. The NSW Food Authority advises that toxins above safe levels for human consumption have been confirmed in shellfish from Ballina Beach. Pipis and other shellfish taken from Ballina Beach and surrounding areas should not be eaten. Cooking does not destroy the toxins.

Symptoms of diarrhetic shellfish poisoning symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, with diarrhea being the most commonly reported symptom. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after eating wild seafood from or near the affected area should seek immediate medical attention. Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning is rare but it is still important that people follow this advice so they do not get sick. Recreational fishers are reminded that there is

already a longstanding closure in place which makes it unlawful for recreational fishers to take pipis from beaches to eat or to remove them more than 50m from the high tide mark. If any health effects are experienced from contact with water affected by algal blooms, medical advice should be promptly sought. This media alert only reports algal blooms that have been brought to the attention of DPI. Algal blooms may be present in other areas. – NSWDPI

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DECEMBER 2013

December deja vu COFFS HARBOUR

Stephen Worley worleybirdfilms@hotmail.com

D is for duplicant – I have just read through my Coffs Harbour report for December last year and I could almost re-submit that

report for this year too! It has been a remarkably similar winter and spring compared to 2012 and so it will be well worth looking at what happened last year in your fishing as a hint of what might come this summer. During December last year the offshore scene was

Hayden Elks got this bass in a dirty coastal creek on a dark coloured Cutting Edge Tomahawk.

come fishing at

G1S4 N I OKfor 20 O B now

dominated by a black plague of marlin. Everything this year has indicated that the run of small black marlin will head down the coast again, but what’s not certain is if they will hug the coast like they did last summer. If the pocket of cold water off our coast stays as it is they will likely swim on past a fair bit wide of land. They should still be on the cards but maybe only for those venturing out towards the shelf. If the East Australian Current moves in and pushes that colder water out then we could see another great run of inshore mini marlin. Trolling live baits, small skirts and hardbodies worked well last year, although marlin were caught on almost every kind of rig around. I even heard of one being caught on a bait jig aimed at small bonito. The action surrounding our other summer visitors such as mackerel, longtail tuna and mahi mahi will also be dependent on the EAC. There have been some large bull mahi mahi caught out wide in the warmer water

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The warm water equals less oxygen, which meant that this trout hardly put up a fight, even though it was only on a 2wt fly rod. but they will not move too much closer unless we lose this cold coastal water. We should see mackerel turn up over the next month so it’s time to start thinking about single strand wire on some of your rigs if trolling lures or using live baits. I’ve found that snapper don’t seem to be bothered too much by wire so I usually have 54lb wire on all my trolling lures from December on. Around the headlands and beaches there are plenty of mulloway to be caught with some decent size models coming as a surprise to some. Warren Forbes of Nambucca caught a 19kg beauty while fishing a worm off the beach on his whiting gear. There have also been some 6-10kg specimens surprising the odd bream and jack angler up in the estuaries. Even if you don’t end up with a surprise mulloway the estuaries are still producing good fish. The jacks are becoming very active in the middle and upper parts of all the coastal systems. Even in the middle of summer they tend to stick pretty close to structure so you will have to find the prime snags to find the big fish. Rock bars and snags that sit out in the flow

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but provide an eddy for the predators to rest in, will nearly always house the bigger fish in the area. While you’re out jack fishing it’s a great time to throw in a crab pot and catch a feed of muddies while you fish. Remember to check the regulations to ensure your equipment and crabs comply. Also note that it’s not a great idea to leave your crab pots unattended for long as the crabs can damage them, or you may lose your crabs and/ or pot to someone who can’t be bothered buying their own. Whiting are now very active on the surface for those keen to throw a popper or walker around the flats. It’s best chasing them on the sand banks on the incoming tide and around the adjacent dropoffs once the tide starts falling. Flathead will follow this same pattern and there have been some larger breeding females caught recently but as always there are a lot more smaller, eager males around that make up the majority of the fish caught. As I mentioned last month the bream will be very keen chasing insects on the surface so the cicada and bug lures will become increasingly effective the further we get

into summer. In the freshwater, the bass have been quite aggressive in parts as they queue up downstream of barriers waiting for higher river levels to continue up stream. This plays into the angler’s hands and has produced some prolific sessions on fish eager to beat the next bass to that tasty looking cicada. In almost all the systems the bass are well on their way up the rivers and creeks but unless we get decent rain they will continue to be slowed if not stopped by some of these river wide barricades, both natural and artificial. The trout are also in a similar predicament as last year, with some cooler weather and rain needed to give reprieve to the fish in sweltering conditions. Most of the larger creeks have been fishing well and the larger pools in the small creeks likewise, but if this heat keeps up the trout in some streams will be in real danger. The sun can be very dangerous to anglers as well so if you’re out enjoying your holidays with the family or just a weekend on the boat make sure to slip, slop, slap and have a great Christmas and New Year.

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Bass fishing in the Macleay has been at its finest of late and should only get more exciting as the action turns to the surface with the influx of summer insects. Lack of rain in the valley has caused the river to drop dramatically leaving a lot of the rapids with only a couple of inches of water flowing over them, making it hard for the upstream migration to commence. For the best results paddle a kayak or canoe up to the top end of the bigger holes where the bigger fish are stacked up, and pepper the hole with spinnerbaits and deep diving lures. Countless fish in the high 50cm (and even low 60cm) have been landed already this season, through all hours of the day, making it well worth the effort. The lower Macleay has been all about big flathead and school mulloway. These fish will not just jump on your hook. Concentrate your

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Marty Nichols with his first 50cm bass of the season caught from his canoe. efforts around deeper holes and tide changes for the best results. The most productive forms of bait have been 4-5” plastics and live herring. This month we’ll see whiting numbers increase further in the river. Poppers and small pencils/stickbaits are by far the most exciting

The crew onboard Trifecta with some deep water 70cm+ mulloway.

way to catch these tasty little fish. However, there is nothing wrong with a relaxing bait session using either pink nippers or live beach worms. Offshore we are coming out of our transition period quite nicely. Although Mother Nature has dished up some fairly windy conditions, the fish are there. Acres of tuna have been spotted on occasions, which is a good sign of warm currents and things to come. Jigging on the deeper reefs has accounted for plenty of kingfish in the 8kg plus category, with a number of good-sized mulloway coming in from the same areas. By December, Fish Rock will be firing, although the average size will decrease as we get closer to Christmas. Soft plastics and small jigs are the best option with a few poppers and stick baits thrown in for good measure. Be sure to fish heavy as you never know how big the next hookup may be and the reef is never too far away. Rock hoppers are being rewarded with some decent sized kingfish. The odd early season cobia have been spotted, these first sightings

always spark excitement in the land-based sector for they know what is just around the corner. Clear water has made it tough to catch a lot of the other species, which dwell in these areas by day. Night fishing for mulloway has been as productive as ever off the headlands. It is important to note that the legal length for mulloway has been raised to 70cm with two fish in total. This is a positive step towards rebuilding the stock to a sustainable level, and will only benefit everybody in the future. Warm water on the beaches brings an influx of whiting and flathead into the gutters. A 7’ rod and a small spinning reel loaded with braid is becoming commonplace on the beaches, especially with the use of soft plastics and vibes for flathead. If there are fish in the hole, you will usually know before your lure hits the bottom. Good-sized bags of flathead will be common right through the summer on mid-sized plastics and you never know when a decent mulloway will nail your presentation.

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DECEMBER 2013

Game plan in full force Well the silly season is upon us and the man in the big red suit will hopefully be dropping fishing goodies

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under the Christmas tree. One thing is for certain the silly fishing season should come early to those who like to wet a line and chase some of our piscatorial friends. You could look at the silly season in two ways, negative and positive. I’ll deal with the negative first and a few ways to combat it. The biggest negative of the silly season is the amount of people on the water. Ever heard of the early bird catches the worm, well it’s the same with fishing. The early fisher catches the fish, or at least has the place to themselves. So get on the water early and beat the crowds. One way of doing this is by having all your gear prepped and ready to go the night before. I like to have the boat fully packed, rods rigged, camera gear stowed and food and drinks ready to go. And if I’m fishing on foot a backpack set up with a little tackle box, camera, water bottle, muesli bar and a rod rigged for the intended target species. This enables me to get up just before first light, out of the house and on the water when the sun is just creeping over the horizon. If you do this, then you have the best chance to maximise your time on the water before the crowds roll in and the day warms up. The positive side is the fishing that is available brings many opportunities to tangle with a variety of species. Generally, I go with a plan to target a particular species, and I will fish hard for the intended species and head home when I’m done. Primary estuary targets will be whiting, bream, flathead and mulloway. Freshwater will certainly be on the cards with the obvious species being Australian bass. Off the beaches whiting and mulloway will be on the cards. And for those heading offshore you’ll have a host of pelagics, kingfish, mahi mahi and snapper on offer. So make a game plan or keep

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Surface lures like this wounded warrior, the Bassday Sugapen, are deadly on bream on the flats. your options open and varied, just make sure you have a good time on the water. Whiting fishing excites me greatly this month. Not only for the tasty meal but the adrenalin rush these relatively small fish can give when they take your bait or lure when fishing light line. Good spots for bait fishing this month will be the sandy banks up river of Dennis Bridge and around Blackmans Point. Live worms are the optimum bait, although yabbies will also prove reliable in getting a feed.

the boat then top spots are the flats around the mouth of the Maria River and the flats opposite Port Macquarie’s Town Green, although this is an early morning spot to beat the swimmers, surf skis and paddle board riders. Other species to target this month will be bream, flathead and mulloway. All of these species at this time of year will be spread through out our system. With out some decent rain on the predicted horizon, that should continue through out the summer. Best places to locate

They might not be huge but Camden Haven bass will always pull hard and put a smile on your face. I like to hunt whiting at this time of year with surface lures; either in the boat or on foot. I prefer on foot as you feel more at one with the water and the quarry. Walking the flats at Lake Cathie or Googleys Lagoon on the Camden Haven can produce some fine whiting. And to catching them on a pencil surface lures or poppers is a pure thrill, especially when they fight all the way to your feet or even take a lure right at your rod tip in front of you. I work the lure extremely fast until I find the speed they like. When a fish tracks behind your lure, do not pause it. As this will often spook away the fish. Keep it moving until you hear the drag go, then set the hook and enjoy the fight. If you want to do this out of

them will be structure that will hold baitfish. Look for spots where the water flow is changed due to artificial or natural structure. This could be a jetty, pontoon, oyster lease or trees. Don’t forget to read the water and use your sounder to look for sudden and subtle changes in depth; these will also change the water flow and cause bait fish to school and your intended target species to be lurking nearby ready for an easy feed. Three locations that people often miss when looking for these things are as follows: Firstly, mangrove edges. The majority of mangrovelined banks have small gutters along them that are slightly deeper and will hold fish. Secondly, rock bars

and discarded debris that is only visible at low tide. Sometimes it’s good to go for a fish at some really low tides and make note of possible spots to fish on run-in and top of the tide. Lastly weed beds, no real secret there. But one thing that got me excited recently, is that black swans have come back to Port Macquarie and have been spending time on the weed flats in Big Bay. We haven’t seen this for near on 10 years and last time we did the weed grew thick and was a very productive fishery. Hopefully this is a good sign and there will be plenty of predatory fish, like flathead, bream and mulloway, freely feeding around the weed on the flats. Best baits for these locations will always be fresh prawns, yabbies and worms. If you’re throwing lures then a shallow diver with a wide action for flathead and a tighter more subtle action for bream. I also love to throw sinking stick baits and twitch and wiggle them during the retrieve to imitate injured baitfish and prawns. Surface lures will also work fine over the weed in the early hours. Bass fishing should be good this season and by all accounts the early fish this season have been in good condition and some reports of good numbers being caught in the Hastings and Maria rivers. The Camden Haven River up stream of Kew will also be a top place to drop in the canoe or kayak and go for a paddle to catch bass. Surface lures are always my starting point. However, early season bass have been very partial to spinnerbaits with browns and gold colours working well, along with the ever-reliable purple colours. So no matter how you look at the silly season, you can make the most of your fishing and have a good time. So please take care over the Christmas Season and I hope you get some nice fishing goodies under the tree and that you have some quality time on the water.

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Forster flathead flourish FORSTER

David Seaman dseamo@bigpond.com

Christmas is upon us and the visiting population of holidaymakers and anglers

have descended on the beautiful coastal strip of the Great Lakes. At this time of year is difficult to fish the area around the bridge and lower lake beyond 10am; the number of watercraft crowding the clear water

of the lake’s entrance is often scary. What is also scary is the low level of understanding of the waterway rules and regulations by some of the water users. So be warned and be extra vigilant on the water for the next

Fish around the bridge with poppers and you’ll be tangling with some stud whiting and good bream. You may also get surprised with a bonito or two.

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two months. If you are not opposed to very early mornings, the area around the bridge and the weed flats around Miles (Sandy) Island are creeping with flathead and whiting. There are plenty of bait fish trying to stay out of the way of the pike, bonito and even frigate mackerel in Breckenridge Channel, and scattered on the edges of the current

fished at slack water, around the bridge area, will attract the better size whiting. Surprisingly the bridge pylons haven’t been holding any decent bream but there have been some large flathead hiding behind the pylons on the run-out tide. The deeper water pylons on the Tuncurry side of the bridge has been

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This is the size bream we have come to expect in the rivers and lake. Top water action is red hot. are the flathead. There have been some big mommas with a pile of small male flathead hanging around them in the channel. If you are looking for a trophy fish, for photos and release, it is worth hitting the Breckenridge area. And if you hit a patch of smaller fish it may mean there is a big breeder close by. It goes without saying that the big flathead, over 70cm should be released after a few photos to ensure a good breeding stock for the future. The edges of the sand flats are lousy with small whiting; the larger fish, as shadows, can be seen off in the deeper water. A live yabby or beach worm

producing some sizable luderick on yabbies and weed, and it is a great spot to try for those wanting a few live yellowtail. The deep edge of the sand island opposite the Tuncurry Co-op is a good spot to fish for drifting baits during the last of run-out and the first of the run-in. Good whiting, bream and flathead are often caught in this area and school mulloway are certainly not out of the question. The break wall has no real consistency to it, which is common for this time of the year. Patchy decent fish are separated by the rubbish like toads and butterfish so target the early morning and

evening/nights for fishing the walls. The mulloway have been very hit and miss so it is a matter of keeping your ear out for whispers of fish, although the new moon period run-out of an evening should produce fish. The new moon run-out of a night is also producing plenty of prawns and blue swimmer crabs for anglers that care to take up positions in Breckenridge Channel or other spots around the lake. A few days either side of 10 December is your next best opportunity to catch a feed of prawns and have a great night out. If you’re keen, a rod set with a live prawn on it will catch you some stud whiting, bream and even a nocturnal flatty or two. Beach fishing along the Mid North Coast comes into its own during the summer months. The bream, whiting and dart are certainly entertaining with early morning tailor and the chance of a balmy evening mulloway enough to encourage anglers to put in the time. Catching beach worms is made easier with an increase in their feeding activity and they are certainly the best bait on the sandy strip, at this time of the year. With the formations and gutters on the beaches changing so quickly, it is worth a bit of time checking out the local area. Celito and Seven Mile beaches are pretty safe bets for good gutters. OFFSHORE The small bonito have started coming closer to shore and with them come some big kingfish and cobia. A few early contacts with small black marlin are likely until the water warms up a bit. Continued page 23

Chopper tailor on the bite HARRINGTON-TAREE

Ian Pereira ianpereira@aapt.net.au

As I have mentioned before, 2013 has been a very unusual year regarding the appearance and non-appearance of fish around the Harrington area. Years ago tailor would appear towards the end of December and remain in the area until the end of July. There would be no tailor

until the Christmas choppers showed up. Then about the mid to late eighties choppers started turning up in July or early August and stayed to the middle of the next year! Occasionally there would be no early choppers but as the years passed it became normal for the choppers to appear before spring. This year looks like the choppers will be late and only the occasional fish will be taken. The large tailor that were around until after the

full moon in September have left and we will see no more big fish until the middle of February next year. ESTUARY As usual, the Manning has produced very well over the past month. Flathead are taking soft plastics in all parts of the Manning, and the lower reaches of the river are producing the best catches. The best of the fish are around 50-60cm in length with only the occasional larger fish of

From page 22

The local reef fishing is producing a few pan-sized snapper and an increasing number of flathead and other mixed species like sergeant baker and some trag. I don’t expect offshore reef fishing will improve until we get some rain and a bit of a flush. Until then we can just take advantage of the dry spell with top water breaming and prawning being the pick of the month. Have a safe and Happy Christmas and make time for the two ‘Fs’ – family and fishing.

Not all the bream in the lake are this big, but it is a great sign for the future of system.

5-6kg being caught. The Lansdowne River has produced the most big fish. Luderick are being caught in numbers along the rock walls at the mouth of the river. Night anglers have been getting bag limits of fish on fresh yabby bait. The best fish would average 500g gilled and gutted. Bream are back on the bite on yabbies and mullet strips, with the best catches being made at night around the slack waters. Mulloway have been noticeable by their absence in the river but outside anglers have been scoring good 18kg specimens on the reefs. BEACH AND ROCK Catches have been very poor on the beaches with only a couple of fish being caught at any one time. Bream, salmon, tailor and undersized school mulloway have been caught over the past few weeks but they have been scarce. Until we get a week or two of northeasterly winds to form up the beaches and some bait schools appear, catches will be small. OFFSHORE Results have been much better for boat anglers with good catches of mulloway and snapper around the reefs

This year looks like the choppers will be late. and on the rocky bottom areas off our coast. Trag have been caught on bait from the northern grounds and flathead have been landed from the drift grounds off the mouth of the river. Surface fish have not been sighted for some weeks and this indicates a lack of schooling bait fish. December is a great time for the holiday-makers who turn up at Harrington to spend a few weeks to enjoy the fishing. Luderick will be on the

bite on weed during the day and yabbies at night. Bobby corking with live bait for big flathead will also be on the minds of a lot of anglers. Nowadays, most responsible anglers let the big ones go so they can drop their roe to renew the schools of smaller flathead in the river. For those who like beach fishing, then spinning for tailor or floating a fresh slab around the rocks for a big mulloway is also an opportunity to grab a feed of fish.

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Santa stocking the waterways HUNTER COAST

Gary Earl earlybird13@optusnet.com.au

Christmas is here and by the looks of it Santa has gifted this area with a lot of great fish and some unreal water temperatures, which should have this month firing on all cylinders. Pelagics offshore, inshore reef fish, beach fishing, bay, lake and river fish are everywhere. Some new fishing gear in your

stocking, and who could ask for more? First the good news is the sheer amount of schools of tuna, being stripies, bonito, small yellowfin, and a few big eye tuna that aren’t too far off the coast at the moment. As you read this, the fish will be even thicker as we have very warm water in very close. The amount of bait that has travelled down from the north is another reason the fishing is so great. Offshore there are marlin

on the shelf and a few big blues have been spotted as well as landed in the past few weeks. Black marlin are in closer to shore and the sizes are all uniform, around 80-150kg. They are taking lures and slowly trolled mullet, garfish and slimy. The mullet are being stitched up into a butterfly with the fillets flapping as an enticement. The garfish have been trolled with pink and purple skirts over their nose as a further attractant, and the slimy mackerel are best trolled

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alive at a very slow speed. Lure colours and size doesn’t seem to be making much difference at the moment as the marlin are jumping onto all sizes and colours. Some large bull mahi mahi and a few oversize travelling kingfish have crashed lures as well. Don’t be surprised to see a few northern visitors such as Spanish mackerel, cobia and wahoo as the water is so warm. Most boats have told me they are using mirror teaser decoys to attract the fish around and lift them up to the surface. Close inshore the reefs are firing with school kingfish and the odd snapper. Once again, the number of pearl perch are up; these fish are great eating and turn up in numbers every few years when the temps hit peak in this region. Mulloway, teraglin,

Cicadas are hatching again and now through to February their deafening scream in the upper river tells me one thing, get out the surface poppers and crawlers for the bass in the late evening and watch the action. for bait, or even some old steak; crabs aren’t that fussy when they are around in good numbers, as they have been lately. In the Harbour at Newcastle the walls at Nobbys and Stockton have been fishing well. Bream have been taking half pilchards that are being fished for tailor around sunset, and flathead are grabbing any slab baits landed away from the rocks

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Flathead have been taken in the Hunter River lately. All methods have been catching good size fish, trolling deep diving lures, casting in the shallows, drifting slab baits and drifting with live poddy mullet. nannygai, bream, tailor, school sharks, mahi mahi and bonito are all hovering over the reefs. Trolling the edges deep or on the surface should see some hook ups. Live baits at night will connect to sharks and the mulloway. Don’t be surprised to see bigger than usual kingfish around the pinnacles of reefs, and snapper and flathead on the gravel beds. This month get the prawn nets and crab traps out as both are around in pretty good numbers. If you can get a feed for the Christmas table you will be popular with the family I’m sure. Try up around Raymond Terrace and the sand flats near Tomago or the flats along Kooragang Island, remember though the Island has been completely fenced off; it’s only accessible by boat. The small beaches where the large ship boilers are sitting are great for prawns at night. Blue swimmer crabs are travelling into the river proper and are up around Sandgate and Hexham. However, you don’t have to travel that far for a feed, the sand flats along Stockton near the wreck and down near the bridge give up good numbers of crabs at times. Try luderick, mullet, crushed slimy mackerel

a little. Try the moons for mulloway, you can get live baits here on the spot. Use slimy mackerel on both sides of both walls and live squid on the beach side of the Stockton wall. Don’t forget the beach side of Stockton wall gives up some decent whiting at this time of year; try worms, peeled prawns or small red lures, add red tube to your baits as they love the colour red and this can enhance your catches. The beaches will be busy all over Christmas, so take care and slow down as kids are everywhere and can run

from a camp in the dunes or out from another 4WD. There are a number of gutters that have formed from the wind and are producing well. Large bream and whiting and the odd salmon have been taken during the day. Tailor and school mulloway have been coming in at night, and flathead are being taken early morning on the rising tide. Make sure you have an up to date beach pass. Park up near the dunes and not in the centre of the beach where everyone is going back and forth; this pushes you into really soft sand and it can be a problem for really heavy trucks. Up river the bass are around the Williams River along the rock walls and in the Upper Hunter River. The rock walls work well trolled with medium deep divers and casting spinnerbaits near snags. Cicadas are about so surface lures will be working in the evenings, they are deafening in the river lately. Don’t be too astounded if you hook some mulloway and bream while trolling as we haven’t had the rains, which has made the river very salty and the fish have travelled well up into the hinterland looking for a feed. You should be able to take bass and bream all the way to Morpeth until the rains set in and flush the system. This month won’t be all about technique or special spots, as long as you have a line in the water somewhere you will be in for some great fishing. The water quality should see to this! Merry Christmas everyone, have a great fishy one.

Fresh worms can be made to last if you wrap them in wet sand in newspaper and dampen it. They are great bait for bream no matter where you are fishing.

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Put a fly in that pocket! Pocket water is a term used to describe a section of river that consists of broken, welloxygenated water. It contains plenty of rocks and boulders, creating multiple current lines and slack water behind the rocks.

This type of water is often found where the gradient of a river steepens, and therefore is very common in the headwaters of a river. The large amounts of cover where trout can hold means the head of fish in

Perfect pocket water – there could be a trout in any nook or cranny. Often the lure casters and bait flickers won’t come here, so there is less fishing pressure as well.

this sort of water is often greater than elsewhere in the same river. Pocket water is generally under-fished in comparison with the main runs and pools in the river. It is that little bit more difficult to fish and the nature of the water keeps the bait and lure anglers away. The best waters to search are the runs and chutes where food will become concentrated by the rocks and boulders, as well the slacker water where fish will be holding out of the main current. Due to the nature of pocket water, you are able to get very close to the fish. This eliminates the need for long casting. Instead, a short, accurate cast is advantageous and gives the angler greater control when fishing the fly. The multiple currents across the river can make

The author demonstrates using a high rod to keep the fly line off the water. In such fast water the line can cause instant drag, which is detrimental to your chances. it difficult to get a dragfree drift. To overcome this, checking the rod at the end of each cast and keeping a high rod angle will allow you to keep your fly line off the water. This enables you to reach over currents, eliminating the need for lots of mending. As always, try to keep

a low profile, especially considering how close you are to the fish. When playing fish, try to keep the fight short. In this water there are plenty of sticks that get washed downstream and become lodged under rocks that the fish can get around and lose you on. For me, fly selection is less important than a wellpresented, drag-free fly. I fish a few patterns that I have confidence in, such as the Elk Hair Caddis, Red Tag, Klinkhammer and the F-Fly. However, I carry all of

can be deadly to suspend a nymph beneath a dry by tying a section of tippet to the shank of the dry fly hook, or to fish your dry off a dropper and then fish a nymph on the point. When choosing a nymph, try to match the colour of your fly to the colour of the water. It can be hard to go past a Pheasant Tail or Hare’s Ear nymph. As far as the gear, I like to fish with a 10’ #4 rod with a double-taper fly line with a 12’ tapered leader. Often you find the longer

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The author with a sparkling rainbow trout taken from a pocket.

them in a range of sizes, usually 12, 14 and 16. UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS At times earlier in the season, and after rain, the water can rise and become discoloured. As you would expect, this reduces your chances of picking up fish on the single dry. In these conditions, it

rod gives you extra reach when fishing, which you will greatly appreciate when you are trying to fish that lovely pocket on the other side of a fast run. Remember to keep that line off the water and keep the flies drag-free, and I’m sure you’ll have as much fun catching trout out of the tight runs and pockets as I do! – Tom Jarman

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Create memories at Crescent Head Holiday Park This quiet village close to Kempsey offers unspoilt charm and legendary surf, a major attraction for surfers and Malibu riders. Crescent Head has one of the best right-hand point breaks in the world,

and the town is one of the hot spots of international surfing. Crescent Head Holiday Park is one of the best situated parks on the Mid North Coast of NSW, Just 19kms south east of

Kempsey and 440 kms north of Sydney, offering magnificent water views, as the park fronts Killick Creek and the ocean, and is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Hat Head National Park. As well as its beachfront location, Crescent Head Holiday Park is close proximity to all the activities the area has to offer. There are two sections of the park to choose from: Lakeside and Surfside. The beach is patrolled in summer, while Killick Creek offers clean, safe swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking for all ages. Our facilities include the onsite cafe ‘The Kiosk’, which provides hot cold breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and a range of delicious coffee, cold drinks, ice creams and milk. Local shops include a supermarket, butcher, newsagent, chemist, post office, video store, service station, hair salon, doctor’s surgery and more. Nearby facilities include playground, bbq areas, tennis courts, bowling greens and one of the most picturesque golf courses on the Mid North Coast adjoining

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the park at Crescent Head Country Club. You might also like to hire a Malibu board from the surf shop and hit the surf, or bring your kayak or paddle board and cruise along Killick Creek. You will enjoy some excellent fishing at Killick Creek and Crescent Head Main Beach. A deep gutter called the Jew Bite runs out against Hungry Hill, while down the beach shifting

gutters abound. These are popular with 4WD beach fishers who fish for tailor, bream, mulloway and whiting. At Crescent Head shallow sand and rock flats lie off the north side of the Head. Other species sometimes caught are popper, silver trevally, luderick and rock cod. A boat ramp and fish cleaning facilities are nearby to the Holiday Park and Surf Club.

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December is the best time to enjoy the waterways on the Central Coast. The downside is that you also have to battle the crowds. This is the main reason I don’t like December. Despite the first-rate fishing, I really don’t like crowds, water skiers, and excessive heat! Nevertheless, these issues are certainly not enough to keep me off the water. The best thing that anglers can do during the next few months is to really be selective with when they are on the water; this will be a big advantage to getting into some great fish. Try to work the right tides early in the mornings or later in the afternoons. They’ll be fewer crowds and the fish are less shy and more likely to pounce on your offerings, whether it is bait or lure. The lake has plenty of great fish on offer at the moment. There have been some solid kingfish already encountered around the drop over markers and

around the Swansea Bridge areas. Down rigging live squid is your best chance to tangle with these tough fish and for lure anglers try flicking lightly weighted 5-7” flick bait style plastics. The bream have really started to turn it on for those fishing the shallows. Shallow running hardbody lures have been pulling some great bags. The sand flats are the obvious place to start out and some good whiting are also in the mix. Bait fishers have also had success and many have been anchoring just in the deeper water out from the shallows. A good berley trail will have the bream on the chew in no time. Other spots that have been producing include Salts Bay and Belmont Bay. The lake edges are a good place to start as well. Flathead numbers generally increase over these warmer months. The numbers of large flathead are certainly less than the cooler months but we are still finding a few solid girls well into the 80cm range, just not as many. The majority of deepwater areas that fire in winter are pretty well shut down now as the fish move into the shallower waters.

A great feed of jackets from the reef systems offshore from Swansea for local boat Redemption. well and trolled deep diving hardbody lures are also producing some great fish. Offshore fishing has picked up nicely. Those after a feed of fish are doing well hitting the

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DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

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Local angler Lachie Ma with his first bass from a recent trip to Lake Glenbawn. More accustomed to fishing the lake, Lachie was very impressed with the power of bass, even for an average-sized one. Areas in the 1-4m mark are good places to try; Belmont Bay is fishing well and so is Bonnels Bay, you just need to be in and out before the skiers arrive. We have found that soft plastics in the 3-5” range are working

offshore reefs. Some good leatherjackets are around and although they can be a pest they are a great fish for the table. Along with the leatherjackets are some nice reds, nannygai and flathead.

The waters are now warming and the bait schools are building. This should see marlin on the chew and species like mahi mahi not far away. Shark fishos have managed some very good catches with a few tigers to 350kg being caught. Kingfish are also in good numbers and although there are loads of rats around there are plenty of good fish in the mix with some going to 10kg. Live yakkas fished down deep have been producing good results and those hardcore jig anglers are certainly going well with many good bags of 4-8kg fish coming home for the table. It’s great to hear that so many anglers these days are catching a few for the table then putting the rest back for another day. It really is a positive sign to see this happening more and more. Rock and beach fishing are also going well with some great catches of bream coming from the washes along the rocks. There have been loads of rat kings caught by a few of the anglers working off the rocks and there is every chance of getting into a few solid fish as things warm up. It really is a matter of persistence pays and picking through the rats will see you hit the bigger fish sooner or later. Just a reminder that at www.jayrotackle.com.au we have some great sales on leading up to Xmas and we also offer gift vouchers for those looking to get that perfect present so check it out.

NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Surface shines for summer CENTRAL COAST

Glenn Ellis-Helmers

What a contrast these past few months have been compared to the same period over the previous few years. Rather than too much rain we have now been in the grip of an extended dry spell that has caused terrible bush fires, but also makes our lakes and rivers so clear that fishing becomes much harder than it normal. In the lakes bream fishing has remained pretty good despite the clear water, although I am sure it would be better with some more rains. With summer now underway and the past few months being so warm, water temps are also up. This means bream

will be keenly chasing down surface lures around the edges of rocky points, weeds and sandy bays. Work the tides in Brisbane Waters so that you can be fishing over the flats just as the water is rising. Try the lakes early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Whiting have been smashing lures briskly

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worked along the surface. Some real thumpers are about at the bottom of Lake Macquarie but you can find big whiting in Tuggerah Lakes, especially around The Entrance and also over the flats in Brisbane Waters. Don’t be afraid to use large lures for whiting as this can attract a better class of

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fish. A 65 Sammy could be a starting point and others like a Bassday Sugapen or even an 85 Sammy could be worth casting around. Flathead can really explode if a surface lure

passes their nose in the shallows. They can wake you right up and a big flatty will put on quite a fight in super shallow water. Although they often come when you least expect them, they are not as common on surface lures as some people make out. It’s soft plastics or baits that will be better if you would like to score a few flathead to take home for the table or target larger flathead and release them after a photo. Flathead can be caught throughout our waters at this time of year. Even at the height of the holiday period, at places like Woy Woy or The Entrance, flathead can still be caught regularly despite all the added fishing pressure and boat traffic. However, it’s probably better to target them earlier in the morning before too many people get on the water. This month some other estuary species worth considering are mulloway in Brisbane Waters, flounder, garfish and of course prawns during the dark moon phase. A few blue swimmer and mud

Plenty of bream will be around this month, so results should be good whether you prefer to use natural baits or lures. crabs should also be active. On to the beach fishing, the mulloway should now be showing up a bit more, mainly along the bigger open beaches after sunset. Salmon may still be around but as the water gets warmer nearly all of them will head back down south and tailor will become much more common. For a more relaxing style of beach fishing, take the lighter gear along and try a rising tide through the day for

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whiting. Beach worms, blood worms or peeled prawns will all work well on whiting at the beach, but you may also find some pipis under your feet while you’re fishing. They are another top bait and best of all they don’t cost a cent and aren’t hard to find or catch. Those who like to fish from the rocks may still find the occasional salmon, as well as tailor if using whole pilchards on ganged hooks. At any time from now though, harder fighting species like kingfish and bonito could show up and they certainly don’t mind a pilchard bait. But if these fish do show up then most keen anglers will be casting chrome metals at them in the 30-45g range. Out to sea the water temperatures have been getting better by the week, however, it can be a bit cold at times so results may not always be consistent. Inshore there should be tailor, bonito and smaller kings, while out wider around the ships or any floating buoys or objects some mahi mahi may be present. Marlin too will be starting to move down the coast. The fishing is looking good along the Central Coast. Let’s hope some decent rains fall that will improve estuary fishing. Have a great Christmas.

