Western Australia Fishing Monthly May 2019

MAY THE FISH BE WITH YOU

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MAY 2019, Vol. 1 No. 9

Contents 6

METRO Perth Metro/Cockburn Sound

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Swan & Canning Rivers

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Metro Offshore

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SOUTH COAST Esperance 17 Bremer Bay

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Albany 18 WEST COAST Augusta 20 Busselton 22 Bunbury 24 Mandurah 26 Lancelin 29 Jurien Bay

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Geraldton 32 GASCOYNE COAST Kalbarri 33 Shark Bay

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From the Editor’s Desk...

Well that is the first half of this year nearly over, and where did it go?

Hopefully for most of you it has involved a whole lot of great fishing! It is that time of the year when the fishing is at its best, and the reports in the pages following certainly suggest the same.

If you haven’t already, then you should seriously consider getting out and amongst some salmon fishing. Take the family or some friends and make some memories that will last a lifetime, or at least until next years salmon run!

GAMEX is done and dusted with what looked like some truly epic fishing as usual, and even though competitor numbers were down due to the cyclone, the stats should impress you enough to book it in

the diary for next year. Check out the Exmouth report page for more details!

Did you get a chance to have a read about the economic value of recreational fishing? Well, if you haven’t, it is in the pages here, so be sure to have a read. It’s pretty

impressive stuff, and once again I take my hat off to Recfishwest for making this great bit of information see the light of day. Now it is just a matter of putting this crucial information to good use. As an aside, if you have been salmon fishing already, please also be sure to go

Ian Sewell to the Recfishwest website and do the Economic Value of Salmon questionnaire.

The more people that do it, the better the results will be.

While on the Recfishwest topic, you may have seen a few issues ago that the Recfishwest SunSmart fishing clinics has reached 20 years of getting kids hooked! If you have a bit of spare time and feel like you have something to give back to the fishing community, Recfishwest is looking for some new instructors for the fishing clinic program. If this is something you think you might be interested in considering, get in touch with the Recfishwest office.

As always, if you missed an issue you can get it online at www.issuu.com or get a subscription for you and a friend online at isubcribe.com.au.

Exmouth 34 NORTH COAST Broome 36 Dampier/Karratha 37 38

SINCE 2018

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Production: Keith Hawley Karen Millward

Recfishwest 46 Tournament News

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Track my fish

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Trade and Services Guide

54

What’s new fishing

42

What’s new boating

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SPECIAL FEATURES

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Qld Fishing Monthly Pty Ltd ABN 72-010-542-195 All material is © copyright, and cannot be reproduced in part or in full, by any means, without written permission of the Managing Editor. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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A Michael Triantopoulos image.

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Editorial Manager: Jacqui Thomas

Geraldton writer Michael Triantopoulos was very pleased to take this longtail tuna off the beach.

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA FISHING MONTHLY

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Don’t keep wishing, time to go freshwater fishing MANDURAH

Jesse Choy

Freshwater fishing around Perth is not something often talked about, but it continues to grow in popularity as more and more uncover this relatively untouched form of fishing. While the species you can find around our

A FEW GENERAL THINGS When heading out, you need to be mindful that all redfin perch should not be returned to the water.

A licence is required for freshwater fishing, and there is also restrictions as to what sort of vessel you can take onto particular waters.

Visiting the fisheries web page or giving them a call

for the job, but realistically, they are not needed and should be looked into as a way of refining technique more than anything else.

Although many see it as unnecessary, avid anglers to take it one step further and invest a little bit more because of the enjoyment that fishing brings them.

A rod with a soft tip and medium-fast action, paired

Christian scored this monster redfin by trolling a 3m diver behind his kayak. Typically they don’t put up much of a fight, but at this size they start to pull a bit of string. it comes to freshwater applications. A rod length or more of fluorocarbon is preferred, especially if you are going to fish lighter to

you do find yourself wanting to fish lighter or heavier for some reason, lengthening your leader is always a good option.

pile of reeds. Lack of stretch from braid paired with the abrasive resistance of fluorocarbon is a very useful combination, since trout are

A stunning sky show at Lake Brockman. dams are not particularly big, they provide a lot of fun and can be quite userfriendly, especially when it comes to people wanting to learn fish in freshwater.

Part of the reason many people love going to go these places is to immerse themselves in serenity.

just to keep up to date before you head out will ensure that you don’t accidentally break the law, especially if you are heading somewhere new.

GEARING UP If you have done any sort of light inshore fishing, you more than likely have an outfit that is adequate

with a small finesse reel is a preference for those who spin for freshwater fish on lures. Not only are these rods able to feel tiny bites with their extra sensitivity, but the lightness will allow you to fish comfortably all day without any pain or discomfort.

Impoundment fish can sometimes come up in fairly average condition, but fortunately this beautiful brown was in tip-top condition. enjoy the fight a bit more. You don’t really need to go heavy, so 6lb is fairly adequate for what you may encounter. If

This longer leader helps to keep you connected if you hook a decent fish that is aiming for some rock or a

always willing to put on an aerial display, which can result in hooks being spat due to loss of tension.

Trolling hardbodies down the middle of the river bed in the warmer months can yield good results.

The land is generally very beautiful to look at, filled with picturesque landscapes.

If you are fortunate enough to watch the sunrise at one of the many dams, it can be quite a spectacle and particularly rewarding if you enjoy photography or just nature in general.

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MAY 2019

enough to land you some of fish from the fresh. Whether or not you’re heading out for a family camping trip or you decide you want to give it a proper crack, you can usually get away with what you have in the shed.

You can go as far as to buy purpose-built rods and reels

In terms of lines to use, the old saying ‘go light to get the bite’ will apply. In general, if you are fishing a lighter line, the fish are going to be more willing to take your offering, although many freshwater fish are caught on alternative lines, braid certainly works exceptionally well when

Wellington Dam has some truly great structure to fish!

FINDING FISH Fishing from the land can sometimes be difficult, and it is certainly preferable to have a boat or kayak. Anglers fishing from the shore are still not left out of the equation, but generally you need think a little bit smarter and adapt to conditions you’re faced with. Although this

is applicable to any sort of fishing, as a land-based person fishing out fresh, you may want to get to your location and observe the environment well before beginning your adventure.

If you are able to spot a bank or a stretch of banks that look to be getting a bit more wind, you should definitely try fishing it.

Quite often you will find that the windblown banks provide better fishing.

Bait tends to get pushed back into these corners receiving the majority of the wind, which means the trout and redfin perch will station themselves nearby.

Opportunistic feeding in these sorts of circumstances means that

Sometimes you find yourself not fishing at all, because you’re too busy appreciating the time away from the busy city streets.

A stud of a rainbow trout caught on a Pontoon 21 48mm Crackjack. This little lure has a hump on its shoulders that resembles the silhouette of a redfin perch.

for little expenditure of energy, the fish are able to get a good feed.

It certainly pays to cast or troll past visible structures that have a pocket of slack water, even though these fish are lovers of turbulent water. Sometimes the trout will choose to sit in the slack water, saving their energy while not starving themselves of oxygenated water. On occasion, when the time is right, a fish will dart out from this slack

through the fast-moving water in order to pounce on what has caught their eye.

Whether or not it is a tree or a rock point, it is all worth trying, and a lot of the time if you have a bit of success, you can find further success by repeating what you have done!

Being active in fishing and being aware of changes, just means that you are always adaptable to the situation, however it may change on the day and it is best not to get too stuck

into one way of looking at the situation. Although you may not always find success, it is important to keep trying new things, and you will usually at least get a few tasty redfin perch.

LURES There are so many lures available at the moment, and you really don’t need to go over the top with lure choice. It really depends what time of the year you are planning on fishing.

If you are fishing when it To page 8

MAY 2019

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From page 7

is cooler, you really want to be fishing or trolling your lure around the 3m mark, and if the weather is warmer, you’ll want to use something that dives to around 4-8m.

Lure types that will work are many when it comes to chasing trout and redfin perch. Flies, bladed spinners, plastics and hardbodies will all work.

Hardbodies are a great starting point if fishing from a boat or kayak. The reason why these lures are so effective is because of your ability to cover depth while moving, without your lure coming to the surface. Trolling a lure at a couple of knots, is a great way to explore the ground you are fishing, and it puts your lure into the faces of many more fish compared to when stationary. A lure with a rattle isn’t always the answer, but certainly has its place, and as with both trout and redfin, both cannot resist coming to check out a relatively small offering if it’s in their zone.

When trolling edges for example, ideally you will want to try to find out where the fish are holding in the water column, and target this depth as you troll your diving lure. You don’t necessarily need a fish

finder to track your depth, so it can be beneficial to draw mental maps of the structure, contour and how

your lure is running to the desired depth.

Colours that tend to work well definitely

hatch’ as they say. If you are after trout, a brown or rainbow trout patterned lure works really well as they

If you are planning to take a picture, unhooking and letting your fish rest in the water while you set up will ensure it is healthy and releases well at the end. far off the banks you are trolling. Gauging what distance away from a bank you are and relating it to a depth will give you some of idea of how close

vary. Colour choices are generally not very natural, and it is generally a good idea to try and match what the fish are currently feeding on or ‘match the

love predating on their own kind. Redfin also predate on their own kind, so if you are trying to catch a feed of redfin, a black or a red lure is also going to work

exceptionally well. You will also find that natural coloured lures always work well on brighter days.

Your imagination plays a part when it comes to freshwater fishing, and in some cases it may mean getting creative at home. These fish are not particularly fussy, so decorating your favourite lure with nail polish or a permanent marker can mean that you are able to try a heap of different colours without spending any more money.

Alternatively, you may want to decorate a lure that doesn’t get used and quite quickly it could turn into a very successful bit of kit in your box. Just be mindful that when you do this, a scent is produced and to get rid of this you may want to add some type of scent like S-Factor or Pro Cure.

AREAS TO TRY Along the South Western highway, just out of Mandurah, there are multiple spots where you are able to get stuck into a few fish and enjoy some time out in the wild. Places like Lake Brockman are a favourite to many, as you are able to stay in a cabin for the night or camp in a tent with your family.

For those travelling from the city it takes just over an hour to reach a

nice location and you are at a relaxing place catching some beautiful freshwater fish. Be aware that when choosing to go more remote, there are fewer facilities. Popular locations to explore span all the way from Pinjarra down to Wellington Dam at Collie.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING The best time to try is generally during the colder months. While fishing at this time of the year doesn’t always ensure dry camping, more often than not, you will find that the weather will allow you to get outside to enjoy all there is to experience.

During the cooler months, you are able to target the fish that roam on the edges looking for food.

During the warmer months, you are still able to catch fish, but they tend to go to deeper water and aren’t as active.

Fishing always has and always will be a way to spend quality time by ourselves or with others, and catching has always been a bonus. You certainly feel like you are far enough away from home to forget the daily stresses of life, and you’re getting stuck into some beautiful freshwater water fish. Why not give it a go?

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Metro

It is time to chase bigger fish around Perth METRO/COCKBURN SOUND

Kurt Blanksby

Cockburn Sound continues to be a hotspot through May, and there will the chance of hooking into some decent fish despite the weather cooling. This is especially true at nights, and this will keep all but the most keen from trying.

Despite the cool conditions, there will now be the chance to concentrate on rock groynes, especially once the first few winter storms come through.

North Mole has a reputation for being a big fish producer during rough weather, but often the Port Authority will lock off access during the roughest storms. However, once the gates are open, get out there and put in the hours. When the rough weather comes through many species will know that it’s time to move in closer to shore for a feed, and big mulloway, pink snapper, sharks and large tailor will be among the species on offer.

The big seas, currents and combination of the Swan River mouth at this location sees plenty of

food items dislodged, and the stirred up water allows predators to hunt without being easily seen by smaller fish and invertebrates. This is the time to dust off the bigger rods and reels loaded with heavier line and fish big baits weighed down with enough sinker weight to hold bottom.

Baits of squid, skinned octopus leg, mulies, whole scaly or slimy mackerel, or mullet fillets will be the go, but be prepared to put up with a few smaller pickers.

Keeping a good bait in the water at all times is the key for success.

Keep in mind fishing from these rock walls, especially at night, is very hazardous and it’s down right dangerous in big seas.

Never fish alone, have a good headlamp and wear reliable footwear that allows you to move across the rocks with grip. Avoid heavy boots, wellingtons or waders, as these are too heavy and dangerous should you end up in the water, instead stick to a comfortable pair of runners or wet suit boots that have steel rock gripper spikes on them.

A long pole gaff means any large fish can be safely

Pink snapper will be showing up after storms from the rock groynes around Perth. landed without anyone having to risk their safety down near the wash zone once a fish is brought in close enough.

North Mole has a great reputation, however just across the harbour is South Mole, then heading south there is Coogee and

Woodmans Point rock groynes that will also be worth tyring, especially for pink snapper. To the north there is Mindarie and Two Rocks that also are well known, especially for big mulloway.

Daytime fishing is much safer and there is still a good

chance of picking up a few salmon by either bait fishing or casting lures.

Winter is also big skippy time from the rocks and going down to lighter line means you can usually pick up a few herring and skippy on small baits of coral prawn fished in a

424 PRO

berley trail of pollard and fish oil.

It’s also time to target squid that will be found during the calmer weather from the shallower areas that have rock and weed beds out from them, like the ones at South Mole. Casting a jig out and working it back just off the bottom is the way to get results, and usually early mornings are the best time, but if conditions allow, have a few prospecting casts at any time of day.

Next choice is the public jetties, with the Ammo Jetty just south of Coogee being the number one spot. Space is limited compared to the hundreds of meters of area available at any of the rock groynes, however these are much safer locations and still provide access to deep water and the same species mentioned above.

Most have lighting provided after dark, as well as bins to try and keep the rubbish to a minimum.

Smaller species like herring, yellowtail and slimy mackerel are easily targeted with small baits and berley, and never forget a squid jig, as May is usually when bigger squid in better numbers start to show up.

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Metro

Head down for bream SWAN & CANNING RIVER

Kurt Blanksby

Some of the best black bream fishing kicks off as the weather cools in May, and although the numbers of fish will not be as thick or the fish as aggressive,

Bait anglers will also be having better results with blood worm baits, small mullet fillets or small crabs fished in the same areas. Use as little weight as possible and cast as close to structure as you possibly can to put your bait into the zone where the fish will locate it.

from these two locations in the Canning River. From the Swan, you can’t go past The Narrows as a big fish hot spot, or the rocky and steep shoreline around Claremont and through to Mosman Bay. Jetties also hold plenty of big fish, but be aware that many are off limits to the public,

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Good black bream are now moving down to the lower reaches of the Swan. the size is generally better.

Bigger black bream begin to move downriver from the safety of their snags and settle into the more saline areas as winter rains push them from higher up.

Lure anglers mostly prefer soft plastic methods at this time of year, as fishing deep and slow with a soft plastic on a jighead is the best way to tempt these bigger fish. Sure, many will still be taken on a hardbodied lures, but with their feeding habits turning to smaller marine invertebrates, this means a hungry bream will eagerly investigate any small soft plastic.

Fishing close to jetty pylons can be very exciting, but any hooked fish will be heading for cover as soon as they can, so be prepared to put plenty of pressure on them to steer them clear early on in the fight.

Here’s a tip: if a good fish does manage to get into cover, be prepared to back the drag off and let it run in, as locking up at this stage will only cut your line. I have found that once a big bream has its own free run into a snag it will usually only go a short distance and gentle pressure applied will usually see them reluctantly led out of

so don’t risk confrontation from yacht club members. If you want to fish them, from them from the shore, casting out to the pylons. Unwanted by-catch like blowfish should be returned back into the rivers alive, as killing them has no purpose and leaving dead or dying blowfish on the shore only portrays anglers in a bad light, not to mention being a hazard to any dogs that happen to chew on one, as they are highly toxic.

More pleasing by-catch is the number of decent flathead that still turn up from time to time when chasing black bream. Mulloway, mostly

Most breamers fish around the jetty or bridge pylons with soft plastics as the weather cools.

Crab lures now come into their own, and a hardbody crab imitation or one of the many soft plastic versions cast and allowed to settle around any rocky areas or under jetty pylons will bring results.

Often the crab is taken on the drop, if not, a very gentle twitch every few seconds to give it some movement will often trigger a bite.

cover. It doesn’t work every time, but it has saved me on numerous occasions from losing big fish amongst heavy snags once hooked.

Bridges are a great spot from now on, and the Mount Henry and Canning bridges are well known for holding some massive black bream.

In fact, many of the biggest specimens each year come

small soapies, will also be a regular catch, as will the occasional cobbler or estuarine catfish when using baits.

Remember that big black bream can be very old fish and are prime breeding stock for the rivers, so if you must take a few for a feed, take the medium-sized ones that are between 0.5-1kg – anything bigger is best released.

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Metro

The best inshore fishing just around the corner METRO OFFSHORE

Allan Bevan

After a summer of never ending southerly winds the cooler weather is a welcome change. I enjoy winter, and at this time I often find

Winter, with the cold fronts the cold rainy days and longing for warmer summer has everyone forgetting that this is the time for some of the best inshore fishing there is.

With the cold fronts and storms that batter the coast

and other life that has been dislodged and is now part of the food chain.

Inshore the jetties in Rockingham, Woodies/ASI, Ammo Jetty, North and South Mole, and Hillaries rock wall are all great starting points for getting

Check out this inshore sounder shot taken just behind Garden Island, showing the mixture of flotsam and good snapper underneath.

A PFD-wearing angler and a samsonfish; not words you would usually run together, but as you see there’s no problem fighting, landing and getting a photo with a PFD on! myself having the ‘trip away’ discussions of Coral Bay, with the amazing fishing that beckons.

at this time of year, the big old snapper are in close to shore, mooching their way through the crabs, shellfish

your arms stretched on good land-based snapper.

On the days you can get the boat out, with care,

sounding in and around the Three Mile, Stragglers/ Mewstone, through Carnac and all the way down the near reef systems to the Murray Reef and continuing down past Falcon Bay is a great way to find fish.

These are all great fishing spots, but please use a bit of common sense when fishing after a blow. Most of these inshore systems will break when the swell is 1.5m or more. I work on the principal that if it looks

dangerous, it usually is.

Now is a good time to put a plug in for wearing of jackets, and I provide Crewsaver PFDs that I have made mandatory during the pre-dawn travelling, and then once dawn has broken and the light is up, customers can choose to wear them or not. So far no one has complained, and it is surprising the number that end up wearing the PFD for the whole time out on the water.

If you haven’t got one yet, the design and comfort of the new PFDs has made them very comfortable and do not get in the way. Get them from your local tackle shop, marine chandlery or, my recommendation, Recfishwest.

Further out, 40-50m west of Garden Island is continuing to fish well. Your best bet is to sound up the lumps, get your drift right and fish hard for a drift or two. With a bit of luck you’ll

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If not, move on to the next spot. Long drifts are not the way to fish these spots. I prefer short drifts or a quick anchor and berley.

One of the spots that I’ve logged away has a 1-2m edge that runs for 50-60m and on the right drift large sand whiting can be caught by the bucket full. This is great fun on the lighter gear.

Further out on the 80-100 edge it’s been fishing well, with snapper even becoming a pest at times. Good captures of red snapper, queen snapper and dhufish have been the norm. One thing that I have changed and found to be working very well is dropping back on the hook size. So instead of a 7/0-9/0 hook, I’ve been dropping things back to a 5/0 and been very surprised by the number of larger fish coming to join the party.

The deep drop gang are continuing to bring in the goods. Banded cod, blue eye and Bass groper are some of the fish that are coming in. Big 3kg sinkers and jigs upwards of 800g fished in depths

What’s not to love about tasty red snapper? of 400-500m are all part of fun, but seeing a 30-40kg Bass groper, blue eye or one of the other googlyeyed fish come over the side makes trip worthwhile. The biggest thing to remember is from the depths that these fish come from they suffer terminal barotrauma, with popped eyes, popped stomach and air bubbles under the scales. For this

reason, it’s a good idea to fish with a larger than normal hook to try select out larger fish that you can definitely eat..

• Shikari Charters is a local Fremantle business running half, full day and game fishing charters catering to small or family groups out from Fremantle. To find out more go to www. shikari.com.au.

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13

Swimming with the fishes KIMBERLEY

Michael Tropiano Instagram: @tropi_the_local

Ever wondered why you struggle with day-to-day social situations? It’s probably because you spend most of your time thinking like a fish. If you are a great angler, whether you know you are doing it or not, thinking like a fish and understanding fish behaviour is the key to your success. While this

able to develop an in-depth understanding of its behaviour.

Unfortunately, no one is giving out this information for free and it can take many years out on the water chasing a target species just to pick up one tiny learning about their behaviour that might prove to be the key to unlocking success.

GETTING UNDERWATER Luckily, if you really want to be able to think like a fish and catch more, there is one way I know that you

By watching from the water as someone else works a soft plastic or drops a bait to the bottom you learn in a few seconds what might otherwise might take a lifetime and actually get to see firsthand how fish respond to baits and lures.

MAIDEN DIVE Recently I went out fishing with my brother and a mate looking for some shallow water demersal action. We sounded up what we thought were some great fish, dropped the anchor

This big lump rose up steeply 4m off the bottom, and looked awesome on the sounder. However, a quick swim revealed there weren’t many fish-holding caves or structure to it. is generally discouraged in most day to day social situations, it gives you a key advantage when you are out on the water.

In the marine science world we refer to this as understanding fish ecology.

When choosing where and when to fish and what bait or lure to use, the better your ability to think like your target species, the better your chances of success. To think like a fish you need to be

can skip this slow learning process and that is to swim with the fishes! That’s not a threat to anyone trying to steal my fishing secrets, I mean literally put on a mask and snorkel, jump in the water and find out what’s actually happening down there!

Getting underwater and watching while someone else fish is absolutely fascinating and the only way to really work out what makes a fish bite.

curiosity killed me, my mate and I chucked on a mask and jumped over the side to see what was going on down there.

The first thing I did was swim out to where my brother had just cast an unweighted pilchard. Surely there would be at least one fish checking that out!

Finding his line I took a big breath and dropped down to the bottom. Half way down I found his bait and spotted two small western king wrasse investigating the offering as it slowly drifted down.

They were behaving in an unbelievably casual fashion, occasionally deciding to take a few soft pecks at the bait, as though they were in a fine dining restaurant. This casual behaviour is classic of a quiet bite time and something I will talk about later in the article.

Then I noticed something much more interesting, sitting just behind the wrasse, behaving equally as casually was a beautiful dhufish around the 60cm mark. It didn’t seem at all interested in the bait and appeared to be happy enough just observing the proceedings. Given our already unsuccessful morning of fishing I wasn’t

If you are going to go under the water to explore, it’s worth investing in a spear gun. On this day the team were lucky enough to pick up this beautiful dhufish in only 8m of water! reason to not feed. I know when flicking lures for flighty black bream, light leader and presentation is everything, but I never realised the impact it could have when fishing for much bigger fish in deeper water.

My brother was heartbroken when I told him how close he had just got to hooking a good fish, but in the long run, witnessing this behaviour was an invaluable lesson and made me realise

time again. Mine is a pink snapper spot I love to visit on sunset. It’s a little 2m lump out in 18m of water and I had probably fished it 10 times before I decided one day to jump in and check it out. Freediving 18m is a little beyond my capabilities, so we picked a nice calm day, loaded the scuba gear and headed out to the spot.

My mate and I strapped on our dive tanks and descended into the blue.

and the excitement started to build. To our dismay, two hours of fishing produced not one good fish. We tried everything in the tackle box but it was turning into one of those days where we would have been happy to even just see a few wrasse come over the sides, at least then something would have shown interest in our baits! All this time we were still getting epic readings on the sounder, so before

If you can find a mangrove system that isn’t inhabited by crocodiles, they are amazing places to swim and you quickly see why it’s so easy for fish like mangrove jack to bust you off in there.

Who would have thought this tiny little nugget was enough structure for a dhufish to call home? This little swim helped the team realise that if the structure is isolated enough, it doesn’t need to be big to hold quality fish.

14

MAY 2019

overly surprised that the dhufish wasn’t having a crack at the bait, but I did witness a little piece of behaviour that I found fascinating.

Eventually after a few minutes, the wrasse finally managed to remove the pilchard from the hook. Then, almost instantaneously, the dhufish lit up and charged in past the wrasse to engulf the bait.

Despite being an unweighted bait and only on 60lb leader, there was something about the presentation of the bait that gave the fish enough

that on days when the fish aren’t feeding, you need to take your presentation of your bait to a whole new level if you want to catch fish.

If you jump in the water and swim around a spot that you regularly fish, it can completely change the way you fish it and how many fish you catch.

A SECOND DIVE While everyone knows that if you smash a good spot too hard it will turn into a bad spot, we all have regular spots that we go to time and

Despite having sounded over the area extensively, I really wasn’t sure what we would see when we hit the bottom.

Once we were down there we quickly realised that the lump we had imagined wasn’t a lump at all, but really a distinct single ledge with big undercuts that seemed to run forever along a north south line. All the life was right under the ledge and despite there being a fair bit of structure around either side, all our target species were only holding up along that ledge. We ended

up spearing a beautiful queenfish (a species we had never caught on line at this spot), and spending about 45 minutes exploring the area, trying to ink into our brains an underwater map

I also know how important it is to get the anchor bang on the money is for this spot, as you need to be sitting right on top of that ledge. This lesson has put a fair bit of stress on

regular spot is even more important, because except for a few visual cues on a nice clear day, without a sounder you are completely blind as to what structure is out there and how it is

This school of wrasse looked epic on the sounder, but were not the target species on the day.

Scuba diving and developing a really deep understanding of his favourite snapper spot means fish like this are almost a sure thing for the author. of exactly how this spot was laid out. I now know that when I fish this spot, I need a southerly wind so that when I anchor my berley trail will run straight along the ledge bringing in our target species.

my friendship with whoever is dropping and pulling the anchor on the day.

WHY GET IN THE WATER? If you’re fishing from shore, getting out and swimming around your

laid out. Visually mapping out your fishing spots will greatly increase your success and allow you to fish with confidence that you know you are putting your baits or lures exactly where they need to be.

Other than, “you should have been here yesterday,” I think one of the most common phrases I hear fishers say is, “they just weren’t biting today.”

If you’re having a day where you think the fish aren’t biting, by no means throw in the towel. The key to not coming home emptyhanded in this situation is the speed at which you are able to identify that the fish aren’t feeding. So many times I have fished the same spot for several hours for little reward, only

to pull anchor and move 100m further down the reef and immediately get into the action.

By getting in the water and spending time watching your target species, you develop a real sense for if they are feeding or not, and if the signals that suggest a good fishing session is coming up. When you are in the water during quiet times when fish aren’t actively feeding, you might still get to see your target species, however their behaviour is distinctly lazy.

They often seem happy enough to just cruise around the reef aimlessly, or they may even be found holding up deep at the back of a cave.

Contrasting this, the bait they feed on are all out and about.

Big schools of bullseyes, wrasse and other reef fishes are often seen exploring the reef well outside their normal cave home, or out gardening and looking after their patch of reef (another fascinating fish behaviour, although knowing this won’t help you catch more fish).

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15

From page 15

The funny thing about all these fish being out and about is from the boat your sounder would be lighting up and it would be a scramble for the rods to see who could get their bait down first, only to spend the next half hour wondering whether your sounder is still set to demo mode.

For most species, the change of light at dawn and dusk bring on feeding activity. Unfortunately, this is pretty hard to observe from in the water, as the low light makes it difficult to see and to be honest, I’d rather be fishing at these times. However, at different times throughout the day fish can come into an equally good feeding mood and observing their change in behaviour underwater is fascinating. When you jump in the water and it’s feeding time for the fish, you don’t necessarily see loads of fish darting around chasing bait and foraging about the reef; often you will see less fish than normal, but there is a real sense of unease around the reef.

Some of the giveaway signals are that the small reef fishes all seem to have disappeared and are now tucked under ledges or seen only briefly as they dart between shelter. The

large predatory fish have changed their behaviour as well, and now cruise around with a sense of confidence.

Having swum with some

dogtooth tuna started to herd me up towards a reef wall and looked at me in a way that made me wish I’d stayed in the boat. That tuna made

could actually mean these fish are hiding as the target species and predators are close by. The more time you spend in the water, the

When there are schools of bait (such as these Woodward’s pomfrets) casually milling around the reef, it normally suggests it’s not feeding time for the bigger predators. really big predators, it’s an amazing thing to witness this behaviour and a nervous time to be in the water. From a boat I would never imagine feeling threatened by a tuna, but I will never forget one instance that a huge 40kg+

me as nervous as any shark I’ve swam with.

If you are in the boat during this feeding time, not getting the usual immediate wrasse bites when you drop your bait down isn’t necessarily a bad sign, and

better you get at identifying the signals of when fish are feeding or not. Being able to understand how to read these signs from the surface means less time wasted fishing quiet patches of reef and a more proactive fishing method.

UNDERSTANDING SOUNDERS Echo sounders are getting pretty high-tech these days, but understanding what is actually underneath the boat still presents a challenge for most anglers.

Every sounder seems to give a slightly different reading for different types of ground and fish. Working out exactly what the readings mean can takes a lot of trial and error. I will give you one quick guess as to how I dramatically sped up this process for my boat. Yep, that’s right! I jumped in the water.

One classic example of a quick learning I had using this technique was dropping down on a spot that had some great readings to find a big school of western king wrasse all balled up underneath the boat. I have spent a lot of time in the water with this species, but I had never seen them ball up like this. As a fish I generally don’t target, working out exactly what a school of them look like on my sounder saved the disappointment and time that may have been spent setting up and dropping baits down.

I now know to keep sounding for target species.

Slowly but surely I am starting to work out what specific reading matches the target species I am after.

The same theory works on identifying what ground is below you, and this again means you will be able to learn more quickly exactly what ground you want to fish and where it is.

DIVING SAFETY If you are planning on speeding up your learning process and want to jump in the water, it’s important to know there are some inherent risks involved in this. Make sure you follow proper freediving and scuba diving safety measures and above all, always go in with a buddy.

Many people for a number of reasons aren’t able to or might not feel comfortable getting in the water, so if this is you I suggest trying out dropping down a small action video camera first.

This is actually a technique that a fair few people are using these days and will also rapidly speed up the learning process. It also allows you to learn about spots that are too deep to dive.

Remember, while thinking like a fish at home or work isn’t a great way to progress your life, it’s the key to success out on the water. If you don’t want to have to wait until you are the oldest person at the boat ramp to be a gun angler, then it’s time to get in the water and start learning!

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South Coast

Get out for some variety ESPERANCE

Jaimen Hudson

The long weekends and holiday period may be behind us, but don’t let that deter you from planning a weekend getaway to Esperance. We still have some incredible weather during May, with temperatures dropping and very light afternoon winds making for an ideal day out on the water or fishing off the jetty.

The Australian salmon run will still be in full flight right into autumn and possibly winter. Last year we had them right up until June, so don’t be surprised if we get another similar run. If you don’t have a 4WD I would recommend heading out around the Esperance tourist loop. It is a 42km journey west of Esperance with some great fishing locations and views to die for.

Stop at several car parks along the way with a good vantage point, then look for large balls of salmon that almost appear at first as a lump of seaweed as many anglers may be mistaken.

I would also recommend going up to any angler you see on the beach and asking if they have had any luck. This can be a good indication if there is any fish in the area If you’re a bait angler be sure to always keep a lure in your tackle box, such as

is a 25km stretch of beach that leads you to the Cape Le Grand National Park.

Along the way keep an eye out for gullies in the water.

These are usually depicted by darker patches of water, often where a rip is located.

and Woody Lake with river prawns for bait. These fish normally can’t go past a fresh prawn, being a local bait in the same area.

Taylor St jetty in town always seems to have plenty of squid, herring, garfish,

Tim Phoebe took this lovely queen snapper.

Fish tend to congregate in these areas. You should be able to get salmon, salmon trout, skippy, whiting and herring from these areas.

If you reach the national park without seeing any fishing locations of interest along the way try Hell Fire Beach. In the past I have

whiting and small skippy.

Utilise premix berley, coral prawns, squid, lures and a squid jig.

Heading offshore now in the deeper water is a great way to find some quality species. Red snapper, queen snapper, breaksea cod, harlequin fish and

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DINGHY WORLD 252 Canning Highway Como 6152 Perth City, WA (08) 9367 6555 These salmon boiling the water at Blue Haven made for a great spectacle. metal slugs and poppers. A Paternoster rig with fresh Pilchards will also be a suitable presentation for these speedsters.

If you do have a 4WD and are keen on an adventure, head out east of Esperance along Wylie Bay Beach. It

seen schools of salmon in the beautiful clear water here. Cape Arid National Park is also a spectacular location to cast a line.

Similar species can be caught here.

If you’re after bream, I would recommend Quallilup

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swallowtail are regularly being caught. Samson fish are also falling for jigs.

• If you need any information or need to top up on tackle gear pop in and see us at Esperance Diving & Fishing at 72 The Esplanade, or call 9071 5111.

MAY 2019

17

South Coast

Stop! Do not pack away the gear just yet!

ALBANY

Callum Dowell

Even though the weather cools and the days begin to shorten dramatically at this time of year, it doesn’t mean the fishing gear should go back into storage. For the avid angler, the pre-winter months are as good as any.

A variety of species are available close to home, as they feed before their spawning season.

Big pink snapper can be quite elusive on our South Coast, unlike the huge

congregations that form on the West Coast. They frequently move around depending on the conditions, and there seems to be an art to catching them.

Walpole is a great place to start and offers a nice weekend away for the family. Rest Point Caravan Park is a great spot and can accommodate for your offshore boating when the tides are high and the swells low. Early morning or in the afternoon are the best times to tempt a big pink snapper.

There’s plenty of great ground just a few kilometres outside of the inlet mouth. Jerkshad style soft plastics are hard for

them to resist.

Mulloway start to play hard ball over the next three months as they disperse into Oyster Harbour and even out into King George sound.

We have an isolated genetic pool of mulloway species only found within our part of the coast. Mulloway have 30 different sub species, with many areas hosting up to 10 genetic types. Because our species is so isolated, there can be a genetic mutation mainly evident in juvenile fish. The most evident being one nostril and deformed gill plates. Some have also

David Parker with a stud tuna that took a live herring.

Big pink snapper like this one are known to come in close before winter hits.

exhibited longer growth rates and smaller maximum size in comparison to the other sub species. I have heard of a handful of fish over 1.3m in recent years, and big hours need to be put in for fish like this. For the keenest mulloway anglers, the Emu Point boat pens concrete jetty during the

wee hours of the morning when the mulie fishers arrive can be worthwhile.

Bluefin tuna and bonito should just be around the corner again. Bald Island is a hotspot, however in recent years anglers who have ventured to the reefs out wider have managed the bigger fish.

Rock anglers have had the best success on the coast between Torbay and Denmark. Casting small metal lures while a rod rigged with a live herring under a float hangs out the back is a good ploy. A bit of patience is required and the action can come and go incredibly quickly!

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MAY 2019

South Coast

Enjoy it before the cold BREMER BAY

Kurt Blanksby

The South Coast can be a cold time in winter, however in May, there can be some fantastic fishing before the really bad cold fronts move in and limit your fishing options.

Rainfall will eventually start to soak in and the run-off into the land-locked estuaries near Bremer Bay will trigger some good black bream fishing.

The Pallinup River has been very low for some time, and a good flush out is what is needed, however until enough rain brings the levels up to break through to the ocean, the fish will congregate down toward the sand bar in Beaufort Inlet.

Both lures and bait will bring results on the black bream in this system, and some easy fishing can be had from both shore and kayak.

Boat anglers should exercise extreme caution, as the low water will mean many rock bars could be dangerously hidden just under the surface.

Baits of small pieces of coral prawn and squid will not only keep you amused with black bream, there has also been plenty of King George whiting caught in the estuaries over the last few months, and these will also be congregating down near the mouth, waiting for it to break through to the ocean.

Just keep a close eye on the legal size of both the bream and whiting, as many small fish are mixed in amongst the better ones.

from now on, as southern swells will be a big hazard along the coast, bringing king waves over otherwise dry and safe spots. You may be better off sticking to the

these delicacies.

Boat anglers need to pick their days, as from now on the weather will play a big part in how safe and comfortable it is to head out.

580

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Closer to shore in more sheltered waters and estuaries, the King George whiting will be a prized target. beaches and estuaries from now on until the weather settles down after winter.

These beaches will produce salmon and herring during the daylight hours, but it’s after dark that the better fishing will take place, especially for sharks and mulloway that move into the gutters to feed.

The only down side will be the weather, and cold temperatures will make night

On the better days, there will be good mixed bags of reef species about like red, pink and queen snapper, dhufish, harlequin fish, breaksea cod and sweep.

If you want your arms stretched, then yellowtail kingfish and samsonfish will also be common species encountered.

Closer in to shore the sheltered bays, and some weed and sand areas are now

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CALL YOUR LOCAL DEALER TODAY Dinghy World 252 Canning Highway Como 6152 Perth City, WA Phone: (08) 9367 6555 There is good demersal fishing out from Bremer Bay when conditions allow, with tasty species like breaksea cod regularly turning up.

Beaches in the area are now fishing well for many species, with salmon, herring, big skippy, gummy and bronze whaler sharks, mulloway and tailor showing up from the better gutters and holes at Reef and Fosters beaches. Most of the deep rock ledges will still produce good catches, and it is critical that you don’t take any risks

fishing a hit and miss affair.

More sheltered and shallow rock spots are a good option as well, and light tackle fun can be had, with numbers of herring and skippy about to provide a good feed. This is also squid time, and casting a few jigs around and slowly working them back will hopefully reward you with a few of

well worth drifting over for a feed of squid. Try and get out early mornings before the wind picks up for best results. Herring, skippy and King George whiting will also be worth fishing for in the same areas, and it pays to anchor up and get a good berley trail going to bring the fish into the area where your baits are.

For more information visit www.stessl.com.au MAY 2019

19

West Coast

Salmon run is here!

AUGUSTA

Anthony Gillam

Autumn has set in and with it comes the stable weather that we all find perfect for fishing. Whether it is offshore or inshore, April is bound for results.

This time of year is dominated by the short salmon season where more fuel, tackle and camping supplies are purchased than any other time in the South West. All to chase the bountiful, hardfighting yet much-maligned Australian salmon.

salmon spots in the Augusta area such as Deep Dene, Cosy Corner, Hamelin Bay and Boranup. Beaches that were usually deserted soon looked like breeding colonies of sea lions had taken over. Closer examination showed that it was more like a meeting of the United Nations, with Indians fishing next to Iranians who were lending lures to Chinese and laughing with Australians who were gaffing salmon for Kiwis.

Nothing brings people together like a great fishing session! When the fish are on it’s only by co-operating

A perfect example of a pink snapper with eyes bigger than its belly that tried to swallow a 7” soft plastic in Flinders Bay. Augusta’s normal quietness has turned busy overnight, with some of the locals deciding that it was time to take off to northern areas to get away from the ever-building numbers of tourists that invade at this time of the year. The migrating fishos looking to catch salmon move with as much urgency as the salmon do in their need to feed and breed.

The beaches and rocks became peppered with people from all areas, some returning to their secret spots along the rocks while others jostled for prime positions along the pristine sand of the beaches much like squabbling seagulls chasing a chip.

Once the call was out on social media that the run had commenced, the exodus of people began from the northern areas to proven

with each other that things work out. If only the nations of the world could see how well 30 people of a dozen nations work things out when a 7-8kg salmon is hooked and decides to cut from the school and cross every single line that is out in the water. Hoots and hollers of excited fishos sound the same in every language.

On 30-31 March, the salmon Sport-Fish Weekender competition was held between Busselton an Augusta. This is predominantly catch and release and raised funds for the Owen Francis Foundation. As usual the timing couldn’t have been better with the salmon run in full swing making the competition tighter than ever. The presentation held at Hamelin Bay was the culmination of another successful competition.

Should you wish to retain the fish you catch it is important to bleed and chill them quickly to make the most of their thick flaky fillets. Much of the unwarranted criticisms of salmon are from those who have never tried it or have mistreated their catch. Have a try at smoking cutlets on the BBQ or battered fillets with chips. You might get a surprise at how fresh, well looked after salmon tastes!

On the boat fishing scene, the weather presented some really nice glass off days allowing some of us fair weather sailors to get amongst the demersals.

Unfortunately cyclone Veronica up north stirred things up towards the end of March, but that soon settled down and the perfect fishing weather was back.

River action slowed down somewhat, with the yellowfin whiting numbers dropping as the water cooled off, however, King George whiting numbers continued to be strong, with plenty caught around The Sticks, Hardy Street jetty and Colourpatch.

Crab numbers have slowly increased with some good catches made by night scoopers and although netted numbers have been down, the sizes have been well above legal and the crabs themselves full of meat.

A pair of early season salmon caught on a 70g metal slice at Cosy Corner. broken ground that with a bit of chart studying and sounder exploring will provide plenty of marks to try out. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather and if the predictions are for a change, make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to get back in before it’s due.

Herring numbers have increased suddenly, as they also do their migration around the southern corner of the state. Although they are not as fanatically chased by people as the salmon are, they are probably caught in greater numbers as a staple bread and butter species all year round.

Frequently caught as a by-catch, the humble herring can be just as versatile as a food source as any other ocean grown protein. Cooked

Herring provide a great fight and are a staple catch in Augusta all year round.

This time of the year also presents some great opportunities for boat fishers to explore some of the areas southwest of the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse when low swells and calm seas are forecast. The area contains plenty of variations in depth, reef outcrops and

whole, smoked or filleted, this tangy addition to the diet is probably one of the first fish that is caught by most of us as children.

It is well worth putting in the time and effort into bringing them around to wherever you are fishing.

Not only are they suckers

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for berley but they also love baits, soft and hardbodies, metal and plastics. I’ve even caught them on pieces of chewing gum when I was a kid.

A solid mixed bag of fish caught near Skippy Rock – not a place to fish in rough or big swell conditions. A life jacket and tying off to a tether point is a must.

Oily pollard, minced fish, crabs or maggots; it doesn’t matter to herring, anything with a bit of pungency or that will make a slick will do the job of concentrating their numbers. The key is to use small amounts frequently to attract them and then keep them in the area.

When fishing baits the most popular rigs are generally the floating or slowly sinking types with strips of squid, fish fillets or maggots making for the best results. For artificials, almost anything will do. Try a fast retrieve with 5-7g metals or small poppers as they are attracted to noise and movement much like salmon are. If this fails to induce a strike, try slowing down each retrieve and eventually you

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will find the speed they want.

Twitching soft plastics on light gear can often entice a decent herring to smack the jig usually setting the hook for you. It’s not unusual for

a nice tail walk and head shake across the surface with some energetic darting runs to ensue before they can be subdued.

• If rock fishing, wear a life jacket and tie off to something solid. You can hire one for free from Augusta Xtreme Outdoor Sports at 66 Blackwood Avenue, Augusta, the local tackle shop and font of all local fishing knowledge. It’s right next to the Better Choice Fuels Service Station.

• The locations mentioned are all well-known and are marked on most vehicle GPS units, especially if they have HEMA maps or a list of locations can be obtained from the local tackle store, Augusta X-Treme Outdoor Sports.

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West Coast

Ready to seek shelter with changing weather BUSSELTON

Stephen Norman

“Salmon, salmon, salmon!” Some people are probably getting sick of hearing that word by now but this salmon season has been a cracker! We’ve seen huge numbers of salmon in the southwest since late March and it hasn’t slowed.

Early season fishing saw the majority of these fish seeking shelter in and around Cosy Corner and Hamelin Bay before moving further north along the coast and rounding cape in early April. With the salmon came sharks, a whole lot in fact. The progression of the salmon was sometimes halted because of sharks and dolphins. They would often hold schools in certain areas for over a week at a time, which made for easy pickings.

Transitioning from April into May often offers a noticeable change in the fishing here in the southwest. We begin to get a taste of things to come over the winter months. Pink snapper have been the first

noticeable change, making a decent arrival in the bay with numbers increasing significantly in the past month. Anglers fish from the boat in 25-35m of water have been hitting the mark and bagging a solid feed without too much trouble, mostly fishing after dark.

This is a good sign of things to come as it means we should see a bumper snapper season over the coming winter months. As always with snapper, fresh squid has been the most productive bait and lightly weighted down a good burley trail is the go to technique.

The second major change has been the squidding action. Though not in mass numbers at the moment, squid have begun moving inshore and catches from the Busselton jetty have slowly been on the incline, hinting of a good winter season to come.

UPCOMING Transitioning into May, we should continue to see big numbers of salmon make their way north between the capes and into Geographe Bay providing that water temps stay nice and cool. If so, the salmon

will hug the coastline and they should remain in our waters for a longer period of time, as opposed to the salmon seeking cooler water offshore.

Weather patterns in May can be hit and miss so the best areas to try would be the sheltered waters of Eagle Bay, Point PK and Castle Rock, just a short drive from Dunsbrough.

During the month of May, we generally begin seeing consistent number of pink snapper in Geographe Bay, this however is vastly weather dependant.

We have already seen great snapper catches during April so coming into May we should see these numbers increase even more prominently due to cold front weather systems. These storms generally bring with them strong northerly winds, and when these winds hit they will stir the bay into a brown soup.

Now while this may look unappealing, it means good things for the snapper. Once this happens, snapper will often push inshore in large numbers as the turbulent weather stirs up all kinds

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Kingfish can’t resist small plastics imitating an injured baitfish. of food such as crabs and small leatherjackets. The good news for boat anglers in this instance is that after these weather systems pass over we generally see at least a day or two of calm weather, allowing boat anglers to shoot out and take advantage of some shallow water snapper fishing.

Last year and in years previous we saw snapper caught from the beach, right out to 35m of water.

Try using either scalies or fresh squid as bait, whether you are land based or fishing from a boat.

Speaking of squid, these turbulent weather patterns will almost always ramp up squid numbers.

Much the same as the snapper, squid will push inshore as the weather declines and anglers fishing from the jetty close to shore in the tinny should see a rise in squid numbers.

Last year we collected our entire bait supply for winter in just two nights on the jetty in May. While you can get tricky with all kinds of squid jigs, I tend to keep it simple. Good quality glow white, pinks and a lemon lime colour will almost always do the damage this time of year. Try using a fresh yellowtail as well – either under a balloon line or on a pencil jig, squid can’t resist these offerings.

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West Coast

Snapper are in snapping mode this month BUNBURY

Grant Teede

With winter rapidly approaching, thoughts turn to the inshore pink snapper fishery with these pink slabs coming in close to shore in great numbers.

The rough weather presents a good opportunity for the pink snapper to forage for food that gets bashed around and dislodged during and following the numerous cold fronts that will be coming through over the next few months.

Due to the fact that they move around a lot looking for their next meal, the best results usually come in the form of setting the pick and getting a solid burley trail going, bringing the fish to you. Some days it will only take minutes for them to appear and once they come up in the burley trail the fishing is generally hot with fish coming one after the other. A berley that consists of fish frames, old bait and scraps works a treat but can be a messy job to do at home. Now days though there is quality frozen burley options available in good tackle shops that are perfect for the job. Once the burley trail is established all

you need to do is present an unweighted or lightly weighted mulie/scalie on a gang or snelled hooks with hook size determined by the bait used – 4/0 to 6/0 sizes are the most common.

I have found occasionally they will go

off the bite (usually when you drop a fish), that being a good time to change it up to get them switched on again. By that I mean put the baits away and try a couple of lures with good results coming on soft plastics with the vibes being especially

Jigs are a great way to get onto the larger models of snapper, just like this one.

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deadly, they can change the mood of the fussy pink snapper. With lures they will hit it out of aggression and can get them feeding freely again.

Another technique to get them biting is to drop down a micro jig of 5-20g, this smaller offering flicking and darting of the bottom will replicate a small baitfish.

You also could get a bonus by catch of any skippy that are milling around the burley trail.