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Dan Selby dan@sydneysportfishing.com.au

I have lived and breathed the Hawkesbury my whole life and have never seen

such great fishing. Big bass started to fire up as we had our first few warm days in mid-October, yielding quite a few over 40cm and a handful of 50cm+ specimens in the often windy conditions.

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Spinnerbaits were the standout lure for seeking out these bigger fish. They allow you to sink your lure down the deeper edges and encounter submerged ledges and snags that are often overlooked by most that cast to the edges. A decent dump of rain is still needed to allow the bass to repopulate the sweet water creeks. A few resident fish are still there but the numbers seem to be down after most took the free ride down to spawn during June’s decent fresh. That aside, the tidal water has been seeing some great fishing for bass and perch as competition is high for the school prawns and baitfish. Surface feeding antics early and late in the day is what I’m looking forward to

dry conditions continue, targeting flathead from Windsor to lower Portland will be viable using plastics, vibes and lipless crankbaits on the numerous drop-offs and bars. Prawns, live and fresh frozen are also accounting for some quality catches around Wisemans Ferry. At present they are accounting for the best catches in the upper tidal water with reports of hot sessions on mulloway, flathead, bream and estuary perch filtering through. Those inclined to throw lures will fare better as the season progresses and the bait stocks diminish. Lures that represent the size and colour of the local prawns always seem to get best results but small shads and paddle-tails

Jim caught this awesome 70cm snapper as mulloway by-catch near the road bridge on a recent charter. traps with fresh fish frames or a perforated bag with a handful of pilchards secured inside will put you in with a chance. Select areas where there isn’t a lot of current flow or boating activity and make sure you have enough rope for

standout fish producer early in the season but they will favour live yellowtail and slimies as the season progresses. Work the headlands and inshore reefs and wrecks by drifting with baits set deep or on downriggers. If you come

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Left: Kingfish will be on offer around the headlands and bays this month. Michael caught this 77cm fish downrigging a live squid on light tackle. Right: Rebecca with a handsome 82cm school mulloway that took a liking to a live bait fished on the tide change. this season. The late Dean Hayes coined the term ‘pelagic bass’ for this special phenomenon where schools of ravenous bass push masses of prawns to the surface and gorge themselves until they are about to pop! Flathead will often be encountered underneath this feeding activity once the bass have started to wise up to your offerings. If the current

that represent poddy mullet and herring will work on their day. Rock walls will be holding bream and EPs while reefs, creek mouths and dropoffs will be holding mulloway and flathead with the odd bream or two. Fish as light as possible for best results. The mud crabs should start to make an appearance this month, so setting some

high and low tide so your pot doesn’t lift and float away. Kingfish are bouncing back in numbers and size so make sure your gear is well serviced and up to the task. We have already encountered several fish to over a metre on live baits run from the downrigger. These fish test everything from knots, rods and reels, terminal tackle and also how well you have secured your rod holders to the gunnels! You can never be too prepared for the kingfish. Live squid was the

across an active patch, try saving some of those precious live baits and switch them onto big soft plastic stick baits or micro jigs for hours of action-packed fun. Keep a look out for diving birds around Broken Bay and Pittwater as the kingfish can feed side-by-side or just below salmon and tailor schools. Fishing aside, I hope you guys have a safe, happy and prosperous Christmas and New Year period, I’m sure I’ll see a few of you on the water.

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December will see the nor’easterly breezes solidify this month, and when the weather gets hot the fishing will get hotter. This month will see more species enter the realm and bigger fish will become more frequent, whether caught or lost. Warmer nights and water temperatures, along with more daylight, will allow more time to fish suitable conditions; beaches, estuaries and even our lakes’ temperatures will rise encouraging most species to get on the chew. This month sees the kings get bigger and the squid get smaller and smarter. Plenty of kings are around this season and now is a good time to target them on artificials, like plastics and hardbodies. Harbour kingfish in particular are most aggressive towards lures and plastics at this time of year but a small live squid a metre from the top or the bottom will up your chances by as much as 40%. Some super squidding

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Chris Beverley with a Sydney kingfish. Harbour kingfish are really aggressive towards lures and plastics at this time of year. is upon us and due to the quantity of anglers now chasing squid locally, you’ll be required to become more efficient at successfully filling the live well, so here are a few pointers: • Plenty of squid can be caught on cheap jigs but cheap jigs don’t last, so no complaining when it comes to big squid lift time and the spikes fall out of your jig. • I usually try a size two in orange or pink as my first jig, day or night. Bright colours are recommended for night but work doubly well during the day. • Pound for pound squid have the largest eye in the ocean, so a dark jig gets a run at midnight or on dark evenings. • Any attracting scent will be an advantage on a

for bait at this time of year is a massive opportunity for kingfish. • When you go squidding, be sure to move frequently around from spot to spot. I rarely stay at a location for more than 30 minutes unless there are good numbers of squid. Be sure to also try a few different directional casts; really give the joint a peppering. • Squid need kelp, rocks or structure and light, mostly to hunt, so try all the local wharves at night where baitfish mainly congregate and use bigger jigs if you fish the ocean rocks as the eastern calamari are a bigger squid. • If your squid does die, it will still make a terrific bait so keep it cool and use it fresh, even as strips or the

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Morning glory in the warm PITTWATER

Peter Le Blang plfishfingers@bigpond.com

It’s been a long time coming but the warm water has finally arrived and is crashing into the rivers and coastline. With the warmer water the pelagic species are firing up and there is some great fishing to be had by those willing to start early and get off the water before the northeast sea breeze kicks in around lunchtime. Our charters have started as usual, gathering live baits so we can travel along the coast targeting kingfish. There are also other species to catch and there are a few odd ball species starting to show up already. Bonito are still hanging around but for those of you that love to hear a screaming reel, mac tuna and striped tuna are also taking cast or trolled Waxwing and bibbed hardbody lures. The areas along the coast to try for pelagic species are dictated by the schools of baitfish. Not every headland has baitfish so it may take a bit of

searching before a school of panicking slimy mackerel or yellowtail is found, but once found, the bigger boys aren’t that far away. The areas that have been most successful for us over the last couple of weeks are Long Reef through to Newport Reef. Whale Headland has been a bit of a hit or miss affair this last month but when the fish have shown up there have been quite a few bigger fish lurking beneath the schools of baitfish. The best method to target some of the bigger fish is to grab a small slimy mackerel and down rig it underneath the school of baitfish. The predators haven’t been driving the baitfish to the surface but have been feeding on them down deep in the cooler water. Try Glow-Bait on your live bait to make it a standout target. Wider offshore there is quite a bit of activity for those fishing the bottom. For the snapper fisher, if you start early, anchor and float down baits, there are some fish to 5kg to be caught. The areas that we have tried have varied from charter to charter but a great depth to start is 40m

and if the action is slow we have been moving out to the deeper depth of 60-80m before starting again. There is a lot of current out wider and sometimes the strong current has meant that we have to fish the shallower water depths as it’s no fun to fish with sinkers heavier than 12oz. For those that do persist there are snapper, flathead and nannygai but feeling a bite with such heavy weight dictates that you must use braid if you want to feel the bite. Pittwater is also firing up. The commercial fishers are still making it difficult for fish to move into Pittwater as they still are raping the river of baitfish, squid and your bread and butter species. In short, if you want to fish along Pittwater, be prepared to travel to find baitfish. If the levels of food for the predators aren’t that great the predators will move on and find better grounds and so should you. For those that are chasing kingfish along Pittwater the better areas to try are along the Kingfish Highway, The Supermarket and The Motor at Palm

Beach. There are fish to play with as the sunrises at Barrenjoey Headland and these smaller kingfish want to play with yellowtail or squid strips. These fish are normally making an appearance on the surface every 20 minutes or so and can also be targeted with soft plastics or my favourite, Shimano Waxwings in the silver pattern. Flathead are being caught on the run-out tide at the drop-off at Palm Beach. Drifting up the drop-off using soft plastics has been very productive. When we have used baits, such as pilchards or prawns, there are way too many smaller pickers about which are stripping the baits before a flathead has been found. Other areas to try for a flathead are Towlers Bay, The Hill and the drift in front of Portuguese Beach. Broken Bay is starting to fire up as well. The better areas to fish have been Flint and Steel, Middle Grounds, Juno Point, Gunya Point and Walkers Point. All of these areas have fish to be caught ranging from flathead and mulloway through to bream and flathead. To target mulloway

Smaller kingfish like this one can be caught at Barrenjoey Headland using live yellowtail or squid strips. use fresh squid heads or butterflied slimy or yellowtail and pick the change of the tide for your best chance. If you are going to fish for a mulloway or two remember to scout around an area first to find structure or a drop-off. Make sure that you anchor accurately and if that means re-setting the anchor a few times, so be it. Accurate anchoring will provide you with the chance to catch mulloway at other times of the tide instead of just on

the change of the tide. I hope this article sees you wanting to hit the coast and our wonderful waterways. If you are after some of the above mentioned species, give us a call and let us show you a great day on the water with friends and family. • Peter Le Blang operates Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters, phone 02 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351, visit www. estuaryfishingcharters. com.au

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As from 1 September 2013, Fisheries have been enforcing a 30-year-old ban that had previously gone unpoliced, on taking squid and cuttlefish from the North Harbour Marine Reserve. A Special Supplement to the Marine Reserves Act was gazetted in August to clarify ambiguities to the original wording that otherwise made the rules hard to enforce. The reserve where the squid ban occurs encompasses about one third of all the lower harbour’s available squid grounds, so there will be a considerable increase in pressure on the remaining grounds. Whoever is behind this current push has failed to recognize how crowded the harbour can get and how much extra stress this will place on the boating fraternity for no perceivable gain. Why Fisheries has decided to enforce the squid ban of 1982 is a mystery. Some within the department claim that it

has always been the intent of the reserve to disallow fishing for squid. Others, particularly the biologists, disagree. When the reserve was proposed by local council in 1982 the intent was to ban all fishing. Fisheries were not happy with that and negotiated to allow for ‘fishing for fin fish’ only. To bid for the fishing of ‘fin fish only’ does not mean that the ‘intention’ was to disallow squid fishing. It was simply a compromise to allow for ‘some’ fishing as opposed to ‘no’ fishing. If the intention had been to ban squidding, it would have been enforced. So why didn’t they ban it? Because there was no need. In the 80s most Aussies wouldn’t even feed squid to their cat. Apart from a feeble luminous bead with prongs on one end that sank like a snapper lead, squid jigs were unknown. From a recreational, commercial or culinary perspective, squid were irrelevant. Even back then, Fisheries management knew that squid grow rapidly, have short lifespans, mature early and

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have a rapid population turnover. The global squid biomass greatly exceeds the biomass of all humans on the earth. They have always been one of the most sustainable species on the planet, so it would be naive to say that one of the original intentions of the marine reserve was to protect squid. Even now, there is no evidence to suggest that anglers are having any impact on the sustainability or recruitment of harbour squid. Despite the increased pressure over the last 30 years, squid are as abundant today as they were back then. And the greatest irony of all this is that while

you can’t take a squid from the reserve (one of the world’s most abundant and fecund creatures) you can take and kill a blue groper – characterised by slow growth, late maturity and low reproduction! Nowadays you can be fined for having a rigged squid rod within the reserve. If you are squid fishing at Middle Head, for example, which is not in the reserve, and you want to run across to Manly Jetty you will need to un-rig your squid kit. You can legally have live or dead squid in your possession within the reserve, but not a squid jig. It’s absurd. We need a quick review of this situation.

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Joining the summer rush SYDNEY SOUTH

Gary Brown gbrown1@iprimus.com.au

Last weekend I had just pulled my boat out of the water at the ramp at the Hole In The Wall at Sylvania when another angler came up to me to ask what I had caught. After a four-hour session working the flats off Towra I had caught five silver trevally, one bream and one tarwhine. He stated that now that the weather was warming up he would now think about going for a fish. I was surprised – there have been plenty of fish about during the winter months, so why wait until so late in the year? But it reminded me that many people do just that, staying off the water until the land and sea temperatures get warmer. I decided to finalise my next lot of trips to try to avoid the summer rush of anglers. For those of you going offshore in the southern Sydney region you could try targeting snapper, morwong and pigfish off Maroubra at places like the Trag Grounds (33.56.070 151.16.240), the Twelve Miler (33.55.660

151.28.510) and the Wedding Cake Island off Coogee. South of the entrance to Botany Bay you could try places like the Kurnell Car Park (34.01.320 151.14.300), the Lighthouse (34.02.200 151.14.00), Jibbon Bombora and Osborne Shoals. Try drifting over these spots, and when you first get a good-sized fish you will need to mark it on your GPS. If you get another good fish I would suggest that you hit the button again. This will give you two points which you can repeatedly drift over. If you do start to get a few fish

you may want to drop anchor and start a berley trail going. Another thing you could do when travelling to these spots is to try trolling a couple of lures or soft plastics out the back for Australian salmon, striped tuna, kingfish and bonito. Many years ago I used to catch bonito only for bait, but since Scotty Lyons convinced me that they are good eating I also keep a couple for a feed. Just remember that if you are going to eat them you will need to bleed them straight away and then put them on ice. This will tend to

Bonito are great fighters and very tasty on the dinner plate. This one was trolled up on Scotty Lyons’ boat just north of Botany Bay.

Terry just loves targeting bass during the summer months from his kayak. firm up the flesh. If you are going to keep them for bait I recommend that you either freeze them whole or fillet them, and before you freeze them you will need to cover the flesh with salt. This will toughen the fillet up. Beach fishing for bream, whiting, trevally, tailor and mulloway will be another option during the month of December as the water and the weather hots up. During the summer months it’s good to go beach fishing after work for a few hours. This is because you have daylight saving and there tend to be fewer anglers fishing at this time. The trick to this is making sure you are well prepared before you go.

If I am going to chase whiting off one of my local beaches at Cronulla I make sure that I have already gone out and either got a few beach worms or pumped a few nippers. The worms can be kept in the bottom part of the fridge lightly covered in dry sand and rolled up in wet newspaper. The nippers can be caught a few days before and all you need is one of those battery-operated air pumps or a few changes of fresh saltwater. In my garage I have a shoulder bag with a small tackle box, a bait bucket, knife and one 3.6m rod ready to go on top of the car. Other beaches that are worth a shot are Maroubra, Coogee, Jibbon,

Wattamolla, Garie, Burning Palms and Stanwell Park. If you don’t have time to get your own beach worms or nippers you could always ring up one of the bait shops in the shire and pre-order a few nippers or bloodworms. Gabe’s Tackle at Sylvania or Mac’s Bait at Blakehurst would be worth a ring. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous you could grab a few lures and head down to the top end of the Woronora or Georges rivers and chase a few bass during those last few hours of light. Nothing is better than getting a surface strike on a lure from a bass. Or if you get the chance you could drive out to the Nepean and have a shot out there.

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DECEMBER 2013

So much to do in December SYDNEY ROCKS

Alex Bellissimo alex@bellissimocharters.com

This month it’s action time. There’ll be no twiddling your thumbs contemplating what to do. Off the rocks the kings are in reasonable to good numbers from most headlands. The locations that are producing of late are Bluefish, Little Bluey, about

800m south of Bluefish Point, South Curl Curl, and Flat Rock. Turrametta Head is also producing a few. Just cast out onto the sand, like South Curl Curl and The Ovens at South Whale Headland. Remember that kings are a pelagic species and will turn up and disappear from day to day. Angling and pro pressures, as much as change of current, will determine where the fish will be.

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Dolphins have been a problem as well, as well as divers. So try and avoid areas that are frequently used for activities that may deter the kings on the day. It pays to have a plan B or C up your sleeve. Getting there early and having a pod of dolphins or jet skis ripping up the water is not the end of your day; pack up and go to option B. I have had plenty of cracking days on the kings late morning and the middle of the day. Only problem is the heat! White 9” Slap Sticks are working well, along with live yellowtail suspended between 2-5m under a float. Metals are taking a few fish too, with the 75-125g Knights with the blue strip catching their share. The snapper fishing is continuing with fish to 1.5kg caught in the washes. Bycatches can include kings to 68cm and bream to 850g. Bonito and salmon are often caught as well, sometimes more than the snapper! To get the most out of your session try using either 6-8kg braid or mono to maximise enjoyment. Feeling that tell-tale rod-buckling bite then see the snapper bounce with those beautiful red and blue speckles is always exciting. As I have mentioned on numerous occasions use a hook that is going to be suitable for an overlegal to larger snapper. A 3/0 in the 92247 or 92554 are both strong hooks that will handle the crunching jaws of a good red but will not be too small to gut or gill hook unnecessarily an under-sized fish; using even a 2/0 can be detrimental to an under-sized fish. If using bait, try whole and half pilchards, large prawns, like the banana or endeavour prawn, bottle squid or squid strips. Bear in mind that it will be worth your while having two to three types of bait. Distance casting is

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A decent bag of whiting and a stud bream for 13yo Vincent and friend Liam. On its first run the bream peeled off 25-30m of 3kg braid! very light sinkers. In the deeper washes fish a 5-6kg outfit and in the shallows fish a 2-3kg outfit. The typical bycatch is pigs, groper and some late season trevally. Luderick are also showing up in the catches. ROCK FISHING Beach fishing can be perplexing to say the least! The underwater desert of sand appears to lack structure, unlike estuary or

tide. Hmm…I told you it was a bit confusing. If you’re having problems, it is probably best to hire a professional guide who can steer you in the right direction. Rob Marich (one of my regular charter clients) has been catching some great whiting up to 40cm off Manly Beach. We catch the worms beforehand. North Steyne Surf Club

to Queenscliff pool is also producing some good bags. Manly Beach is a crowded beach; locals and tourists surf it hard with plenty of revellers body surfing as well. Just remember that it is a reasonable size beach so move to the next hole. There are whiting, bream and flathead being caught in most gutters. A local caught a decent mulloway to 8kg recently on live yellowtail on this beach. Dee Why has been producing some good whiting and bream. Collaroy and the Pines North have been producing. These can be kelpie beaches so look before you commit! December and January are good for a whopping mulloway off the beach. Popular choices of bait have been live tailor (make sure they meet the legal minimum size of 30cm), whole squid, large live yellowtail and mullet. Large hooks from 8/0 to 10/0 in the Mustad Reds are great. Bronze and dusky whaler sharks will be one of the main by-catches. Remember that big baits mean big fish. The school size mulloway will be deterred from biting these large live baits. This is just some of what is happening on the beaches and rocks. Remember, don’t twiddle your thumbs contemplating a fish. Get out there and have a crack at it as much as possible, and be the person who catches that prize fish instead of reading about it. Just do it!

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rock fishing. It is easy to describe a beach gutter: white water to the left, white water to the right and an unbroken wave in the middle. Try and pick that same hole when the seas are up or when they are flat or in between sets, or during a set, or at low tide or when it is mid or high

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also producing at spots like Freshwater Headland, Flat Rock at South Curl Curl and Mona Vale pool. The washes at Bluefish, Freshwater, Dee Why and North Avalon are also worth a try. Bream fishing at this time of the year is pretty good. There are a few good fish off South Curl Curl pool, off the pool at Dee Why, a spot often over-looked, the evergreen Long Reef shallows and Barrenjoey Rocks on the north face. Pink nippers, pilchard fillets and Hawkesbury prawns are working well. Half pillies are a reliable bait as well. Berley is OK, however in the shallows, like Long Reef, it can be detrimental. Move around and fish

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Botany Bay bream abound BOTANY BAY

Scott Lyons fishingsydney@optusnet.com.au

The local fishing is now starting to fire in Botany Bay and offshore. Many are keen to head out for the day as the warm weather approaches. Botany Bay will see bream start to show in good numbers across the shallows. I find

summer just anchor anywhere in the middle of the bay. My rig is rather simple; 6kg Schneider mono, a number 5 ball or bean sinker, and trace approximately 1.5m down to a number 1 hook. I just cast out, place the rod in the holder and wait. The bream will hook themselves, too easy! A good outfit for bream is the Shimano 4000 baiter matched to Bushy SW Snapper

Clint with a stunning mangrove jack pulled from the snags. 3-6m about right to anchor, and then I drift these areas working small blades or soft plastics. I also soak a prawn bait or chicken strip on both tides at any time of the day. Move about for best results. To give the bream a try this

732 rod. Bream are a great chance for all anglers all summer in Botany Bay or the Port Hacking River. Kingfish are one species many are super keen to catch. I hope the rain holds off a little,

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the last two seasons have been tricky with dirty water moving through the system. Kingfish move into Botany Bay mid November in good numbers and by the middle of December all is in full swing. They are one of our toughest sportfish to catch, so make sure your gear is up to the job. Don’t fish too light as it’s better to land the fish with plenty of life left in them, so they can be released if under size. Many are under 65cm so put them back, and let’s hope we see Fisheries on the water this summer doing their rounds. Summer is also a top time to chase surface action with metal lures. Lately I have given the Bumpa-Bar Lures range a good work out and these are top quality lures made from 316 stainless steel made right here in Sydney. They come with heavy rings and hook and will stand up to all you can hook on them. I have also used them in Weipa with great results on many species. It’s worth having a mix of colours in your tackle box. Tailor, bonito and salmon are target species and the feeding birds will point you in the right direction. Try and work out your drift so you can stop wide and drift into the

feeding fish for best results. Summer is a top time to head out with lots on offer. WEIPA I’m back on deck after another great trip to Weipa and some outstanding results. First few days had us fishing the blue water out from Weipa and along the vast beaches that surround Albatross Bay. We were casting poppers and metals and working soft plastics over the shallow reefs, for queenfish, cod, jacks, coral trout and long tail tuna out wide, just to name a few.

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DECEMBER 2013

Early season hasn’t stopped ILLAWARRA

Greg Clarke clarkey1@westnet.com.au

The season started early this year with hot water rolling down the coast back in September and it hasn’t stopped since! There have been heaps of medium to monster yellowfin tuna that came with it, and early mahi mahi in October with a few wahoo thrown in for good measure. November saw more of the same with big blue and striped marlin in good numbers off the shelf, so don’t be surprised if

be about out wide and in any current in close. The good thing about the early warm water is it brings current and that means the kings will be on the hunt. Everything else seems to be early but the kings like that current running hard so they should be on the boil when the hard push of water comes. For the moment there are a few kings around the islands and the other usual spots grabbing live squid and slimies, if you are very early and work the likely areas hard. Once the current runs they will be easy pickings.

bag limits of big fish becoming regular for those who have a handle on it. This being the case, we may need to put the big ones back like we do with the flatties. I know that the pros hammer the snapper with the traps in deeper water and have taken a lot of fish over the years, but with the added pressure of the plastics working so well something may give. Just a thought as it has always been difficult to baitfish for good results in these depths. If you like chasing snapper in the shallower waters, there

With the early warm water we should see more of these little jellybean yellowfin making an appearance along with schoolies to 30kg. the blacks turn up this month on the close reefs and hang around for longer than usual. This is all good if you have a boat that can get out wide but a few fish should filter through to the close reefs for the smaller boats to have a bit of fun too. Don’t forget that there is the chance of that big fin on Wollongong or Bandit in the first week or two of this month. They still come through but not in any numbers. You have to be ‘Johnny on the spot’ to get one, but as always you never know. Jellybean fin and schoolies to 30kg should still

Bellambi Reef, Bass Point, Bandit, Wollongong Reef and the islands will all be top spots and, although it doesn’t cop the current, the bommies off Rangoon Island down south also produce good fish. Also on the radar has been the extra good run of snapper from the deep water out around the ships. There are reefs everywhere and most anglers are looking for the bait balls, and when they are found the reds don’t seem to be too far away. Soft plastics have come into their own in this situation and are fishing extra well with

how quickly the flatties zoom in on them, and when they are on, it is worth giving the pelagics a miss and keep on pulling flatties. There are plenty grabbing baits for the drifters as well, over all the usual sand patches. The trevally are grabbing flattie baits too and over the reefs there are good numbers of small reddies, mowies, the odd trag and Samson, and the usual leatherjackets if you are in the wrong spot. Closer in the beaches are starting to run hot with just about everything starting to come onto the boil. This month is notorious for its big mulloway and this year should be no different. With all the baitfish in the surf already and the water a little warmer than usual, it should fire. Plenty of soapies and schoolies are about on most beaches, you just have to be there when they are. So put in the hours with fresh bait and you will be rewarded. Fish to 30kg are not uncommon over the coming weeks; so don’t take a knife to a gunfight. Mulloway over 20kg fight hard in the surf and will give a good account of themselves on 10-15kg tackle. Go any heavier and you risk missing the bites altogether for being too heavy; go too light and you will get the bites and get towelled up by a big fish. This size tackle also helps get those

Now the water has warmed up and the prawns are running, the flatties are out to fatten up. nuisance little whalers in a bit quicker too, and there will be plenty of them over the coming months. Coniston, East Corrimal, Stanwell Park, Windang and Bombo are all top beaches for a look this month. Set your sights a bit lower and there are heaps of whiting all along the coast now. You will need beach worms for best results. Everything else likes beach worms too so be prepared for bream, trevally, flathead, dart and of course salmon. Schools of sambos love chasing baitfish into the surf

and have a free for all at this time of the year so always keep a few metal lures in the beach bag for just such occasions and a few plastics for the flatties as well. On the rocks it is starting to simmer with salmon, tailor, bonito and small kings. They’re grabbing pilchards and lures at all the deeper ledges with the southern rocks from Bass Point south the best performers. Big kings are patrolling these same ledges very early in the morning so a live squid or yellowtail fished right at your Continued page 42

are a few about the bommies. Bust out a bit of berley, and fish light during the evenings. There are plenty of striped tuna from 50 fathoms to the shelf if you need bait. Some are in closer mixing it with all the salmon schools chasing bait all along the coast. Some nice bonito have moved in with them and there are some solid trevally under the schools if you work the plastic under them. Prawn patterns bring them undone every time and score a few small reds as well. If you let it sink too deep and you are over the sand it is amazing

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Besting big lizards NOWRA

Greg Reid info@bayandbasinsportsfishing.com.au

The estuaries have been producing some serious gold if you persist and are prepared to mix it up. Spring can be patchy, but the quality not the quantity continues to cement the reputation of this productive little lake. The big choppers have been present on a regular basis and it’s also fair to say the bream have moved into the shallows. The odd jewie has been lurking and the big dusky flathead have been on the chew big time. Testament to this was the fantastic results from the Basin Lure & Fly Club’s annual Catch & Release

Flathead Classic run in late October. Congratulations to Peter Hewitt on the biggest flattie for the event which went 5.87kg and 89cm. While the traditional soft plastic double hop will account for plenty of pan-sized flatties, you really need to take a leaf from the Ian Phillips book of ripping the bejesus out of the lure with a big sharp rip if you are to set the hooks on a big lizard. Speaking of big lizards, I have to thank Jai Goodwin and Massey Matias for inviting me to fish with them on a guided tour recently. Demonstrating the effectiveness of soft vibes produced the fattest mother of a PB flattie I have seen to date. The historical record will say

92cm and around 7kg in weight, but the sheer width of this fish was really something else as you can see in the picture hereabouts. Jai compared the head dimensions to a toilet seat. Further south, many bait anglers still don’t know about the very poor rating that land-locked black bream have on the seafood sustainability list. The blacks generally don’t migrate to seas to spawn, and can stay in an estuary their entire lives. With a few lakes in the southern

Netman Massey Matias and Reidy with a monster lizard that was released.

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Nowra Marine’s Dave Blackman with a stud flats bream caught on a hardbody.

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feet could do very well. Keep the berley going to bring around some decent bream, trevally and even a reddie or two in the wash area. Blackfish are in the harbours early but good weed is needed and a good weed berley to get them around and keep them interested. The estuaries are now in full swing but one of the main targets this month and in the couple of weeks before Christmas will be blue swimmer crabs. During the weekends if the weather is even slightly kind there will be thousands of

floats marking the positions of the traps all over the lake. They are a major navigation hazard so keep your eyes on the water and don’t take them off as it is impossible to navigate in a straight line because you will get one of the lines tangled in your prop. It’s not dangerous at all just a pain in the backside untangling the mess from your motor then having to take your prop off when you get home to check for any material caught around the inside of the prop that could damage your seals. Even with all the traps there still seems to be plenty of crabs to go around so everyone is happy.

While you are waiting for the crabs the flatties are all over the lake with the area around the drop-off the best spot. The main channel and over along the front of the power station goes all right too. All the usual flathead plastics will score fish but if you want to hedge your bets grab a few live prawns for bait and not only pick up flathead but bream and whiting as well. Try casting live unweighted prawns into the snags of the feeder streams for some monster bream or just hit the flats in the dark and bugger the bait – get a feed of prawns for yourself.

take up residence around prominent reefs from the Banks to Point Perp. The big winter fish will be outnumbered by the rats and good numbers of 6-10kg fish. All this depends on the east coast current, but if early indications from the sea surface temperature charts are anything to go by, this summer is shaping up to be a good one following on from one of the best winters of bluefin, then spring run of yellowfin tuna, we have seen in a while. CHRISTMAS WISHES Another year has come and gone, and high on your Christmas shopping list should be some good quality fishing gear to help you kick some piscatorial goals. For all round inshore and estuary, I love the diversity of the Bushy Lure Legend Range designed by the man with the big moustache, Kaj ‘Bushy’ Busch and Ian Miller. The SP 792 1-4kg rod paired with a good quality 2500 spin reel with 6-8lb braid will deliver the goods from bream, to reds, flatties, salmon, bonito and rat kings. At 7’9” you’ll cast a mile, and at around $125 it won’t break the budget. Whatever you’re after this Christmas, I hope the fat man in the red suit is kind to you. There are no better prawns than fresh Lake Illawarra prawns. With the prawns comes popper time over the flats for bream and whiting when the traffic is low, which generally means mid week but it is well worth it for the fun. The breakwalls of the lake have some decent salmon and tailor in the evenings and even a few small mulloway. Minnamurra is much the same with good flatties all along its length and some very nice whiting down around the entrance.

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This is a fantastic time to get out on the water and chase a few fish. Even though we’re about to start

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the waterways will be receiving less than normal angling pressure. In the rivers, bream, whiting, flathead and mulloway will all be viable targets and light boating traffic will always equate to better fishing. Being on the water super early or late in the afternoon will only add weight to success. Bream and whiting will be keenly seeking food from the surface this month in the form of skittering, fleeing

Thornton recently snared a PB mulloway over 15kg working his lures around an active tailor school feeding on the surface. You will undoubtedly lose a lot of gear working the tailor schools but mulloway have a magnetic attraction to them and are usually close by. Yet again the Clyde has produced another whopper snapper of 7.3kg that was captured near the Nelligen Bridge. Each season there seems to be at least one 6kg+ snapper

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Eurobodalla Visitor Centres . . . . . 1800 802 528 Moruya Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . (02) 4474 2300 Tackleworld Moruya . . . . . . . . . . . (02) 4474 4381 prawns, cicadas and other insects. And what better way to attract their attention than to flick a few surface lures around the shallows. There are a multitude of lures that fit the bill and the local tackle shops are in the know with what’s working and where. As a general rule, the longer stickbait profiles work with a quick and erratic retrieve and cup-faced poppers or cicada imitations need to be worked slower with plenty of lengthy pauses between twitches of the rod tip. Mulloway have been on fire of late with heaps of fish taking plastic lures and soft plastic vibes. The big fish that were around a few months ago have gone a bit quiet but there are plenty of 6-7kg fish about. Anglers continue to show restraint and have been releasing most of these majestic fish to provide the next angler with the ultimate thrill. Local angler Scott

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This little yellowfin engulfed a stickbait on the first cast, a top way to start the gamefish season. The big fish should be on the cards too this month. you can expect the big tailor to make an appearance. Tailor to 4kg and bigger are possible through the dark, particularly on big strips of bonito fillets, which can excite a prowling mulloway from 5-30kg. Offshore currents should be boiling now and full of pelagic fish.

and this will be the month to chase them. Inshore the kingfish have been busy eating jigs and baits in the 40-60m depths, and should now also be found on the shallow grounds. Last season the kings seemed to set themselves up on the inshore reefs for several months so

Ray Smith with one of two mulloway that snaffled a River2Sea Fish Candy. Both fish were released. captured well upstream. Off the beaches there has been a good run of 1.5-2kg tailor mixed in with the salmon schools. Lures worked through washy gutters seem to produce more fish through the day than bait and they are far more exciting. Once the shadows start to fall bait will become a better option and by nightfall

A recent trip with mates aboard Top Cat Charters revealed some early 21ºC water that produced a nice little rat yellowfin on the first cast with an Ocea stickbait. The rest of the day yielded only striped tuna but the sighting of several sunfish and multitudes of birds. The signs are all there for the gamefish to fire right up

here’s hoping they do the same again this year. The bass season now will be in full swing with top water lures the way to go. Cicadas have been in full swing for a while now and they really fire up the bass’ aggressive nature, making them easy to hook. Getting them out of tight cover however is another thing!