Black bream are a popular target over winter with the Collie & Brunswick River always holding a few, while they can be tough to find sometimes the quality makes up for it. With the cooler fresh water flowing and leading into the river, the winter bream do get sluggish and that means it’s time to get out the soft plastics and vibes.

Slow your retrieves down using long pauses and small movements are the key to targeting winter bream.

There are certain plastics on the market that have a large amount of scent built into them to provide the bream a smelly scent filled target in the dirty water.

In this situation some of the most successful plastics would be the Berkley Gulps, the Keitech Shiners and Impacts. Generally you will

Cam McNish with a pan-sized pink snapper. Fish at this size go perfectly with some chips and salad. need a little bit more weight on the jighead to counteract the harder flowing water,

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so look at using between 1/16 and 1/8 jigheads with a hook size to suit your plastic choice.

In regards to vibes the River 2 Sea Baby Vibes are an absolute killer with either the darker colours or baitfish colours that give off a bit of flash doing the damage.

If you are in the mood for sitting back on the river bank and chilling out, a small ball sinker running down to a baitholder or shiner hook laced with a fresh strip of mullet will usually fool these cunning fish. Call into the store to get the latest info on where they are biting!

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West Coast

Unstable conditions are bringing the fish on MANDURAH

Jesse Choy

April proved that the salmon season is well and truly upon us here in

Mandurah. Those finding success, are generally fishing from rocks or near them, and fish are showing up in good numbers.

Around the ocean side at Dawesville, in town near

Joe got stuck into a few salmon casting stickbaits into the schools.

Breakwater Parade and all the way through to San Remo are all prime locations to try if you are restricted to landbased fishing. Those casting from the beaches are doing well around Preston, Tims and White hills, and all the way through to Golden Bay. If you can find a location with a bit of contour, depth or rock, it is really just a waiting game. Pilchards are proving their worth as usual, being the bait of choice for anglers getting stuck into a few on bait. Plugs, poppers and metal slices are all also worth trying as well, particularly when it comes to reaching the fish that are a bit further out. Colour choices are varying amongst anglers, but it is well known that these fish are not particularly fussy when they choose to feed or react.

There are multiple reports of school mulloway being captured around the previously mentioned beaches, with reports of a few being captured in and around the rivers too.

Encounters are plentiful, but those who are purposely targeting the fish in the rivers are seeing fish caught up to over a meter in length. Those targeting

bream are often on the losing end when it comes to connecting up with one of the bigger models, since

moment. Catching the tuna means refining your approach and being persistent. If you are one of

finding that bites are few and far between, since these fish are generally feeding on a smaller-sized baitfish.

Whether they are big or small, the mighty mulloway never ceases to provide enjoyment for anglers in the Mandurah area. they will relentlessly drag you through the trees and take your gear with them.

There is certainly no shortage of pink snapper, dhufish, King George whiting and tuna at the

the many boats seeing the tuna surfacing, but remain unable to catch them or get close, it definitely pays to cast a small lure around the 3-4” mark. Anglers trolling skirts and larger divers are

While the salmon are still very much active throughout Mandurah, it is wise to be vigilant, especially when in or around the water. At this time of the year, we tend

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West Coast to see an increase of shark activity, as they follow the abundance of food coming up the coast, trying to

Paying attention to your surroundings definitely increases your odds at hooking up, not only while

the weather when it comes, it certainly promotes a feeding frenzy, since there is so much disturbance in

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Danny landed this horse of a pink snapper fishing the rocks in Mandurah. With the right place, the right time and a little bit of luck, this is the calibre of fish you can find yourself catching. make the most of the easy pickings. Shark shields are not necessary, but can provide a large confidence boost when heading offshore, as they have shown their effectiveness and place in multiple water sports. Deterrents always have been popular for obvious reasons, but since you are able to submit a rebate to get a portion of your money back once you buy your shield, it certainly offers some cheap insurance. While they are not necessary, they make it so you are more likely to make it home if something were to occur. While it does not guarantee safety,

fishing for salmon, but any fish. Paying attention to fish timing can also be quiet rewarding, particularly when salmon fishing. What this means, is that you may spot a school, and you will want to note what time they have passed through.

Quite often these fish roam up and down the same grounds repetitively, so they also become somewhat predictable.

If you know these fish are coming past every half an hour or so, you should prepare yourself to be ready at those intervals where you are likely to have a fish see your offering. Ensuring you are consciously focusing on

Make sure that if you capture a tagged bream on the Murray or Serpentine rivers that you record the details and call the number on the tag – you may learn something very valuable about the fish you have just caught! it certainly is one step towards the preservation of life and as with any sort of fishing, it’s all about the one percenters.

Keen eyes have always been an important asset to those who continually catch salmon when the season comes around, so next time you are heading out, it will pay to be aware, as quite often you will get visuals of these fish right at your feet, as opposed to further out.

putting a bit of effort in at this time will definitely increase your catch rate.

Coming to the end of May, we should expect to see the rain and winds picking up. Once this weather becomes a bit more constant, keen snapper anglers start to appear in numbers to brave elements with knowledge that these conditions are particularly favourable. If you can bring yourself to endure

the water. Whether or not it is the sea floor getting turned up, or crabs getting washed out of rocks, it is all very enticing to a big snapper.

Mulloway will really start to fire heading into June, particularly for those trying in the lower reaches of the river or along the beaches. Putting your lure or bait into a location that looks likely to hold fish is a good start, but understanding that the bait will be pushed out of the rivers thanks to the rains, ultimately allows you to zone in on the fish movements. This is not to say upstream locations will not fire under these sorts of conditions, but if you follow the theory that fish are smart and opportunistic, you really want to be focusing on where the bait is coming into the winter months.

If you are going to head upstream, you will find that there are plenty of bream to be caught. The darker the weather, the harder these fish seem to bite, so whether you are using bait or lures, you are really going to find that the bream will be more partial to your offerings.

The rain is a wonderful thing if you love fishing the river, since the flow coming from much further up in the hills disturbs the water clarity, temperatures and tides. Using heavier leaders up around the 6-8lb mark at a time like this is feasible, since the fish can’t quite key in on your lure like they can when the water is slow and clear. The fish are easily triggered, since they know that if they don’t smack it now or soon, it will be gone with the tide or get eaten by something less hesitant.

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27

Knot knowledge 101 NSW STH COAST

Steve Starling www.fishotopia.com

Good knot tying is one of fishing’s most basic and vitally important skills.

Sadly, knot failure is and

the back of the user’s mind about their actual strength and reliability under practical fishing conditions. So, for most of us, the need to tie knots remains… sometimes, lots of knots.

During a big session – when we’re losing tackle to

twists under pressure until the whole thing lets go. The tell-tale sign of total slip failure is a little curly pig’s tail or corkscrew at the end of your line or leader where the hook, swivel or lure once was. Come on… be honest.

You’ve seen that accusing

Not a huge mackerel this time, by any means, but strong connections are still vital for consistent success.

It’s at this stage of the encounter that a poorly tied knot is most likely to let you down. will likely remain the single greatest cause of lost fish and gear. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – the two most important keys to fishing success are a sharp hook and a strong knot. Everything else is secondary!

These days we have no excuse for not using sharp hooks every time we wet a line. Today’s hooks are lighter, finer, stronger and

fish and snags hand over fist, or constantly modifying and re-building our rigs – we might end up tying a dozen knots or even more in just a few hours of fishing. Every one of these connections needs to be as strong as we can possibly make it.

Those same knots may also need to be tied as quickly as practical, in poor light, on a pitching boat, in the wind, rain or cold, and often with hands still trembling

little bedspring in the end of your own line, haven’t you?

We all have. It makes you feel sick to your stomach and so it should!

The second, but equally insidious, form of slip failure is where one or more turns of the knot suddenly slide together, snug down or tighten up fast enough under load to momentarily create an intense friction hotspot.

In nylon and fluorocarbon lines, this friction can

like a question mark at the bitter end of the broken line.

Interestingly, braided or fused gel-spun polyethylene (GSP) lines are much less prone to friction melting than monofilaments, but even more susceptible to total slippage. If they begin to slip, knots tied in slick-skinned braid will often keep right on slip sliding away until they come undone, especially when lubricated with water.

So, a braid connection capable of resisting dry testing can sometimes let go underwater when subjected to severe loading. This is a trap for newcomers to these lines, and helps explain some of the myths that have emerged about all sorts of ‘special’ knots being required when using braided lines. In truth, you don’t need to tie ‘special’ knots in braid… just really good ones!

Knots that cut themselves under load are also bad knots.

The classic example is the single overhand or so-called ‘granny knot’. This is a passable hitch for tying the string on a Christmas present, but not much use for anything else. It’s worth noting, however, that the single overhand knot or ‘granny’ does form the starting point of many fine loop knots.

An overhand or granny knot will effectively halve the breaking strain of any material it’s tied in. In other words, form a granny knot in an undamaged length of 10kg breaking strain line and

you’ve just turned it into 5kg line under a steady load. It may break even more easily – perhaps with as little as 2-3kg of force – if subjected to sudden, intense shock.

these strands becomes the knife and the other the butter.

The result is as inevitable as it is predictable… Ping!

In the next issue we’ll continue our examination of

Loop knots can be critical to getting the best action from a lure or fly, especially on heavier leaders. But these connections need to be neat, strong and well tied.

The weakness of a knot like the single overhand hitch lies in its internal structure, and the fact that, within the knot, one strand crosses over another strand at right angles. Under load, one of

what makes a good knot and look at some basic rules of knot tying that will stand you in good stead, no matter where you fish, what gear you use or which species you chase. Don’t miss it!

We’ve all seen it… that accusatory pig’s tail or bedspring coil at the end of our leader that screams ‘slipped knot’! sharper straight from the pack than they used to be.

But for better or worse, you still can’t buy a packet of strong knots!

Various clever folks have done their best to come up with nifty gizmos intended to alleviate the need for knots by allowing the attachment of a clip or snap directly to the end of your line or leader via a series of wraps and twists. These things work, to varying degrees, but have never really taken off. Many are a tad bulky, and there’s also that nagging doubt in 28

MAY 2019

uncontrollably after our latest adrenalin-charged bust-off. It’s a big ask!

Knots fail for two main reasons; firstly, because they slip under load, and secondly, because they’re poorly constructed or designed in the first place – resulting in one strand effectively cutting another.

Knot slippage takes two catastrophic forms. At its most extreme, the knot simply slips completely undone, with the tag end or tail sliding all the way back through the various turns and

literally melt the outer skin of the mono. Causing an immediate knot failure or – perhaps even more gut-wrenchingly – a serious weak spot that will let go later in the fight, most likely as you strain to bring that catch of a lifetime the final few metres to net or bank.

It’s harder to identify the forensic evidence left by a friction slip failure, but if you look really closely (perhaps using a magnifying glass) you may actually be able to see the little melt spot and a partial curlicue shaped

No room here for knot failure! A big black jewfish or northern mulloway fights all the way to the boat.

West Coast

Great mixed hauls from the bay LANCELIN

Peter Fullarton

There is more to fishing than just catching fish! It is the experiences we get along the way that can make the day’s fishing so memorable and enjoyable, making us come back again and again.

their eggs. You can expect to encounter them drifting over any of the weed and reef areas in depths from 24m out from Lancelin, and again on the shallower weed banks inside the white cray bank.

While they are difficult to hook, they do often take a cube bait intended for demersal species. The bite will be quite different to that

plastics are very attractive to the cuttlefish.

One method I started using last year was to put a whole whiting on a heavyduty squid jag rigged on a paternoster set up. I also add a stinger hook should a dhufish take a liking to the whiting. On the bottom of the paternoster, I use an 8/0 circle hook with a

David Smith has been fishing the Lancelin beaches and getting amongst the chopper tailor lately.

This month, boat fishers can enjoy encounters with migrating humpback whales as they head to their calving grounds in the Kimberley.

Beach fishers are not left out, as dolphins have been attracted inshore by the the mullet schools that hug the coastline this time of year. They seem to have an abundance of energy with all the food available to them, and are very playful, surfing the swells and jumping in the waves. They really do make a mesmerizing spectacle.

Make sure to get out there and enjoy the day; landing a fish and a feed is just a bonus.

The other great migration to expect is one I keenly wait for each year. The delicious cuttlefish move inshore to lay

of a fish. It is like a long, steady ‘pull, pause, pull, pause’ as the cuttlefish is holding the bait trying to swim off in pulses. You will land the odd one, although most will not hook up, or when you do the hook will often pull out of the soft flesh.

If you do manage to set a hook in one, you need to recognise what you have on and bring up the cuttlefish up slow and steady, trying not to pull too hard. Once at the boat, use a landing net.

Don’t try to lift it out of the water or by the weight of the cuttlefish, as will surely pull the hook. Soft plastics, surprisingly, work much better in setting the hook.

I find big white curl-tail

modest piece of octopus or cuttle fish for any snapper or baldchin that might come along. I had some great mixed hauls, landing most, if not all the cuttlies once I started using this rig.

The meat of a cuttlefish is exceptionally good eating, with a great flavour, and it’s tender and easy to cook.

The best part to eat is the thick white belly meat. The rest makes very attractive baits for many species, from dhufish to King George whiting.

May is a good month for fishing within Lancelin Bay. Crabs can be caught in drop nets along the sandy shoreline. Skippy, garfish, herring, tarwhine, snook, pike, tailor, squid and King

George whiting can all be expected to turn up in a berley trail, making for some great action a light gear.

Samsonfish often turn up to bust up on the party. If you hook one in the shallows of the bay they give a great fight. It is always best to pull up anchor and chase them down.

The jetty will be firing up for some great catches, and with a good number of species on offer there will be plenty of options to try. In the mornings the samsonfish are usually most active around the jetty. Squid can be caught casting over the weed beds, and if casting towards the shore plenty of sand whiting can be caught.

King George whiting can be caught casting towards sand holes and edges where the sand meets weed.

Using some berley you can normally bring in some herring, skippy and garfish.

Once the sun goes down, there are swarms of herring that come in under the lights.

Larger boats should be finding better numbers of dhufish out deeper in 60-85m, although there are still fish to be caught in shallower areas. Baldchin groper will still be caught while the water remains warm, but most inshore catches will likely slow over the month. We expect some big pink snapper to be caught close to shore and land-

A good size pink snapper from 30m, taken west of Lancelin. your pots between the swell periods, we expect more of the same to continue.

If beach fishing in May, tailor will be getting more difficult to find in any numbers. Mulloway, tarwhine and skippy should all be featuring in catches more often this month. The swells have been scouring out the beach and gutters, and now they are holding some mulloway and large tailor.

can be a problem if you’re chasing mulloway, as they’ll keep taking the baits.

The swells have also been washing out some of the beaches, making them steep, soft and narrow in places.

A number of stretches along the coast around Ledge Point, Lancelin and Wedge Island are already impassable by 4WD. Then Lancelin area is renowned for catching out inexperienced four wheel

Some good size blue swimmer crabs can be caught along the shallows of the bay.

Guitarfish are always a chance while water temperatures are up from December to May, and are renowned for their strength and endurance during the fight.

based, so it’s best to target them around sunset, sunrise or into the evenings.

If you do come across any bait schools with birds working mackerel, a number of tuna species are likely to be pushing the bait up from below, and it is always worth towing a lure around these schools.

The last few months there has been a great run of inshore red crayfish. If you can manage to get to

During May, we start getting opportunities to fish a dawn high tide. This presents a chance to chase mulloway with some reliability during daylight hours, so it’s a great time to try chasing them on lures. Tarwhine and skippy are usually closely associated with any of the inshore reefs. Virgin Reef north of town is a good spot to find both. Tarwhine bite well on a full moon, often biting all night long, which

drivers, with some of the softest and most difficult beaches to drive on. Always look well ahead of where you’re heading to be sure the beach remains wide enough to drive on, and that there are no erosion cliffs coming up that a vehicle can fall off. On an incoming tide, be sure to stay well away from the water’s edge to avoid becoming one of the many 4WDs that have been claimed by the sea over the years.

MAY 2019

29

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West Coast

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BUNBURY

Jason Harris

The beaches are still fishing well for tailor, with the beaches around Hill River, Island Point and Sandy Cape producing the best. It has been paying to keep the berley going. There have been lots of herring coming in up and down the beaches too. Once again, keep your float or berley cage full.

There are still a few mulloway being caught, and some sharks too. You never know what you might attract with your berley trail.

The fishing from the main jetty has been going well with the main catches being herring and squid. The squid have been a bit small and as a result have been taking smaller squid jigs.

They are still favouring the green or pink colours. The best times are dawn or sunset, but they are biting during the day as well.

Mike caught this cracker snapper while fishing with octopus and mulies for bait. fish around too, especially snapper and samsonfish. Be careful with the smaller fish and release them carefully.

Larger fish are being caught in the deeper water out towards the second bank.

One angler on a local charter

SPORTS MARINE

57 Strickland Street, BUNBURY Ph: 08 9721 4390 sales@sportsmarine.com.au

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MIDVALE

Colin and Bruce caught these big crays close in behind the islands. They used a period of low swell to put the pots right up against the reef.

The best catches of herring are coming at night and make sure you have plenty of berley. The herring seem to be partial to a bit of lumo tube on a long shank hook. Give this a try if the bait is not working for you.

Fishing for the boaties has been great, with good catches coming from inshore as well as offshore. There are plenty of fish in the bay or just outside to around 30m. Dhufish, baldchin and snapper are all being caught.

Samsonfish have turned up in the bay as well, so be ready for a fight if you hook one of those. There are lots of small

managed a 21kg specimen.

The water has warmed up nicely, with water temperatures around 23.5°C just outside the bay. Plenty of tuna, mackerel and mahimahi are being caught. Spanish mackerel are being caught trolling just outside the islands, as well as schools of smaller tuna.

Out at second bank you need to keep one eye on the sounder looking for bait and the other on the sky looking for birds. The Spanish mackerel and tuna will be around the bait. There are mahimahi holding around the cray pot floats. You can

catch them by trolling past, casting or retrieving lures or with bait.

If you get caught up on the cray rope and bust off, remember to mark the line.

Put a cable tie or tie anything around the line near the float.

Professional fishers winch those pots in at a high speed.

Your fishing line, hooks, lure or sinker coming over the rail can easily injure someone. If they see you’ve marked the line they will go slow.

The marina is producing samsonfish, herring, some crabs and smaller squid.

Samsonfish are being caught on the southern marina wall at night with plenty of berley.

They are occasionally being caught inside the marina from the service jetties.

Herring are around at night, as well as some smaller squid. Crabs have been there in good size and numbers, but have been a bit inconsistent and completely absent on some occasions.

The crayfish have moved into the bay and catches have been fairly consistent.

Pumpkin Hollow and behind Favourite Island have been performing best. I haven’t been seeing any more tar spots or berried females, so there will be plenty of keepers in the pots. There should be good cray fishing conditions all through May and June, or until the winter swells set in.

AQUASPORTS MARINE

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PORT HEDLAND PILBARA BOATS N BIKES

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A couple enjoying the rare treat of having the jetty to themselves at sunset.

MAY 2019

31

West Coast

Pelagics still there for the taking GERALDTON

Graham Maunder & Michael Triantopoulos

The latter half of our summer land-based season has seen tailor catches drop away a little in both size and quantity, especially along the local beaches and rock walls and groynes.

late afternoon and into the evening, and with the southerly and southwesterly wind, this means wind is behind you. Casting lightlyweighted pilchards or flicking around small stickbaits and metals has been extremely affective on them.

Mulloway and shark fishing usually picks up from

mulloway, some as small as 20cm, being caught by the whiting and herring anglers inside the bay at Drummonds and Southgates, so stock levels of mulloway are looking good for the next few seasons.

There has been the occasional day where the swell has been low with

has also been slow to start, although they have picked up and are quite plentiful around the Batavia Marina jetties and along Town Beach.

The easterly offshore breezes have been steady, and keen gas ballooners have been making the most of it and had a good run with some quality Spanish mackerel to 20kg, longtail tuna to 18kg, and the occasional cobia. Lucky Bay north towards Wagoe and south along the stretch of beach at West Bank have been producing these pelagics.

BOAT The run of summer pelagics has been slow, with the water being cooler than average and dirty due to large ground swells, although the latter half of the season has seen them improve.

Catches of Spanish mackerel and yellowfin, striped and longtail tuna have been consistent. Pensioners Bank, African Reef, the lumps off Coronation, Horrocks and Lucky Bay are the places to be targeting.

Trolling the shallow reefs around Hells Gates through to the northern side of the shipping channel has been producing some nice coral trout, samsonfish, yellowtail kingfish and the

Boris Ioaniddis caught this Spanish mackerel gas ballooning off the beach. their bottom fishing grounds have had more consistent catches. Dropping quality Sabiki bait rigs around the pylons and marker buoys will get you yellowtail scad, slimy mackerel, pike, pilchards and wrasse, which are all great baits, live or dead.

SMALL BOATS Squid catches have started to improve, and the Pages Beach to Point Moore area has been the most consistent.

of other water users when setting your nets.

There has been some good mulloway and pink snapper for those who have been fishing into the evening behind Seal Rock. Preferred fishing methods have been live herring or fresh pike fillets on a snelled set of hooks with a light sinker. Using squashed or cut up pilchard pieces for berley also attracts and keeps the bait around you.

Aindal Doley with a coral trout he caught trolling a Nomad DTX 140.

The beaches north of Drummonds through to Horrocks and from Cape Burney, West Bank, Flat Rock, and south of Port Denison down to Ten Mile are still producing goodsized choppers, with tailor over 50cm not unusual.

mid-January, but this year the larger fish have been slow starting there run until the last few weeks, when there have been a few mulloway over the magic 25kg mark. Quite a few school sized fish between 8-15kg have also been landed, and these fish have

very little winds, and anglers have been trying there luck targeting dhufish from the rocks. Greenough Point, Lucies and Flat Rock have been providing success.

These areas can also be very snaggy, so choosing a spot where you have broken reef

Co-author Graham Maunder with a longtail tuna and Spanish mackerel caught gas ballooning.

There are still healthy numbers of tailor coming from Explosives Beach, and the SFT Fisherswift 90ST has been a dynamite lure for them.

BEACHES Along the stretch of beach between Pages Beach and Explosives Point, fishing from the sea grass banks has been producing some nicesized tailor, herring, pike and the occasional samsonfish.

It has been fishing better 32

MAY 2019

come from from Coronation, West Bank and the reefs at Flat Rock. Baits such as large pilchards, scalies, mullet fillet and fresh pike fillets seem to be the best bait for most of the larger models.

Earlier in the year there were plenty of juvenile

with an adjacent sand hole is worth a try.

There has been some good numbers of squid around the Handicap Platform on the northern side of the Batavia Marina, and late evening has been when most are caught.

Blue manna crab season

occasional dhufish. The Nomad DTX 140 has been a stand out performing lure in the pink/purple, green/ yellow, dark purple and grey/ white patterns.

African Reef has been producing good mixed bags of dhufish, coral trout, pink snapper, samsonfish, baldchin groper and spangled emperor.

The patchy coral area 7-10nm northwest off the marina has also been successful with dhufish, pink snapper, baldchin groper and sweetlip. Anglers catching live baits on their way to

There has also been some good size skippy, herring, pike and slimy mackerel for those anchoring. Using berley and whole whitebait or baby pilchards has been the best way to find these fish.

Throwing lures into the reef break or white wash areas around Explosives to Hells Gate has provided anglers with some tailor to 60cm and yellowtail kingfish.

Blue manna crabs have slowed up a little, but there has still been some inside the Batavia Marina and Town Beach, just be mindful

• Geraldton Sports Centre is the Mid West’s specialist fishing tackle store. Drop in and see the friendly professional staff for local advise and knowledge and browse the extensive range of fishing equipment on show.

You’ll find them at 204-208 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, or call us on (08) 9921 3664.

• If you are staying in Geraldton or passing through, don’t be afraid to call in to Geraldton Sports Centre for a chat. They are located at 204-208 Marine Terrace, Geraldton.