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DECEMBER 2013

Fish smarter not harder NAROOMA

Stuart Hindson stuart@ausfishing.com.au

Over the next few weeks Narooma’s population will swell to 25,000+ people

making it extremely busy in town and out on the water. With the increased boat traffic that Christmas brings, anglers fishing the estuaries will have to fish a little smarter not harder. Getting on the water early

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will certainly help when fishing Wagonga Inlet and the surrounding lakes. The waterways will be busy with jet skis, ski boats and the like so an early start will reap you rewards. Wagonga Inlet has fished well of late, which should continue. There have been some huge flathead caught; the best l’ve heard of lately went a massive 96cm, now that’s a beast! Unfortunately the fish was killed, but hopefully one day it will get through to ALL that killing these breeders will only do harm for future stocks in the long run. There’s also been an increase in mulloway captures, mainly by bait fishos, with several fish being caught around the 6-7kg bracket. While guiding at Wagonga recently I’ve marked a lot of mulloway up around the tailor school edges but they haven’t really responded that well to artificials, especially soft plastics. That should change over coming weeks as the water warms further and the bait thins out. That’s why mulloway are a challenge; they’re not easy to catch but once you do come up trumps

A typical sized school mulloway of 78cm. There should be plenty of these fellas around over coming weeks but you’ll need to put in the hard yards. type of fishing is great fun and will only get better as the water warms further. Upper Tuross is firing up nicely. The flatties have been good in the river section with bream and estuary perch chewing amongst the snags. Casting lightly weighted softies and shallow-running hardbodies has worked a treat. The lower sections have been solid for

baits to use. For the guys who target pelagic species off the stones, this month is ideal. Bonito, striped tuna, kingfish, salmon and big tailor are all possibilities with lures and live bait the best methods. Casting lightly weighted ganged pilchards and slowly retrieving them will also pay dividends. Mystery Bay to the south of Narooma would

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A couple of nice estuary perch from the Tuross River prior to release; expect a good season from this under-rated sport fish. the long hours targeting them are all forgotten. Anglers after bream will do well in the lower sections of the channels from the main bridge to the bar entrance. Anchoring up and using berley on a draining tide should see some solid fish caught. You can expect whiting, trevally and the odd flounder as well. In the upper reaches, bream and whiting will respond well to surface presentations, like poppers and walk baits. This visual

mulloway, with bream and whiting starting to spread out on the flats. This action will continue and I expect this summer to be a cracker for this under-rated system. On the rocks, drummer, blackfish and bream will still call the suds home, but a lot will depend on conditions. Fishing a ledge with white water is perfect; the rocks at Dalmeny are spot on for this, especially if the seas are calm. Using fresh cabbage, cunjevoi, cut crabs and prawns are the better

be the pick, but the rock ledge at the golf course is worth a look too. The northern end of the breakwall also holds good quantities of salmon, especially on the run-out tide. Offshore sport fishers will be in heaven with a plethora of species to target. Kingfish are very popular with anglers, and they won’t be disappointed. These hard fighting brutes are around and in decent numbers. Montague Island has been excellent with kings to 8kg

common. Live bait and jigs have worked, although on different days different techniques will work. It pays to stop at the bait grounds below the golf course rocks, the day you don’t is the day that livies work and not jigs. I’ve made the mistake before and it’s not worth it! There have been reports of kings off Potato Point and Moruya, so if the island is a little slower there are other options. A little further outwide, albacore and school yellowfin tuna to 30kg have been captured, mainly trolling skirted pushers and larger bibbed minnows. The fish have been along the shelf line, but your success will depend on water conditions and temperature as to their particular location. It won’t be long before the marlin turn up too. There’s already been a handful of fish hooked off Bermagui, with a report of a 90kg fish landed, which is great to see so early in the season. If the game species aren’t for you then the bottom eating fish will keep you happy. Like down south, the snapper have been good, with fish to 2kg common on most inshore reefs. The southwest corner of Montague has fired as well, so expect some sizable morwong and tiger flathead. Off Kianga and Dalmeny in 35-40m of water there have been excellent captures of sand flathead. They have been patchy but once you find a patch, bags can be reached pretty easily. The added bonus here is that the stinking leatherjackets are gone for the time being, meaning less gear lost and more fish in the boat. I expect this action to continue right through December and onwards. Hopefully the weather will be on our side to let the local and visiting anglers get amongst them.

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Estuaries firing up MERIMBULA

Stuart Hindson stuart@ausfishing.com.au

It’s a busy time of year around the Merimbula region with the holiday crowd, but some exceptional fishing will still be on offer, especially offshore. The last few weeks have been excellent for those anglers targeting reef fish. Most species have played the game, with snapper, morwong, sand and tiger flathead and kingfish all having a chew at times. The snapper fishing is awesome, with most switched-on crews getting a dozen-plus fish every trip. The reds are averaging 1.5-2kg, with the odd better model pushing 5kg. They are widespread, with most reefs holding fish, though Lennards Island and Long Reef have been the pick of late. The snapper are responding well to a number of techniques. Bait fishos are doing well on fresh squid, pilchards and mackerel fillets, but the eye-opener is how many snapper are falling to soft plastics fished hard on the bottom. A few locals have

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

got this wired and their results are truly amazing. It seems that these rubbery lures can catch just about everything. Using plastics is definitely a cleaner proposition, and the results speak for themselves. With the water temperature rising with each passing day, kingfish numbers have increased. Fish to 6kg are common. Both jigs and livebait have been working, and fresh squid fished with a flasher rig are also getting results. There have also been reports of kings on the surface smacking bait, so a unweighed livie or popper should produce a fish or two. A little further offshore, good albacore are readily available from the 70-fathom line and further east. I expect some decent yellowfin tuna to turn up too, and it won’t be long before the first marlin is captured. There have been a few already captured north of us so it won’t be long before the game season really kicks in. Trolling skirted pushers is the go-to method early in the season, especially with the majority of marlin being stripes. You get to cover a lot of ground which you need to do early in the season. Look for temperature breaks, tide lines and bait activity,

especially bait down deep. A decent sounder is paramount for this. ESTUARIES In the estuaries the fishing is firing up nicely. Both Merimbula and Pambula have been good, but Pambula has been the real stand-out. You can expect flathead, bream, blackfish, whiting, trevally and monster salmon. I had a guide there the other day who produced 8 different legal species with around 40 fish caught for the morning session. That’s solid fishing for one guy. This type of fishing will continue right through summer, with bait and lure throwers getting amongst them. At the moment the fish are pretty concentrated, with the water a coolish 16 degrees, but they will spread out as the water warms further. I’d be looking around the main basin, concentrating in water 3-5m along the ribbon weed edges. There will be a few monster flatties getting active too, so please do the right thing and let these breeders go. They are too valuable to catch only once. BEACHES The beaches have been consistent but not red hot.

Jessie and Jack with a quality salmon. The best way to boost your catch rates is to fish the tides around the peak low-light periods. Some solid bream and whiting are succumbing to pipis, live beach worms and tuna cubes. You do have to fish light for them, and using a little berley helps as well. The better beaches have been North Tura and the entrance to Pambula Lake. If you’re after salmon and tailor, the usual paternoster rig is the go. Most local

beaches are holding both species, with Tura maintaining a deep gutter to the northern end. Those casting chrome slices off the stones are in for some fun; this month is a gun time. There have been kingfish, big salmon, striped tuna and a few frigate mackerel getting around. Early morning is definitely the peak time, and if you can coincide that with a falling or low tide, so much the better. A few local lads are

kicking butt on the smaller tuna, catching them on tackle you’d associate with bream rather than tuna. These guys have been blown away a few times but they’re having a stack of fun in the process. If a decent-sized king is for you, a livebait fished under a balloon may do the trick. I’d be looking at Tura Head or Long Point for best results. I hope you all have a safe and Merry Christmas, and tight lines for 2014.

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DECEMBER 2013

Go the raw prawn TATHRA

Darren Redman djsestuaryfishing@bigpond.com

One of the amazing natural events that occur every year along our coast is the annual prawn run, which is good news for anglers and fish stocks. For anglers, more prawns means more fish with most of the estuaries around Tathra hosting just as many fish as prawns. The Bega River is the go-to safe place for anglers and prawners, with Nelsons Lagoon, Wallagoot or Wapengo Lakes also carrying their fair share of stocks. For those who wish to chase prawns, Wallagoot Lake south of Tathra is now land-locked, hosting some

very big specimens with easy access. The Bega River is even closer to get to and hosts plenty of prawns; although not as big as Wallagoot they are just as tasty. If you like your fishing as much as prawning keep some of your evening’s catch of prawns fresh or preferably live and get out at daylight in the Bega River using them around weed beds, drop-offs or the many rocky outcrops for species such as flathead, whiting, bream, estuary perch or mulloway. Other baits that will also work well are nippers, live mullet or squirt worms. Those wishing to use lures should try matching the hatch. There are lots of prawn imitation soft plastics out there at present that work really well.

Moving further up the Bega River where the salt meets sweet, the terrestrial insects are in full noise, often losing their way, ending up in the drink and eventually bass tucker. The brackish freshwater sections host plenty of bass only too willing to attack a fly or well worked lure. These fish

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the many species hanging around. Species like slimy mackerel, yellowtail scad or silver trevally are great fun for young and old, while larger species like tailor, salmon, bonito or kingfish will attract the attention of more seasoned anglers. Out at sea, the boaties are also having their share of entertainment. Whether trolling the coast looking for pelagics like kingfish, striped tuna, bonito or salmon, or bottom bouncing for beautiful succulent flathead, tigers and sandies, Tathra is renowned for providing the fish. If you’re after game fish, tuna species like yellowfin or albacore and even early season striped marlin or mako sharks are all out there awaiting you. Have a safe and Happy Christmas and New Year, see you in 2014.

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are focused on insects like cicadas or Christmas beetles making them a perfect target for surface lures or fly. Late evenings or early morning are prime times, and if the cicadas are in full noise, these fish will actively feed all day. Brogo Dam, 40 minutes north west of Tathra, is full of bass that are well on the chew providing plenty of action for anglers who are notching up cricket scores. Remember this will be governed by weather conditions; warm balmy evenings mean good fishing, cold southerly winds means stay home. Even though the rivers and lakes are firing there are lots more to areas to explore around Tathra. The local wharf is a hot spot and, with school holidays not far off, will become a hive of activity as anglers source

weather and water having already fired up the fish stocks, so are you ready for it? So where should you be concentrating your efforts and what should you be looking for? If you like fishing estuaries we have many on offer within our area, all of which are hosting an array of different species. Flathead are at the top of the list at this time of year with most systems being home to prawn stock creating a readily available food source for the flatties. There are a variety of prawn imitation lures available that will all work well. Fishing on the last of a run-out tide, or the first of the incoming early morning around the edges of weed beds, sandy drop-offs or rocky points should be all that is required to secure these great fish. Wallaga Lake being one of the prime areas. Those who prefer baits will do well on live prawns (gathered the night before), fresh nippers or live mullet. The mullet bait will also do well on other species moving throughout these systems, like bream, trevally, whiting and luderick. For those who like to don a pair of waders, grab

There are plenty of flats and shallow areas in Wallaga to sight cast at quality bream. a net and light to venture out into the dark. They will undoubtedly secure themselves a good feed of juicy fresh prawns; cook the prawns in the water you catch them out of to improve the flavour. The fishing activity is not confined to shore, out on the briny there are plenty more fishing opportunities. For those who like to reef fish, the close reefs just slightly southeast of

Bermagui are within easy access for an early morning fish before the winds come up. Here anglers are likely to encounter some of the many reasonable snapper hanging around, and also encounter both species of morwong, pigfish, nannygai and a few mid-size kingfish. Around the fringes or further out over the gravely sandy areas, tiger Continued page 52

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DECEMBER 2013

December delivers good news MALLACOOTA

Chris Wright

MALLACOOTA Great news for Mallacoota anglers is that work has begun on two projects that will benefit them.

The first is that the ocean access boat ramp at Bastion Point – this is great news for people like me who rely on reliable ocean access. The second is the construction of two artificial reef structures that will be deployed

in the lower lake near Goodwin Sands. These artificial reefs will be a great starting point for local and visiting anglers alike. In other lakes where they have been deployed, the reefs have been a hub of activity for

Vibes and blades are a great way to catch good numbers of bream, this one came from 12ft of water. From page 50

flathead are very prevalent with most anglers taking very little time to achieve a good bag of these tasty fish. There are also sharks

snapper, mulloway, flathead and bream. Mallacoota should be no different. In fact, the mulloway fishing in the lake has been great recently, even without the artificial reef. Fish up to 25kg have been taken in all parts of the system – the river, Top Lake and Bottom Lake. With the entrance open at the moment, summer whiting have already moved into the system and will be a great target in December. Lure anglers can target them with blades or topwater poppers and bait anglers will get best results from nippers or sandworms. With the whiting will come plenty of yellowfin bream into the system and these will make up a fair percentage of bream caught in the lower lake over the next few months. At the recent ABT final held in the lake there were already plenty of nice yellowfin showing them-selves from the Bottom Lake. The town itself is gearing up for a huge summer and the visitors will have plenty of fish to catch over the warmer months. EDEN T h e r e ’s plenty happening offshore from Eden over the next few in these areas in the form of gummies or small whalers, so once you have your bag of flatties go to some larger baits to try and find them. Up at Montague Island

Murray battled this great bream from the snags, after a well-presented hardbody lure. months and December is when the kingfish schools start to get bigger. You can tell when the kingies are on the chew, as there’s usually a fleet of boats in the area, all sharing the fish. Noone seems to mind bumping gelcoat to get a crack at these fish, which seem to be getting more abundant each year. Check out between Mowarry and Green Cape and you’ll soon find the depth the fish are holding, and the boats that are chasing them. They’re not that fussy when it comes to techniques – jigs, plastics or livebaits will all get eaten. Local reefs will also be prime for chasing snapper and morwong at this time of the year, as well as flathead down south between Gabo

Island and Mallacoota. If you’re chasing a big dusky flathead, Wonboyn would be my recommendation. There’s always some big girls kicking around there, as well as the usual mix of bream, tailor and estuary perch. The Whale Festival at Eden was a huge success – with awesome weather one day and atrocious conditions the next. If nothing else, the blow reinforced the need for a longer breakwall in Eden, with several trawlers suffering from the conditions. Land-based anglers will enjoy some pretty good Australian salmon fishing on the local beaches, with Haycock and Quandolla being the pick of the bunch.

tuna are always a possibility. Lures are the way to go at present as you can cover more water to find where the fish are located. Try running a mix of swimming and surface lures; this way you will work out what they prefer, along with giving yourself the best option of an early season billfish. This season is shaping

up to what will hopefully be a good game fishing year so the only way you will find out if these marlin have turned up is to be out there ready to tangle with one. I would just like to wish all out there a safe and Happy Christmas and New Year. See you in 2014.

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Operations target illegal fishers A 43 year old commercial fisher from Ulladulla is facing tens of thousands of dollars in fines and possible imprisonment after allegedly being caught trawling through the Batemans Marine Park, during the October long weekend, Glenn Tritton, Director Fisheries Compliance, said today. “Fisheries and Marine Park officers from the south coast were out in force over the October long weekend as part of Operation DPI X-ray 13, targeting people fishing from vessels in the Brush Island and Murramarang Sanctuary Zones and land based fishing in the Murramarang Special Purpose Zone of the Batemans Marine Park,” Mr Tritton said. “The commercial fishing vessel was apprehended trawling approximately four kilometres south- south east of Brush Island, within the General Use Zone of the Batemans Marine Park. Trawling has been prohibited within all zones of the Batemans Marine Park since 2007. “Fisheries and Marine Park Officers boarded the vessel and ordered it to retrieve the net and return to port at Ulladulla. “The net was found to have approximately 200kg of fish including ling, tiger flathead and sand flathead. “Fisheries officers seized the cod end portion of the net and the catch and were able to return more than 130kg of fish to the water, while the remaining 65kg of fish were able to be sold. “Unregulated trawling is known to cause damage to

sensitive reef habitats as well as devastating impacts on by catch.” The man will be issued Court Attendance Notices for fishing in a sanctuary zone, possession of fishing gear capable of taking fish in a sanctuary zone, taking fish by method of trawling in Batemans Marine Park, harming fish in a sanctuary zone, possessing fish that has been taken in contravention of Marine Parks (Zoning Plan) Regulation 1999 by trawling in the Marine Park and unlawfully using a net with rubber bobbins that were greater than 100mm in diameter. The maximum combined penalties total $132,000 in fines and/or 12 months imprisonment. Fisheries and Marine Park officers also detected another 44 offences over the course of the long weekend including 32 people found fishing in the sanctuary zones, fishers found fishing without a recreational fishing fee, failing to have a recreational fishing fee in their possession and being in possession of rigged fishing gear in a sanctuary zone. Officers also seized a number of fish illegally taken in a sanctuary zone, which were returned to the water alive. “Fishers are reminded to make sure they’re aware of the fishing rules and regulations before they go fishing. Batemans Marine Park signs are displayed at most boat ramps, and maps are available from DPI Fisheries Offices, Batemans Marine Park office at Narooma, fishing tackle shops, tourist information

centres and online at http:// www.mpa.nsw.gov.au/bmp. html,” Mr Tritton said. “A number of patrols were also conducted across inland waters during the long weekend. Fisheries officers from Bathurst and Dubbo conducted patrol activities along the Lachlan and Macquarie Rivers and Lake Cowal. “A number of fishers were apprehended including a commercial fisher and a recreational fisher at Lake Cowal for failing to mark their set yabby traps correctly, a 60 year old man from Pomona in NSW in possession of yabbies carrying ova (eggs) externally and a 36 year old man from Euabalong West in possession of 9 excess lines in his vessel.” Fisheries Officers also found and seized 10 illegal fish traps on a property near Kiacatoo downstream of Condobolin, and will continue to target offenders using this illegal equipment. Other seizures include 10 fish traps, 9 rigged lines, 2 Murray cod (52cm and 53cm in length) and 1 silver perch. “Fishers should be aware that the use of excess lines and fish traps are prohibited in NSW and that heavy penalties apply,” Mr Tritton said. “Fishers are also reminded to pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee and ensure they carry a valid receipt (fishing licence) with them at all times while fishing, diving or collecting or face a $200 on the spot fine, or a penalty of $75 if you do not have the licence in your immediate possession.” – NSWDPI

FADs entice fish and fishers to NSW coast Fishers and fish are expected to be drawn to the NSW coast this summer thanks to a series of fish attracting devices (FADs) being reinstalled along the NSW coast. Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Manager Fisheries Enhancement, Dr Heath Folpp said these devices are strategically placed at key fishing spots each year over the warmer months to enhance recreational fishing opportunities. “Twenty-five fish attracting devices are in the process of being deployed to entice popular fish species such as mahi mahi and marlin to the NSW coastline for the enjoyment of recreational fishers,” Dr Folpp said. “Ten FADs have already been deployed off the NSW north coast and off Sydney and the remaining FADs will hit the water in the coming weeks.

“Monitoring has shown these devices are extremely effective at creating new high value fishing opportunities.” FADs are yellow, spherical buoys with a flashing beacon for safe navigation, which tend to attract surfacedwelling fish such as mahimahi and other fast growing oceanic fish. The devices are designed to withstand harsh coastal conditions and are deployed between 9 and 32km offshore. Their locations may fluctuate slightly depending on wind, swell and current direction. Dr Folpp said the FADs program is just one of the many initiatives that uses funds from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust to improve recreational fishing across the State. “Funds raised from the sale of recreational fishing licenses in NSW is placed

into trust and this money can only be spent on projects that will enhance recreational fisheries in NSW,” Dr Folpp said. “More than $130 million has been spent on projects to improve recreational fishing for the State’s avid fishing community to date and these FADs are just one example of how licence fees are used to benefit fisheries across NSW.” Full details of where each FAD is located can be found online on the DPI website www.fisheries.nsw. gov.au. People who use FADs are asked to abide by a code of conduct that can be found on the DPI website and anglers can now sign up for emails to alert them of the locations of FADs and other relevant information. – NSWDPI NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Chasing cod in rivers with lures BATLOW

Wayne Dubois waynedubois@westnet.com.au

With the 2013/2014 Murray cod season now open I decided it was timely to discuss the subject of lure fishing for Murray cod in rivers. Back in the day to talk about luring cod I would have to start by going on about the best trolling tactics. Trolling was the ‘gun’ technique that pretty much everyone used.

How times have changed! These days more and more anglers are converting to casting lures as often as is possible. It’s no wonder, because Murray cod are ambush predators that sit on their chosen snag and wait until something strays too close – then the cod will launch itself out, hit the prey and get back to the safety of its snag. This can all happen in a matter of seconds. It makes sense, therefore, that casting lures into all the little nooks and crannies of a snag is far

more likely to elicit a strike than a lure that is trolled along the outer edge of a snag. The other beauty of casting lures to snag-dwelling Murray cod is being able to aggravate the fish into striking by annoying the fish with lots of casts. Even if the fish is not hungry, you can make it so annoyed that it will come out and attack your lure out of territorial aggression. A strike from an angry Murray cod is bone jarring to say the least. It is for these very reasons

that on most occasions casting lures will reap more of a reward then trolling lures. SPINNERBAITS The undisputed king of river lures for Murray cod is the strange looking but very effective spinnerbait. These wonderful lures work equally well on the troll as they do on the cast, and their ability to ride over snags is second to none. Add to this the fact that they sink and can be fished all the way through the strike zone, and you have a lure that’s very

Two trips in a row the author caught fish casting spinnerbaits into the little pocket on the inside edge of this snag. If you chose to troll this snag you wouldn’t be able to get your lures where the fish are mostly holding there for decreasing your chances of hooking fish.

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A beautifully marked Upper Murray River cod. Note the cluster of snags the fish was caught from, it just screamed cod and could only be fished by casting and retrieving lures. hard to beat and an absolute must-have. When lure fishing in any river the first thing you have to consider is how fast it’s flowing and how deep it is. To fish your spinnerbait effectively, you have to match its head weight to the river’s flow. You want the lure to be light enough to be in the fish’s face for as long as possible, but not so light that it’s swept downstream by the current. Generally speaking, in low flows you might get away with a 3/8oz spinnerbait, and in normal flows a 1/2oz would do the job. In high flows you might need to step up to a 5/8oz or even 3/4z if it’s flowing really hard. Most anglers, particularly

those new to casting lures, use tandem spinnerbaits, usually double Colorado blades (wide, teardrop-shaped blades). These lures displace a lot of water with their large thumping blades, and this makes them good in lakes and dirty water because it helps fish detect and home in on the lure. However, in a river situation – particularly a fast-flowing river – these spinnerbaits grab too much water or take too long to sink. That means you have to cast a long way upstream and allow your lure to sink down into the strike zone while allowing for current. This can cause all sorts of dramas, but mainly a big belly in your line as it sinks.

Another cod taken on a single willow blade Outlaw spinnerbait. Single blades, especially willow blades, cut through the water better then conventional tandem blades making them far more effective spinnerbaits in fast flowing rivers. Also note the contrasting jighead colour, which gives the lure more appeal and another thing for the fish to hone in on. 56

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

It makes it difficult to detect bites, and the line can also drag over and get snagged on submerged timber without you realising it. The other reason I don’t like the double Colorados, even in lakes, is that they can scare more fish then they catch – especially on highly pressured waters. Natives are fascinated by spinnerbaits and will follow the big double Colorado spinnerbaits, but often they won’t hit them. Chances are they’ve been caught on them several times before. I almost always use single-bladed spinnerbaits these days. They get the fishes’ attention and, because of their size and more natural flash and vibration, they seem to get hit more then they get followed. Many other notable guides and tournament anglers catch far more Murray cod more regularly on this style of spinnerbait. When fishing rivers my first choice is a single copper willow blade (a narrow blade that’s pointed at both ends). This colour blade is a good all-rounder and works equally well in both clear and dirty water. If the water is really dirty I may opt for a gold willow blade, and at times I use a silver or black willow when the water is crystal clear and the fish have been copping a hammering from anglers. A good thing about using a single willow is that this narrow blade style slices through the water better on the drop, allowing your lure to get into the strike zone fairly quickly. That means you can cast right into the area you think the fish is holding, and allow the spinnerbait to sink right in its face without the fear of the lure being swept downstream. When retrieved, these lures have a very nice action that Murray cod and most other natives just can’t resist. And once you get used to this style of spinnerbait you can ride them through even the gnarliest of structure without getting snagged too often. When choosing a skirt colour I recommend using natural colours in clear water. While darker colours can work well in clear water as well, they Continued page 57

Luring in lakes for Murray cod BENDIGO

Roger Miles codhuntertours@bigpond.com

Catching Murray cod on lures within our lakes can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. There are a huge number of anglers each season who spend large amounts of time targeting Murray cod in many Victorian and New South Wales lakes systems. Whether you are fishing Lake Eildon, Lake Hume, Lake Eppalock, Kangaroo Lake or Lake Mulwala all of these locations have their own sets of challenges. With the terrain being very different from one location to another it often takes a considerable amount of skill and knowledge to be able to produce consistent results when targeting Murray cod in different locations. UNDERSTANDING MURRAY COD Like any other form of fishing it is critical to have a good understanding about the characteristics of the species of fish you are targeting as an angler. Murray cod are a species that are very lazy in their nature. Their level of aggression is hugely affected by the barometer. They can be very territorial one day, but not the next. They are ambush feeders and will often ambush prey from a

wide variety of structure. Murray cod will take a lure out of three main responses. The first is a feeding response. This is when a lure is presented to the Murray cod in such a way that it represent a food source. The Murray cod then comes out and strikes the lures in order to eat it.

Single-bladed, lightly dressed Bassman Spinnerbaits are one of my favourite lures for lake cod. The second is a territorial response. This is when repetitive casting or trolling of lures past resident Murray cod provokes a strike. Often the strike from the Murray cod is intended to chase the intruder away. The third is an instinctive strike. This is when a perfect cast is placed very close to a resident Murray cod and without hesitation instinct kicks in and the Murray cod inhales your lure. The size of this strike zone can vary greatly from day to day. On

Note the bank in the back ground that has all the structure. Whether you are casting or trolling stick to the river edges where all the structure is, you will increase your chances of hooking a big cod or two ten fold. From page 56

really come into their own in dirty water. A dark spinnerbait will stand out better then any other colour in cloudy water, making it easier for fish to spot from further away. Another tip that I swear by is to use a jighead colour that contrasts with the skirt colour. If you’re using, say, a black and red skirt, use a yellow or white jighead to stand out against the dark coloured skirt. This will give your lure even more appeal, because it makes it easier for the fish to spot and home in on it.

some of the toughest days fishing that strike zone can be a small as a few centimetres. IS IT ABOUT SPOTS? Unfortunately this is a mistake that is commonly made by many anglers. Some very good Murray cod anglers fall into the trap of fishing their favourite locations too

TROLLING If you’re not into casting for whatever reason, you’ll find that trolling the aforementioned spinnerbaits in the right areas will also account for plenty of Murray cod in a river. Most cod-holding snags, drop-offs, root balls, undercut banks or big trees are along the edges of the river, so when trolling be sure to stick as close to the bank as possible. That’s unless you happen to find a submerged mid-river snag, in which case try to make your lures go right in, over and around it.

often on a regular basis. This is human nature; if you have had good success at a particular location, then you go back there thinking you will catch more fish at this same location. Murray cod are susceptible to fishing pressure and they do get educated. I believe that every time a Murray cod is caught and released they learn from that experience and they become harder to fool with an artificial lure in the future. Murray cod are no different from people, some fish are smarter than others. Also, just like with casting, you can annoy Murray cod to hit out of aggression. If you find a good snag or stretch, be sure to keep turning around and going over the area, back and forth until you annoy the fish into striking. Arguably the best and most consistent areas for trolling for Murray cod are on the outside bends of rivers. The exception is when the river is in very fast flow, in which case the inside of the bank may be the best place to look for fish trying to get out of the fast current. It is also worth noting that if the river is running high and fast, the Murray cod will most likely be found holding on the back side or downstream side of snags where there is a little calm eddy. However, in the lower flows the fish feel more at ease and can often be found sitting on the front or top of snags, waiting to ambush anything that drifts or swims by. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to lure fishing for Murray cod in rivers, but it should still help you hook a few more Murray cod this season. Good luck, good fishing and tight lines.

Managing to catch a large Murray cod is a great test of your skill and knowledge as an angler. A good location only remains a good location if it receives minimal fishing pressure. My job as a fishing guide relies on my ability to read the water and fish new areas on a regular basis so clients can manage to catch Murray cod. Thus the name of our business is Cod Hunter Fishing Tours with ‘hunter; being the most significant word as this is what we try and teach our clients - the ability to read the water and continue to hunt new areas in search of Murray cod. STRUCTURE When targeting Murray cod in our lakes, structure is a very critical ingredient for anglers if they want to catch Murray cod. Timber is a favourite form of structure. This timber comes in several different forms. Fallen timber, or lay me downs as I like to call them, provide great habitat for Murray cod and often have several key holding points where Murray cod will take up residence. The most productive holding areas are on the root systems of the fallen timber. Any areas

The Jackall Doozer is a must have lure. Worked slow this lure is a prolific fish catcher in lakes. where two branches separate and create a V are excellent holding areas. Also, any cross up timber (this is where you have a combination of vertical and horizontal timber meeting) is always worth a look. Small trees or shrubs can be productive structure for targeting Murray cod. These can often be found in lakes that experience large fluctuations in water levels like Lake Eildon. After periods of decreasing water levels followed by good rises in water levels, usually during late spring and early summer, these new forms of structure can provide great habitat and are excellent holding areas for Murray cod. Large standing timber is also very good habitat for Murray cod. However this form of structure is often

ignored by many lure fishers to the detriment of their catch rates. Rock structure can be prevalent in some locations, yet non existent in other lakes. The most common form of rock structures are rocky shorelines. These areas can be productive locations to cast or troll when targeting Murray cod with lures. Ledges and drop-soffs are areas that are not often targeted by many anglers when chasing Murray cod. They can be prevalent in some lakes where there are many points or changes in direction around the shoreline. Rivers and creeks are prevalent within the majority of our lake systems. These areas can be difficult to locate Continued page 58

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Big green fish are the pinnacle of lake fisher’s dreams when it comes to cod. This Lake Mulwala fish is a prime example of getting it all right. From page 57

when they are inside the lake. These river and creek systems do provide current flows throughout many of our lakes and therefore carry good volumes of food and are favourite holding areas where good concentrations of Murray cod can be located. Weed beds and shoreline vegetation are terrific areas to target Murray cod. Many anglers choose not to fish these areas as they can be difficult to fish with weed often fouling lures. Skilled anglers know that the inconvenience of regularly clearing lures is worth

the effort as some terrific Murray cod are caught off this soft vegetation. Shoreline vegetation can be very productive; this vegetation can be of a wide variety. The root systems of willow trees and cumbungi lined banks are a couple of my favourite types of shoreline vegetation. WHERE TO FISH This is often determined by water temperatures and whether water levels are rising or falling within the lake. Often early in summer water levels are still rising and water temperatures are increasing. During this period the best concentrations of

bait are in these shallower margins. This is where the greatest concentration of Murray cod will be located. In locations like Lake Mulwala this can be in depths as shallow as 3-6ft. During the middle of summer water temperatures can get very warm, and combined with a reduction in water levels the concentration of Murray cod reduces in these shallower margins. In autumn we will often see a short period where good concentrations of Murray cod move back into these shallow margins again. Then in late autumn and winter the cooling water temperatures produce a

migration of bait from these shallow margins into deep water, and the Murray cod follow. There is a common saying amongst anglers: Find the bait, find the fish! This is true for many species. FAVOURITE LURES FOR MURRAY COD There are a wide variety of lures that are currently on the market for anglers who are targeting Murray cod. My recommendation for anglers is to buy a good selection of different types and styles of lures so your options are covered. When fishing spinnerbaits for Murray cod I prefer to use small low profile spinnerbaits. Over two decades of fishing

this style of lure I continue to produce my best results when fishing single bladed spinnerbaits. Copper blades have been a terrific option for me over the years. Bassman is my preferred brand and Glen Casey is a master of making these lures. His range of colours is very impressive and he has an option available for any conditions. I also use the Jackall range of lures when targeting Murray cod and a couple of my current favourite options are the Doozer and TN65 models. The Jackall range of lures continues to grow and many of their models such as the Jackall Squirrel and Muscle Deep are very

Surface luring at night anyone? Give this a go, but make sure you’ve got the OK from your doctor first and you’re not prone to panic attacks! Addictive fishing at its very best.

productive, but under used by anglers targeting Murray cod. A favourite hardbody brand continues to be Custom Crafted lures made by Steve Kovacks. Steve is a master of his trade and he is one of only a few who are still making timber hardbody lures. Models such as the small Hammerhead and Lumo Diver have been consistent over the years. I am looking forward to using some of Steve’s new models; I have had some input into the design and development of these lures for the 2014 season. There are also a growing range of surface lures available for targeting Murray cod. Anglers should try and have a range of these, from paddlers to poppers to stick baits and buzz baits as they can all be good on the right day or night! Anglers want to build a range of lures so they can fish in depth ranges 2-40ft. Colour selections can be important and the challenge of working out what they want to eat is not an easy one, but it is a rewarding one. There’s nothing like landing quality Murray cod followed by a couple of quick photos, then releasing that fish to fight another day.

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Puzzling world of redfin and trout CANBERRA

Bryan Pratt

Anglers are still puzzled about the activities of two of our local fish groups this year. The first is redfin, which to date have largely been a no show. Redfin normally are the first of our local fish to emerge from the winter torpor but this year are still playing silly beggars, staying in hiding. We recently ran a local redfin competition and 60 anglers fished their hearts out for two days with bait and lure for just 13 small fish to 27cm. There should have been thousands of them but we still don’t know where they are or why they aren’t biting. Oxygen levels and water temperatures are okay. They aren’t dead and haven’t been eaten, so what’s behind the no show? Any suggestions would be appreciated. The other puzzle is the almost total lack of fish for

the trout opening. It was a dreadful long weekend, with virtually no fish in major rivers such as the Thredbo, Eucumbene and Murrumbidgee and just an occasional brown for many hours of flyfishing, bait fishing and trolling in Jindabyne, Eucumbene and Tantangara. Many anglers

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Since the opening, the behaviour of most anglers has been laudable. The only downside I heard of was when a group found some late-spawning rainbows and not only caught them but killed them to take home. They would have been useless to eat – soft, flabby and unpalatable. A complete waste by anglers who should know better. NATIVE MOVEMENT By contrast, the golden perch have been going gang busters. They came on the bite in Canberra’s local lakes and Burrinjuck in late September and have been actively taking lures and baits ever since. Top baits have been scrub worms and small yabbies and the best lures have been spinnerbaits, bibless minnows, Mask Vibes and especially the incredible Burrinjuck Specials from Stuckey Lures.

smaller lures and baits and generally doing the right thing, but as always the cod, frisky as ever during

their breeding season, insisted on getting hooked. These fish were freed and released as gently as possible and we made sure there was no publicity given to captures. Now that the season is open, anglers can make up their own mind as to whether or not to kill a cod. Most anglers I know don’t kill them, but it is a personal choice. FLYFISHING SOARS BY LEARNING Visitors to the ACT often comment on the high proportion of flyfishers in the local angling community. There’s a good reason for that – an abundance of teachers who work free or for a small

fee. Throughout and just outside the ACT in NSW there is an extraordinary number of anglers who have discovered the joy and productivity of flyfishing and who are willing to pass on their skills to new anglers. I teach every Saturday and have had thousands of students over the past 45 years and I don’t think I have ever had a failure. Flyfishing is that simple. Sometimes 30 minutes of tuition is all that is needed to get someone on the path to an entirely new form of fishing. Some of my students also have gone on to greater heights, becoming involved in highlevel competition casting

Leanne Cowan with her first-ever trout on fly, caught at the conclusion of her flyfishing course at Rainbow Springs.

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Some of the fish have been absolute monsters – one caught at Burrinjuck was 69cm in length – and all have been in good condition. The closed season for Murray cod went well. Many anglers tried not to catch them, avoiding known habitats, using Golden perch have provided top sport since coming on the bite in September.

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reported at best one brown for 13 hours of fishing. The speculation is that a major flood just before the opening swept the river fish back into the reservoirs and the subsequent low barometric pressure kept them off the bite. Again, suggestions for the failure would be welcomed.

Women make good flyfishing students, preferring gentle, accurate casting to overpowered, long-distance casting that many males try instinctively to do.

and becoming teachers in their own right. The local Canberra Anglers Association and ACT Fly Fishers also do some good work, donating their time and energy in ensuring newcomers get plenty of useful tuition. The CAA in particular run free casting classes for the public on the three Sundays prior to the opening of the trout season each year and these are heavily patronised. Sometimes, we get a special guest teacher such as Tasmanian Peter Hayes, a 10 times Australian Casting Continued page 61

Bring out the big guns

as good or possibly even better then last season. There were some absolute cracking Murray cod caught last season, with the pick of these being caught by persistent night trollers. Good numbers of smaller fish can be caught during the day either casting or trolling, but the really big fish are very hard to entice while the sun is up. These bigger fish are best targeted

encountered gorging themselves right up in the shallows. During the day it’s best to troll your lures as close to the bottom as possible to give yourself the best chance of enticing a strike. At night, a lure that runs shallower and even in mid water will often give you a better chance of connecting to a fish than a lure that runs along the bottom. There are exceptions to

this, as there are in all things fishing, but at Blowering Dam in particular this trend seems to be pretty consistent. LURE CASTING Casting lures rather than trolling them is becoming much more popular on the freshwater fishing scene, and this is most evident at Blowering Dam. Around 10-12 years ago you would rarely (if ever) have seen someone casting lures, but now it seems every third or fourth boat is giving the casting a go. If you have never done it, I highly recommend it because the strike from a big Murray cod whilst retrieving your lure is second to none. Sometimes it feels like you have been shocked or even slapped, the hits are that violent! If you are fainthearted I probably wouldn’t recommend it as the adrenalin goes into overdrive and the heart almost always skips a beat or two – not just when the fish first hits, but also when you first see the true size of the beast you have hooked. In saying this, I still haven’t described just how awesome the feeling is of that first big strike from a big native. Trust me, once you start this type of fishing you will be hooked. You’ll find it hard to go back to trolling. The best lures for casting at Blowering while targeting Murray cod are the everreliable spinnerbaits. These fish see a lot of spinnerbaits so I strongly recommend the use of single-bladed spinnerbaits. These spinnerbaits will still attract the fish but they won’t scare them in the process. Other reliable casting lures are the under-used chatterbaits and the hard-to-beat lipless crankbaits. If you want to target Murray cod specifically, use 90mm-plus lipless crankbaits. If you want to hook golden perch and redfin with the outside chance of a Murray cod, lipless crankbaits around 60mm are ideal. LEARNING ON THE FLY If you have caught Murray cod on every conceivable lure and bait, and you’re looking for a new way to challenge or better yourself as an angler, why not try catching a Murray cod on fly this season? Flyfishing for Murray cod is not as hard as people will have you believe. You just cast

From page 60

good example is Peter Walsh, a dedicated flyfisher who runs Rainbow Springs, a comprehensive flyfishing school just over the border in rural NSW. He takes raw beginners right through his detailed flyfishing course and at the end the students get an opportunity to test out their new-found skills, fly casting to wild browns and rainbows in his lovely, clear, spring-fed lakes. The fish weigh up to

5kg and it is a delight to watch students hook their first-ever fish on fly. Even if they don’t land it, it is an experience they will never forget. Consequently, if ever you are coming to the ACT and would like to learn to fly cast, let me know beforehand and we will make sure you get an opportunity to learn about the most fascinating form of fishing in the world.

BATLOW

Wayne Dubois waynedubois@westnet.com.au

Now that the Murray cod season is finally officially open, it’s time to break out the big lures in hope of that fish of a lifetime. Over the past few months the target species has been golden perch, but this will change this month as anglers switch from small lure presentations to large ones to increase their chances of hooking into a Murray cod or two. If the amount of bycatch Murray cod over the last month or so is anything to go by, this season is shaping up to be

at night. Trolling for Murray cod during the day requires a different technique from trolling for Murray cod at night. The reason for this is that most cod sit close to or right on the bottom, and almost always near some sort of structure, during the heat of the day. Yes, they will still feed if something comes close enough, but they generally won’t chase anything too far from the safety of their chosen snag. On the other hand, under the cover of darkness Murray cod feel much more at ease, leaving the safety of their snag to cruise around in search of food. They can be found hunting in mid-water at times, and they are frequently

The author’s other half with her PB Murray cod from last season. If the amount of bycatch Murray cod over the last couple of months is anything to go by, this season is shaping up to be a cracker.

Champion. Peter spent a week in Canberra this year before the opening, giving a series of lectures and running classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced casters. Every event was heavily booked and we look forward to having him visit again next season. Some commercial operators also provide top-flight service. One

Ross Virt of Kaos Cod Flies with a small Murray cod he caught while flyfishing last season. Catching cod on fly is fast growing as a sport and is much easier than you might think. your flies into exactly the same places as you would your lures, and you retrieve them in a similar way. Simply cast to your chosen snag, weed bed, drop-off or other suitable fish-holding structure, allow your fly to sink into the strike zone, then slowly and methodically strip the fly back to your feet or the boat. On some days, fast, constant strips are what is needed, but generally the most productive approach is a slow but steady strip with the odd pause to allow your fly to sink back down into the strike zone. You don’t need to be able to cast a million miles, either, because when fishing for Murray cod you often only need to cast short distances to cover the small snag that you think the fish is holding on. To learn to cast the short distances required for catching Murray cod, you can just teach yourself or watch an instructional DVD or YouTube clip. You’ll pick it up in no time at all. Just like lure casting, once you start this form of fishing you will find it hard to do anything else. Until next time, good luck, good fishing and tight lines.

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lakeside and beachside haven that is the beautiful Central Coast of NSW – barely an hour from both Sydney and Newcastle. The Central Coast is a perfect destination for fishing, boating, surfing, bush walking or just simply

relaxing! All Parks are also conveniently located close to local attractions and facilities such as cafes, restaurants, cinemas, shopping centres, and playgrounds. Central Coast Holiday Parks have plenty of

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Preventing the spread of WATER WEEDS Can’t see the fish through the weeds? Don’t let your favourite spot get like this.

Help prevent the spread of water weeds! WHAT ARE WATER WEEDS? Water weeds are invasive plants that pose a threat to the economic, environmental and recreational value of our waterbodies.

HOW DO THEY AFFECT ME? Water weeds can form large floating mats, dense submerged thickets or extensive stands along the bank. They create poor water quality conditions affecting the diversity and abundance of fish and other aquatic life. Heavy infestations restrict watercraft navigation, prevent access to fishing spots, foul fishing gear and make it difficult to land fish. Water weeds can be spread by fishers and boaters. Propellers and anchors can cut plants into fragments and spread them within and between waterbodies. Fragments can spread from an infested waterbody to a weed-free waterbody by attaching to watercraft, trailers and fishing equipment. Some weeds can survive considerable time out of water and a single plant fragment can start a new infestation. WHICH WEEDS ARE CONSIDERED A PROBLEM? Weeds such as alligator weed, salvinia, water hyacinth, water lettuce and

cabomba can have serious impacts on the health of water systems, as well as restrict access for recreation (e.g. boating and fishing). Recent outbreaks of water hyacinth on the Dumaresq river near Tenterfield and alligator weed on the Namoi and Peel rivers near Gunnedah and Tamworth raise serious concerns about the invasion of water weeds in the Murry/Darling river system. HOW CAN I HELP? WHAT SHOULD I DO? You can help reduce the spread of water weeds and prevent new outbreaks by:

SALVINIA (Salvinia molesta): a floating water weed.

WATER LETTUCE (Pistia stratiotes): a floating water weed.

WATER HYACINTH (Eichhornia crassipes): a floating water weed.

CABOMBA (Cabomba caroliniana): a submerged water weed.

ALLIGATOR WEED (Alternanthera philoxeroides): an emergent water weed that can also grow on land.

• Inspecting and removing any plants from watercraft, trailers and all equipment before leaving a site or launching at a new site. • Learning to recognise water weeds. Be on the lookout for new or unusual water plants. • Avoiding weed-infested waterbodies and stopping the engine in infested areas. • Reporting suspicious infestations using the contact information at the bottom of this page.

Inspecting and removing water plants from watercraft, trailers and gear can help reduce the spread of water weeds.

Report to your local council weed officer or NSW DPI on 1800 680 244 or email weeds@dpi.nsw.gov.au Further information on water weeds can be found at ww.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Trout still trumps JINDABYNE

Steve Williamson swtrout@airlan.com.au

It’s December already and the first official month of summer. For some, summer came early this year but for us in the mountains we actually had a cool spring and it’s in over recent weeks that we have had warm weather. With that in mind, and the fact that Lake Jindabyne’s water level is still fairly high, the water temperatures have remained quite cool so the surface trout fishing is actually

very good. Boat trollers are experiencing good fishing with some excellent conditioned rainbow trout. It’s normal over summer to get out of bed before sunrise and make certain you have lines in the water at first light. However with cooler water temperatures you may be able to stretch your surface fishing into mid-morning before you have to go deeper using downriggers to get your lures to about 35ft where the trout are lying. For boat trollers, the usual techniques of fishing on the surface in shallow water at first light and then moving out into

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deeper water using lead core with 20-30m of line out will extend the better fishing well into the late morning. Use minnow lures early, before sunrise, and then switch to Tasmanian Devil lures later in the morning. The best colour Tassies to use will be darker lures early with the number Y48 yellow wing red nosed brown bomber, or even Y94 are great. Try the yello wing Tasmanian Devils a little later as the sun is about to rise over the horizon. Number 111 Tasmanian Devil Lure ‘Willies Special’ (named after some trout fishing guide in the area) has been a very good lure over recent weeks and always a summer winner with poor trout! Minnow lures like Rapalas or StumpJumpers in brown trout and rainbow trout patterns are also good. There are many good brands of lures on the market that will do the job if you know what speed to troll to get the best action out of the lures. Try not to mix and

Robert Bell with a decent brown trout. Local scrub worms have been the best bait. Tassie or my Steve Williamson red nosed yellow wing. As the sun gets higher then it’s time to get the lure lower into the water and lead core lines or downriggers are the way to go. The best lures to try and catch those trophy brown trout will be small minnows and you need to troll these over the weed beds using longer dropbacks (to 80m) and lighter line

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match different brands as no two brands of lures will work best at the same speed. Trying to run a Tasmanian Devil and a minnow lure for example will not get perfect results from either lures at the same time. After the sun hits that water, it’s time to change to a number 36, Y82 yellow wing

or braid to keep the lures at the deepest depth possible. Do this well before the sun comes up to get the bigger fish. Lake bait fishing has been nothing but excellent for months now, but as the summer heat hits us and the water temperature around the edges of the lake warm up, the best fishing may again be early in the day at sunrise. You may also find that it will be worthwhile fishing later in

the morning and at some time of the day the fish are coming back on the bite and you just need a line in the water to catch them. Local scrub worms are best for brown trout while artificial baits of various colours are proving itself for rainbow trout and salmon. If you want to catch yourself a big brown trout then the best baits are still going to be a well presented scrub worm and these are fished with a greased line to stop it from sinking into the weed and getting caught up. Mudeyes, the dragon fly nymph, are a popular summer bait but this year with the cooler conditions and dams full of water they are harder to collect. You might find that purchasing ‘local’ mudeyes may be difficult and when you do find them they are going to be at a premium price. There are artificial alternatives these days that will still catch you a trout, all you have to do is fish them a little more actively so you make them look as if they are alive. There are no fishing spots much better than others at the moment. The trout are cruising the margins of the lake so they can be in one place one day and another the next. We are going to be in for an interesting flyfishing season this year. The lake water levels are great at the moment and the lake will fish well, especially in the shallows early morning and into the late evening if we get some evening hatches of insects to excite the trout into feeding. The best flies have been green or olive flies like Hamills Killers, small shrimp patterns and olive nymphs but there might be a little dry flyfishing at night after the hatches, so keep that in mind. A mayfly

or caddis pattern is well worth having in your collection. The river and stream flyfishing was a little slow getting started this year but now that there are more insects, beetles, caddis fly and grasshoppers about, we have had some very good fishing. With all river flyfishing, it all depends on the temperatures of the day as to how the waters fish. And a little bit of experience is often needed to get the best out of your fishing, so if you’re a little unsure then it might be time for a lesson on stream craft. If you like throwing lures into rivers and streams, you will need to make certain the lure is getting close to the bottom in the running water on the days that are bright and sunny. Your best fishing again will be early and late in the day. In the middle of the day, fish the deeper pools and make certain that you are getting down to the bottom. The longer you can keep the lure down there the better chance you will have of catching a trout. Don’t forget soft plastics in the deep pools can be very effective on trout. Lures like Celtas, Vibrax Spinners, Wordons Rooster Tails or Gillies Spinners and of course minnow lures like floating Rapalas are all good for river fishing. The Strike Tiger plastics have a great selection for all your fishing needs. A new little lure that has been great on the rivers is the new Bullet range of lures and these now come in two sizes with the larger one better for the lake or larger stretches of the river like on the Thredbo River. Let’s hope the summer season is a good one with regular rain to freshen up the streams and cool the water.

LAKE LEVEL

For latest updates on levels go to www.snowyhydro.com.au December roundup:.......... Best of the best! Best method:...................... Lake trolling Best depth:......................... Surface lures early and late in the day. Best lake lure:.................... Tasmanian Devils with yellow wings or holographic. Best lake area:................... East Jindabyne Islands and Creel Bay. Best fly method lake:........ Hamills Killers, Williamson’s Gold Fish and in dry flies brown mayfly. Best river fly:...................... Beetle, grasshopper and mayfly patterns. Best river spinners:........... Rapala Scatter Raps, Celtas, Vibrax Spinners and Gillies Hoppers. 64

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Snatch a quiet moment in the crazy season LITHGOW/OBERON

Glen Stewart stewie72@bigpond.com

December can be quite hectic for most, but if you’re really organised it can actually be a little quiet window of opportunity to go fishing! Cod are pretty high on the list at this time of year so it’s usually Wyangala for a sneaky camping trip. Casting spinnerbaits, and heavy structure are the key to catching cod at Wyangala. Logs and rocks in combination are also good places to start. Ease your boat into place, and try to position it so that you can cover multiple casting options; some like to go for the honey-hole first up others work their way in. I must admit I am the ‘honey-hole first’ kind of guy. I look for a likely visible spot where a cod may sit, such as a junction point between two logs crossing, a spot where rock meets log, and the shaded side of the largest part of the structure.

Taking some quiet time just before the Christmas rush with the Wyangala cod. A good mate of mine Roger Miles from down south is the best I have seen at reading cod structure and he has really opened my eyes on thinking a lot more about presentation before casting. Non visible structure, i.e. under the water, is a little bit harder to judge and I guess the guys who like to fish their way into a piece of visible structure are fishing this first.

It’s probably not a bad idea to alternate between the two theories, as on different days or different times, cod can be sitting deeper or shallower on any given piece of structure, so keep this in mind. Trolling is your best option to attack deeper structure, especially if there is a large amount of it at the same depth for quite a distance. For best results

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think before you cast out the back; lure selection can be critical. What depth does your lure run? Do you want the lure pounding into the structure? Do you want it to just to lip out on the highest piece or do you want it to pass over the top by a few feet? Does the depth vary greatly between the inside lure and the outside lure presuming there are two of you in the boat? So many questions… A good piece of trolling advice I picked up, and something I always refer to when tolling, is to drive the lure not the boat. Modern high-tech sounders will help when trolling. I am constantly looking at the sounder and adjusting the lure when trolling. Do repeat runs on good structure, adjust or change your lures to suit, and after a few runs you can build up a pretty good picture of what is down there. BASSIN’ Bass on surface lures are always high on the Xmas list. It takes a little while for the water to warm around these parts, so I always make the mistake of fishing Lake Lyell too early in the season, too keen I guess! But by December things should well and truly be on the go

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creeks and rivers can be a very good option for some trout fishing. Snakes can be an issue for some people, but I never let it stop me from going anywhere; just fish with a mate and make him go first! Flyfishing the dry fly can be very productive with good hatches of black spinners, caddis, and beetles. Matching the hatch can be very important so make sure you have a good supply. A jump up or down in size can make all the difference to some fish. Watch the pools from a distance before moving in, it’s amazing what you pick up while sitting back. Plan your approach and make your first presentation count. Hope to see you on the water soon, until then tight lines.

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for bass. Small crucian carp are a big ticket item for bass at this time of year. They are very active at low light periods, just before sun up and sun down, so this is the time to be on the water. Constant slow retrieves with paddlers can be deadly. Missed strikes can be frustrating, so don’t stop your retrieve after a strike, keep winding slowly as quite often they come back. I am absolutely dying to give some bent minnows a go down there as I reckon they will work a treat. These things have an action like no other lure, I can see why the bream and bass guys down on the coast are raving about them. TROUTIN’ ABOUT Depending on water flows and temperatures, the

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State Parks DECEMBER 2013

All clear on the dam front other bait. Up at the Barringtons the trout are starting to get quite active with some decent fish being caught on bait and lures and with quite good water flows it should be a good season. In the lower Hunter and Paterson rivers this month, it is best to target the bass around low light periods on surface lures, especially where there is plenty of bankside vegetation. As the light increases move to the more open banks and walls that are adjacent to the deeper water using blades, deep hardbodies and beetlespins. The Williams will also fish well leading up to Xmas with plenty of bass coming from up near Clarencetown on lures and bait. They’ll also be down around Glenoak along the more heavily timbered banks and gullies that run into the river. This river has always been good for decent numbers of bass caught, but not necessarily big fish. I have always had a lot of success using fluoro coloured lures, gold pattern blades, spinnerbaits and

MAITLAND

Dave McLean djfmclean@bigpond.com

It’s been a bit late arriving this year but summer is just starting to affect the water temperatures; the nights were quite cool towards the end of spring. The water temperatures at Glenbawn and St Clair are about 4°C lower than previous years and both dams are experiencing very clear water. During late October, we received some of those absolutely strong westerlies that made getting out on the dams totally impossible. I have found that after these days, the dam turns over in the open areas, so I like to target the backs of bays and into the deeper gullies that feed into the dam. The rivers down around the lower reaches are fishing better now, but in early October they were fairly slow. This was due to a lack of insect activity and no freshwater came down to stir up the prawns and

lipless crankbaits. Lostock dam and the adjacent river below have been producing some quality bass and this should continue over December. Surface lures and lipless crankbaits are a good option for the dam, but in the river, hardbodies, spinnerbaits and beetlespins are better. At Lake St Clair the dam has been very slowly falling and because of very low water temperatures during spring, there is some weed forming but it is not prominent. If you can find some nice weed you will also find the bass, but I have noticed that they are not in very good condition, which is a sign that they are travelling a lot in search of food. The school bass are also very hard to find as they have been out in open areas and down only about 10m, which means a lot of sounding to find them. I have found that

the Island and Baybuck Cove are two places to try with blades and lipless crankbaits. Over the eastern side, if you try up the gullies very late or early mornings surface lures should get you a few bass. Up the Carrowbrook, there is not much weed at all so targeting the deeper drops and hidden timber is about the only option using plastics and deep lures that get down 6-7m. Good colours for lures are purple/red and plastics pumpkinseed and crawdad copper. Up the Fallbrook there is a bit more weed forming and most of the fish have been coming from the 5m deep areas where there are patches of deep weed on long sloping banks. The ideal lure for this type of fishing is the weedless plastic on a 1/4oz jig but my favourite is the Jackall Knock-in Jaw. I retain the W hooks as it makes it better for

Les Dunn a local with this impressive silver that fell to a TN60 up around the Panhandle at Glenbawn. and the odd golden. Lake Glenbawn can be very clear, especially if there has not been much wind. The fishing can be a bit tough, particularly around the banks, but the increasing water temperature should help improve things. Over past weeks there

fish down around the 8-10m out off the banks. There havev been some good bait schools up the back of the dam at the Panhandle and around the Ruins. These bait schools move into the shallows in low light and go out deeper as the day brightens. Work the shallows early

Left: The Lowrance Insight Genesis showing a section of Fallbrook that the author has been mapping. On the right, is the bottom where the cursor is, which can be moved anywhere along the trail. This is an excellent tool to locate areas that might hold fish. Right: Bass feeding along a bank near fresh weed starting to form in around 12ft.

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both the Lowrance log sonar and the Insight Genesis are very valuable tools to assist in locating the fish. I have nearly completed mapping sections of the Fallbrook and Carrowbrook reaches and now can see contours in 1ft levels, vegetation (weed) and also bottom hardness and have been able to plan where I can target the fish. Down around the Broadwater the fishing has been quiet. However, around

the weed. If there has been some really strong winds then up the back of Reedy Cove around some of the weed is a very good area, especially very early and late in the day. Baitfishing around Kelehear Point off the banks, as there is weed in close, has been producing some nice catties on worms. This should carry through over Xmas, while around some of the trees in the 10m areas, using live shrimp will produce some bass

have been some reasonable catches by the baitos, using live shrimp around the heavy timber, of bass and also silvers. There are not a lot of schools of bass around at present, so working areas around any form of weed and cover is the best option. Lipless crankbaits, chatterbaits and spinnerbaits are the lures to use in this situation and in the heavy weed plastics rigged weedless. With the water so clear, quite often you will have to

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DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

Trev Gabriel, who travels up from Nowra to fish at Glenbawn, with a 40cm+ bass that fell to a TN50 Brown Dog Jackall.

with surface lures and progress to deeper water with plastics, blades and crankbaits. Around the more heavily timbered areas let spinnerbaits and lipless crankbaits fall alongside the timber or rocky walls. Another good area to try this month can be around Castle Rock where you can work 5-10m with deep lures and spinnerbaits, and trolling can be very productive. The back of the dam is a hot spot this month but further down the dam around the Narrows and Yellow Buoy Bay can also be very good, especially in the early and late parts of the day. This area lends itself to trolling as there is plenty of good deep cover to troll over and around. The entrance to Boat Harbour, Golden Point and the Sunken cabins are also good trolling areas and also good spots to drop a bait down around the timber for goldens and bass. Remember to keep an eye on the weather patterns this month, especially if you are heading up the back of the dam as the wind usually hits after lunch and blows from the southeast, which can make the ride across the bay very dangerous.

Time to chase those great big green fish YARRAWONGA

Tony Bennett codclassic@bigpond.com

Passing time chasing golden perch is almost over as we can get back to targeting the elusive green monsters that lurk in magical Lake Mulwala come December 1. Excitement and anticipation that leads into a new cod season for all true blue anglers is on par with being a kid at Christmas time! Whether it be a pilgrimage to the iconic fishing festival, the Lake Mulwala Cod Classic with thousands of others or sneaking off to a secret

backwater, it’s time to pack the gear and get ready for take off. Traditionally early season fishing throughout Lake Mulwala sees plenty of 60-70cm cod about for those who put in the effort pre-Christmas. The warm early summer evenings with little wind present the perfect opportunity to try your hand at surface fishing. Come Boxing Day and the arrival of speed boats and water lice, (jet skis), things slow a whisker but the adventurous angler who gets away from the increased boat traffic will still find pleasant returns. It’s exciting looking at a few new gizmos and gadgets

that will make an impact on Murray cod and Lake Mulwala this season. The most exciting thing for me is the new Lake Mulwala mapping system available from Chartered Waters. Having every creek, lagoon, depression, channel and snag available in unbelievable definition will be an invaluable tool for all lake fishers. Available for either your fish finder, iPhone or iPad, this innovation will see you exploring new grounds with extra confidence. After doing a trip to the Australian Lure Expo earlier in this year in Qld, I can see the wheel slowly turning for those looking to get back into

using genuine handcrafted timber lures. Names that will be hot on the lips will be Gidgee, Secret Creek, Garra, Gobsmacked and Chamo’s to name a few. Along with the timber lures, some incredibly lifelike creations from Zurek Lures in the form of their soft plastic prawns and cherabin will create plenty of interest. This season set yourself a few new goals and try to tick off as many as possible, Be it something as simple as stepping up from bait fishing to catching a cod on the troll, or a cast spinnerbait, through to the use of soft plastics or surface fishing, challenge yourself to become a more

Big opening blast at Blowering WAGGA WAGGA

Scott McAuliffe

December 1 marks a special day for many of the native fishos around the riverine; it’s the opening of the Murray cod season! And with a little a bit of luck the local systems should reward many of those die-hard cod fishers who haven’t wet a line for the last three months. Last year saw Blowering Dam deliver one of the best openings in its history with a huge number of 80cm+ Murray cod being reeled in; there were 12 fish over the magical metre mark. The last four weeks has seen this dam start to pick up from a native perspective with a large number of cod falling victim to those anglers targeting the resident golden perch on lipless crankbaits and small hardbodies. An upgrade to big spinnerbaits and 100mm+ hardbodies should see anglers rewarded. The Murrumbidgee and Old Man Creek have really started to pick up over the past month or so, and they are both shaping up to

be an almost sure bet come the 1 December. Both bait and lures have been working equally well so whether you plan on drowning a yabby or some worms or casting medium-sized hardbodies and spinnerbaits you should be rewarded. Keep in mind that while the river will be the most reliable place to ‘get on the board’ with your first cod of the season, your chances of hooking a trophy fish are much less than if you were to fish Blowering or Burrinjuck. Purple/black or red/black spinnerbaits are very reliable and should be the first colour to be tied on. The colour schemes apply to hardbodies along with the ever-reliable Forbes Special hardbody. EUCUMBENE December in the mountains usually offers a variety of different options and, provided you have a few techniques up your sleeve, you can generally find fish most days. From a lake perspective your focus should be on early mornings and late evenings, there tends to be some pretty warm days throughout December and this can shut the fish down (or at least send

Prospecting wind-blown shorelines with lures is without a doubt the best lure-casting technique for Eucumbene. The churned up, muddy water gives you great cover and you only need to be able to make 5-10m casts to have your lure in the strike zone! It’s worth the effort. them deep) during the middle of the day. Lure and fly efforts should be tailored to grassy or muddy banks close to deep water as this is where the fish will come to feed during these periods of low light. Dark coloured soft plastics have been the standout lure over the past two months; fished very slowly along the bottom with a subtle twitchand-pause retrieve has been dynamite. Most of the big browns that have been coming in have

The author was lucky enough to land this 10lb 72cm brown on a recent trip to Eucumbene. This fish was hooked using the slow, twitch and pause retrieve.

been full of yabbies and this is more than likely why the said retrieve has been working so well! Don’t be afraid of using 3” plastics if you’re chasing the big browns. I have been trialling bigger plastics in the lake recently with a lot of success. This retrieve also works well with Woolly Buggers and other similar fly patterns. Bead Head nymphs in black and brown have also been a bit of a hit with rainbows for the last few weeks. Trolling has been okay around Buckenderra and Frying Pan, as we move closer to Christmas this will more than likely slow down considerably. Yellow winged lures and minnow patterns like the Rapala 5cm will always work well, but lipless crankbaits are really starting to produce good results, especially the silent versions. While the opening of the rivers back in October was a bit of a fizzer, we will hopefully start to see some dry fly action on the Eucumbene River this month. Nothing is ever guaranteed though so be sure to carry some nymphs if you plan on hitting the river and if you have to come across a hatch make the most of it while you can.

Cooper Bennett with a 60cm cod taken from the surface. Not a bad effort for an 8yo! rounded angler. Fishing below the weir is always fun, especially if you are dangling a bardi grub or juicy scrub worm. Numbers of fish below the weir always outweigh the lake but general size is much smaller. All is in readiness for the

Cod Classic. It is still not too late to enter and all indications point to what should be another amazingly successful event. For all enquiries call Tony on 0357 441667 or drop into Lake Mulwala Fish Camp and Ski, the official Cod Classic store.

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DECEMBER 2013

Cracking Christmas cod capers ECHUCA

Ian Page

At last, the start of summer and, more importantly, the beginning of the new cod season. The warm weather, steady water levels and rising water temps all equates to excellent angling conditions. There are three target fish this summer: cod, yellowbelly and redfin. Firstly, Murray cod are a great sporting fish and a top target species for many anglers. When bait fishing, either from a bank or boat, pick a spot with tree cover. These fish are very territorial and will stay around the snags to ambush their prey. I use a running sinker rig with just enough weight to hold bottom, a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook and approximately 300 leader. Although baits will vary during the season, the long time proven baits are scrub worms, yabbies, shrimp, which are in good numbers this time of year, and of course bardi grubs, either fresh or frozen. When trolling, it is important to have a lure capable of getting down to the bottom, so you need to

match your lure to the depth of water. Keep an eye on your sounder and change lures when necessary. Some popular lures are Oar-Gees, Custom Crafted, Predators and StumpJumpers, along with many others on the market. Use the same lures when casting around snags, as well as spinnerbaits. Be prepared to cast repetitively in the same area as sometimes these fish are not in the mood to eat but with continual casting they

will attack just to get it out of their domain. The methods are similar when you’re chasing yellowbelly but everything is downsized; spinnerbaits and lipless crankbaits are coming into their own in smaller streams and channels. There have been some great reports coming into the shop of yellowbelly in big numbers around Kow Swamp, the Gunbower Creek and the Murray above

Torrumbarry Weir. I’m still hearing of good catches of redfin in the Campasp and the channels, as well as the Goulburn River near the Murray mouth. Small yabbies are great bait and if trying lures give the plastics a go, they give great results on light gear with these good fighting fish . So take advantage of our great summers along the Murray and get out amongst them.

Cod are a great sporting fish and a top target species for summer.

FISHING FILL-ITS

DPI and LHPA staff on hand during bushfire NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, said extra staff from the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Livestock Health and Pest Authorities have been deployed to help stock and companion animal owners in areas currently affected by bushfires. Ms Hodgkinson said these employees are currently on hand at a number of evacuation centres across the fire zones to assist with the relocation of both livestock and companion animals. “DPI, as the Agriculture

and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), continues to support Rural Fire Service (RFS) operations in the Sydney, Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, Central Coast, Illawarra and Southern Highlands areas,” Ms Hodgkinson said. “Staff are assisting in a number of Emergency Operation Centres, evacuation centres and are continuing field assessments/ emergency support in fireaffected areas. “Staff from the State Coordination Centre at NSW DPI head office in

Orange have been tasked to supply staff to the Lithgow and Richmond evacuation centres to assist evacuees from the Bells Line of Road and arrange accommodation for livestock, horses and companion animals. “In particular, in the Richmond area, arrangements are in place that large animals, like horses and livestock, can be taken directly to Hawkesbury Showground. “Companion animals will be placed at a range of accommodation sites once their owners register at the North Richmond evacuation centre.” Ms Hodgkinson said

arrangements are in place for the care of all animals arriving at any evacuation centre. “The AASFA has engaged a number of supporting specialist animal agencies to carry out the care and assessment of animals in all fire-affected communities,” Ms Hodgkinson said. “These include the RSPCA, WIRES, Animal Welfare League and Heavy Horse Heaven. These specialists have been providing care to horses and wildlife in a number of areas. “Staff have also made contact with landholders and

stock owners on the Bells Line of Road to ensure they are ready and able to assist their animals for the coming fire conditions. “Preparations and support agencies to assist animals are in place for the coming days amid predictions of worsening conditions.” For more information on evacuation centres and relocating livestock and companion animals call the RFS hotline on 1800 679 737 and visit www.rfs. nsw.gov.au for up-to-date information on fires in NSW. – Primary Industries

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Bait angling proves best ROBINVALE

Rod Mackenzie codmac@bigpond.net.au

From Swan Hill to Mildura and beyond it’s a similar report along the Murray River. Most locations are producing good numbers of golden perch in the backwaters on bait. Anglers are finding it easy to catch a feed in the warm spring flows, and few if any bait has been better than scrub worms. Shrimp are now starting

to show as the water temperature continues to climb. They have also proven to be good bait, especially when fished vertically amongst the snags. The technique is simple enough, just thread a single shrimp on the hook and lower it down amongst the snags where it is slowly bobbed up and down. You continue to move the bait along the snag, covering ground until a fish shows interest. It’s a very productive method and not bad fun either. In our local waters, the

Jock Mackenzie with a typical bait-caught golden perch along the Murray River. Good numbers of these fish are biting between Swan Hill and Mildura.

only lure fishing success I have heard of this past month has been in the Kerang Lakes. Lake Charm has been the pick of these, with good sized golden perch caught both casting and trolling. Some solid redfin around the 1kg mark have also been landed on lures at both first and last light. A little heads up for the coming cod season is the incidental capture of several good sized cod in Lake Charm this past month, with all returned in good condition. A little further afield, the Darling River has yabbies on the move, with most anglers who have been trying their luck able to manage a feed. Some good golden perch are also on the chew in the Darling, and once again they’re being taken on bait as the water clarity is quite poor. As we run up to the start of the cod season, many anglers are wondering what the early season conditions might be like. With most catchments full to bursting and a big river running at present, anything could happen. However, it’s a fair chance that water clarity will remain a little dirty. You shouldn’t be deterred by this though, as we have caught plenty of good cod on lures in conditions that were far less than perfect. For those anglers who like to drown a grub or two, it will be business as usual because water clarity has little effect on this method. It will be interesting to see how the Robinvale weir pool fishes this year as the fish ladder is operational, providing rite of passage for large cod that have been denied for a few seasons. With good flows in the river

Depending on water clarity, many anglers might be looking to fish bait in our local water come the cod opening. it’s my guess that we will be hearing some overdue but very welcome reports of big cod this season at

Robinvale and above. All up, things are looking good for the coming season, and with

A nice lake spun golden on one of the new Yellaman spinnerbaits created by Bassman.