West Coast

Try and avoid the tax man KALBARRI

Stephen Wiseman

Warm water moving down the coast has seen the Spanish mackerel numbers increase. Most catches have come from in front of the reef at Wagoe, and to the south and north of the Sand Patch. Size has been fairly decent, with majority of captures in the 8-10kg range, if you can manage to get them to the boat, as sharks are taking 50% of hook-ups.

Wagoe anglers using balloons have had some great action, with macks hitting baits 2m in the air and one balloon was found out at the 3 Mile Reef but no fish were attached.

Yellowfin whiting numbers are still good along the sand flats in front of IGA and the shallows around the boat hire. River prawns are the go if you’re after a quick catch.

Black bream are hitting mullet strips around the Pens and there have been reports

of good numbers up river in the shallows. Some hulks to 40cm have been dragging rods into the river, much to the disbelief of inattentive fishers and kids.

Mulloway action has been slow, but the tailor have been consistent at Wittecarra and Chinamans beaches, with the occasional bigger fish taken on gars at Oyster Reef.

Some boats that have been turned around at Onslow due to weather conditions have ended up spending a week in Kalbarri battling conditions, but have still ended up with a feed. The winds are turning and tuna have shown up by the north cardinal marker chasing the large bait schools that are spread through to the Sand Patch.

Pink snapper have been mostly small this month but larger ones are still available to those who persist.

Sharks have been taking 50% of catches at the moment, and they particularly love Spanish mackerel.

Anglers traveling northwest have picked up some beautiful coral trout and baldchin gropers. Most pink snapper have been on the small side, and it has been quite hard to get the good old 60cm+ fish.

Dhufish can be tempted on lures trolled deep, but have then been subject to a bit of harassment.

The southerly buster has dampened enthusiasm for a lot of boaties all along the coast.

Crayfish catches have been good and all of a good size.

Weather forecasts are looking fair and most anglers will be able to get a good feed close to shore early in the day to beat the winds.

Shore-based anglers are fairing well along the cliffs and those using quad bikes across the river are getting some quality mulloway.

Happy fishing this month.

Sharks take another would-be decent catch of dhufish.

4WD SAFETY

River crossing: how to do it the right way Taking your rig into deep or rapidly moving water is risky. Here are some tips to keep you safe.

First, before traversing that flooded river, check out how deep it is, how fast it is flowing, what’s underneath, what the best route is, and how you will need to prepare your rig. Walk through and mark big drops and potholes with a stick, assess the ground conditions and the flow. If it’s a raging flood, don’t walk or drive in, but if the water seems reasonable and you know what you are dealing with, prepare for the crossing.

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY Preparation is everything. Be sure to hook up your recovery gear before you hit the water, uncoil your winch cable and sticky it to your bonnet.

Should you get stuck, you don’t want to deep-dive under to latch on your straps or unwind the winch cable.

Pick out some suitable tackle points on the other side when you walk the creek in case you get stuck

in the middle. Be sure there is good air for your rig. You should have a snorkel or RAI (Raised Air Intake) fitted; if not, keep out of deep water.

Know the recommended submersion level of your model vehicle. Not all snorkels are watertight.

Most 4WDs have air tubes fitted to the diff and drive gear to allow for expansion and contraction as the temperatures shift. The valves on these sometimes sit rather low. They need to be up as high as possible because when you hit the water everything cools down and will suck in air. If the valve is submerged you could be drawing water into your diff.

Electrics don’t love water either, so ensure they are safe. Many of them are fully sealed, if not, dowsing them in WD40 may help, but for really deep water, fit a water bra (a waterproof shield you fit over the front of your rig). Or strapping a tarp over your grill and front end with an occy-strap or three will help push water around your vehicle instead of it gushing

straight into your engine bay.

It will also help with not letting the water hit the fan, which can bend it and hack into the radiator.

GOING FOR IT Don’t hit the creek full blast. For auto vehicles use low range and if possible, choose second gear. For manual 4WDs, low range and second gear all the way through. Don’t change gears in the creek as this can open seals and let in water.

Go about the pace of a fast walk – fast enough to push forward against the current and water mass, yet

slow enough to be able to react to anything unexpected.

IF YOU GET STUCK If you get stuck, stay calm. If you get caught on a big rock or sink in soft mud, first decide if everyone is safe and how to keep it that way.

With touch downs, ease your rig back gently without gushing water up your exhaust pipe until you are free, and then have your offsider guide you around the rock. If you dig in and water starts filling your vehicle, turn it off and get the winch cable off the bonnet. Hook up to that anchor point you

identified beforehand and winch yourself out.

Precaution, preparation, common sense and a clear head will get you out of most sticky situations. Early preparation is the key. Most drivers get all buzzed up at the opportunity of putting their driving skills and rig to the test, but showing off as you thrash through deep water is not a sign of 4WDing finesse.

When you get to water higher than your hub caps, be cautious and check the crossing on foot. Water above the top of the wheels means any large pothole could submerge your engine and electrics, which will be a tad risky.

Before you hit the water consider whether it’s the safest spot to cross, if there’s a better spot somewhere else to cross, if there’s a good exit with suitable anchor points, if crossing can be avoided altogether, and whether you feel confident to get rig and crew safely through. If there’s any doubt, don’t do it.

AFTER YOUR CROSSING Emerging from the creek

will often be on steep ground that is muddy, slippery, rutted or worn. It’s a challenge to drag your waterlogged vehicle out of the water. Once you are on solid ground, stop if it’s safe and let the excess water drain out. Check for any sticks and debris that may be caught on your undercarriage.

Next, dab your brakes hard a few times or drive with them dragging for a bit to help them dry off quicker. Otherwise, if a tree is across your track on the next corner, nothing may happen when you slam the brakes on.

Ultimately, you’re responsible for getting your crew and your pride and joy back in one piece, so don’t take unnecessary risks. Sure, in my TV show we do some way-out stuff, but this is not what you can do with your average 4WD, nor when you are alone out the back of Bourke.

Have fun out in the bush and crossing those creeks – safely! - Jase Andrews, All 4 Adventure MAY 2019

33

Gascoyne Coast

A month of cool relief for the Exmouth fishers EXMOUTH

Jeni Gates

The autumn conditions included some late cyclones that loomed close to Exmouth, but this created some hungry feeding patterns for various pelagic species.

conditions. The last day was very rough, but Team Outsider, with just two crew aboard, managed to spot 10 billfish in the spread, tag a 25, 45 and 160kg black, a 160kg blue, and hooked (just prior to lines out) and landed a 70kg striped marlin to take out the heavy tackle section. Team Azura took

boats targeted the billfish sections over the six days and raised 822 billfish had 559 hooked and tagged 317.

Of those, there were 717 marlin raised, 477 marlin hooked, and 261 tagged, plus 105 sailfish raised, 82 hooked and 56 tagged.

The majority of marlin were small blacks, but

anglers and spectators to the event. The dates for 2020 are already set for 13-21 March, so make sure you get your gear ready, as this is one of the best events you can fish.

The month of May can bring some welcome cool relief after a long hot summer, although, last year it was really hot until June, so be prepared if this repeats.

The cool snap and a low can shut down the fishing for a brief period, but generally

southwesterlies in the afternoon.

Camping can be sensational around the west side and on larger boats at anchor to experience the cool weather without it being too cold.

Squid tend to be more active as the weather cools, along with the whiting along the shore. We recommend trying to target whiting on poppers if you find some good schools, particularly if

Some local crews also head out with swags and extra fuel, but we remind everyone to take extra care, as the weather can turn unexpectedly. Species you can target in these areas of the North West include delicious red emperor on the reef, fierce giant trevally on the surface, rampant billfish and strong dog tooth tuna down deep.

Of course, the spearfishing can be sensational too, with some

One of the many mahimahi caught during GAMEX. The billfish scene in particular was sensational, with small blacks smashing many lures and baits close to

out the Medium and Light Line class sections, while Bri Bollard took out Champion Female. One of the true

there were several blues and striped marlin in the mix, with estimated fish up to 180kg. Only one small

Teaching young children to fish is great fun for everybody involved. speaking, May is a stable month for calm weather.

With the cooler temperatures we expect to have more mackerel close to the back of the reef around the west side, and continued good shore-based fishing in the gulf. If there are northerly winds, it can bring rain, but the general pattern is southeasterlies in the morning and

you have kids, as this can be great fun, safe and easy for the little ones.

Many of the larger vessels that do overnight charters start up with trips to the Montebello Islands and other areas close to Exmouth. These trips can be very rewarding and can have you fishing in areas where you don’t see other boats for many days.

days of clear water, which are just insane. Yes, we are very lucky to have such great options in the North West.

• For more up to the minute information on what is biting and where, drop into Bluewater Tackle World Exmouth and have a chat to the friendly and informative staff. They are located at 3 Maley St Exmouth and can be contacted at (08) 9949 1315.

The Recfishwest fishing clinic during GAMEX saw plenty of smiles on young faces. the back of Ningaloo Reef.

The Exmouth Game Fishing Club held its annual GAMEX tournament and this three-day event saw some incredible statistics on billfish raised, hooked and tagged.

The Billfish Bash only had eight boats compete over the three days, but they managed to raise 177 billfish and tag 75 in some rough 34

MAY 2019

champions of the event was 8yo old Lochlan Turrell from Seatrix, who rode out the rough days on the deck with his family and caught three black marlin to take out Champion Junior.

The following week GAMEX kicked in with 43 boats. Numbers of anglers were down due to the threat of a cyclone, but the fishing was awesome. Less than 30

marlin was brought in for sampling that weighed 27.65kg, and this was great to show the crews the size of fish for estimations.

Recfishwest marine biologists were every pleased to get close to 100 samples from various species brought in for the capture sections, and the knowledge sharing from these special guests was very welcomed by all

Local kids arm themselves ready to take on some of Exmouth’s fish!

Gascoyne Coast

Quiet town producing amazing captures SHARK BAY

Kurt Blanksby

The advantage of fishing in Shark Bay in May is the fact that there are just not as many holidaymakers about, so you will have many of the spots to yourself and no long waits at the boat ramp when launching or retrieving.

Outside of school holidays the only visitors will be international visitors or keen anglers like yourself, taking advantage of the good fishing prior to winter setting in. Shark Bay is often much better off in winter than Perth due to it being just far enough north to miss most of the cold fronts pushing though the South West.

The cooler conditions will not have had much of a chance to drop water temperatures greatly, so many species of northern fish can still be found. Mackerel, although not a prolific as in the warmer months, are still worth fishing for by trolling a few lures behind the boat.

Both Spanish and shark mackerel will still turn up out on the western areas like

Prize big pink snapper will be available for boat anglers all through the cooler months.

Steep Point and north to Dirk Hartog Island.

It’s the bottom fishing that will be the big attraction, as the deeper channels out from Denham and to the northwest closer to Dirk Hartog Island will be good for many species like pink and black snapper, estuary cod and bluebone. On the Monkey Mia side there will also be snapper and mulloway schooling up to keep boat anglers happy.

Keep an eye out for bluebone that also inhabit the weed and sand edges. These can be targeted with baits of crab or prawn.

Shore-based options can be varied, but the shallows will now be cooling off and many species will be harder to find. Yellowfin whiting catches start to dwindle in the shallows, and so do the number of flathead that are caught. On a brighter note, tailor and mulloway will still be showing up, especially late in the afternoon or into the evenings from the Bluffs or any deeper channels near the shore such as those at Monkey Mia. The rugged western most coastline that is made up of cliffs all the way up to Steep Point will have to

be fished with more caution now, as the weather will mean dangerous swells will begin to play havoc with any low-lying ledges. Fishing is still very productive from the safer spots, so there’s no

also put you in with a chance of picking up a pink snapper, small shark or mulloway from the same spot.

A 4WD run up the Peron Peninsula can be a good way to cover a bit of ground

Out from Monkey Mia, mulloway will be a regular catch for many from boats, or at the sand spit after dark for shore-based anglers. need to take any risks. Make sure you stay up high and never take your eye off the water for long.

After dark it will be noticeably cooler, but it will pay to rug up and flick a few squid jigs around under the lights at the jetties in Denham for a feed of squid. A fresh bait of mullet fillet or mulie set out on heavier tackle will

and check out some of the usually crowded camp spots like Gregories. From the shore reefs you can target bluebone on baits of prawn or crab, fish pilchards for pink snapper, tailor and trevally that often show up in this area or fish ultra-light lures or baits for some decentsized yellowfin bream that inhabit the shallows.

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North Coast

Dry season adventures abound BROOME

Troy Honey

Another wet season is ending, but not without the ritual floods from the south cutting roads off, and the aisles of food in the shops are being wiped

bare. For those lucky enough to have stocked up on the tinned and frozen vegetables, it wasn’t all doom and gloom, as this time of year sees the perfect mix of wet and dry season seafood on offer in Broome.

The healthy run of

threadfin and barramundi continue in Roebuck Bay and creeks both north and south of Broome along, with some superb specimens of mangrove jack also coming in from time to time. One thing to note is the size of the threadfin salmon being caught at the moment.

your tackle to its limits.

Queenfish, perch and some very goodsized bluebone have been reported at the Broome jetty, along with a couple of very nice size sharks, which is a challenge all in itself from the jetty. Mangrove Jack have been coming from under the jetty and around the corner in the mangroves next to the slipway.

Earlier last month there were two irukandji stings reported close to this area, so you need to be vigilant if wading in the water, although we are now coming into the cooler months, meaning stings are less likely.

Change is everything in Broome with the two seasons, and one that all boaties look forward to is dusting off the big overheads and heading out to fish the reefs for emperor and coral trout. Those fishing offshore have been rewarded with good numbers and size of coral trout, along with a few red emperors with them. Blueline emperor have been thick at times in depths of 25m or more, providing anglers with solid runs on medium-sized gear.

The bluelines are always

An average size Fitzroy barra taken while slow trolling one of the pools. the blueline is always a hit at dinner time.

Spanish mackerel catches will start building at this time of year, and lures in the 120-180mm range will perform better, as the mackies will generally be on the smaller size. Common ground for them is straight out from Gantheaume Point, approximately 5nm off the coast, and this is where I have my best luck. Looking for the tuna schools and birds feeding and targeting around the area is a great place to concentrate, as

Threadfin salmon fishing in Broome is exciting, and when you land specimens like this one from Chloe Paini, you know you are going home with the catch of the day!

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Everyday photos are popping up with examples well over the metre mark.

The Broome region has well and truly stamped its authority as the threadfin capital of Western Australia.

The next couple of months, as the last few years have shown, will also be exceptional fishing for the threadfin. The barramundi fishing is now slowing down as fast as the water temperature is cooling, and it will be some months before they start to fire again. That is not to say they are not about, but they are certainly not as aggressive as they are in the warmer waters.

With the mangrove jacks and threadfin firing right through the cooler months of the dry season in the bay and creeks, combined with javelin, bream, trevally, cod and queenfish, there is plenty of opportunity to test

Threadies are great fun to catch and great to eat, and best of all are now plentiful in the areas around Broome. Catching one is just a matter of getting your offering in front of it. exciting when hooked up, as they put up a great fight for their size. Being a more prolific fish in the Broome Region, they are a fish that has provided many memorable moments for the juniors and tourists alike, and cooked up fresh on the barbeque at the caravan park

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there will always be mackies amongst them.

For those who prefer the challenge of the larger pelagic game fish, we are heading into the start for the sailfish season. Launching from Broome, it’s probably best to head up to Barred Creek to start your trolling

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MAY 2019

out from there, and this is the preferred tactic by most game fishers in the area. At times you will find them in abundance in this area, with boats raising 15 or more in a single session not uncommon.

For people holidaying in Broome wanting to chase sailfish, all of the local tackle shops and both fishing clubs are always more than happy to provide information of where they are running each week to help you get started. In saying that, anywhere over broken ground from Broome right up the Dampier Peninsula is worth a try.

Always keep watch on the lures and teasers, and if you are having no luck, don’t hesitate to change things up a bit with different speeds.

If you are switchbaiting and looking for live bait, there are ample garfish hangouts around town, such as the town beach and around the protected rock areas of Gantheaume Point.

Using small pieces of prawn on very small hooks and lots of berley always works a treat on them, and in a very short time of an hour or so, you will have more than enough for a day of fishing.

It’s an exciting time to be fishing in Broome right now, with such a variety of fishing options on offer.

Combine that with what is easily the best weather in the country and you have a holiday or day out with the family or mates that will leave you smiling!

North Coast

Variety has put Karratha on the fishing map DAMPIER/KARRATHA

Troy Honey

It has been a month of great weather and mostly light winds, allowing anglers to explore everything from the ease of casting lures land based to heading out wide to chase the fish species of the deep. The slow moving

or from boat. When I am targeting muddies from boat in both the warmer and cooler months I won’t let the opportunity pass by to troll a lure around for the chance to hook up on one of the many trophy fish species that inhabit our creeks in the Pilbara.

Tide change is everything, either low or high

is approaching as you will have to wait it out with your boat in the elements to ensure a safe return of the vessel and possibly occupants.

Along with the tides, be sure to check drop nets are fitted with floats ready to go, as it is a matter of working a few different areas and depths until you find the crabs. Once found, relocate

has often already left with a hearty meal in their stomach.

Nowadays I don’t stop working, once I have pulled my last net I am headed

the shoals in the Dampier Archipelago, I decided to troll a lure while I slowly headed out to a favourite bottom fishing ground.

past Point Samson to the north, I find concentrating on areas in the 5 - 20m mark with drop offs or good reef structure holding more

When spring tides make deep water dropping difficult, there are plenty of options near shore to get onto solid fish. Reuben Bufton did just that on a 5m tide, winning the fight in shallow water with a decent bluebone.

Spanish mackerel are in full attack mode around the islands of the Dampier Archipelago at the moment. The author caught this one while trolling lures over the shoals to the north of Legendre Island. beast of Cyclone Veronica kept both the angler and fish held up seeking shelter from her wrath at the end of March. Which led to hunger for the fish to eat and angler to fish, being unleashed the first week of April.

The Dampier/Karratha region wasn’t blessed with the rain that towns such as Port Hedland had received further north from Veronica, but she certainly helped cool the iconic red dirt and spinifex laden hills down and help to green the place up a bit. The salt flats surrounding the creeks were soaked and this brought out the mud crabs with many locals heading straight out on the following week of neap tides to their favourite spots to pick up a feed. Healthy specimens of the tasty crustaceans were caught, and it didn’t take too long to have the esky holding bag limits.

Mud crabs will “go on the walk” straight after a high tide and this is more predominant with the spring tides. As the water has had the chance to soak the mangrove mud surrounding the creeks at high tide and the vast assortment of food makes it move, the crabs will pounce on the opportunity.

This is the time to target mud crabs with nets either land based through the gaps between the mangroves

works but my preference for drop net fishing for muddies is the high. With my bait of preference being lamb necks for their strength to withstand the brute force of a hungry mud crab when pierced with your wire clip through the marrow section of the neck bone, I will start to put them out no earlier than 30 minutes before the change in tide. Reason being is to protect the meat from the pickers before the crabs start their walk. The meat can be stripped to the bone in a very short time so preserving it until catch time will certainly increase your chances of taking home a tasty northern treat.

While on the subject of crabs, the more southern known delicacy of crab – the blue swimmer, are well and truly out in force and the most common area to find them is Nickol Bay. Nickol Bay stretches from Cleaverville right around to the northern tip of the Burrup Peninsula. It is accessible by boat utilising the Back Beach boat ramp at the end Mystery road. You will need tides greater than 2.6m to use this ramp, as the bay will be dry around the ramp anything below this. Boats could be left stranded in the mud for up to 8 hours or more until the tide returns and this is definitely something to watch closely when nightfall

all of your nets to that area. If you have the opportunity, fit a GoPro camera to one of the nets and learn how quickly the blue swimmer crabs find

straight back to my first net to start over. Blue swimmer crabbing in Karratha is very popular among the locals with many having great success already this season.

Check the sizes of each crab for legality as being early in the season numbers are high but sizes are still on the smaller size.

Having barely set my preferred trolling speed of 6 knots for mackerel, well under one minute from setting my 200mm lure in 5m swimming depth, the Shimano Stella was screaming. In less than 2 minutes total trolling time there were three mackies landed, albeit only half of one

The author stopped for a quick drop behind one of the many islands in the Archipelago, bagging this beautiful bluebone after a morning trolling for coral trout. their way into and out of the net. Over the years I have learnt this is often less than 5 minutes and by waiting over twenty minutes until retrieving the net the crabs

The main fish species to start firing up as the weather cools is the Spanish mackerel. After a recent morning casting poppers for GT’s out over one of

due to the taxman deciding to get in on the action. While you can be lucky enough to find the mackies over a vast area from 40 mile to the south of Karratha to

fish. Troll along the edges of these areas for best success.

With the weather really turning it on at this time of year, it is far less challenging to find trophy reef species out in the deeper water and in the next month’s article we will look at that more closely. For now I would like to highlight the abundance and ease of catch of the lesser-targeted species of near shore finfish such as the spanish flag, moses perch and variety of cod such as the black or gold spotted.

All of these fish are fantastic eating. They offer great fun on light gear and you do not have to venture far to enjoy the action. They can be caught from the many of the rocky out crops in the region on rod or hand line as well as small tinnies up to larger vessels. Most baits work well or if you prefer soft plastics and jigs you will have no problem hooking up.

You can find these species all year round in less than 1m of water, right down to 50m+, and spending a day exploring the islands of the archipelago fishing the surrounding reefs will provide the opportunity enjoy these fish.

After spending countless days fishing for whiting, tailor and bream in my earlier days of fishing in the south of WA (these fish are nothing to knock), but having the abundance of near shore finish species we have in the Karratha region is certainly something I really appreciate.

MAY 2019

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Great variety to keep you entertained this May FRESHWATER

Peter Fragomeni

Some exciting news has come forward from the Pemberton Trout Hatchery with the number of larger size fish available for stocking this year up compared to last year.

and must say it was great fun on my small 5wt fly rod.

There are also 10,000 standard yearlings available and 2500 brood rainbows that average about a kilo in weight, ready for stocking in winter/spring this year The other exciting news is there will be 350 brown 3yo broods available and

Aussie natives are being caught in increasing numbers and of note is the increase of Murray cod being caught from as far up as Geraldton all the way to Albany, although exact locations are being guarded by those in the know. If you happen to find a few you might want to take this similar stance by

A nifty brown trout caught in the Pemberton area. The colours on these fish are pretty cool and the ones in this area are generally quite healthy.

There will be 6500 advance rainbow trout yearlings available, up from 3500 last year (advance yearlings are fish that are of approximately 1yo and have been grown with more pond space and fed more food so they attain approximately 30cm in length before they are stocked).

The trial stocking of 3500

a bonus 150 brown 2yo trout going in this year well up on last year. A further 680,000 fry will be available in spring. This is a great achievement by the guys at the hatchery and a step in the right direction for WA. My vision is that one day they will only stock yearlings and more trophy size fish will be available in the future.

keeping it under your hat as our authorities treat these as feral species in this state.

DAMS Waroona Dam Water levels are way up with a few reports coming in of trout being caught, so it is definitely worth a look as the hordes of skiers are less active in May. Redfin numbers have been inconsistent with

Zac Faulkner with a large brown trout that went over the Drakesbrook Weir spillway in spring. well. Look for the schools if you have a good sounder and fish them with soft plastics that get down to where they holding.

Logue Brook Dam Most anglers choose to give this water a miss but good fishing can be had if you are lucky enough to have

got there due to the hot days on my visit.

Redfin have been harder to locate in numbers but this dam always produces if you put the time in.

Brown trout will be stocked this year and some are very large. This will offer great sport when the time

and it staggers me why it’s not on the stocking list as trout do well in this slightly saline water. This was again proven at the recent Perch Bash held in late March with a good condition 33cm rainbow trout caught by one of the competitors. I have pushed hard on the stocking

Mixed bags of rainbow trout and redfin are always welcome, with these specimens coming from one of the dams close to Perth.

Silver perch are available this month and Kepler Weber is becoming the guru on the West Coast Aussie natives. last year resulted in better catch rates than stocking standard yearlings that can be as small as 15cm in length and more susceptible to predation by large redfin and the smaller cormorants.