PROTECT

YOUR BOAT

DAM LEVELS

Dam

% Full

Dam

FROM THE

HARSH

% Full

Blowering............................. 89

Glennies Creek....................... 94

Brogo................................ 100

Hume.................................. 91

Burrendong........................... 40

Jindabyne............................. 83

Burrinjuck............................. 65

Keepit.................................. 29

Carcoar................................ 63

Lostock................................ 87

Chaffey................................ 72

Oberon................................. 81

Clarrie Hall........................... 96

Pindari................................. 63

Copeton............................... 70

Split Rock............................. 86

Dartmouth............................. 99

Tantangara............................ 24

Eucumbene........................... 48

Toonumbar............................ 96

Glenbawn............................. 97

Windamere........................... 54

Glenlyon............................... 91

Wyangala............................. 67

(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.)

the spring flows prompting a breed perhaps all will be fishy for several seasons to come.

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DECEMBER 2013

What’s new fishing Powered by

OUTLAW’S BLACK WIDOWS

ACCUDEPTH ICV 1\5

The Black Widow from Outlaw Spinnerbaits is a new addition their range that will appeal to those looking to get the best silhouette from their spinnerbaits. Available in 9 colours, the Black Widow sports black blades, black head and a black skirt with dashes of colour. Available in three sizes (3/8oz, 1/2oz and 5/8oz) the Black Widows make use of Gmakatsu hooks to ensure solid hook sets when Mr Big jumps on. Quality swivels make slow retrieves easy, while the option of a stinger hook is also available. Great in rivers and lakes, the Black Widow range of spinnerbaits shows Outlaw’s attention to detail and quality. Price: $15.95 www.outlawspinnerbaits.com.au

Daiwa’s new ultra compact ICV line counter reel is designed for accurate trolling, downrigging and light jigging applications for bass, golden perch, trout and other salmonoids. The Accudepth ICV15 and 15L feature a digital readout line counter that measures the line let out of the reel in feet increments. A long-life lithium cell battery (3-5 years with normal use) powers this compact digital line counter model, and the counter lets you accurately target suspended fish or structure located on your sounder. By programming the reel with the correct line specifications (manual included with the reel) the reel will display various readouts. The screen displays the line out in feet, indicates the distance between the water surface/lure and has a bait timer alarm that automatically sets off an alarm every minute and/or starts when 23ft of line has been let out or the lure/bait has been in the water. The IVC15/15L has 3 stainless steel ball bearings plus one roller bearing, swept handle design for better balance and cranking power, and a one-handed clutch operation system. The smooth multi-disc UTD drag is ideal for light lines and helps keep fish on once they strike and are being fought back to the boat. The machined aluminium spool has a large light line capacity, making it perfect for a wide variety of trolling and light jigging applications where knowing exactly how much line is out can keep you in the strike zone. The Accudepth ICV 15 will be available from December. To view the full list of specs, visit the Daiwa website. Price: Too new! www.daiwafishing.com.au

DIZZY SCENT RANGE EXPANDS

Dizzy Scent is a fantastic product and one that works well. The new owners of Dizzy Scent have expanded from the 4 original flavours, which are still available today, to now include spray scents and a full UV range of scents. These cover every fishing situation, from bass and bream to snapper and kingfish offshore. The new Double Shot UV range (pictured) incorporates a full UV range including garlic, aniseed and ghost flavours. The team at Dizzy Scent have done a lot of testing on this product and are extremely happy with the results. Check out the full range at the Dizzy Scent website. Price: UV range from RRP $7.95 www.dizzyscent.com.au

DECEMBER 2013

FISHING DOWN UNDER DVD #33

BERKLEY SLOMO JIG

MAJORCRAFT RODS

The December edition of the Fishing Down Under DVD has an excellent segment on open water breaming with Steve and Jo Starling. Consistently catching big bream in open, featureless water may sound unlikely, but it can actually be one of the most effective techniques yet evolved for targeting these fish. Join Jo and Starlo as they show you exactly how it’s done, and teach you some sounder and GPS plotter tricks that will boost your results no matter where you fish or what species you target. Other entertaining segments on this DVD include fishing Ayr in Central Queensland, fishing in the weed in impoundments, using hardbodies in Merimbula, and chasing saratoga. As always, each segment is designed to give you all the information you need to improve your catch rates. Fishing Down Under DVDs are available in tackle stores and online. Price: $14.95 fishingdownunder.tv

Berkley SloMo jigs are specifically designed to be jigged with a slow rod tip action, or from a rod left in a rod holder allowing the boat’s rocking to work the jig. These jigs have a streamlined shape and are heavily weighted for deepwater work. The fish-attracting features include a squid skirt, holographic flash finish and moveable ball bearing spinning blade, all designed to work at the slowest of speeds. The design of the body increases fluttering action on the drop, and the replaceable double assist hook rig provides positive hooking and holding power. The colours in the range have been specially selected for all water depths, and combine UV and flash to attract all target species. Available sizes are 40g, 60g, 80g and 100g to suit a wide range of species and conditions. Price: from RRP $12.95 Berkley-fishing.com.au.

MajorCraft is the largest lure rod manufacturer in Japan, and these popular rods are finally available to Australian anglers. After reviewing hundreds of MajorCraft models, Australian distributor Frogleys Offshore has hand-picked a select range to suit Australian species, from smaller estuary style rods to larger offshore offerings and everything in between. For estuary and impoundment anglers, the Basspara range is beautifully crafted and features high quality Fuji components. Available in spin and baitcaster models, these rods start at $199 making them an affordable quality option. Lure casters off the stones or the beach will love the KG Evolution, which are specialist 9’6” casting rods suitable for all lure styles. In fact, all MajorCraft rods are built using high quality Fuji components, and the series covers a wide range of applications from estuary, to dam and offshore, and includes bait and squidding outfits. You don’t have to pay a fortune either, with price points suitable for all budgets making this series apllicable over a wide range of uses. With so many specialised models available at a reasonable price, you can get a MajorCraft rod for all of your specific fishing needs. Price: from SRP $199 www.majorcraft.com.au

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129

NSWFM

What’s new fishing Powered by

FEATURE PRODUCT Movtan Fishing App

FEATURE PRODUCT Live Target Baitball Series

There is a new fishing app that is going to make fishing at your favourite spots, whether it is local or worldwide, better: Movtan. The Movtan fishing app is designed to let you connect with friends and share your fishing experience and expertise on a global scale with the world around you. Movtan will tell you where other anglers around you are catching fish. With the Movtan fishing app you will have the chance to send messages to friends and see where people are fishing. This can help to give you an idea of where the best places to fish are and, when you reel in that perfect catch, you can take pictures and share them with the world. Another great feature is the chance to create events with specific locations. That way, all your friends can meet up for a day of fishing and relaxing on the water. You can see where others consider hotspots in the area with the search feature, and plan your event around the hottest spots in town. As you are looking at the map there are some important things to remember. To begin with, you are going to be the orange dot on the map, while your friends will be coloured in blue. If you notice a red dot, these are popular anglers in the area. It’s recommend you subscribe to them, as this will get you fishing updates. Without subscribing to other anglers you only see pictures and reports within your 200km radius, while those anglers you have subscribed to then get coloured green. A white dot is an angler who is publically viewable. When you are out on the water, updating your status and posting pictures to the public to see will allow them to vote for you. With

Live Target lures are well known as ultra-realistic bait representation, and their latest releases in the Baitball series are nothing short of spectacular. The schooling formation of baitfish amid the constant assault by predator fish is one of nature’s most complex fight-for-survival events. It’s the eternal ‘fight or flight’ law of nature. Safety is in the sanctuary of the bait ball, and these lures take full advantage of the baitfishes’ instinct to group together. This new series of lifelike lures feature multiple baitfish profiles inside the one lure. This concept has been applied to the 60mm Squarebill crank, 65mm Crankbait, 110mm SW Jerkbait, 120mm SW Jerkbait, 65mm SW Popper and the 75mm SW Popper. All of these lures give the appearance of a small group of fish (or bait ball), which has been separated from the main school. These little isolated groups of baitfish are exactly what predatory fish target and chase once the school has been disrupted, and they are exactly what the Live Target Baitball range imitates. Think about this for a while and you’ll start to appreciate

just how innovative this idea is, and how well it will work in many situations. Not only are you presenting a number of profiles to your quarry in one go, you are also presenting some of the most realistic finishes around – they literally look just like the baitfish. What predator could say no to these lures? Across the different lures there are a number of exciting colours to choose from, all being amazing in their detail and awesome in their appearance. I can’t wait to get my hands on some and throw them at barra, jacks, tailor, salmon, bass, cod, redfin – in fact the list just keeps going! The Live Target Baitball series is due in stores in early December, so make sure you check them out as early as you can. I don’t reckon stocks are going to last once people see them in the flesh. Price: from SRP $28 www.ejtodd.com.au

around the front of the car. Stephen Booth plugged the short jumper clamps into the box and hooked it to the terminals. Amidst horns and alarms blaring, I hit the start button and the engine roared to life. Matt Roberts from Mini Jump Starter assured me that I could start the car 6 or 8 times from that little pack, but he could have saved his breath – I was already a convert. I bought the unit from him the next day. The unit contains a lithium-ion battery that they say keeps a start charge in it for a full year, but I reckon that these units will get used more than that, because you can use them to charge your electronic gadgets, too. Boothy and I proved this the next day when we simultaneously charged two iPhones from the ‘squid’ style adaptor that comes with the smaller of the two units. But seriously, these are handy pieces of equipment. Apart from the ability to extend the life of your mobile phone battery, they’re compact enough to keep in a safety kit to turn over the donk when your cranking battery gives up the ghost when you’re 20

miles offshore. Both units also have a built-in torch, which is useful for hooking up to a battery in the dark. We tested this. You can keep them topped up with a 240V or a 12V charge cord (supplied with the unit) and you’ll never be able to blame a flat battery the next time you’re running late. You’ll have to be honest and say that you couldn’t leave them biting. The bigger unit had a carry case that contains a pile of adaptors and accessories for all your gadgets. The smaller one just ships with the jumper leads and the ‘squid’ of adapters. The only flaw I could find is that the ‘squid’ cable doesn’t work with iOS 7 on an iPhone (but it does with iOS 6). – Steve Morgan Price: $164.95 (Pocket II) to $184.95 (Pocket I) with free shipping Video: http://youtu.be/3LPCHJPi_Nc www.minijumpstarter.com Trade enquiries to Billy Brett on 0410 448 892

enough ‘Nice Catch’ votes you can be ‘Movtan’s Catch Of The Day’ winner. To vote, all you need to do is tap the Nice Catch displayed under the pictures second screen. Other features on the Movtan fishing app is the Distance Tool, which can help you determine distance between two points, the Tide Checker to let you know if conditions are ideal and a quick Weather Checker. Keep in mind that if you don’t want to share all this information with the world, there are location security features you can use. These features restrict access to your information updates, pictures and location finders to those people you have chosen to view them. You can even make your favourite hotspot personal and avoid the crowds. If you are looking for the best new fishing app on the market, head on over to the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store to download Movtan Fishing. This is a powerful app that is going to be incredibly useful and will be something that you and your friends continue to use each time you head out fishing. Price: Free Apple App Store/Google Play Store

TESTED:

MINI JUMP STARTER PACKS AN UNBELIEVABLE PUNCH

They say all things happen for a reason. Well, the reason the Toyota Prado parked in front of my house wouldn’t start was because I’d left the park lights on. Genius. I knew it wasn’t a problem I’d be able to solve immediately. Nor would I have to – I was getting picked up for another day at the 2013 Brisbane Boat Show – so I could spend the day working out how I was going to unlock the car door without a key. It took me a few hours to find out that there’s a secret key embedded in the door unlocking fob (Toyota owners will know what I mean).

Anyway, there was a greater purpose for the flat battery. It allowed me to visit our next-door neighbours at the show who sold the Mini Jump Starter, and they let me borrow one that night. What better way to test a product that, at first glance, you’d think would struggle to turn over a 4L 4WD engine? You can literally fit this jump starter in your pocket. It’s a far cry from those cumbersome jumper-packs that you can buy from your local auto store; only Kerry Packer had deep enough pockets to fit one of those in. A sceptical crew of FM staff clustered

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129

NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

What’s new fishing Powered by

SHIMANO’S SARAGOSA SW SPIN

These gutsy saltwater-rated spin reels are now even more durable, thanks to some substantial component upgrades. The Saragosas are all about the X’s. Encased in a hybrid aluminium and XT7 graphite body with an XGT7 rotor, Shimano’s legendary X-Ship bearing supported pinion gear and larger drive gear delivers remarkable cranking power with less effort and a smoother feel. X-Shield and X-Protect keep saltwater out of key areas, while the Cross Carbon drag is also waterproof. In fact, it is capable of dialling up anywhere from 10-20kg of hurt on your quarry, depending on the reel model. A one-piece bail arm assembly smoothly guides the line to the roller, Shimano’s Cam Oscillation system combines with the AR-C spool to ensure that braided line like Power Pro lays neatly on the retrieve without any dips or troughs, and leaves the spool with less resistance while casting or in the wake of a big fish. Price: from approx. $180 www.shimanofish.com.au

ZMAN 3” MINNOWZ

PHIL’S BARRA TOURS

The ZMan 3” MinnowZ is a versatile baitfish profile with a lively paddle tail that has made it one of ZMan’s most popular plastics. Part of its success is that it appeals to so many species, from flathead to bass and trevally to barramundi. There have been two new additions to the 3” MinnowZ range, Mood Ring and Pinfish. Mood Ring has a dark violet back and translucent, pearlescent purple belly with micro glitter. Freshwater species will be all over this colour, but early predictions are that it will fish well in the salt also. Pinfish is a super-realistic baitfish imitation that features a pumpkin back and translucent, pearlescent belly, both of which contain black fleck and blue, green and gold glitter. This could very well be your new favourite MinnowZ colour! Price: $8.95 www.z-man.com.au

Phil’s Affordable Barra Tours has added another barramundi adventure to their extensive range of barra fishing options. After only just last month adding three more Western Australian packages, they have now announced a very affordable seven-day extended mothership, Northern Territory coastal tour to their range. The new package includes your return capital city air fares to Darwin, plus 5 nights’ accommodation on a 65ft mother ship with all meals provided. All fishing tackle is provided, plus a professional fishing guide and a 5m barra boat for fishing, crabbing and exploring the many pristine creeks and rivers along the coast line south west of Darwin. Your fish is bagged, frozen and boxed ready for your return flight. After five full days of barra and bluewater fishing you will be dropped back to the Cullen Bay wharf, where one of Phil’s limo or mini bus drivers will be waiting to transport you to the Travelodge Mirambeena Resort for your last night in Darwin. Prices range from $4,500 each for large groups of 12 to just $4,650 each in groups of four. Price: from $4500 www.barratours.com.au

DECEMBER 2013

DAMIKI ANCHOVY SHAD

GARY HOWARD ADRENALIN RODS

New for the 2013-2014 season is the Damiki Anchovy Shad, a thin profile paddle-tail swimbait that is effective on bass, flathead and snapper. The Anchovy can be used as a trailer or rigged with a jighead, and its large paddle tail and high quality plastic construction allow the tail to come alive even at slow speeds. Available in four tried and tested colours, the Damiki Anchovy Shad is great for targeting pressured fish. This new lure is 4” long, comes in packs of eight and is suited to jigheads from 3/4oz to 1/8oz in weight with 3/0 to 5/0 hooks. Price: RRP $13 per pack www.searingtackle.com.au

You get a lot of rod for your money with the custom-designed Gary Howard Adrenalin range, with rods starting at just $99. The sharp prices, robust components and expert design has earned this series an immediate following, so much so that the range has been expanded to now include 15 saltwater rods. The four latest spin rod additions include some excellent options for kayak fishing, such as the Adrenalin 5’6” 3-6kg, 6’0” 4-8kg and 5’9” 15-24kg. A more traditional 6’6” 6-10kg spin has also been added to this comprehensive range. The wider Adrenalin rod range includes four 7’0” spin models—5-8kg, 8-10kg, 10-15kg and 12-20kg—and seven overhead models: a 10-12kg and 12-15kg in 6’0”; three 5’9” rods including a 10-15kg plus two 15-24kg rods, one with HG guides; and the two 5’6” models have roller tips, alloy reel seats and gimbal, with a choice of 10-15kg or 15-24kg. Each model in the range has been designed by Gary Howard to ensure the specific blank actions and matching componentry combine to offer you the performance you need, while still offering excellent affordability. Each blank is packed with fish-fighting muscle and is matched with 316 stainless-steel-frame guides, all under- and over-bound, with end and centre trims. All up, the new and existing Gary Howard Adrenalin series gives you more rod for your dollar, whether you’re into lure casting, live baiting, bottom fishing or trolling. Price: from $99 www.garyhowardfishing.com.au

WARLOCK PRO-SERIES

The new Warlock Pro-Series range was developed to satisfy the strict requirements of dedicated finesse anglers. The standard Warlock body design, created by Rob Gaden, has been refinished with a range of specialist Japanese-style colour patterns that will appeal to the most discerning bream, bass and trout anglers around Australia. The addition of a bright red/white eye creates a distinctive strike trigger, and they’re fitted with tournament-grade VMC Spark-Point treble hooks in a black nickel finish to maximise hook-up rates. The series consists of a 39mm model (3g weight, 1m diving depth) and two 52mm models (5g/2m and 5g/3m). To view the full range of colours, visit the JM Gillies website. Price: from RRP $15 for 39mm model www.jmgillies.com.au

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129

NSWFM

The TESTING BOOTH

Raymarine Dragonfly FMG

Kris Hickson

When I was told there were some guys coming around to fit some new Raymarine units, I was in two minds about whether it would be a good thing. On one hand, I love trying new gear. On the other I have had my existing sounders on my boats for as long as I can remember, so using them is second nature. I had heard a whisper about the new Raymarine Dragonfly units and the Chirp DownVision technology that they were sporting. Word had it they were good, but I’m always sceptical of hype until I can make a judgement for myself. FUNCTIONALITY The first thing I noticed with this unit when on the water was the clarity of the screen. It was so crisp and easy to see, even in angled sunlight and while wearing

than the depths the Dragonfly is capable of is how shallow the Chirp technology works. I have had this unit over weed beds in as little as 3ft of water and have still been able to differentiate between weed and the bottom, as well as being able to see fish in the weed and small schools of

mounting kit and an extra pre-cut shrouding to cover the existing hole, it was all done with minimal effort. The standard quick-release mounting bracket, although not used, looked neat and functional while being nice and easy to swivel, tilt and clip in and out.

A little modification was needed to adapt the standard transducer mount to fit the trolling motor. Conveniently it still fits with the Hydrowave speaker attached.

The standard sonar and DownVision, side by side. Although a great picture in itself, often the clutter from the standard image makes it look like there is more than there really is. Not so with the defined image on the DownVision.

Simplicity is the key element to the Dragonfly. The basic styling of these units makes them look great on any rig. polarised sunglasses. The next thing that impressed me was how easy the unit was to use. It has minimal buttons and a joystick cursor, the rotary dial which made changing between screens quick and easy. Pausing the screen, changing settings and marking waypoints were all done with minimal buttons pressed. Now, while these units are only relatively small, they pack some serious punch! These bad boys will punch down to 600ft in depth with the aid of the Chirp dual channel sonar, which for photo-like DownVision imagery is incredible – especially on a unit of this size! I have used it to around 120ft/30m and it is still a stunningly clear and crisp image. THE PICTURE Even more impressive

baitfish in the gaps! Straight out of the box these units are ready to roll. There is no need to play with sensitivities or set depths. In most circumstances the best picture I’ve had has been with all settings on auto. Increasing the sensitivity seemed to mainly increase screen clutter, and not add any useful readings. The target separation using the DownVision function on these units makes it really easy to differentiate between fish and structure. This is even more noticeable with the screen split between standard sonar and DownVision. INSTALL The fit-out of the unit was fairly basic as it was flush mounted into the same hole as the previous unit was. With the aid of the optional flush

The only negative I did find was that the transducer was not suited to mounting on the electric motor. Although fitted to quite a solid bracket and being a nice hydrodynamic shape, it sat a little proud. With a bit of thought and modification though, it came up quite neat and still above the skeg of the MotorGuide to avoid too much damage from contact with structure. I have since found out that Raymarine do an optional trolling motor mount for this transducer, which should make fitting much easier. There was plenty of cable supplied for both the transducer and power, so mounting locations are not too limited. TECH INFO This unit sports a 5.7” 480 x 640 pixel screen, micro SD card slot for maps or data, 50 channel internal GPS capable of 3000 or 15 tracks with 10000 track points and CPT-60 Dual beam CHIRP transducer. It’s hard to believe Raymarine have packed so much technology from their much larger units

into such a compact package, while keeping the price so affordable. With such a bright screen and so much going on with dual sonar and GPS, the power draw was a concern. However, these units use power really efficiently. Power draw at full

Being compact, easy to use and functional, it ticks all the boxes for boaters or kayakers looking for an affordable main fishfinder/GPS combo or just an extra fish finding tool. There are all the features you could want in a unit like this, and not only does it have

Top: This image of a bait ball sitting at the head of a laydown snag shows just how crisp the image on these units can be. This is straight out of the box! Above: This bream was one of a handful plucked from the school shown on the screen. Notice the active fish on the top of the hump and more inactive fish sitting on the bottom just off the edge.

You can read the super-bright screen in all conditions – even through polarised glasses – and avoid the sore neck from trying to get that clear angle.

brightness is a mere 8W – around 0.7 of an amp. This makes it an excellent choice for kayak anglers wanting a super functional unit they can run on a small deep-cycle battery. SUMMING UP The Raymarine Dragonfly is as good a sonar/ DownVision/GPS combo as I have ever used, big or small.

them, it does them well. There is a plethora of information on the Dragonfly both in text and video at the Raymarine website (www. raymarine.com.au) for anyone wanting a more detailed idea on the finer point of these units. There are also some amazing screenshots to show what these gems are capable of.

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Australian Yellowbelly Championships Grand Final Burrendong Dam

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Brogo Bass Bash Brogo Dam

Darren Redman 0427 934 688

Dec 6-8

Great Inland fishing Festival Copeton Dam

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Add your tournament or competition to this list by emailing nsweditor@fishingmonthly.com.au or calling 02 6682 5488 in office hours. Just supply a date, venue, tournament name and a telephone number and contact name. 74

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

A protected estuary cod, nicknamed Codsworth, has been successfully re-housed at the Manly Sea Life Sanctuary, after being found in a home aquarium, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Acting Director of Fisheries Compliance, Tony Andrews, said today said today. Estuary cod are listed as a Protected Species in NSW, under the Fisheries Management Act 1994. Heavy penalties can apply for taking or possessing them. “The owner of Codsworth contacted DPI fisheries officers in Sydney after a tiny fish that ‘piggybacked’ in on a piece of live-rock a number of years ago, grew over many years and started to devour the other tank inhabitants,” Mr Andrews said. “The fish was identified by a scientific officer at Port Stephens using photos provided by the owner. “Fisheries officers attended the house and found a 30cm estuary cod living in the small tank. “The fish was transported to the Manly Sea-life Sanctuary where he will undergo a lengthy quarantine process before hopefully becoming part of

the exhibit.” Estuary cod can grow to 180cm and weigh as much as 100kg but are more commonly around 40-120cm long and up to 25kg. The species is susceptible to depletion due to its unusual reproductive cycle, long life, and territorial nature. They are a tropical and warm temperate species that occurs in NSW south to around the Sydney area. “The public is reminded that it is illegal to intentionally take or possess protected species and heavy penalties including large

fines, can apply,” Mr Andrews said. “The public are asked to report any sightings of Threatened and Protected Species on the DPI 24 hour automated message-taking service by calling (02) 4916 3877.” Further information can be found at: http://www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/ species-protection And http://www.dpi. n s w. g o v. a u / f i s h e r i e s / species-protection/ protected-species/marineor-estuarine-species/ estuary-cod – NSWDPI

Renz rules for Convention win On a weekend that saw young talent rise to the top Bundaberg-based bass young gun Jordan Renz secured a convincing win at the Bjelke-Petersen Dam hosted 2013 Bluefin

the upper reaches of the dam past Bass Point and targeted two large trees in 16 ft of water. Renz sounded a large number of fish holding on the trees and believed that the area acted

O SERIES

” Ecogear Power Shad rigged on hand-painted 3/8oz TT jighead

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Rod:.......................... AMC Custom Bream Spin Reel:.......................... Shimano Stradic C14 1000 Line:.......................... 6lb Yamatoyo PE Leader:...................... 10lb Yamatoyo FC Lure:.......................... Ecogear VX40

a short sharp double hop able to fish these events,” back the boat. If Renz got a said Renz. bite he would drop the lure URQUHART RUN N’ GUNS TO SECOND to the bottom and repeat TOP 10 NON-BOATERS the double hop and rest Joe Urquhart once again showed that he’s a man to retrieve. Kanowski Kills it for Second Renz’s tackle of choice watch on any waterway was an AMC Custom with yet another podium that did the majority of fall to the Little Ma finish, with the Gold Coast Bream Spin matchedSteve with ‘Killer’ the damage, catching all but instead ate a plum finishing 2nd with a a Shimano Kanowski Stradic once C14 again basser lived bar one of his fish, was chartreuse coloured 3 up to his bridesmaid tag 2.97kg limit. a 1/4oz Evergreen Little paddle-tail soft plastic. 1000 reel, spooled with 4/4, and fell short of claiming Max blade fished vertically Kanowski’s double lur 6lb Yamatoyoone PEof and 10lbbass ELECT the few titlesUrquhart also headed and worked with short, BASS approach had him sittin up to the timbered section Yamatoyo FCheleader. hasn’t won, the Smak aggressive hops. The in first after Session One Pro Grand biggest fish in his limit second after Session Two of the dam but rather than The keyLures to BASS Renz’s crown. for the tournament didn’t and ultimately second a stay in one area Urquhart presentation Final was to take Fishing a trio of employed a run-and-gun off the standard hooks of locations to catch his fish, Kanowski on covering as much his VX40 and retrofit focused ZX technique bushes in 8-14ft ground as possible. Urquhart trailing hooksflooded to allow him of water near the timbered targeted the smaller spindly to run his lurearea closer thethe event not fartofrom TOP 10 NON-BOATERS start line. up. timber in 3-6ft of water that tree with out snagging Place / Angler Fish Weight (kg) “The standout bushes most anglers passed over. “The bigger fish where were the ones that were 1 Dean SILVESTER 6/6 8.36 coming as the lure tosatdrop-offs on To adjacent and cover ground quickly 2 Stephen KANOWSKI 6/6 8.27 deep he explained. Steve lure Kanowski once again the bridesmaid at the Urquhart’s of was choice the bottom next towater,” the tree,” 3 Matt JOHNSON 5/6 7.02 The lure and technique Grand Final, fi nishing second to Silvester. 4 Matthew MOTT 5/6 6.91 was an Imakatsu Parana said Renz. 5 John BRIDER win with 6/6 a 4/4, 6.70 For his hard fought vibe (soft tungsten) in ayu Jordan Renz secured a convincing 6 David REYNOLDS 6/6 6.58 tight tournament win, Young Renz colour. 4.09kg bag for the Bluefin Boats BASS 7 2013 Mark LENNOX 5/6 6.41 Gun Casting Fires his tolure Win BASS ELECT 8 Gavin DUNNE 5/6 6.35 Electric Convention. walked away with a .brand to the structure Urquhart

SMAK LURES BASS PRO

O GRAND FINAL GLORY

to wo, ere ng ng all. at nd, n– uld ird

WINNING TACKLE

Ecogear ZX40 blade

Jighead retrieve

The team at Blue Fin awarding Jordan Renz his prize of Blue Fin Estuary Pro.

9 Ian WRATTEN 6/6 6.06 Hervey Bay dam Radosevic once again The move was just 10 Adrian MELCHIOR 5/6 6.01 student and bass used his two blade combo, what he needed to get would then burn his lure For full result listings see www.australianbass.com.au young gun Dane but after getting blown away his tournament back on Place / Angler Fish Weight (kg) Payout back to the boat. Radosevic secured victory by five fish he was beginning track, and he finished Jordan 4/4...........4.09 .......Blue Fina Estuary Pro in the non-boater division to wonder whether it was the session with a 2.51kg For this work his tackle the end1I just went backRENZ to the .................. fish on his second cast damage, but rather roll .......55lb Mount Haswing of choice was an St Croix gutter 2 to seeJoseph what it hadURQUHART left”. and his ....... at the Smak Lures BASS going to all fall apart on him. limit. Claiming the event second4/4. fish..........2.97 three and paused Power Bow Shad that His to return..................... ProTransom Grand Final with a casts later. tempted the suspended bass. “I just couldn’t land a win over a strong finishing 3 decision Jack GOLD 4/4...........2.95 .......55lb Motorguide Varimax rod match with a Daiwa was a correct one, with win. This time it wasn’t a Forty minutes and a few bass fish,” he said, “so I upped my Terry Allwood, Radosevic 4 catching Trevor his STEAD ................. 4/4..did .........2.91 .......$300 Haswing dollars 210gFishing T3 reel spooled with 10lb Silvester first snapped with Trevor leader size and that’s when it in the end secured an blade that the later the bite shut down and 5 Ben BIGGS ..................... 4/4...........2.82 .......$300 Haswing dollars Stead on Day One and all turned around.” Toray Super strong 8lb (kg) the gutter had given up all easy victory. – ABT Place / Angler Fish andWeight that it.......$200 was going toHaswing give up 6 Adrian WILSON .............. 4/4...........2.74 dollars Barry Reynolds on Day Toray L-Hard FC. Radosevic fished a for the tournament. 1 Dane RADOSEVIC 5/6 6.78 7 Mark PETERSEN ........... 4/4...........2.74 .......$200 Haswing dollars Two, With the fish holding combination of Nexgen “Rather than just beating 2 Terry ALLWOOD 6/6 6.56 8 Kenny LEBHERZ ............ 4/4...........2.73 .......$100 dollars and Evergreen blades. tight to structure, leader my head against the Haswing wall and 3 Michael THOMPSON 6/6 5.40 hoping that I couldHaswing scratch 4 John choice KOCH 5/6 5.24 9 Andrew LOW .................. 4/4...........2.56 .......$100 dollars Day One involved fishing was critical to timber and working out a.......Imakatsu/Toray couple more fish, I 5 Joshua EVANS 5/6 5.02 10 Samantha RUTLEDGE ... 4/4...........2.56 pack vertical Urquhart’s success, “The his blades with a series of moved and went looking 6 Tom SLATER 5/6 5.00 L-Hard leader has great single and double hops. The for active fish,” explained 7 Duane MACEY 4/6 4.84 Winning Edge approach was spot-on, with Silvester. 8 Glennabrasion WOJTASIKresistance, 5/6 I could 4.68 Radosevic catching his Targeting schooled fish 9 Andrew WOODS 4/6 4.45 By changing to ZX assist hooks Renz was able to position his lure tight to the use a light leader4/6to get the limit within the first hour of in deeper water in a gutter 10 Ben SCOTMAN 4.37 structure with out snagging his lure. bites but see it had the abrasion For full result listings www.australianbass.com.au Session One. Session Two, similar to his first one, however, proved a lot more Silvester caught a few more resistance to get the fish difficult with Radosevic fish but didn’t add much out of the structure,” said catching one fish for the extra to his bag. However, Boats BASS Electric as a transitionin location Urquhart. session.Estuary the end he with had more new than Bluefin 385 “I just couldn’t get (2.37kg) to maintain Convention. bass holdingenough in the area Pro. The Bluefin Boats number before one position and “I am over the Compiling a 4/4, 4.09kg for a brief his period thesecond moonfishto I needed BASS Electric Convention to complete my limit,” claim the Grand Final win. Winner’s tackle draws the curtain on another two-day bag to claim the moving and being replaced cannotDane. wait “To fish AFC and wintake the the win, Iexplained Rod: Dobyns Champion Extreme 702 spin by a meagre yearget on the waterLeading win, Renz relegated Joe by new fish. Somerset BASS Pro this to and start successful BASS Electric Reel: Quantum EXO 25 spin 10g heading into the third more located than I could fishing ever Urquhart (4/4, 2.97kg) to Once hewashad out of this fantastic ABTfishwould like to Line: 10lb Series. Sunline Rock and final session, Radosevic have hoped for,” he said. “To Leader: 6lb Sunlineall Shooter FC that have 2nd, and Jack Gold (4/4, the fish, Renz said Renz. The–young thank those needed and was praying top itwould all off bycast winningboat,” the Lure: Ecogear ZX40 blade (dark night colour #445), 3 a repeat Grand Final as well to 2.95kg) to 3rd to secure the his Ecogear VX40 blade inis hard angler went onfor to –thank hisof Session helped make the season a jighead (eel colour) rigged on hand-painted 3/8oz TT One to be confident of comprehend biggest win of his young colour 339 past the and treessomething father, ACM Custom Rods successful one including Winner’s edge securing the win. Fishing Dane Radosevic claimed the non-boater title, anchored that I’m incredibly proud of. snapping event the bladeorganisers, up off the bottom on sl tournament career. then allow towin sink to again and Ecogear. Without of ofJoseph Urquhart relegated to second position,The butkey was anglers, Dean Silvester was red hot this year and showed it at hisIflure the upper all reaches the by hiswas 3.42kg bag in Session One. I never anything this the lure wouldn’t dart correctly and the bass wouldn Both Renz fished the bottom imparting took home an impressive 55lb Bow Mount Haswing. and series sponsors. – ABT Cania, claimingdays the boater BASS Pro Grand Final title. before I can die a happy man!” their support I would not be

RESULTS

TOP 10 NON-BOATERS

BASS ELECT

WINNING NOTES

Entries Tournam 2013 ABT Simply p ﬁll in the r in with you

A LOGA A downl www.a At any on (07) your ent

Entries: Entry forms for all ABT Tournaments can be found in the 2013 ABT Tournament Angler Guide. Simply photocopy the entry form, fill in the relevant details and send it in with your chequeor money order to; ABT, PO Box 7196, LOGANHOLME, QLD 4129 Alternatively you can download an entry form from www.australianbass.com.au At any time you can call ABT on (07) 3387 0888 for help with your entry during business hours. NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Carl Jocumsen bookends slow USA season FMG

Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

Pretty much everyone in the Australian Bass Tournament scene knows that Toowoomba angler, Carl Jocumsen, set sail three years ago for the USA with the aim of

competing against some of the best bass anglers in the world on the highly competitive Bassmaster tournament trail (www.bassmaster.com). It’s been three years of ups and downs for the young Aussie. He’s tasted success in the form of plenty of top 20 finishes across the country.

And he’s had his downs. Racking up a better collection of century-plus finishes than most Aussie batsman in the modern era. In 2012 he fell agonisingly short of qualifying for the Bassmaster Elite series – watching the angler that finished one place ahead of him in the Central Opens

CARL’S LINKS

• Carl’s Bassmaster angler profile link: http://www.bassmaster.com/anglers/carl-jocumsen • Link to Bassmaster event results page: http://www.bassmaster.com/tournaments/2013-bass-pro-shops-central-open-3/ results/1 • Carl’s interview QR code. http://youtu.be/_VrXL90Lv0Y • Link to Carl’s Fan Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Carl-Jocumsen-TeamJocumsen/509735719057074 points race get offered a spot in the most prestigious circuit on the planet. So, it was back to the drawing board in 2013 to try and make the cut. As well as the Bassmaster Opens series, Carl opted to spend some of his precious funds on the PAA (Professional Anglers’ Association: www.fishpaa. com) circuit. A solid string

of results there would see him with a free entry into an event called the Toyota Texas Bass Classic. With a $250,000 winner’s purse, there was merit in the idea. Carl’s season started with a PAA event on Lake Norman, Tennessee. With virtually the entire field throwing those crazy, 5-lure Alabama rigs, Carl opted to pursue a skirted jig pattern

name, Carl racked up his first Bassmaster top 12 cut – finishing 4th and cashing a prize cheque for over $10,000USD. “All year I’d been sticking to what I’d found in practise and I was unwilling to change things up when conditions changed,” Carl explained in a 30-minute interview that we conducted post-tournament

on the steep rocky bluffs and cracked the code. Making his first ever top 12 PAA cut in that event was a huge achievement – especially as he was the only angler NOT throwing an A-rig. Interestingly, the A-rig has now been banned from most major national circuits as it’s considered unsporting. With no reason to doubt that this was the start to another stellar year, Carl then struggled. And he struggled for months – right up until the final event of the season – the Bassmaster Central Open on Ross Barnett Reservior in Mississippi. With around $300 to his

(see factbox for the QR code link). “And when I got to my starting spot on the first day of this event, it happened again – 2ft rollers were hammering the section of lily pads were I’d found a concentration of better than average bass. “So, I bit the bullet and used every bit of knowledge I’d gained over the last three years to run around the lake to every good looking spot I could find and put together a 10lb limit that kept me in with a shot in 25th place,” Carl continued. The next morning, the conditions suited a technique that Carl calls ‘swimming a worm’, so

CARL’S 2013 FINSIHES

PAA Events Lake Douglas................................ 12th Lake Tellico................................... 62nd Table Rock lake............................ 33rd Bassmaster Central Opens Red River...................................... 113th Arkansas River............................. 132nd Ross Barnett................................. 4th Bassmaster Northern Opens James River.................................. 63rd Oneida Lake................................. 137th Lake Erie...................................... 100th

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that’s what he did. He rolled with the conditions and put together a limit of fish that wouldv at least ensure he took home a pay cheque. Typically the top 50 or so anglers make a payday from a 150 boat field. “But then the sun came out, the wind died and I knew that my frog-fish in the lily pads would bite,” Carl said, “so I ran to the spot, the bass hadn’t moved and I upgraded every single fish in the live well.” Weighing in reasonably early, Carl was sitting in 4th. He needed to endure another 100 pro anglers weighing in before he knew that he’d make the top 12 cut. And that he did – in 9th place. “That was the best feeling and the best achievement in my life,” Carl exclaimed, “I got to fish on the final day against guys that I’d watched on TV and who have earned millions of dollars catching bass.” And Carl didn’t disappoint. Weighing in the third biggest bag on the final day, Carl finished the event in 4th place. 2014 “The biggest challenge now is getting my sponsors and funding sorted for another shot at qualification on 2014,” Carl said. “I’ve made it this far with awesome support from companies like Hobie, Millerods, Bassman Spinnerbaits, Skeeter, Yamaha and Shimano, but I think that bass fishing must be one of the most expensive sports on the planet.” If you’d like to kick in, go to Carl’s Facebook page and check out the crowd-finding links. After all, who doesn’t like watching an Aussie young gun head stateside and beat the Americans at their own game?

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DECEMBER 2013

Aussies dominate big money in China FMG

Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

In September 2013, a team of 10 Australian kayak tournament anglers travelled to China to compete in the inaugural C.A.N. (China, Australia, New Zealand) kayak tournament. Not really knowing what to expect, the team excelled on a totally foreign waterway for species they hadn’t seen before. In short, Aussie anglers

dominated the top placings, winning $41,200 of the $55,000 USD prize money on offer. Working as a team, the anglers figured out a pattern and shared it with their teammates. Interestingly, Aussie bream training and techniques shone, with the Aussie anglers’ stamina (especially in windy conditions) and blading prowess giving them the advantage. As well as big prize money, the experience was big for the team. With an outdoor stadium full of

How’s this for a presentation ceremony?

AUSSIE ANGLER PLACINGS

1st..............................Richard Somerton 2nd............................Neil Carstairs 4th.............................Andrew Death 6th.............................Scott Lovig 7th.............................Jim Barrie 10th...........................Craig Coughlan 11th...........................Greg Lewis 12th...........................Stewart Dunn 13th...........................Matt Petrie

Richard Somerton (centre) and Neil Carstens (left) took out podium finishes and the lion’s share of the cash.

near 20,000 people for the opening ceremonies and presentations, it’s an experience that they’re unlikely to forget. Neil Carstairs put together an awesome report – big enough to fill up half of this magazine. You can read it here: http://www.kfdu. com.au/forum/viewtopic. php?f=1&t=34354 Rest assured, there’ll be plenty more Aussies chomping to get their hands on some of that cash if the opportunity presents itself again.

Mighty Bonanza Comp The Mighty Bonanza was blessed with a near-perfect weekend. Both days were pleasurably fished with some of the best conditions experienced. The number of Juniors

were down a little and, possibly because of the prize format change, Seniors numbers were up. There were around 200 registered and most prizes found a home. The winning Club this

year was Tomakin, the first time since 1987. The fish were not excessively big but just about all species were brought to scale. Only three fish failed to show up; John dory, mulloway and gamefish.

RESULTS

SENIORS Fish.............................................Angler........................................ Weight (kg) Snapper ......................................Garry McFadzen............................. 3.015 Morwong......................................John Nelson.................................... 1.795 Flathead (dusky)..........................Tim Butler ....................................... 1.820 Tailor............................................Steve Church ..................................(legal) Salmon........................................Sam Hicks....................................... 1.555 Leather jacket..............................Garry Art ........................................ 0.920 Pigfish..........................................Amanda Brooks .............................. 0.790 Drummer.....................................Emily Ezzy....................................... 3.030 Bream..........................................Dale Evans...................................... 0.885 Nannygai.....................................Adam Martin.................................... 0.775 Kingfish........................................Rowan Rivett................................... 3.300 Whiting.........................................Brian Evans..................................... 0.420 Trevallies......................................Craig Nye........................................ 0.960 Blackfish......................................Graig Nye........................................ 0.870 Seven-gill shark...........................Rowan Rivett................................... 26.75

Emily Ezzy alongside her partner took out the best drummer award.

Best male angler........................Phil Boneham................................ 10.08 Best female angler.....................Amanda Brooks............................. 5.590 SUB JUNIORS Flathead ......................................Will Chamberlain............................. 0.835 Morwong......................................Luke Cargill..................................... 0.965 Snapper.......................................Jakirra Nye...................................... 1.725 Black fish.....................................Reef Quinton................................... 0.500 Salmon........................................Keshi Quinton.................................. 0.900 JUNIORS Snapper.......................................Celeb Bartholomew......................... 1.985 Morwong......................................Conner Purdom............................... 1.115 Salmon........................................Scott Rigby...................................... 0.655 Leatherjacket...............................Dylon Art......................................... 0.845 Flathead.......................................Heather Seward.............................. 0.690 Bream..........................................Heather Seward.............................. 0.285 Nannygai.....................................Anthia Hasler................................... 0.360 Trevallies......................................Caleb Bartholomew......................... 0.360 78

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Left: Rowan Rivett with his two winning kingfish. Right: The Mighty Bonanza is a family friendly event and the kids had a blast.

2013 Daiwa-Hobie Kayak Bream Series Beechey SoftenS for Second

MoBBS dead-StickS to win The DaiwaH o b i e K a y a k BREAM Series unearthed a new tournament fishing wonderkid at Port Macquarie with 16 year old Port Macquarie school student Wade Mobbs securing his second event win in only his third kayak tournament appearance. Achieving near-perfect consistency (1.28kg and 1.29kg) over the two days of competition, Mobbs booked a spot in the Hobie Fishing Worlds on his way to victory and cashing in to the tune of $950. Fishing canals, Mobbs used a dead-sticked soft plastic approach to catch his tournament winning fish and announce himself as a tournament star of the future. “I’d caught plenty of fish in the canals in the past and I was confident that they’d be there to catch and easier to catch there than anywhere else,” said Mobbs. Fishing an Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn rigged on a 1/28oz TT jighead, Mobbs

Central Coast breamer Byrce Beechey added another podium finish to his 2013 season by finishing 2nd at the Port Macquarie Worlds Qualifier. Fishing floating oyster racks in Big Bay, Beechey fished Pro Lure Paddle Grubs rigged on 1/24oz Seeker jigheads and worked them parallel to the racks with a rip, rip, pause retrieve. “It was ridiculously windy on the Saturday so it was hard to get the lure in exactly the right spot, tight to the edge of the rack, where it needed to be,” said Beechey. Weighing in three fish for the day, Beechey sat in 11th place heading into day two. Day two produced calmer conditions, a fact that pleased all competitors, and for some produced a better bite,

TOP 10 NON-BOATERS

Wade Mobbs had a perfect tournament at Port Macquarie, cashing in and securing a spot in the Hobie Fishing Worlds. would cast his offering in tight to the pontoon then dead-stick it and drift it in under the structure with the current. “I adjusted both the position of my kayak and my rod so I could drift my lure as far in under the pontoon as possible. It was then just a matter of watching the line for that tell-tale tick of a fish eating the lure,” said Mobbs.

The approach was spot on with Mobbs catching his limit by 11am in session one and finishing the day in 8th place. Day two proved much harder for the majority of the field but not for Mobbs, with the Port Macquarie school student catching the only full limit of the field for the day. “I was really worried that I wasn’t going to catch them, so I sat down on Saturday

Pontoon Drift lure under pontoon and moored boat

Boat

Beechey included. “It was definitely a better bite for me on the day two. They were more aggressive, but unfortunately I only got three bites for the day,” said Beechey. Weighing a 1.15kg bag for the session leapfrogged him up the scoreboard to finish second and find some

TOP 10 NON-BOATERS

good form heading into the Grand Final. Attention for anglers now turns to the DaiwaHobie Kayak BREAM Grand Final slated for 2-3 November. For all the event results and the livestream of the weigh-in each day visit www.bream. com.au.

top 10 kayakerS

TOP 10 NON-BOATERS Place/Angler

Cast

Bryce Beechey continued his good form for 2013, BASS ELECTRIC SERIES finishing second at Port Macquarie.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Wade MOBBS Bryce BEECHEY Nicholas MEREDITH Wayne ROBINSON Dave HEDGE Jason MEECH Luke KAY Andrew DEATH Shane TAYLOR Stewart DUNNE

Fish Weight(kg) Payout BASS ELECTRIC SERIES 8/8 6/8 6/8 5/8 5/8 6/8 5/8 3/8 4/8 2/8

2.57 2.01 1.96 1.94 1.91 1.86 1.81 1.57 1.38 1.29

$950 + Prize Pack $520 + Prize Pack $385 + Prize Pack $345 + $100 Pro + Prize Pack $300 + Prize Pack $250 $200 + $250 Ford Bonus $150 + $100 Boss Hog (0.91kg) $125

BASS ELECTRIC SERIES

For full result listings, see www.bream.com.au

Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn River Prawn colour

Andrew Death claimed the Hogs Breath Boss Hog with his day one kicker fish.

2013

night, wrote a map and a plan of what I was going to do and then I made sure I stuck to it,” said Mobbs. His attention to detail and planning was spot on with Mobbs catching his limit early in the session and going on to claim a very comfortable win. With a Hobie Fishing Worlds qualification and Hobie Grand Final qualification to his name, Mobbs will be hoping that his dream run continues for at least another month. Only time will tell whether it does.

Daiwa

winning noteS Winner’s Tackle Rod: 6’10”, 1-4kg, Howler custom Reel: Shimano C14 2500 Line: 4lb Stren Microfuse Leader: 3lb Sunline Lure: Ecogearaqua Bream Prawn (river prawn colour) Worried that he’d panic on day two and waver from his productive pattern, Mobbs printed out a map and wrote down his game plan on it so he had a plan to refer to. TERS TOP 10 NON-BOA

IC SER IES BAS S ELE CTR

hog’S Breath BoSS hog

DATE:

Andrew Death secured the Hogs Breath Boss Hog with the kayaker tournament pro winning the $100 prize for his 910g bream caught on day one on a Gladiator Bingo crankbait.

BOSS HOG HOGS BREATH PAY TO:

Hogs Breath Boss Hog

FOR THE SUM OF:

One Hundred Dollars

$ 10 0

ents Fishing Tournam • barra bass • bream

hoBie kayak BreaM SerieS

For more information visit www.bream.com.au or phone ABT on ( 07 ) 3387 0888 NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Maintaining an electric motor THE TWEED

Roderick Walmsley ru4reelcharters@gmail.com

I recently had the opportunity to spend two weeks working in the service department at BLA were my main focus was repairing Minn Kota electric motors. This gave me a really good insight into how these motors work and also what generally causes them to fail. It may seem from the outset that this article is focussed around a specific brand, but in actual fact it is not. The points raised will be pertinent to the majority of the electric motors in the market place and if you adhere to some of them you may well increase the longevity of your motor substantially. All manufacturers strive to put out the best possible product that they can, but ultimately they are at the mercy of the parts that they use. Some parts can be faulty when installed and to safeguard the consumer against this there are warranties put in place. Generally if a part is faulty then it should malfunction early in the motor’s life and the warranty will cover it. The main issue that we

found was a complete lack of maintenance when it came to electric motors. It seemed that the a lot of users bolt them on to their boats and then leave the motor to fend for itself. Please excuse me at this stage if you are not one of these people. Now this seemed a bit strange because we service

here is a bit of a step-bystep process in keeping your electric motor maintained. CHECK YOUR PROP This would have to be one of the biggest cases of motor failure. The lower end of your motor contains an electric armature. At either end of this lower end there are rubber seals that guard against

Braid is one of the major factors that contribute to lower end damage. Check your propeller and this shouldn’t happen. our cars and outboard motor, so why shouldn’t we do the same with our electric motors? Perhaps many people that buy them are not aware that they need to be looked at on the odd occasion. Therefore,

water ingress. It is imperative to check that no line has found its way behind your prop on a regular basis. If you had the misfortune of picking up some line on your outboard

propeller, you would know that it affects the working of the motor and if left would ultimately end up chewing your seal out and allowing water to enter your gearbox. Well an electric motor is no different. The first seal sits directly behind the propeller and once you pick up some line it ultimately finds its way in behind the propeller and after some time will affect the integrity of this seal. There is a secondary seal behind the first, which acts as a backup, but at some stage it too could be affected by the line if left too long. It seems that there is a lot more line floating around in our waterways than we are aware of and it has a very frustrating habit of finding its way into our motors. Try to make changing your prop a regular exercise. Remove the prop by loosening the locking nut on the front, slide the prop off and you can then inspect your shear pin (which stops the propeller from turning and safeguards it and your shaft from a hard knock). A good idea is to remove the shear pin, grease it, and your shaft and after replacing the pin slide your prop back on. This will keep all parts lubricated and, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to remove your prop at a later date, it won’t be locked up on the

Corrosion can compromise the effectiveness of your power supply from battery to motor. Do regular checks. shaft due to excess corrosion. I like to keep a spare shear pin in my wallet just in case I find myself in a remote location and in need of one. The interesting part was that after spending two days servicing motors I went straight home and did a cursory inspection of my motor. It was quickly apparent that I had failed at my attempt on maintenance. My propeller was quite tight and I struggled to get it off. There was a pile of braid behind it when I got it off and it had caused some

To remove prop, hold a pliers or spanner on the locking nut.

CONTACT YOUR NEAREST DEALER

MERIMBULA Merimbula Outboard Services 382 Sapphire Coast Drive Merimbula NSW 2548

ph: 02 6495 9634 email: info@merimbulaoutboard.com.au NO RUST • NO CORROSION • NO OSMOSIS

1800 336 603 For more boats visit:

www.polycraft.com.au 80

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

Turn the prop to loosen.

slight damage to the seal. Fortunately I had caught it in time. VOLTAGE Most electric motors run on 12, 24 or 36 Volts. They need to be supplied with a good clean voltage for them to function properly. A surprisingly common issue that we found was incorrect voltage on a large number of motors shipped to the service department. Once the motor is placed on the test bench it is put through its paces to see what is causing the customer a problem. When no fault is found with the motor we place it in a test tank to run it under load. If it still runs fine after a reasonable amount of time, we look at ulterior causes. The main that we come back to is low voltage. A large number of electric motors are used in salt water and this has a corrosive effect on any unprotected or sub standard wiring. A motor that was fitted a few months ago will need to have its wiring checked at regular intervals to ensure that no corrosion has set in. On several instances we were assured that the wiring was fine but once we

inspected it and cut the heat shrink or insulation tape found corrosion or faulty joins. Joining plugs are great but still need to be inspected regularly as they may seem ok at a cursory glance, but once they are opened can be completely corroded. Minn Kota have a wiring harness for their motors that can be purchased as an extra if you intended running your wires to the back of the boat. This will remove all the issues you may come across when joining wires, especially if you have limited knowledge of electronics.

If you do intend taking the DIY route then always try to use tinned wire and ensure that the grade is similar to that of the wire that the motor comes with, never smaller as this will only create voltage problems. Ensure that when you do join the wire that it is done correctly. Testing your voltage can also ensure that the motor is getting what it needs to function properly. LUBRICATING SPRAYS Be wary of what you are using to coat your motor with to add protection. Some of these sprays contain chemicals that can be harmful to the

Once water finds its way into the lower end it’s only a matter of time before damage like this happens. SWITCH OFF POWER Electricity can be a strange creature and find ways and means of creating surges or spikes even when inline fuses or circuit breakers are used. A good habit is to disconnect the power to your electric motor when it stands without use or when its battery is being charged. Some chargers do have voltage sensitive relays that regulate the amount of charge that is going into your battery, and will automatically switch off when your battery is fully charged. But once again these can malfunction and will tend to fry your electric motor’s components unless there is no power to the actual electric during charging.

Chargers that are fitted to outboard motors can also create a spike in power that can play havoc with electric

motors. A separate battery used for your electric and a separate battery used for your cranking battery can stop this from happening. I have an on board Minn Kota charger on my tinny and am in the habit of parking my boat in the garage, unplugging the electric from the battery power and then plugging in my onboard charger. I will then switch the charger off at the wall the following morning once everything is fully charged. There are other small things that you can do to your motor to keep it not only looking good but also working to its best, but these are really the major reasons for faults to occur. If you keep an eye on them then they will tend to keep looking after you on the water a lot longer.

Once the nut is off you can remove the thrust washer similar to that on an outboard propeller and inspect the shaft and seals.

SA005

When braid compacts, it results in seal damage. Even though there is another seal for added protection it can ultimately compromise the integrity of the lower end.

circuit boards and wiring that control the motor due to harmful corrosive properties in the spray. Some sprays are designed to combat rust and corrosion and will contain acids to attack these issues; unfortunately they may make the motor look healthier but can be doing more harm than good. CLEANING Your electric motor may need a bit more than a quick spray from time to time. The foot pedal can become a point of concern if not looked after. If you do want to give it a wash, especially after it has just spent a fair bit of time on the boat being towed back from a dusty environment, ensure that you allow it to sit up on its side after the wash. This allows any excess water to drain out of the pedal. The problem is not the water but the dust that floats around in the water. If this settles down around the componentry inside the foot pedal then it can cause wear and tear, which will ultimately lead to product failure. I will actually dunk my foot pedal in some warm soapy water, give it a rinse with the hose and then leave it standing in an upright position against the gunnel of the boat to make sure that all the water drains out of it. In doing this I have never experienced any issues with my pedals.

Drop in to see your local Dealer! SYDNEY WATERSPORTS MARINE 11 Binney Rd, King’s Park, Sydney, NSW 2148 Ph: (02) 96761400 | www.watersportsmarine.com.au WOLLONGONG 5 ISLANDS MARINE 40 Princes Highway, Yallah, NSW, 2530 Ph: (02) 4256 6135 | www.five-islands-marine.com.au 435 Jabiru Pro

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PORT STEPHENS BAY BOAT SALES 332 Soldiers Point Road, Salamander Bay, NSW, 2317 PH: (02) 49827899 | www.bayboatsales.com.au COFFS HARBOUR COFFS HARBOUR MARINE Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450 PH: (02) 66524722 | www.coffsharbourmarine.com.au DUBBO KEEN ON MARINE Cnr Bourke & River St, Dubbo NSW 2830 PH: (02) 68841326 | keen@hwy.com.au NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Sun Protection

Hats Hats provide shade directly to the face, neck or ears, or all of the above. They are designed to protect skin and eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Sunglasses Sunglasses are an essential tool in safeguarding the health of your eyes and the surrounding tissue. Depending on the model they can protect against all UV radiation and reduce glare from all surfaces.

Gloves Sun protection gloves proved valuable protection the back of the anglers hands and to their wrists, two areas that are most often exposed UV radiation.

for the

2014

Season Head Socks UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rated head socks provide a bridging protection for the neck, ears and face if a cap-style hat is being used. They are designed to be comfortable and provide effective UV radiation protection.

Tops Tops of various forms provide fantastic protection to the torso and arms of the wearer from the sun. UPF rated clothing provides the best protection and is designed in tropical climate friendly designs to allow the wearer to be more comfortable in the sun.

Sunscreen The wide array of sunscreens available provide a wide array of protection against UV radiation. Choose a sunscreen with the highest possible UPF available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; currently 50+.

Pants Long pants provide great protection to the legs from UV radiation. Choose UPF rated pants or closely woven pants that allow some air transfer for cooling. 82 84

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Sun Protection  Island

Tribe SPF 50+ 30g Clear Gel Stick 1 2

The easy to use and easy to carry Island Tribe SPF 50+ Clear Gel Stick is perfect for the outdoor and water sports enthusiast. Carrying on from the already successful Island Tribe GEL Formula, this new convenient release is now proudly displaying the SPF 50+ logo which will be a hit on the Australian market. Tested internationally and for the Australian sun the New Clear Gel Stick has unsurpassed results for water resistance after 4 hours water submersion. The product has a high broad spectrum rating and will offer the ultimate protection for all outdoors enthusiasts. Just pop the top and spread it on. No greasy hands leaving your hands clean and ready to fish the day away. Price: $9.95 www.islandtribe.com.au

 Tonic’s

Torquay

Tonic manages to find the balance between a stylish frame and one that is functional and the release of the Cove frame for ladies enhances this reputation. A frame that offers the angler adequate protection from the sun when being exposed to high levels of light and glare for long periods of time requires certain key elements. These elements and functional design don’t always make for a frame that stylistically fits in with today’s fashion trends, but Cove solves these issues.

The new Cove Ladies sleek design makes it suitable for fishing, driving and everyday use. Making use of a soft, flexible temple for superior comfort and fit, testers claimed that after only a few minutes you will not know you are wearing them. Available in shiny black frame with glass grey lens (pictured) and shiny tortoiseshell frame with glass photochromic copper lens, the Cove will provide great protection and comfort. The new photochromic glass lens is significantly lighter. Instead of being 2.3mm thick it is only 1.8mm thick, so you can imagine what it is like to wear them all day, it is almost like wearing a plastic lens. Price: $259 www.tonic.com.au

3

new colours for Sun2Sea Australia’s favourite certified 50+ UPF WetnDry shirts have just got cooler. Three new colours have been released to keep you and your family safe from the sun all day while you’re on the water. The new colours became available from November 1 and are mocha, olive and ocean blue camo. The three new colours are all available in polo shirts, gloves and necksox. Add these brilliant additions to the other 11 colours and Sun2Sea UV Protection have you covered. The most styles, the most colours and most important the highest UPF rating available. Aussie made and they can be worn wet or dry as they are quick drying and loose fitting to keep you cool. Price: Long Sleeve Men’s Polo $69.95 www.sun2seauvprotection.com.au

NSWFM V&TFM

DECEMBER DECEMBER2013 2013

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Sun Protection  Switchbait’s

custom shirts and sun masks Switchbait is a new company that has a range of fishing wear designed to get you on the water in style while being protected. The Switchbaiot Performance Polo is a high UPF rated shirt that the team can design to meet your requirements. This means you can have just about anything on your shirt and have it look the way you want. Of course you can also buy from the existing range, but the prospect of designing your own, with Switchbait’s help is a great idea. Add in the Swithcbait Sun Mask, which comes in three great designs or you can again design your own, and the top half of your body not only looks good but is protected from the sun. Price: Shirts $40, Sun Masks $15 www.switchbait.com.au

 Bigfish

FISH HEADZ FISH HEADZ are multifunctional headwear for your head ears and neck that can be used for protection from the sun/wind/rain and keeping you cool. Bigfish specifically wanted a garment that was light, cool and comfortable to wear with good UPF protection, hence their versions is made from lightweight, stretchy polyester. Heavyweight fabric will give higher sun protection, but they are

restrictive to breathe through and much hotter to wear. UPF protection does vary according to the colour; the lighter colours are around UPF 20 and the darker colours are UPF 30. Wearing FISH HEADZ is like applying the same rated sunscreen that will not wear off. On hot days, dunk them in your esky water and pull them on, they’ll cool you instantly. FISH HEADZ should not be used as a complete substitute for sun protection cream, they should rather be used in conjunction with it to get the best benefits. Price: $21.95 www.bigfishgraphics.com.au

Adapt-A-Cap Ultimate



The UPF50+ Adapt-A-Cap Ultimate is only for those who are serious about spending time in the great outdoors. The latest version of an old favourite is not for the faint hearted! Built with more face and neck coverage, this design continues to offer maximum UPF50+ sun protection with ultimate comfort. With the addition of a drawstring and toggle, the fabric can be drawn up to sit over the nose in comfort while protecting the face, lips, nose and neck against the UV, wind and glare but staying loose enough for plenty of airflow. Combined with a wide anti-glare visor, in-built sweatband, easy flip-over design for varying weather conditions and a quick size adjuster, why wear anything else? Price: $32.95 www.sunprotection.com.au

CABO

Acetate Polarised with Non polarised reader insert • Ideal for reading digital equipment/ charts/ tying tackle +1.50, +2.00, +2.50

www.barzoptics.com 07·5576 4365

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Floating Sunglasses • Polycarbonate Polarised • Polycarbonate Polarised Photochromic • Polycarbonate Non-polarised

TOFINO

BARZ OPTICS SHOWROOM Unit 11 / 4 Leda Drive BURLEIGH HEADS QLD

Sun Protection

Mako’s women’s frames



Mako Polarised Eyewear has been at the forefront of lens technology for years and they have introduced that technology into their women’s frames. Light plastics frames are combined with exceptional polycarbonate and glass lenses to produce a wearable, fashionable pair of polarised glasses. The Wave is a fashionable frame available in glass and polycarbonate lenses and black and trotoise frame colours. The Seabreeze comes only with ploycarbonate lenses while the oversized SeeLife frame also combines polycarbonate lenses in a light-weight plastic frame. Both grey and brown lenses are available in these frames which will cover the majority of fishing options. Price: $179.95 www.makoeyewear.com.au

Barz kids polarised glasses



Barz Optics has released a range of kids polarised sunglasses ideal for active sporting kids in the great outdoors. Barz kids sunglass models are fitted with 1.1mm durable acetate lenses, the same high quality as the Barz adult styles (most kids sunglasses have less quality lenses). All kids models are available with grey or amber lenses and suit children aged between 6 and 13 years old. Choose from the Grom, the Nauru

Junior (wrap style frame suitable for a variety of activities), the Neemo (wrap style frame) or the retro style Cal model. Available in a variety of modern frame colours. Barz sunglasses are for people involved in marine/fishing activities, all sunglasses have quality polarised lenses in a wide range of lens options including polarised bi focal, polarised photochromic, polarised pc photochromic (infused with melanin). Price: from $35 www.barzoptics.com.

Bigfish hats and caps



The combination of super breathable mesh and a sturdy peak make these caps very cool, functional and durable. Each cap features a full colour ‘swish’ panel depicting various iconic fish. Every Cap is a one size fits all, with an adjustable velcro strap. Available in navyoffshore (sailfish, snapper, tuna and kingies), white-estuary (flathead, barramundi, bream, cod and bass) and the new blackyellowbelly (yellowbelly, lure and snags). Stunning Wide Brim hats that offer the best sun protection, these hats are incredibly breathable, durable, importantly UPF50+ and won’t heat up. A chin rope and toggle will secure the hat on windy days. navy-offshore (sailfish, snapper, tuna and kingies), white-estuary (flathead, barramundi, bream, cod and bass). Bigfish hats are available in S-M and L-XL with L-XL being the most generic size. Price: Caps $24.95, wide brim hats $29.95 www.bigfishgraphics.com.au

Takes fishing to the Next Dimension!

After two months of testing by myself and the team our belief was that Tonic were optically clearer than anything we were currently using and worked over a

wider spectrum of light conditions. As an additional bonus, they were the best driving glasses we ever used. We are of the opinion that Tonic Eyewear have taken polaroid glasses a major step forward, and we have committed to using them for the foreseable future

-Ken Orr- Professional Fly Fishing Guide

Available at selected tackle stores

CONTACT: (03) 9761 7002

doug@toniceyewear.com.au NSWFM V&TFM

DECEMBER DECEMBER2013 2013

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Sun Protection

Tide Apparel’s Anchor Boardshort



These boardshorts are a bit shorter then your average boardshort, they sit just above the knee, which makes them perfect for roundhouse kicks and lunging when you’re fighting a fish. These boardshorts have 3 pockets, one either side and one at the back which is covered by a Velcro flap to help keep things secure. The elastic waist makes them a perfect fit every time, which means these will be the comfiest shorts you will ever wear in your life. The material is quick dry, which is a necessity because no one wants to be stuck in wet shorts when they don’t want to. Available in S, M, L and XL. Price: $25 www.tideapparel.com.au



Fuglies Slabs

Fuglies’ Slabs range has a host of features that make these glasses confortable and functional. Fuglies Slabs feature glare-reducing polarised lenses for excellent in-water visibility, a neutral smoke grey tint for distortion-free colour perception, and a UV400 rating for 100% protection from harmful UVA and UVB ultra-violet radiation. By using tri-acetate (TAC) lenses in this model we’ve made them stronger, lighter and clearer than regular acrylic lenses, and with a scratch-resistant lens coating we’ve made them tougher as well. The wrap-around frame and lens shape has been designed to give a wide field of vision while providing excellent side, top and

bottom glare protection. The added benefit of this design approach is a significant reduction in wind and dust getting in under the glasses. Wear them all day with no headache, rubbing or pinching thanks to the lightweight frame and the soft rubber non-slip nosepieces and arm grip tabs. And they float! Available in gloss white (PL10), gloss black (PL05) or matte black and yellow (PL06), Price: from $39.95, prescription $249 www.fuglies.com.au.