I personally landed nine of these advanced yearlings in a quiet bay on fly last spring, 38

MAY 2019

Reports of good trout are being taken with the cooler weather setting in across our state and a not so surprising report of a rainbow trout being caught at Wellington Dam. Redfin catches have been consistent with some nice specimens coming from our dams and rivers recently.

some anglers able to get their fare share, whereas others drawing blanks.

Drakesbrook Weir A nice size brown was spotted on the far side but refused all offerings. Redfin have been caught trolling hardbody lures, but those off the bank have not fared so

a kayak or boat to cover plenty of water. May is my favourite month to fish this water.

Harvey Dam I fished here in March and must say it was very slow with the one day being the exception. A number of trout were seen rising in a cool spell a few weeks prior to me being there, but they had gone deep by the time I

comes. This water will also receive advance yearlings for the fist time so that’s a positive as they did so well in the other dams further north.

Glen Mervyn Dam This small water to the south of Collie receives a good stocking so is worth a visit, however reports have been slow of late.

Wellington Dam By far our biggest dam

committee to trial 2000 rainbow yearlings and 1000 brown yearlings this year, as we owe it to the freshwater angler that pay money to fish this dam for a feral species, being redfin and not having trout on offer. Having said that a number of large redfin were caught on the Sunday of the Perch Bash Competition.

This water is still earmarked for a stocking

of bass and golden perch but the excuse of lack of funding is thrown in our face often. I feel that the reel reason is the green culture that is so vibrant in this

Big Brook Dam After all the bad publicity this dam received in January following the rapid draining (by Watercorp) down to around

rainbow and brown trout being taken late afternoon and early mornings. Time will tell if this dam returns to how it fished before the draining.

stocking strategies more carefully.

RIVERS Murray River Reports have been slow on the trout side but redfin are being caught through out the system.

Collie River below the dam Some nice trout have come out over the last few weeks but this water suffers when the irrigation flows ceases in May, so be aware that fish become wary and

early rains, as the fish will push upstream with the fresh early rains.

Lefroy Brook A good number of trout have been sighted in around Thompsons Flat but they have been very wary and spook easily to a careless approach.

Lower downstream reports have come through of very large browns over the 60cm mark lurking in the heavily wooded sections making casting almost impossible.

being caught is increasing every year, with some over a metre in length hitting lures at different times of the day. These are a result of illegal stockings because our authorities have taken a closed approach on the situation and angered a few freshwater anglers that are only to aware of the fantastic fishing our eastern neighbours are having at the present. You will not get any locations on where

Murray cod are becoming more common in some WA freshwater bodies. state, plus the fear of the unknown, meanwhile redfin play havoc on the native species unhindered by any real predator!

46% capacity (resulting in a number of nice size trout perishing), it seems that some fish have survived with some reports of both

The good news is that Recfishwest has worked with Watercorp and any future works will be advised in writing, so we can plan

One of many large redfin caught at the Redfin Bash held at Wellington Dam recently.

Trolling our dams can be the most productive way to fish at times. seek out the deeper water for cover.

Blackwood River Some trout have been caught through the Nannup area, so with a bit of rain things should get better.

Donnelly River Not many reports have come through, as not a lot of anglers tend to fish this once prime water. I would give the section both above and below boat landing a go, as May is the prime month to be targeting this water. You need a boat or kayak to fish this area with any degree of success and trolling lures close to the structure is my preferred method.

Warren River The condition of the rainbows have been above average this last season with a number of browns coming to the net as well. I would be targeting the lower section in May and the closer to the sea the better. This could change if we have good

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A 9¼lb brown was caught out of a small stream in the area and if he had gone to the trouble of officially recording it, would now be the state record– although a larger specimen was caught at 10lb and that was also never officially recorded.

The cast of this fish still stands proud on the wall of the trout clubs lounge to this day.

AUSSIE NATIVES As I mentioned earlier the number of Murray cod

they are being caught in fear of belly fishers getting the word, or worse still our authorities knowing their whereabouts.

Other species that are being caught are silver perch, bass and golden perch, which are rarely caught and I’m not sure why that is the case.

Hopefully one day we will see a government stocking program so everyone can experience what these great sport fish have to offer in our inland waters.

PREDICTED DAM LEVELS Most dams are still well up on this time last year, the exception being Big Brook Dam that was drained for wall maintenance in January.

WAROONA DAM DRAKESBROOK WEIR LOGUE BROOK DAM HARVEY DAM WELLINGTON DAM GLEN MERVYN DAM BIG BROOK DAM

65% 77% 61% 43% 55% 48% 42%

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39

FUN PAGE AND COMPETITIONS LAGOON LAKE RIVER STREAM OCEAN SOUND STRAIT CHANNEL GULF SEA ESTUARY

BODIES OF WATER

DTD - REAL FISH OITA

RESERVOIR BAY INLET SHOAL COVE CANAL ARM BAYOU CREEK DELTA GULF

Name: Address:

P/Code:

The first correct entry at the end of each month will win the prize pack.

SEND ENTRIES TO: WA Find-a-word Competition, PO box 3172, Loganholme Qld 4129

WA MAY 2019

Phone (day):

FINS SCALES & TALES by A. Both

The ‘Real Fish Oita’ is an incredible, award winning squid jig manufactured in Europe by leading Croatian company - DTD. Taking out the coveted ‘best new product’ in its class at the EFTTEX 2015 Expo in Warsaw, this wonderful range is now available in Australia through Dogtooth Distribution.

The product imitates real fish species. This coupled with DTD’s use of only the highest grade materials available, ensures great balance and results in superior catching ability. With the unique ‘fish parasite’ feature, aimed at luring predators in for an ‘easy kill’, these truly unique jigs are set to explode into the Australian market.

FEATURES - Double weight system with inner weight designed to produce sound while squid jig is in action.

COLOURS - 7 different designs representing popular fish species.

ADDITIONAL - Luminous body, fish parasite, great balance, sound effect, quality stainless steel hooks SIZES - 5 Sizes available www.dogtoothdistribution.com.au

SPOT THE

10 DIFFERENCES

BARRA COUNTRY by Brett Currie

ORIGINAL

FIND-A-WORD

Congratulations to, Allan Hogan who was last month’s winner of the Find-a-Word Competition!

Monthly winners receive a Fishing Monthly prize pack. Prize delivery can take 8 weeks. – WAFM

SUBSCRIBER PRIZE

The subscriber prize winner for March is R Lambly of Malaga, who won an E.J. Todd Prize Pack to the value of $300.

All subscribers are entered in the monthly subscriber prize draws. Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – WAFM

of Bridgetown, A Hogan of Parmelia, L Nagy of Mullaloo, M Jacobs of Safety Bay, R Taylor of Rockingham, A Savundra of Mt Claremont, C Heslewood of Busselton, M Curry of South Guildford , D Ainslie of Warnbro, D Werder of Dawesville, J Addenbrooke of Maddington, M Rothwell of Leanyer, K Culshaw of Banyo, N Martin of Winthrop, G Higgins of Eaton,

P Baskerville of Broome, S McDonald of Halls Head, N Metcalfe of Falcon, R Warren of Wagin, D Welkerbout of Dunsborough , L Gibbs of Boulder, C Bowling of West Pinjarra, G Black of Geraldton, D McGillivray of Moora, I Watson of Bonville, B Simmonds of Silversands.

Prize delivery takes up to 8 weeks. – WAFM

LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS

© A Cordelia Adams original artwork. Instagram: clausdoesart

FIND THE GAMAKATSU LOGO

40

MAY 2019

This month’s Guess the Fish Answer: Whiting

The answers to Find the Gamakatsu Logo for March were: 10, 14, 21, 22, 26, 31, 33, 37, 38, 40, 53, 54, 57, 60, 63. – WAFM The Find the Gamakatsu Logo prize winners for March were: B Bizjak of Boddington, J Bremmell of Brunswick, M Drazic of Mandurah, F Fraser

GUESS THE FISH?

Answer:

BLACK MAGIC

MASTER CLASS

/ W I T H PA U L L E N N O N

Learning about leaders Last month we talked about hook choice and how it’s one of the little things that often gets over looked by anglers but greatly increases your chance of success.

This time I want to go into another critical but often over looked element, and that’s selecting what leader you should be using.

Depending on what species you are targeting, what size they are and where you’re fishing as well as leader length should all greatly impact your leader choice, in regards to size and material.

The two types of leader material to choose from are

Fluorocarbon sinks faster and also absorbs light, making it virtually invisible in the water.

The attributes for each type of leader will benefit certain types of fishing but are not so great for others, so it’s important to choose the right one.

FLUOROCARBON The greater abrasion resistance fluorocarbon often makes it a great choice for any kind of fishing where you’re likely to encounter structure. It’s ideal for fishing for bream off break walls, for drummer near oyster racks, and for groper off the rocks, but also for locking up on big kings or snapper heading for nasty terrain.

in the estuary, to tailor on the beaches, through to marlin.

My favourite choice of fluorocarbon to use is the black magic Tough FL. This stuff is available from 4lb through to 120lb and is quite stiff, even by fluorocarbon standards. This stiffness gives it a decent abrasive resistance.

Many standard knots that work with mono don’t work great in fluorocarbon.

For braid to leader connection knots in heaver fluorocarbon, Albright and uni knots become quite bulky and it is difficult to get the knot tight. A slim beauty knot is a better alternative, or even better is the PR or FG knot.

When tying the PR and FG in

Leader choice will play a big role in your fishing success. lure easier to work and it will swim better too.

Knots like the PR and FG are better with mono, and mono also behaves better when casting longer heavier leaders through rod guides.

Black Magic Tackle has two ranges of mono leaders, tough and supple, so they cover all bases. They also make a pink coloured version, which although relatively new is proving to be a real hit.

Pink is considered to be the first colour to disappear in water, especially in low light or murky water situations.

I noticed a difference when

using pink leader for the first time against the clear while live baiting for mulloway in deep estuary holes. The pink noticeably out-fished the clear on several occasions, and for this type of fishing this is all I use now.

Another handy leader device Black Magic do to make life easier is a leader dispenser that holds and organizes five spools of line. This keeps everything in order with only a small tag end of each line poking through that can be pulled out and cut to the desired length when required.

Learning the FG knot will greatly increase your success. Not only is it far stronger, but it is about a third of the size of your typical Albright knot (above) making it perfect for casting longer leaders through rod guides. mono and fluorocarbon.

Mono is supple and soft with more stretch, while fluorocarbon is a stiffer material giving it greater abrasion resistance.

It’s also perfect for those fish with raspy mouths that can wear through softer leaders of the same poundage during long fights. This can be anything from big flathead

fluorocarbon, you’ll need to take extra care to make sure the knot is tight as it’s much harder for the braid to bite into the tougher material.

When it comes to terminal

There is nothing worse than tangled leaders. It pays to have all your leaders ready to go, as you never know which one is going to produce the fish.

connection knots, try doing a few less turns then you would normally do for mono especially in sizes above 60lb.

A simple blood knot with out being locked like you would with mono will tie heavier fluorocarbon nicely and never slip.

MONO LEADERS

While on paper fluorocarbon has many advantages over mono, there is still plenty of fishing where mono is the preferred choice.

The suppleness of a mono leader will make lures swim more naturally, especially in heavier sizes where the stiffness of fluorocarbon becomes more evident. It’s also the better option when running more than a rod length of leader, which is often the case for finesse style fishing situations, like targeting spooky trout in a lake system or bream over the flats with ultra light leaders.

Mono leaders are also best for surface luring, whether you’re targeting bream, whiting, bass or stickbaiting for tuna. Mono leaders have a slower sink rate than fluorocarbon, which makes the

Black Magic leader storage systems are the best way to keep your leaders in order and ready to go at all times.

MAY 2019

41

WHAT’S NEW FISHING RAPALA MAX RAP WALK’N ROLL

1

The ‘do-all’ topwater bait, Max Rap Walk’N Roll spits, bobs, skitters, and slides across the surface in all conditions. The Walk’N Roll lure is weighted for maximum casting distance and ultimate stability in bad weather and rough conditions.

Under a steady retrieve the Max Rap Walk’N Roll spits and rolls from side-to-side, and twitching and pausing creates a walking action. Cranking it in fast imitates a fleeing baitfish, while twitching it in place gives a head down bobbing motion.

Fitted with VMC 7554 2X-Strong Ti coated inline treble hooks, the Walk’N Roll has a total length of 120mm, weighs 29g and is available in eight amazing high-quality finished colours that Rapala is world renowned for.

Ask for them at your local tackle store today. www.rapala.com.au

MOLIX RT SHAD & SV CRAW

2

Italian lure company Molix has expanded its range of soft baits with the addition of the RT Shad and Molix SV Craw.

The RT Shad’s profile shape and bulky paddle tail give it a realistic movement, and also provide great stability. It has a soft, high density construction, and is effective on both freshwater and saltwater species.

The RT Shad is available in a range of fish-catching colours, and it has a special insert with a high concentration of glitter to maximise flash during the retrieve. There are two sizes, 11.4cm (4.5”), 9cm (3.5”).

The Molix SV Craw’s has very realistic claws that have been engineered to catch water, resulting in an enticing flapping action. A perfect trailer, it’s loaded with Molix’s exclusive crawfish scent for added attraction. This sinking craw measures 6.9cm (2.75”). www.ejtodd.com.au

SHIMANO SLX XT

3

The new Shimano SLX XT has been released, and features the new SVS Infinity breaking system. This provides a much wider brake adjustment range than the 2018 SLX, so you have much greater control using the external dial to adjust the braking system with ease.

This allows you to cast a wider range of lure styles and weights in varying fishing conditions.

The aluminium Hagane body also helps to ensure that the reel is extremely rigid and durable, which is an upgrade on the composite body of the Casitas.

Inside the XT’s Hagane Body, durable brass gearing delivers reliable cranking power and now 4+1 bearings to ensure the reel is smoother than before. Developed to replace the Casitas 150, the XT has a more versatile and compact size that is comparable to a 70 sized reel, however the XT offers the line capacity of a standard 150 size.

A 48mm Throw Handle across three right hand model options, featuring gear ratios of 6.3:1, 7.2:1 (HG) and 8.2:1 (XG), and the max drag setting is now 4.5kg.

Price: RRP $229.95 www.shimanofish.com.au 42

MAY 2019

PRODUCT GUIDE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BLACK MAGIC KLT 10/0 AND VALUE PACKS 4 Black Magic’s premium non-offset recurve hook, the KLT, has become so popular that they have expanded the range to include a 10/0 size as well as a value pack option for their 8/0 and new 10/0 size. The value packs offer a bulk buy price for KLT fans.

The new 10/0 size will be ideal for a range of applications from live baiting through to skip baiting, deep sea fishing and targeting big fish with big baits.

The KLT hook boasts some seriously good features including: light gauge/extreme strength; non-offset recurve; ‘Super Slip’ non-stick PTFE coating for advanced rust resistance and superb penetration; and IGFA legal and NZSFC approved for tournament use. These hooks are made in Japan with premium grade high carbon steel.

For more information on Black Magic’s range of hooks visit the Black Magic Tackle website. You can also see the latest news and catch photos on their Facebook page and Instagram. www.blackmagictackle.com

OKUMA SLV FLY REELS

2

5

The Okuma SLV Series of fly reels are stylish, lightweight, quality and featurepacked, while still offering excellent value for money.

Features include ALC: Alumilite diecast aluminium frame, precision machined stainless steel spool shaft and brass bushing drive system, one-way roller bearing with the ability to quickly and easily switch from right to left hand retrieve and a multi-disc cork and stainless steel drag system for smooth drag control. These reels have a Diecast Super Large arbor spool design for rapid line retrieval when dealing with fast running species, and have non-slip, positive grip rubberized handle knobs.

Okuma SLV fly reels are available in five sizes to cover a range of applications, from trout in the fresh to pelagics offshore. Suggested retail prices are $119.90 (4/5 and 5/6), $129.90 (7/8 and 8/9) and $139.90 (10/11).

For more information on the Okuma range visit the Okuma Australia website, or check them out on Facebook at www.facebook. com/okuma.australia for catch photos and competitions. www.okuma.com.au

ZEREK PYRA

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Designed for shallow water applications, the Zerek Pyra has a unique action and is one of the latest additions to the Professional Craft stable of lures.

Built with tough ABS plastics for durability, the 95mm Pyra is equipped with a weight transfer system to enable long and accurate casts. A tight roll gives this lure a seductive action that will prove irresistible to many species of fish.

Available in 10 high quality colour finishes to suit varying conditions, the Pyra weighs 11.8g and will make a mark wherever a shallow water crankbait is needed to excite predators.

For more information on this and other lures in the Zerek range, visit the Wilson Fishing website. You can also see all the latest news and catch photos on Facebook page (www. facebook.com/ZerekAustralia), Instagram (@ wilson_fishing) or YouTube (www.youtube. com/user/Wilsonfishing). www.wilsonfishing.com

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visit www.tacklejunkie.fish for the latest tackle news - AS IT HAPPENS!

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PRODUCT GUIDE

WHAT’S NEW FISHING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

WILDFISH FLY SELECTION PACKS

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The Wildfish fly selection packs from JM Gillies are sure-fire winners for those new to fly fishing, or for fly fishers who want to target new species or locations that they haven’t fished before.

There are nine packs (10 Felty’s flies in each) in the range, and each pack is tailored to individual species and locations.

However, there is plenty of overlap between them. For example, the Trout Streamer Pack would easily be at home in the kit of a bass fisher, while the Bass Pack contains flies that are just as at home in many tropical freshwater systems right across the north. And in the Billabong Pack, there are flies that would light up the eyes of a bass angler.

All in all, it’s a very versatile selection that has been put together by Peter Morse. The newest additions in the Wildfish Fly Pack range are the Inshore Pack, Flats Pack and Barra Pack, and they are sure to please many fly fishers. www.jmgillies.com.au

Rhino-Rack’s Batwing Compact Awning is packed with all the same features of the original Batwing Awning but redesigned to fit small to medium vehicles.

With 270° of shade and 6.4m² of coverage, the Batwing Compact is made from ultradurable, water and mould resistant lightweight material that has been tested in the most extreme environments. It has UPF 50+ sun protection.

The Batwing Compact comes with integrated lightweight aluminium black powder-coated legs that simply unclip from the storage position and drop into place, making installation a breeze – even with only one person. The legs also feature moulded fittings to accommodate two pegs directly through the base, to offer further stability in gusty conditions.

The whole bundle is stored in a heavy-duty UV-resistant bag with an integrated pocket for the pegs and rope. The kit includes 2 x multi-fit bracket + hardware, 10 x pegs, peg bag, 8 x guy ropes (4 with hooks), 2 x spare hinge knuckles.

Price: SRP $769 www.rhinorack.com.au

NEW RAPALA KNIFE 8 AND SCISSORS

QUANTUM SMOKE S3

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DAIWA SWIMBAITS

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Two of the latest releases from Rapala are the RCD 5” Folding Knife and the RCD Retractable Line Scissors.

The RCD 5” folding knife conveniently folds in half to safely secure and protect the handground stainless steel blade when not in use.

The easy release lock-back design fixes the blades safely in place when being used, while the non slip soft grip handle with built in safety guard provides maximum blade control.

16cm in length when unfolded with a Blade size of 12.5cm.

Safety takes priority when it comes to the Rapala RCD Retractable Line Scissors. Two super-sharp stainless steel blades retract into the surrounding casing when the triggers are released, exposing the blades only when in use. A built-in carabiner allows you to keep these scissors close by at all times.

The RCD 5” Folding Knife and RCD Retractable Line Scissors are available now at all good tackle stores. www.rapala.com.au

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SHIMANO GRAPPLER 19

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COMPACT BATWING 10 AWNING

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The new Shimano Grappler 2019 series are the next generation offshore JDM rods, equipped to battle with the largest offshore predators. This upgraded series now features both Spiral X and Hi-Power X blank technology to enhance power, strength and durability. With 19 dedicated Type J (Jigging) and Type C (Casting) models that are PE rated from PE 2.5 to PE 8, there is a wide range of options to suit Australian anglers.

The patented high-strength Spiral X enhances torsional and compression rigidity under load without adding extra weight to the blank, providing instant power transmission for precise casting and control over fish.

The Hi-Power technology enhances the torsional resistance even further, and creates the optimum balance between light weight, strength and control. These rods also feature Fuji reel seats and Fuji K Guides with SiC tips, and specially tapered grip designs.

Whether it be heavy kingfish jigging or topwater GT casting, the rods have been tested in the harshest of offshore environments around the world, resulting in a line-up that is capable of grappling with the strongest of ocean predators.

Price: SRP $429.95-$499.95 www.shimanofish.com.au

Barra, bass, and cod anglers will salivate at the sight of the new Quantum Smoke S3 Baitcaster reel.

The Smoke S3 packs a larger 35.5mm spool into a compact aluminium X-Frame to provide a large line capacity, longer casts, and greater line pick-up with every crank of the power handle.

To complement the larger spool, an advanced and lightweight ACS 4.0TM cast control system has been engineered to minimise the amount of energy it takes to get the spool spinning during a cast. This remarkable system also features additional control brakes that disengage at around 5,000 RPMs to maximise casting distance.

The Quantum Smoke S3 Baitcaster includes 10 PT Bearings (10+1) and a Zero Friction Design for incredible smoothness. The reel is coated with Saltguard Protection for added durability in the most testing environments and also includes the remarkable Quantum CSC Ceramic-Carbon Drag System with a huge 25lbs of drag pressure. www.quantumfishing.com.au

The Daiwa Duckfin Live Shad, Hybrid Swimbait, and LiveTrout Swimbait have you covered for this year’s swimbait season.

The Duckfin Live Shad features a 3D designed, ultra realistic baitfish profile and swimming action, and is available in two sizes, 15cm and 20cm. This soft plastic shad is suited to slow and fast retrieves and presentations, and can be rigged in a host of different ways, including weedless for barra and as a trailer for large spinnerbaits/chatterbaits when targeting Murray cod.

The Hybrid Swimbait delivers the best of both worlds and combines diving lure design with soft plastic technologies. Rigged and ready to fish, the Hybrid Swimbait features a solid head, bib and heavy wire internal construction in the head, 5X strong trebles and a quick release stinger hook. It’s available in two sizes, 18cm and 25cm.

For those looking for the ultimate imitation, the Live Trout has few peers. Using 3D printing and design to achieve the perfect trout imitation, the Live Trout features a solid silicone body, 3D eyes, pectoral and anal fins for added realism and stability, internal wire construction, quick release stinger hook, and 5X hooks. It’s available in two sizes, 18cm and 25cm. www.daiwafishing.com.au

Please email contributions to: nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au MAY 2019

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WHAT’S NEW FISHING SAMAKI RIBCAGE

ZMAN TRD 13 SPINZ

Samaki has designed you the ultimate weapon when it comes to jigging up a storm. The new Samaki Ribcage flutters, darts and spirals, with an action that is enhanced by the ribcage design on the rear side.The deconstructed ribs aid in the portrayal of an injured baitfish, erupting with bubbles as it drops.

With eight fish-catching colours and seven different weights ranging from 20g to 200g, the Ribcage offers the highest UV properties, enticing the most elusive fish to attack.

This centre balanced jig comes pre-rigged with premium assist hooks and Japanese Kevlar. It’s ideal for targeting kingfish, amberjack, samsonfish, tuna, coral trout and all other reef species.

For more information and stockists visit the Samaki website, or to see the latest releases and catch photos you can like them on Facebook and Instagram.

Price: from SRP $7.95 www.samaki.com.au

BONE BLACK RIVER XH RODS

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Over 50 years old and still going strong, the Spinfisher VI is built to take on any fish, anywhere!

The new PENN Spinfisher VI features IPX5 sealing, so whether it gets hit with a wave, or you let it ride in the spray all the way home, you don’t have to worry about saltwater getting into the gearbox or drag system.

The HT-100 drag washers are housed in a fully sealed spool to give the stopping power needed for big saltwater fish.

A full metal body and sideplate keep the CNC Gear System in precise alignment under heavy loads. Durability, smoothness, and Precision is what CNCGear technology delivers. By using state-of-the-art software and CNC machinery brass drive, pinion and oscillation gears are cut to exact tolerances.