Byfield ‘s new models



Byfield Optics has an extensive military background and 25 years of experience in customised ballistic eye protection. Carl Zeiss Vision manufactures proprietary multi layered lenses that offer advanced optical, 100% UVA, B & C and ballistic protection. All Byfield frames are made from Swiss heat bonded TR90 which is designed not to fracture upon impact, with an embedded titanium pin hinge. The range has been certified to ANSI Z87 1-2003 and AS/NZS 1337.1.2010 for impact. This means they are rated as safety glasses and are therefore tax deductable.That is why Byfield can claim their range of eye protection is the toughest. Four new models are available March 2014 equipped with unique liquid rubber coating for increased frame strength, durability, superior fit and feel. Price: from $242 www.byfieldoptics.com

h c t a C ORE M

BUY ONLINE...

THIS

! r e m m u S

or see website for entire range and nearest retailer

bigfishgraphics.com.au 86 88

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WESITNONF SEHROW B /13 2010/11

Sun Protection

Mako’s best ever lenses



Mako Eyewear is about to release its most technologically advanced lens collection yet – the new HDIR series. A lot of heat radiated from the sun isn’t blocked by the UV filters in standard sunglasses. However, Mako’s HDIR lenses (High Definition Infra Red protection) have changed all that. As well as filtering 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and providing 99% glare reduction, these lenses filter infrared rays to deliver ultimate protection, heat reduction and comfort for your eyes. It’s particularly good for anglers in hot climates. As a bonus, the HDIR lenses also filter certain wavelengths of the visible spectrum that reduce your eyes’ ability to function at their best. By filtering these wavelengths, the lenses give you greater clarity and contrast. Made in Italy using high quality, lightweight, scratch-resistant glass, HDIR lenses come in three different colours. They are fully sealed to withstand harsh Australian conditions, and they’re backed by Mako’s 24-month warranty. Price: from RRP $289 www.makoeyewear.com.au

UPF50+ sports gloves



3 Byfield_optics_half page_noBleed.pdf 1 11/5/2013 9:47:23 PM

The backs of our hands are the most exposed parts of our body to UV damage, and the most forgotten! Sun Protection Australia’s UPF50+

Sports Gloves provide UPF50+ protection to the backs of the hand and padded comfort for the palm. Made from UPF50+ Italian lycra and with a rubber sure-grip palm, these gloves provide practical and convenient sun protection. The Sun Protection Australia Sports Glove is ideal for anyone who spends time in the great outdoors - great for fishing, cycling, kayaking, golfing, and sailing. Three practical colours, black, royal and skin and sizes XS to XL are available to ensure there is a style and size to fit everyone. Price: $25.95 www.sunprotection.com.au

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Bigfish Jewie

The very latest release in the Bigfish range of sun protective fishing shirts is a print of schooling jewfish (mulloway) about to inhale a soft plastic. It’s nothing short of awesome. Jewfish on plastics has really come of age and this shirt is a must for the avid jewie angler. The Jewie will be available in the coming months and be on the lookout for the Jewie Cap and FISH HEADZ package combination. All Bigfish shirts are made from the highest quality, Australian knitted polyester. This sports dry material is designed for the tropics and is incredibly soft to feel, unbelievably cool, durable, UPF 50, and lightweight. The material is much cooler than cotton, will not fade or shrink, does not require ironing and is very durable. Bigfish shirts not only look great, but anglers want to wear them for their comfort, style and of course their sun protection. Price: $89.95 www.bigfishgraphics.com.au

NSWFM V&TFM

DECEMBER DECEMBER2013 2013

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Sun Protection

New season cargo polos



Not only do these new season cargo polos from Sun Protection Australian combine maximum all day sun protection and style, they also feature a cargo pocket with sunglass holder and mesh underarm gussets for additional air flow and added comfort. Soft, silky and cool against the skin, these polos are engineered from the same breathable, lightweight and durable fabric that Sun Protection Australian is renowned for. They are also sand, chlorine and fade resistant as well as being quick drying and easy care for. These polo make the perfect travelling companion, with style and guaranteed peace of mind in a practical, convenient and stylish sun protection package! With three great colours to choose from an d sizes from S through to 3XL, why wear anything else? Price: $69.95 www.sunprotection.com.au

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Tofino

Barz Optics, the Gold Coast based sunglass company, has just released their new Tofino polarised sunglass. The lightweight frame is a wrap style with side windows offering maximum protection from the sides thus eliminating glare, wind and ocean spray while offering great peripheral vision. This sunglass offers a comfortable and secure fit on the face. The Tofino is available in a matt black or a gloss tortoise frame and is suitable for men and women and is fitted with a 1.1mm

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DECEMBER 2013

V&TFM NSWFM

triacetate lenses in grey/amber or blue mirror. The Tofino is offered with a range of lenses and price points: • Triacetate polarised lenses; • Triacetate polarised photochromic (lens lightens to Cat 2 in low light and darkens to Cat 3 in full sun); • Triacetate polarised with non polarised bi-focal readers (+1.50, +2.00 and +2.50 powers) - These readers are great for reading digital equipment/tying tackle. Price: from $242 www.barzoptics.com

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Euro Mako

Euro Optics is a sunglass collection revered amongst fishing and sporting enthusiasts looking for innovative sunglass designs and superior lens performance. Euro frames are manufactured using TR90 frame material and the latest in high performance polarising lens technology. Seven layer Triacetate (TAC) lenses are thermal formed to guarantee optical correctness, UV protection and glare elimination. Its seven layers include a polarising filter (middle), two layers of each TAC (support material) UV filters (UV Protection) and hard coating (scratch resistance). The TAC lens is also lightweight and shatterproof making it the ideal lens for the modern fisher. The new Euro Mako (model S9290EUU) sunglasses is a slick wraparound frame design with the benefit of being able to float in the water. This frame has been fitted with two foam inserts moulded into each inside temple ensuring that your favourite glasses will not sink. Price: $59.99 www.gibsoneyewear.com.au

2 1 3

Sun Protection 

Troppo Jersey

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The amazing scenery of the Keppel Island group inspired this jersey; it showcases the beauty above and below the water. This jersey was designed to help combat the extreme heat summer throws our way, incorporating light colours, white sleeves and white collar. The jersey will prevent sunburn and the 100% Polyester breathable material will keep you cool. At the end of the sleeves Tide Apparel has included an elastic style cuff to prevent your sleeve blowing around and getting caught up in your reel or worse. This is the third Jersey in their original Fishing Jersey Range, and is available in sizes S, M, L, XL andXXL. Price: $70 www.tideapparel.com.au

UPF rating in clothing

Obtaining certified UPF ratings is in the interest of businesses and their customers as it allows for informed choices to be made on products purchased to protect them from the sun. Currently UPF50+ is the highest rating and garments that have a certified rating this high offer the best protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Robbie Wells for Sun2Sea talked to us regarding ratings and gave us some indication of the process that businesses must go through to be officially certified. Robbie said, “I believe the main reason some companies don’t get certified is that after the initial testing of their products the UPF rating doesn’t come back with the desired result.” He also said that the testing was carried

Euro Diesel

Euro Optics is an Australian owned and designed sunglass collection revered amongst fishing and sporting enthusiasts looking for innovative sunglass designs and superior lens performance. The Euro Diesel (model S9319EUC) has been designed for a bigger fit with its deeper shaped lenses and wider temples offering a complete wraparound design for the larger heads. This extra frame size will also give the wearer additional coverage from the sun’s harmful UV rays and is available in two frame and lens colour variations, traditional black rubber (soft touch) with smoke lens and the new tan fibre with Brown lens, Price: $59.99 www.gibsoneyewear.com.au out on the lightest colour on the shirts so a shirt coloured white generally has a lower UPF rating than a shirt coloured black. Robbie is a proponent of full testing of all clothing said to be for sun protection as he says, “In reality you are dealing with people’s lives, not just producing another item to flog off.” And that’s exactly it. With Australia having the highest rate of skin cancers, we need to be aware and we need to be protected. The details required for UPF certification include: • All businesses seeking Government ARPANSA certification must enclose an A4 sample of each fabric, in each colour and from each separate roll or batch before manufacture. • The application must include all products (polo shirts, gloves etc) and all brands

2 associated (Sun2Sea UV protection/Wetndry/ Fishculture) that are on the article. • Once the fabric is tested the results are sent to the business with a mean UPF given from UVA and UVB tests of each colour so if the mean average is above 65 it would be a 50+ certification if the result is 41 it would be a 40+ certification. • A UPF trademark licence is then given out with the colour and batch number listed with approved UPF rating allowed to be displayed on the garment colour. • Products can then be labelled with the official ARPANSA appropriate UPF rating tag • Every time a new roll of fabric is used the same process is to be followed to keep the UPF license. Basically it’s up to the end user to be educated on what to look for, if they don’t know, it is difficult to make a responsible decision.

The

only true 50+

24/7 loose fitting boating, fishing and leisure shirt!

Wet or Dry Sun2Sea has you covered

100%

shop online @ www.sun2seauvprotection.com.au V&TFM DECEMBER NSWFM DECEMBER 2013 2013

8991

COUNTRIES WITHOUT GOOD SALTWATER FISHING

ARMENIA AUSTRIA BELARUS BOLIVIA CAR CHAD ETHIOPIA HUNGARY KAZAKHSTAN KOSOVO LAOS LUXEMBOURG

MALAWI MALI NEPAL NIGER PARAGUAY RWANDA SERBIA SLOVAKIA SWITZERLAND UGANDA VATICAN

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTION

FIND-A-WORD COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to David Nacinovic of Collaroy, 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

FINS SCALES & TALES

HAWK FISHING

FIND-A-WORD COMP

by A. Both

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: Hawk Tournament Competition PO box 3172, Loganholme Qld 4129

Name

BARRA COUNTRY

Address

by Brett Currie P/Code Phone (day):

BITE ME

by Trisha Mason

G&N

by Michael Hardy

SUBSCRIBER PRIZE The subscriber prize winners for December were M Ferris of Holsworthy, S Nathanael of Greenacre, R Webster of Booral, J Gray of Putney, B Caudle of Moorebank, B Rutherford of 90

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

Goonellabah who each won $50 Gamakatsu gift pack. All subscribers are entered in the monthly subscriber prize draws. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – NSWFM

Freshwater

The question of colour NSW STH COAST

Steve Starling www.starlofishing.me

Many lure and fly fishers spend a lot of time agonising over the colour of their offerings. But how much difference does colour actually make? In the last two instalments of this column I’ve looked in some detail at how fish might see their world. We learnt that most fish, and especially the shallow water and inshore predators we typically chase, have very good eyesight. Also, we know that the majority of these fish can also perceive colour, although the part of the colour spectrum visible to them may be a little different to the one we see (for example, some fish can detect reflected ultraviolet light, which is invisible to us). However, there’s something else we need to factor into this equation, and that’s the way in which water (even very clear water) progressively absorbs light of different wavelengths. This means that colours effectively ‘vanish’ one after another

as ‘white’ sunlight travels through the water column. With increasing depth (and also with increasing horizontal distance through the water), the colour in sunlight is absorbed, and the amount of visible light also diminishes. Because absorption is greater for longer wavelengths (the red end of the spectrum) than it is for shorter wavelengths (the blue end of the spectrum), perceived colours are rapidly altered with increasing depth (or distance). The exact rate at which this loss of colour occurs varies considerably depending on the intensity of the sunlight (directly overhead or low on the horizon, cloudy or sunny conditions and so on), the clarity and colour of the water itself, and the presence of any suspended matter, such as weed or plankton in that water. Even in very clear ocean currents far from shore, less than 25% of available sunlight hitting the water’s surface will penetrate much beyond 10m. By the time we reach a depth of 100m or so, the remaining light may be as little as 0.5% of that available on the surface. In other words, it’s

pretty gloomy down there! As mentioned, red is the first colour visible to our eyes to disappear, and this colour is typically gone within 5-6m (much less in dirty water). Orange disappears next, then yellow, followed by green and purple. Blues (both the tones of blue visible to our human eyes and also the shorter, ultraviolet wavelength many fish can see) penetrate deepest of all. This scientific phenomenon has a profound impact on the way things look to us (and presumably also to fish) underwater. White objects will appear bluish underwater, with the darkness of that blue increasing with depth. Red objects will begin to look dark or even black within a few metres of the surface. Down at 15-20m, even in clear water, the world appears to be composed entirely of shades of grey, blue and black. It’s worth stressing that this loss or alteration of visible colours occurs in both the vertical and the horizontal plane. So, 15m of vertical depth has roughly the same impact on light waves and colour reflection as 15m

This small mulloway hit a silvery/white Squidgies Whip Bait soft plastic. Would the choice of a darker lure or one with brighter colours have altered the outcome? of horizontal separation between object and observer. In other words, a red lure may look black when viewed at a depth of 15m, but it’s also likely to look black, or at the least very dark grey, when viewed from the side at a distance of 15m, even if it’s up in the surface layer. At face value, this phenomena of colour loss at depth would appear to make a mockery of the

importance of colour in lures anywhere beyond shallow, ultra-clear flats fishing. However, most experienced anglers know that lure colour can sometimes make a difference, even in deepwater jigging. Maybe we’ll never understand exactly why, although it’s certainly an interesting subject to ponder! While I accept that colour can be a critical component in lure and fly

choice on its day, I generally rate colour well down the list of key selection criteria, below things like size, shape, action and running depth. In my opinion, far too many fishers get completely hung up on the colour question, often at the expense of other factors that are at least as important to their chances of success. By all means consider colour, but don’t let it dominate your thinking!

Barra Masta Sea Jay has you covered

Discovery Sports

Tuff-Mate For the fishing enthusiats 3mm plate sides & 4mm bottoms

Capri Take it easy and discover your favourite spot in style.

For the fisherman who work their boats.

3mm plate sides & 4mm bottoms

Visit Sea Jay web site for many more models. www.seajayboats.com.au Scan the QR Code with your Smart Phone

To like us on Facebook visit www.facebook.com/SeaJayBoats

Family time – what a great way to spend time on the water. NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Find the C-POINT Hook NEW!

Find this...

Find the

This month there are

hook competition

HOOKS

hidden throughout the pages of Fishing Monthly. and page Find the C-POINT HOOKS m and go in number, fill in the entry for correct the draw to win! The first 50 the month entries drawn at the end of INT HOOKS. will win a Packet of C-PO MAJOR All entries will go into the PRIZE DRAW (Drawn MAY 2014)

Monthly Prize Black Magic C-Point Hooks Sample Selection Made in Japan Value at $5.95

MAJOR PRIZES

PAGE NO: 1 2

$ 600 ST PLACE

1 3

VALUE OF BLACK MAGIC PRODUCTS

MAIL ENTRIES TO: NSWFM Find the C-POINT HOOKS Comp, PO BOX 3172, Loganholme QLD 4129 Entries must be received by DEC 31ST 2013 Original entries only. No photocopies. Images for illustration purposes only. 92

DECEMBER 2013

NSWFM

$ 400 ND PLACE

2 8

VALUE OF BLACK MAGIC PRODUCTS

$ 200 RD PLACE

3 12

VALUE OF BLACK MAGIC PRODUCTS

NAME........................................................................................... ADDRESS...................................................................................... SUBURB......................................................P/CODE...................... PHONE.......................................................MOB.......................... EMAIL...........................................................................................

NSWFM DECEMBER 2013

• • • •

NEWS

FROM THE BOATING WORLD

NEW ALLOY SARCA EXCEL

Anchor Right Australia continues to evolve with new anchor technology. Around 20 years ago Anchor Right Australia released the Sarca anchor (Sand and Reef Combination Anchor), which became the most popular anchor design in the trailerboat industry. Not content to rest on their laurels, Anchor Right continuously refined their product, and 5 years ago they released the Super Sarca. This anchor has been classified as having Super High Holding Power (SHHP) by the marine authorities. More recently Anchor Right released the Sarca Excel, which is hugely versatile in wind and tide changes, can hook into many types of sea beds, and has held in storms when other yachts dragged their ‘new generation’ anchors. Unlike concave designs that compress and then clog, the Excel’s convex shape displaces the substrate, allowing deeper setting in many substrate types. Then, when retrieved, it leaves the mud behind. No mud and no roll bar has made the Excel very popular. Now Anchor Right has released a new alloy Excel version. It’s light with a removable shank for easy stowage and handling. The shank doesn’t rely on bolts to take the load, rather it’s fitted through from underneath the fluke, allowing all loads transferred through fluke plate and shank. Another stand-out feature is the tip weight. Most alloy anchor designs suffer from having less tip weight, but not the alloy Excel. Anchor Right anchors are made in Australia using Australian materials. For more information visit www.anchorright. com.au. – AR

LOWRANCE SPOTLIGHTSCAN

Lowrance has announced a new trollingmotor transducer called SpotlightScan. Delivering a new level of angler-controlled, surround-scanning underwater views, the new sonar solution provides picture-like images of key fishing areas on compatible HDS Gen2 or HDS Gen2 Touch fishfinder/ chartplotter displays. Similar to the way a scanning spotlight reveals objects in the dark, SpotlightScan Sonar clearly pinpoints structure and fish targets ahead and around your boat without disturbing key areas before you fish them. The transducer operates at 455/800 kHz

with a maximum surround-scanning range of 150ft. It features DownScan Imaging and Broadband Sounder technology. DownScan Imaging (455/800 kHz) offers easy-tounderstand images of fish and structure, and award-winning Broadband Sounder (83/200 kHz) technology is ideal for marking fish arches and tracking lure action. The SpotlightScan transducer is quickly installed by attaching it to any bow-mounted, cable-steer, foot-control trolling motor (not for use with hand-steer or electric-steer electric trolling motors). Twin scanning beams provide lightningfast refresh rates, and beam indicators or ‘spokes’ are visible on the HDS Gen2 display to guide adjustments on rotation or scanning speeds for the best possible underwater image. Protected by a one-year limited warranty and the Lowrance Advantage Service program, SpotlightScan Sonar can be purchased for AUD$699 from authorized Lowrance dealers and distributors from January 2014. For more information on this and other Lowrance products, or to locate an authorized Lowrance dealer, visit www. lowrance.com. – Lowrance

RAYMARINE’S EVOLUTION WINS AGAIN

Raymarine’s award-winning Evolution autopilot has won the coveted 2013 NMEA-BWI Technology Award at the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) annual convention held in San Diego, CA. Bill Bishop, this year’s head judge, said, “The new Raymarine autopilot, after a simple dockside set-up, automatically teaches itself how to steer the boat and linearizes the compass. This artificial intelligence-feeling system eliminates the traditional seatrial autopilot calibration and, when coupled with the mount-almost-anywhere heading sensor, made it a technology stand-out.” Raymarine’s Evolution autopilot also won the Innovation Award at IBEX earlier this year. At the heart of the Evolution autopilot system is the ultra-compact, EV sensor core; a 9-axis heading sensor and full function course computer in one. Around the same size as a typical marine GPS sensor, the EV sensor core can be either bracket-mounted or flush-mounted horizontally, and as it is built to IPX6 and IPX7 waterproofing and submersion standards, it can be installed above or below decks. The EV sensor core comes in two versions; EV-1 for Raymarine drive systems and EV-2 for drive-by-wire systems. Setting-up an Evolution autopilot takes just 30 seconds; select the boat type – large power, small power, or sail; select the drive type – hydraulic, mechanical, or outboard; and choose the performance level

– performance, cruise, or leisure. For more detailed information on the specs of each version check out www. raymarine.com.au. – Raymarine

MICRO CAT LAUNCHING PAD

The Micro Cat Launching Pad, developed by Australian company Blue Water Fabrication, lets you launch their popular 2.85m Micro Cat by 4WD or the back of a ute. The launcher is remote controlled from the ground with electric winches, which means you only need one person to operate it. The alloy frame weighs 44kg and can be adapted to most 4WDs using heavy-duty roof racks. This type of loader lets you access areas previously inaccessible by boat, where the waterways see little to no fishing pressure. The Micro Cat that goes on this launcher is fully customisable to suit your specific needs. It lets you access very shallow water and is super stable, so you can stand up and cast lures around with ease. For more information on the Micro Cat visit www.bluewaterfabrication.com. au/microcat.html. – BWF

QUINTREX’S NEW BLADE HULL

The Blade Hull is Quintrex’s latest innovative hull design to hit the market and it’s already making a name for itself as the smoothest, driest ride yet. The Blade Hull, which features across most of the new 2013 Quintrex range, has done away with ‘clicker’ style pressings in favour of smooth-look side sheets. The hull was created using advanced design software, virtual modelling and stretch forming technology resulting in a concave flare in the side and bottom sheets for a smooth and stable ride at rest and underway. The increased hull efficiency means that boats perform better on lower horsepower with lower planing speeds and improved top-end speed. Fine tuning the balance of convex

and concave shapes, the Blade Hull cuts through choppy water and deflects spray with ease. It also features a sharper deadrise and narrow shoulder to handle all water conditions. Quintrex National Account Manger Cameron Wood said the Blade Hull was the most advanced Quintrex hull design ever. “It performs with a near zero nosehigh attitude which is great for visibility at slower speeds and getting onto and coming off the plane is a breeze,” he said. For more information the Quintrex range head to www.quintrex.com.au. – Telwater

HONDA’S NEW BF80 AND BF100

Honda has released details of its new BF80 and BF100 outboard engines, which will hit the market next year to coincide with Honda Marine’s 50-year anniversary. The BF80/BF100’s 1.5L, SOHC, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder engine is inspired by the same engine that powers Honda’s number one selling motor vehicle, the ‘Jazz’. Incorporated within the BF80/BF100’s lightweight and compact design is BLAST – advanced ignition timing control system, which significantly improves hole-shot performance; ECOmo – sophisticated lean burn fuel control system, which contributes to excellent fuel economy; and VTEC (BF100) – variable valve timing technology, originally developed for Formula One race cars, to deliver incredible power. A refined high-performance gear case enhances hydrodynamic efficiency, while engine exhaust is even further reduced. An optional Trolling Control function allows precise control of engine speed, with adjustments in 50rpm increments from 650rpm to 1000rpm. These engines are NMEA2000 compliant, allowing engine-to-electronics data communication to deliver engine management and performance data to compatible marine electronics displays. The engines can also be networked with Honda’s VeeThree multi-function digital gauges. Designed to provide a comprehensive range of information to users, the gauges also feature Honda’s Eco light, which indicates when ECOmo mode is in operation (for best fuel efficiency during cruising). The BF80 and BF100 will be available from early 2014. For more info log onto marine.honda.com.au. – Honda Marine

Please send contributions to: The Editor, Fishing Monthly Group PO BOX 3172 LOGANHOLME, QLD. 4129 NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

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.

Fish Taxidermy

Botany Bay Moorings 0427 908 668

Neptune’s Treasures - Your Catch Reproduced 0405 226 282 www.neptunestreasures.com.au

advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call (07) 3387 0834 or email ads@fishingmonthly.com.au

Online Tackle Products

OUT of the BLUE TACKLE

Fish Taxidermist www.fishtaxidermy.net.au or 0428 544 841

Boat / Trailer Modifications & Repairs Bold Trailers (02) 8544 8114 www.boldtrailers.com.au Salt Away 1800 091 172 www.salt-away.com.au

Introducing the all new INSANITY ACE REEL

Bait & Tackle BYRON COAST

Yamba Bait & Tackle (02) 6646 1514

WINNER

SYDNEY’S HOME OF TRAILERS!

COFFS COAST

Complete Angler Kempsey (02) 6562 5307

of the Best Reel at China Fish 2013

We Fix Trailers : Repairs + Services New & Secondhand Trailers Parts + Accessories

Rocks Marine Bait & Tackle South West Rocks (02) 6566 6726

MACQUARIE COAST

Graham Barclay Marine (02) 6554 5866

Call: (02) 8544 8114 5 Captain Cook Drive, Caringbah

Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

www.boldtrailers.com.au

Port Macquarie Tackle World (02) 6584 9972

HUNTER COAST

SYDNEY

Port Stephens Tackle World (02) 4984 2144

The Boat Pimpers (Sydney) (02) 9792 7799

CENTRAL COAST

CMC Marine Sales www.cmcsales.com.au

Umina Bait and Tackle (02) 4341 1686

Umina open 7 days

2000 , 3000 , 4000 sizes available • Slim water tight body • No external screws • Leading technology • Easy to service • Ratio 5.1:1, 8 + 1 bearings • 6kg drag

3 • Gelcoat repairs 3• Insurance repairs

ltD Bait & tackle PtY

3 • Transom & floor repairs •312v Electrical installations

massive

range of tackle

cheapest bait around

4341 1686

4 aspinall place, MuLGraVe 02 4577 3482 www.westernboatrepairs.com.au

Ph: 0417 608 344

Email: brian@outofthebluetackle.com.au

www.outofthebluetackle.com.au Out of the Blue Tackle 0417 608 344 www.outofthebluetackle.com.au Mo Tackle (02) 6652 4611 www.motackle.com.au

SYDNEY

Specialty Fishing Products www.specialtyfishing.com.au U-Make-Em Soft plastics ww.u-make-emsoftplastics.com.au

Gabes Boating & Fishing Centre Narellan (02) 4647 8755

Adrenalin Flies www.adrenalinflies.com.au

Gabes Boating & Fishing Centre Sylvania (02) 9522 5100 Windybanks Bait and Tackle (02) 9477 1520

BATEMANS COAST

Rob’s Bait and Tackle (Burrill) (02) 4454 3350

EDENS COAST

Bermagui Bait and Tackle (02) 6493 5444

FRESHWATER

Techni Ice www.techniice.com Custom boat Covers Made by Professionals

Mobile service Available We Do... Boat Covers • Canopies • Clears

Chandlery & Accessories

• Spray Covers • upholstery • Industrial Covers • marine Carpet & Decking • Sails & Sail handling Systems

FLush Your enGine With

Loomzys Fish and Fix (Forbes) (02) 6851 1425

Screen Printers / Labels corrosion controL saLt reMoVinG treatMent

0431 858 176 www.RHINOCOVERS.com.au

rhinocovers@hotmail.com

WARNING!

9 out 10 engines fail from salt corrosion

Boat Moorings

Botany Bay Moorings

Act now And protect your vAluAble boAt, engine, trAiler, fishing And dive geAr.

Limited availability only a small number remaining.

THD Screen Printing and Custom Vinyl 0499 073 122

Boat Imports Import USA Boat 0435 476 177

Boat Hire Boab Boat Hire (NSW) 1300 002 622

saLt-aWaY is a Must For:

$700 pEr annuM fOr MEMBErs MUDDy cREEK AMATEUR BOATING & FISHING ASSOc.

ENGINE FLUSHING JETSKIS TRAILERS

SLIPWAy AVAILABLE

FREECALL For more info

EnquirE nOW. 0427 908668 or 0402 055 034

NSWFM

1800 091 172

Visit www.salt-away.com.au Anchor Right (03) 5968 5014

WANT IN? EMAIL : ads@fishingmonthly.com.au DECEMBER 2013

WASHING BOATS FISHING & DIVE GEAR

Bass Lodge Macleay River NSW 0433 482 325

Family Boats (02) 9622 0222

Korr Lighting www.korlighting.com.au

CENTRAL COAST

Mooring Security

Charter Boats

For all your boating needs

TAILORED INSPECTION PACKAGES STARTING fROm

• Outboard Motor Servicing & Repairs • Spare Parts & Chandlery • Marine Electrics • Trailer Repairs

FREE

$15

PRIZE

DRAW

PER mONTh

Mention NSWFM and Receive a Discou nt

vISIT OuR website

• Battery Replacement • Storm Checks • Scraping/Antifouling • Electrical maintenance • Water Courier Service • mooring Rope Replacement

A reliable and cost effective way to safeguard your moored, penned or trailer boat.

Boatminder will check your boat, start your engine & check your bilges

www.boatminder.com.au 0456 618 718

Sea Master Fishing Charters, 07 5524 8849 or 0415 593 901 Reel Time Fishing Charters 0428 231 962

COFFS COAST

Oceanic Sea Urchin II Charters, 02 6566 6623 or 0428 650 321 South West Rocks Fishing Charters, 02 6566 5298 or 0429 995 390 The Rocks Fishing Charters, 0412 074 147 Wooli Deep Sea Tours, 02 6649 7100 Trial Bay Fishing Charters, 0427 256 556

MACQUARIE COAST

Castaway Estuary Charters 0427239 650

COFFS COAST

Boat Minder 0456 618 718 www.boatminder.com.au

Jetty Boating (02) 6651 4002

Ocean Star Fishing Charters, 0416 240 877

MACQUARIE COAST

Breakdown Response

Your Mates on the Water

HUNTER COAST

Graham Barcley Marine (02) 6554 5866

Calypso Fishing Adventures, (02) 4984 7797 or 0411 111 476

Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

Tailermade Fishing Adventures, (02) 4928 2653 or 0411 096 717

ILLAWARRA COAST

Calmwater Fishing Charters, (02) 4369 8872 or 0419 239 882

Nowra Marine (02) 4423 3440

Terrigal Bluewater Fishing Charters 0418 293 886

Dave Hill Marine, Nowra (02) 4423 6137

Providing on water marine assistance to boating enthusiasts in the Sydney Harbour region  Salvage  Fuel drop offs  Battery jump starts  Battery replacements  HIN numbers

ph: 43 444 088 Mob: 0415 904 124 donterrill@hotmail.com 15 alma ave, Woy Woy nsW Don’s Mobile Marine 0415 904 124

BYRON COAST

Evans Head Deep Sea Fishing Charters,0428 828 835

FRESHWATER

 Breakdown assistance  Running gear untangled  On water towing  Water pump outs HH JOIN UP NOW! HH

SYDNEY

Fishabout Tours, 02 9975 1087, 0412 918 127

Dubbo Marine and Watersports (02) 6882 2853

Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters, 02 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351 Sydney Sportfishing Adventures, 0405 196 253

Holiday Rental

ILLAWARRA COAST

Sea Lady Charters, 02 4234 2050 or 0411 024 402

CHIFLEY DAM CABINS

www.boatassist24.com.au | 02·9746 6224

Just 20 minutes drive Sth of Bathurst Affordable self-catering accommodation Quiet peaceful setting Great spot for fishing

Boat Assist 24 02 9746 6224 www.boatassist24.com.au

Marine Mechanics

Jervis Bay Fishing Charters (02) 4447 8177 0412 506 422 Silver Star Fishing Charters, (02) 4421 7462 or 0412 977 000 Shell Harbour Fishing Charters, 0425 216 370

SILVER STAR FISHING CHARTERS

SYDNEY

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44 Barry Ave, Mortdale, NSW Contact us today

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Kingfish

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Tuna

Sussex Inlet (LJ Hooker) (02) 4441 2135 Riviera Caravan Park, St George’s Basin (02) 4441 2112

Plus more!

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Fishermans Rest (Eden) (02) 6496 1999

FISHING CHARTERS

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BATEMANS COAST

Moby Marine (02) 9153 6506 www.mobymarine.com.au

Winter Keep (Snowy Mountains) www.winterkeep.com.au

Top Cat Charters, (02) 4472 7340 or 0427 727 340

Aqua Marine 0415 600 301 www.aquacash.com.au

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Batemans Bay Fishing.com.au 1800 636 396

Cohoe Marine Products (Sydney) (02) 9519 3575

Grabine Lakeside State Park (02) 4835 2345

Blakes Marine (02) 4577 6699

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Esprit Fishing Charters, 1300 556 658

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The Sheriff - Montague Is Game (02) 4476 4664 or 0428 277 727

Neken Marine (02) 9979 9649

EDEN COAST

Freedom Charters Eden (02) 6496 1209 or 0415 602 446

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

DECEMBER 2013

Trades, services, charter boats & guided fishing tours directory Mikat Cruises Fishing Charters Swains & Coral Sea 0427 125 727

MIKAT CRUISES

Charter Boats Continued

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THE NEW LOOK

OCEAN RUNNER RANGE Families and hard core fishing enthusiasts can make the most of every weekend with Stacer’s Ocean Runner range. With each model able to be customised from an extensive list of factory options, there is no doubt about finding the right Stacer cabin for the job.