The new PENN Spinfisher VI reels are available in standard, Live Liner and Long Cast models.

Price: RRP from $199.99 www.pennfishing.com.au 44

MAY 2019

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Combining cutting-edge blank design with great value, the TD Hyper and TD Sol series from Daiwa set a standard in performance.

The new TD Sol and TD Hyper feature HVF Nanoplus blanks for heightened sensitivity and lightness, while Daiwa’s X45 blank technology eliminates blank twist and distortion to increase rod strength, function, and sensitivity.

The combination of Fuji guide technology with Daiwa’s RR (reduced resistance) guide design system sees the TD Sol and TD Hyper series leading the way in their class when it comes to casting efficiency and performance.

The 762ULFS joins the Sol family, and is tailor-made for the finesse angler looking to make longcast presentations, while the Hyper family welcomes three new models with the 661LFS, 742ULFS, and 763LXS, adding great diversity and finesse options to the range.

To see the complete TD Sol and TD Hyper range, with a full list of specs, visit the Daiwa website. www.daiwafishing.com.au

BLACK MAGIC BMAX 50

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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Add flash and vibration to your soft plastic presentation in seconds with ZMan TRD SpinZ! TRD SpinZ feature a stainless steel centring wire that makes it quick and easy to insert them into your ZMan ElaZtech plastic, or other soft bait. Once inserted they are secured in place by a moulded plastic, dual prong keeper, that locks into the ElaZtech material.

Available in silver and gold colours in both Colorado and willow blades, TRD SpinZ have a multitude of applications, from pimping surface frogs, to switching on snapper when fishing jerk shads, or adding flash and vibration to the belly of your paddle tail swimbaits.

ZMan TRD SpinZ are available in silver or gold colour, in both willow and Colorado blades, with three per pack.

Price: SRP $15.95 www.z-man.com.au

DAIWA TD 14 SOL/HYPER RODS

Bone Rods has released two 7’ extra heavy rods in the Black River range.

The two rods comprise of a spin and baitcast rod with the same specs to give anglers the choice of using their preferred fishing style.

Each rod combines the power and the finesse needed to tangle with complex situations and dynamic, fast-paced fishing. The length ensure ease of use in tight areas where casting accuracy is a must. Couple this with a soft tip that allows anglers to downsize their lures to match-the-hatch for finicky fish and the new Black River rods look like very impressive sticks.

From deep cranking in rock pools to throwing swimbaits into timber and weed, the new Black River rods excel at reaching out and touching the beasts hiding in their element.

The two models are the 368BRC701XH (7’, Medium Fast Extra Heavy Baitcast, 15-30lb, 8-50g) and the 368BRS701XH (7’ Medium Fast Extra Heavy Spin, 15-30lb, 8-50g). www.wilsonfishing.com

PENN SPINFISHER VI REELS

PRODUCT GUIDE

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The new Black Magic BMax 50s are an expansion to the popular BMax range, with subtle but important differences.

These bibbed lures sink slowly and typically dive down to around 1m when being retrieved.

They are 50mm in length and weigh 4.0g – an ideal size and weight for casting and spinning into Australian rivers and estuaries, but they’re also great for being slowly trolled.

MBax lures come rigged with strong, sharp treble hooks – one on the belly and one on the tail, and are available in a range of eight attractive colours.

The BMax range of lures sit at a great price point, and are available at your local Black Magic stockist. To find out more, visit the Black Magic Tackle website. You can also find more information, news and catch photos on their Facebook page (www.facebook. com/blackmagictackle) or check them out on Instagram (@blackmagictackle) or YouTube. www.blackmagictackle.com

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recfishwest Western Australia’s $2.4 billion lifestyle WA’s hundreds of thousands of fishers choose to spend $2.4 billion every year on fishing. Of that, $1.8 billion is spent on fishing trips alone. Healthy abundant fish stocks are the key to providing great fishing experiences.

Recfishwest, the West Australian Premier the Hon. Mark McGowan and the Minister for Fisheries the Hon. Dave Kelly, recently launched a report on the ‘Economic Dimensions of Recreational Fishing in Western Australia’, at an event in Fremantle.

In a WA first, the economic study detailed the annual economic spend by recreational fishers on fishing related activities such as fishing trips and travel, fishing gear and boat fishing costs. The results, a staggering $2.4 billion is spent by fishers each year!

Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said the figure is huge but not one of surprise.

“We know almost

Recfishwest, the West Australian Premier the Hon. Mark McGowan and the Minister for Fisheries the Hon. Dave Kelly, recently launched a report on the ‘Economic Dimensions of Recreational Fishing in Western Australia’, at an event in Fremantle.

750,000 We s t e r n Australians choose to go fishing as part of their lifestyle, that’s at least one person in every third house

who goes fishing each year,” Dr Rowland said.

“The $2.4 billion yearly injection into the state’s economy demonstrates

FACT FILE Economic Dimensions of Recreational Fishing in Western Australia was conducted

by Economic Research Associates and supported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and Recfishwest. The project was funded through recreational fishing licence fees through the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund.

The total expenditure figure in the research is not the total ‘value’ of the recreational fishing industry, simply what West Aussies spend each year on their fishing activities.

45% of fishers state-wide only fish from the shore, 24% from a boat only, and 31% from both boat and shore.

An average boat-based fisher spends $13,559/year (this does not include boat purchase) and average shore based fishers spends $2,253/year.

FISHING NEWS

that recreational fishing in WA matters.”

“It’s important to note this is a voluntary spend from our community, it’s not a tax, people aren’t forced to spend their hard earned dollars to go fishing, they choose to. $2.4 billion is the new baseline for recreational fishing value, as long as fishing experiences are protected and enhanced this figure will continue to grow.

“We have known for a long time that fishing provides a huge number of health and wellbeing benefits for our community, and now we

know the huge economic benefits it also provides our economy.

“The best way to maintain and grow these benefits is to ensure people

have a great time whenever they go fishing in our great state.

“To achieve this, we need more than simply sustainable fish populations, we need healthy oceans and waterways managed for abundant and plentiful fish stocks.” Dr Rowland said.

“Imagine if you had the chance to catch the fish of a lifetime, every time you went fishing – wouldn’t you go fishing more often?”

West Australians love to travel throughout WA for fishing, spending $1.8 billion on fishing trips each year, $160 million on fishing gear such as pots, rods and reels and $390 million on purchasing and maintaining new and used fishing boats.

“We are very pleased to see the Premier today supporting our desire to see fishing incorporated into the state’s tourism agenda, we’d much rather see people spending time fishing in our regions than heading overseas.”

You can catch the stats at www.recfishwest.org.au.

REGIONAL FISHING SPEND What residents of each WA region spend on fishing per year Gascoyne............................................. $28 million Goldfields............................................. $147 million Great Southern..................................... $46 million Kimberley............................................. $184 million Metro.................................................... $1.1 billion Mid-West.............................................. $76 million Peel....................................................... $217 million Pilbara.................................................. $190 million South West........................................... $306 million Wheat Belt............................................ $43 million

Bluewater Marine named WA Stacer dealer of the year Stacer Boats Australia has crowned its 2018/19 National and State Dealer of the Year awards.

Thorough analysis of the vast dealer network was done in order to identify the top performers. With over 50 dealerships across Australia, the competition is stiff. Congratulations to all the winners!

Cameron Wood and Dominic Smith, Stacer’s National Account Managers, had the tough task to choose each award winner. Even with their strict criteria, the decision to choose the best dealerships in Australia is a difficult responsibility.

The award criteria includes customer satisfaction ratings, dealership growth, presentation and cleanliness of their premises, team 46

MAY 2019

dynamics, marketing and lastly a thorough physical representation of the Stacer range.

Two hours south of Perth you will find one of the most immaculate dealerships in all of Australia, Bluewater Marine. Lead by the Lotti family, the team at Bluewater Marine is located in Bunbury and can always be found taking customers down to the water.

Bluewater Marine’s outstanding customer service is worth the drive from WA’s primary city centre to Bunbury.

Very conscious of what their customer wants Bluewater Marine takes a thoughtful approach how customers are treated in their store.

“They are just genuinely nice people,” Wood said.

“The team at Bluewater sells without any pressure

on the customer and is more focused on finding the right boat for the right person.”

Jess Lotti, Sales Manager and Family Member at Bluewater Marine said, “It is always good to see people are willing to drive the extra distance for our customer service.”

To be selected as a Stacer dealer is no easy feat and to be the best amongst peers is a fantastic accomplishment.

The dealerships awarded in 2018/19 realise that customer service is king, teamwork is vital and it always helps to go the extra mile.

Now that these awards have been granted each of the Stacer Dealers can reflect on their achievements and refocus to the year ahead in order recreate similar success.

– Telwater

Degroot in spectacular form for WATA Pro/Am The 2019 WA Tournament Anglers (WATA) Pro/Am took place deep in the South West of WA in Albany for what would turn out to be an entertaining weekend of fishing and socialising.

The Pro/Am is an event in which the non-boaters are paired with a different boater on each of the two days of the competition and from there the pair have to work together as a team to compile their best bag of five bream. Both the boater

used this time wisely, and as a result Peter managed to weigh-in the biggest bag for each day of the Pro/Am to win by a significant margin.

It’s hard to watch such an impressive performance without looking at the equipment Peter used. Peter used a 7’2” 2-6lb rated G Loomis GL2 rod that was matched with a 2500 Shimano Ci4 Stradic. Peter spooled this reel with 12lb Sunline Castaway braid and connecting to his braid he ran

effort during both days of the competition.

For most of the event, Graeme used 50mm Cranka Crabs in order to catch some excellent quality bream that made for some very handy upgrades for each team he was a part of. By casting the 50mm Cranka Crab against the banks of the Kalgan River, Graeme would closely watch for any disturbances or vibrations in his line while the lure was sinking to the bottom.

Once Graeme detected a bite

Amateur champion Graeme Kovacevich and second place pro Paul Burton, display their fish that contributed to a strong come back for Paul and an amateur victory for Graeme.

Spooled onto this reel was 6lb Suffix straight through fluorocarbon.

Graeme took home $200 in cash, a prize pack of sponsor products a couple of $100 vouchers to Trailblazers and Albany Rods & Tackle. At the event presentation Graeme thanked the organisers and the

Pro champion Peter Degroot (right) and second place amateur Adam Smith (left) hold aloft the cracking bream they caught on the second day to seal the victory for Pete. They needed another hand to hold up their fifth fish, which was just as big as these. and non-boater share their day one bag weight, and they then try and add to it with whoever they’re paired up with on the following day. The field consisted of eleven boaters and eleven non-boaters, which meant everyone had a partner for each day. This created a brilliant social environment and an even playing field for the anglers for them to do battle in Albany’s Oyster Harbour region.

Speaking of battle, Peter Degroot put in a herculean performance over the course of the weekend to weigh-in a full bag of five fish each day to record a final weight of 7.8kg in order to take out the event for the Pro division!

This was such a dominant performance that the nearest competitor could only get within 1.52kg of Peter!

Peter has been in hot form this year and once again it was his skill in working vibes to such a damaging effect that sealed the deal for him. Choosing to fish the Kalgan River on both days, Peter worked his vibes by hopping them across the bottom with a few pauses thrown in between. This technique worked a treat and on both days of the event, Peter bagged out quickly, which gave him plenty of time to find upgrades. He

6lb Yamatoyo fluorocarbon leader material.

Also worth mentioning is that Peter took home $400 in cash and a prize pack which comprised of many fantastic products from our sponsors.

This included a $100 voucher to both of Albany’s leading tackle stores, Trailblazers and Albany Rods & Tackle.

During the presentation, Peter thanked the organisers and also the event sponsors for their support in making this event happen.

Rounding out the top three of the Pro division was Paul Burton who finished in second weighing in a full bag each day to record a final weight of 6.280kg, and third place went to Alex Greisdorf, who weighed in a full bag each day to record a final weight of 5.310kg.

NO AMATEUR HOUR FOR AMATEURS DIVISION Leading the race from start to finish in the Amatuer divison was Graeme Kovacevich, who won by nearly a kilo to the nearest competitor by weighing in a full bag each day to record a final weight of 7.74kg.

Graeme was part of the 2018 WA Bream Classics Boat Series team of the year and he showed the rest of the field why he earned that accolade, with such a solid

he slowly took up the slack in his line and loaded into each fish in order to achieve a decent hook up. This was vital, given the size of the fish he was catching, as you don’t want to be losing fish of the quality he was consistently catching both days.

Graeme’s skilful use of his 50 mm Cranka Crabs was achieved by using a 7’ 2-7lb Nordic Stage Areal Pro rod, which was equipped with a Daiwa 2506 Emeraldas reel.

sponsors for getting behind the event.

Rounding out the remaining anglers on the Amateur division podium was Adam Smith who weighed in a full bag each day to record a very impressive final weight of 6.480kg, and third place went to Rhys Black who also weighed in a full bag each

Albany local Callum Dowell always knows where to find the bream on his local waterway.

day to record a final weight of 4.490kg.

Big bag weights means big fish, and this meant it was going to take a solid bream to win the big bream prize for each day of the event. Winning the big bream prize of $100 cash on the first day was Alex Greisdorf, who weighed in a 1.03kg bream. On the second day, Paul Burton brought back an absolute beast of a bream, which measured 45cm and weighed 1.37kg to take home the $100 big bream prize.

So that wraps up the 2019 WATA Pro/Am event in Albany. Every team caught fish on both days, new friends were made and people shared their knowledge with one another, which made up for a brilliant weekend away for everyone. WATA would like to thank the Albany Boating and Fishing club, Trailblazers, Albany Rods & Tackle and the rest of their sponsors. – WATA

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR MAY

2019

4-5 May

ABT BREAM Rnd 5 Blackwood

www.abt.org.au

19 May

WA Bream Classic Kayak Series Rnd 2 – Swan River

watournamentanglers.com.au

JUNE

Jun 9

WA Bream Classic Boat Series Rnd 2 – Murray River

watournamentanglers.com.au

OCTOBER

Oct 6

WA Bream Classic Kayak Series Rnd 3 – Moore River

watournamentanglers.com.au

Oct 20

WA Bream Classic Boat Series Rnd 3 – Blackwood River

watournamentanglers.com.au

Nov 9-10

WA Bream Classic Kayak Series GF – Swan River

watournamentanglers.com.au

NOVEMBER

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

MAY 2019

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McKeown breaks weight record at BREAM Open Jamie McKeown is a local Gold Coast angler who most fishers fear on his home waterway, but living nearly 1000km away from Sydney, he went into the Daiwa BREAM Australian Open a bit of an underdog, with so many Sydney locals fishing this comp.

Jamie went into this comp just wanting to catch his five fish limit every day. The Daiwa BREAM Australian Open is a marathon of a competition, requiring anglers to compete for three days with sevenhour sessions. The comp was held at two venues, Sydney Harbour for day one and three, and the Hawkesbury River day two. With this in mind, McKeown went and fished what he knows best: Cranka Crabs.

Day one at Sydney Harbour saw McKeown fishing two areas called the Wedding Cakes, and Sow and Pigs. He made a quick pass of the Wedding Cakes and got nothing. So he strapped everything down and headed to Sow and Pigs.

It wasn’t long before he knew he had made the right move, catching his limit fairly quickly, but was wise

Those who finished on the podium, Jamie McKeown, Ross Cannizzaro and Mark Crompton, fought a fierce battle in Sydney’s premier bream fisheries. enough not to fish it too hard, tactically moving along 50m or so every 5-10 minutes and not fishing. On day one he weighed a great bag of five bream for a weight of 4.43kg, which had him in second place for the start of day two.

Day two on the Hawkesbury River saw a completely different set of circumtances. Going into day two, McKeown had some time to kill, as he was waiting for the top of the tide for his key areas to fire. He had a look around Cowan and America Bay, catching three small fish on bent minnow style lures. By

then, the tide had filled and he headed upriver between Bar Point and Spencer. He wanted to concentrate on throwing Cranka Crabs on rock walls in anywhere from 3-6m deep with the falling tide run. Once again, he made the right move at the right time, catching two nice fish back-to-back, before upgrading the three rats he had caught earlier. Although his bag wasn’t as big as day one’s, his five fish for 4.08kg was enough to keep him in second place going into day three.

It was back to Sydney Harbour for day three, and Jamie went into it knowing he

had a shot at winning, being only 800g from the leader and last year’s winner Mark Crompton. He headed to Sow and Pigs that had been so kind to him on day one, hoping that it had replenished from

his first day there. It had, and he bagged out around 8:30am, but not long after that a seal showed up and shut everything down. McKeown went and had a look at the Wedding Cakes and Spit Bridge once again for nothing, so headed back to his honey hole and luckily the seal had left. He sat there for the rest of the day upgrading nearly his whole bag, except for a 36 forker he caught there earlier in the day. Once again, all fish were caught on 65mm Cranka Crab Custom Heavys in olive and spotted. He headed in a little early, as his electric motor had run out, which left him wondering whether he had enough weight with his bag of five bream.

It was a nail bitting weigh-in, with lots of good bags coming in, but he knew it would come down to the final three to weigh-in, Mark Crompton, himself and Ross Cannizzaro.

Cannizzaro was in the hot seat, taking the lead with a

Scan the QR code to see the Australian Open day one highlights.

4.98kg bag. Jamie needed 4.90kg to take the lead, and when the button was pushed Jamie’s bag dragged the scale down to 4.98kg! He had caught the same weight as Cannizzaro and taken the lead by 80g. Day two leader and champ for 2018 Mark Crompton ended up weighing a limit, but only had a 2.95kg sack, which gave Jamie McKeown the win for the 2019 Daiwa BREAM Australian Open!

BOATER’S WINNING GEAR

Scan the QR code to see Aus Open winner Jamie McKeown interview.

Rod Reel Line Lure

Samaki Archer 691 Ecooda Black Hawk Sufix 10lb Coastal Braid and 8lb Sufix leader Cranka Crab 65mm custom Cranka Crab Custom Heavy in olive and spotted

Visit www.abt.org.au for entry forms. For general enquiries phone ABT on (07) 3387 0888 48

MAY 2019

The picture that paints a thousand words: maybe next year, Ross.

Cannizzaro bridesmaid once again Ross Cannizzaro is a Sydney local and always a favourite in the Harbour and Hawkesbury River, and some say the bream in these systems are his pets.

They just don’t seem to do what he wants come Bream Open time! This is one comp Cannizzaro has never won, and unfortunately this year wasn’t his year either, coming second to Jamie McKeown by only 80g.

For day one on the Harbour, Cannizzaro started his day fishing from Goat Island to Manly, skip casting a 2.5” Gulp Crabby in camo colour under boat hulls.

Cannizzaro says by skipping the lure deep under hulls and getting his bait in the shade, the fish would eat it

on the drop. If he didn’t get a hit on the first two casts, he would go on to the next boat and repeat the process.

This technique filled his bag, but he knew they weren’t big enough to win. So he went to the edges, fishing vertical structure such as rock walls, poles and jetties. Here Cannizzaro fished something new to him, a Cranka Crab, and as Cranka Crabs tend to do, they got him the bigger bites that he needed to upgrade a few times and saw him bringing a 3.54kg bag to the scales.

Day two on the Hawkesbury had Cannizzaro heading upriver past Spencer to fish the rock walls and edges using a Berkley Gulp Pulse Craw Ross Cannizzaro landed some impressive fish to earn him second place.

Jamie McKeown came from below to claim victory in the Daiwa BREAM Australian Open.

on a 1/8oz jighead and Berkley Bigeye Blades.

Cannizzaro was casting his Bigeye Blade tight to the edge and hopping it down to around 15ft. The fish would either take the blade on the drop after a little hop, or while it was just sitting on the bottom doing nothing, where he would go for the next hop and there would be weight on the line. The Pulse Craw he fished was much the same way, but it got most bites while dead sticked on the bottom, with the 1/8oz jighead keeping it on the bottom, even in a strong current. Day two saw him with five fish for a total 4.87kg.

The finish line showed an impressive cross section of boats and anglers.

On returning to Sydney Harbour, Cannizzaro knew he needed big fish on this final day to win, so he did his milk run, quickly filling his bag like he had on day one with a lure that has been so good to him over the years, the Berkley Gulp Crabby. He felt he was going to need something else to take the win this year, so he went to the dark side and tied on a Cranka Crab, and yes, that crab worked its magic. Cannizzaro pitched it into poles, jetties and rock walls, quickly upgrading his whole bag. Cannizzaro ended up weighing 4.98kg, earning him second place by only 80g.

Scan the QR code to see Aus Open runner up Ross Cannizzaro interview.

Last year’s winner Mark Crompton scored himself a third in this year’s Open.

The top five anglers show off their respective share of the winnings.

BREAM AUSTRALIAN OPEN RESULTS

Scan the QR code to see the Australian Open day two highlights.

Place Name 1 Jamie McKeown 2 Ross Cannizzaro 3 Mark Crompton 4 Liam Carruthers 5 Daniel Bonaccorso 6 Michael Colotouros 7 Mark Healey 8 Kristoffer Hickson 9 Tom Slater 10 Steve Morgan

Total Fish Total Weight (kg) Prize 15/15 13.47 $5000 15/15 13.39 $3500 15/15 12.34 $2500 15/15 12.03 $2000 15/15 11.93 $1000 15/15 11.39 Daiwa Prize Pack 15/15 11.24 Daiwa Prize Pack 15/15 11.02 Daiwa Prize Pack 15/15 10.86 Daiwa Prize Pack 15/15 10.39 Daiwa Prize Pack

Scan the QR code to see the Australian Open day three highlights.

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49

Langley takes maiden boater win with $5 fuel bill Paul Langley has been fishing ABT BREAM tournaments for quite a few years now, competing in the non-boater ranks.

He was the quiet achiever, never one to be seen at the tubs boasting about his catch or worrying about what anyone else had caught. Langley just fished each comp as it came and enjoyed tournament BREAM fishing for its own sake. But recently, after buying a bass boat, he has stepped it up to join the boaters.

While his first boating comp at South West Rocks turned out to be a dreaded double doughnut, coming into his second event as a boater in the ABT Costa BREAM series, he was pretty calm, considering his last outing. He had fished Botany Bay only a few weeks before, and having found the fish on the edges, that’s what he based his pre-fish on. Through the pre-fish day he wasn’t happy with the size or number of fish he was catching, but looking on Google Maps he found a deep reef that looked pretty good and ended up producing a nice fish from it.

BOATER’S WINNING GEAR Rod Reel Line Lure

Pflueger Trion 1-3 kg UL Shimano 2500 9lb Yamatoyo braid and 6lb leader Cranka Crab Heavy in olive

the bottom. Fishing was a little slow, with him only picking up two fish early.

He was worried if his little 100m stretch of reef would handle two days fishing, but he stuck it out, knowing that if they bit like the day

before, it would be worth it.

It wasn’t until around 11am that things picked up and Langley was able to fill his limit of five fish, giving him a 3.40kg bag and a total of 7kg to take the win at the Botany Bay round!

Paul Langley with his winner’s haul from the ABT BREAM Botany Bay round.

Going into day one of the ABT Daiwa Botany round, Langley made the choice to go back to his reef. Only 400m away from the start line, it didn’t take him long to get a line in the water.

Fishing this reef in around 4-5m, his lure of choice was the old faithful Cranka Crab

Heavy in olive. Langley was drifting backwards and forwards on one patch of reef all day. Casting his crab out, sinking it to the bottom and dragging it slowly along the reef saw him picking fish up consistently, and even upgrading a few times. He filled his limit of bream on

day one with a bag weighing 3.60kg. Day one’s efforts had him sitting in first place for day two.

On day two, Langley made the same 400m run from the start line.

Langley started on his deep crab pattern in 5m of water, dragging it along

Paul showing off some of the fish that helped him win.

BOATER RESULTS

Scan the QR code to see Boater winner, Paul Langley interview.