NEW SOUTH WALES DEALERS BLAKES MARINE SYDNEY

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

BORDER MARINE CENTRE ALBURY/WODONGA

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

CAMDEN HAVEN MARINE MACQUARIE COAST

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DUBBO MARINE & WATERSPORTS DUBBO

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HUETT MARINE CENTRE SYDNEY

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ILUKA BOATSHED AND MARINA ILUKA

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Contact your local dealer today or visit www.stacer.com.au 96

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NSWFM

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

SUNSET MOTORS & MARINE THE ILLAWARRA

240 Shellharbour Rd, Warilla | Phone (02) 4297 2888 sunsetmotors@bigpond.com | www.sunsetmotorsandmarine.com.au

Wollongong 5 Islands Marine 40 Princess Hwy Yallah Phone: (02) 4256 6135 | Fax: (02) 4256 6701 Email: info@5islandsmarine.com.au Website: www.5islandsmarine.com.au

Riverina Maverick Boats Hammersley & Theiss Road, Corowa Phone: (02) 6033 3222 | Fax: (02) 6033 4488 Email: sales@maverickboats.com.au Website: www.maverickboats.com.au

Sydney North West Watersports Marine 11 Binney Rd Kingspark Phone: (02) 9676 1400 | Fax: (02) 9676 7588 Email: info@watersportsmarine.com.au Website: www.watersportsmarine.com.au

Central Coast Central Coast Boat World 19 Lake St Budgewoi Phone: (02) 4399 3568 | Fax: (02) 4399 3568 Email: ccbw3@bigpond.com Website: www.centralcoastboatworld.com.au

Far South Coast Merimbula Outboards 382 Sapphire Coast Dr Tura Merimbula Phone: (02) 6495 9634 | Fax: (02) 6495 9345 Email: info@merimbulaoutboard.com.au Website: www.merimbulaoutboard.com.au

Sydney A & J Outboard & Boating Service 734 Woodville Rd, Fairfield East Phone: (02) 9728 9311 | Fax: (02) 9728 9322 Email: sales@ajoutboards.com.au Website: www.ajoutboards.com.au

Cowra Cowra Marine Centre 29 Grenfell St Cowra Phone: (02) 6342 2904 | Fax: (02) 6341 1217 Email: cowmar@bigpond.com Website: www.cowramarine.com.au

Illawarra Nowra Marine Princes Hwy South Nowra Phone: (02) 4423 3440 | Fax: (02) 4423 0486 Email: admin@nowramarine.com.au Website: www.nowramarine.com.au

Central Coast Insinc Marine 278 Manns Road, Gosford West Ph: (02) 4324 4300 Fax: (02) 4324 4400 Email: troy@insincmarine.com.au Website: www. insincmarine.com.au

Newcastle Tomo’s Marine 96 Marks Point Rd, Marks Point Phone: (02) 4945 3202 Email: tomosmarine@hotmail.com.au Website: www.tomosmarine.com.au

ACT Queanbeyan Marine 20 Yass Rd Queanbeyan Phone: (02) 6297 5457 | Fax: (02) 6299 6336 Email: qbnmarine@bigpond.com Website: www.queanbeyanmarine.com.au

Northern NSW / Gold Coast Tweed Coast Marine 147 Pacific Hwy Tweed Heads South Ph: (07) 5524 8877 Fax: (07) 5524 3324 Email: dan@tweedcoastmarine.com.au Website: www.tweedcoastmarine.com.au

Port Macquarie Hastings Marine 185 Hastings River Dr Port Macquarie Phone: (02) 6583 5511 | Fax: (02) 6583 5797 Email: sales@hastingsmarine.com.au Website: www.hastingsmarine.com.au

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Dubbo Dubbo Marine & Watersports 36 Bourke St, Dubbo Ph: 02·6882 2853 Email: bbeandel@bigpond.net.au Website: www.dubbomarine.com.au

Coffs Harbour Jetty Boating 7 Keona Circuit Coffs Harbour Phone: (02) 6651 4002 | Fax: (02) 6652 1320 Email: jettyboat@westnet.com.au Website: www.jettyboating.com.au

Sydney North Shore Shannon Outboards 3/41 Leighton Pl Hornsby Phone: (02) 9482 2638 | Fax: (02) 9476 0009 Email: sales@shannonoutboards.com.au Website: www.shannonoutboards.com.au

Hunter Valley Maitland Power and Marine 23 Melbourne St, East Maitland Phone: (02) 4933 3284 | Fax: (02) 4934 1544 Email: sales@mpm.net.au Website: www.mpm.net.au

Sydney North West TR Marine World 44 Curtis Rd McGraths Hill Phone: (02) 4577 3522 | Fax: (02) 4577 3255 Email: sales@trmarine.com.au Website: www.trmarine.com.au

NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

MorningStar 460 AS side console surprises SYDNEY

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Dan Trotter

The MorningStar 460-AS side console is a breath of fresh air – a true revolution in aluminium boat design and manufacture! Tinnies or aluminium boats are part of the Australian way of life, for over 60 years we have been discovering our great waterways on and off the beaten track in them. And over the years the design and manufacturer of these boats has gone from strength to strength with better hull designs, advancements in welding and materials technology, greater understanding of fluid dynamics, plus improved layouts, all of which have combined to deliver boats that are smoother riding and offer superior handling and performance. Yet, all of these improvements have been based on essentially the same concept of keel welded pressed aluminium or plate aluminium sheets, often comprising 10 individual pieces and just as many welds to create a complete hull. Now for the very first time a brand new, revolutionary design coupled with state-of-

Length:............................. 4.6m Beam:................................ 2m Depth:............................... 0.98m at Mid-ships Variable deadrise:............ transom 12-18° Hull weight:...................... 380kg Total weight BMT:............ 720kg Total length BMT:............. 5.80m Total height BMT:............. 1.75m (approx.) Maximum hp: ................... 60hp Persons capacity:............ 5 Fuel capacity:................... 60L the-art manufacturing process has changed the way tinnies are made and with it the way they ride, handle, feel, perform and look. MorningStar’s patented hull and stiffener design and the stretch forming manufacture process has delivered what many in the industry consider to be the largest advance in aluminium boat building the industry has ever seen. And this company is just getting started! “The MorningStar design and manufacture process is truly revolutionary. Now I know this word gets used a lot, but what a lot of companies put into their advertising, we have to put into the product. What the MorningStar team has achieved through 3 years of dedication is truly innovative. This technology and approach has allowed us

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to build a boat that has the smooth appearance, ride, and repeatability of a fibreglass hull with the strength, toughness and lightweight of aluminium. That’s a unique combination, that is innovation. Seeing and riding is believing, check it out,” said Troy Munnery, MorningStar

The lack of drag from the hull made getting up and about a very easy and efficient task. boat builder. Now I can picture boat builders, owners, dealers and other writers the country over wondering what can truly be so different about the MorningStar hulls that they

This rig has all the credentials needed to be a first rate.

WANT TO SPEND MORE TIME ON THE WATER?

can be called revolutionary. Basically the process started 3 years ago in 2010 when Taiwanese-based company CadCam approached Australian boat builder Troy Munnery with plans to use their experience, knowledge and plant equipment to build an aluminium boat unlike any seen before. The basic concept behind the design was to take the lessons learned from 20 years of metal working in the automobile industry and build a boat hull stronger, tougher and smarter. Instead of pressing

aluminium, like traditional process and then welding multiple pieces to create the hull. The manufacture of the MorningStar boats uses 5083 alloy, which is stretch formed and work hardened, to deliver a hull that is tougher than the original sheets it was formed from. By stretch forming the bottom of the hull from one 3mm sheet using a 150 tonne press, the need for a keel weld removed from the hull (and therefore the key weakness), thereby increasing the overall strength and durability. Similarly the two sides and transom are stretch formed thus creating a boat hull from 4 pieces. And this is not the only major advancement! Using the plant equipment employed for manufacturing car bodies the company has also completely innovated the so-called ‘stiffener’ system used in small craft. The patented Origrid design of the internal framework is created by cutting a single 5083 sheet and then pressing pieces of the sheet to form the frame. This minimises the number of welds and creates a repeatable perfectly fitting frame each time. The combination of the 4-piece stretch formed hull and the Origrid frame deliver

Lifetime Manufacturers Warranty ✦ Independently collapsible front & back ✦ No straps or struts front or back ✦ Top quality frame & materials ✦ Large coverage area

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The console is simple and efficient and is set up so that the skipper can easily drive whether standing or sitting. 98

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a boat that looks great, is lightweight, super strong, tough and robust and rides and performs almost like a fibreglass boat. RIDE AND PERFORMANCE Having read the usual marketing blurb, and taken a physical tour of the hull inside and out with the engineer behind the manufacturing process, I was keen to get this hull off the trailer and into the water for the test. Met with perfect fishing conditions of an almost windless morning and a glassed off sea I was perhaps a little disappointed that the conditions were not a little rougher to get a true sense of the handling capabilities. Once out of the no wash zone, I quickly pushed the boat up onto the plane, noticing immediately the lack of drag the smooth keel delivered. Taking the boat through hard turns at pace I was impressed by how the reverse chines dug into the water, causing the hull to pop up on the opposite side and delivering that trademark fibreglass feeling in the turn. In full lock the boat has a tight turning circle and actually turns inside its own wake, great for water sports and manoeuvrability in tight terrain. As we pushed further up Pittwater towards Broken Bay we were met with a rolling swell and boat wash, which provided an indication of how the boat would handle in rougher conditions. Pleasingly the reverse chines, which run all the way to the bow, deflected the spray outwards and downwards keeping us dry in what was by now a building breeze. The addition of a sharp forefoot on the keel (the impact point with the water’s surface) delivers a smooth entry into chop and waves. The flare near the bow and the variable deadrise at and towards the transom slows the downwards movement by creating lift of the hull and allowing forward momentum to be continuous. We even managed to find a swell or two to get airborne off, and pleasingly the MorningStar landed buttfirst with an almost Haineslike attitude. I am impressed.

At WOT the hull with two adult males on board delivered a pleasing 32.4 knots powered by a 60hp 4-stroke Honda with a 15” stainless prop. At 4000rpm a cruising speed of 22.5 knots was achieved, and at 4500rpm 24.5knots. The Honda 4-Stroke did an excellent job, was quiet underway and from what I am told delivers great fuel efficiency. In tight turns there was noticeable cavitation, but being a brand new prototype this would be due to the rigging height the engine was set at. LAYOUT AND SPACE The 460 AS is a clean open boat, ready for customisation. A decent anchor well at the bow will provide just enough space for 7mm silver rope, 5m+ of chain and a reef anchor. The bow rails are solid and provide a space for forward riding passengers to hold on and the navigation lights to be attached. The internal bow floor of the boat is beamy, almost beyond belief for a tinnie, delivering a wide uncluttered fishing space with a carpeted floor constructed from marine grade 15 layered ply. The gunwales, which are an extension of the hull sides, are just wide enough to house rod holders and taper downwards nicely towards the transom. The console is simple

with the steering wheel in just the right position for seated or standing use, and all the gauges and switches are within easy reach. The horizontal dash provides a great space to attach pedestalmounted electronics and there is also space below the steering wheel for a marine radio and a stereo or iPod dock should you decide to install one. Under the dash, simple storage is provided by a shelf and the floor. The addition of netting or ocky straps will help keep items in place. The clear windscreen is not Perspex, which is fragile and can crack, but rather a clear see-through nylon sheeting used in the aviation industry for plane windows. It won’t crack, shatter or glaze from use or sun exposure. A solid grab rail finishes the exterior of console off. Two comfortable pedestal seats can be placed in three different locations, and a small storage compartment is housed under the floor between the seats and can be accessed by a removable hatch. Under the transom provides space for a battery and cables and an isolation switch is neatly placed out of the way. Under the floor towards the transom a 60L alloy fuel tank with twin breathers is housed and the fuel filler cap is to be relocated

in future models directly above. Down in the bilge a manually operated bilge pump is optimally positioned to keep the hull dry. Over the back of the transom are two boarding platforms with grip tape located either side of the outboard well.

potential as a die-hard fishing boat; after all it was developed to meet the market demand for Australian sports-fishers around the country. And it is almost there, by the time you are reading this, the second set of modifications will have been made and the resulting improvements will make all

There is plenty of space both forward and aft to swing a rod. FISHABILITY I believe trailer boats are built for fishing, in my mind that’s what their sole purpose is for. Sure you can cruise on them and tow watersports toys, but when it comes down to it, if you can’t fish from a small boat then its purpose is lost on me. The MorningStar has real

the difference. The prototype by its very nature was delivered stripped back and relatively bare, ready for critique and comment by some of the countries leading anglers and writers. So with that in mind here is what will be amended in the new models: Starting from the bow a

solid bow roller and heavier duty bollard will be added to cater for those that like to anchor. A forward casting deck, which doubles as a seat, will also be an option for anglers keen on the concept. This will also provide additional storage under the carpeted casting deck floor. The existing four-rod holders will be replaced with heavier duty versions and additional rod holders can be added. In the rear transom corner a plumbed live bait well will be an optional extra and in front of the outboard well brackets for an optional bait board will also be on offer. What is missing from this basic layout is storage and the designers are working on a number of designs to add in side pockets and under gunwale rod storage. Forward of the console an upright rod rack is attached providing storage for three rigged outfits. There are also plans afoot to add an electric motor mounting bracket on the bow to allow keen lure fishers the option to add their favourite brand to the package. Once the changes have been implemented the MorningStar 460 will be a fishing platform to be reckoned with and will compete with the best boats on the market in the same size range. A final word on trailer

SYDNEY

COFFS COAST

HUNTER VALLEY

FORSTER

Cohoe Marine Products 209 Australia St, Newtown Ph: 02 95193575 E: cohoemarine@bigpond.com

SYDNEY WEST

NEWCASTLE

Family Boats 444 Windsor, Vinyard Ph: 02 9622 0222

When traveling in harsh environment we need an Outboard Motor with a proven pedigree. Tohatsu has strived to meet these demands for over 50 years. Tohatsu offer conventional light weight 2 Stroke models and proven portable 4 Stroke technology just right for todays travellers. Australia National Distributor Lakeside Marine Pty Ltd

PH 02 4392 6110

North Coast Boating Centre 2 Marina Crescent, Urunga Ph: 02 6655 7700 E: sam@northcoastboatingcentre.com

Twin Towns Marine 78 Boundary St, Forster Ph: 02 6555 2303 E: twintownsmarine@bigpond.com

Bills Outboards & More 5 Ellis St, Weston Ph: 02 49361013 E: bill964@bigpond.net.au

TOHATSU OUTBOARDS PROVEN RELIABILITY

options; due to the light weight of the entire package, the decision rests with the purchaser to select either a braked of unbraked single axel trailer. The prototype was delivered to the water’s edge on a Dunbier single axel braked trailer and, for those considering long distance towing, this completes a great all round package. If you are in the market for great aluminium boat, that will deliver the best ride available, go to www. morningstarboats.com and locate your local dealer, you won’t be disappointed. Test boat was supplied by Enterprise Marine, 77 Bassett St, Mona Vale, NSW (02) 9999 5558. It is priced from $25,000 with 50hp 2-Stroke Tohatsu and a SeaTrail Single axel braked trailer with boat and trailer rego, and inshore safety kit. The test boat is priced at $28,990 with Honda 60hp 4-stroke on Dunbier single axel braked trailer, with boat and trailer rego, and inshore safety kit. 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.

E: info@familyboats.com.au

Fishermans Warehouse 804 Pacific Hwy, Mark’s Point Ph: 02 4945 2152 E: enquiries@fishermanswarehouse.com.au

CENTRAL COAST NORTH

CANBERRA

Performance Outboards 38 Fourth ave, Toukley Ph: 0410 057 544 E: paulineandmichael@yahoo.com.au

ACT Vessels N Vehicle 38 Silva Ave, Queanbeyan Ph: 02 6299 7992 E: actvesselsnvehicles@westnet.com.au

NORTHERN NSW

PORT MAQUARIE

Ballina Marineland 67 Endeavour Cl, Ballina Ph: 02 6686 2669 E: marinelandboatsl@bigpond.com

Website www.tohatsu.com.au

Hollis Marine Shop 6a Park St, Port Maquarie Ph: 02 6583 3349 W: hollismarine.com E: hollismarine@midcoast.com.au

Email sales@lakesidemarineptyltd.com.au NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

Mercury Diesel TDI is a Miser on fuel FMG

Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

Mercury Marine’s latest project/demo boat is a pretty neat bit of kit. It’s a New Zealand-built RayGlass Legend 2350 fitted with their Volkswagen-engineered, 260hp turbo diesel inboard (TDI) and Fishing Monthly took the opportunity to take a drive while the rig was in town at their Coomera office. We also took advantage of the knowledge of longtime Mercury employee and advocate, Tony Smith, to

V8 of similar horsepower. HALF For anglers running long distances to deep-water grounds and/or spending

MercTDI web address for youtube video http://goo.gl/ruVobn

3L TDI SPECS

• Common rail diesel • 12v/180A alternator • 6 cylinder • 325kg • Compatible with Bravo 1 and Bravo 3 sterndrives

“It’ll cost around $20,000 more to setup your boat with the Mercury Diesel TDI as opposed to a V8 of similar horsepower,” Tony said. But there are other benefits of the inboard configuration. “The TDI – or any inboard – brings the centre of gravity forward … and in rough water, that’s an asset. A Verado on the back would weigh 400kg and cause the hull to lift when coming down a wave. The inboard configuration stays deeper in the water so it’s a lot more stable,” Tony continued. Tony also dispelled the myth that TDI needs to be serviced more regularly. “The TDI is the same cost as using a gas engine where we service every 100 hours. In most cases, that’s once a year,” Tony said. Of course, the TDI runs with the latest Mercury fly-bywire technology – digital

You’d expect an inboard to take up a lot of space, but there’s barely any cockpit room taken up, as this pic shows.

Left: The duckboard and sterndrive are compact and the lack of an outboard cowling actually frees up room to fish. Right: Achieving nearly 2km per litre of fuel is the real talking point of the test craft. explain the benefits of this style of motor in a trailer boat (see the link http://youtu.be/ u2RAorC4tEg and QR code to see the whole interview). The take home message from our time with Tony and on the water was pretty straightforward. You’ll use half the fuel in a TDI than in a

all day trolling for pelagics, you can do the sums to see what the savings are in your situation. But we all know that everything in boating is a compromise, and Tony explained that the savings in running costs are offset by a greater purchase price.

throttle and gearshift – and hooks seamlessly to Mercury Vessel View and all NMEA compatible electronics. The ultimate test, though, is when you’re sitting at the bar and you see the break in the sets. You punch the throttle. What happens? “The maximum torque

is at 2000rpm and the performance is slightly better than a gas engine,” Tony explained. The only way to really confirm this, though, was to go for a spin. Now, the RayGlass isn’t a light boat – there’d be over 2.5 tonnes in the water on a regular

trip and the TDI pushed the test boat up and onto the plane in around 7 seconds. Of course, you can hear the turbochargers whistling away and there’s no noticeable performance difference that we could feel from an outboard powered craft of the same size. That was until we looked at the

fuel usage – 30lph at 30 knots. The sums are pretty easy, 1L of diesel for 1nm (1.85km). See how that compares to your outboard powered 2.5 tonner! Price as tested was $145,000. See your Mercury dealer or visit www.mercurymarine. com.au for more information.

for sale on Tabs 5.5m Wildfisher Custom Built Tournament Boat 175hp Mercury Optimax, 5mm plate hull, Twin sports console, only done 78 hours…….........……$43,000

Stratos 200 Pro XL 2005 model 225hp Evinrude, 24 v Riptide Terrova, Hydraulic Steering, custom travel cover…............................$36,000

Team Blazer 202 – 2004 model 225hp Mercury Opti, Dual Console, 24v Motorguide, custum cover, excellent condition…...............$34,000

Polycraft 4.1m 50hp Mercury 2 stroke, 54lb Motorguide Digital Wireless electric motor….....................................$9,500

Bluefin Barracuda 4.5m 60hp Yamaha Four stroke, 4mm plate hull, 60 underfloor fuel, Minna Kota Riptide 55lbs…........….$23,950

Skeeter SX180 Envinrude E-TEC 115hp with Hydraulic steering, Lowrance HDS 10”& Lowrance 8”structure scan……$32,000

LIKE ‘TOURNAMENTBOATS.COM.AU’ ON FACEBOOK FOR AUTOMATIC UPDATES

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Pushing counter-rotating props through the Bravo Three, there’s no lack of grunt to get the big boat up and running.

Tip off lands abalone thieves in trouble Two men have been apprehended and face serious charges after they were allegedly found illegally fishing for abalone and Eastern rock lobster on the State’s south coast. Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said fisheries officers received information regarding suspicious diving activity north of Bermagui.

“Officers located two divers in the water and began surveillance, during which they witnessed the men exit the water and shuck a large quantity of abalone,” Mr Tritton said. “Fisheries officers then intercepted the men and located a bag hidden along the beach access track. “It is alleged that the bag contained 61 shucked abalone, eight live abalone and one Eastern rock lobster,

which were seized by fisheries officers along with two sets of diving gear.” The lobster and 20 of the abalone were found to be of a prohibited size. The two men, from Bermagui, will face a number of charges including trafficking in an Indictable Species, being abalone; possess shucked abalone and possess undersize abalone. Mr Tritton said one of

the men will face additional charges of providing false information and breaching a prohibition order. “NSW Police attended the scene as the men were uncooperative and were believed to be providing false information to fisheries officers,” Mr Tritton said. “One of the men was found to have provided a false name and it was later determined that he is subject to a current prohibition

order that prevents him from taking or being in possession of more than two abalone. “By breaching the prohibition order, the 28 year old man will now face penalties of up $22,000 as well as 12 months imprisonment. “Abalone theft is taken very seriously in NSW as it places unnecessary pressure on our stocks and threatens the sustainability

of the resource for future generations. “Fisheries officers will continue to target those involved in the illegal fishing of abalone and bring them in front of the courts.” Anyone who suspects illegal fishing is urged to contact: The Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536; or lodge an information report through the DPI website: www.fisheries.nsw. gov.au. – NSWDPI

Camera reveals secrets of the Murray cod Unique footage of the mighty Murray cod’s breeding cycle has been captured in the Dumaresq River in northern NSW by a team of NSW and Queensland fisheries researchers. NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), Fisheries NSW Scientific Officer, Dr Gavin Butler, who was part of the interstate team that captured the footage, said a short video has been produced and is now available on the NSW DPI website to give the public a rare insight into

Murray cod behaviour and natural habitat. “The breeding behaviour of the Murray cod has only ever been observed in man-made environments,” Dr Butler said. “We were lucky enough to get great clearwater conditions in the Dumaresq River, near Tenterfield during a research trip that allowed us a rare opportunity to film a Murray cod’s breeding cycle in the wild for the very first time. “Murray cod males are shy but very protective, getting the job of looking after the eggs and larvae for up to 25

days, including chasing away turtles and other fish. “The rare footage also shows the male Murray cod fanning the eggs to remove sediment and is a strong reminder of how essential good water quality is in providing high quality breeding habitat for this iconic native fish. “This vision has allowed us to learn more about the breeding cycle of the great Murray cod and will help develop strategies to promote further recovery of the species.” The photography and video has been complied into a short

video to provide a unique insight into the life of this magnificent native fish. The video features Brian Dare, affectionately known to other

fishers, as The cod Father. “I have a passion for the Murray cod and I was extremely excited to be part of this filming opportunity,” Mr

Dare said. “This important project was enabled through funding from the Queensland Murray Darling Committee, fisheries researchers from the NSW DPI and Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agriculture, some 80 keen anglers and a dedicated Glenlyon Dam Fish Restocking Group and close friends.” The video can be viewed at http://youtu. be/_8fcf8tBWeE. For more information on Murray cod visit www. fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

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DECEMBER 2013

101

Sure footed Surtees 6.7 Gamefisher goes hard BRISBANE

Wayne Kampe wkff@aapt.net.au

I always enjoy time spent in a New Zealand-made Surtees plate alloy craft. The heritage behind these rigs is pure fishing, pure boating excellence; any boat that does well in the Shaky Isles is certain to gain wide acceptance in our boating conditions. With 20-odd years involvement in the boating industry, Surtees certainly know what makes a good boat and are happy to back it with a 6-year world wide hull warranty. The 6.7 Gamefisher Hardtop reviewed was the ‘Open’ version which featured a curtained entry to the cuddy cabin rather than a

Strikingly good lines are just one of the many great things about the 6.7 Surtees Gamefisher. lockable door. Construction was to the highest standards with a 5mm bottom, 4mm sides, water ballasted hull featuring no less than 6 under floor, full-length stringers

SPECIFICATIONS

Length of hull:........ 6.84m Length on trailer:... 8.56m Height on trailer:.... 2.995m Beam:...................... 2.39m Hull construction:.. 5mm bottom, 4mm sides Hull weight:............ 1000kg Deadrise:................ 20º Fuel:........................ 240L Engines:................. 140-250hp Engine fitted:.......... 200hp Yamaha 4-stroke Persons:................. Six Towing:................... 6 cylinder wagon or large 4 x 4

mated to a pair of factorytested air tight buoyancy chambers; the result being the ultimate in strength. Total integrity matched to the utmost in deck rigidity thanks to a fully welded tread plate floor. Attention to detail within the Gamefisher was obviously a priority, yet not always evident. Wiring running the length of the gunwales sat on neat but concealed bracketing while a panel behind the dash area could be removed to access wiring or fuses. Externally the paint job was of the highest quality finish, upholstery perfect

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and all welded surfaces neatly smoothed. The end result saw the Surtees being a very handsome and welldesigned boat with eye catching dark livery offset by gleaming white topsides and cuddy, bright rails and other chrome work.

prevent water from entering or keep it trapped if required. Up front of the cuddy cab a wide, almost over-sized, well-sealed cabin hatch allows access to the bow area. A bow roller, large bowsprit and deep anchor well complete with winch for easy ground tackle management were all set within a strong bow rail. Exterior side height was 950mm, interior floor depth being 720mm, all of which gave the craft great sea keeping capability and plenty of cockpit depth for ease of fishing. CABIN AND HARDTOP OFFERED GOOD SHELTER The cabin was well set up. There was a floor mat, excellent head and leg room, overhead shelving and the 1.9m long bunks had deep storage boxes under them. An infill converting the bunks into a large bed

conditions demanded close attention to travel. A 3-piece, armoured glass windscreen was connected to both fixed and sliding windows each side, the sliders providing just that bit extra visibility when open. Aft of the windscreen a very large flat and carpeted, area was available for installation of navigation aids with a Lowrance HDS9 unit taking up only a small amount of that handy area. Items placed there would remain in place, too, thanks to a lip at the rear of the shelf. SMART DASH LAYOUT The Surtees Gamefisher’s dash was compact, uncluttered and uncomplicated. Yamaha LAN gauges plus a set of switches were uppermost. Trim tab and windlass controls were to port of the hydraulic wheel with both marine and pleasure radios lower and to starboard;

Left: A very neat dash layout is just one of the many great features about this boat. Right: Well-padded bunks with storage under them offer great comfort in the Gamefisher’s cuddy cab. DESIGNED FOR OFF SHORE FISHING At 6.7m long, 2.39m beam and 1000kg hull weight, the Surtees 6.7 Gamefisher is very solid craft. The hull, with its fine entry and an 18° Deep Vee design, has a 380L under hull water ballast system that allows water to flood a compartment at rest, and spill out freely as the hull moves forward or onto the plane. Yet there’s flexibility in the set up: a hand operated flap system on the water ballast system can either

was also available. Side windows allowed in plenty of light, as did the cabin entry area proper. The Surtees Gamefisher sported a very strongly made cabin hardtop, providing ample shelter for skipper and mate. It featured overhead lining, interior and external lighting, 8 rod holders, a fabric extension for extra shade and large rear hand holds. Most importantly, it had terrific headroom making it particularly easy to stand at the helm and drive if sea

everything in place and easily identified. The three spoke, soft feel steering wheel was central and with engine forward controls set up on the side of the hull it was a pleasure to drive the powerful rig. Helm seating was deluxe, consisting of a well shaped and very supportive Softrider mount pedestal bucket seat for the skipper, another similar bucket seat for the mate with the latter seat being mounted on a large storage box with aft facing squab

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Extra comfortable seating is a highlight of this craft, the skipper’s seat being on a hydraulic pedestal.

attached for a passenger to enjoy. A storage shelf for the mate plus hand holds were also featured. Note that the speakers for the craft’s Fusion iPod and stereo system were set by both skipper’s and mate’s sides. REMOVABLE ROD HOLDERS The cockpit work area of the craft was almost 2.2m long and offered plenty of fishing features. Wide, 400mm decks equipped with non-skid rubber sections came with three rod (and three drink) holders per side. Very wide side pockets were large enough to hold a lot of fishing or diving gear and came with snap-in-place, totally removable rod holders

to complement the four rod holders mounted on the floor aft. The port pocket had a deck wash unit, which is a very handy item on any fishing rig. An aft bait station was also

Boarding was via a large ladder and cut out step to port; the step actually being on top of the craft’s live bait tank with its Perspex front. Hand rails were fitted both sides, as was tread plate full

SPEED VS REVS

Planing 2800rpm............... 13 knots (25km/h) 3000rpm............................. 18 knots (34.5km/h) 4000rpm............................. 26 knots (48km/h) 5000rpm............................. 29 knots (53.3km/h) WOT 5500rpm.................... 40 knots (72.5km/h) equipped with a cutting board and rod holders while the battery compartment at the transom featured a strongly hinged vertical door that, when lowered, also doubled as a seat.

width across the boarding platform aft. Note that both paired engine/house batteries plus fuel filter were very easily accessed astern. The battery set up in particular was well

Powering along at speed the Surtees’ hull throws spray and chop well to the side.

thought out with today’s state of the art technology ensuring that any battery down in power received first top up from the Yamaha 4-stroke 200hp astern. HANDLING AND PERFORMANCE Out off Shorncliffe in the wide expanse of Moreton Bay, with two aboard, the 6.7 Surtees Gamefisher Hardtop was given a chance to show what it could do. The ride was at all times exemplary. I noted ample power from the responsive Yamaha 200hp on the pod astern, and powering through Moreton Bay chop and swells saw the craft never falter, never bang or wallop nor did any spray come aboard thanks to the protection provided by the cuddy cabin and the craft’s metre-high sides. The 20º Vee hull, with its wide reversed outer chine but totally smooth bottom might have been expected to roll around at rest or perhaps lean excessively into turns but this was not the case. At rest the water ballast system settled the hull just a little deeper to allow the outer reversed chine to maintain easy stability. While under way the hull’s design maintained an easy, upright, stance at all speeds. Hydraulic steering made driving very easy and the response from the extra quiet Yamaha 200hp was

[02] 9676 1400

11 Binney Road Kings Park NSW 2148

Looking into the Gamefisher’s anchor locker it’s obvious that Surtees allow for plenty of anchor warp in their boats. everything one might desire in a fishing orientated craft. Engine ratings are from 140-250hp, which saw the Yamaha 200hp 4-stroke at mid-range power. While the top speed was impressive at just under 40 knots (73km/h), I was also impressed with the instant response from the Yamaha virtually through the entire rev range. If you need power to get out of trouble, it was certainly available. FISHABILITY AND SUMMING UP There can be no denying the credentials of this purpose built fishing craft. It’s built to a standard, not a price, and the six-year hull warranty speaks well of the sort of service life expected of the rig. Finish is highest quality and with the craft’s great

sea keeping ability linked to easy handling and ample performance from the chosen engine off shore fishing would be something to really look forward to. For more information on Surtees boats or the 6.7 Gamesfisher, contact Watersports Marine on (02) 9676 1400. Priced around the $110,000 mark, this is a serious offshore rig. 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.

MARINE

info@watersportsmarine.com.au

www.watersportsmarine.com.au NSWFM

DECEMBER 2013

103

TIDE PREDICTIONS FOR SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) DECEMBER – 2013

EASTERN STANDARD TIME

When daylight saving time is in force, add one hour to times

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

0624 1.75 1256 0.32 1850 1.44

0040 0711 1345 1942

0015 0600 1220 1903

12 18 0 0115 1.41 0704 0.54 1319 1.59 1959 0.35

0.33 1.86 0.22 1.46

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

0127 0759 1435 2033

12 18 0 0217 1.43 0815 0.58 1423 1.47 2054 0.40

0.31 1.94 0.15 1.47

0216 0847 1527 2127

12 18 0 0318 1.47 0928 0.59 1530 1.37 2147 0.44

0.31 1.99 0.11 1.47

FRIDAY

0308 0938 1619 2221

12 18 0 0416 1.52 1039 0.57 1634 1.31 2237 0.46

0.33 1.99 0.11 1.45

SATURDAY

0402 1030 1713 2317

12 18 0 0510 1.58 1143 0.52 1733 1.29 2324 0.47

0.36 1.95 0.15 1.43

0500 0.42 1124 1.85 1807 0.21

12 18 0 0558 1.64 1236 0.47 1825 1.29

1.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

1.42 0.48 1.73 0.28

1.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

0008 0641 1321 1911

0.48 1.69 0.42 1.29

NSW tides

12 18 0 0048 0.48 0721 1.72 1400 0.38 1952 1.30

12 18 0 0127 0.49 0759 1.74 1437 0.36 2031 1.31

12 18 0 0203 0.49 0834 1.75 1512 0.35 2108 1.31

12 18 0 0240 0.50 0910 1.74 1546 0.36 2145 1.31

12 18 0 0318 0.52 0945 1.71 1621 0.37 2223 1.30

12 18 0 0357 0.55 1021 1.67 1658 0.39 2302 1.30

1.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

12 18 0 0438 0.58 1059 1.61 1735 0.42 2345 1.29

12 18 0 0523 0.62 1139 1.54 1815 0.45

12 18 0 0031 1.30 0614 0.66 1223 1.46 1859 0.48

12 18 0 0122 1.32 0711 0.69 1314 1.38 1946 0.49

12 18 0 0217 1.36 0816 0.69 1414 1.32 2038 0.50

12 18 0 0315 1.43 0929 0.65 1521 1.29 2133 0.48

12 18 0 0411 1.53 1039 0.57 1629 1.29 2229 0.45

1.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

12 18 0 0505 1.64 1142 0.45 1732 1.33 2323 0.41

12 18 0 0559 1.77 1238 0.32 1831 1.38

12 18 0 0016 0.36 0651 1.89 1331 0.21 1927 1.43

1.5m 1.0m 0.5m 0

 Copyright: Commonwealth of Australia 2011, 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.

104

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