Place Name 1 Paul Langley 2 Grant Kime 3 Peter Cook 4 Todd Riches 5 Mark Crompton 6 Daniel Bonaccorso 7 Richard Potter 8 Ross Cannizzaro 9 Christian Wardini 10 Jamie McKeown

Visit www.abt.org.au for entry forms. For general enquiries phone ABT on (07) 3387 0888 50

MAY 2019

Total Fish Total Weight (kg) Prize 10/10 7.00 $3000 + $500 Mercury Bonus 10/10 6.43 $1750 + $300 Mercury Bonus 10/10 6.04 $1200 8/10 5.80 $900 10/10 5.77 $800 10/10 5.65 $700 10/10 5.59 $600 10/10 5.50 $500 10/10 5.41 9/10 5.38 $200 Mercury Bonus

Scan the QR code to see Botany Bay day one highlights.

BREAM Series presented by

Kimey slides into second Grant Kime, the 2016 ABT Costa BREAM Grand Final winner, is

no stranger to the bream tournaments. Coming from the St Georges Basin area,

NON-BOATER FIRST PLACE GEAR Rod Reel Line Lures

Daiwa Silver Wolf Daiwa Silver Wolf 2004 Daiwa Evo 8 and Sunline 8lb leader Jackall Chubby, ZMan GrubZ and Slim SwimZ in motor oil rigged on 1/12oz TTs HeadlockZ

Scan the QR code to see Botany Bay day two highlights.

he doesn’t mind a bit of flats fishing or blading in the deep, so the 2019 ABT Daiwa Botany round played nearly into his hands.

On day one Kime fished an area called the Towra flats early, with this area being fairly shallow. The area only produced three bites, but one of those bites ended up being a nice fish over the 1kg mark, which he unfortunately dropped boatside. He says he hung around too long hoping to

get more bites like that, a decision that cost him.

After spending another half an hour for nothing, he moved on. Kime hit another area that he caught some fish in on the practise day, and found this is where he should have been all along, filling his bag in less than an hour. Kime was using an Ecogear VX40 blade in 439 pattern in 20ft of water, fishing it with short hops along the bottom. He said that 439 was exactly the same colour as some cockle shells a bream had spewed on the deck. His day one bag tipping the scales at 2.73kg.

Day two saw Grant head straight back to his spot, not wasting time anywhere else. This area was wide of the Towra flats in 20ft of water. He got into them straight away, catching almost a fish a cast for half an hour. He ended up filling an impressive bag quite quickly, but had a lightbulb

BREAM SERIES

Second place boater Grant Kime fished hard, but unfortunately fell just short of a win. moment and noticed a tug in the distance stirring the bottom up. His first cast into the area saw him hooked up, and the next hour was spent upgrading his whole bag.

Bringing the biggest bag to the scales for the whole comp at 3.70kg, it may have been that kilo fish he lost at the boat that cost him first place!

Scan the QR code to see Non-Boater winner, Stuart Walker interview.

Walker wins again Stuart Walker is one Kiwi we’ll happily take as our own, winning multiple events and taking out Angler of the Year four years in a row, and it’s no surprise to see him take a win in the ABT Costa BREAM series once again.

Walker definitely had a slow day fishing on day one with Russell Babekull, who fished oyster racks all day. He only caught two fish for the session, but one of them was a cracking bream

weighing 1.2kg, which ate a Jackall Chubby, and the other, smaller fish took a ZMan Slim SwimZ in motor oil. His day one bag only weighed 1.72kg, but if anyone can come back from a day like that, it is Stuart Walker. Going into day two, fishing with day one boating leader Paul Langley, Walker definitely made the most of it.

On day two Walker made that 400m with Paul Langley, fishing Langley’s little 5m deep reef. Walker landed

two fish pretty quickly and thought to himself that it was going to be a good day, however it went quiet soon after. With the watch tightening, he was a little worried. Come 11am, the fish were on again. He filled his limit by 12pm.

Fishing a mix of ZMan Slim SwimZ and GrubZ, he ended up with a limit of five fish weighing 3.39kg, with a total weight of 5.11kg. Stuart Walker had won it again!

Paul Langley came out on top in his second competition as a boater, having not weighed a single fish in his first comp last year.

Rocket takes Big Bream Rodney O’Sullivan ended up winning the Daiwa J Braid Big Bream prize, taking home $500 plus a Daiwa

J Braid prize pack. Rodney said it wasn’t rocket science to catch this 1.4kg bruiser.

He just calmly waited for his

boater Chris Seeto to finish crankbaiting a boat hull, and then cast his Cranka Crab Heavy in olive into the back of the boat. The giant fish ate the crab on the drop!

Stuart Walker claims another non-boater win in the BREAM series.

NON-BOATER RESULTS

Rodney O’Sullivan’s 1.4kg bruiser Botany bream.

Place Name 1 Stuart Walker 2 Peter Breukel 3 Rodney O’Sullivan 4 Adam Costa 5 William Lee 6 Louie Wardini 7 Neil Kelly 8 Tani Konsul 9 Josh Carpenter 10 Dallas Blatchford

Total Fish Total Weight (kg) Prize 7/10 5.11 Daiwa Prize Pack + $200 Hobie Bonus 8/10 4.00 Fish-Tec Prize Pack + $100 Hobie Bonus 6/10 3.78 Cranka Lures Prize Pack + $500 (Big Bream) 7/10 3.68 TTs Prize Pack + $75 Hobie Bonus 6/10 3.64 Sufix Prize Pack 6/10 3.64 Ecogear Prize Pack 4/10 3.32 Shimano Prize Pack 7/10 3.11 Lucky Craft Prize Pack 6/10 2.80 Keitech Prize Pack 5/10 2.62 Sunline Prize Pack MAY 2019

51

Team DG go all out first round at Swan River An impressive 28 teams gathered on the Bayswater foreshore for the start of the 2019 Getaway Outdoors and Hobie Polarized WA Bream Classics Boat Series held on the Swan River. The Swan River has been fishing fantastically for the past few years and the results from the teams pre-fish outings had them very excited for this event and plenty were predicting big bags to come back to the scales.

Tournament fishing can be a very funny game and sometimes, and the weather conditions on the day of the event can throw a spanner in the works, and this round was no exception. The weather dished up calm, almost non-existent winds for most of the day, a slight overcast sky, but enough to let the glare of the sun shine through and make the bream very cautious. The big fish throughout the upper and lower reaches of the river mostly sought refuge and let the smaller bream have their fun in the sun. The results mostly reflected this behaviour.

Jayden Webb and Adam Smart from Team DG,

If you wanted to know what a winner’s grin looks like then you do now, as Jayden Webb and Adam Smart hold their winning fish up to the camera.

Prawns, they went to town on the local bream population in this area and bagged out in no time at all. Their morning was so good that they had caught most of their bag that they would eventually bring to the

between. It was this lure that did the most damage for the pair during the latter stages of the morning.

All in all, Team DG used this mixture of lures to great effect and were able to

used a 6’6” 2-4 kg Shimano Zodias rod that was equipped with a Shimano Stella 1000 sized reel. His Stella 1000 was also loaded up with 12lb Shimano Mission Complete EX 8 braid and he also ran 4lb Shimano Ocea fluorocarbon leader material.

At the presentation Jayden and Adam both thanked the series sponsors and the organisers for making this event happen.

DEGROOT AND SEEAR GET GOOD VIBES As the name suggests, Team Good Vibes certainly had the right vibe pumping through their veins, as Peter

the banks in order to catch their full limit of bream.

If their team name didn’t already ring a bell with how their day went, then you can probably guess what they used to catch their bream.

Yep, that’s right, vibes! It was vibes for every part of their day, and their approach was a hit from the word go, with their bag coming in their first six casts of the morning! The two carried on with this momentum and they didn’t take their foot off the pedal and they proceeded to catch fish for the majority of the day. They also caught themselves $400 cash and a prize pack full of series sponsor products to cap off an excellent day for the pair.

Both Peter and Ollie have been around the WA Bream Classic tournament scene for a while now, and their experience in this game taught them the perfect rod and reel outfits to use for the job. Peter’s choice of weaponry was a 7’2” 2-6lb G-Loomis GL2 rod matched with a Shimano Stradic Ci4 2500 sized reel. This reel was loaded with 12lb Sunline Castaway braid and connected to his braid he ran a mix of 5 and 6lb Yamatoyo fluorocarbon leader. Ollie used a 6’8”, 2-4kg Daiwa Heartland rod also equipped with a Shimano Stradic Ci4 2500 sized reel. In mirrored contrast to Pete, Ollie’s 2500 Stradic Ci4 was loaded with 12lb Sunline Castaway and connected to his braid he also ran a mix of 5 and 6lb Yamatoyo fluorocarbon leader material.

big bream for the event, which weighed 1.2kg.

This fish was caught on a Gulp Crabby and wasn’t going to come in without a fight. Upon swallowing the Gulp Crabby, this bream tore along the riverbank and behind a jetty, which forced Jayden to steer his boat using his electric motor into a position so that he could slowly work the bream back to the boat.

After some very tense moments, the fish was netted and some spirited celebrations followed. The $500 in cash for catching the events big bream sure gave Jayden something else to cheer about as well!

ADDITIONAL PRIZES On a smaller scale of having something to cheer about, Josh Phillips earned himself $50 cash for guessing the closest weight to the winning bag weight of the event. The winning bag weight was 2.95kg and Josh guessed 2.95lg, a perfect guess!

So that wraps up the first event of the 2019 Getaway Outdoors & Hobie Polarized WA Bream Classics Boat Series. It was great to see a bunch of new teams take part and we hope to see them, along with the rest of the teams back for the next event in the boat series, which takes place in Mandurah on 9 June.

These events cannot run without your support, so WA Bream Classics thanks the competitors and the support from the

Peter Degroot and Ollie Seear from Team Good Vibes have joined forces again, and what a force they are, finishing in second place. however, weren’t going to let the big bream have the day off, as they went about their business in destructive fashion, catching up to 20 legals to weigh-in a cracking bag of 2.95kg.

It was a comprehensive victory, as they finished over 700g ahead of their nearest competitors, showing they truly owned the day.

Jayden and Adam fished upriver of the launch point and headed to Bassendean to fish a variety of structures, such as jetties, snags, rocks and flats that are scattered throughout the region. Using camo coloured 2” Berkley Gulp Crabbies, Smith Camion Dredge hardbodies and 50mm Ecogearaqua 52

MAY 2019

scales by 8:30am.

All of this it wasn’t achieved without a careful technique imparted on each lure. Both Jayden and Adam would cast out their Gulp Crabbies and during the initial sink of the soft plastic is when they would wait to pounce on any fish that would take their plastic. If they didn’t receive a take from a bream on the drop, they would give the Gulp Crabby a short but sharp series of twitches, before letting it rest on the bottom.

This would entice any bream that had second thoughts towards eating their offerings.

As for the Smith Camion Dredges, Jayden and Adam retrieved these lures ever so slowly, with short pauses in

extract plenty of solid legals, including the big bream prize for the event. Such a dominant performance earned them a healthy wad of cash, which included $1200 for the victory and $500 for the big bream.

The pair couldn’t extract this amount of good fish amongst some gnarly structure without some decent arsenal on board. Jayden did most of his damage using a 6’6” 1-3 kg Berkley Venom rod that was equipped with a Shimano Stella 1000 sized reel. Jayden’s Stella 1000 was loaded with 12lb Shimano Mission Complete EX8 braid, on which he tied 4lb Shimano Ocea fluorocarbon leader.

Adam Smart on the other hand

Jayden Webb and Adam Smart have some cool trophies to take home and a cool $1200 cash. That’s how you make the most of your Sunday!

Degroot and Ollie Seear weighed in a solid bag of 2.25 kg to snap up second place and qualification to this year’s grand final.

Just like Team DG, Peter and Ollie headed to Bassendean to target the snags and rocks that line

Pete and Ollie thanked the organisers for the work they put into running an event like this and also the series sponsors for their support.

BIG BREAM GOT CRABBY As mentioned before, Jayden Webb caught the

series sponsors in Getaway Outdoors, Hobie, Compleat Angler, Gladiator, Okuma/ ZMan, Razor Edge, JML, Pure Fishing, Duffrods, Daiwa, Tackle HQ, Albany Rods & Tackle, Challenge Batteries and Lowrance. – WA Bream Classics

Cooking

Tuna tartare with avocado and lavosh crispbread SYDNEY

Andrew Humphries

If you want to try a refreshing new way to eat tuna, this recipe is for you. It blends the fresh flavours of lime, shallots and coriander into an irresistable combination.

To start with, zest and juice the lime, while keeping aside the zest for later. Finely chop the shallot and place it in the pot along with sugar and

lime juice, then cook for 2-3 minutes until shallot turns pink.

Place aside and let cool.

Finely chop the coriander and place aside with the lime zest.

Blitz the avocado in a food processor with a squeeze of lime juice and salt, then set aside to serve.

Dice tuna into 1cm pieces and place in a bowl. Toss and coat with the oil, and then add in ½ the lime zest and half the coriander. Mix through then add

1

Finely diced shallot, sugar and lime.

Remember to zest the lime before juicing

in ½ the cooled shallot mix.

Add the kecap manis and the siracha and stir through.

If you don’t like too much spice, add less sriracha. Season with a touch of salt; serve with the avocado puree and some crispbread or crackers on the side.

Adding fresh lime juice to the tuna will cook the tuna and change the texture and colour of the flesh, which is why the lime juice is cooked with shallot and sugar.

INGREDIENTS 200g sashimi grade tuna ½ bunch coriander 1 lime zested and juiced 1 tbsp castor sugar 1eshallot finely chopped 2 tbsp kecap manis 2 tbsp Sriracha chilli sauce.

2 tbsp grape seed oil or vegetable oil 1 avocado

2

The shallot, sugar and lime juice in the pan on the stove.

3

4

½ bunch coriander washed and ready to be chopped.

5

Lime zest, coriander and the shallot mix ready to be added to the tuna.

6

7

The 1cm tuna pieces ready to be added to the mix.

8

The tuna tartare with everything mixed in and ready to plate.

9

The ready to use shallot, lime and sugar mix.

Here you can see the tuna’s nice deep red colour. The fresher you can get, the better.

The tuna tartare with avocado and lavosh crispbread. The avocado balances the spice from the Sriracha and is a nice combination.

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Trades, Services, Charter BAIT & TACKLE METRO

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This section in WA 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.

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Boats & Guided Fishing Tours Directory KALBARRI Murchison River Caravan Park Kalbarri (08) 9937 1005 Kalbarri Anchorage Caravan Park Kalbarri (08) 9937 1181 Murchison House Station Kalbarri (08) 9937 1998 Kalbarri Beach Bungalows A & B Kalbarri (08) 9937 0400 Murchison caravan park Kalbarri (08) 9937 0400 Kalbarri Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri (08) 9937 2442

BOATS Aquasports Marine Midvale (08) 9250 3339

SHARK BAY Denham Seaside Caravan Park, (08) 9948 1242 Shark Bay Caravan Park (08) 9948 1387 Oceanside Village Denham Shark Bay (08) 9948 3003 Bay Lodge Denham Shark Bay WA (08) 9948 1278 RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort (08) 9948 1320

CARNARVON Wintersun Caravan and Tourist Park (08) 9941 8150 Capricorn Holiday Park (08) 9941 8153 Outback Oasis Caravan Park (08) 9941 1439 Carnarvon Caravan Park (08) 9941 8101 Norwesta Lifestyle Park (08) 9941 1277 Coral Coast Tourist Park (08) 9941 1438

CORAL BAY Peoples Park (08) 9942 5933 Bayview Coral Bay (08) 9385 6655 Ningaloo Club (08) 9948 5100 Ningaloo Reef Resort (08) 9942 5934

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MARINE ACCESSORIES Challenge Batteries Osborne Park (08) 9446 6122 JPW Marine Wholesale Distributors Perth (08) 6253 3000 Whitworths Marine & Leisure - Leerderville (08) 9381 1442 Crackpots Marine Supplies O’Connor (08) 9337 2211 Hydrowave – www.hydrowaveaustralia.com

Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park (08) 9949 1478 Yardie Homestead Caravan Park (08) 9949 1389 Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort (08) 9949 2377 Exmouth Escape Resort (08) 9949 4800 Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, Exmouth (08) 9949 0000

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ONSLOW Discovery Parks - Onslow (08) 9184 6007 Ocean View Caravan Park (08) 9184 6053

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DAMPIER Dampier Transit Caravan Park (08) 9183 1109 Discovery Parks - Pilbara, Karratha (08) 9185 1855 Karratha Caravan Park (08) 9185 1012 Discovery Parks - Balmoral, Karratha (08) 9185 3628 Aspen Karratha Village Baynton (08) 9185 2726 Karratha Apartments Karratha (08) 9143 9222 Searipple Village Karratha Bulgarra (08) 9158 7400 Karratha Village Karratha 1300 321 669

PORT HEDLAND Discovery Parks Port Hedland (08) 9173 1271 Port Tourist Park Port Hedland (08) 9172 4111 Blackrock Tourist Park South Hedland (08) 9172 3444 Landing Resort Port Hedland (08) 9172 4111

www.hydrowaveaustralia.com Offshore Marine Guildford (08) 6278 1299 Whitworths Marine & Leisure - Mosman Park (08) 9385 5877 Searano Marine Malaga (08) 9248 2242 All Boats and Caravans Kingsley (08) 9309 4200

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MARINE TRIMMERS The Trim Shop (08) 9430 5332 Mason Marine Trimmers O’Connor 0418 923 787 John’s Motor Trimmers Auto & Marine Upholstery Welshpool (08) 9470 5531 Waters Edge Marine Trimmers Leeming 0412 204 085 G.K. Trimmers Canning Vale (08) 9455 7144 Prestige Marine Trimmers Perth (08) 9303 9536 McCarroll Motor & Marine Trimmers Osborne Park (08) 9244 1449 Exclusive Marine Trimming & Upholstery O’Connor (08) 9314 6882 Universal Marine & Automotive Upholstery O’Connor 08) 9314 1770 John’s mobile trimmers Jandakot (08) 9417 4414 Cutting Edge Marine Trimming O’Connor 0432 062 834 Mandurah Motor Trimmers Greenfields (08) 9581 8180

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Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park (08) 9193 1055 West Kimberley Lodge & Caravan Park (08) 9191 1031

KUNUNURRA Town Caravan Park (08) 9168 1763 Wyndham Caravan Park (08) 9161 1064 Lake Argyle Caravan Park (08) 9168 7777 Discovery Parks - Lake Kununurra (08) 9168 1031 Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort (08) 9169 1995 Lake Argyle Resort (08) 9168 7777 Hidden Valley Caravan Park (08) 9168 1790 Kununurra Lakeside Resort (08) 9169 1092 El Questro Wilderness Park 1800 837 168 Kona Lakeside Caravan Park (08) 9161 1139

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Advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call 0417 901 301 or email nick@fishingmonthly.com.au MAY 2019

55

Catching flats bream – shake, rattle and roll BRISBANE

Justin Willmer Find me on Facebook at Yaks On

The cooler mornings are a signal to me that it’s time to get up on the flats and chase a few bream on plastics. In many systems the winter months see an influx of bait and big

It’s hard to beat the kayak for this type of fishing, with its ability to navigate the shallows, its lower profile creating less shadow and ‘presence’ on the water, and the overall stealth factor.

I often have bream hitting at the lure all the way to the kayak, even eating the plastic right at the rod tip in plain sight. These bream are

tide, however, my favourite flats to fish are those that are exposed at low tide, as I believe if there is no water at low it gives the fish motivation to go there when they are covered in water to feed.

When fishing the flats, I prefer to fish the last of the run-in and first of the run-out tide. Although, they can be

Another one of the author’s go-to lures is the ZMan 2.5” Slim SwimZ paddle-tail.

A net is handy, especially when the bigger bream are around. bream into the system, with many anglers chasing these schooling fish in the deeper water, where they congregate at the mouths of rivers and seaways to spawn.

This deep water bite can be productive, producing cricket score catches of

actively feeding on the flats, they’re aggressive, often in large numbers, competitive and when you hook them in a few feet of water, it’s game on!

What are the ‘flats’? They are the large, predominantly flat expanses that are found in many systems. The water

productive at any stage of the tide as long as there is at least a couple of feet of water for the fish to hunt in.

The magic depth for me has been anywhere from around 0.9-1.5m of water, and schools will often hold in depressions in the flats where the water is slightly deeper.

repeating. This will allow you to work the entire flat to find the most productive areas and if you do find fish, it’s worth repetitive drifts of this area or even anchoring to work the area more effectively.

Where possible I cast ahead of the drift or ahead and across the drift, fanning casts to cover as much area as possible. You can bring your lure back with the drift, if the drift is not too fast, ensuring that the lure is running at the desired depth.

If you are fishing in windy conditions then you are better off throwing a long cast with the wind and covering plenty of water, rather than getting frustrated with short casts, line management issues and so forth.

There are three go-to plastics that I fish when on the flats and I generally retrieve each of these plastics in a different way, to suit the area being fished and the mood of the fish. My larger kayak is set-up with a Railblaza TracPort Dash 500, fitted with four Railblaza

rod holders, allowing me to quickly and easily access four rods that are rigged and ready

in case I drift into deeper water and wish to specifically target a snapper or mulloway.

Having two different lures ready allows you to switch things up if they turn off one presentation. to go. This allows me to have these three go-to plastics at my disposal, along with a larger soft plastic presentation

When thinking about the way I fish these three plastics, I ended up with a different description for each and

An average flats bream on the 2.5” paddle-tail. bream. However, I love nothing more than chasing these bruisers on light gear, in a few feet of water, especially when they move up onto the flats in close proximity to deep water to harass bait and smash my small soft plastics.

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depth is similar throughout and they are often made up of a combination of sand, weed and rubble, with some systems also offering mussel beds, rocks, oysters and other structure. Some of these flats will have water over them at all stages of the

To ensure I am working the area effectively I will generally set-up a wind or tidal drift that carries me the length of the flat: starting on one edge, drifting the flat, heading back to the start of the drift and then across the flat a little further and

Shake – curl-tail; Rattle – TRD CrawZ; and Roll – paddle-tail. The author’s go-to selection when targeting bream on the flats.

that’s how I ended up with ‘shake, rattle and roll’, so here’s a breakdown of each.

SHAKE – 2.5” CURL-TAIL The 2.5” curl-tail is a proven performer on the bream and a bream tournament winning favourite presentation. You

fish will hit on the wind, other times on the pause, and this varied retrieve also produces a wide variety of other species.

RATTLE – 2.5” CRAW PATTERN The craw imitation is a great representation of creatures such as prawns

a shaking retrieve, however, it really excels when fished slow and rattled through structure.

ROLL – 2.5” PADDLE-TAIL My go-to paddle-tail has been a game changer, with its under hooked tail design and super soft material creating

GEARING UP In terms of jigheads I will fish these 2.5” plastics on a no.1 or 1/0 jighead and opt for a fine gauge, and chemically sharpened hook for maximum hook penetration. In terms of jighead weights, I most frequently fish a 1/4oz jighead, which many will believe is too heavy. The reason that I fish heavier and faster is based on a point that I made earlier, I’m fishing flats that are completely dry at low tide, so the fish are there for a reason when there is water and I believe that reason is to feed. Rather than fish slow and finesse, I aim

head, such as 1/6oz, 1/8oz, or even lighter. These are the basics that work for me on the flats, so it’s just a matter of giving them a crack in your area if you wish and customising them to suit your area and fish.

In terms of rods and reels, I fish a selection of 7’ 1-3kg and 2-4kg rods, with 20-30 size spinning reels, loaded with braid of around 6-8lb. Leader wise, I most commonly fish 8lb fluorocarbon, which is handy when you come across other species, such as tailor and flathead. Again, you may need to lighten your leader if the bite is tough.

that I love seeing on a flat and it’s amazing how many times to a cast this activity will be met with an instant angry strike and a bent rod.

Finally, if the flat feels lifeless and you’re not getting any bumps or follows, it may be worth moving on to another flat or at least a different section of the flat.

Even though we’re not into the prime time of the cooler months that bring the big bream onto the flats in my area, I still snuck out and found a few on my most recent session. A morning session, based around an hour of run-in tide and two hours of the run-out that produced

A good early season bream. These fish can only get better as the weather gets colder. can fish the curl-tail fast, slow, hopped, paused or even just let it drag on the bottom… fish just eat it.

I fish the curl-tail with a shaking retrieve, using two main retrieve techniques, both of which start with a long cast, a couple of seconds to let the plastic sink and then a few sharp hops to alert the fish to the presence of the lure.

and crabs that are frequently found among the weed and rubble on the flats. It has proven to be a winner when there are big bream foraging on the flats and when there is a mix of patchy weed and rocky, shelly rubble that attracts prawns and crabs. I would describe the retrieve technique as ‘rattle’ as the plastic is generally fished slower, on or near

a tail action that is difficult to achieve in such a small plastic. It has become a bream tournament winner and for me it is one of the easiest plastics to use effectively on the flats. Simply make a long cast, allow it to sink for a couple of seconds, give it a few shakes to wake the fish up and then slow roll (slow wind) it back. The tail action does all the work, just vary

This session started off with an awesome by-catch, a fringefin trevally. to cover as much water as possible and find those fish that are actively feeding.

I fish with the rod tip up at about a 45° angle and I fish fast enough that the plastic is above the bottom when fishing a slow roll. If I hit the weed, then I speed up, so you may be surprised how fast I am fishing when you give it a run. If you are fishing systems where the fish are less aggressive, such as southern black bream, then you may want to slow it down and in turn select a lighter

ADDITIONAL TIPS If I had to come up with a few more tips to maximise your chances of success I would firstly say, add some scent to your plastic. I add a small amount of gel scent every 30-50 casts, and also after catching a fish, with sardine/pilchard, mullet and inshore saltwater flavours a few favourites.

Secondly, I would say look and listen. Be aware of what is going on around you on the flat. Fish feeding actively and bait flicking are two things

over twenty bream, a grunter and a trevally. I would swap all the fish landed during this session for one of those big winter blue nose bruisers, however, it was a great warm up session and awesome fun on light gear.

The shake, rattle and roll all produced fish during this session, and it was the roll that was the standout for the morning, producing both the numbers and larger fish. Check out your local flats and get ready to shake, rattle and roll.

The 2.5” paddle-tails were bringing all the fish undone on a recent morning session in the yak.

For the first retrieve I will then just commence a slow wind (slow roll) while shaking the rod tip to add more life and erratic action to the curl-tail. Instead of just a slow wind, the second retrieve consists of about three slow winds of the reel, while shaking the plastic, followed by a pause, then repeating this wind and shake, pause, wind and shake, pause. At times

the bottom and rattled through the structure, bumping through and off rock and rattling through the patchy weed.

This plastic can also weed out the smaller fish as they pick at the claws, while the legal-size bream will generally eat the body and hook, or even inhale the whole plastic. This plastic can also be fished mid-water on these shallow flats with

the speed of the retrieve until you find what the fish want on the day.

When rolling the plastic, if a fish bites just keep it moving. You will often feel a tap, tap, tap and then the fish will find the hook and it’s game on! If you attempt to set the hook you will just pull the lure away from the fish in an unnatural manner and they will generally not return to bite again.

The flats produce plenty of by-catch, and a grunter nailed the plastic on this occasion.

MAY 2019

57

WHAT’S NEW BOATING BOAT RAMP FINDER AUS

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The Australian Boat Ramp Finder has been redeveloped and relaunched on the Apple App store.

Australian Boat Ramp Finder has more than 1500 boat ramp locations around Australia, and users can search ‘Nearby’ and get the nearest locations of ramps by distance. You can also search ‘By Location’, and get the result from a specific area, which is particularly useful when you’re planning a trip or are browsing from the couch.

There’s the option to view a list of locations or you can map your results. If you select a location you will get the nearest address and a suggested route to that ramp location.

The developers are planning to add more info including photos, number of lanes, ramp surface (concrete, dirt etc) and the current state of repair.

The app is available for free on iPhone and iPad only, with an Android version in development. Be sure to seek local advice before using any ramp. www.facebook.com/AustralianBoat RampFinder

GARMIN ECHOMAP ULTRA

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The Garmin echoMAP Ultra series is a new line of keyed-assist 10” and 12” touchscreen chartplotters that bring professional performance to inland and nearshore anglers.

The Ultra series has built-in support for Garmin’s Ultra HD scanning sonar as well as the Panoptix LiveScope series, which delivers live scanning sonar images of structure, bait and fish below and around the boat in real time.

The Ultra 106sv and Ultra 126sv are available bundled with the new Ultra HD GT54UHD-TM all-in-one transducer that provides the highest ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonar images and CHIRP traditional sonar. The GT54UHDTM’s SideVü operates at 455kHz. Ultra chartplotters are also compatible with the full line of Panoptix all-seeing sonar transducers, so anglers can see real-time sonar imagery at video-like speed. The 105sv and 125sv are also available without a bundled transducer.

These new chartplotters are preloaded with Australia BlueChart g2 vision HD cartography, and are expected to be available in Q2 2019.

For the full list of features visit the Garmin website.

Price: SRP $2999-$3999 www.garmin.com

LIGHTARMOR NAV LIGHTS

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LightArmor fast action navigation lights are a new line of bi-colour and all-round lights.

LightArmor’s unique composite pole has superior flexibility, impact resistance and durability. It will bend, but won’t break – so anglers can manoeuvre through low-hanging obstacles with confidence.

Boaters will also appreciate the pole’s subtle, glare-free black matte finish.

These lights feature premium LED light engine technology that meets today’s global regulatory requirements, and which lasts for 50,000 hours. They are built with top-quality materials for lasting durability, appearance, and performance, and have a range of complementary plug-in bases.

The All-Round Lights feature an articulating head that adjusts 15° fore to 15° aft, and the Bi-Colour Lights feature tell-tale indicator lights to show when lights are on. One model is available with a task light option. Other features include an impact-resistant polycarbonate lens, 58

MAY 2019

PRODUCT GUIDE

water-resistant (IP67 certified); corrosion/ UV resistant; and a 10-year warranty.

Price: from RRP $88 www.bla.com.au

NEW MERCURY MAX5 PROPS

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Mercury Racing has expanded the MAX5 propeller family with a larger 15.25” diameter version as well as the all-new MAX5 ST. The MAX5 lab-finished prop delivers impressive results in both single and multipleengine applications, including Mercury Racing’s 400R outboard and 600 SCi sterndrive, with a reduction in propeller slip of up to 12%.

The 15.25” diameter models offer an additional 3-4% reduction in slip (compared to the 15” models) on selected outboard and sterndrive applications that benefit from elevated transom heights. Half-inch pitch offerings enable engines to be dialled-in to their max rpm operating range for enhanced throttle response, optimised cruise fuel efficiency and optimal top speed.

The new MAX5 ST prop is designed for the 4.6L V8 300R FourStroke outboard with Sport Master gearcase. The shortened exhaust barrel enhances the performance of single-engine and twin-engine boats. In testing, a 300R spinning a 31” pitch MAX5 ST prop powered a loaded Bullet 21 XRS bass boat to 157km/h with a mere 7% slip. www.mercuryracing.com

RAILBLAZA CAPTAIN’S HOOK

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The Railblaza Captain’s Hook is an expandable low-profile solution for hanging your rods, spear guns, ropes, hoses, power cords, paddles and more.

If you’ve ever walked into a hook sticking out from the side of a boat or wall, or tried to fit something onto a hook that’s not big enough, you’ll love this product. Simply screw it to the surface and tie a knot at each end of the cord. Simple!

Supplied with stainless steel screws, the 1m length of cord can be cut shorter if needed. When not in use it is low profile to avoid catching people or clothes.

The Captain’s Hook does not require a Railblaza for mounting, and it comes with the required screws.

The maximum weight is 10kg per hook, and you need to choose a robust surface for installation as some surfaces may not support maximum load. www.railblaza.com

MERCURY FOURSTROKE SALE

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Mercury is offering savings of up to $1500 on a selected range of 75-150hp FourStroke outboards.

Following the positive reaction to the summer 40-60hp FourStroke sale, Mercury has now decided to go further, offering higher horsepower and higher savings. That means customers who already own a boat, or are shopping for a new one, now have the opportunity to secure a special deal on a new Mercury 75-150hp FourStroke outboard. This offer is open to both recreational and SeaPro commercial customers.

To further assist boaties in securing this opportunity, Mercury Finance is offering deals at just 4.99%, with easy weekly repayments for customers upgrading an existing 40-15hp FourStroke engine.

To take advantage of either offer you have to act before 31 May, 2019. Terms and conditions apply. Visit the Mercury Marine website to learn more or to find your nearest Mercury dealer. www.mercurymarine.com.au

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Bar crossing – the gateway to gamefish PART 2 BRISBANE

Wayne Kampe wkff@aapt.net.au

In the previous issue I outlined some of the main factors associated with crossing our coastal bars.

I discussed how conditions on a bar can change on an hourly basis, and looked at

does it regularly, or you can even take a bar crossing course. If VMR or other marine authority know the characteristics of the bar, it’s a good idea to contact them and gain some background knowledge. Of course, you should always log on with marine rescue before you head out, let them know where you’re going and when you expect to return, and

HEADING OUT IN THE BOAT Understandably, both the boat and skipper need to be up to the task. All safety equipment should be up to date, the EPIRB should be accessible, and all gear should be stored where it can’t move if jarring occurs.

The engine has to be able to perform to optimum levels, and steering, bilge pumps,

When tackling a bar crossing, the boat might have to wear a wave. If it happens, the craft, skipper, and crew must be up to scratch.

A look at the bar at Caloundra. This is no place for the inexperienced skipper on an ebb tide. Note that waves are extending a fair way out to sea behind the boat. the importance of boaters remaining entirely flexible in planning a trip.

That last parameter is a vital one. Your planning should involve a really good estimate of conditions on the bar before you commit to crossing, and that means a real time assessment, not a forecast from a previous day or what a mate said about his offshore trip a few days ago. You have to remember that while conditions on the ocean side of the bar might be quite acceptable, getting across that bar may well be

then log off when you get back to port.

You should approach a bar with full visibility if you’re new to the game, and spend a bit of time working things out, unless it’s obvious that things are entirely calm and there can be no problems. In less than perfect conditions it’s a good plan to take note of where other boats are exiting the area, with emphasis paid to areas of darker (deeper) water, and places where fewer waves are breaking, as these will always offer calmest passage.

safety gear access should also be beyond any doubt or concern. If the cockpit is selfdraining, all scuppers must be clear. Anchors and warp should be placed securely within the anchor hatch and prevented from moving.

Passengers should trim the craft as level as possible, and secure themselves with at least a handhold prior to the crossing. Lifejackets are mandatory in boats less than 4.8m long, but even in a larger boat you should wear a lifejacket as a precaution if waves are going to be encountered.

bow lifted allows the rig to ride over an incoming wave rather than having it break over the bow. If it does break, however, the craft must be able to wear it.

If looks like a wave has developed above the anticipated height, you need to take it head on, or on a very slight angle to lessen impact. The goal is to slide down and across the far side rather than getting airborne and coming down with a wallop. Coastal bars often have a series of waves to traverse, and the idea is to just keep heading into the lowest part of each wave until the white water is safely behind. If you move smartly towards each wave, you

so easily identified as there can be waves seemingly breaking in every direction.

Again, there will be an area of lesser activity – the deeper water – and keeping just out of the froth should allow you to identify this area. A marked channel is good for a guideline, but it’s worth remembering that channels can sometimes move over time, so it’s worth approaching them with caution.

One you’ve found the right area and started the run back in, keep an eye on what’s going on behind the boat. You should always pick a smaller set of waves and maintain enough power to keep the boat right on

are pressure waves forming up, you should look for the least white water and head up to and over each of these waves until you’re through the melee.

BEST BOAT FOR THE JOB? Sorry, I can’t make a choice here! I’ve seen everything from 4m tinnies to 7m dedicated offshore craft out on the marlin grounds, and that’s when I’ve been out there in my 5.5m centre console! Every bar is different, and every day is different. I’m based in Brisbane, and I’ve found the Gold Coast Seaway to be a brilliant place on the right day, and so too is the outlet at Mooloolaba. However,

In the hands of a competent skipper, a smaller runabout might go offshore on the right day, especially if it’s high sided and has a full-height transom.

A decent half cabin will keep occupants dry when working a bar. In this image there might be a little too much speed for the conditions. dangerous. The fact is that crossing any bar can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced skippers in adverse conditions, and you have to respect it and take a lot of care at the helm.

First of all, it’s crucial to understand the topography of the bar as far as beacons or channels are concerned, and expected areas of shallow water and the like. There is immense value in undertaking a crossing with someone who 60

MAY 2019

It’s not unusual for larger waves to come in sets of three. Stopping to take stock of things, close to but not in the bar proper, will usually reveal this to be the case. A word of warning: if another boat heads out during a lull in sets you should carefully watch that craft’s track instead of setting out to follow it blindly, as the next set of larger waves may not be far off and things could change rapidly.

The engine needs to be warmed up and fully trimmed down to provide as much thrust as possible. Wave impact is par for the course, so the craft must be able to handle impact, and be able to shed water coming aboard as rapidly as possible. When the decision is made to head out, the skipper should maintain a speed that keeps the craft properly on course, but not so fast as to be hitting waves at undue speed. Keeping the

should reach them before they become too high, with the run-out becoming easier with each wave covered.

Under no circumstances should you try to turn around to outrun an approaching wave that looks nasty. Only if it’s obvious that you’ve taken the wrong course and there’s definitely room to about turn should you attempt it.

A wave catching the boat side-on will turn it over.

To lessen the chances of mistakes on a first outing, it’s a lot easier to cross a bar on a flooding tide with waves and current in harmony, than an ebb where pressure waves can form rapidly.

RETURNING HOME Coming back in through a bar is very different. For a start, the course might not be

the back of a selected swell, while at the same time able to keep ahead of waves breaking behind you. Avoid overrunning a wave, as this can lead to the boat broaching badly, or worse. You want to keep just enough power on to lift the bow for a re-entry to calmer water. At times it will be unavoidable to escape from a wave breaking ahead of the bow, but keeping the engine trimmed down and applying enough power to maintain easy steerage way should see the boat free of the froth fairly quickly.

Much the same as when heading offshore, it’s always going to be easier to return while the tide is still flooding. However, if the fishing was so good that the ebb has started, and there

between the Wide Bay bar to the north and the mighty Clarence River south at Yamba, there are some very nasty bits of work.

Cabin craft are very popular for offshore work, because they provide a lot of shelter in sloppy conditions. Smaller craft can still provide protection though, in the form of a canopy, windscreen, and a full-height transom coupled to decent depth of sides to keep water at bay.

Either way, the decision to cross comes down to the conditions. On the right day a bar can be a non-event, while on a bad one it can be a nightmare of mega proportions. It’s the skipper’s call to make the right choice of action.

Smallest Polycraft family member gets a facelift BRISBANE

Bob Thornton

Polycraft have some news that will interest sportfishers on a budget, and this is bound to generate a lot of excitement in the fishing and boating community!

The smallest member of the much-loved Polycraft family, the 300 Tuff Tender, has just been given a facelift, making it perfect as a small

to sell the Tuff Tender with these features – and that’s exactly what they’ve done.

“We added the extended casting deck up the front with storage hatch, rear seating and storage bins, we’ve also added some starboard finish on the decks, and everywhere else there’s a non-skid finish, as people like to stand up and fish in these boats,” Steve said.

“The steps on the back are now bigger, making it a

made of steel, some people were finding that the shackle would rub on the gel-coat overnight and cause some damage, so we’ve taken this into consideration and we’ve recessed this bolt, meaning it can’t come into contact with gel-coat surfaces anymore.”

Another great aspect of this boat the ease with which an owner can make his or her own modifications.

“You don’t ever make the perfect boat that suits every

area. The Tuffy is 50mm longer, and 50mm wider. The storage bins add some weight, and the lids to the bins are also double skinned.

operate it while making casts.

“For the rig like this, we’re looking at $1,999 for the hull, approximately $3,500 for the motor, and

figures have been supplied by the writer in good faith.

Performance of individual boat/motor/ trailer packages may differ

There’s plenty of room to stand up on the non-slip starboard finished decks to fish.

The new 300 Tuffy looks sporty when underway, and is the perfect outfit for an angler who wants to take the hassle out of owning a fishing boat.

Photo courtesy of Andrew Mckinstray.

sportfishing boat. The name has also received a facelift, with this updated version being affectionately named the 300 Tuffy.

Steve Cooper from Polycraft says that the update was a logical step, and one that has already been well-received.

“Originally this boat was designed as a tender, but over

lot more comfortable when stepping into the boat.”

Another small but fantastic feature of these boats is in the storage, with all the hinges being made entirely out of the same poly material as the hull, yet keeping everything perfectly dry.

Despite all these changes to make it more of a fishing boat, the team at Polycraft

angler, so with Polycraft boats, if you want to attach a bracket, add more decking, or drill any holes in the cockpit area, you’re only screwing into the inside of the boat, and not penetrating the outside of the hull at all,” Steve said.

“If you sell the boat to someone and they want to patch up some holes, we can send a repair kit and it

The boat tested on the day was fitted with a 15hp 4-stroke Yamaha and a Minn Kota electric motor, and had no trouble getting up and out of the hole, and even took on South East Queensland’s Pumicestone Passage very easily in 10-15 knots of breeze. The 80lb bow-mounted electric moved the hull effortlessly through the moored boats, and the deck provided ample space to

$2,000 for the Oceanic trailer, so this would only set you back about $7,500, and most people will then choose to add an electric,” he said.

If you’re after an inexpensive, trouble-free fishing boat to hit inshore water and lakes, make sure you check out Polycraft’s new 300 Tuffy. For more information you can visit www.polycraft.com.au.

• Quoted performance

due to variations in engine installations, propellers, hull configurations, options, hull loading and trailer specifications.

SPECIFICATIONS Length.............3070mm Beam...............560mm Height…..........550mm Weight.............108kg Floatation........Basic Max hp.............15hp

Above and Below: Storage is a major factor of the Tuffy, and being of a waterproof design with absolutely no metal, the hatches won’t give any maintenance troubles at all!

All Polycraft boats come with superior stability, and the 300 Tuffy is no exception! time it started to develop a following as a fishing boat,” he said.

With many anglers choosing to add their own modifications, usually hatches in the rear and extended deck on the front, it got to the point where Polycraft felt the need

haven’t left the Tuffy’s roots as a tender for big boats.

“This boat will still make a great tender for a Riviera, and we noticed with the last version it had an exposed sprit at the front, and on that sprit was a bow shackle,” Steve said. “Being

can easily be fixed – you wouldn’t even know it there was a hole there!”

Overall, the new hull weight is heavier than the old version, with the old Tuff Tender coming in at 87kg, and the new Tuffy at 105kg, but the reason for that is surface MAY 2019

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Bassco Tornado CC with 115hp Mercury Pro XS - SC

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Main: The Bassco Tornado is a locally designed and built centreconsole that is a rare combination – it holds a stack of tackle efficiently and you can seriously tackle oceanic species.

Above: Wayne Mauger is equally at home on an estuary of Port Phillip Bay in his Tornado. You’ll notice that Wayne has accessorised his Tornado to the hilt. boats seemingly well built, but they will hold the gear of the biggest tackle junkie for a social or tournament angler.

Bassco customer Wayne Mauger brought his Tornado along to the test day. He came out of an American built Triton bass boat into the Bassco and couldn’t be happier.

“This boat does

SPECIFICATIONS Length........................................................5.0m Beam........................................................2.07m Transom.Deadrise ...................................... 20° Capacity ............................................ 4 persons Max.hp ..................................................... 115hp (special build 150hp available) Hull.Weight .............................................. 690kg 62

MAY 2019

everything that my bass boat used to do, but I can still get out and fish offshore,” Wayne said.

“I like to sit down when I drive a centre console – which is unusual – but to me, this handles like a 7m boat,” he continued.

Unfortunately, the test day was glamour , with not a ripple on the water, so we couldn’t independently test the tide in nasty conditions, but we did see how much tackle this thing gobbles up.

With eight rods under the deck and another six around the console, the Tornado boasts 14-rod storage along with 20 tackle trays that are actually accessible.

Whether you are needing

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It’s hard not to get enthusiastic when talking to Michael Boag from Bassco boats. The Gippsland Lakes boat builder has a solid history in building big, dieselpowered fibreglass boats and only recently turned his hand to making smaller boats designed for fishing.

Cleverly, though, when doing his R&D, Michael enlisted the help of anglers.

“I know it’s a strange concept – actually talking to the guys who will use the boat,” he quipped sarcastically during the video interview (scan the QR code hereby for details), “but for me, layout and the ability for a boat to securely hold all of your gear and to keep it dry is a benchmark that I judge a fishing boat by.”

After all, locally built craft have to compete with imported fishing boats that have had decades to evolve to a point where they are a pleasure to use.

I’m happy to report that not only are the Bassco

CO

s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

a livewell or a kill box, there’s a great, plumbed box under the console seat that serves both purposes.

Powered by a 115hp Pro XS Mercury, this sure is a fun boat to drive. The 2.1L 4-stroke powerplant delivered great economy at 4,000rpm cruising speed (2.4km/L at 46km/h) but stretched out to a mid-70km/h maximum at 6,200rpm.

There’s also a cavernous fuel tank underfloor, boasting 140L capacity and a theoretical range of around 350km, and that’s plenty for a weekend away!

With a package price of $50,999 for the boat/motor and trailer, it’s up to you after that to accessorise with electronics and electric motors of your choosing.

Wayne certainly hasn’t skimped in any of these

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Steve Morgan

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AN THE

FMG

PERFORMANCE RPM...... Speed.(km/h) Idle .......................... 4 1000 ......................... 8 2000....................... 12 3000....................... 29 4000....................... 46 5000....................... 61 6000....................... 74 6200 ....................... 76 areas, with top of the line Humminbird and MinnKota gear finishing his rig exactly as he likes it.

For more information, give Michael Boag a call on 0417 545 593 or visit their Facebook page (Bassco Boats). They don’t have a website yet, so don’t look for them there. But if you’re considering a local alternative to an imported fishing boat, you do need to throw a Bassco into the mix!

The Tornado jumps onto the plane easily with the 115 Pro XS Mercury.

Wayne likes driving his centre console while sitting down.

Top: It’s impractical to flush mount a sounder into the console, yet the Humminbird fills the console top nicely.

Above: Step up to the front deck for your lure casting. From the console forwards, it looks and fishes like a bass boat (but without any carpet).

There’s plenty of room to move up front – and the grab rail is a handy place to grab while you are doing so.

I dare any angler to be unimpressed by the cavernous central rod and tackle storage.

This one holds 8 rods and 14 tackle trays, while being dry and secure.

Moderate transom deadrise offers a balance between wave cutting ability and shallow water draft.

Top: Plenty of anglers nowadays appreciate a carpet-free interior. You do your cleaning with a brush and hose rather than a wet-and-dry vacuum cleaner.

Left: The transom is clean with access points contained behind access hatches Right: You can store more rods in the side pockets if 8 isn’t enough in the central locker. Too many rods isn’t enough.

Top: A single-axled trailer with mechanical override brakes is all that’s needed and this rig is towable behind most family cars.

Left: Single-axled trailers allow for easier manoeuvrability in confined spaces – like a standard garage.

Right: Mercury’s 2.1L 115 Pro XS 4-stroke is a class-leading power plant that adds excitement to any performance craft. It matches the red hull nicely, just quietly. It delivered maximum economy of 2.4km/L, giving a theoretical range of around 350km with the 140L fuel tank.

You know that the Tornado will turn heads at the ramp and on the water. The boat drives on and off the trailer with ease.

MAY 2019

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SAVE UP TO $1,500 ON 75-150HP FOURSTROKE

The Mercury Sale is now on, with savings across selected models in the 75-150hp FourStroke range.

Be quick to enjoy the performance, reliability and efficiency of Mercury’s advanced FourStroke technology.

For Participating Dealers go to mercurymarine.com.au

OFFER ENDS MAY 31ST, 2019 Terms and Conditions apply.